bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of thyroid nodule and relationship with physiological and psychosocial factors among adults in Zhejiang Province, China: a baseline survey of a cohort study
Authors: Li Xueqing , Chen Zhijian , Wu Lizhi , Tu Pengchen , Mo Zhe , Xing Mingluan
Published: July 2024

Background

Thyroid nodules have attracted much attention due to their high incidence and potential for malignant transformation. Compared with the clinical assessment and diagnosis of thyroid nodules, there are relatively few studies on the epidemiological risk factors for thyroid nodules. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of thyroid nodule among adults in Zhejiang province and to explore their relationship with physiological and psychosocial factors.

Methods

The data used in this study were obtained from the baseline survey of the Zhejiang Provincial Cohort Study on Environment and Health. From June 2022 to December 2023, a total of 21,712 participants from five representative cities in Zhejiang were recruited for the baseline survey. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15,595 adults were included in the analysis. The data were collected via self-report questionnaires and physical examinations. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was subsequently performed.

Results

The detection rate of thyroid nodules was 50.98% among adults in Zhejiang province. Age, gender, education level, BMI, tea and alcohol consumption all had a statistically significant association with thyroid nodules (p < 0.05). After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, results of logistic regression analysis showed that good life satisfaction (OR = 0.854, 95% CI: 0.780–0.934) had a lower risk of thyroid nodules, however, poor life satisfaction (OR = 1.406, 95% CI: 1.014–1.951), social isolation (OR = 1.294, 95% CI: 1.089–1.538) and a family history of thyroid nodules (OR = 1.334, 95% CI: 1.064–1.672) had a greater risk of thyroid nodules.

Conclusion

The detection rate of thyroid nodules in adults of Zhejiang province was an increasing trend compared with that in previous years. In addition to the sensitive thyroid nodule screening technology, influencing factors mentioned in this study might also represent credible candidates for this increase. As variable influence factors, weight management, good interpersonal relationships and life satisfaction should be the focus of health interventions.
Biomechanical evaluation of different medial column fixation patterns for valgus pilon fractures
Authors: Wang Bing-Hao , Zhang Bin-Bin , Gong Zi-Ling , Mei Jiong , Luo Cong-Feng , Zhu Yi
Published: July 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to perform a biomechanical analysis to compare different medial column fixation patterns for valgus pilon fractures in a case-based model.

Methods

Based on the fracture mapping, 48 valgus pilon fracture models were produced and assigned into four groups with different medial column fixation patterns: no fixation (NF), K-wires (KW), intramedullary screws (IS), and locking compression plate (LCP). Each group contained wedge-in and wedge-out subgroups. After fixing each specimen on the machine, gradually increased axial compressive loads were applied with a load speed of one millimeter per minute. The maximum peak force was set at 1500 N. Load-displacement curves were generated and the axial stiffness was calculated. Five different loads of 200 N, 400 N, 600 N, 800 N, 1000 N were selected for analysis. The specimen failure was defined as resultant loading displacement over 3 mm.

Results

For the wedge-out models, Group-IS showed less displacement (p < 0.001), higher axial stiffness (p < 0.01), and higher load to failure (p < 0.001) than Group-NF. Group-KW showed comparable displacement under loads of 200 N, 400 N and 600 N with both Group-IS and Group-LCP. For the wedge-in models, no statistical differences in displacement, axial stiffness, or load to failure were observed among the four groups. Overall, wedge-out models exhibited less axial stiffness than wedge-in models (all p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Functional reduction with stable fixation of the medial column is essential for the biomechanical stability of valgus pilon fractures and medial column fixation provides the enough biomechanical stability for this kind of fracture in the combination of anterolateral fixation. In detail, the K-wires can provide a provisional stability at an early stage. Intramedullary screws are strong enough to provide the medial column stability as a definitive fixation. In future, this technique can be recommended for medial column fixation as a complement for holistic stability in high-energy valgus pilon fractures.
Self-care practice and associated factors among patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital, Sidama, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kobamo Mehreteab Million , Bekele Fanuel Belayneh , Simachew Yilkal , Abebe Mahlet Tesfaye , Abore Kibruyisfaw Weldeab
Published: July 2024

Background

Self-care practice is an integral and efficient part of comprehensive diabetes management, which could be influenced by various socio-demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors.

Objective

The study aimed to assess the level of diabetes self-care practice and its associated factors among patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital, Yirgalem, Sidama, Ethiopia.

Methodology

An Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 15 to May 10, 2022, involving 298 patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital. A pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized to collect data from patients. A descriptive analysis was conducted to determine the level of good self-care practice. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistics regression were performed to determine factors associated with good diabetic self-care practice. Associations with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Result

The overall good diabetic self-care practice among patients was 59.4%. Regarding the specific domains of care, 15 (5%) participants had good self-glucose monitoring care, 228 (76.5%) had good exercise self-care, 268 (89.9%) had good dietary self-care, 228 (76.5%) had good foot self-care, and 260 (87.2%) had good diabetic medication adherence. Single marital status (AOR = 5.7, 95% CI: (1.418, 22.915), urban residence (AOR = 2.992, 95% CI: (1.251, 7.153)), and having a glucometer (AOR = 2.273, 95% CI: (1.083, 4.772)) were factors that were significantly associated with good diabetic self-care practice.

