bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the standard proteinuria cut-off for renal biopsy in lupus nephritis as per the current guidelines hold good for Asian population? A single-centre study from South India
Authors: Padiyar Shivraj , AS Chandu , Gowri Mahasampath , Mathew John
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Current rheumatology and nephrology society guidelines in lupus nephritis do not recommend renal biopsy for proteinuria of less than 500 mg/24 h. This might lead to a significant delay in the early diagnosis of lupus nephritis.

Aim

The main aim of this study is to determine the nature of renal lesions in patients with low-grade proteinuria and to analyze the predictors for clinically significant lupus nephritis.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective study. All consecutive patients of lupus nephritis, with low-grade proteinuria (200 mg to 500 mg/24 h) undergoing renal biopsy were enrolled in this study. The renal biopsies were classified into significant lesions (Class III/IV/V) and non-significant lesions (Class I and II). Treatment naïve groups and treatment-modified groups were analyzed separately. Predictive factors for significant renal lesions were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

We identified 183 patients of lupus with proteinuria between 200 and 500 mg / 24 h. Mean (SD) age was 30.2 (11.39) years with 167 (91.2%) of them being females. The mean (SD) baseline proteinuria was 351.03 (98.1) mg/24 h 85 patients (46.5%) had proliferative lupus nephritis where whereas 17 patients (9.3%) had membranous nephropathy. Crescents and fibrinoid necrosis were seen in 10 (5.46%) and 24 (13.11 %) patients respectively. Isolated proteinuria without any other sediments was seen in 95 patients (51.9%) of which 29 patients had proliferative lupus nephritis. Elevated Anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), low C3, low C4 and the presence of urinary sediments were significantly associated with significant renal lesions in biopsy.

Conclusion

Significant renal lesions were seen in around half of the patients with low-grade proteinuria underscoring the importance of performing a renal biopsy in this set of patients. Low C3 and C4, urinary sediments, and elevated anti-dsDNA were predictors for significant renal lesions.
Severe lupus enteritis: A diagnostic and therapeutic enigma
Authors: Singh Neha , Janardhanan Jyothi , Kale Sudhir , Krishnegowda Jayalakshmi , Kumar Harish , Naushad Ali Syed Mohammed , Arigela Karthik , Ginigeri Chetan , Bhattad Sagar
Published: October 2024

Lupus enteritis refers to the gastrointestinal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It presents with diverse symptoms that frequently overlap with those of other acute abdominal conditions, posing diagnostic challenges. We describe an adolescent female, with lupus pancreatitis and nephritis, who later developed severe lupus enteritis during the course of her illness. She was treated with pulse methylprednisolone and intravenous cyclophosphamide and gradually improved over 3 weeks. Our case highlights the need to consider lupus enteritis in patients with severe pain abdomen and intractable vomiting. Presence of lupus pancreatitis and nephritis are risk factors for development of enteritis.
Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier 1 as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zou Hongbo , Yin Yunfei , Xiong Kai , Luo Xuelian , Sun Zhongju , Mao Bijing , Xie Qichao , Tan Mei , Kong Rui
Published: October 2024

Background

Abnormal mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 (MPC1) expression plays a key role in tumor metabolic reprogramming and progression. Understanding its significance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is crucial for identifying therapeutic targets.

Methods

TIMER 2.0 was utilized to assess the expression of MPC1 in both normal and cancer tissues in pan-cancer. Overall survival (OS) differences between high and low MPC1 expression were analyzed in NSCLC using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. We also examined the expression of MPC1 in NSCLC cell lines using western blotting and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In addition, the tissue samples and clinical information of 80 patients with NSCLC from our hospital were collected. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to assess MPC1 expression, and OS was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the prognostic values of the clinical characteristics and MPC1expression.

Results

Analysis of public databases suggested that MPC1 was downregulated in NSCLC compared to that in normal lung tissue and predicted poor prognosis. In addition, the expression of MPC1 in NSCLC cell lines was lower than that in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells at both protein and mRNA levels. Further clinical analysis suggested that MPC1 expression was correlated with age, tumor T stage, and TNM stage. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that NSCLC patients with high MPC1 expression had a better prognosis, particularly in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), whereas no survival benefit was observed in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that MPC1 was an independent prognostic factor for patients with NSCLC.

Conclusions

MPC1 is poorly expressed in NSCLC, particularly in LUAD, which predicts a poor prognosis and may serve as an independent prognostic factor. Further studies on MPC1 may reveal new targets for the treatment of NSCLC.
Safety and efficacy of coated flow diverters in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms during single antiplatelet therapy: A multicenter study
Authors: Goertz Lukas , Hohenstatt Sophia , Vollherbst Dominik F. , Weyland Charlotte S. , Nikoubashman Omid , Gronemann Christian , Pflaeging Muriel , Siebert Eberhard , Bohner Georg , Zopfs David , Schlamann Marc , Liebig Thomas , Dorn Franziska , Wiesmann Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus A. , Kabbasch Christoph
Published: October 2024

Objective

This multicenter study evaluates the safety and efficacy of coated flow diverters (cFDs) for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms under single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT).

