bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐induced extreme intoxication akin to automatism: A psycholegal tug of war
Authors: Curry Dennis , Rezaei Ardani Amir , Quinn Jason
Published: August 2024

Self‐induced extreme intoxication akin to automatism (SIEA) is a complicated and controversial legal concept resistant to jurisdictional consensus. In the United States, SIEA has, at times, been considered under the concept of “settled insanity.”. In the United Kingdom, the defense may be allowed for specific intent crimes, though the defendant's awareness of the foreseeability of risk is addressed at trial. In Canada, recent jurisprudence has led to legal and practice landscape changes related to self‐induced extreme intoxication. Here, we provide an overview of automatism and an update on the Canadian perspective with a review of the facts and an analysis of the Supreme Court of Canada's landmark decision in R v. Brown, where the court permitted the SIEA defense to be utilized for general intent crimes and acquitted Matthew Winston Brown, a 26‐year‐old male with no history of mental illness, with respect to two counts of “break and enter” and one count of “aggravated assault.” We review the social and legislative response to the changing case law as well as related implications for expert testimony, which may be provided by forensic mental health professionals. Given the judicial and legal implications of the recent changes for both perpetrators and victims of violent crime and given the dynamic international landscape on extreme intoxication in criminal law, the review is thought to be of interest to a broad category of stakeholders including policymakers and those working in forensic psychiatry and law.
Comorbid burden at ICU admission in COVID‐19 compared to sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Ahlström Björn , Frithiof Robert , Larsson Ing‐Marie , Strandberg Gunnar , Lipcsey Miklos , Hultström Michael
Published: August 2024

Background

Comorbidities are similarly associated with short‐term mortality for COVID‐19, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and sepsis in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, but their adjusted frequencies at admission are unknown. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the adjusted distribution, reported as odds ratios, of known risk factors (i.e., age, sex and comorbidities) for ICU admission between COVID‐19, sepsis and ARDS patients in this nationwide registry‐based study.

Methods

In this cohort study, we included adult patients admitted to Swedish ICUs with COVID‐19 (n = 7382) during the pandemic and compared them to patients admitted to ICU with sepsis (n = 22,354) or ARDS (n = 2776) during a pre‐COVID‐19 period. The main outcomes were the adjusted odds for comorbidities, sex, and age in multivariable logistic regression on diagnostic categories in patients admitted to ICU, COVID‐19 or sepsis and COVID‐19 or ARDS.

Results

We found that most comorbidities, as well as age, had a stronger association with sepsis admission than COVID‐19 admission with the exception of male sex, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and asthma that were more strongly associated with COVID‐19 admission, while no difference was seen for chronic renal failure and obesity. For COVID‐19 and ARDS admission most risk factors were more strongly associated with ARDS admission except for male sex, type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, and obesity which were more strongly associated with COVID‐19 admission, whereas hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma were not different.

Conclusions

Patients admitted to ICU with sepsis or ARDS carry a heavier burden of comorbidity and high age than patients admitted with COVID‐19. This is likely caused by a combination of: (1) respiratory failure in COVID‐19 being less dependent on comorbidities than in other forms of ARDS, and the cause of critical illness in other infections causing sepsis and (2) COVID‐19 patients being deferred admission in situations where patients with the other syndromes were admitted.
Efficacy and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with donafenib in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wan Tao , Gan Xueqin , Xiong Weijie
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed at ascertaining the efficacy and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) combined with donafenib versus HAIC alone in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Seventy HCC patients were enrolled for our study, and they were randomized by simple randomization using computer‐generated random numbers into two groups: control group and observation group. Regular follow‐up reviews were conducted to assess the efficacy of treatments. The levels of apoptotic factors, the levels of hepatic fibrosis indices, the levels of serum tumor vascular factors and tumor markers, and the occurrence of adverse reactions in the two groups were recorded and compared.

Results

Disease control rate, objective response rate, and progression‐free survival (PFS) of patients in the observation group were higher in contrast to the control group. After 12 weeks of treatment, lower mRNA expression of c‐mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor, telomerase, and Fas Ligand and higher mRNA expression of Fas and Caspase‐3 were observed in HCC tissues of the observation group versus the control group (p < 0.05); lower detection values of serum laminin, hyaluronic acid, collage type IV, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, and alpha‐fetal protein (AFP) were noted in HCC patients of the observation group in comparison to the control group (p < 0.05); there was no difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups.

Conclusion

Donafenib combined with HAIC in the treatment of unresectable HCC patients can notably reduce serum AFP levels, improve hepatic fibrosis, enhance short‐term efficacy, prolong PFS, and have a favorable safety profile.
The process and perils of coming around: The assimilation of political appointees into bureaucratic agencies
Authors: Alexander Dan , Stacy Darrian
Published: August 2024