Conclusion

Good diabetic self-care practices among participants was low. Marital status, place of residence, and having a glucometer were statistically significant predictors of good diabetic self-care practices. Targeted intervention addressing those patients from rural areas to increase awareness and practice of self-care, as well as the promotion of having a glucometer at home for self-glucose monitoring is recommended.
Can the sustainable development goal 9 support an untreated early childhood caries elimination agenda?
Authors: Foláyan Morẹ́nikẹ́ Oluwátóyìn , Amalia Rosa , Kemoli Arthur , Sun Ivy Guofang , Duangthip Duangporn , Abodunrin Olunike , Virtanen Jorma I. , Masumo Ray M. , Vukovic Ana , Al-Batayneh Ola B. , Mfolo Tshepiso , Schroth Robert J. , El Tantawi Maha
Published: July 2024

Background

Early childhood caries (ECC) is a global public health challenge that requires innovation, infrastructure, and health system influences to bolster initiatives for its management and control. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate the published evidence on the association between ECC and the targets of the Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG9) concerned with industry, innovation, and infrastructure development.

Methods

The scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus between July and August 2023 using a search strategy related to the promotion of resilient infrastructure, sustainable industries, scientific research and innovation, access to the internet and ECC. Only English language publications were included. Studies that solely examined ECC without reference to the SDG9 targets were excluded.

Results

The search yielded 933 studies for review. After screening for the eligibility and removing duplicates, 916 unique articles remained for further screening. However, none of the identified studies provided data on the association between resilient infrastructure, sustainable industries, scientific research and innovation, access to the internet and ECC.

Conclusion

There were no primary studies that assessed the association between ECC and SDG9, even though the plausibility of a potential relationship exists. Future studies are needed to generate evidence on the link between ECC and SDG9 as this link may contribute to the reduction in the proportion of children with untreated ECC.
Isolation and anti-neuroinflammation activity of sesquiterpenoids from Artemisia argyi: computational simulation and experimental verification
Authors: La Caiwenjie , Li Menghe , Wang Zexu , Liu Tao , Zeng Qiongzhen , Sun Pinghua , Ren Zhe , Ye Cuifang , Liu Qiuying , Wang Yifei
Published: July 2024

Background

Artemisia argyi is a traditional herbal medicine belonging to the genus Artemisia that plays an important role in suppressing inflammation. However, the chemical constituents and underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic potential in neuroinflammation are still incompletely understood, and warrant further investigation.

Methods

Several column chromatography were employed to isolate and purify chemical constituents from Artemisia argyi, and modern spectroscopy techniques were used to elucidate their chemical structures. The screening of monomeric compounds with nitric oxide inhibition led to the identification of the most effective bioactive compound, which was subsequently confirmed for its anti-inflammatory capability through qRT‒PCR. Predictions of compound-target interactions were made using the PharmMapper webserver and the TargetNet database, and an integrative protein-protein interaction network was constructed by intersecting the predicted targets with neuroinflammation-related targets. Topological analysis was performed to identify core targets, and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were utilized to validate the findings. The result of the molecular simulations was experimentally validated through drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) and Western blot experiments.

Results

Seventeen sesquiterpenoids, including fifteen known sesquiterpenoids and two newly discovered guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids (argyinolide S and argyinolide T) were isolated from Artemisia argyi. Bioactivity screening revealed that argyinolide S (AS) possessed the most potent anti-inflammatory activity. However, argyinolide T (AT) showed weak anti-inflammatory activity, so AS was the target compound for further study. AS may regulate neuroinflammation through its modulation of eleven core targets: protein kinase B 1 (AKT1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein Kinase (FYN), Janus Kinase (JAK) 1, mitogen-activated protein (MAP) Kinase 1,8 and 14, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (RAC1), nuclear factor kappa-B p65 (RELA), and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRA). Molecular dynamics simulations and DARTS experiments confirmed the stable binding of AS to JAK1, and Western blot experiments demonstrated the ability of AS to inhibit the phosphorylation of downstream Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) mediated by JAK1.

Conclusions

The sesquiterpenoid compounds isolated from Artemisia argyi, exhibit significant inhibitory effects on inflammation in C57BL/6 murine microglia cells (BV-2). Among these compounds, AS, a newly discovered guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid in Artemisia argyi, has been demonstrated to effectively inhibit the occurrence of neuroinflammation by targeting JAK1.
Wealth-based disparities in the prevalence of short birth interval in India: insights from NFHS-5
Authors: Singh Aditya , Singh Anshika , Chakrabarty Mahashweta , Singh Shivani , Tripathi Pooja
Published: July 2024

Background

Short birth interval (SBI) has profound implications for the health of both mothers and children, yet there remains a notable dearth of studies addressing wealth-based inequality in SBI and its associated factors in India. This study aims to address this gap by investigating wealth-based disparities in SBI and identifying the underlying factors associated with SBI in India.