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational study of 41 patients (median age: 58 years) with 41 aneurysms (median size: 7 mm, 29 [71%] saccular, 9 [22%] ruptured) treated with cFDs at four neurovascular centers between 2020 and 2023. Scheduled cases received continuous SAPT starting seven days before the procedure. Emergency cases were treated with tirofiban followed by SAPT loading. The safety endpoint was ischemic complications occurring during the procedure and within four months of clinical follow-up.

Results

The Pipeline Vantage or Flex Shield was used in 26 (63%) procedures, the FRED X in 12 (29%), the p48/64 Hydrophilic Polymer Coating in 2 (5%), and the Derivo Embolization Device 2heal in 1 (2%). Single antiplatelet therapy consisted of prasugrel in 27 (66%) patients, ticagrelor in 9 (22%), and ASA in 5 (12%). There were 2 (5%) early ischemic complications (one minor stroke and one transient ischemic attack). There were no late ischemic complications in the four-month follow-up of 35 patients. The six dropouts included four nontreatment-related deaths after subarachnoid hemorrhage and two patients with a poor outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Complete and favorable occlusion rates (median: 7 months) were 75% (27/36) and 89% (32/36), respectively.

Conclusions

Coated flow diverter implantation in the setting of SAPT was safe and effective and warrants confirmation in a prospective comparative trial.
Theory, explanation, and economics in financial geographies
Authors: Wójcik Dariusz , Bratton William
Published: October 2024

We take stock of theory and explanation in financial geographies between 2001 and 2020. Our analysis confirms the lone ascent of financialisation to the status of leading theory and shows that economics, particularly the financial variety, has been gradually pushed away from financial geographies in a shift that accompanied the decline of quantitative research approaches. We explain how these developments are interrelated and argue that they pose challenges to the role of explanatory theory, particularly in terms of its practical adequacy, understood as analytical robustness in explaining empirical outcomes, and usefulness for the practice of positive social change. We propose that these challenges need to be addressed by strengthening relationships between financial geographies and varieties of economics. We illustrate opportunities for such engagement in three broad areas: quantifying financialisation, sustainable finance, and decentralised finance.
Schottky barrier memory based on heterojunction bandgap engineering for high-density and low-power retention
Authors: Kim Hyangwoo , Kim Yijoon , Oh Kyounghwan , Park Ju Hong , Baek Chang-Ki
Published: October 2024

Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) has been scaled down to meet high-density, high-speed, and low-power memory requirements. However, conventional DRAM has limitations in achieving memory reliability, especially sufficient capacitance to distinguish memory states. While there have been attempts to enhance capacitor technology, these solutions increase manufacturing cost and complexity. Additionally, Silicon-based capacitorless memories have been reported, but they still suffer from serious difficulties regarding reliability and power consumption. Here, we propose a novel Schottky barrier memory (SBRAM), which is free of the complex capacitor structure and features a heterojunction based on bandgap engineering. SBRAM can be configured as vertical cross-point arrays, which enables high-density integration with a 4F2 footprint. In particular, the Schottky junction significantly reduces the reverse leakage current, preventing sneak current paths that cause leakage currents and readout errors during array operation. Moreover, the heterojunction physically divides the storage region into two regions, resulting in three distinct resistive states and inducing a gradual current slope to ensure sufficient holding margin. These states are determined by the holding voltage (Vhold) applied to the programmed device. When the Vhold is 1.1 V, the programmed state can be maintained with an exceptionally low current of 35.7 fA without a refresh operation.
Elevated high-sensitive cardiac troponin T in emergency department patients: insights from a retrospective descriptive cohort study
Authors: Syryca Finn , Haller Bernhard , Schmid Lisa , Kallweit Christiane , Nicol Philipp , Trenkwalder Teresa , Kanz Karl-Georg , Haas Anja , Dommasch Michael
Published: October 2024

Background

High-sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) assessments are routinely conducted in German emergency departments (EDs). However, data describing a large number of ED patients with pathological hs-cTnT levels and subsequent clinical outcomes are limited.

Methods

This retrospective descriptive analysis included 141.892 patients who presented to the interdisciplinary ED at Klinikum rechts der Isar in Munich, Germany, between January 2019 and December 2021. Patients with trauma diagnoses were excluded, focusing on those with elevated hs-cTnT levels. These patients were categorized into three groups based on the International Classification of Procedures in Medicine (ICPM): those with elevated hs-cTnT who received no coronary angiography (NCA), those who underwent diagnostic coronary angiography (DCA), and those who received percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The objective of this study was to characterize a large emergency department patient cohort and assess their subsequent clinical outcomes.

