bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the Land Suitability for Paddy, Corn, and Soybean in Tropical Situation of Jombang District, Indonesia
Authors: Arifin Zainal , Setyorini Dwi , Sihombing Donald , Sugiono Sugiono , Latifah Evy , Saeri Mohammad , Hermanto Catur , Krismawati Amik , Istiqomah Nurul , Fidiyawati Eni
Published: July 2024

The characterization and introduction of agroecology is separated into several zones based on the physical conditions of the environment. This study aimed to obtain land suitability for paddy, corn, and soybean‐based information and potential of the local resource, which is a digital map of agroecological zones (AEZs) and crop requirements in Jombang district. The strategy is that land suitability zones for rice, corn, and soybeans can be extrapolated to other areas that have the similar agroecology zones in the Jombang region or other regions in Indonesia. This research includes the following 3 series of activities: (1) data gathering and administration, (2) field activities, and (3) data processing. Information on climate characteristics, plant growth, and needs were obtained from field studies and literature studies and then the information was overlaid using a land use expert system with the ALES (automated land evaluation system) program to determine the ZAE class. The results of this study were that AEZ in Jombang district is dominated by Zone IV with a slope of <8% (66.69%), consisting of paddy, corn, soybeans, and sugarcane commodities. Zone III with a slope of 8–15% (1.77%) consists of mango, banana, and corn commodities. Zone II with a slope of 15–30% (3.38%) consists of durian and mango commodities. The zone above (30–40% slope) is an area with natural vegetation (4.79%). Suitable land (S1) for rice is 37,062 Ha (33.09%) and for corn is 14,698 Ha (13.12%), and quite suitable land (S2) for soyabean, is divided into S2nr (nutrient retention), an area of 10.99%, and S2rc, nr (root media and nutrient retention), and an area of 18.33%. Land suitability class determines the level of land management and technology required to obtain optimal crop yields. Land suitability for paddy, corn, and soybeans based on ZAE in Jombang District can be extrapolated to other areas that have similarities.
Characterization and Pathogenicity of Novel Reassortment H6N6 Avian Influenza Viruses in Southern China
Authors: Zhu Puduo , He Xudong , Chen Yiquan , Yan Zhuanqiang , Li Qunhui , Zhou Qi , Lin Wencheng , Chen Feng
Published: July 2024

The H6N6 avian influenza virus (AIV) subtype is one of the most frequently isolated subtypes in poultry, and it has a broad host range. Some strains can overcome species barriers for transmission and infect humans. Increased affinity for human‐type receptors is a key factor in this process. In this study, two H6N6 AIV strains originating from five different clades, in which amino acid 226 of hemagglutinin was mutated from glutamine to lysine, were isolated from ducks. The receptor‐binding preference and pathogenicity of the two strains in poultry and mice were evaluated. The results indicated that the DK/GD/W3 strain can bind to both α‐2,6 and α‐2,3 receptors, whereas the DK/GD/L31 strain maintained affinity toward avian‐origin α‐2,3 receptors, highlighting differences in receptor tropism and pathogenicity to different hosts for two H6N6 strains with the same genetic background. These findings have revealed the complex recombination characteristics and molecular characteristics of H6N6 circulating strains in the environment and underscored the importance of continuous surveillance of this subtype for livestock and poultry health as well as human safety.
Enhancing Smart City Functions through the Mitigation of Electricity Theft in Smart Grids: A Stacked Ensemble Method
Authors: Hashim Muhammad , Khan Laiq , Javaid Nadeem , Ullah Zahid , Shaheen Ifra
Published: July 2024

Smart grid is the primary stakeholder in smart cities integrated with modern technologies as the Internet of Things (IoT), smart healthcare systems, industrial IoT, renewable energy, energy communities, and the 6G network. Smart grids provide bidirectional power and information flow by integrating many IoT devices and software. These advanced IOTs and cyber layers introduced new types of vulnerabilities and could compromise the stability of smart grids. Some anomalous consumers leverage these vulnerabilities, launch theft attacks on the power system, and steal electricity to lower their electricity bills. The recent developments in numerous detection methods have been supported by cutting‐edge machine learning (ML) approaches. Even so, these recent developments are practically not robust enough because of the limitations of single ML approaches employed. This research introduced a stacked ensemble method for electricity theft detection (ETD) in a smart grid. The framework detects anomalous consumers in two stages; in the first stage, four powerful classifiers are stacked and detect suspicious activity, and the output of these consumers is fed to a single classifier for the second‐stage classification to get better results. Furthermore, we incorporate kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) and localized random affine shadow sampling (LoRAS) for feature engineering and data augmentation. We also perform comparative analysis using adaptive synthesis (ADASYN) and independent component analysis (ICA). The simulation findings reveal that the proposed model outperforms with 97% accuracy, 97% AUC score, and 98% precision.
Design and Analysis of Irregular Hexagonal Patch Antenna Using Multiport Network Model (MNM)
Authors: Biswas Mishor , Ghosh Soham , Dey Suman , Patra Kaushik , Gupta Bhaskar
Published: July 2024