Methods

We used information on 109,439 women of reproductive age (15–49 years) from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (2019-21). We assessed wealth-based inequality in SBI for India and its states using the Erreygers Normalised Concentration Index (ECI). Additionally, we used a multilevel binary logistic regression to assess the factors associated with SBI in India.

Results

In India, the prevalence of SBI was 47.8% [95% CI: 47.4, 48.3] during 2019-21, with significant variation across states. Bihar reported the highest prevalence of SBI at 61.2%, while Sikkim the lowest at 18.1%. SBI prevalence was higher among poorer mothers compared to richer ones (Richest: 33.8% vs. Poorest: 52.9%). This wealth-based inequality was visible in the ECI as well (ECI= -0.13, p < 0.001). However, ECI varied considerably across the states. Gujarat, Punjab, and Manipur exhibited the highest levels of wealth-based inequality (ECI= -0.28, p < 0.001), whereas Kerala showed minimal wealth-based inequality (ECI= -0.01, p = 0.643). Multilevel logistic regression analysis identified several factors associated with SBI. Mothers aged 15–24 (OR: 12.01, p < 0.001) and 25–34 (2.92, < 0.001) were more likely to experience SBI. Women who married after age 25 (3.17, < 0.001) and those belonging to Scheduled Caste (1.18, < 0.001), Scheduled Tribes (1.14, < 0.001), and Other Backward Classes (1.12, < 0.001) also had higher odds of SBI. Additionally, the odds of SBI were higher among mothers in the poorest (1.97, < 0.001), poorer (1.73, < 0.001), middle (1.62, < 0.001), and richer (1.39, < 0.001) quintiles compared to the richest quintile. Women whose last child had passed away were also significantly more likely to have SBI (2.35, < 0.001). Furthermore, mothers from communities with lower average schooling levels (1.18, < 0.001) were more likely to have SBI. Geographically, mothers from eastern (0.67, < 0.001) and northeastern (0.44, < 0.001) regions of India were less likely to have SBI.

Conclusion

The significant wealth-based inequality in SBI in India highlights the need for targeted interventions focusing on economically disadvantaged women, particularly in states with high SBI prevalence. Special attention should be given to younger mothers and those from socially disadvantaged groups to enhance maternal and child health outcomes across the country.
Mesomelia-synostoses syndrome: contiguous deletion syndrome, SULF1 haploinsufficiency or enhancer adoption?
Authors: Bendas Feres Lima Ingrid , Fátima Marques de Moraes Lúcia de , Roberto da Fonseca Carlos , Clinton Llerena Junior Juan , Mehrjouy Mana , Tommerup Niels , Ferreira Bastos Elenice
Published: July 2024

Background

Mesomelia-Synostoses Syndrome (MSS)(OMIM 600,383) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by mesomelic limb shortening, acral synostoses and multiple congenital malformations which is described as a contiguous deletion syndrome involving the two genes SULF1 and SLCO5A1. The study of apparently balanced chromosomal rearrangements (BCRs) is a cytogenetic strategy used to identify candidate genes associated with Mendelian diseases or abnormal phenotypes. With the improved development of genomic technologies, new methods refine this search, allowing better delineation of breakpoints as well as more accurate genotype-phenotype correlation.

Case presentation

We present a boy with a global development deficit, delayed speech development and an ASD (Asperger) family history, with an apparently balanced “de novo” reciprocal translocation [t(1;8)(p32.2;q13)dn]. The cytogenetic molecular study identified a likely pathogenic deletion of 21 kb in the 15q12 region, while mate pair sequencing identified gene-truncations at both the 1p32.2 and 8q13 translocation breakpoints.

Conclusions

The identification of a pathogenic alteration on 15q12 involving GABRA5 was likely the main cause of the ASD-phenotype. Importantly, the chr8 translocation breakpoint truncating SLCO5A1 exclude SLCO5A1 as a candidate for MSS, leaving SULF1 as the primary candidate. However, the deletions observed in MSS remove a topological associated domain (TAD) boundary separating SULF1 and SLCO5A1. Hence, Mesomelia-Synostoses syndrome is either caused by haploinsufficiency of SULF1 or ectopic enhancer effects where skeletal/chrondrogenic SULF1 enhancers drive excopic expression of developmental genes in adjacent TADs including PRDM14, NCOA2 and/or EYA1.
A phase III randomized clinical trial comparing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy based on open state with abdominal radical hysterectomy in patients with early-stage cervical cancer
Authors: Zhao Xin , Liu Yansong , Niu Jumin , Shi Yulin
Published: July 2024

Background

Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women, The standard treatment recommendation for women with early cervical cancer is radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection, however, articles published in recent years have concluded that the treatment outcome of laparoscopic surgery for cervical cancer is inferior to that of open surgery. Thus, we choose a surgically new approach; the laparoscopic cervical cancer surgery in the open state is compared with the traditional open cervical cancer surgery, and we hope that patients can still have a good tumor outcome and survival outcome. This trial will investigate the effectiveness of laparoscopic cervical cancer surgery in the open-state treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

