bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broad Next-Generation Integrated Sequencing of Myelofibrosis Identifies Disease-Specific and Age-Related Genomic Alterations
Authors: Kandarpa Malathi , Robinson Dan , Wu Yi-Mi , Qin Tingting , Pettit Kristen , Li Qing , Luker Gary , Sartor Maureen , Chinnaiyan Arul , Talpaz Moshe
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are characterized by the overproduction of differentiated myeloid cells. Mutations in JAK2, CALR, and MPL are considered drivers of Bcr-Abl−ve MPN, including essential thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV), prefibrotic primary myelofibrosis (prePMF), and overt myelofibrosis (MF). However, how these driver mutations lead to phenotypically distinct and/or overlapping diseases is unclear.

Experimental Design:

To compare the genetic landscape of MF to ET/PV/PrePMF, we sequenced 1,711 genes for mutations along with whole transcriptome RNA sequencing of 137 patients with MPN.

Results:

In addition to driver mutations, 234 and 74 genes were found to be mutated in overt MF (N = 106) and ET/PV/PrePMF (N = 31), respectively. Overt MF had more mutations compared with ET/PV/prePMF (5 vs. 4 per subject, P = 0.006). Genes frequently mutated in MF included high-risk genes (ASXL1, SRSF2, EZH2, IDH1/2, and U2AF1) and Ras pathway genes. Mutations in NRAS, KRAS, SRSF2, EZH2, IDH2, and NF1 were exclusive to MF. Advancing age, higher DIPSS, and poor overall survival (OS) correlated with increased variants in MF. Ras mutations were associated with higher leukocytes and platelets and poor OS. The comparison of gene expression showed upregulation of proliferation and inflammatory pathways in MF. Notably, ADGRL4, DNASE1L3, PLEKHGB4, HSPG2, MAMDC2, and DPYSL3 were differentially expressed in hematopoietic stem and differentiated cells.

Conclusions:

Our results illustrate that evolution of MF from ET/PV/PrePMF likely advances with age, accumulation of mutations, and activation of proliferative pathways. The genes and pathways identified by integrated genomics approach provide insight into disease transformation and progression and potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
TABLE 2 from Estrogen Receptor Mutations as Novel Targets for Immunotherapy in Metastatic Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Goldberg Jonathan , Qiao Na , Guerriero Jennifer L. , Gross Brett , Meneksedag Yagiz , Lu Yoshimi F. , Philips Anne V. , Rahman Tasnim , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Roszik Jason , Chen Ken , Jeselsohn Rinath , Tolaney Sara M. , Peoples George E. , Alatrash Gheath , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Stability of candidate peptides to HLA-A*0201
TABLE 1 from Estrogen Receptor Mutations as Novel Targets for Immunotherapy in Metastatic Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Goldberg Jonathan , Qiao Na , Guerriero Jennifer L. , Gross Brett , Meneksedag Yagiz , Lu Yoshimi F. , Philips Anne V. , Rahman Tasnim , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Roszik Jason , Chen Ken , Jeselsohn Rinath , Tolaney Sara M. , Peoples George E. , Alatrash Gheath , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Identification of candidate ESR1-derived peptides
FIGURE 4 from Estrogen Receptor Mutations as Novel Targets for Immunotherapy in Metastatic Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Goldberg Jonathan , Qiao Na , Guerriero Jennifer L. , Gross Brett , Meneksedag Yagiz , Lu Yoshimi F. , Philips Anne V. , Rahman Tasnim , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Roszik Jason , Chen Ken , Jeselsohn Rinath , Tolaney Sara M. , Peoples George E. , Alatrash Gheath , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Expanded CD8+ T cells demonstrate antigen-specific cytotoxicity. T2 cells were pulsed with corresponding peptides and labeled with calcein-AM. Cytotoxicity was determined by a standard calcein-AM release assay. Wildtype-1 (A), E380Q (B), Wildtype-2 (C), Y537S (D), D538G (E). Non-pulsed T2 cells were used as negative controls. Statistical significance was determined via unpaired Student t test. Data represent the average of three to four experiments from separate healthy female donors run in triplicate. *, P < 0.05; ***, P < 0.001.
FIGURE 2 from Estrogen Receptor Mutations as Novel Targets for Immunotherapy in Metastatic Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Goldberg Jonathan , Qiao Na , Guerriero Jennifer L. , Gross Brett , Meneksedag Yagiz , Lu Yoshimi F. , Philips Anne V. , Rahman Tasnim , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Roszik Jason , Chen Ken , Jeselsohn Rinath , Tolaney Sara M. , Peoples George E. , Alatrash Gheath , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Kinetics of peptide: HLA-A*0201 dissociation. T2 cells were pulsed with indicated peptides for 8–12 hours, washed, and then stained for surface HLA-A*0201 expression at indicated timepoints for wildtype-1 and E380Q (A), wildtype-2 and Y537S (B), wildtype-2 and D538G (C). MFI for each timepoint was normalized to initial staining (time = 0). Linear regression analysis was used to plot lines of best fit for each individual peptide, and half-life for each peptide is shown in Table 2. Data are pooled from three independent experiments performed in triplicate.
Supplementary Table S5 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Binding coverage of BMS-986351 across the six major SIRPα haplotypes
Supplementary Table S3 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Inhibition of CD47–SIRPα binding by serially-diluted BMS-986351, as determined by surface plasmon resonance
Supplementary Table S2 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Binding affinity of SIRPα, SIRPβ, and SIRPγ, as determined by surface plasmon resonance
Supplementary Figure S5 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Lack of BMS-986351 effect on NK-mediated ADCC of tumors cells (A), autologous normal monocytes and unactivated CD4 cells (B), and autologous ADCP activity on monocytes and T cells (C).
Pajak Daerah dan Retribusi Daerah dalam Kebijakan Hubungan Keuangan Pusat dan Daerah
Authors: Anggoro Damas Dwi , Indriani Indriani , Hikmat R. An An Andri
Published: February 2024

