bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of perioperative, neoadjuvant or adjuvant immunotherapy alone or in combination chemotherapy in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Authors: Liu Hongbing , Meng Yunchang
Published: June 2024

8025

Background: Adjuvant (AD), neoadjuvant(NE), or perioperative(PE) immunotherapy in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (eNSCLC) has been validated in multiple clinical trials in recent years. However, the comparations of efficacy and safety among three treatment modalities remain unclear. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) plus chemotherapy (CT) for eNSCLC. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) or advantage ratios (ORs) for binary endpoints with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Network meta-analysis was performed using a Bayesian framework to indirectly compare the three treatment modalities. Results: A total of 11 RCTs (2 NE, 6 PE, and 3 AD) including 6951 NSCLC patients were included. Among the three treatment modalities, indirect comparisons revealed that efficacy differed between PE and AD immunotherapy was only observed in the EFS/DFS (HR=0.68, 95%CI: 0.49-0.89). Compared with the control group, NE/PE immunotherapies significantly improved pathologic complete response (pCR) (OR=7.56, 95%CI: 5.24-10.92), major pathologic response(MPR) (OR=5.46, 95%CI: 3.97-7.51), EFS(HR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.50-0.67), and AD immunotherapy significantly improved DFS (HR=0.83, 95% CI: 0.73-0.94). No significant OS difference was observed in NE and AD setting (HR=0.62, 95% CI: 0.36-1.05; HR=0.90, 95% CI: 0.76-1.06, respectively), and only PE immunotherapy showed OS benefits(HR=0.67, 95%CI: 0.54-0.84). In addition, EFS was significantly improved in the PE treatment subgroup regardless of stage, pathologic response, histology, PD-L1 expression, and gender (Table), but no significant benefit in the EGFRm NSCLC subgroup(HR=0.54, 95% CI: 0.21-1.43). AD (OR 1.52, 95% CI: 1.01-2.30) and PE (OR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.08-1.54) immunotherapies were significantly associated with higher grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) compared with controls. Rash was the most common grade ≥3 irAEs. Conclusions: PE immunotherapy seems to be more effective than NE and AD immunotherapy in three treatment modes. NE and PE immunotherapy significantly improved pCR, MPR, EFS, and AD immunotherapy significantly improved DFS in eNSCLC patients in comparison with the control group, but only PE immunotherapy significantly improved OS. [Table: see text]
Implications of EGFR expression in MAPK dependency and adaptive immunity status of EGFR-mutated lung adenocarcinoma.
Authors: Torasawa Masahiro , Yoshida Tatsuya , Shiraishi Kouya , Yagishita Shigehiro , Uehara Yuji , Miyakoshi Jun , Higashiyama Ryoko Inaba , Mochizuki Akifumi , Matsumoto Yuji , Shinno Yuki , Okuma Yusuke , Goto Yasushi , Horinouchi Hidehito , Hamamoto Ryuji , Yamamoto Noboru , Watanabe Shun-ichi , Yatabe Yasushi , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Kohno Takashi , Ohe Yuichiro
Published: June 2024

8028

Background: EGFR expression (EGFR-exp) varies among patients (pts) with EGFR-mutated (m EGFR) NSCLC. It remains unknown how EGFR-exp status influences tumor and clinical characteristics in m EGFR NSCLC. Methods: Whole-exome and RNA sequencing were performed of pts with resectable early-stage (ES) and advanced-stage (AS) lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and EGFRmutations. EGFR-exp was classified into low or high groups based on median transcripts per million. We retrospectively examined the association between EGFR-exp, mutation status, copy number variations, EGFR clonality, and clinical outcomes. Additionally, we assessed EGFR signaling by evaluating the MAPK activation score, derived from the transcript levels of 10 MAPK target genes. Gene set enrichment analysis was used to compare transcriptional profiles, and immune cell (IC) infiltration was estimated through RNA deconvolution. Results: This study involved 450 and 45 pts in the ES and AS cohorts, respectively. In the AS cohort, all pts received osimertinib (Osi) as first-line treatment. The EGFR-exp low group exhibited a lower incidence of TP53 co-mutation and EGFR amplification, more subclonal EGFRmutations, and lower MAPK activation scores than the EGFR-exp high group (Table). Additionally, the EGFR-exp low group had significantly up-regulated adaptive immune responses pathway (q < 0.0001) and increased IC infiltration in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in both cohorts. The EGFR-exp low group in the ES cohort exhibited significantly longer relapse-free survival than the EGFR-exp high group (median, 105.9 vs. 37.1 months; hazard ratio, 0.6; p < 0.0001), and low EGFR-exp was a significant favorable factor for postoperative relapse (odds ratio [OR], 0.6; p = 0.04) in multivariate analysis. In the AS cohort, the EGFR-exp low group had a higher proportion of Osi non-responders than the EGFR-exp high group (34.8% vs 4.5%, respectively; p = 0.02), and low EGFR-exp was a significant risk factor for primary Osi resistance (OR, 29.1; p = 0.04) on multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Pts with low EGFR-exp in m EGFR LUAD demonstrated less activation of MAPK signaling, along with enhanced adaptive immunity and increased IC infiltration in the TME. These pts are less likely to experience postoperative relapse; however, they showed suboptimal benefit with Osi in AS setting. The EGFR-exp status can be valuable in decision making for adjuvant Osi and perioperative immunotherapy in pts with resectable m EGFR LUAD. [Table: see text]
Pre- and post-operative lung cancer recurrence prediction following curative surgery: A retrospective study using European radiomics and clinical data.
Authors: Valter Ann , Kordemets Tanel , Gasimova Aydan , Waterfield Price Noah , Freitag Lutz , Vachani Anil , Carbone David Paul , Oselin Kersti
Published: June 2024