Method and design

This will be an open-label, 2-armed, randomized, phase-III single-center trial of comparing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy based on open state with abdominal radical hysterectomy in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. A total of 740 participants will be randomly assigned into 2 treatment arms in a 1:1 ratio. Clinical, laboratory, ultrasound, and radiology data will be collected at baseline, and then at the study assessments and procedures performed at baseline and 1 week, 6 weeks, and 3 months, and follow-up visits begin at 3 months following surgery and continue every 3 months thereafter for the first 2 years and every 6 months until year 4.5. The primary aim is the rate of disease-free survival at 4.5 years. The secondary aims include treatment-related morbidity, costs and cost-effectiveness, patterns of recurrence, quality of life, pelvic floor function, and overall survival.

Conclusions

This prospective trial aims to show the equivalence of the laparoscopic cervical cancer surgery in the open state versus the transabdominal radical hysterectomy approach for patients with early-stage cervical cancer following a 2-phase protocol.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2300075118. Registered on August 25, 2023.
Congenital anomalies in pregnancies with overt and pregestational type 2 diabetes: a gray portrayal from a cohort in Brazil
Authors: Campos Maria Amélia A , Oppermann Maria Lúcia R , Sanseverino Maria Teresa V , Guerra Giulia L , Hirakata Vânia N , Reichelt Angela J
Published: July 2024

Objective

To describe the frequency and types of congenital anomalies and associated risk factors in Brazilian women with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study between 2005 and 2021, we included all pregnant participants with type 2 diabetes from the two major public hospitals in southern Brazil. We collected data from the electronic hospital records. Congenital anomalies were classified by the 10th revised International Classification of Diseases, Q chapter, enhanced by the EUROCAT registry classification, and categorized by type and gravity. We used multiple Poisson regression with robust estimates to estimate risks.

Results

Among 648 participants, we excluded 19, and 62 were lost to follow-up; therefore, we included 567 participants. Overt diabetes arose in 191 participants (33.7%, 95% CI 30.0% – 38.0%). Less than 20% of the participants supplemented folate. Congenital anomalies occurred in 78 neonates (13.8%, CI 11.0 − 16.9%), 73 babies (93.6%) presented major anomalies, and 20 (10.5%) cases occurred in participants with overt diabetes. Cardiac anomalies were the most frequent (43 isolated and 12 combined). Pre-eclampsia was associated with an increased risk in the analyses including all women (adjusted RR 1.87 (95% CI 1.23–2.85), p = 0.003), but not in analyses including only women with an HbA1c measured up to the 14th gestational age. HbA1c, either measured at any time in pregnancy (adjusted RR 1.21 (95% CI 1.10–1.33), p < 0.001) or up to the first 14 weeks (adjusted RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.10–1.35, p < 0.001) was the only sustained risk factor. Risk factors such as maternal age, obesity, diabetes diagnosis, or use of antidiabetic medications were not associated with congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

We found a high frequency of congenital anomalies associated with poor maternal glycemic control and revealed an almost universal lack of preconception care. An urgent call to action is mandatory for the reversal of this gray scenario.
Tribological and microstructural characteristics of Al2O3–LM6 semi-solid cast composite synthesized by dual mixed slurry process
Authors: Soni Bal Govind , Agarwal Mayank
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this work is to analyze the impact of reinforced Al2O3–LM6 aluminum composite made with dual mixed slurry for semi-solid casting with stirring, which is documented according to microstructure and wear properties. Under dry sliding pin-on-disk conditions, the composition and surface morphology of worn surfaces were carefully examined for the 10 N applied force, 1.2 m/s sliding speed, and sliding distances up to 750 m. Experimental findings indicate that Al2O3 reinforcement with semi-solid dual slurry effects give outstanding resistance against the adhesive wear. Microstructure, EDS, and XRD results from worn surface evaluation all show evidence of protective layers, which helps explain the reason for the rate of wear decreased due to processing. In this experiment, LM6 serves as the matrix material and Al2O3 as reinforcement. Al2O3–LM6 semi-solid cast composite was created via a dual mixed slurry technique with temperature control close to the solidus line for varying compositions. This work reports a substantial relationship between metallurgical and mechanical parameters. Mechanical properties and wear characteristics have been investigated.
An end-to-end workflow to study newly synthesized mRNA following rapid protein depletion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ridenour John B. , Donczew Rafal
Published: July 2024