Hadirnya Undang-Undang Nomor 1 Tahun 2022 Tentang Hubungan Keuangan Pemerintah Pusat dan Pemerintahan Daerah (UU HKPD) membuat teori dan kebijakan Pajak Daerah dan Retribusi Daerah dari literatur yang sudah ada menjadi tidak lagi relevan sehingga buku ini berusaha merespons kebijakan dalam UU HKPD tersebut. Seperti teori opsen pajak atau secara teori dikenal sebagai piggyback tax. Selain itu, penulis juga menambahkan strategi penggalian potensi pendapatan asli daerah dan isu-isu kontemporer pajak daerah dan retribusi daerah.
Matematika Optimasi: Metode dan Penerapan
Authors: Fanani Angga Akbar , Sugiono S , Swara Suluh Elman
Published: February 2024

Dunia yang semakin maju dan berkembang menjadikan kebutuhan akan produk industri menjadi makin besar. Hal ini tidak dibarengi dengan ketersediaan sumber daya baik sebagai bahan baku maupun sumber daya pendukung. Kondisi ini tentunya menciptakan keterbatasan pada sebuah sistem industri. Mempertimbangkan besarnya aspekpembatas (constraint) maka seorang perancang sistem harus dapat merancang konfigurasi optimal dari suatu sistem yang memungkinkan pencapaian keluaran yang optimal (bisa berupa maksimasi maupun minimasi) mempertimbangkan semua keterbatasan yang ada.
Quem canta, seus males espanta! Performance e criação musical em tempos de SARS-Cov2
Authors: Valente Heloísa de Araujo Duarte
Published: February 2024

A pandemia, gerada pelo SARS-COV2, impôs novas maneiras de escuta e prática musical. Artistas de palco foram obrigados a buscar formas alternativas para permanecerem em atividade. Analisam-se, neste trabalho, duas situações: uma delas, em que os músicos (profissionais ou amadores) passam a se valer das lives para realizar produzir e realizar seu show/concerto; a outra situação é quando os músicos usam a sacada ou a “varanda gourmet” de sua casa para ter contato direto com o seu público. Estudam-se, em ambos os casos, as variantes nas modalidades da performance (ao vivo, ou pré-gravada), com a presença física ou mediatizada tecnicamente (cf. Zumthor, 1997). Interroga-se: como se delineiam estratégias de manutenção de comunicação dos artistas com seu público, tendo em conta as condições atípicas de transmissão da mensagem poética?
A sonoridade do LP "Coisas": auralidade e visualidade na obra de Moacir Santos
Authors: Gomes Fábio Lima Marinho
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho analisa a sonoridade do LP Coisas (1965), de Moacir Santos (1926 – 2006), enfocando aspectos rítmicos, instrumentais, formais e harmônicos, percebidos por meio de audições e transcrições dos fonogramas. Em complemento à análise dos componentes musicais, também são abordados os aspectos visuais do LP. Esses dados e as análises produzidas a partir deles objetivam estabelecer conexões entres os aspectos aurais e visuais do disco. Desse modo, a pesquisa busca apresentar um conjunto de evidências com potencial para contribuir criticamente na reflexão sobre as possibilidades de escuta e compreensão da obra de Santos, explorando a noção de dupla dimensão que envolve o LP, articulada nos âmbitos aurais e visuais.
Trio Pó-de-Serra: revirando as entranhas da tradição
Authors: Ciacchi Matteo
Published: February 2024

O Trio Pó-de-Serra, formado em João Pessoa em 2019, mescla elementos do forró e da improvisação livre, gêneros musicais com características mutuamente contraditórias. No processo de criação da performance do grupo, entram em choque elementos conceituais sobre como pensamos e definimos gênero musical, além de um meticuloso trabalho de exploração instrumental. Nesse trabalho, exploramos em detalhe ambas as dimensões abarcadas pela produção do grupo.
Oxytelus acriculiclypeatus, a New Species of Oxytelus Gravenhorst, 1802 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Oxytelinae) from Borneo
Authors: LÜ LIANG
Published: February 2024