8066

Background: Accurately estimating the risk of lung cancer recurrence is vital for making informed treatment choices, both before surgery, such as the prescription of neo-adjuvant/peri-operative therapies and the extent of lung resection, and after surgery, such as the prescription of adjuvant therapies and planning follow-up strategies. In this study, we build on previous work demonstrating the predictive power of pre-operative patient demographic and imaging features and develop a machine-learning model using a combination of clinical and tumour radiomic features in the pre- and post-operative setting. Methods: We collected a dataset of 323 clinical stage I-IIIA lung cancer patients who underwent surgical treatment for lung cancer, of which 94 had lung cancer recurrence. This includes retrospectively collected CT images and associated patient demographic and diagnostic data from North Estonia Medical Centre (NEMC). The models were trained to predict the likelihood of recurrence on a diverse set of features, including radiomic features extracted from CT images and relevant clinical variables. Post-operative clinical factors such as pathological staging and tumor histology were only included in the post-operative model. An 8-fold cross-validation strategy was used, where, in each fold, 6 (of the 8 equally sized) subsets were used for training, one for model tuning, and one for validation. As a baseline, we compare the pre- and post-operative models to clinical and pathological staging, respectively. Performance was evaluated using the Area-Under-the-ROC-Curve (AUC) and sensitivity (at a fixed specificity of 90%). Results: Lung cancer recurrence classification results are tabulated below for the pre-operative models. We find that the pre-operative model (AUC=74.1%, Sens=35.29%) performs significantly better than clinical staging alone (AUC=65.4%, Sens=14.71%, p=0.025), and that the post-operative model (AUC=74.4%, Sens=26.47%) performs significantly better than pathological staging alone (AUC=67.3, Sens=22.4%, p=0.045). Top predictive features for both the pre-operative and post-operative models included clinical staging, tumor shape and textural radiomics, tumor size and tumor location. The post-operative model additionally included pathological staging and tumor histology. Conclusions: Based on this retrospective analysis, we find that the model outperforms staging prediction of lung cancer recurrence in pre- and post-operative settings. With further development, these algorithms could prove a valuable tool to aid the management of lung cancer patients. [Table: see text]
Phase Ib clinical study of first-line treatment with gefitinib in combination with bevacizumab and chemotherapy in advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutation.
Authors: Xiong Yanjuan , Ren Xiubao , Liu Liang
Published: June 2024

8554

Background: The safety and efficacy of combination of gefitinib with chemotherapy and bevacizumab in treatment patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are currently unknown. This phase Ib clinical trial was designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of a combination therapy consisting of gefitinib, bevacizumab, pemetrexed, and carboplatin in patients with advanced non-squamous non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR mutations. Methods: Eligible patients with EGFR-mutated advanced non-squamous NSCLC were recruited and received gefitinib combination with bevacizumab plus pemetrexed and carboplatin treatment. The primary endpoints were safety and progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), duration of response (DOR), and overall survival (OS). Results: From June 2019 to June 2021, 20 patients were enrolled in this trial. The median follow-up was 33.8 months (95% CI, 31.0-36.6). Grade ≥3 adverse events was 65%, including neutropenia (30%), thrombocytopenia (20%), nausea (20%), skin rash (20%), bleeding (10%), and increased ALT (10%). There was no death related to toxicity occurred. The median PFS was 28 months (95% CI, 20.4-35.6). the ORR was 95% (95% CI, 75.1%-99.9%), the DCR was 100% (95% CI, 83.2%-100%), and the median DOR was 26.4 months (95% CI, 18.9-33.9). The median OS has not been reached. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that the four-drug combination regimen, led by gefitinib, is well-tolerated and effective for patients with EGFR-mutated advanced non-squamous NSCLC.
Survival outcome of metastatic pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma in immunotherapy era: An NCDB analysis.
Authors: Liu Bolun , Jiang Changchuan , Attwood Kristopher , Perimbeti Stuthi , Chen Hongbin , Deng Lei
Published: June 2024