Multiport network model (MNM) of microstrip patch antennas is an extension of cavity model analysis. In MNM, electromagnetic fields present under and outside patch are modeled separately and the patch is considered as a planar element with multiple ports at its edges. The MNM approach was previously used for the analysis of different patches such as rectangular and circular. However, MNM analysis for irregular‐shaped hexagonal patch antenna is not studied yet. Analysis of hexagonal patch antenna is required for its several advantages over other patches such as equivalent surface current distribution with less size compared to circular patch and higher bandwidth. In this work, the irregular‐shaped hexagonal patch antenna is analyzed using MNM technique. The antenna is decomposed into rectangular and right‐angle triangular segments. Multiport impedance (Z) matrices are calculated for all elements based on Green’s functions of corresponding shapes. Finally, the current distribution of the complete patch is obtained by connecting these elements using Z matrices. The irregular‐shaped patch antenna is fabricated, and its responses are measured to verify the results obtained from MNM analysis. MNM can estimate antenna performance with ~3.5% average error with respect to simulated responses in terms of antenna performance parameters.
Supplementary Figure 2 from A Kinome-Wide Synthetic Lethal CRISPR/Cas9 Screen Reveals That mTOR Inhibition Prevents Adaptive Resistance to CDK4/CDK6 Blockade in HNSCC
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Koshizuka Keiichi , Ando Toshinori , Izumi Hiroki , Wu Xingyu , Sato Kuniaki , Ishikawa Tomohiko , Ford Kyle , Feng Xiaodong , Wang Zhiyong , Arang Nadia , Allevato Michael M. , Kishore Ayush , Mali Prashant , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: July 2024

Combination of INK128 and palbociclib showed strong synergism in HNSCC cells in vitro
Supplementary Figure 1 from A Kinome-Wide Synthetic Lethal CRISPR/Cas9 Screen Reveals That mTOR Inhibition Prevents Adaptive Resistance to CDK4/CDK6 Blockade in HNSCC
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Koshizuka Keiichi , Ando Toshinori , Izumi Hiroki , Wu Xingyu , Sato Kuniaki , Ishikawa Tomohiko , Ford Kyle , Feng Xiaodong , Wang Zhiyong , Arang Nadia , Allevato Michael M. , Kishore Ayush , Mali Prashant , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: July 2024

CRISPR screening identified cell cycle pathway as synthetic lethal pathway for mTORi in HNSCC
The Role of Angiopoietins in Cardiovascular Outcomes of Kidney Transplant Recipients: An Ancillary Study from the FAVORIT
Authors: Gendy Natalie , Brown Liam , Staunton Mary Kate , Garg Kanika , Hernandez Garcilazo Nora , Qian Long , Yamamoto Yu , Ugwuowo Ugochukwu , Obeid Wassim , Al-Qusairi Lama , Bostom Andrew , Mansour Sherry G.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. We investigated vascular biomarkers, angiopoietin-1, and angiopoietin-2 (angpt-1, -2), in CVD development in KTRs. Methods: This ancillary study from the FAVORIT evaluates the associations of baseline plasma angpt-1, -2 levels in CVD development (primary outcome) and graft failure (GF) and death (secondary outcomes) in 2000 deceased donor KTRs. We used Cox regression to analyze the association of biomarker quartiles with outcomes. We adjusted for demographic; CVD- and transplant-related variables; medications; urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio; and randomization status. We calculated areas under the curves (AUCs) to predict CVD or death, and GF or death by incorporating biomarkers alongside clinical variables. Results: Participants’ median age was 52 IQR [45, 59] years: with 37% women and 73% identifying as white. Median time from transplantation was 3.99 IQR [1.58, 7.93] years and to CVD development was 2.54 IQR [1.11–3.80] years. Quartiles of angpt-1 were not associated with outcomes. Whereas higher levels of angpt-2 (quartile 4) were associated with about 2 times the risk of CVD, GF, and death (aHR 1.85 [1.25–2.73], p < 0.01; 2.24 [1.36–3.70)], p < 0.01; 2.30 [1.48–3.58], p < 0.01, respectively) as compared to quartile 1. Adding angiopoietins to preexisting clinical variables improved prediction of CVD or death (AUC improved from 0.70 to 0.72, p = 0.005) and GF or death (AUC improved from 0.68 to 0.70, p = 0.005). Angpt-2 may partially explain the increased risk of future CVD in KTRs. Further research is needed to assess the utility of using angiopoietins in the clinical care of KTRs. Conclusion: Angpt-2 may be a useful prognostic tool for future CVD in KTRs. Combining angiopoietins with clinical markers may tailor follow-up to mitigate CVD risk.
Temporal and Spatial Dynamics of Ischemic Stroke Lesions after Acute Therapy: A Comprehensive Edema Assessment Using Combined 1H- and 23Na-MRI
Authors: Mohamed Sherif A. , Adlung Anne , Ludwig Nadia K. , Samartzi Melina , Schad Lothar R. , Fatar Marc , Neumaier-Probst Eva
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Ischemic cerebral stroke initiates a complex cascade of pathophysiological events, involving various forms of molecular shifts and edema. Early intervention is pivotal in minimizing tissue loss and improving clinical outcomes. This study explores the temporal and spatial evolution of tissue sodium concentration (TSC) in acute ischemic lesions after acute therapy using 23Na-MRI in addition to conventional 1H-MRI. Methods: Prospectively, from examined 58 patients with acute ischemic stroke with a combined 1H/23Na-MRI within 72 h of symptom onset after receiving acute therapy, 31 patients were included in the evaluation of this study. After co-registration of the 23Na-MRI images to the morphological 1H-MRI images, manual segmentation of the ischemic lesions was performed, and the ADC and TSC measurements were quantified and correlated with the time of onset and lesion volume. Results: The mean TSC in ischemic lesions correlated positively with lesion volume (r = 0.52, p = 0.002) and showed a significant association with the time of stroke onset (r = 0.8, p < 0.001). Patients who were treated only with intravenous rtPA showed homogenous sodium signal intensity in the ischemic lesions, whereas the patients who received mechanical recanalization exhibited distinctive sodium signal intensity patterns with focal significant TSC differences. Conclusion: The integration of 1H- and 23Na-MRI provides a nuanced understanding of temporal and spatial changes due to different types of edema in ischemic stroke lesions following acute treatment. Further exploration of these findings may enhance our understanding of stroke pathophysiology and guide personalized therapeutic interventions.
Prognostic Factors for Chronic Thrombocytopenia in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Ahn Soo Min , Choi Eun-Ji , Oh Ji Seon , Kim Yong-Gil , Lee Chang-Keun , Yoo Bin , Hong Seokchan
Published: July 2024