A new species, Oxytelus acriculiclypeatus sp. nov., is described from Malaysia (Borneo: Sabah). The species is similar to O. megaceros Fauvel, 1895, but can be separated based on four male features: a more pointed tip on the anterior margin of the clypeus, a wider central plate on the posterior margin of sternite VIII with a carina that spans the entire width of the posterior margin of medial plate, two sharper and thinner projections on the apical orifice, and the apico-medial hook with a smaller apical tip but without the connecting scape. As a result, a total of 31 confirmed species have been recorded in Southeast Asia hitherto.
Attribution of Moisture Sources for Summer Precipitation in the Upstream Catchment of the Three Gorges Dam
Authors: Shao Shuaibing , Zeng Xin-Min , Wang Ning , Ullah Irfan , Lv Haishen
Published: February 2024

Currently, there is a lack of investigating moisture sources for precipitation over the upstream catchment of the Three Gorges Dam (UCTGD), the world’s largest dam. Using the dynamical recycling model (DRM), trajectory frequency method (TFM), and the Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), this study quantifies moisture sources and transport paths for UCTGD summer precipitation from 1980 to 2009 based on two categories of sources: region-specific and source-direction. Overall, the land and oceanic sources contribute roughly 63% and 37%, respectively, of the moisture to UCTGD summer precipitation. UCTGD and the Indian Ocean are the most important land and oceanic sources, respectively, in which the southern Indian Ocean with over 10% of moisture contribution was overlooked previously. Under the influence of the Asian monsoon and prevailing westerlies, the land contribution decreases to 57.3% in June, then gradually increases to 68.8%. It is found that for drought years with enhanced southwest monsoon, there is a weakening of the moisture contribution from the C-shaped belt along the Arabian Sea, South Asia, and UCTGD, and vice versa. TFM results show three main moisture transport paths and highlight the importance of moisture from the southwest. Comparison analysis indicates that, generally, sink regions are more affected by land evaporation with their locations more interior to the center of the mainland. Furthermore, correlations between moisture contributions and indices of general circulation and sea surface temperature are investigated, suggesting that these indices affect precipitation by influencing moisture contributions of the subregions. All of these are useful for comprehending the causes of summer UCTGD precipitation.

Significance Statement

Quantitative research on the moisture sources of summer precipitation has been implemented for the upstream catchment of the Three Gorges Dam (UCTGD), which is of particular hydrological significance but has not been investigated previously. The dynamical recycling model (DRM)–trajectory frequency method (TFM) approach is used to quantify and interpret the results of the moisture sources both in different specific subregions and directions, which produce more meaningful results than a single method for the areal division of moisture sources. Furthermore, antecedent indices that significantly influence the following moisture contributions of the subregions and then summer UCTGD precipitation are studied in terms of large-scale general circulation indices, which would help our understanding of precipitation forecast for UCTGD.
Climate institutions matter: The challenges of making gender-sensitive and inclusive climate policies
Authors: Magnusdottir Gunnhildur Lily , Kronsell Annica
Published: February 2024

Climate institutions such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), with its expert panel the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and the European Union, as well as national and local authorities in various sectors (such as transport, industry, energy, and agriculture), play a central role in developing and enacting climate strategies. Climate institutions, particularly in the Global North, have however been slow in their recognition of gender and other climate-relevant social aspects. With the help of feminist institutionalism, we analyze the contemporary climate regime and how it deals with gender and social differences, asking how climate institutions, originating in the Global North, organize bodies and institutionalize gender norms and relations. The main aim is to highlight existing institutional inertia and obstacles to transformative institutional practices that are needed for just and inclusive climate policies. The article is conceptual with examples drawn from institutional literature as well as empirical research on the United Nations, the European Union, and states in the Global North. We conclude that there is an increasing recognition of the gendered effects of climate change particularly in terms of the need for diverse representation in decision making. Institutional inertia, in particular path-dependent policy-making in climate institutions, however makes gender often invisible or associated with women only and therefore remains a major obstacle for the realization of inclusive and equal climate policies.
Perspectives on UX Practices for American Entrepreneurs: A Survey of User Engagement Approaches to Innovation
Authors: Weber Ryan , Spartz John
Published: February 2024

This article explores how entrepreneurs engage users in innovation in order to identify collaboration opportunities between entrepreneurship and technical and professional communication (TPC) scholars interested in user experience (UX). This article surveyed American entrepreneurs (N = 100) asking when and how they involve users in product development. The results suggest that most entrepreneurs do engage users to drive innovation and understand their markets, but do so largely through informal means. Our research suggests that UX can serve as a connection point for TPC scholars and entrepreneurs, especially if TPC emphasizes the role of UX in innovation and offers entrepreneurs efficient yet reliable user-research methodologies.
A Comparison of Police Use of Force by Male and Female Officers in Canada: Rates, Modalities, Effectiveness, and Injuries
Authors: Sheppard Jennifer , Khanizadeh Ariane-Jade , Baldwin Simon , Bennell Craig
Published: February 2024