The tendency for political appointees to assimilate into the bureaucratic agencies that they lead is a recurring source of tension between appointees and the executives who appoint them. This paper employs a formal model to explore how appointees come around to the views of the civil servants whom they oversee. We conceptualize a bureaucrat as providing a cheap‐talk message about privately known, policy‐relevant conditions to an appointee who uses that information to update her beliefs and set two types of policy. Though the bureaucrat's and appointee's preferences are aligned conditional on beliefs, the appointee's prior beliefs about the likelihood of various states of the world differ from the bureaucrat's. In equilibrium, truthful reporting and inducing belief convergence may be at odds and we identify when the bureaucrat will strategically choose to issue false reports. We apply the model's insights to the budget process and agency recommendations during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Population pharmacokinetic/target engagement modelling of tozorakimab in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Sadiq Muhammad Waqas , Yu Hongtao , Åstrand Magnus , Scott Ian C. , Williams Adam , Hewitt Lisa , White Nicholas , Killick Helen , Gavala Monica , Cohen E. Suzanne , Reid Fred , Kell Chris , Pandya Hitesh , Jimenez Eulalia
Published: August 2024

Aims

This study describes the pharmacokinetic (PK)/target engagement (TE) relationship of tozorakimab, an anti‐interleukin (IL)‐33 antibody, by building a mechanistic population PK/TE model using phase 1 biomarker data.

Methods

The analysis included tozorakimab PK and TE in serum assessed in 60 tozorakimab‐treated participants, including healthy adults and patients with mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Scenarios evaluated three dose frequencies (once every 2, 4 or 6 weeks) administered subcutaneously at seven doses of tozorakimab (30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 300 or 600 mg). For each dose, simulations were performed with 5000 virtual individuals to predict systemic TE. Inhibition of IL‐33/soluble ST2 (sST2) complex levels at trough PK at steady state was assessed in each dosing scenario. The PK/TE modelling analyses were performed using a nonlinear mixed‐effect modelling approach.

Results

The final two‐compartment PK model with tozorakimab binding IL‐33 in the central compartment adequately described the systemic PK and TE of tozorakimab at population and individual levels. The mean PK parameter estimates of absorption rate, central volume of distribution and clearance were 0.48 (90% confidence interval [CI]: 0.40–0.59, 1/day), 12.64 (90% CI: 8.60–18.62, L) and 0.87 (90% CI: 0.65–1.16, L/day), respectively. Consistent with the observed value, tozorakimab bioavailability was 45%. For all three dose frequencies, predicted inhibition of systemic IL‐33/sST2 levels was more than 95% at doses greater than 90 mg.

Conclusions

The PK/TE model reliably quantified the relationship between PK and systemic TE of tozorakimab, with potential utility for predicting clinical dose–response relationships and supporting clinical dose selection.
Early therapeutic drug monitoring helps to identify inflammatory bowel disease patients with a high risk to fail thiopurine treatment
Authors: Deben Debbie S. , Winkens Bjorn , van Moorsel Sofia A. W. , van Oijen Brigit P. C. , Bus Paul , Pierik Marieke J. , Simsek Melek , de Boer Nanne K. H. , Leers Mathie P. G. , Wong Dennis R. , van Bodegraven Adriaan A.
Published: August 2024

Aims

Conventional thiopurines (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) remain standard therapy to maintain steroid sparing remission in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but are regularly discontinued due to adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Measurement of the metabolites 6‐thioguanine nucleotides (6‐TGN), 6‐methylmercaptopurine ribonucleotides (6‐MMPR) and the 6‐MMPR/6‐TGN ratio, may predict the development of these ADRs. Our aim was to evaluate whether early thiopurine metabolite measurements were associated with clinical outcomes.

Methods

A post‐hoc analysis was conducted of a multicentre, prospective, observational study on thiopurine‐induced hepatotoxicity. IBD patients who initiated thiopurine therapy were included and thiopurine metabolite concentrations were assessed after 7 days (±1) (T1). Patients were monitored for 12 weeks to document the occurrence of ADRs, early treatment discontinuation and effectiveness.

Results

In total, 181 patients were evaluated. At T1, 6‐MMPR concentrations and 6‐TGN/6‐MMPR ratios were independently related to treatment discontinuation within 12 weeks after correction for sex, age and body mass index (BMI) (P = .034 and .002, respectively). The largest effects were observed for 6‐MMPR ≥3000 pmol/8 × 108 RBC and 6‐TGN/6‐MMPR ratio ≥17. Furthermore, 6‐MMPR concentrations and 6‐TGN/6‐MMPR ratios at T1 were independently related to skewed metabolism at steady state (Week 8, 6‐MMPR/‐6TGN ratio ≥11 and ≥20) (both P < .001). The occurrence of ADRs and effectiveness were not independently related to T1 thiopurine metabolite concentrations.