Background

Gene transcription by RNA polymerase II is a fundamental process in eukaryotic cells. The precise regulation of transcription is necessary for cellular growth and development and requires the coordinated activity of numerous proteins and protein complexes. Although significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms that regulate transcription, many questions remain unresolved. Accurately defining the direct effects of transcriptional regulators is critical to addressing these questions. An effective approach for identifying the direct targets of transcriptional regulators is combining rapid protein depletion and quantification of newly synthesized RNA. The auxin-inducible degron (AID) system and thiol (SH)-linked alkylation for the metabolic sequencing of RNA (SLAM-seq) are powerful methods to rapidly degrade a target protein and directly quantify newly synthesized RNA, respectively. Both methods have been widely applied to study transcriptional regulation. To address unresolved questions in transcription, we assembled an end-to-end workflow to deplete proteins of interest using the AID system and measure newly synthesized RNA using SLAM-seq in the model eukaryote, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Methods

We provide an open-source, step-by-step protocol to support the rapid implementation of this workflow. We include methods for targeted protein degradation, 4-thiouracil (4tU) incorporation, rapid methanol fixation, RNA purification, RNA alkylation, 3´ mRNA-seq library construction, and data analysis. Additionally, we demonstrate that this workflow can help define the direct effects of transcriptional regulators using the bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins, Bdf1 and Bdf2, as an example.

Discussion

We demonstrate that data generated using this workflow effectively quantifies 4tU-labeled transcripts and is robust to normalization using whole-cell spike-in or, at least in the case of Bdf1 and Bdf2 depletion, total read counts. We additionally demonstrate that this data correlates well with 4tU-seq data and identifies extensive differential expression due to the depletion of Bdf1 and Bdf2. Lastly, the workflow is modular and readily adaptable to other systems. Taken together, this workflow and supporting protocol will help address outstanding questions underlying the molecular basis of transcriptional regulation and other processes in S. cerevisiae and other eukaryotes.
Hematologic Malignancies Influence the Accuracy of Prediction of Survival in Patients With Solid Tumor Spinal Metastases Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Chanplakorn Pongsthorn , Budsayavilaimas Chanthong , Jaipanya Pilan , Pichyangkul Picharn , Siriyotha Sukanya , Lertudomphonwanit Thamrong
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

There is no consensus on how to identify patients with multiple-level spinal metastases who would benefit from surgery. Previous studies have revealed that patients with hematologic malignancies have a significantly longer median survival time than those with solid tumor spinal metastases. We aimed to compare predictors and survival data between patients with spinal metastases, including hematologic malignancies (all-malignancies group), with only those with nonhematologic malignancies (nonhematologic malignancies group).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-center retrospective study included all patients age >18 years who underwent surgery to treat spinal metastases in our department from 2008 to 2018. The patients' baseline characteristics, treatment modalities, and laboratory results were analyzed. Survival was calculated from the date of surgery to the date of confirmed death. Cox regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of survival.

RESULTS

The study cohort comprised 186 patients with a mean age of 57.1 ± 13.4 years, 101 of whom were male and 18 of whom had hematologic malignancies. The median survival time was 201 days in the all-malignancies group and 168 days in the nonhematologic malignancies group. Independent predictors of survival differed between the two groups. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status and response to preoperative chemotherapy were identified as independent factors in both groups. However, radiosensitivity and CNS metastases were identified only in the all-malignancies group, and tumor growth potential, albumin status, and number of vertebrae were identified only in the nonhematologic malignancies group. The receiver operating characteristics were comparable in the two groups: 0.75 in the all-malignancies group and 0.77 in the nonhematologic malignancies group.

CONCLUSION

Longer survival in patients with hematologic malignancies influences the overall prediction of survival. Tumor-specific prognostic factors may improve the prediction of survival in patients with spinal metastases.
Dynamics of Long-Term Quality of Life After Treatment for Esophageal Cancer: A Community-Based Patient Study
Authors: Chen Lei , Wang Hui , Qi Zifan , Liang Linlin , Guo Chuanhai , He Yu , Liu Mengfei , Liu Zhen , Pan Yaqi , Liu Fangfang , Liu Ying , Hu Zhe , Chen Huanyu , He Zhonghu , Ke Yang
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

To characterize the pattern of post-treatment quality of life (QoL) for esophageal cancer (EC) survivors and construct models predicting their long-term QoL.

METHODS

On the basis of a randomized trial in an EC high-risk region in China, we interviewed 363 EC survivors and 25,245 permanent residents matched with the survivors on age, sex, and township as the baseline. QoL was measured using three-level version of European Quality of Life 5-Dimensions instrument. We constructed piecewise mixed models estimating the QoL of EC survivors that varied by age, sex, patient type, hospital level, and therapy to ascertain QoL determinants.

RESULTS

The post-treatment QoL of EC survivors dropped by 15.7% within the first year and recovered by 9.3% between 1 and 9 years compared with the baseline. Therapy was found to be a determinant of QoL, and a series of therapy-specific models were fitted accordingly, which all showed the pattern of decreasing rapidly and recovering gradually. Endoscopic treatment had the least impact on post-treatment QoL (7.5% drop within 5 years) compared with esophagectomy (12.2% drop within 1 year) and chemoradiotherapy (37.8% drop within 2 years). The usual activities dimension showed the greatest impairment among those patients (34.4% drop within 1 year).