8555

Background: Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is a rare subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with historically poor outcome. Excellent response of metastatic PSC to immunotherapy was previously reported, but its outcome compared with other NSCLCs is unknown in the immunotherapy era. Methods: NCDB was queried for stage IV NSCLC diagnosed from 2016 to 2020. Patients who were treated with chemotherapy only or immunotherapy only in the first course of treatment were included. Log-rank was used for survival analysis and adjusted by cox regression for age, gender, race, academic/integrated center, insurance, and comorbidity. Results: A total of 37,617 patients were identified, including 201 PSCs and 37,416 other NSCLCs. Pleomorphic (54%) was the most common PSC subtype. There was significant interaction between the survival effect of treatment and histology (interaction p = 0.024). When treated with immunotherapy alone, no significant difference was found between PSC and other NSCLCs (median survival 11.4 vs 12.4 months, logrank p = 0.56, HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.81 – 1.30). However, when treated with chemotherapy alone, PSC remained significantly associated with worse survival (median survival 4.5 vs. 8.5 months, logrank p <0.001, HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.54 – 0.83). Among PSC subtypes, spindle/giant cell PSCs were more likely to benefit from immunotherapy alone than pleomorphic PSCs (interaction p = 0.005), when compared with chemotherapy (Spindle/giant cell subtype: HR 0.24, 95% CI 0.14 – 0.42; Pleomorphic subtype: HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.37 – 0.99). Conclusions: Compared with other NSCLCs, PSC may not be associated with worse survival when treated with immunotherapy alone as it was when treated with chemotherapy. Distinct PSC subtypes may respond differently to immunotherapy and warrants further research. [Table: see text]
Enfortumab vedotin (EV) in non-squamous and squamous non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cohorts of EV-202.
Authors: Muro Kei , Feinstein Trevor , Baranda Joaquina Celebre , Bonta Ioana , Kitazono Satoru , Gersten Todd A. , Gandhi Leena , Kudo Toshihiro , Kaplan Jason , Gorla Seema Rao , Liu Shubin , Wozniak Michele , Lee Anthony , Patil Tejas
Published: June 2024

8585

Background: EV, a Nectin-4–directed antibody–drug conjugate, is approved for use in urothelial cancer. Nectin-4 is expressed in several solid tumors, including NSCLC. EV monotherapy was evaluated in non-squamous and squamous NSCLC cohorts in EV-202 (NCT04225117). Methods: This open-label, multicohort, phase 2 trial enrolled adults with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors and ECOG PS 0–1. For NSCLC cohorts, patients (pts) had NSCLC not amenable to curative-intent treatment (tx), 1 platinum-based and ≤2 lines of cytotoxic tx for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC, and prior PD-1/L1 inhibitor unless contraindicated. Nectin-4 expression was not required for inclusion but was assessed retrospectively. Pts received EV 1.25 mg/kg intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-d cycle until discontinuation. Interim analysis (IA) was conducted for each cohort when 20 pts were response-evaluable. If the cohort-specific minimum number of responders (non-squamous: 3; squamous: 2) was not met, enrollment could be closed. Primary endpoint was confirmed objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints were duration of response (DOR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety/tolerability. Antitumor activity was investigator-assessed per RECIST v1.1. Results: The non-squamous cohort met the minimum number of responders at IA and continued enrollment. Of 43 pts in this cohort as of Feb 21, 2022, median age was 67 y (range, 36–82), 51% were male, and 47% had ≥3 prior lines of systemic tx. Histology at diagnosis was adenocarcinoma for 38 (88%) pts. Efficacy and overall tx-related adverse event (TRAE) data are in the table. Common TRAEs in the non-squamous cohort were maculopapular rash and peripheral sensory neuropathy (both n=16, 37%), pruritus (n=15, 35%), and alopecia (n=14, 33%). Grade ≥3 TRAEs in >1 pt were maculopapular rash (n=3, 7%) and decreased neutrophil count (n=2, 5%). Selected TRAEs of special interest were skin reactions (n=24, 56%), peripheral neuropathy (n=16, 37%), and hyperglycemia (n=3, 7%). Only 1 of 20 pts in the squamous cohort had achieved a response at IA; thus, enrollment closed. The table shows data from the primary analysis (Jul 15, 2022; N=23). Conclusions: EV showed antitumor activity in heavily pretreated non-squamous NSCLC and manageable safety consistent with the known safety profile. The IA efficacy threshold was not met in squamous NSCLC. Clinical trial information: NCT04225117 . [Table: see text]
Value of Vitamin D Metabolite Ratios in 3 Patients as Diagnostic Criteria to Assess Vitamin D Status
Authors: Shahidzadeh Yazdi Zhinous , Streeten Elizabeth A , Whitlatch Hilary B , Bargal Salma A , Beitelshees Amber L , Taylor Simeon I
Published: June 2024

Although clinical guidelines recommend measuring total plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) to assess vitamin D (VitD) status, this index does not account for 3-fold inter-individual variation in VitD binding protein (VDBP) level. We present 3 individuals with total plasma 25(OH)D levels of 10.8 to 12.3 ng/mL (27-30.7 nmol/L). Because Endocrine Society guidelines define VitD deficiency as 25(OH)D ≤ 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L), all 3 would be judged to be VitD deficient. VitD3 supplementation increased 25(OH)D to the range of 31.7 to 33.8 ng/mL (79.1-84.4 nmol/L). Patient #1 exhibited secondary hyperparathyroidism; VitD3 supplementation decreased parathyroid hormone (PTH) by 34% without a clinically significant change in PTH levels in the other 2 individuals. Thus, 25(OH)D level did not distinguish between the 1 patient who had secondary hyperparathyroidism and the 2 who did not. We therefore inquired whether VitD metabolite ratios (which are VDBP-independent) might distinguish among these 3 individuals. Of all the assessed ratios, the 1,25(OH)2D/24,25(OH)2D ratio was the most informative, which had a value of 102 pg/ng in the individual with secondary hyperparathyroidism but lower values (41 and 20 pg/ng) in the other 2 individuals. These cases illustrate the value of the 1,25(OH)2D/24,25(OH)2D ratio to provide clinically relevant information about VitD status.
Inferior Laryngeal Nerve Paraganglioma With Norepinephrine Hypersecretion Diagnosed Shortly After Pregnancy
Authors: Kishlyansky David , Ramesh Rithvika , Cook Olivia , Luthra Meera
Published: June 2024