Conclusions

Thiopurine metabolite concentrations at T1 were related to early treatment discontinuation and skewed metabolism at steady state, but not to effectiveness, helping to identify patients with a high risk of thiopurine treatment failure.
Mechanisms of resistance to daratumumab in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Iversen Katrine Fladeland
Published: August 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable cancer in the bone marrow. The treatment of MM has developed significantly during the last 20 years, which has resulted in increased survival. Daratumumab is the first CD38 antibody approved for the treatment of MM. It has improved the treatment of MM even further. This is an evaluation of the modes of action of daratumumab and a description of the development of resistance with a focus on inhibitory checkpoint receptors on CD8+ T‐cells, complement activation and extracellular vesicles.
Long‐term outcomes of bladder‐sparing therapy vs radical cystectomy in BCG‐unresponsive non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Taylor Jacob I. , Kamat Ashish M. , O'Donnell Michael A. , Annapureddy Drupad , Howard Jeffrey , Tan Wei Shen , McElree Ian , Davaro Facundo , Yim Kendrick , Harrington Stephen , Dyer Elizabeth , Black Anna J. , Kanabur Pratik , Roumiguié Mathieu , Lerner Seth , Black Peter C. , Raman Jay D. , Preston Mark A. , Steinberg Gary , Huang William , Li Roger , Packiam Vignesh T. , Woldu Solomon L , Lotan Yair
Published: August 2024

Objective

To quantify the oncological risks of bladder‐sparing therapy (BST) in patients with Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG)‐unresponsive non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) compared to upfront radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and Methods

Pre‐specified data elements were collected from retrospective cohorts of patients with BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC from 10 international sites. After Institutional Review Board approval, patients were included if they had BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC meeting United States Food and Drug Administration criteria. Oncological outcomes were collected following upfront RC or BST. BST regimens included re‐resection or surveillance only, repeat BCG, intravesical chemotherapy, systemic immunotherapy, and clinical trials.

Results

Among 578 patients, 28% underwent upfront RC and 72% received BST. The median (interquartile range) follow‐up was 50 (20–69) months. There were no statistically significant differences in metastasis‐free survival, cancer‐specific survival, or overall survival between treatment groups. In the BST group, high‐grade recurrence rates were 37% and 52% at 12 and 24 months and progression to MIBC was observed in 7% and 13% at 12 and 24 months, respectively. RC was performed in 31.7% in the BST group and nodal disease was found in 13% compared with 4% in upfront RC (P = 0.030).

Conclusion

In a selected cohort of patients, initial BST offers comparable survival outcomes to upfront RC in the intermediate term. Rates of recurrence and progression increase over time especially in patients treated with additional lines of BST.
Practical approaches to diagnosing PitNETs/adenomas based on cell lineage
Authors: Goyal‐Honavar Abhijit , Chacko Geeta
Published: August 2024

The evolution of classification systems of pituitary adenomas (now PitNETs) has culminated in the use of transcription factor (TF) immunohistochemistry (IHC), forming a cell lineage‐based system. However, several issues remain to be addressed, including the additional financial and logistic burden of undertaking the complete array of anterior pituitary hormones and TF IHC. To that end, several groups have suggested algorithms to minimise the number of tests performed, with varying levels of diagnostic accuracy. Although the proportion of null cell tumours has decreased following the use of TFs, “multilineage” tumours have been reported and characterised using transcriptomic signatures, most prominently the PIT1‐SF1 co‐expressing PitNETs, which do not bear a position in the present system of classification. In this review, we examine the proposed practical approaches to the diagnosis of PitNETs. We review the literature on reported PitNET types that challenge the existing classification system, such as those that express multiple TFs, with their potential clinical implications. Finally, we assess limitations in the present system, such as the lack of a standardised system for IHC interpretation, that need to be addressed in the future.
Distinct brain network patterns in complete and incomplete spinal cord injury patients based on graph theory analysis
Authors: Yang Beining , Xin Haotian , Wang Ling , Qi Qunya , Wang Yu , Jia Yulong , Zheng Weimin , Sun Chuchu , Chen Xin , Du Jubao , Hu Yongsheng , Lu Jie , Chen Nan
Published: August 2024

Aims

To compare the changes in brain network topological properties and structure–function coupling in patients with complete spinal cord injury (CSCI) and incomplete spinal cord injury (ICSCI), to unveil the potential neurobiological mechanisms underlying the different effects of CSCI and ICSCI on brain networks and identify objective neurobiological markers to differentiate between CSCI and ICSCI patients.

Methods

Thirty‐five SCI patients (20 CSCI and 15 ICSCI) and 32 healthy controls (HCs) were included in the study. Here, networks were constructed using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging to analyze functional connectivity (FC) and diffusion tensor imaging for structural connectivity (SC). Then, graph theory analysis was used to examine SC and FC networks, as well as to estimate SC‐FC coupling values.

Results

Compared with HCs, CSCI patients showed increased path length (Lp), decreased global efficiency (Eg), and local efficiency (Eloc) in SC. For FC, ICSCI patients exhibited increased small‐worldness, clustering coefficient (Cp), normalized clustering coefficient, and Eloc. Also, ICSCI patients showed increased Cp and Eloc than CSCI patients. Additionally, ICSCI patients had reduced SC‐FC coupling values compared to HCs. Moreover, in CSCI patients, the SC network's Lp and Eg values were significantly correlated with motor scores, while in ICSCI patients, the FC network's Cp, Eloc, and SC‐FC coupling values were related to sensory/motor scores.