Introduction: We aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and risk factors for chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with SLE-associated ITP between January 2000 and December 2021. Patient characteristics were analyzed according to the progression of chronic thrombocytopenia. No response was defined as a platelet count <30 × 109/L or less than double the baseline count after treatment. Factors associated with chronic ITP were evaluated by logistic regression analysis. Results: Among the 121 patients with SLE-associated ITP, 27 progressed to chronic ITP lasting more than 1 year after initial diagnosis. The median initial platelet count was significantly lower in patients with chronic thrombocytopenia than in those without the disease (16 vs. 51 × 109/L). Patients who did not achieve a response within 1 month of treatment exhibited a high probability of progressing to chronic ITP (55.6 vs. 22.3%, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that severe thrombocytopenia at baseline (<20 × 109/L) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 13.628, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.976–46.791) and no response within 1 month (aOR = 9.171, 95% CI = 2.776–30.298) were significantly associated with the risk of progression to chronic ITP in patients with SLE. Approximately one-quarter of the patients with SLE-associated ITP progressed to chronic ITP. Conclusion: Severe thrombocytopenia and failure to achieve a response within 1 month were risk factors for the development of chronic ITP in those patients.
Fetal Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction: Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies and Future Directions
Authors: Menchaca Alicia D. , Olutoye Oluyinka O.
Published: July 2024

Background: Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a rare congenital anomaly in which the bladder cannot empty properly. The clinical presentation is variable. On the severe end of the spectrum, the amniotic fluid index can be sufficiently low, resulting in fetal lung development that is incompatible with life outside the womb. The pressure in the urinary tract system can also result in severe damage to the kidney, resulting in renal failure in utero or in the first couple years of life. Therefore, much work has been done to determine which fetuses need intervention in utero to allow for survival outside of the womb and avoidance of end-stage renal disease. Multiple therapies have been developed to relieve the obstruction in utero with the mainstay being vesicoamniotic shunting and posterior urethral valve ablation. Summary: While much has been investigated to determine which fetuses would benefit from fetal intervention, the current indications are not without their flaws. This review describes the current indications and their shortcomings, as well as new experimental methods of determining need for intervention. Additionally, this review describes the milestone animal studies that established the challenges of current fetal interventions and the utility of an experimental valved shunt in sheep over the last 20 years. Key Messages: Our understanding of LUTO and which fetuses benefit from in utero intervention has grown over the last 20 years. However, traditional markers have proven to be less predictive than previously thought, opening the door to exciting new advances. Vesicoamniotic shunting, while lifesaving, does not preserve bladder function and frequently dislodges. Animal studies over the last 20 years have established the utility of a valved shunt to maintain bladder function. Current advances are working to create such a shunt that can be percutaneously deployed and have greater adherence to the bladder wall to avoid dislodgement.
Clinical Implications of C2 Lesion in IgA Nephropathy: A Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Zi , Zhou Xujie , Shi Sufang , Liu Lijun , Lv Jicheng , Zhang Hong
Published: July 2024