The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma (PGL) during pregnancy is extremely rare, with 2 large case series suggesting that the prevalence is between 0.0002% and 0.007%. Here, we present a case of a 38-year-old woman who presented during pregnancy with clinical features suggestive of preeclampsia and was found to have a norepinephrine-secreting inferior laryngeal nerve PGL, which was diagnosed after pregnancy. She underwent uncomplicated surgical resection and genetic testing revealed a succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) pathogenic variant. In conclusion, PGLs diagnosed during pregnancy and hypersecreting head and neck PGLs are both rare clinical entities. Hyperfunctioning PGLs may mimic pregnancy-induced hypertension or preeclampsia. Metanephrine testing should be considered in patients with atypical features and can be reliably assessed using nonpregnant reference ranges. Overall, maternal and fetal mortality has improved considerably with early diagnosis and treatment.
Academic Productivity of Applicant and Program as Predictors of a Future Academic Career in Neurosurgery
Authors: Stuebe Caren M. , Kann Michael R. , Harper Cierra N. , Prakash Kavita J. , Cantu Luke I. , Mbilinyi Robert H. , Nowacki Amy S. , Benzil Deborah L.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Academic productivity is viewed as a critical objective factor for a neurosurgery residency applicant. There has been a consistent rise in academic productivity over the last decade, but a lack of consistent data on the utility of this in helping neurosurgery residency programs identify which applicants will enter academic neurosurgery. This cross-sectional study evaluates the predictiveness of academic productivity before and during residency on career choice, both independent and dependent of training environment.

METHODS:

The 116 accredited neurosurgery residency programs were split into 4 quartile groups based on their 2022 Doximity rankings. Six neurosurgery residency programs were randomly selected from each quartile. Publicly available information including number and type (before or during residency) of publication and type of employment (academic vs nonacademic) was collected on neurosurgeons who matriculated into residency in the year 2000 or later. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the associations among neurosurgeon and program characteristics, and an academic career.

RESULTS:

A total of 557 neurosurgeons were identified. Group 1 (n = 194) had the highest median publications during residency total (12) and first author (5), as well as the highest percentage of neurosurgeons who attended a top 20 medical school (38.7%), hold a higher educational degree (20.6%), and pursued an academic career (72.2%). Neither attending a top 20 medical school, holding a higher educational degree, nor publications were significant multivariable predictors of an academic career. Being in group 1 was the only significant predictor of entering an academic career across analyses.

CONCLUSION:

Only residency group ranking, not academic productivity, predicted a future academic career. For residency programs evaluating applicants as future academic neurosurgeons, this suggests that program environment is more predictive than traditionally valued characteristics such as research productivity. Additional work is needed to elucidate characteristics or practices by which future academic neurosurgeons can be identified.
SoxB1 transcription factors are essential for initiating and maintaining neural plate border gene expression
Authors: Schock Elizabeth N. , York Joshua R. , Li Austin P. , Tu Ashlyn Y. , LaBonne Carole
Published: June 2024

SoxB1 transcription factors (Sox2/3) are well known for their role in early neural fate specification in the embryo, but little is known about functional roles for SoxB1 factors in non-neural ectodermal cell types, such as the neural plate border (NPB). Using Xenopus laevis, we set out to determine whether SoxB1 transcription factors have a regulatory function in NPB formation. Here, we show that SoxB1 factors are necessary for NPB formation, and that prolonged SoxB1 factor activity blocks the transition from a NPB to a neural crest state. Using ChIP-seq, we demonstrate that Sox3 is enriched upstream of NPB genes in early NPB cells and in blastula stem cells. Depletion of SoxB1 factors in blastula stem cells results in downregulation of NPB genes. Finally, we identify Pou5f3 factors as potential Sox3 partners in regulating the formation of the NPB and show that their combined activity is needed for normal NPB gene expression. Together, these data identify a role for SoxB1 factors in the establishment and maintenance of the NPB, in part through partnership with Pou5f3 factors.
Measuring Employer-to-Employer Reallocation
Authors: Fujita Shigeru , Moscarini Giuseppe , Postel-Vinay Fabien
Published: June 2024

We revisit measurement of employer-to-employer (EE) transitions in the monthly Current Population Survey. The incidence of missing answers to the question on change of employer sharply increases starting with the introduction of a new software instrument to conduct interviews in January 2007 and of the Respondent Identification Policy in 2008–2009. We document nonrandom nonresponse selection by observable and unobservable worker characteristics that correlate with EE mobility. We propose a selection model and a procedure to impute missing answers. Our imputed EE aggregate series no longer trends down after 2000 and restores a close congruence with the business cycle after 2007. (JEL C83, E24, E32, J62)
Understanding Persistent ZLB: Theory and Assessment
Authors: Cuba-Borda Pablo , Singh Sanjay R.
Published: June 2024