Conclusions

These results suggest that CSCI patients are characterized by decreased efficiency in the SC network, while ICSCI patients are distinguished by increased local connections and SC‐FC decoupling. Moreover, the differences in network metrics between CSCI and ICSCI patients could serve as objective biological markers, providing a basis for diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Coronary heart disease increases the risk of perioperative ischemic stroke after noncardiac surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Rui , Wang Han , Liu Siyuan , Yang Lujia , Ma Libin , Liu Fengjin , Li Yingfu , Li Peng , Shi Yizheng , Sun Miao , Song Yuxiang , Hou Wugang , Mi Weidong , Ma Yulong
Published: August 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between coronary heart disease (CHD) and the risk of perioperative ischemic stroke in patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated the incidence of ischemic stroke within 30 days after a noncardiac surgery. A cohort of 221,541 patients who underwent noncardiac surgery between January 2008 and August 2019 was segregated according to whether they were diagnosed with CHD. Primary, sensitivity, and subgroup logistic regression analyses were conducted to confirm that CHD is an independent risk factor for perioperative ischemic stroke. Propensity score matching analysis was used to account for the potential residual confounding effect of covariates.

Results

Among the 221,541 included patients undergoing noncardiac surgery, 484 patients (0.22%) experienced perioperative ischemic stroke. The risk of perioperative ischemic stroke was higher in patients with CHD (0.7%) compared to patients without CHD (0.2%), and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that CHD was associated with a significantly increased risk of perioperative ischemic stroke (odds ratio (OR), 3.7943; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.865–4.934; p < 0.001). In a subset of patients selected by propensity score matching (PSM) in which all covariates between the two groups were well balanced, the association between CHD and increased risk of perioperative ischemic stroke remained significantly significant (OR 1.8150; 95% CI, 1.254–2.619; p = 0.001). In the subgroup analysis stratified by age, preoperative β‐blockers, and fibrinogen‐to‐albumin ratio (FAR), the association between CHD and perioperative ischemic stroke was stable (p for interaction >0.05). Subgroup analyses also showed that CHD was significantly increased the risk of perioperative ischemic stroke in the preoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP) ≥94.2 mmHg subgroups (p for interaction <0.001).

Conclusion

CHD is significantly associated with an increased risk of perioperative ischemic stroke and is an independent risk factor for perioperative ischemic stroke after noncardiac surgery. Strict control of preoperative blood pressure may reduce the risk of perioperative ischemic stroke for patients with CHD undergoing noncardiac surgery.
The first surveillance report for Xylella fastidiosa in olive and stone fruit orchards in Palestine
Authors: Alabdallah Osama , Alkowni Raed , Radwan Jehad , Ghzayal Suha , Jaradat Shatella , Shubib Salameh , Jarrar Samer , Valentini Franco
Published: August 2024

Xylella fastidiosa has been identified as the causal agent of several horticultural plant diseases that have resulted in major economic and cultural heritage losses. In the last decade, X. fastidiosa emerged as a destructive phytopathogen on olive trees in the Apulia region, Italy, prompting widespread surveillance throughout the Mediterranean basin. The present paper reports monitoring efforts for X. fastidiosa in Palestine on olive for 5 years (2017–2022) and 1 year (2022) on stone fruit trees, as a result of international collaboration projects. No signs of olive quick decline syndrome were observed on olive trees in all the Palestinian olive‐growing lands. This observation was confirmed by molecular tests using LAMP technology and PCR. In addition, 500 leaf samples from stone fruit trees (almond, apricot, peach, nectarine and plum) were tested using LAMP and PCR. All of these samples were negative for X. fastidiosa, even though few of the samples from almond trees in Idna (Hebron governorate) and apricot trees in Bal'a (Tulkarm governorate) showed leaf scorch‐like symptoms. This study provides confirmation that these important horticultural crops in Palestine (olive and stone fruits) are still free of X. fastidiosa. Preventive measures and surveillance of these and other horticultural crops such as grapevine and citrus trees are strongly recommended.
TRPM7 controls skin keratinocyte senescence by targeting intracellular calcium signaling
Authors: Ma Xingjie , Qi Dandan , Sun Xiaoming , Gao Yue , Ma Jiang , Yang Jinghui , Shi Qingtong , Wei Guangfa , Li Hualing , Liu Weili , Chen Juping
Published: August 2024

Cellular senescence is described as an irreversible cell cycle arrest for proliferating cells and is associated with the secretion of senescence associated secretory phenotype factors. It has been known to accumulate with age and is regarded as a key driver of aging‐associated skin pathologies. However, the lack of markers of skin senescence and partially understood skin cellular senescence mechanisms has limited the exploration of skin aging and anti‐skin aging strategies. Recently, intracellular calcium signaling has emerged as an important regulator of cellular senescence and aging. However, little is known about the modulation of skin cellular senescence by calcium‐associated factors. Here, we found that the expression of calcium channel transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) is elevated during skin keratinocyte senescence and aging. Importantly, TRPM7 promotes skin keratinocyte senescence by triggering intracellular calcium transfer from the endoplasmic reticulum to the mitochondria; accumulation of mitochondrial calcium then induces a drop in mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species production, leading to subsequent nuclear enlargement and DNA damage. Altogether, these findings indicate that TRPM7 controls skin keratinocyte senescence through regulating intracellular calcium signaling, and thus, shed light on novel strategies for anti‐skin aging therapy.
Immunological and virological response to fostemsavir in routine US clinical care: An OPERA cohort study
Authors: Hsu Ricky K. , Brunet Laurence , Lackey Philip C. , Pierone Gerald , Levis Brooke , Fusco Jennifer S. , Henegar Cassidy , Vannappagari Vani , Clark Andrew , Fusco Gregory P.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Fostemsavir is a novel attachment inhibitor used with other antiretrovirals in heavily treatment‐experienced (HTE) adults with multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1. Real‐world immunological and virological responses were assessed in individuals starting fostemsavir in the OPERA cohort.