Research has reported inconsistent findings with respect to how female and male police officers use force. This study examined this issue in a Canadian context. Use of force data over 9 years were collected from a large Canadian police agency. The results demonstrated that, overall, female officers used force less frequently than male officers relative to the number of female and male officers within the participating police agency. Female officers had lower odds of using physical control “hard” options (e.g., stuns and strikes) and higher odds of using intermediate weapons (e.g., conducted energy weapon) compared with male officers. Female officers also generally reported less effectiveness, more injuries to themselves, and fewer injuries to subjects related to their use of force compared with male officers. Literature on police use of force and social role theory are used to help explain the findings, and recommendations for improving outcomes in police–public interactions are suggested.
Optimal structure identification of bilinear-Laguerre model from input/output observations
Authors: Touzia Rim , Ben Njima Chakib , Garna Tarek
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes a new approach to identify an optimal structure with respect to the truncating orders of the new nonlinear bilinear-Laguerre model. This latter is used to describe a nonlinear system with a parametric complexity reduction resulting from the expansion of the bilinear model on independent and orthonormal Laguerre bases. The proposed structural identification approach is investigated to guarantee from input/output observations a more accurate model approximation of the system with significant parameter reduction. This is achieved by identifying the optimal truncating orders characterizing the model’s structure. This approach is based only on the filtered input/output of the system by defining a specific matrix, which becomes singular when the truncating orders are close to their optimal values. According to the matrix singularity of the specific matrix by varying the truncating orders, we propose a structural identification algorithm where an estimation indicator is considered to achieve the optimal structure identification. This technique allows us to calculate the optimal truncating orders where the noise influence is studied. It is tested in numerical examples based on the bilinear-Laguerre model with a variable structure by changing the value of the truncating orders. As well, experimental validation is retained on a 2-degree-of-freedom (DoF) helicopter system. Simulation and experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed optimal structure identification approach.
Common femoral vein wall thickness measurement by Doppler ultrasonography is an accurate diagnostic test for Behçet’s Disease both in supine and standing positions
Authors: Ergelen Rabia , Kutluğ Ağaçkıran Seda , Direskeneli Haner , Alibaz-Oner Fatma
Published: February 2024

Objectives

We recently reported the first controlled Doppler ultrasonography (US) study demonstrating increased common femoral vein (CFV) thickness in Behçet’s Disease (BD). Standard lower extremity venous Doppler US is performed in erect position. In order to confirm accuracy and applicability of method, we measured CFV thickness in both supine and standing positions in this study.

Method

We included sex and age-matched 42 BD patients and 41 healthy controls (HCs). After routine visits, bilateral CFV thickness was measured with Doppler US both in supine and standing positions.

Results

Bilateral CFV thickness was significantly higher in BD than in HC. There were no statistically significant differences in measurements of CFV wall thickness between standing and supine positions in both groups.

Conclusions

CFV measurement by Doppler US is a new and non-invasive diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of BD. Our study confirmed that patient position does not affect CFV wall thickness measurement for diagnosis of BD.
Fear of Crime and Terrorism Among Backpackers: Is There a Relationship Between Country of Origin and Trip Location?
Authors: Shechory Bitton Mally , Bonny-Noach Hagit
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to compare fear of terrorism and fear of crime among backpackers and investigate the differences between Israeli and Western backpackers. A cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 120 Israeli backpackers and 109 backpackers from Western countries. Findings showed no significant differences in fear of crime between the groups, with 40% reporting exposure to crime in their home country. Israeli backpackers had higher exposure to terrorism events. While most backpackers did not experience harm during their trip, they reported higher levels of fear of crime while traveling. Israeli backpackers expressed greater fear of terrorism in their home country, while the Western group reported higher fear levels during their trip. These findings suggest the need for safer messaging and the provision of anti-crime and anti-terror information by tourism industry stakeholders and government agencies. Further research is required, particularly in understanding the impact of terrorism on travelers from diverse backgrounds.
Tensile strength analysis of sandwich composite-to-metal joints based on experimental investigation and progressive failure method
Authors: Ke Zhengyu , Li Xiaobin , Xu Zhiting , Shen Wei , Xu Lin , Qiu Yu , Li Mengzhen
Published: February 2024

In this study, the tensile strength characteristics of the hybrid sandwich composite-to-metal specimen consisting of two steel I-beams and a T-shaped sandwich composite structure were studied. The tensile strength of the sandwich hybrid joints under design load and ultimate load has been tested. The progressive failure model is established according to the modified Shokrieh-Hashin criterion. The interface cohesive zone model is applied to reveal the damage development of the bonding layer. The stresses, strains, ultimate strength, and main damage modes of the hybrid joint under design load and ultimate load conditions are simulated and the predicted results are compared with those from tests. The experimental and numerical results show that the strain, the trend of load-displacement curves and the damage modes are in good agreement. The strength of matrix is the main factor limiting ultimate strength. Therefore, the influences of the overlapping width and thickness on ultimate bearing capacity were analyzed to obtain the optimized structural strength of the sandwich composite-to-metal bolted joints.
Effects of the Omaha System- and HeartScore®-Based Impaired-Risk Perception Reduction Program on the Risk Perception of Individuals Aged 50–65 Years: A One-Group Pre-Test–Post-Test Study
Authors: Akgöz Ayşe Dağıstan , Gözüm Sebahat
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study evaluates the impact of interventions in the Omaha System and HeartScore®-based program to reduce impaired-risk perception.