CONCLUSION

This community-based study described the long-term QoL trajectory for EC survivors after different therapeutic modalities and constructed models to predict therapy-specific QoL at different time points after treatment. It provided new insights into decision making in treatment for EC from the perspective of QoL protection, offering a convenient tool for estimating quality-adjusted life-years.
Node marking techniques and targeted axillary dissection in patients with cN1 disease undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Analysis of initial 500 participants in the ATNEC trial.
Authors: Goyal Amit , Elbeltagi Nada , Marshall Andrea , Nicholls Sophie , Hammonds Natalie , Elsberger Beatrix , Wheatley Duncan , Shaaban Abeer , Rose Janice , Edwards Helen Teresa , Nabi Zohal , Homer Tara , Ahmed Samreen , Dunn Janet ,   ATNEC Trial Management Group
Published: July 2024

609

Background: In the ongoing neoadjuvant ATNEC breast cancer trial (NCT04109079), cT1-3N1M0 patients receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by sentinel node biopsy (SNB) or targeted axillary dissection (TAD). If the sentinel nodes (SNs) convert to benign (ypN0), patients are randomized to receive Axillary Treatment vs. no Axillary Treatment. Standardized node marking procedures are promoted in this study. This study evaluates node marking techniques, rates of marked node identification, and concordance of the marked node with the sentinel node in the initial 500 participants. Methods: Data from 587 patients registered from December 2021 to January 1, 2024, across 77 UK centers were analyzed. These patients presented with cT1-3N1M0 breast cancer and received or planned to receive NACT. Results: The median age was 54 years (range 28-81), with a median of 4 nodes [interquartile range, 3-5] removed during SNB/TAD. Among 470 patients with node marking data, 72% (339) had the involved node marked. Sentinel node biopsy was performed using a combination of radioisotope and blue dye in 51%, blue dye only in 13%, radioisotope only in 10%, and Magtrace only in 9%. The marked node was successfully removed in 90% (305/339) of these patients, with the marked node being the sentinel node in 80% (243/305) of cases. In patients with complete pathological nodal response, the marked node did not show signs of downstaging (e.g. fibrosis) in 15% (46). Common techniques used for node marking included clip/coil only before NACT (29%), clip/coil before NACT with another wireless marker after NACT (26%), Magseed only before NACT (16%), and black dye only before NACT (15%). Conclusions: Notably, 72% of patients underwent node marking, with an intra-operative identification rate of 90%, demonstrating the successful implementation of node marking in the UK through the ATNEC trial. Clinical trial information: NCT04109079 .
importance of diet, intestinal microbiome and physical activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Review
Authors: Antczak Joanna , Lipska Julia , Hamerska Laura , Hamerska Julia , Bocianiak Bogumił , Kajka Anna , Fenrych Urszula , Wojtczak Karolina , Skupińska Olga , Ruta Damian
Published: July 2024

Introduction and objective
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation and joint damage resulting from an excessive production of inflammatory cytokines. The objective of this text is to describe the interplay between the gut microbiome, dietary factors, physical activity and RA pathogenesis. By synthesizing current knowledge, we aim to provide potential insights into the development of personalized therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for individuals with RA.
Review methods
Literature review was carried out using PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases. The following search terms were used: “rheumatoid arthritis gut microbiome”, “rheumatoid arthritis diet”, “rheumatoid arthritis sport”. Articles published from 2016 to 2023 were analyzed. Earlier articles were sometimes included, if referenced by later works.
State of knowledge
While there is no cure for RA, several treatments aim to manage its symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected. The most common treatments include medications: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, corticosteroids. Recent attention has turned to the role of sport, diet, and the gut microbiome in modulating RA severity, offering promising avenues for holistic management approaches.
Summary
Recent research highlights the role of diet in modulating RA severity, with evidence suggesting alterations in gut microbiota composition in RA patients, including the impact of dietary interventions, probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, antibiotics, and vitamin D supplementation on the gut microbiome and their potential efficacy in mitigating RA-associated symptoms. Physical activity has also been shown to reduce the severity of RA symptoms.
Controlling Homophily in Social Network Regression Analysis by Machine Learning
Authors: Liu Xuanqi , Huang Ke-Wei
Published: July 2024

Across social science disciplines, empirical studies related to social networks have become the most popular research subjects in recent years. A frequently examined topic within these studies is the estimation of peer influence while controlling for homophily effects. However, although researchers may have access to all observable homophily variables, there is scarce literature addressing latent homophily effects stemming from unobservable features. Recent endeavors have demonstrated the efficacy of node embeddings derived from network structure in controlling latent homophily. Inspired by the network embedding research, this study introduces two methods that integrate node embeddings to better control latent homophily, particularly the nonlinear latent homophily effect. The first method uses double machine learning in the partially linear regression literature to alleviate estimation bias. The second method estimates peer influence effects directly by a novel neural network model. Our experimentation results show that our approaches outperform existing estimators in reducing the omitted variable bias due to homophily effects in network regression models. Theoretical analysis of two new estimation methods is also provided in this paper.

History: Accepted by Ram Ramesh, Area Editor for Data Science and Machine Learning.