Methods

Among adults with HIV‐1 starting fostemsavir between 2 July 2020 and 1 September 2022, 6‐month and 12‐month changes in CD4 T‐cell count and CD4%, and maintenance/achievement of viral load (VL) <50 copies/mL were described and stratified by baseline VL (suppressed: <50 copies/mL; viraemic: ≥50 copies/mL) and CD4 count (high: ≥350 cells/μL; low: <350 cells/μL).

Results

Of 182 individuals starting fostemsavir, 64% were viraemic (34% low CD4, 30% high CD4) and 36% were suppressed (16% low CD4, 20% high CD4). The suppressed/low CD4 group had the largest median increases in CD4 count (6‐month: 30 cells/μL [interquartile range {IQR} 9–66], 12‐month: 66 cells/μL [IQR 17–125]), and CD4% (6‐month: 1.0% [IQR −0.3–2.8], 12‐month: 1.9% [IQR 1.3–3.9]). Regardless of baseline VL, those with a high baseline CD4 count experienced a greater variability in immunological response than those with low CD4 counts (12‐month standard deviation range 172–231 cells/μL vs. 69–90 cells/μL). VL <50 copies/mL was maintained in most suppressed individuals; nearly half of the viraemic/high CD4 group and a third of the viraemic/low CD4 group achieved a VL <50 copies/mL at either timepoint.

Conclusions

After 6 or 12 months of fostemsavir use, virological response was low in viraemic individuals, although most suppressed individuals did maintain suppression. While immunological response varied across individuals, virologically suppressed HTE individuals with low CD4 counts may benefit from immunological improvements with fostemsavir.
Assessment of targeted intervention programme under the National AIDS Control Program among men who have sex with men in India
Authors: Vashisht Shruti , Thakur Nishakar , Kant Shashi , Rai Sanjay , Jha Shreya
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The population of men who have sex with men (MSM) in India is vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. India instituted a targeted intervention (TI) programme to reduce this vulnerability. We aimed to measure the assessment of the TI programme for MSM.

Materials and Methods

The national Integrated Biological and Behavioural Survey (IBBS) was carried out in 2014–2015. We analysed MSM data from the IBBS and used bivariate and multivariate logistic regression to calculate the unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The use of a condom during their last sexual intercourse and consistent condom use during the previous month were considered indicators of programme effectiveness. The propensity score matching method was used to assess the effectiveness of the TI programme.

Results

The matched‐samples estimate (i.e., average treatment effect on treated) for the use of condoms during their last sexual intercourse increased by 10.0% (0.10; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08–0.12), and consistent condom use during the previous month increased by 9.0% (0.09; 95% CI 0.07–0.10) among those who had received condoms from the peer educator/outreach worker compared with those who had not received condoms.

Conclusions

The TI programme intervention among MSM was effective in reducing HIV risk behaviours, as evidenced by an increase in the use of condoms during their last sexual intercourse and consistent condom use during the last month.
Bioactive properties, phytochemicals, fatty acids, mineral contents and sensory characteristics of the breads prepared using wheat flour and nutmeg powders at different concentrations
Authors: Qasem Akram A. , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Mohammed Belal M. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Albakry Zainab
Published: August 2024

In this study, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, phytochemicals, fatty acid compositions, elements and sensory characteristics of the breads prepared using wheat flour and nutmeg powders at different concentrations were investigated. The results obtained regarding the physical and chemical properties of nutmeg breads exhibited some changes based on the nutmeg amounts added in bread production. Also, ‘L*’ results of the breads changed between 70.85 (1.0%) and 76.09 (0.5%). In addition, ‘a*’ and ‘b*’ results of breads with nutmeg powder were assigned to be between 0.47 (0.5%) and 1.93 (2.0%) to 18.44 (2.0%) and 20.42 (0.5%) and 1.93 (0.5%), respectively. Total phenol and flavonoid amounts of breads were established between 24.64 (0.5%) and 47.58 mg GAE per 100 g (2.0%) to 10.71 (control) and 177.38 mg per 100 g (2.0%), respectively. An increase in the redness value was monitored in nutmeg bread added at the rate of 1% and 2%. The amounts of phenolic constituents in the breads fluctuated depending on the added nutmeg concentrations. Gallic acid and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid values of the breads were stated to be between 2.66 (2.0%) and 6.66 mg per 100 g (1.0%) to 1.48 (2.0%) and 2.71 mg per 100 g (control), respectively. Phosphorus and potassium quantities of the breads were found between 743.60 (control) and 810.50 mg kg−1 (0.5%) to 2077.37 (1.5%) and 2345.42 mg kg−1 (0.5%), respectively. The dominant fatty acids in bread oils were myristic, palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. It can be seen that the addition of nutmeg in high concentration decreased the consumer's taste. In addition, the added nutmeg increased the colour value of the bread and corrected the textural structure.
Unravelling the nexus between structure, texture, and acoustic traits of fried chicken nuggets
Authors: Liberty Jacob Tizhe , Bhuiyan Md. Hafizur Rahman , Ngadi Michael
Published: August 2024