Results

After initial Manchester Triage Sytem (MTS) categorization, 32.6% (46.307/141.892) of patients were identified as non-trauma cases. Of these, 9.9% (4.587/46.307) had hs-cTnT levels exceeding 14 ng/L. Within this subset, 70.4% (3.230/4.587) did not undergo coronary angiography, 15.4% (705/4.587) underwent DCA and 14.2% (652/4.587) received PCI. Chest pain occurred more frequently in the PCI group (28.0%, 160/652) compared to the DCA group (18.3%, 113/705) or NCA group (5.7%, 159/3230), p < 0.001. However, breathing problems occurred more frequently in the NCA group (23.2%, 647/3230) compared to the PCI group (17.7%, 101/652) or DCA group (21.8%, 135/705), p < 0.001. Also, collapse was more frequent in patients in the NCA group (4.0%, 112/3230) compared to the DCA group (3.4%, 21/705) or PCI group (3.5%, 20/652), p < 0.001. Overall, in-hospital mortality was significantly higher in the NCA group (7.9%, 256/3230) compared to the DCA group (2.3%, 16/705) or PCI group (4.1%, 27/652), p < 0.001.

Conclusion

Emergency patients with elevated hs-cTnT who did not undergo coronary angiography faced a higher risk of in-hospital mortality in our retrospective descriptive study. Given the heterogeneous nature of presenting complaints in emergency departments, identifying at-risk patients can pose challenges for treating physicians.
Dual transcriptional characterization of spinach and Peronospora effusa during resistant and susceptible race-cultivar interactions
Authors: Clark Kelley J. , Feng Chunda , Anchieta Amy G. , Van Deynze Allen , Correll James C. , Klosterman Steven J.
Published: October 2024

Background

Spinach downy mildew, caused by the obligate oomycete pathogen, Peronospora effusa remains a major concern for spinach production. Disease control is predominantly based on development of resistant spinach cultivars. However, new races and novel isolates of the pathogen continue to emerge and overcome cultivar resistance. Currently there are 20 known races of P. effusa. Here we characterized the transcriptomes of spinach, Spinacia oleracea, and P. effusa during disease progression using the spinach cultivar Viroflay, the near isogenic lines NIL1 and NIL3, and P. effusa races, R13 and R19, at 24 h post inoculation and 6 days post inoculation. A total of 54 samples were collected and subjected to sequencing and transcriptomic analysis.

Results

Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis in resistant spinach interactions of R13-NIL1 and R19-NIL3 revealed spinach DEGs from protein kinase-like and P-loop containing families, which have roles in plant defense. The homologous plant defense genes included but were not limited to, receptor-like protein kinases (Spiol0281C06495, Spiol06Chr21559 and Spiol06Chr24027), a BAK1 homolog (Spiol0223C05961), genes with leucine rich repeat motifs (Spiol04Chr08771, Spiol04Chr01972, Spiol05Chr26812, Spiol04Chr11049, Spiol0084S08137, Spiol03Chr20299) and ABC-transporters (Spiol02Chr28975, Spiol06Chr22112, Spiol06Chr03998 and Spiol04Chr09723). Additionally, analysis of the expression of eight homologous to previously reported downy mildew resistance genes revealed that some are differentially expressed during resistant reactions but not during susceptible reactions. Examination of P. effusa gene expression during infection of susceptible cultivars identified expressed genes present in R19 or R13 including predicted RxLR and Crinkler effector genes that may be responsible for race-specific virulence on NIL1 or NIL3 spinach hosts, respectively.

Conclusions

These findings deliver foundational insight to gene expression in both spinach and P. effusa during susceptible and resistant interactions and provide a library of candidate genes for further exploration and functional analysis. Such resources will be beneficial to spinach breeding efforts for disease resistance in addition to better understanding the virulence mechanisms of this obligate pathogen.
Effect of low vs. high vancomycin trough level on the clinical outcomes of adult patients with sepsis or gram-positive bacterial infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chander Subhash , Kumari Roopa , Wang Hong Yu , Mohammed Yaqub Nadeem , Parkash Om , Lohana Sindhu , Sorath FNU , Lohana Abhi Chand , Sadarat FNU , Shiwlani Sheena
Published: October 2024

Background & objective

The Infectious Disease Society of America guidelines recommend vancomycin trough levels of 15–20 mg/L for severe methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. However, recent consensus guidelines of four infectious disease organizations no longer recommend vancomycin dosing using minimum serum trough concentrations. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of low (< 15 mg/L) vs. high (≥ 15 mg/L) vancomycin trough levels on clinical outcomes in adult patients with sepsis or gram-positive bacterial infections.

Method

A systematic literature review from inception to December 2022 was conducted using four online databases, followed by a meta-analysis. The outcomes of interest included clinical response/efficacy, microbial clearance, length of ICU stay, treatment failure, nephrotoxicity, and mortality.

Results

Fourteen cohort studies met the inclusion criteria from which vancomycin trough concentration data were available for 5,228 participants. Our analysis found no association between vancomycin trough levels and clinical response [OR = 1.06 (95%CI 0.41–2.72], p = 0.91], microbial clearance [OR = 0.47 (95% CI 0.23–0.96), p = 0.04], ICU length of stay [MD=-1.01 (95%CI -5.73–3.71), p = 0.68], or nephrotoxicity [OR = 0.57 (95% CI 0.31–1.06), p = 0.07]. However, low trough levels were associated with a non-significant trend towards a lower risk of treatment failure [OR = 0.89 (95% CI 0.73–1.10), p = 0.28] and were significantly associated with reduced risk of all-cause mortality [OR = 0.74 (95% CI 0.62–0.90), p = 0.002].