We develop a theoretical framework that rationalizes two hypotheses of long-lasting low-interest rate episodes: deflationary-expectations-traps and secular stagnation in a unified setting. These hypotheses differ in the sign of the theoretical correlation between inflation and output growth that they imply. Using the data from Japan over 1998:I–2019:IV, we find that the data favor the expectations-trap hypothesis. The superior model fit of the expectations trap relies on its ability to generate the observed negative correlation between inflation and output growth. (JEL E12, E31, E32, E43, E52)
First record of Microbotryum marginale (Microbotryaceae) on Bistorta plumosa
Authors:   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Denchev Teodor T. , Denchev Cvetomir M. ,   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
Published: June 2024

Microbotryum marginale is reported for the first time on Bistorta plumosa, based on a collection from the Yukon coast, Canadian Arctic, at 68°55'N. This locality is a new northern limit for M. marginale in North America.
Sharia Property Business Development Strategy (Case Study: Tasnim Property)
Authors:   School of Business, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Bogor, Tambunan Sofyan Ahmadi , Fahmi Idqan , Hartono Sri ,   Magister Management, Mercu Buana University, Jakarta
Published: June 2024

Abstract. The Sharia property industry in Indonesia has increased exponentially in recent years. Many Association of Sharia Property Developers (ADPS) members have recorded significant home sales. However, it is different with Tasnim Property, which has experienced a decline in home sales. This research aims to analyze consumer behaviour in making home purchase decisions, analyze internal factors, analyze micro and macro external factors, formulate alternative strategies and formulate strategic priorities that can be applied to Tasnim Property's business development strategy. This research was conducted from November 2022 to September 2023 with quantitative and qualitative approaches. In consumer behaviour analysis, the sampling technique used voluntary sampling through an online survey involving 75 respondents, and data analysis used SEM-PLS to determine the direct effect of product, price, place and promotion variables on home purchase decisions. In the strategic management analysis, the sampling technique used purposive sampling involving 6 respondents. Data analysis used the IFE matrix, Porter's Five Forces, PESTLE, EFE matrix, IE matrix, SWOT and QSPM matrix. The results showed that the product and promotion variables significantly affected home purchasing decisions. In contrast, the price and place variables did not significantly affect home purchasing decisions. There are 8 alternative strategies that have been formulated, namely: (1) increasing cooperation with a large number of Sharia Property Agency partners, (2) a home sales strategy with a unit booking system through Virtual Reality technology, (3) increasing marketing activities through B2G, B2B and B2C cooperation offers, (4) recruiting professional and experienced CEOs in the property sector, (5) introducing Tasnim products by enlarging marketing areas, (6) implementing simplified licensing procedures through the OSS (Online Single Submission) application, related agencies in local governments and online PBG, (7) a strategy to buy materials directly from factories/distributors, and (8) establishing a research & development division. The priority strategy that can be recommended for Tasnim Property is to increase cooperation with many Sharia Property Agency partners. This strategy is essential for the company to increase the market share of Sharia property with more massive and vigorous marketing efforts. Keywords: Business development strategy, sharia property, strategy formulation, consumer behaviour, purchase decision
Mathematical modeling and implementation of information and calculation tasks «MASKING»
Authors: Dmitriev Evgeniy , Tarakanov Andrei , Shipilova Elena
Published: June 2024

Analysis of the masking process indicates the production of a large number of calculations that ensure the validity of relevant decisions. Nevertheless, the clear formulations of information and calculation tasks and methods for the distribution of forces and means involved in the implementation of the masking process are poorly developed, and for some practical cases are absent. The purpose of the article is to develop a set of mathematical models of information and calculation problems and methods for solving them to increase the effectiveness of masking military formations. Among the tasks of masking are the following: an operational assessment of the information capabilities of enemy reconnaissance systems (means) and the amount of information required by its governing bodies to make decisions regarding valid and false intentions; determination of the number of forces and means necessary and sufficient for the execution of masking measures, as well as the operational tactical significance of masking measures; formation and assessment of the quality of the optimal option for the distribution of forces and means; evaluation of masking efficiency and possible degree of achievement of its goal (enemy deception). The developed set of information and calculation tasks for masking is designed to increase the effectiveness of masking of military formations due to the optimal distribution of the forces and means involved. The proposed methodology for assessing the effectiveness of masking military formations, based on the provisions of probability theories and information, makes it possible to comprehensively assess the qualitative characteristics of the ongoing operational masking activities.
Independentyzm kataloński w dobie pandemii COVID-19
Authors: Husar-Poliszuk Wioletta
Published: June 2024