Texture is a multi‐parameter attribute and one of the prime quality attributes of fried products. This study explored the nexus between microstructure and texture of fried breaded chicken nuggets. Chicken nuggets were deep‐fat fried (2, 4, 6, and 8 min) in canola oil at different frying temperature (170, 180, and 190 °C). Microstructure and texture of fried samples were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and acoustic‐mechanical texture analyser, respectively. Maximum force (Fmax), number of force peaks (NFP), area under force‐deformation plots (FA), sound pressure level (SPL), number of sound peaks (AUX), and area under amplitude‐time curves (SA) were used to describe the textural parameters. Microstructural indices (porosity, number of pores, average pore area, polydispersity index, and average shape factor) were estimated from the SEM images. Results revealed that, both the frying time and temperature were positively correlated with the mechanical (Fmax: 25–55 N, NFP: 05–74 N, FA: 6500–15 000 N.sec) and acoustic (SPL: 88–97 dB, AUX: 650–810 dB, SA: 380–405 dB.sec) parameters. Frying time and temperature significantly (P < 0.05) impacted the formation of micropores in fried chicken nuggets. Crust microporosity showed strong positive correlations (r = 0.82) with the AUX value. The NFP, SPL, and SA of the fried nuggets were significantly (P < 0.05) impacted by the crust microporosity. Crust porosity (10–30%), number of pores (8–400), average pore area (10–4000 μm2), polydispersity index (0.05–0.2), and average shape factor (0.8–1.1) of fried nuggets were significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by both the frying time and temperature. Findings from this study would be useful in quality improvement and process monitoring including modelling of coated fried products.
Research progress on plant‐based glue in meat substitutes: main components, formation mechanisms, challenges, and development
Authors: Sun Luyao , Liu Shuqi , Ye Xinnan , Xu Qiaolian , Cao Jinnuo , Zeng Xiangquan , Li He , Liu Xinqi
Published: August 2024

The growing recognition of environmental conservation and human well‐being has led to a surge in the advancement of plant‐based meat. These meat alternatives are similar to animal meat products regarding texture, flavour, shape, and other characteristics. These products consist of three main components: plant tissue proteins, fat mimetics, and plant‐based glues that act as binders. Since meat substitutes are subjected to high temperatures and pressures or refrigeration, the junction between the tissue proteins and fat mimetics is prone to cracking, necessitating the development of adhesives with excellent bonding characteristics. The physicochemical properties and functional applications of plant glues are currently attracting significant research attention. Plant‐based glues are essentially gels derived from substances such as proteins, polysaccharides, or various compounds. This article summarised the basic principles of gel formation, focusing on acid‐, salt‐, heat‐, and enzyme‐induced gel formation pathways, as well as the role of pH adjustment and enzyme or salt ion addition in improving their functional properties. Optimal conditions can enhance the adhesive properties of plant‐based glues. This article reviewed the types, gelation mechanisms, influencing factors, and challenges of plant‐based glues to provide a theoretical basis for research on their application potential.
Benign intracranial hypertension in chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Guymer Robyn H , Cairns James D , O'Day Justin
Published: August 2024

We present a patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) who had marked bilateral disc swelling as part of his initial presentation. This occurred in the setting of raised intracranial pressure (ICP), with normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) composition and cell content, and normal neuroimaging. We discuss the possible mechanisms which could lead to disc swelling in CML and conclude that the raised ICP and subsequent papilledema in our patient were the result of poor absorption of CSF into the dural venous sinuses. We propose that the very high white cell count (WCC) led to a hyperviscosity state which resulted in poor absorption of CSF and in so doing, created a clinical picture of benign intracranial hypertension (BIH).
Integrating group awareness into team‐based learning
Authors: Lin Jian‐Wei , Chen Hong‐Ren
Published: August 2024

Background

Team‐based learning (TBL) is a widely recognised pedagogical strategy used in diverse fields and courses. Despite the success of TBL, certain concerns have arisen regarding social loafing within group collaboration contexts; this loafing can reduce the overall effectiveness of learning.

Objectives

This study addressed the aforementioned concerns by integrating group awareness (GA) information into each stage of TBL, resulting in a TBL + GA system designed to enhance TBL instruction. During online collaborative learning, GA information provides insights into the activities completed by peers and thus the peers' preparedness and achievement; this knowledge fosters motivation, participation, and reflection.

Methods

A quasiexperiment was performed with students from two freshman classes (40 and 41 students, respectively) in a Taiwanese university; the control and experimental classes used the TBL only and TBL + GA systems, respectively. Student learning effort was evaluated in terms of preclass preparation, including the use of learning materials and online test scores. Learning achievement was evaluated by assessing the quality of students' assignments. Student feedback, including peer evaluations and students' perceptions of their TBL experience, was collected and compared for the two classes.

Results and Conclusions

The TBL + GA system significantly enhanced the preclass preparation efforts of the participants, mitigating social loafing. This improvement manifested as higher practice engagement and better online assessment scores. The TBL + GA system also improved assignment quality and elicited more constructive and positive peer feedback.