Conclusion

Except for a lower risk of treatment failure and all-cause mortality at low vancomycin trough levels, this meta-analysis found no significant association between vancomycin trough levels and clinical outcomes in adult patients with sepsis or gram-positive bacterial infections.
Are nurses and patients willing to work with service robots in healthcare? A mixed-methods study
Authors: El-Gazar Heba Emad , Abdelhafez Shymaa , Ali Amira Mohammed , Shawer Mona , Alharbi Talal Ali F. , Zoromba Mohamed Ali
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Scholars have become increasingly interested in incorporating robots into healthcare. While there is a growing body of research examining nurses’ and patients’ attitudes towards using robots in healthcare, no prior research has specifically explored their willingness to integrate service robots within the Egyptian healthcare context.

Aim

The aim of this study was twofold: (a) to explore the behavioral intentions of nurses to accept robots in their workplace, and (b) to examine the willingness of patients to use service robots in healthcare settings.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted. Quantitative data were collected from 301 nurses using the Behavioral Intention to Accept Robots in the Workplace Scale and from 467 patients using the Service Robot Integration Willingness Scale through convenience sampling at three tertiary public hospitals in Port Said, Egypt. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 16 nurses, focusing on their perspectives and concerns regarding robot integration. Descriptive analyses were used to analyze quantitative data, and thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data.

Results

Quantitative results indicated a moderate level of behavioral intention to use robots among nurses. Patients demonstrated low willingness to use service robots. In the qualitative analysis of the data obtained from the interviews with nurses, three categories (Concerns about Robots, Roles and Competencies, and Potential Benefits) and eight themes (interaction and emotions, maintenance and reliability, job insecurity, role clarity, competence in critical care, trustworthiness, reducing physical strain, and specialized applications) were identified.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that nurses’ behavioral intention to accept service robots in healthcare settings is moderate and their acceptance is influenced by various factors related to their concerns about robots, roles and competencies, and potential benefits they could gain. Patients showed a low level of willingness to use service robots in healthcare settings.

Implication

Providing targeted educational programs to nurses and patients, assuring them with the provision of robust maintenance protocols, enhancing their confidence in the capabilities of robots, and defining clear roles for robots are crucial for the successful integration of robots into healthcare settings.
Bibliometric analysis of occupational exposure in operating room from 1973 to 2022
Authors: Li Chuang , Geng Meng , Li Shujun , Li Xianglan , Li Huiqin , Yuan Hufang , Liu Fengxia
Published: October 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify and visualize from different perspectives the topic on occupational exposure in operating room (OEOR).

Methods

In the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), all the half-century data were retrieved from January 1st, 1973 to December 31st, 2022. CiteSpace, VOSviewer and Excel 2019 were employed to analyze and visualize data, based on publications, countries, institutions, journals, authors, keywords.

Result

A total of 336 journal papers were found. The increase of publications virtually started in 1991, peaked in 2020 and has been slowing down ever since. USA played most significant part among all the 49 countries/regions, while Universidade Estadual Paulista out of 499 institutions published the most papers. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health bears the most documents and citations in all the 219 retrieved journals. There are 1847 authors found, among whom Hoerauf K is the most influential one. "Occupational exposure”, “nitrous oxide” and “operating room personnel” are the top 3 co-occurrences keywords.

Conclusion

The trend in the field lies in “anaesthetic gas”, “blood borne pathogen”, “radiation” and “aerosol”, while “surgical smoke” and “occupational safety” are the recently researching hot spots in this study. Accurate recognize and effective protection are always essential subjects for researchers.
The association between patient age, abscess size, and white blood cell count on duration of catheter stay for percutaneous abscess drainage of abdominal abscesses
Authors: Stevens Christopher , Mehta Chintan , Scott Dylan , Ramesh Prerana , Ragland Amanda , Johnson Coplen , Strobel Joshua , Schmoutz Christopher , Aslan Assala , Ahuja Chaitanya , De Alba Luis
Published: October 2024

Objective

Knowing factors that impact catheter stay duration is important since removing drainage catheters too early or late can have significant consequences. We present a single center retrospective study that analyzes multiple variables, including abscess size, white blood cell count, and patient age, to see if a correlation between them and duration of catheter stay exists. The inclusion criteria were patients that had abdominal abscesses treated with percutaneous abscess drainage using a pigtail catheter, ≥ 18 years of age, and had available medical images and records. 44 patients were included.