Introduction: In 2016, the Oxford Classification of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) updated its scoring system for the glomerular crescents. Despite this, the clinical significance of crescentic lesions in the updated Oxford classification is still unexplored through prospective cohort studies. Methods: 134 patients diagnosed with IgAN accompanied with C2 lesions at Peking University First Hospital were consecutively enrolled and prospectively followed up for analysis. Multivariate Cox regression in combination with LASSO regression was used to analyze risk factors associated with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Results: During biopsy, the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 39.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, and the mean proteinuria was 4.4 g/day. The proportion of kidney failure at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years were 24%, 34%, and 47%, respectively. The results of LASSO in combination with Cox regression showed that mean arterial pressure (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.035, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.013–1.056, p = 0.001), eGFR at biopsy (HR = 0.968, 95% CI [0.948–0.990], p < 0.004) and T2 lesions (HR = 2.490, 95% CI [1.179–5.259], p = 0.017) were independent risk factor associated with ESKD in patients with C2 lesions. Furthermore, based on univariate analyses, we found that patients with kidney function declined more than 50% within 3 months prior to biopsy or pathological findings indicated a proportion of crescents exceeding 50% were both associated with a poor kidney prognosis. Lastly, when the proportion of the crescent was less than 50%, patients receiving combined steroid and immunosuppressant treatment did not exhibit a better renal prognosis than those receiving steroid only. Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with IgAN and concurrent C2 lesions exhibited a poor clinical prognosis, necessitating more effective treatment strategies.
Antibodies Targeting the Tumor Necrosis Factor-Like Ligand 1A in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A New Kid on the (Biologics) Block?
Authors: Schweckendiek Daniel , Rogler Gerhard
Published: July 2024

Background: The treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have grown over the last years. However, a significant fraction of patients either do not respond to their treatment or lose response over time. Summary: Future treatment options could include antibodies that target the tumor necrosis factor-like ligand 1A (TL1A). TL1A is a key cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of autoimmune diseases including IBD. Studies have shown that IBD disease severity correlates well with serum levels of TL1A. Phase 2 data from two agents currently in clinical testing have been released. In line with requirements for modern therapeutics, companion diagnostic was part of these trials. This aims to identify those patients that are more likely to respond to the agents tested. Key Messages: With regard to the available data the risk/benefit profile of TL1A inhibitors seems to be promising. This article gives a short update and overview, where we are at this point in time with antibodies targeting the TL1A protein in IBD.
Blood-Based Frailty Index in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Undergoing Endovascular Treatment
Authors: Rust Marcus , Küppers Charlotte , Nikoubashman Omid , Wiesmann Martin , Schulz Jörg B. , Werner Cornelius J. , Reich Arno , Pinho João
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Frailty is a syndrome depicting the vulnerability of multiple physiological systems to stressors. Frailty measures, such as Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS), can be used to identify frailty and predict outcomes more reliably. Our aim was to analyze a blood-based frailty index (FI-B) at admission for prediction outcomes of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) undergoing endovascular treatment (EVT). Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive AIS patients undergoing EVT in a single tertiary center during a period of 5 years. A set of eighteen blood parameters at admission were collected and nine of these were utilized to calculate FI-B. We analyzed the relationship between FI-B and HFRS. We examined the baseline characteristics of the study population based on FI-B-tertiles. Multivariable regression models were employed to ascertain the association between FI-B and in-hospital mortality, 3-month mortality and 3-month functional outcome. Results: The final study population comprised 489 patients, with a median age of 75.6 years, 49.5% of patients were male. The FI-B exhibited a weak positive correlation with HFRS (rho = 0.113, p = 0.016). Patients in higher FI-B-tertiles were older and more frequently presented with pre-stroke functional dependence and comorbidities. Moreover, an increasing FI-B was independently associated with increased likelihood of in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.14–1.47), 3-month mortality (aOR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.11–1.43), and of increasing 3-month functional disability measured by utility-weighted modified Rankin Scale (common aOR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.76–0.93). Conclusion: A frailty index based on blood values at admission was able to identify frailty in AIS patients undergoing EVT and was an independent predictor of short- and medium-term outcome after stroke.
Effect of Hydration with Bicarbonate Ringer’s Solution on Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Esophageal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Takemura Miho , Ikemura Kenji , Okuda Masahiro
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Cisplatin (CDDP) often causes acute kidney injury (AKI), and magnesium supplementation has been suggested to be important in preventing CDDP-induced AKI. Sodium bicarbonate Ringer’s solution (BRS) is a crystalloid solution composed of various electrolytes, including Mg2+, and can be generally used to supplement missing extracellular fluid and correct metabolic acidosis; however, the clinical outcomes of hydration with BRS for CDDP-induced AKI remain unclear. In this study, we retrospectively compared the effects of BRS and normal saline for hydration in patients undergoing CDDP treatment. Methods: We analyzed the incidence rate of AKI (grade ≥ 1), the severity of AKI, the serum magnesium level, and the incidence rate of grade ≥ 3 hematological toxicities (leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia) following CDDP and fluorouracil (5-FU) administration in 131 in-patients who received CDDP and 5-FU for the first time to treat esophageal cancer. Results: Fifty-six patients (43%) received saline alone, while 75 patients (57%) received BRS for hydration. The incidence rate of AKI (grade ≥ 1) was significantly lower in the BRS group (11%) than that in the saline group (39%, p < 0.001). Moreover, severe AKI (grade ≥ 2) was significantly less common in the BRS group than in the saline group. Although the serum magnesium levels before CDDP administration were not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.939), the serum magnesium levels on days 2–3 after CDDP administration in the BRS group were significantly higher than those in the saline group (p < 0.001). In contrast, there were no significant differences in the incidence rates of hematological toxicity between the two groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that BRS use was an independent factor that significantly contributed to AKI prevention (odds ratio = 0.061, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Hydration with BRS could prevent CDDP-induced AKI in patients with esophageal cancer.
Comunicação olímpica, passado, presente e possíveis futuros. Com Paulo Conde, diretor de Comunicação do Comitê Olímpico do Brasil
Authors: Almeida William Douglas de , Rubio Katia
Published: July 2024