Implications

Integrating GA information into each stage of TBL may positively affect the effectiveness of instruction. The proposed TBL + GA system can serve as a practical model for instructors seeking to enhance TBL implementation and foster a more engaging and constructive learning environment.
A tribute to Arne Schousboe's contributions to neurochemistry and his innovative and enduring research in GABA, glutamate, and brain energy metabolism
Authors: McKenna Mary C. , Sonnewald Ursula , Waageptersen Helle S. , White H. Steve
Published: August 2024

This is a tribute to Arne Schousboe, Professor Emeritus at the University of Copenhagen, an eminent neurochemist and neuroscientist who was a leader in the fields of GABA, glutamate, and brain energy metabolism. Arne was known for his keen intellect, his wide‐ranging expertise in neurochemistry and neuropharmacology of GABA and glutamate and brain energy metabolism. Arne was also known for his strong leadership, his warm and engaging personality and his enjoyment of fine wine and great food shared with friends, family, and colleagues. Sadly, Arne passed away on February 27, 2024, after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Inger Schousboe, his two children, and three wonderful grandchildren. His death is a tremendous loss to the neuroscience community. He will be greatly missed by his friends, family, and colleagues. Some of the highlights of Arne's career are described in this tribute.

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Currency Management by International Fixed‐Income Mutual Funds
Authors: SIALM CLEMENS , ZHU QIFEI
Published: August 2024

Investments in international fixed‐income securities are exposed to significant currency risks. We collect novel data on currency derivatives used by U.S. international fixed‐income funds. We document that while 90% of funds use currency forwards, they hedge, on average, only 18% of their currency exposure. Funds' currency forward positions differ substantially based on risk management demands related to portfolio currency exposure, return‐enhancement motives such as currency momentum and carry trade, and strategic considerations related to past performance and fund clientele. Funds that hedge their currency risk exhibit lower return variability, but do not generate inferior abnormal returns.
Out‐of‐area home purchase and U.S. internal migration
Authors: Li Minghao , Liu Pengfei , Tang Chuan
Published: August 2024

This study demonstrates that out‐of‐area (OOA) property transactions can serve as a proxy for migration. Using micro‐level transaction data, we document that about 35% of migrants make OOA property purchases. The goodness‐of‐fit between migration and OOA purchases is higher for aggregate migration measures and lower for migration flows between disaggregated areas. Furthermore, in most specifications, a one percent increase in OOA purchases is associated with an approximately one percent increase in migration. We characterize the monthly out‐migration from NYC zip codes to surrounding areas after the outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic to demonstrate the high temporal and spatial resolution of OOA transaction data.
Inclusion and protection in tension: Reflections on gathering sexual orientation and gender identity data in the workplace
Authors: van der Toorn Jojanneke , Bracco Sofia E. , Gaitho Waruguru , Ryan William S. , Horne Sharon G. , Anderson Joel R. , Leskinen Emily A.
Published: August 2024

This article addresses the complex issue of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data collection in workplaces, highlighting the intricate balance between fostering inclusion and mitigating potential harm and exclusion. This tension manifests uniquely across diverse cultural, legal, and organizational settings. We review existing literature, offer practical guidance for decision‐makers, and outline future research avenues. While SOGI data collection in workplaces can enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and elevate the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ+) employees, challenges include the risk of discrimination, privacy concerns, and linguistic complexities. To address these, researchers and practitioners must consider the purpose, language, and cultural context of data collection, involving LGBTIQ+ stakeholders, and conducting reconnaissance studies. Future research opportunities lie in understanding employee willingness to share SOGI data, motivations of human resource (HR) and DEI professionals, and the impact on organizational culture. Reimagining LGBTIQ+ research to ease the tension between inclusion and protection, we conclude that responsible SOGI data collection demands a nuanced approach that prioritizes inclusion and equity while addressing privacy concerns and potential harm.
The association between histopathological growth patterns with tumor budding and poorly differentiated clusters in colorectal liver metastasis treated with preoperative systemic therapy
Authors: Laohawetwanit Thiyaphat , Apornvirat Sompon , Kantasiripitak Charinee
Published: August 2024

The liver's unique cellular structure makes it a frequent site for metastatic cancer. In colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM), surgical resection is essential for long‐term survival. Histopathological growth patterns (HGPs) in CRLM, including desmoplastic and nondesmoplastic patterns, provide critical prognostic information. Tumor budding (TB) and poorly differentiated clusters (PDCs), indicators of aggressive cancer behavior, are evaluated using standardized histological scoring systems and are linked to epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. This study explored the correlation between HGPs, TB, and PDCs in CRLM. Archived data from Thammasat University Hospital, including resected CRLM specimens, were analyzed. This study evaluated 51 CRLM resection specimens treated with preoperative systemic therapy, finding most to be nondesmoplastic with low TB and grade 1 PDC. Desmoplastic growth was significantly more prevalent in cases receiving preoperative chemotherapy than those that did not. Higher 3‐year mortality was noted in nondesmoplastic groups and those with higher TB and tumor regression grade (TRG) scores. Significant correlations were observed between HGPs, TB, and PDCs, despite challenges in assessing these parameters due to issues with noncancer cells, extracellular mucin, bile ductular proliferation, and retraction artifacts. This study underscores the prognostic significance of HGPs, TB, PDCs, and TRG scores in CRLM, highlighting the need for precise histopathological evaluation for more accurate prognostic implications.
The sample is not the population
Authors: Allison J. S. , Santana L. , Visagie I. J. H.
Published: August 2024