Results

Among white blood cell count, patient age, and abscess volume, the only significant relationship with duration of catheter stay was abscess size (R = 0.42, p-value = 0.0049).
Cediranib and Olaparib Combination Compared With Cediranib or Olaparib Alone, or Chemotherapy in Platinum-Resistant or Primary Platinum-Refractory Ovarian Cancer: NRG-GY005
Authors: Lee Jung-Min , Brady Mark F. , Miller Austin , Moore Richard G. , MacKay Helen , McNally Leah , Lea Jayanthi , Street Daron , Lheureux Stephanie , McDonald Megan E. , Duska Linda R. , Cantuaria Guilherme , Kavecansky Juraj , Leath Charles A. , Powell Matthew , Cadungog Mark G. , Rose Peter G. , Kim Yong-Man , Huang Helen Q. , Provencher Michèle , Wenzel Lari B. , Bookman Michael A. , Kohn Elise C. , Secord Angeles Alvarez
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

We assessed the efficacy of cediranib, olaparib, and cediranib/olaparib compared with standard-of-care chemotherapy (SOC) in platinum-resistant or platinum-refractory epithelial ovarian cancer (PROC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

NRG-GY005 is an open-label, four-arm, phase II/III superiority trial enrolling patients with high-grade serous/endometrioid PROC and one to three previous therapies. Key exclusion criteria included previous receipt of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor or receipt of antiangiogenic therapy in the recurrent setting. Treatment arms (SOC [once weekly paclitaxel, topotecan, or pegylated liposomal doxorubicin], cediranib, olaparib, or cediranib/olaparib) were equally randomized. A preplanned interim futility analysis on the basis of progression-free survival (PFS) selected treatment arms to advance to phase III. PFS and overall survival (OS) were phase III coprimary end points, with hierarchical testing of PFS followed by OS to preserve type 1 error control, designed to have 90% power for a 0.625 PFS hazard ratio (HR). OS was tested after PFS in the multiple hierarchical testing procedure. Secondary end points included objective response rate (ORR) and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-two eligible patients were enrolled for phase II/III. Three arms met PFS criteria to carry forward to phase III (SOC, cediranib/olaparib, and cediranib). Median PFS was 3.4, 5.2, and 4 months with SOC, cediranib/olaparib, and cediranib, respectively, with a median follow-up duration of 42.2 months. PFS HR estimates for cediranib/olaparib and cediranib (
v
SOC) were 0.796 (98.3% CI, 0.597 to 1.060) and 0.972 (98.3% CI, 0.726 to 1.300), respectively. Median OS was 13.6, 12.8, and 10.5 months, and of 443 patients with measurable disease, ORR was 8.6%, 24.7%, and 13.1% for SOC, cediranib/olaparib, and cediranib, respectively. No new safety signals were identified. In patients receiving cediranib/olaparib, no statistically significant difference was observed on the NFOSI-DRS-P subscale compared with SOC (98.3% CI, –1.3 to 1.5,
P
= .8725).

CONCLUSION

The cediranib-containing arms demonstrated clinical activity on the basis of PFS but were not superior compared with SOC.
Impact of Comprehensive Genome Profiling on the Management of Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Preliminary Results From the Lung Cancer Cohort of the FPG500 Program
Authors: Vitale Antonio , Mastrantoni Luca , Russo Jacopo , Giacomini Flavia , Giannarelli Diana , Duranti Simona , Vita Emanuele , Nero Camilla , D'Argento Ettore , Pasciuto Tina , Giacò Luciano , Di Salvatore Mariantonietta , Panfili Arianna , Stefani Alessio , Cancellieri Alessandra , Lococo Filippo , De Paolis Elisa , Livi Vanina , Daniele Gennaro , Trisolini Rocco , Minucci Angelo , Margaritora Stefano , Lorusso Domenica , Normanno Nicola , Scambia Giovanni , Tortora Giampaolo , Bria Emilio
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

The clinical and research FPG500 program (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT06020625
) is currently ongoing at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS to tailor matched targeted therapies (MTTs) according to biomarkers predictive of response identified by comprehensive genome profiling (CGP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cohort results from the FPG500 program are outlined. CGP was performed by TruSight Oncology 500 High Throughput (TSO500HT) assay or Oncomine Focus Assay plus Archer's FusionPlex Lung Panel according to tumor cell content and DNA/RNA quantity. Relevant issues for Molecular Tumor Board (MTB) evaluation included uncommon genomic findings, evaluation for off-label therapies, uncertain result confirmation, and variants of suspect germline origin requiring genetic counseling. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the enrolled patients were assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

In 2022, 283 patients with NSCLC were considered for sequencing, with 93% meeting eligibility criteria. TSO500HT sequencing was conducted in 76% of patients. Follow-up data were obtained for 187 patients, among whom 81% received treatment. Potential driver alterations were identified in 59% of patients, with 41% receiving MTT: 25% were prescribed approved MTTs, whereas 16% gained access to experimental drugs post-MTB evaluation; of note, 18% did not receive any MTT because the regimen was not yet reimbursed in our country. Median PFS and OS varied among treatment groups, with standard chemotherapy/immunotherapy at 7.7 and 10.7 months, approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors at 18.8 and 23.9 months, and MTT post-MTB discussion at 14 and 23.4 months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The early data of the FPG program (NSCLC cohort) support the implementation of CGP and MTB in clinical practice to grant access to patients harboring actionable molecular alterations to the most effective and individualized available treatment options, thus improving their survival outcomes.
El desarrollo normativo, ético y tecnológico de los Sistemas Autónomos Letales.
Authors: Moll Santa Isabel Ignacio
Published: October 2024