Communication is one of the pillars of the International Olympic Movement. In addition to informing the public about what happens at the Olympic Games, the media, mainly television, are the main financiers of the International Olympic Committee, through the purchase of broadcasting rights. However, the technological and paradigmatic change in communication in recent years poses future challenges and has already changed the way in which national Olympic committees structure their communication departments. In an interview, the communication director of the Brazilian Olympic Committee, Paulo Conde, describes how the work is currently developed and reflects on the future challenges of Olympic communication.
O debate sobre liberdade de expressão no jornal O Globo: mediação jornalística, hierarquização de vozes e condicionamentos ideológicos
Authors: Sena Ercio , Scabin Nara Lya Cabral
Published: July 2024

Diante da necessidade de problematizar as formas pelas quais a imprensa liberal representa e se posiciona a respeito da liberdade de expressão, este artigo buscar mapear e discutir a mediação produzida pelo jornal O Globo acerca desse debate. Para tanto, propõe-se a análise de um corpus formado por doze textos veiculados entre novembro de 2022 e abril de 2024, identificados a partir de buscas realizadas por meio da ferramenta de pesquisa disponível no site do jornal O Globo. De modo a compreender os quadros interpretativos mobilizados na mediação do debate sobre liberdade de expressão pelo jornal O Globo, recorre-se ao conceito de enquadramento jornalístico, considerando, como operadores analíticos, as temáticas abordadas nas matérias e as vozes convocadas a tomar parte nas representações desse debate.
Mulheres negras em música e política: um olhar sobre a 1ª temporada da série Diaspóricas
Authors: Costa Ana Clara Gomes
Published: July 2024

Diaspóricas é uma série documental sobre a Música Preta Brasileira que é feita por mulheres que se encontram em Goiás. São mulheres musicistas cerradeiras, amefricanas (Gonzalez, 1988), sonoras, pretas e centrais, promovendo práticas de liberdade (hooks, 2013) de ressignificação da diáspora negra, a partir da transgressão por meio da música. A série celebra a negritude, o ser mulher e a música brasileira, a partir da conexão em África. Celebramos a resistência diaspórica de mulheres negras que utilizam seus múltiplos fazeres musicais como tática de existência. Diaspóricas são mulheres em atravessamentos afromusicais que se reconhecem mesmo não se conhecendo. São mulheres negras existindo por meio da música. Pela arte, pela negritude e pelo ser mulher, mulheres pretas e pardas se reconhecem como portadoras de tecnologias ancestrais para transgredir a sistemas de opressão.
Conceptualization of Firearm-Related Terms Among Rural Adolescents: Definitions Matter
Authors: Weybright Elizabeth H. , Hall Ashley , Willoughby Jessica , Dalve Kimberly , Schleimer Julia , Ellyson Alice , Watters Cassandra , Gause Emma , Kuklinski Margaret R. , Varrella Gary , Rowhani-Rahbar Ali
Published: July 2024

Rural adolescents are at risk for firearm-related injury and death. In response, professional organizations have called for communication between adolescents, parents, and providers about firearms. A shared understanding of firearms between providers and families can facilitate effectiveness of health interventions. However, few studies engage adolescents in identifying their perception of common firearm terminology. The current study aimed to understand how adolescents in rural communities defined firearm-related terms including firearm, carrying, and handling, and differences in terms based on prior firearm training. Data were from a mixed methods community-based participatory study of 93 adolescents from rural Washington state. Thematic qualitative coding identified themes for firearm (gun, weapon, projectile, and tool), carrying (on you/your person, transportation, and holding), and handling (actively using, safe use, and holding) and differences between those with prior firearms training. Findings provide insight into perceptions of firearm-related terms for adolescents, an often-neglected voice, and inform rural policy and prevention efforts.
A peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonist for treating opioid-associated tinnitus: A case report
Authors: Ogawa Satoru , Amaya Fumimasa
Published: July 2024

Background:

The use of opioids occasionally causes tinnitus. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the use of peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists for opioid-associated tinnitus in patients with cancer.

Actual case:

A 74-year-old male with pancreatic cancer complained of abdominal pain. Two days after initiating oxycodone therapy, the patient experienced tinnitus during body movements. Although peripheral tinnitus disappeared after discontinuing oxycodone, it reappeared with hydromorphone or tapentadol administration.

Possible courses of action:

Drug cessation is a preferred intervention for drug-induced tinnitus; however, the cessation of opioids may not be feasible in patients with cancer who are already taking opioids.