Funding: This research is supported by the National Research Foundation, Singapore under its Industry Alignment Fund - Pre-positioning (IAF-PP) Funding Initiative [Grant A-0003504-02-00].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2022.0287 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2022.0287 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Sleep Disruptions and Information Processing in Financial Markets
Authors: Bazley William , Cuculiza Carina , Pisciotta Kevin
Published: July 2024

Despite evidence of the importance of sleep for cognitive performance, prior research finds limited effects of sleep disruptions on financial markets. This is puzzling because financial decisions rely on higher-order cognitive processes that are typically affected by sleep. We reconcile this dissonance by examining forecasts of corporate earnings by nonprofessional and professional forecasters. We find that nonprofessional forecasters exhibit a significant decline in their forecast accuracy following spring daylight saving time changes relative to professional forecasters. Using a separate sample of professional equity analysts’ forecasts, we continue to find that the information processing of analysts with less expertise is disproportionately negatively affected following sleep disruptions. Placebo tests provide support for sleep disruptions as the main driver of these effects. Overall, our evidence that information processing by less experienced and skilled market participants is particularly vulnerable to sleep disruptions provides one compelling reason why aggregate financial markets seem to be immune to sleep effects even though individual participants are not.

This paper was accepted by Ranjani Krishnan, accounting.

Supplemental Material: The internet appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01102 .
Agave obscura new record in the diet of nectarivorous bats Leptonycteris nivalis, Choeronycteris mexicana and Anoura geoffroyi in the mountains of central Veracruz, México
Authors: Galindo-González Jorge , Cuéllar-Martínez Manuel , Mac Swiney G. M. Cristina
Published: July 2024

Reportamos la interacción de los murciélagos nectarívoros Leptonycteris nivalis, Choeronycteris mexicana y Anoura geoffroyi con las flores de Agave obscura Schiede (Asparagaceae).  En esta interacción comprobamos el consumo de néctar y la polinización de las flores de A. obscura, por lo que reportamos por primera vez a A. obscura como parte de la dieta de estos murciélagos nectarívoros.  Agave obscura es una especie endémica de México con distribución en los estados de Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosí, Veracruz, Puebla y Oaxaca.  Mediante grabaciones de video y análisis de muestras de polen colectados directamente sobre los murciélagos, registramos las interacciones entre mayo y junio de 2018, en el bosque mixto de pino encino de Toxtlacoaya, municipio de las Vigas de Ramírez, Veracruz, México (2,426 m).  Se capturaron 18 individuos de murciélagos nectarívoros: L. nivalis (n = 9), C. mexicana (n = 3) y A. geoffroyi (n = 6), forrajeando inflorescencias de A. oscura, los murciélagos presentaron polen del agave en hocico, pecho, cabeza, o membranas alares.  Éste es el primer registro conocido de la interacción de estos murciélagos con A. oscura, lo que añade valor de conservación a esta especie endémica como fuente de alimento para murciélagos nectarívoros mexicanos.
Evaluating the post-foaling mare with colic. 1: gastrointestinal conditions
Authors: Bozorgmanesh Rana
Published: July 2024

Colic is commonly encountered in the post-foaling mare and can pose a diagnostic challenge for the equine practitioner. Many conditions can contribute to signs of colic in these mares, including conditions of the gastrointestinal, reproductive and genitourinary tracts. Diagnostic workup is similar to that of most other cases of colic, with additional attention paid to the udder, vulva and vaginal vault. Transabdominal ultrasound examination is important in the assessment of these mares and allows identification of key features for diagnosis. Conditions of the gastrointestinal tract include large colon displacement or volvulus, caecal tympany, impaction, necrosis and rupture, small intestinal strangulation through a mesenteric rent, large or small colon impaction, bruised bowel, diaphragmatic herniation, ischaemic necrosis of the descending colon after tearing of the mesocolon and rectal prolapse. Aggressive therapy is generally required for most of these conditions and prognosis is variable.
Science, Michel Serres, and the Topological Poetics of A. R. Ammons
Authors: Kuhn Bernhard H.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This essay interprets the poetry of A. R. Ammons through the mathematics of topology as theorized by Michel Serres. Focused on the bending, stretching and twisting of geometric forms to reveal new, unexpected shapes and areas of equivalence, topology provides Serres a conception of culture that challenges the static, Euclidian mindset that for him predominates Western thought. Viewed topologically, Ammons’s poems, with their rapidly changing, seemingly incongruous, subject matter, meter, and diction, create surprising structural analogies or points of contact between discourses often regarded as separate, such as the literary and scientific. I trace the relations between science and poetry in two of Ammons’s more ambitious works that span his mature period: the “Essay on Poetics” (1970) and the book-length Garbage (1993), examining the innovative strategies Ammons develops to locate the hidden passageways between disciplines that modern culture obscures.
Chaitén La Pompeya (2015) de María Paz González: absurdo, desastre socionatural y neoliberalismo en Chile
Authors: Carvajal Gustavo
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article examines the strategies employed in the play Chaitén La Pompeya (2015) by actress and playwright María Paz González to dramatize a critical performance of the May 2, 2008, eruption of the Chaitén volcano and the ensuing catastrophe for the affected communities. Specifically, it analyzes the use of the absurd as a historical genre and literary aesthetic to dramatize the inertia, isolation, and historical oblivion experienced by the surviving inhabitants in an area affected by centralist demands, power devices, and control under the dominant neoliberal market regime in Chile. Finally, this study aims to place Chaitén La Pompeya within a broader group of contemporary Chilean playwrights and collectives that have developed artistic projects critical of the economic and political ideology imposed in Chile since the last decade of the civic-military dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet (1973-1989).
Weaving (Trans) Time in Mexican Cabaret’s La Prietty Guoman
Authors: Risk Orion
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In the Mexican political cabaret piece, La Prietty Guoman —created in 2016 and since performed across Mexico and the United States—César Enríquez embodies La Prietty, a transgender sex worker dreaming her story alongside Julia Roberts’ romantic entanglement with Richard Gere in the 1990 romcom Pretty Woman . Building on performance and temporality studies done by scholars such as José Esteban Muñoz, Jill Dolan, Christina Baker, and Elizabeth Freeman, this essay critiques La Prietty Guoman as performing strategic temporality. In so doing, this research illuminates La Prietty Guoman and advances performance studies scholarship by unpacking intersections between past, present, and future temporalities in trans-of-color theatre, thus suggesting the performative potential of strategic deployment of trans and anti-trans time. Ultimately, resisting absolute temporal divisions, La Prietty Guoman entangles a performed trans time with the anti-trans present to summon hope for the trans future.
THE SOCIAL CONTEXT OF INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Davis Christina L.
Published: July 2024