Artykuł ma na celu zdiagnozowanie kondycji independentyzmu katalońskiego w okresie trwania pandemii COVID-19. Eksplikacja koncentruje się na trzech obszarach, tj. działaniach zaradczych władz centralnych i regionalnych w odniesieniu do rozprzestrzeniania się pandemii w Katalonii; interakcjach między katalońską a hiszpańską sceną polityczną w powyższym zakresie; spójności katalońskiego bloku independentystycznego w dobie kryzysu zdrowotnego. Z uwagi na rozpiętość obszaru badawczego analiza obejmuje przede wszystkim aktorów politycznych.
Factors Related to Health-Related Quality of Life across the Life Cycle in One-Person Households among Korean Adults
Authors: Chae Myung-Ock
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This study is to identify factors related to health-related quality of life in one-person households across the life cycle by analyzing data from the 2021 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Methods: The subjects of one-person households were divided into 195 young adults, 273 middle-aged people, and 490 elderly people according to life cycle. Data were analyzed by complex sample cross tabulation, complex sample t-test, complex sample ANOVA, and complex sample multiple regression analysis using IBM SPSS 26.0. Results: In young adults, subjective health status, daily activity limitation, and stress level explained 41% of health-related quality of life, and in middle age, income level, education level, occupation, marital status, subjective health status, stress level, and depression had a 60% explanatory power. In old age, education level, subjective health status, daily activity limitation, stress level, and depression explained 53% of health-related quality of life. Conclusion: In order to effectively improve the health-related quality of life of one-person households, it is necessary to establish a customized program considering the influencing factors across the life cycle and systematically manage it according to the flow of the life cycle.
O Programa Academia da Saúde e a Educação Física: uma revisão sistemática no período de 2011 a 2022
Authors: Gonçalves Débora de Faria , Neves Ricardo Lira de Rezende
Published: June 2024

Identificar e analisar os temas presentes em artigos que relacionam, de alguma maneira, a Educação Física e o Programa Academia da Saúde é o objetivo deste manuscrito. Os dados foram coletados nos bancos de dados LILACS, SciELO, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Portal dos Periódicos Eletrônicos e em 12 periódicos da Educação Física. Foram selecionados e analisados os conteúdos de 54 artigos. Os resultados mostraram que houve maior número de publicações em 2020, com destaque para pesquisas realizadas no estado de Minas Gerais. O maior número de publicações consta na Revista Brasileira de Atividade Física & Saúde. Detecta-se o interesse crescente por estudos com objetos ampliados que considerem a complexidade das condições de saúde dos grupos e das comunidades atendidas no programa, especialmente a partir das aproximações com a Saúde Coletiva.
Cultural Spawning: Founders Bringing Organizational Cultures to Their Startup
Authors: Ahn Yeonsin , Greve Henrich R.
Published: June 2024

In searching for the sources of heterogeneity in organizational cultures, one possibility is that new ventures show a cultural spawning of incorporating elements from the culture of the organization that the founder left (the parent) when starting the new venture. Such a genealogical effect would explain why some organizational cultures remain different, despite the opportunities to learn cultural elements from other organizations. This study investigates whether and under what circumstances such cultural spawning occurs. We argue that cultural spawning occurs, but with varying strength, depending on the founder and the culture of the parent organization. Applying the cultural toolkit perspective, we predict that it is stronger when founders have a longer tenure in the parent organization, the parent culture is more internally coherent, and the parent culture is more atypical, compared with other organizations. These ideas were tested with a sample of U.S. technology startups in Crunchbase. Natural language processing of Glassdoor employee reviews was used to identify the cultural elements of the technology companies. The analysis demonstrates that cultural spawning occurs and reveals previously unexplored contingencies of cultural transmission through congruency and atypicality. It contributes to research on new venture formation and organizational culture.

Funding: Financial support from the Rudolf and Valeria Maag Endowment is gratefully acknowledged.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2023.17771 .
Polymyalgia rheumatica following respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination
Authors: El Labban Mohamad , Oluic Stevan , Guleid Hussein , Hassan Mohamed , Diab Rawan , Rida Mohamad Ali
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes stiffness and pain in the proximal joints, including the shoulders, hips and neck. The exact cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is yet to be fully understood, but research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to it. Studies have previously linked the onset and relapse of polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms to the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. The Food and Drug Administration approved the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, which is a recombinant protein vaccine for adults over 60, in May 2023. No previous reports of polymyalgia rheumatica onset or relapse have been linked to the RSV vaccine. The human proteome shares some peptides with the RSV F antigen, suggesting a high risk of cross-reactivity when using that antigen in vaccination formulations. Case description: A 72-year-old man experienced a new onset of bilateral shoulder pain and stiffness three days after receiving the Abrysvo® RSV vaccine. The symptoms lasted more than an hour (up until noon) and interfered with his activities of daily living. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein were elevated. The patient’s symptoms and inflammatory marker levels significantly improved with prednisone therapy. Conclusion: In patients with typical PMR symptoms, it is important for clinicians to carefully review immunisation history to rule out any potentially related adverse effects.
Elevated procalcitonin levels can occur in bacterial infections and also in medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kaya Fatih , Alsafdi Tarek
Published: June 2024

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare and challenging type of thyroid cancer originating from parafollicular cells (C cells) that produce calcitonin. Diagnosing and monitoring this carcinoma can be complex due to its unique biomarkers. Procalcitonin (PCT), a precursor of calcitonin, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) are important markers for MTC. Elevated PCT levels, particularly when they remain high post-infection treatment, and elevated CEA levels are significant indicators for suspecting MTC. This report emphasises the diagnostic and prognostic importance of these biomarkers in MTC, highlighting their roles in detecting and monitoring disease progression. Integrating PCT and CEA measurements into routine clinical practice can enhance detection, provide understanding of therapeutic responses and aid in the effective management of MTC.
Atitude linguística em relação ao falar de LGBTQIA+ na Paraíba
Authors: Souza-Silva André Luiz
Published: June 2024