Formulation of a plan:

Based on the presumed mechanism of peripheral tinnitus, the use of peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists was planned, and 200 μg/day of naldemedine was prescribed for tinnitus relief.

Outcome:

Tinnitus disappeared immediately after initiating naldemedine, and the pain was well-controlled. The effect was preserved after increasing or switching opioids.

Lessons:

The use of peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists may be an option to treat opioid-associated tinnitus without compromising the analgesic effects.

View:

Further clinical data regarding the secondary effect of peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists on opioid-associated complications other than constipation are required.
Study of feline immunodeficiency virus prevalence and expert opinions on standards of care
Authors: Nehring Mary , Dickmann Ellyn M , Billington Kara , VandeWoude Sue
Published: July 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify knowledge gaps in the global prevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and to obtain professional opinions and experiences regarding FIV in selected countries. We conducted a literature review of abstracts that reported the prevalence of FIV and interviewed experts in feline medicine and retroviruses from different countries to determine regional perspectives.

Methods

A total of 90 articles reporting FIV prevalence as a primary unbiased population-level analysis between 1980 and 2017 were indexed. FIV prevalence, demographics, year and location were analyzed. Statistics were evaluated and compared. In total, 10 experts were interviewed. Results were analyzed for congruence with the findings of the literature review.

Results

FIV prevalence was typically in the range of 5–8%, with a global prevalence of 4.7%, and remained largely constant over the reporting period (1980–2017). Over 90% of articles reported greater prevalence in older male cats. More studies were conducted in North America and Europe and reported the lowest prevalence. Expert-estimated prevalence approximated literature review prevalence. Attitudes and recommendations for management were consistent among experts. The limitations of the present review include varying inclusion criteria of cats tested in different studies, variation in testing modalities and the inability to conduct summary statistics across dissimilar cohorts.

Conclusions and relevance

The global prevalence of FIV has not changed since its discovery 40 years ago. Prevalence is higher in older male cats and is lower in North America and Europe than other continents. Experts agree that FIV is not typically a disease of high concern and is often associated with infections of the oral cavity. Vaccination is not typically recommended and has been discontinued in North America. The evaluation of risk factors for FIV progression is useful in managing infections. Recommendations for future research include analyses to determine copathogen and environmental factors that impact progression, assessment of life span impacts and investigations of treatment efficacy and side effects.
An extended conceptualization of cultural intelligence
Authors: Semenov Alexey V , Randrianasolo Arilova
Published: July 2024

Cultural Intelligence (CQ) has gained prominence as a vital attribute for organizational managers, encompassing their ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts effectively. However, despite its acknowledged significance, the relationships among its dimensions need to be better understood. This paper contributes to the existing CQ literature in two ways. First, we propose a model of CQ that integrates elements from previous conceptualizations, separating the motivational component. Our proposed framework retains the metacognitive, cognitive, and behavioral CQ dimensions but does not assume predefined relationships among them. Instead, we demonstrate that metacognitive CQ positively influences cognitive and behavioral CQ. Second, this paper explores the culture-specificity of the applications of CQ dimensions. We challenge the prevailing notion that CQ applications are culture-neutral, offering initial evidence to the contrary. Our research contributes to refining CQ conceptualization and provides practical insights for recruiting and developing internationally oriented managers with a strong emphasis on their CQ enhancement. Ultimately, this study addresses the pressing need to unravel the intricate dynamics of CQ and its dimensions, enhancing our understanding of its role in international management effectiveness.
Does the type of pharmacy used influence medication adherence? A retrospective observational study in Aotearoa, New Zealand
Authors: Nind James , Marra Carlo A. , Scahill Shane , Siermans Charlotte , Smith Alesha
Published: July 2024

Background:

Community pharmacies in New Zealand have varying ownership and operational structures. Unlike independent pharmacies, corporate and hybrid pharmacies do not charge prescription copayments.

Objectives:

This research aimed to determine whether people receiving free prescriptions from corporate and hybrid pharmacies (via copayment waiver) have greater medication adherence than the users of independent pharmacies.

Methods:

A nationwide, retrospective, observational study linked 1 year of dispensing data (1/05/2022 to 30/04/2023) from the Pharmaceutical Collection to patient enrollment data using a National Health Index number to identify demographics of different pharmacy-type users. People were assigned to a particular type of pharmacy if they collected at least 70% of their prescriptions from there; if they did not meet this threshold, they were defined as mixed users. People were classified as adherent if dispensing data showed they collected their supply of medication to cover at least 80% of the study period.