ltiples distopías, siendo su aplicación en el ámbito de la Seguridad y la Defensa uno de sus aspectos más controvertidos. A pesar de las numerosas llamadas de atención de diferentes actores gubernamentales, no gubernamentales e interestatales, los Estados afrontan el desarrollo de los Sistemas Autónomos Letales (SALAS) de forma diferente en función de sus intereses, su cultura y sus valores éticos, frecuentemente, ante la ausencia de una clara legalidad internacional. Es en este entorno geopolítico, donde los principios y valores occidentales que antaño fueron guía en la esfera mundial y que en la actualidad se encuentran cuestionados y eclipsados por una realidad propia de un mundo diferente, en el que las Naciones Unidas tratan de alcanzar acuerdos que regulen el desarrollo de los SALAS y limiten el riesgo de que las máquinas pudieran escapar al control de los seres humanos.
Athens/Sparta bipolarity in Xenophon’s Hellenika.
Authors: Bearzot Cinzia
Published: October 2024

The article traces the reflections found in the Hellenika on the theme of Athens/Sparta bipolarity, with the intention of illustrating Xenophon's interest in this international arrangement of the Greek world and of emphasizing its repercussions in Xenophon’s historiographical project.
Xenophon τακτικός? Remarks on his use of -ικός adjectives.
Authors: Pierre Pontier
Published: October 2024

Xenophon's interest in the art of command has never diminished. This article analyzes his ambivalent relationship with “tactics”, an art he sometimes dissociates himself from, because he considers it to take the place of a much more important knowledge that ultimately encompasses it. This is also demonstrated by his subtle use of -ikos adjectives in both the Memorabilia and the Hellenica. The list of terms, often attested for the first time, confirms that the suffix suggests a specialization and an approach to a limited body of knowledge, but above all demonstrates Xenophon's singular place in the transmission of military knowledge: he is both close to Aeneas the Tactician, as well as anxious to distinguish himself from these professionals of the military art.
El mestizaje hispanoamericano y su expresión en el derecho internacional de Andrés Bello.
Authors: Herrera Orellana Luis Alfonso
Published: October 2024

La relevancia del mestizaje hispanoamericano se vincula a la originalidad de obras artísticas producidas en la América española, al peso que como factor social tiene en la búsqueda de una supuesta identidad cultural de los países de la región, o a las presuntas dificultades para enfrentar problemas de discriminación. En contraste, se propone una interpretación diferente del mestizaje hispanoamericano, apoyada en ideas de reconocidos ensayistas y académicos hispanohablantes, según la cual su relevancia radicaría en incentivar el desarrollo de capacidades humanas, como el reconocimiento de la diversidad y la valoración del otro, idóneas para atender problemas actuales en el ámbito internacional. Como respaldo de la tesis propuesta, se analizan las ideas de Andrés Bello expuestas en sus textos sobre el derecho internacional, derivadas de su análisis histórico de la singular condición hispanoamericana, entre las que están el ejercicio limitado de la soberanía de los Estados, la no discriminación, la promoción de los intercambios libres entre los países y la integración de naciones con lazos históricos, culturales y políticos comunes, como factores clave para su pleno desarrollo y bienestar.
Cables submarinos SMART en América Latina: el proyecto antártico de Chile.
Authors: Arjona Hernández Noelia
Published: October 2024

La iniciativa de cables submarinos SMART es un área de investigación científica en desarrollo cuyo objetivo es integrar y utilizar una red de sensores dentro de un sistema de cable submarino para recoger datos científicos que permitan una mejor comprensión, planificación y notificaciones relacionadas con el cambio climático, la subida del nivel del mar, el calentamiento de los océanos, los tsunamis y los terremotos. Chile, a través de su Proyecto de cable Humboldt, pretende mejorar la red de comunicación para los sensores de tsunamis en la Antártida, potenciando las capacidades SMART para la vigilancia de tsunamis en la región Antártica lo que supondrá mejorar la evaluación de las amenazas para la alerta temprana de tsunamis en apoyo de las bases Antárticas. La vigilancia de las regiones polares es un componente fundamental para comprender el cambio climático. ¿Cuál es el régimen jurídico que debe enfrentar el proyecto de cable Antártico?
False positives, extrajudicial executions, homicide of a protected person, and forced disappearance in Colombia.
Authors: Mejía Alfonso Herbert Mauricio , Torregrosa Jiménez Rodolfo Alfonso , Torregrosa Jiménez Norhy Esther
Published: October 2024

During the last years, the indistinct and undifferentiated use of four terms related to serious violations of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) has made a career in different settings in our country, they are: Forced Disappearance, Homicide of a Protected Person, Extrajudicial or Extralegal Execution and the expression Positive False. The issue is of such relevance that the confusion has reached the Highest Courts, national and international Human Rights organizations, universities, and the media, among other scenarios. In these contexts, judicial decisions are made, reports on violation of Human Rights are presented, academic researchers are carried out, as well as journalistic columns or news events, which require a high level of socio-legal rigor in their analysis. The conceptual, theoretical, and politic differences of these terms related to serious violations of Human Rights are presented in these reflections.
Soft skills and learning methods for 21st-century project management: a review
Authors: Kearney Jason , Bond-Barnard Taryn , Chugh Ritesh
Published: October 2024