As atitudes linguísticas dizem respeito às manifestações da atitude social dos/as falantes no que diz respeito, especificamente, à língua(gem) e ao uso que se faz dela em sociedade. Na direção dessas ideias, o presente artigo analisa atitudes linguísticas de sujeitos LGBTQIA+ e não LGBTQIA+ em relação ao falar de pessoas de identidades sexuais e de gênero dissidentes. Para tanto, mobilizo conhecimentos sobre atitude e identidade linguísticas aplicadas ao gênero e à sexualidade. Este estudo é, predominantemente, qualitativo, realizado a partir de questionário, o qual possibilitou a geração de dados junto a vinte participantes divididos em dois grupos: dez LGBTQIA+ e dez não LGBTQIA+. Nesse trajeto metodológico, há dados em que a maioria dos/ as falantes LGBTQIA+ apresentam atitudes no nível mais comportamental do que afetivo, no que tange ao uso da língua(gem) desse grupo social em questão. No geral, há atitudes amistosas. Por fim, o grupo não LGBTQIA+ apresenta disposições tolerantes, mas a maioria se distanciou de avaliações mais desenvolvidas, restringindo-se a avaliar como normal/natural, sem maiores considerações sobre aspectos da fala.
Colocação pronominal em português: uma proposta para um contínuo luso-afro-brasileiro
Authors: Vaz Calindro Ana Regina , Gomes Alves Matheus , Leitão Martins Adriana
Published: June 2024

O objetivo geral deste trabalho é contribuir para a descrição e a análise da sintaxe dos clíticos das línguas naturais. Os objetivos específicos são: a) investigar a colocação de clíticos em português europeu (PE), português brasileiro (PB), português angolano (PA), português são-tomense (PST) e português moçambicano (PM) e b) propor um contínuo entre essas línguas no que tange aos padrões de colocação pronominal. Em relação a tal padrão, defende-se que as referidas línguas formariam o seguinte contínuo: (- proclíticas) PE > PST > PM > PA > PB (+ proclíticas). Sustenta-se, ainda, que a formulação de um contínuo entre essas línguas em relação ao fenômeno sob análise levaria em consideração os seguintes fatores: a) a possibilidade ou a impossibilidade de próclise em início absoluto de oração, b) a opacidade ou não de operadores de próclise e c) a frequência bruta de índices de próclise e ênclise. Interpreta-se, também, que a sugestão de um contínuo sintático poderia ser reforçada por fatores como a aquisição da língua como L1 e a presença de outros idiomas no contexto do PST, PM e PA, ocasionando uma transmissão com características de aprendizado de L2 para outras gerações.
Variación e influencia del español en el léxico disponible de la fala de Xálima: el centro de interés Partes del cuerpo
Authors: Flores Pérez Tamara
Published: June 2024

En el valle de Xálima (Cáceres), se hablan tres variedades (mañego en San Martín de Trevejo, lagarteiro en Eljas y valverdeiro en Valverde del Fresno) de una lengua perteneciente a la familia del gallego-portugués y conocida como fala de Xálima, valego o xalimego. A partir de una recopilación del léxico disponible de la comunidad, nos proponemos analizar las variaciones encontradas en el centro de interés Partes del cuerpo, con especial atención a las interferencias de la lengua techo (el español) en todos los niveles lingüísticos: fonético, morfológico y léxico. Además, examinaremos si las variables sociolingüísticas establecidas en el estudio tienen alguna influencia en el proceso de sustitución lingüística de algunos términos.
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VARIAÇÃO E INFLUÊNCIA DO ESPANHOL NO LÉXICO DISPONÍVEL DA FALA DE XÁLIMA: O CENTRO DE INTERESSE PARTES DO CORPO
No Vale de Xálima (Cáceres), falam-se três variedades (manhego em São Martinho de Trebelho, lagarteiro em As Elhas e valverdeiro em Valverde do Fresno) de uma língua pertencente à família do galego-português e conhecida como fala de Xálima, valego ou xalimego. A partir de uma recolha do léxico disponível da comunidade, propomo-nos a analisar as variações encontradas no centro de interesse Partes do corpo, com especial atenção às interferências da língua-teto (o espanhol) em todos os níveis linguísticos: fonético, morfológico e lexical. Além disso, examinaremos se as variáveis sociolinguísticas estabelecidas no estudo têm alguma influência no processo de substituição linguística de alguns termos.
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Original em espanhol.
Variação e mudança linguística na designação dos dedos da mão na fronteira hispano-portuguesa
Authors: Gómez Bautista Alberto
Published: June 2024

As línguas mudam ao longo do tempo. O léxico é uma das áreas em que essas transformações são mais evidentes, mas não é a única. O fenómeno objeto de análise neste artigo é o da mudança linguística relacionada com os nomes dos dedos da mão. Esta mudança linguística está a produzir-se também nas variedades linguísticas faladas na fronteira hispano-portuguesa. Procurar-se-á identificar as causas subjacentes a esta mudança. Para este efeito, vamos trabalhar com materiais recolhidos no corpus oral do projeto FRONTESPO. A partir de uma seleção de um conjunto de pontos de inquérito localizados em zonas raianas, analisaremos os dados fornecidos pelos informantes sobre os referentes utilizados para designar os cinco conceitos objeto deste estudo: os nomes dos dedos da mão. Examinaremos os dados recolhidos para as variedades linguísticas faladas na fronteira hispano-portuguesa: galego, castelhano, português, barranquenho, mirandês e leonês. Com base nos resultados obtidos nos pontos de inquérito selecionados, medir-se-á o grau de conservação das formas tradicionais dos cinco conceitos analisados.
Tailoring advice
Authors: Watwood Jacob
Published: June 2024