Results:

The sample captured 218,080 people taking at least 1 diabetes medication, with a total of 360,079 unique medications being included in the analysis. The majority, 156,893, used independent pharmacies. The type of pharmacy used was shown to be a significant predictor of adherence. Corporate and hybrid pharmacy users were 0.90 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.93) and 0.93 (95% CI 0.90 to 0.96) times as likely be adherent than the users of independent pharmacies. Mail order pharmacy users were the most likely to be adherent, whereas mixed pharmacy users were the least likely to be adherent.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that prescription copayments provided by corporate and hybrid pharmacies are not the most significant barrier to medication adherence. Further research may identify more efficient ways of improving medication adherence than removing prescription copayments for all.
Complexities in Context: Uncovering Differences in School Leaders’ Needs and Mentoring Based on School Environment
Authors: Kamin Samuel J. , Donaldson Morgaen L.
Published: July 2024

As the demands on public school leaders continue to increase, their need for support increases. Mentoring is one way school leaders may experience that support. In this paper, we examine the support school leaders state they need and the extent to which mentorship may be addressing those needs. We draw on survey results matched to school and district characteristics for 422 school leaders in a midsize northeastern state. Based on regression analyses, we find that many school leaders report needing support most strongly in instructional leadership and attending to equity and diversity. We also find that while many school leaders report the mentoring they receive is sufficient and beneficial, perceived sufficiency varies based on school environment.
Correcting Misperceptions of Fundamental Differences Between U.S. Republicans and Democrats: Some Hope-Inspiring Effects
Authors: Wolf Lukas J. , Hanel Paul H. P.
Published: July 2024

Perceived polarization between U.S. Democratic and Republican voters has grown over past decades, and this polarization underpins a dwindling sense of hope about the future. Contrary to this trend, the present three experiments (one pre-registered) with 2,529 U.S. participants found substantial similarities between the groups in their fundamental values. We tested whether depicting these real value similarities in overlapping distributions can correct misperceptions of group differences and increase hope. Republicans and Democrats who saw overlapping distributions perceived the groups as more similar and expressed more hope in open-ended comments, compared with seeing commonly used barplots or receiving no information. The effect on qualitative hope was partially explained by a sense of shared reality and potential for compromise between groups. We call on the social sciences to report the amount of group overlap when communicating research findings on group comparisons to the media and public to help reduce harmful perceptions of polarization.
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Psoas Muscle Area as the Prognostic Factor for Survival and Adverse Events in Spinal Metastasis Surgery
Authors: Boonchai Kitidate , Santipas Borriwat , Wilartratsami Sirichai , Ruangchainikom Monchai , Korwutthikulrangsri Ekkapoj , Akkarawanit Pawin , Luksanapruksa Panya
Published: July 2024

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of the mortality and adverse events prediction following metastatic spinal surgery of MRI-based cross-sectional psoas muscle area (PMA).

Methods

A retrospective chart review, 120 patients who had undergone metastatic spinal surgery were included. The cross-sectional area identified the PMA under MR-imaging at the L3 or L4 pedicle level, which was classified into 3 tertiles. We used univariate and multivariate cox proportional hazard regression to assess whether PMA was associated with 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and overall mortality.

Results

The small psoas tertile group populations had a higher mortality rate than the large psoas tertile group. PMA in T1 and T2 had a probability of a higher 90-d mortality rate than PMA in T3 (T1 VS T3: P = .29 and T2 VS T3: P = .12). The median survival time was 7 months, 9 months, and 10 months in PMA T1, T2, and T3, respectively. PMA in tertile 2 had a significantly higher mortality rate of 38% compared to PMA in tertile 3 (HR 1.38, 95% CI .83-2.32, P = .02). Considering PMA as a continuous variable, every 1 mm2 increment of PMA resulted in the increase survivorship of 1% (HR .99 with 95% CI .99-1)

Conclusion

The MRI-based cross-sectional PMA tends to predict the 90-d mortality rate and overall mortality rate in spinal metastasis patients who underwent spinal surgery. The PMA should be considered one of the prognostic factors in the treatment of metastatic spinal patients
Comparison between 16S rRNA and shotgun sequencing in colorectal cancer, advanced colorectal lesions, and healthy human gut microbiota
Authors: Bars-Cortina David , Ramon Elies , Rius-Sansalvador Blanca , Guinó Elisabet , Garcia-Serrano Ainhoa , Mach Núria , Khannous-Lleiffe Olfat , Saus Ester , Gabaldón Toni , Ibáñez-Sanz Gemma , Rodríguez-Alonso Lorena , Mata Alfredo , García-Rodríguez Ana , Obón-Santacana Mireia , Moreno Victor
Published: July 2024

Background

Gut dysbiosis has been associated with colorectal cancer (CRC), the third most prevalent cancer in the world. This study compares microbiota taxonomic and abundance results obtained by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (16S) and whole shotgun metagenomic sequencing to investigate their reliability for bacteria profiling. The experimental design included 156 human stool samples from healthy controls, advanced (high-risk) colorectal lesion patients (HRL), and CRC cases, with each sample sequenced using both 16S and shotgun methods. We thoroughly compared both sequencing technologies at the species, genus, and family annotation levels, the abundance differences in these taxa, sparsity, alpha and beta diversities, ability to train prediction models, and the similarity of the microbial signature derived from these models.