This article addresses a prominent gap in the literature by investigating the crucial soft skills required by project management students, graduates, and new practitioners entering the contemporary workforce. The literature review study adopts a concept-centric approach to examine the essential soft skills and effective learning methods for new project managers in the 21st century. Five essential 21st-century project management soft skills (communication, leadership, interpersonal, teamwork and emotional intelligence) were identified, along with three learning methods (experiential, active and reflective) that can be used to develop them. The implications of this research extend to project management students, graduates, and educators alike, emphasising the importance of nurturing the identified soft skills. As the project management domain evolves, the findings highlight the need for an education that prioritises hands-on learning and reflective practices, enabling emerging project managers to excel in their roles and drive project success.
Lightning Network Economics: Topology
Authors: Guasoni Paolo , Huberman Gur , Shikhelman Clara
Published: October 2024

By design, the Bitcoin protocol has a low throughput. The Lightning Network (LN) is a layer-two solution built to increase throughput by cryptographically securing commitments to transactions and only occasionally converting cumulative balances into on-chain transactions. LN channels enable payments between nodes connected by a path of channels. The payment flow through a channel determines its cost. Different channel topologies can support the same underlying flows but impose different costs. This paper obtains necessary conditions for cost-minimizing topologies by identifying local cost-reducing strategies. The first local strategy entails repositioning of channels. The second entails adding hubs to handle the flows of groups of nodes. The paper also evaluates the efficiency of a global configuration, obtaining bounds on the minimum cost topology and showing the unusual circumstances in which the cost minimal structure is a hub that connects to all other nodes.

This paper was accepted by Joshua Gans, business strategy.

Funding: This work was partially supported by Science Foundation Ireland [Grants 16/IA/4443, 16/SPP/3347], Columbia-International Business Machines Center for Blockchain and Data Transparency, Chaire Fintech at University Paris Dauphine-Paris Sciences et Lettres, Algorand Foundation, and Simons Institute.
The Analytics of Robust Satisficing: Predict, Optimize, Satisfice, Then Fortify
Authors: Sim Melvyn , Tang Qinshen , Zhou Minglong , Zhu Taozeng
Published: October 2024

In the paper, “The Analytics of Robust Satisficing: Predict, Optimize, Satisfice, Then Fortify,” published in Operations Research, authors Sim, Tang, Zhou, and Zhu introduce a novel approach to decision making under uncertainty. Their method, termed “estimation-fortified robust satisficing,” leverages advanced predictive and prescriptive analytics to optimize decisions where traditional models falter due to risk ambiguity and estimation uncertainties. This approach not only enhances the resilience of decisions against unforeseen variations but also consistently outperforms conventional predictive methods in scenarios characterized by sparse data. This significant advancement promises to fortify decision-making processes in critical sectors such as finance and operations management, offering a new paradigm in handling the inherent uncertainties of real-world systems.
Disciplina de Terapia On-line Infantil na Graduação em Psicologia: Relato de Experiência em Contexto Pandêmico
Authors: Quiterio Patricia Lorena , Carvalho Rodrigo Limonge Reis
Published: October 2024

As medidas protetivas adotadas para impedir o avanço da COVID-19 demandaram diversas adaptações, entre elas o isolamento social. Tais mudanças impactaram nos atendimentos presenciais prestados por profissionais de Psicologia, exigindo, também, uma resposta rápida das instituições de ensino, que precisaram se adaptar ao novo cenário, aderindo ao modelo de ensino emergencial remoto. Este artigo tem por objetivo descrever a experiência sobre uma disciplina, no formato remoto, acerca da terapia online infantil na abordagem cognitivo-comportamental, desenvolvida em uma turma de graduação em Psicologia de uma universidade pública. Participaram 37 estudantes universitários, com idade entre 21 e 30 anos. Foi aplicado um instrumento de pré e pós-teste e seis atividades avaliativas processuais. Os resultados mostraram que a disciplina cumpriu a função de compartilhar conhecimentos e discutir a aplicabilidade da terapia online infantil, além de refletir em relação às vantagens e desvantagens desse formato. A realização dessa disciplina contribui na ampliação da docência em contexto universitário atualizado às demandas sociais, bem como oferece espaços de discussão referentes à prática profissional do estudante de Psicologia.
Development of a 21st Century Based Mathematics Learning Model: A Validity Study on the Investigation-Construction Stages
Authors: Tampa Alimuddin , Ja’faruddin Ja’faruddin , Ikram Muhammad , Firdaus Andi Mulawakkan
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop a valid and theoretically sound 21st century skills-based mathematics learning model. Plomp's research and development theory and Nieveen's criteria were used to ensure the quality and reliability of the model. The model development process includes Initial Investigation, Design, and Realization/Construction. Data were collected from six schools through various instruments such as observation sheets, documents, 21st century skills tests, and interview guides. Model validation involved the participation of five experts. A blended data analysis approach was used to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the findings. The result of this study is a 21st century skills-based mathematics learning model named Model 21-BML. The model consists of five interconnected core components: Learning Syntax, Social System, Reaction Principles, Support System, and Instructional and Accompanying Impacts. The uniqueness of this model lies in the seven integrated learning trajectories: Object translation, decomposition, cognitive construction, cognitive development, communication, reflection, and extension. After going through a rigorous validation process, the five experts confirmed the high validity of the 21-BML Model. This model not only enhances innovative mathematics learning theory, but also provides practical alternatives for mathematics teachers to encourage the development of 21st century skills in students. The model is expected to make a significant contribution in bridging the gap between traditional mathematics education and the competency demands of the modern era, as well.
Preferences of Pre-service Teachers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Education
Authors: Bieliková Michaela
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to find out the preferences of students (150) in the first year of the study of the Preschool and Primary Education programme. The data was collected using a questionnaire in the first seminar focusing on science content (a course called Science Propaedeutics) to determine the preferences of pre-service teachers. The aim was to find out the (un)popularity of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education covering the subjects of Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Technology and Chemistry in Slovakia. The results showed that students are interested in science education. The findings also showed that students prefer more biological topics (humans and plants) and less physics, chemistry, and mathematics. They also preferred topics that they knew from everyday life. The results revealed a negative correlation between students' concerns about teaching science in their future practice and their interest in science education. We found it necessary to connect the topics to everyday life and avoid mathematical calculations. So we can increase their interest in these areas/issues in the Science Propaedeutics course.
An Analysis of Research Trends on Socio-Scientific Issues in Science Education over Two Decades from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Özel Murat
Published: October 2024