Jacob Watwood emphasises the need for personal patient support to improve oral health.
It's confidential
Authors: Andrews Dena
Published: June 2024

Dena Andrews looks at the stresses on mental health within dentistry, and who to can reach out to.
Analgesia for emergency laparotomy: a systematic review
Authors: Passi Neha N , Gupta Aayushi , Lusby Eimear , Scott Sara , Sehmbi Herman , Hare Sarah , Oliver Charles M
Published: June 2024

Aims/Background

Poorly controlled pain is common after emergency laparotomy. It causes distress, hinders rehabilitation, and predisposes to complications: prolonged hospitalisation, persistent pain, and reduced quality of life. The aim of this systematic review was to compare the relative efficacies of pre-emptive analgesia for emergency laparotomy to inform practice.

Methods

We performed a search of MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and SCOPUS for comparator studies of preoperative/intraoperative interventions to control/reduce postoperative pain in adults undergoing emergency laparotomy (EL) for general surgical pathologies. Exclusion criteria: surgery including non-abdominal sites; postoperative sedation and/or intubation; non-formal assessment of pain; non-English manuscripts. All manuscripts were screened by two investigators.

Results

We identified 2389 papers. Following handsearching and removal of duplicates, 1147 were screened. None were eligible for inclusion, with many looking at elective and/or laparoscopic surgeries.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate there is no evidence base for pre-emptive analgesic strategies in emergency laparotomy. This contrasts substantially with elective cohorts. Potential reasons include variation in practice, management of physiological derangement taking priority, and perceived contraindications to neuraxial techniques. We urge a review of contemporary practice, with analysis of clinical data, to generate expert consensus.
Making the cut? Reviewing the quality of surgical care in adults with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Koomson D’Marieanne , Shotton Hannah , Abercrombie John , McPherson Simon , Abercrombie John
Published: June 2024

The National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) reviewed the quality of care provided to adult patients undergoing surgery for Crohn’s disease. The study reviewed elective, and emergency surgical pathways and the report highlighted clinical and organisational changes that should be made to improve patient care and outcomes.
Microbiological Investigation of Reusing Disposable Saliva Ejectors
Authors: Prismasari Septika , Mun Hye Young , Lee Sang Gu , Kim So Yeon , Song Ji-Hyun , Kim Ga Young , Kang Jung Yun
Published: June 2024

Objective: Dental instruments are often designed for single use; however, some dental clinics resort to reusing instruments, including saliva ejectors. In this study, we aimed to investigate and compare various disinfection and sterilization methods for contaminated disposable salivary ejectors. Methods: Saliva ejectors contaminated with Streptococcus mutans were divided into f ive groups: negative control, positive control, cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization. Surface contamination and microbial culture tests were conducted using the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) test and colony-forming units (CFUs) counting, respectively. One-way ANOVA was used to assess the differences among groups. Results: There were no significant differences among the cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization groups based on immediate ATP test. However, CFU counts were significantly higher in the cleaning and disinfection groups compared to negative control group, while no microbial growth was observed in the sterilization group. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that saliva ejectors harbor bacteria capable of growth, even after cleaning with a toothbrush or disinfectant. Autoclaving proved to be the most effective sterilization method, eliminating microbial growth, and allowing for microbiological reuse. Future studies involving diverse microorganisms and different types of contaminants are recommended.
Study on the treatment of dysphagia after stroke with electromyographic biofeedback intensive training
Authors: Meng Qing-Nan , Zhu Yue , Liu Si-Wen , Hu Bin , Chai De-Jun , Dong Chun-Xue
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia, or swallowing disorder, is a common complication following stroke, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Electromyographic biofeedback (EMGBF) therapy has emerged as a potential rehabilitation technique to improve swallowing function, but its efficacy in comparison with conventional treatments remains to be further explored.

AIM

To investigate the effects of different treatment intensities of EMGBF on swallowing function and motor speed after stroke.

METHODS

The participants were divided into three groups, all of which received routine neurological drug therapy and motor function rehabilitation training. On the basis of routine swallowing disorder training, the EMGBF group received additional EMGBF training, while the enhanced EMGBF group received two additional training sessions. Four weeks before and after treatment, the degree of swallowing disorder was evaluated using the degree of swallowing disorder score (VGF) and the Rosenbek penetration-aspiration scale (PAS).

RESULTS

Initially, there was no significant difference in VGF and PAS scores among the groups (P > 0.05). After four weeks, all groups showed significant improvement in both VGF scores and PAS scores. Furthermore, the standardized swallowing assessment and videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale scores also improved significantly post-treatment, indicating enhanced swallowing function and motor function of the hyoid-bone laryngeal complex, particularly in the intensive EMGBF group.

CONCLUSION

EMGBF training is more effective than traditional swallowing training in improving swallowing function and the movement rate of the hyoid laryngeal complex in patients with post-stroke dysphagia.