Results

As expected, the results showed that 16S detects only part of the gut microbiota community revealed by shotgun, although some genera were only profiled by 16S. The 16S abundance data was sparser and exhibited lower alpha diversity. In lower taxonomic ranks, shotgun and 16S highly differed, partially due to a disagreement in reference databases. When considering only shared taxa, the abundance was positively correlated between the two strategies. We also found a moderate correlation between the shotgun and 16S alpha-diversity measures, as well as their PCoAs. Regarding the machine learning models, only some of the shotgun models showed some degree of predictive power in an independent test set, but we could not demonstrate a clear superiority of one technology over the other. Microbial signatures from both sequencing techniques revealed taxa previously associated with CRC development, e.g., Parvimonas micra.

Conclusions

Shotgun and 16S sequencing provide two different lenses to examine microbial communities. While we have demonstrated that they can unravel common patterns (including microbial signatures), shotgun often gives a more detailed snapshot than 16S, both in depth and breadth. Instead, 16S will tend to show only part of the picture, giving greater weight to dominant bacteria in a sample. Therefore, we recommend choosing one or another sequencing technique before launching a study. Specifically, shotgun sequencing is preferred for stool microbiome samples and in-depth analyses, while 16S is more suitable for tissue samples and studies with targeted aims.
Characterization of DREB family genes in Lotus japonicus and LjDREB2B overexpression increased drought tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Dan , Zeng Yuanyuan , Yang Xiuxiu , Nie Shuming
Published: July 2024

Background

Drought stress affects plant growth and development. DREB proteins play important roles in modulating plant growth, development, and stress responses, particularly under drought stress. To study the function of DREB transcription factors (TFs), we screened key DREB-regulating TFs for drought in Lotus japonicus.

Results

Forty-two DREB TFs were identified, and phylogenetic analysis of proteins from L. japonicus classified them into five subfamilies (A1, A2, A4, A5, A6). The gene motif composition of the proteins is conserved within the same subfamily. Based on the cis-acting regulatory element analysis, we identified many growth-, hormone-, and stress-responsive elements within the promoter regions of DREB. We further analyzed the expression pattern of four genes in the A2 subfamily in response to drought stress. We found that the expression of most of the LjDREB A2 subfamily genes, especially LjDREB2B, was induced by drought stress. We further generated LjDREB2B overexpression transgenic Arabidopsis plants. Under drought stress, the growth of wild-type (WT) and overexpressing LjDREB2B (OE) Arabidopsis lines was inhibited; however, OE plants showed better growth. The malondialdehyde content of LjDREB2B overexpressing lines was lower than that of the WT plants, whereas the proline content and antioxidant enzyme activities in the OE lines were significantly higher than those in the WT plants. Furthermore, after drought stress, the expression levels of AtP5CS1, AtP5CS2, AtRD29A, and AtRD29B in the OE lines were significantly higher than those in the WT plants.

Conclusions

Our results facilitate further functional analysis of L. japonicus DREB. LjDREB2B overexpression improves drought tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis. These results indicate that DREB holds great potential for the genetic improvement of drought tolerance in L. japonicus.
A retrospective study of the effects of a vasopressor bolus on systolic slope (dP/dt) and dynamic arterial elastance (Eadyn)
Authors: Abdallah Alexa C. , Song Sang H , Fleming Neal W.
Published: July 2024

Background

To enhance the utility of functional hemodynamic monitoring, the variables systolic slope (dP/dt) and dynamic arterial elastance (Eadyn) are calculated by the Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI) Acumen® Software. This study was designed to characterize the effects of phenylephrine and ephedrine on dP/dt and Eadyn.

Methods

This was a retrospective, non-randomized analysis of data collected during two clinical studies. All patients required intra-operative controlled mechanical ventilation and had an indwelling radial artery catheter connected to an Acumen IQ sensor. Raw arterial pressure waveform data was downloaded from the patient monitor and all hemodynamic measurements were calculated off-line. The anesthetic record was reviewed for bolus administrations of either phenylephrine or ephedrine. Cardiovascular variables prior to drug administration were compared to those following vasopressor administrations. The primary outcome was the difference for dP/dt and Eadyn at baseline compared with the average after the bolus administration. All data sets demonstrated non-normal distributions so statistical analysis of paired and unpaired data followed the Wilcoxon matched pairs signed-rank test or Mann-Whitney U test, respectively.

Results

201 doses of phenylephrine and 100 doses of ephedrine were analyzed. All data sets are reported as median [95% CI]. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) increased from 62 [54,68] to 78 [76,80] mmHg following phenylephrine and from 59 [55,62] to 80 [77,83] mmHg following ephedrine. Stroke volume and cardiac output both increased. Stroke volume variation and pulse pressure variation decreased. Both drugs produced significant increases in dP/dt, from 571 [531, 645] to 767 [733, 811] mmHg/sec for phenylephrine and from 537 [509, 596] to 848 [779, 930] mmHg/sec for ephedrine. No significant changes in Eadyn were observed.

Conclusion

Bolus administration of phenylephrine or ephedrine increases dP/dt but does not change Eadyn. dP/dt demonstrates potential for predicting the inotropic response to phenylephrine or ephedrine, providing guidance for the most efficacious vasopressor when treating hypotension.

Trial registration

Data was collected from two protocols. The first was deemed to not require written, informed consent by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The second was IRB-approved (Effect of Diastolic Dysfunction on Dynamic Cardiac Monitors) and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04177225).