Given sample data, how do you calculate the value of a parameter? While this question is impossible to answer, it is frequently encountered in statistics classes when students are introduced to the distinction between a sample and a population (or between a statistic and a parameter). It is not uncommon for teachers of statistics to also confuse these concepts. An excerpt of a national mathematics examination paper, where a sample is mistaken for the population, is used to illustrate this confusion as well as sample variation and its link to sample size. We discuss two techniques that can be used to explain the difference between a parameter and a statistic. The first is a visual technique in which the variability in calculated statistics is contrasted to the fixed value of the corresponding parameter. Thereafter, we discuss Monte Carlo simulation techniques and explain the contribution that these methods may have.
Computed tomographic features of suspected arterial pseudoaneurysm in the head and neck of four dogs
Authors: Ramalho Goncalo N. V. , Dennison‐Gibby Sophie , Dancer Sumari , Blacklock Kelly , Cherbinsky Ofer , Schechter Aaron , Schwarz Tobias
Published: August 2024

Computed tomography is a valuable diagnostic technique in the clinical work‐up of dogs with oropharyngeal trauma and bleeding. Traumatic extravasation can manifest as a pseudoaneurysm. A pseudoaneurysm is an extraluminal accumulation of blood that is contained by the adventitia layer or neighboring tissues. The purpose of this retrospective, multicenter, observational case series study was to describe the CT features in dogs with presumed oropharyngeal arterial pseudoaneurysm and its potential association with trauma. Imaging archives were searched for canine patients with head and neck CT studies showing visible extravasation of contrast‐enhanced blood contained by soft tissue structures. Medical records of these patients were reviewed for oropharyngeal bleeding or trauma and reported. Four dogs met the inclusion criteria. CT findings included a well‐defined, confined area of vascular contrast enhancement adjacent to the common carotid artery or its branches. The mean contrast enhancement in the corresponding artery and pseudoaneurysm lesion was similar, suggesting that these lesions represent active arterial extravasation. Four‐dimensional CT was performed in one case and demonstrated contrast medium leaking from an artery and being contained by adjacent soft tissue structures. All dogs had a history and imaging findings consistent with oropharyngeal bleeding and trauma. Arterial pseudoaneurysm should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs with oral trauma and CT features of a well‐defined, periarterial, strongly contrast‐enhancing lesion.
Dynamics Modeling and Analysis of Small-Diameter Pipeline Inspection Gauge During Passing Through Elbow
Authors: Chen Minghao , Liu Haotian , Zhang Xiaoying , Wen Chengwei , Zhang Hang
Published: August 2024

With small diameters, numerous elbows, and complex internal environment, gathering and transportation pipelines are widely applied in the oil and gas pipeline network. To guarantee their safety, the pipeline inspection gauge (PIG) driven by the pressure differential is used. When the PIG collides with the elbows in the pipeline, it exhibits complex nonlinear dynamic behaviors and its reliability and stability may also be greatly affected. To study the vibration response characteristics passing through the elbow, the dynamic modeling of the small-diameter PIG is conducted first in this paper based on the ADAMS software. Then, the fluid–structure coupling is realized by combining the dynamic model and the numerical calculation program of the fluid equation in Simulink. The simulation results indicate that the axial and swing acceleration of the two sections increase as the speed of the double-section PIG increases, while the vertical acceleration decreases. In comparison, it is found that the acceleration response of the second section is often larger than that of the first section. The results also reveal that the axial offset of the PIG at the elbow is inversely proportional to the speed and radius of the elbow, which is the fundamental reason for the lift-off values of sensors.
Investigation of Metal-H2O Systems at Elevated Temperatures: Part II. SnO2(s) Solubility Data and New Sn Pourbaix Diagrams at 298.15 K and 358.15 K
Authors: Palazhchenko Olga Y. , Kaye Matthew H.
Published: August 2024

The Zircaloy alloy system (1.2–1.7 wt.% Sn) provides an excellent basis to study the effect of temperature on Pourbaix diagrams, as Zircaloy fuel rods in a CANadian Deuterium UraniumTM (CANDU) reactor are exposed to an aqueous phase coolant in the range 250 °C (523.15 K) to 310 °C (583.15 K). In addition to its presence in Zircaloy, much of the thermochemical data for tin, particularly for the aqueous species, is unavailable or uncorroborated. This paper presents tin Pourbaix diagrams at 85 °C (358.15 K) alongside the reconstructed 25 °C (298.15 K) diagram. Solid-aqueous phase SnO2 equilibria were used to determine thermochemical data for tin +IV species in a batch vessel with in situ pH measurement. Solubilities were used to calculate the Gibbs energies of Sn complexes. The SnOH3+ and Sn(OH)5− species were incorporated into the 25 °C and 85 °C diagrams.