Design

and setting: This study utilized a one-group pre-test–post-test design.

Subjects

The program was conducted among participants aged over 50 years from different social settings.

Intervention

The program had three parts: a briefing on HeartScore® recommendations, Omaha System interventions, and referral to a doctor.

Measures

HeartScore® determined cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, body mass index (BMI) was calculated from height and weight, and the International PA Questionnaire evaluated physical activity (PA) levels. Self-assessment was used to perceived CVD risk, BMI, and PA.

Analysis

We used the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare the pre-test and post-test scores of the Omaha System, the problem rating scale (PRS) subscales and McNemar test to measure changes in CVD risk perception, BMI, and PA level.

Results

310 high-risk individuals out of 522 had impaired perception of their CVD risk. Only 201 responded to follow-up phone calls. Interventions based on HeartScore® and Omaha System improved CVD risk and PA perceptions ( P < .001) but not BMI. The program significantly increased knowledge, status, and behavior scores ( P < .001). After participating, 39% saw a cardiologist, and 57.2% saw a family physician within six months to reduce impaired risk perception. CVD risk perception increased to the actual level after the intervention, mostly in the group with low education level.

Conclusions

The program using the Omaha System and HeartScore® can help middle-aged individuals better understand their risk of cardiovascular disease.
Causes of Police Officer Career Apprehension Following George Floyd
Authors: Rossler Michael T. , Scheer Charles
Published: February 2024

Police workforce retention has become a persistent managerial concern. The public response to recent events of police misconduct have fuelled the perception that police may be seeking other career paths following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Despite growing evidence, current research has been unable to ascertain what conditions may prompt officers to voluntarily separate from police work following Floyd’s murder, or whether the impact varies across demographic groups. Drawing upon a survey of over 600 police officers across eight police departments in the United States, the current inquiry examines what percent of officers reported reconsidering their career following the George Floyd incident, and whether demographic information and occupational attitudes could predict whether officers reconsidered their careers. Findings indicated that female officers were more likely to strongly agree that it made them reconsider their careers, and that instrumental concerns (i.e., public support, personal liability, localized fallout, and concern over media attention) were also influential.
Expert eValuation of Efficacy and Rationality of Vildagliptin “EVER-Vilda”: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Kalra Sanjay , Zargar Abdul Hamid , Sridhar GR , Das Ashok Kumar , Ahmed Jamal , Mohan Jagdish Chander , Vijayakumar G , Kumar Ajay , Sahay Rakesh Kumar , Ayer Vageesh , Pandit Kaushik , Bantwal Ganapathi , Srinivas Arun , Unnikrishnan AG , Jindal Sushil , Ray Saumitra , Baruah Manash P , Ganguly Kajal , Mittal Sachin , Joshi Ameya , George Joe , HK Ganesh , Kapoor Nitin , Ramakrishnan Santosh , Shah Chetan , Dhingra Atul , Sharma Balram
Published: February 2024

Vildagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor is effective in reducing HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) when administered as monotherapy, dual or triple combination therapy. In India, Vildagliptin is commonly prescribed in T2DM patients because it reduces mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE), has lower risk of hypoglycemia and is weight neutral. Early combination therapy with vildagliptin and metformin is effective and well-tolerated in patients with T2DM, regardless of age or ethnicity. In view of already existing data on vildagliptin and the latest emerging clinical evidence, a group of endocrinologists, diabetologists and cardiologists convened for an expert group meeting to discuss the role and various combinations of vildagliptin in T2DM management. This practical document aims to guide Physicians and Specialists regarding the different available strengths and formulations of vildagliptin for the initiation and intensification of T2DM therapy.
Patients with repeated acute admissions to somatic departments: sociodemographic characteristics, disease burden, and contact with primary healthcare sector – a retrospective register-based case–control study
Authors: Leth Sara V. , Graversen Susanne B. , Lisby Marianne , StØvring Henrik , SandbÆk Annelli
Published: February 2024

Background:

Healthcare systems face escalating capacity challenges and patients with repeated acute admissions strain hospital resources disproportionately. However, studies investigating the characteristics of such patients across all public healthcare providers in a universal healthcare system are lacking.

Objective:

To investigate characteristics of patients with repeated acute admissions (three or more acute admissions within a calendar year) in regard to sociodemographic characteristics, disease burden, and contact with the primary healthcare sector.