This paper examined socio-scientific issues-related literature in science education over the past two decades, from 2004 to 2023, to enhance researchers' understanding of research trends. To this end, the Scopus database was utilized to search for articles on socio-scientific issues published from 2004 to 2023. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 288 articles were chosen for the data collection. The analysis was conducted utilizing VOSviewer software. The results show that the number of articles on socio-scientific issues in science education is steadily increasing. The most substantial growth in the number of articles was recorded in the last four years before 2024. The United States is the leader in the publication of articles. The number of citations demonstrates that the United States, Germany, and Sweden are the leading countries. The ten journals with the highest citations are ranked in the Q1 category. The research trends identified five clusters: a) decision-making, b) decision-making and argumentation practices, c) climate change, d) inquiry-based learning and the nature of science, and e) scientific literacy. Furthermore, the findings show that recent research in the context of socio-scientific issues has focused on STEM education. In light of the findings, I propose recommendations for future research.
The Interbellum Constitution
Authors: LaCroix Alison L.
Published: October 2024

Between 1815 and 1861, American constitutional law and politics underwent a profound transformation. A foundational period of both constitutional crisis and creativity, these decades were the era of the Interbellum Constitution.
The Interbellum Constitution was a set of widely shared legal and political principles, combined with a thoroughgoing commitment to investing meaning in those principles through debate. The principles were commerce, concurrent power, and jurisdictional multiplicity, all of which contemporaries grouped under the heading of “commercial union.” The debates took place in many arenas: newspapers, private letters, legislative chambers, and the courtroom, including lawyers’ arguments and judges’ opinions.
Each of these issues concerned what would now be called “federalism”—the relationships among multiple levels of government with varying degrees of autonomy. A core claim of this book, however, is that there existed many more federalisms, plural, in the early nineteenth century than today’s constitutional debates admit. This book does not offer a genealogy of a static concept. It seeks to recover and interpret debates in which meaning was created, not to engage in retrospective diagnoses of discovery.
The book upends the conventional story of the period as a hiatus between the “real” constitutional moments of the founding and Reconstruction. The standard account is incorrect because it fails to account for the actual historical reality of American constitutional debate—what the book terms “the landscape of constitutional possibility”—between the founding era and the Civil War.
The Constitutional Lawyer in the Long Founding Moment
Authors: LaCroix Alison L.
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines the role of lawyers, both as courtroom advocates and as men of letters, in shaping the Interbellum Constitution. Early-nineteenth-century Americans viewed themselves as cast adrift as the members of the founding generation died. They worried that the meaning of the Constitution might be impossible for them to comprehend without their elders as guides. The problem of concurrent power was especially vexing to them. The creativity of interbellum lawyers, such as Attorney General William Wirt, lay in their ability to generate legal precedents, and to do so with a verve that made them speak to a broad popular audience. In an era in which Supreme Court arguments extended for days, the courtroom offered legal theatre and public spectacle. Constitutional interpretation also flourished in the executive branch during this period, in particular in the Cabinet. Arguments in these varied settings were speech acts in which constitutional meaning was created. The arena was public, and the professional and social stakes were high. As a matter of intellectual history, lawyers’ arguments offer a window into the arguments that contemporaries viewed as the most compelling ones. This chapter draws on leading statesmen’s personal correspondence, literary writings, and legal notes to limn the settings in which interbellum constitutional debates unfolded.