The social context of relations between states provides the foundation for cooperation within international institutions. In a departure from theories that focus on rational design of contracts and functional demand for institutions, increasingly scholars emphasize geopolitics. Both as a component of power and social context, geopolitics shapes multilateral cooperation. This article examines theories that bring new perspectives on cooperation as a process embedded within international society. It highlights innovative developments to include relational variables in empirical analysis to measure how geopolitical alignment between states impacts the design and effectiveness of international institutions. The relational politics that undergird multilateral cooperation also contribute to the proliferation of institutions as states build new clubs for cooperation
Schistosomiasis diagnosis: Challenges and opportunities for elimination
Authors: Ally Ombeni , Kanoi Bernard N. , Ochola Lucy , Nyanjom Steven Ger , Shiluli Clement , Misinzo Gerald , Gitaka Jesse
Published: July 2024

Overview

The roadmap adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating neglected tropical diseases aims to eliminate schistosomiasis, as a public health concern, by 2030. While progress has been made towards reducing schistosomiasis morbidity control in several sub-Saharan African countries, there is still more that needs to be done. Proper surveillance using accurate diagnostics with acceptable sensitivity and specificity is essential for evaluating the success of all efforts against schistosomiasis. Microscopy, despite its low sensitivity, remains the gold standard approach for diagnosing the disease. Although many efforts have been made to develop new diagnostics based on circulating parasite proteins, genetic markers, schistosome egg morphology, and their paramagnetic properties, none has been robust enough to replace microscopy. This review highlights common diagnostic approaches for detecting schistosomiasis in field and clinical settings, major challenges, and provides new and novel opportunities and diagnosis pathways that will be critical in supporting elimination of schistosomiasis.

Methods

We searched for relevant and reliable published literature from PubMed, Scopus, google scholar, and Web of science. The search strategies were primarily determined by subtopic, and hence the following words were used (schistosom*, diagnosis, Kato–Katz, antibody test, circulating antigen, POC-CCA, UCP-LF-CAA, molecular diagnostics, nucleic acid amplification test, microfluidics, lab-on a disk, lab-on chip, recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), LAMP, portable sequencer, nanobody test, identical multi-repeat sequences, diagnostic TPPs, REASSURED, extraction free), and Boolean operators AND and/OR were used to refine the searching capacity. Due to the global public health nature of schistosomiasis, we also searched for reliable documents, reports, and research papers published by international health organizations, World Health Organization (WHO), and Center for Disease control and Elimination.
Team pro-social rule breaking and team innovation performance: An information processing theory perspective
Authors: Miao Guosen , Chen Guoping , Yao Ying
Published: July 2024

Exploring the antecedents that affect the team innovation performance can better promote the organization to research the potential factors to enhance the organizational innovation competitiveness. Drawing upon information processing theory, we develop a moderated mediation model to examine the relationship between team pro-social rule breaking and team innovation performance. A three-wave field study is constructed from two large manufacturing enterprises from 82 team leaders and their 382 subordinates in Shanghai, China. The results reveal that team pro-social rule breaking is positively related to team innovation performance through team reflexivity. In addition, the relationship between team pro-social rule breaking and team innovation performance via team reflexivity is positive only when team learning orientation is high. The implications, limitations, and future research directions of these findings are discussed.