Methods:

This matched register-based case–control study investigated repeated acute admissions from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2018, among individuals, who resided in four Danish municipalities. The study included 6169 individuals with repeated acute admissions, matched 1:4 to individuals with no acute admissions and one to two acute admissions, respectively. Group comparisons were conducted using conditional logistic regression.

Results:

Receiving social benefits increased the odds of repeated acute admissions 9.5-fold compared with no acute admissions (odds ratio (OR) 9.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.5; 10.6) and 3.4-fold compared with one to two acute admissions (OR 3.4; 95% CI 3.1; 3.7). The odds of repeated acute admissions increased with the number of used medications and chronic diseases. Having a mental illness increased the odds of repeated acute admissions 5.8-fold when compared with no acute admissions (OR 5.7; 95% CI 5.2; 6.4) and 2.3-fold compared with one to two acute admissions (OR 2.3; 95% CI 2.1; 2.5). Also, high use of primary sector services (e.g. nursing care) increased the odds of repeated acute admissions when compared with no acute admissions and one to two acute admissions.

Conclusions:

This study pinpointed key factors encompassing social status, disease burden, and healthcare utilisation as pivotal markers of risk for repeated acute admissions, thus identifying high-risk patients and facilitating targeted intervention.
Gaza in plain sight: witnessing in solidarity
Authors: Kerbaj Mazen , Traboulsi Jana , Maasri Zeina , Toukan Hanan
Published: February 2024

In this visual essay, Mazen Kerbaj and Jana Traboulsi bear witness to the genocidal violence that has been unfolding in Gaza since 7 October 2023. From Berlin and Lebanon, respectively, Kerbaj and Traboulsi have been chronicling and responding to the harrowing day-to-day news and testimonies from Gaza. Their drawings raise fundamental questions about what it is to bear witness to genocide as it unfolds, about the politics of seeing as an act of solidarity against imposed invisibility and about racialized sight – the eye that refuses to see what is hiding in plain sight.
Faithful and fearful: Does religion promote or reduce fear of crime in Germany?
Authors: Steinmann Jan-Philip
Published: February 2024

This article complements existing victimological studies on religion by investigating whether religion promotes or reduces fear of crime in Germany. According to the generalized insecurity approach and the theory of social production functions, religion and fear of crime are linked via secularization-induced diffuse insecurities. It is expected that different facets of religion are tied to fearing crime in different ways because the projection of secularization-induced diffuse insecurities occurs only among those individuals whose religious capital is devaluated. Empirical analyses of data from the 2021 German General Social Survey reveal that some religious minority groups are particularly likely to fear crime, religious belief is positively related to fearing crime, and religious behavior is negatively associated with fearing crime. Additionally, religion can promote fear of crime equally in East and West Germany. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the significance of religion in relation to the fear of crime and underscores the benefits of a general theoretical approach.
(Un)rest in revolution: Beijing’s Eight Treasures Mountain (Babaoshan) Revolutionary Cemetery and the making of China’s national memory
Authors: Vu Linh D
Published: February 2024

In 1950, the People’s Republic of China began transforming the Eight Treasures Mountain ( Babaoshan) into a national cemetery for its highest-ranking cadres and most devoted supporters. This article advances our understanding of how the People’s Republic of China revolutionizes the way it uses the dead to legitimize its rule over the living. While the People’s Republic of China seeks to erase the Imperial and Republican past, it follows its predecessors in shaping national memory by creating a sacred site for the loyal dead. Furthermore, despite atheist self-proclamation, the People’s Republic of China relies on traditional beliefs and practices to memorialize its dead members. The state’s attempts to shape national memory through these means have not been without resistance from the bereaved families, particularly under controversial circumstances. Besides these unsettled conflicts, the People’s Republic of China faces the challenges posed by a growing number of the dead. The People’s Republic of China tries to manage its necro-constituents by turning to information technology and eco-burial.
Large language models: a primer and gastroenterology applications
Authors: Shahab Omer , El Kurdi Bara , Shaukat Aasma , Nadkarni Girish , Soroush Ali
Published: February 2024

Over the past year, the emergence of state-of-the-art large language models (LLMs) in tools like ChatGPT has ushered in a rapid acceleration in artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. These powerful AI models can generate tailored and high-quality text responses to instructions and questions without the need for labor-intensive task-specific training data or complex software engineering. As the technology continues to mature, LLMs hold immense potential for transforming clinical workflows, enhancing patient outcomes, improving medical education, and optimizing medical research. In this review, we provide a practical discussion of LLMs, tailored to gastroenterologists. We highlight the technical foundations of LLMs, emphasizing their key strengths and limitations as well as how to interact with them safely and effectively. We discuss some potential LLM use cases for clinical gastroenterology practice, education, and research. Finally, we review critical barriers to implementation and ongoing work to address these issues. This review aims to equip gastroenterologists with a foundational understanding of LLMs to facilitate a more active clinician role in the development and implementation of this rapidly emerging technology.
Responsibility, sustainability, or environmental justice? Strategic communication and evolving expectations for stewardship and citizenship
Authors: Capizzo Luke , Luisi Monique
Published: February 2024

This conceptual paper analyzes the definitions and the explicit and implicit relationships among Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and environmental justice. We explore their roles in public relations theory and practice. Furthermore, we suggest a path for articulating justice and equity more explicitly for future ESG communication. This synthesis leads to defining six equity strategies for ESG communication: Clarity, conflict, reflectiveness, community empowerment, and collaborative, justice-oriented outcomes.
Intentional Learning Theory: Validating Its Measurement
Authors: Mollman Sarah , Muckle Timothy J. , Martinez Margaret
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this article is to describe and analyze the psychometric properties of the Learning Orientation Questionnaire (LOQ), which have not been previously published. Psychometric validation involves the accumulation of proper empirical evidence to confirm measurement of the intended construct, and to justify the intended uses of the scales. LOQ is based upon the intentional learning theory, which is a comprehensive, holistic learning theory. Through the expertise of the LOQ’s developer, educational researcher, and psychometrician, this article presents evidence of LOQ’s reliability and validity according to published best practices for scale development and validation. LOQ is a reliable and valid instrument determining where learners fall along the learning orientation continuum. Education researchers can use this information to support learners to move upward on the learning orientation continuum, improving their inclination to learn, high-order thinking, and life-long learning.
Patient-Reported Experiences and Associated Factors in a Norwegian Radiotherapy Setting: An Explorative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Volungholen Sollid May Ingvild , Slaaen Marit , Danielsen Signe , Eilertsen Grethe , Kirkevold Øyvind
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Radiotherapy is the main treatment modality in cancer. There is sparse knowledge on how patients with cancer experience their radiotherapy trajectory, and which factors might be associated with patients’ experiences.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to explore how adults with cancer receiving radiotherapy evaluate the quality of their care, utilizing a patient-reported experience measure, and how patient- and service-related characteristics are associated with their evaluation.

Methods

An explorative cross-sectional study using a self-completed questionnaire to assess patients’ radiotherapy experiences was performed. Participants were recruited consecutively, within their last week of treatment, from two different hospitals in Norway from January 2021 to January 2022. Four hundred and eighty paper questionnaires were distributed to recruited patients, 240 at each hospital. Questionnaires were self-completed at home and returned by mail. The instrument person-centered coordinated care experience questionnaire (P3CEQ) was used. In addition to this, participants completed the European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and The Sense of Coherence 13 scale (SOC-13). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, parametric tests, and unadjusted/adjusted linear regression models were estimated.

Results

The study included 373 patients. Patients evaluated quality of care in terms of P3CEQ scores, with a mean score of 19.5 (standard deviation = 5.4). Lowest scores were identified in areas concerning person-centeredness and service coordination. There were no significant differences in P3CEQ scores between the younger and older groups. Having a partner and better SOC-13 scores were independently associated with the overall patient-reported experience score, whereas age was not.

Conclusion

Patient-reported experience scores indicate that improvements are needed in some areas, such as informing and involving patients in the planning and coordination of their care. Findings suggest paying special attention to patients without a partner to offer patients the best possible care.
Persistent ADAMTS13 inhibitor delays recovery of ADAMTS13 activity in caplacizumab-treated Japanese patients with iTTP
Authors: Saito Kenki , Sakai Kazuya , Kubo Masayuki , Azumi Hidekazu , Hamamura Atsushi , Ochi Shinichi , Amagase Hiroki , Kunieda Hisako , Ogawa Yoshiyuki , Yagi Hideo , Matsumoto Masanori
Published: February 2024

For patients with immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP), caplacizumab, a nanobody against von Willebrand factor A1 domain, has become crucial. Delayed normalization of ADAMTS13 activity during caplacizumab therapy has been identified. In a retrospective analysis, we compared platelet count, ADAMTS13 activity, its inhibitor, and anti-ADAMTS13 immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels in acute iTTP cases treated with caplacizumab (n = 14) or without it (n = 16). The median time from initial therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) to the first rituximab administration was 12 days in the caplacizumab group (n = 11) and 10 days in the group without caplacizumab (n = 13). We evaluated ADAMTS13-related parameters at onset and once a week until day 28 after the first TPE. The number of days until the platelet counts reached ≥150 × 109/L was significantly shorter in the caplacizumab group than in the non-caplacizumab group. The median ADAMTS13 activity levels on days 14, 21, and 28 were significantly lower in the caplacizumab group. The median titers of the ADAMTS13 inhibitor and anti-ADAMTS13 IgG on the same days were significantly higher in the caplacizumab group. Furthermore, the median number of days from the first TPE until finally achieving an ADAMTS13 activity of ≥10% was significantly longer in the caplacizumab group than in the non-caplacizumab group (42 vs 23 days, P = .014). We observed delayed ADAMTS13 activity recovery and continued inhibitor and anti-ADAMTS13 IgG detection in patients with acute iTTP on caplacizumab, possibly because of the decreased number of TPEs and delayed frontline rituximab.
Trends and predictors of antimicrobial resistance among patients with urinary tract infections at a tertiary hospital facility in Alexandria, Egypt: a retrospective record-based classification and regression tree analysis
Authors: Shaker Marian , Zaki Adel , Asser Sara Lofty , Sayed Iman El
Published: February 2024

Background

The incidence of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in uropathogens varies between countries and over time. We aim to study the patterns and potential predictors of AMR among patients with UTIs admitted to the Urology Department at Alexandria University Hospital.

Methods

An observational retrospective record-based study was conducted on all patients admitted to the Urology department from October 2018 to October 2020. Data collected from patients’ records included: demographic data, diagnosis on admission, history of chronic diseases, duration of hospital stay, insertion of a urinary catheter, duration of the catheter in days, history of the use of antibiotics in the previous three months, and history of urinary tract operations. If UTI was documented, we abstracted data about urine culture, use of antibiotics, results of urine cultures, type of organism isolated, and sensitivity to antibiotics. We conducted a multivariable logistic regression model. We performed Classification and Regression Tree Analysis (CART) for predicting risk factors associated with drug resistance among patients with UTI. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical package, Version 28.0, and R software (2022).

Results

This study encompassed 469 patients with UTIs. The most commonly isolated bacterium was Escherichia coli, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 67.7% (149/220) of patients with hospital-acquired UTIs and in 49.4% (83/168) of patients with community-acquired UTIs. Risk factors independently associated with antimicrobial resistance according to logistic regression analysis were the use of antibiotics within three months (AOR = 5.2, 95% CI 2.19–12.31), hospital-acquired UTI (AOR = 5.7, 95% CI 3.06–10.76), diabetes mellitus (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI 1.24–11.84), age over 60 years (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.27–6.72), and recurrent UTI (AOR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.08–6.20). Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis revealed that antibiotic use in the previous three months was the most significant predictor for developing drug resistance.

Conclusion

The study concluded a high level of antimicrobial resistance as well as significant MDR predictors among hospitalized patients with UTIs. It is vital to assess resistance patterns in our hospitals frequently to improve rational antibiotic treatment as well as to sustain antimicrobial stewardship programs and a rational strategy in the use of antibiotics. Empirical therapy for UTI treatment should be tailored to the potential pathogens’ susceptibility to ensure optimal treatment. Strategic antibiotic use is essential to prevent further AMR increases. Further research should focus on suggesting new biological systems or designed drugs to combat the resistance of UTI pathogens.
Mortality and associated factors among people living with HIV admitted at a tertiary-care hospital in Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Owachi Darius , Akatukunda Praise , Nanyanzi Diana Sarah , Katwesigye Rogers , Wanyina Shardrack , Muddu Martin , Kawuma Samuel , Kalema Nelson , Kabugo Charles , Semitala Fred C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Hospital admission outcomes for people living with HIV (PLHIV) in resource-limited settings are understudied. We describe in-hospital mortality and associated clinical-demographic factors among PLHIV admitted at a tertiary-level public hospital in Uganda.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of routinely collected data for PLHIV admitted at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital between March 2020 and March 2023. We estimated the proportion of PLHIV who had died during hospitalization and performed logistic regression modelling to identify predictors of mortality.

Results

Of the 5,827 hospitalized PLHIV, the median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR] 31–49) and 3,293 (56.51%) were female. The median CD4 + cell count was 109 cells/µL (IQR 25–343). At admission, 3,710 (63.67%) were active on antiretroviral therapy (ART); 1,144 (19.63%) had interrupted ART > 3 months and 973 (16.70%) were ART naïve. In-hospital mortality was 26% (1,524) with a median time-to-death of 3 days (IQR 1–7). Factors associated with mortality (with adjusted odds ratios) included ART interruption, 1.33, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.13–1.57, p 0.001; CD4 + counts ≤ 200 cells/µL 1.59, 95%CI 1.33–1.91, p < 0.001; undocumented CD4 + cell count status 2.08, 95%CI 1.73–2.50, p < 0.001; impaired function status 7.35, 95%CI 6.42–8.41, p < 0.001; COVID-19 1.70, 95%CI 1.22–2.37, p 0.002; liver disease 1.77, 95%CI 1.36–2.30, p < 0.001; co-infections 1.53, 95%CI 1.32–1.78, p < 0.001; home address > 20 km from hospital 1.23, 95%CI 1.04–1.46, p 0.014; hospital readmission 0.7, 95%CI 0.56–0.88, p 0.002; chronic lung disease 0.62, 95%CI 0.41–0.92, p 0.019; and neurologic disease 0.46, 95%CI 0.32–0.68, p < 0.001.

Conclusion

One in four admitted PLHIV die during hospitalization. Identification of risk factors (such as ART interruption, function impairment, low/undocumented CD4 + cell count), early diagnosis and treatment of co-infections and liver disease could improve outcomes.