bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Side effects of insecticides alone or in a mixture with acaricide on life history traits and demographic parameters of Brevipalpus yothersi
Authors: Vechia Jaqueline F Della , Kapp Ana Beatriz P , Rocha Claudiane M , Andrade Daniel J
Published: July 2023

Brevipalpus yothersi is an important pest to citrus crop due to its ability to transmit the virus that causes citrus leprosis. The exposure of target and non-target organisms to different pesticides is a reality in field conditions. For successful management, it is essential to determine the effects of citrus commonly used pesticides on leprosis mites to determine how pesticides can interfere with the leprosis mite population. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of insecticides, alone or associated with spirodiclofen, on B. yothersi life history traits and demographic parameters under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Results suggest that cypermethrin and imidacloprid, both alone and in a mixture with spirodiclofen, phosmet in a mix with spirodiclofen and spirodiclofen alone did not interfere significantly in the fecundity and fertility of B. yothersi in laboratory conditions. In the same condition, only phosmet at 15.6, 125.0, and 250.0 mg.L-1 reduced the fecundity of the mites. Brevipalpus yothersi population varied with the insecticide and mixture type in the greenhouse condition. Most insecticides and acaricide, alone or in a mixture, decreased pre-adult development, whereas female adult longevity was similar to control. Spirodiclofen combined with phosmet and imidacloprid decreased female adult longevity. Only spirodiclofen in a mixture with cypermethrin and phosmet alone did not interfere significantly with the intrinsic rate of population increase. The other insecticides and mixtures reduced that parameter. The mean time of one mite generation was decreased when the mites were exposed to all insecticides and acaricide combinations, spirodiclofen and phosmet alone. Therefore, cypermethrin, phosmet, imidacloprid, and spirodiclofen, alone or in a mixture, negatively impacted the development time and demographic parameters of B. yothersi.
Abortion bans and more disrupt retention and recruitment
Authors: Langin Katie
Published: July 2023

Amid U.S. political landscape, some academics face tough choices about where to work
Increasing the Frequency Resolution when Measuring Vibrations of Rotating Bodies with Fixed Beam Laser Vibrometry
Authors: Artelnyi V. V. , Rodionov A. A. , Stulenkov A. V.
Published: July 2023

Laser Doppler vibrometry is actively used in experimental studies because of its noncontact measurement technique. When using a stationary laser to measure the vibrations of rotating bodies and Fourier transform to process the results of such measurements, a problem arises, associated with a decrease in the frequency resolution of the spectra with increasing rotation rate of the body. As a result, at sufficiently high rotation rates, closely spaced discrete components may cease to be resolved. This paper proposes a method for solving such a problem using the least squares method. The operability of this processing method has been demonstrated on experimental data.
Reflective ability and its energy dependence
Authors: Troshin S. M. , Tyurin N. E.
Published: July 2023

We introduce the notion of reflective ability and discuss its energy dependence using rational form of unitarization. Correspondence with the phase of exponential unitarization is traced. Increase of the reflective ability of interaction region starts at the LHC energies. Numerical estimates are given.
Estimating Site Characteristic Parameters of the Gobi Desert Region Using Seismic Noise
Authors: Li Ya , Chen Shengyang , Lei Jie
Published: July 2023

In the Gobi desert region, the predominant frequency of the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) curve of seismic noise (

f

H
/
V

) is typically above 3 Hz. However, most of the existing formulas for estimating cover thickness (H) based on

f

H
/
V

are only applicable for

f

H
/
V

values below 5 Hz. Therefore, new formulas that can accurately calculate H in this region are crucially needed. To this end, a case study was conducted where noise measurements were carried out in the Gobi region in China, as well as in the east and northeast regions of China. The HVSR curves and

f

H
/
V

were calculated, and a formula that correlates

f

H
/
V

with H was derived. In addition, formulas that correlate with Vs20 (average shear-wave velocities to depth 20 m) and Vs30 (average shear-wave velocities to depth 30 m)

f

H
/
V

were fitted. The relationship between the site fundamental period (

T

s

) and

T

H
/
V

(

1
/

f

H
/
V

) was also investigated. Finally, by using all of the noise measurements and applying the derived relationships, a method for rapidly measuring the site type was proposed. The results showed that the equation for calculating H in this paper is highly reliable, with relative errors less than 30% compared to other researchers. The correlation between

f

H
/
V

and Vs30 was higher than that between

f

H
/
V

and Vs20. The accuracy rate of the proposed method for fast identification of ground types was greater than 80%.
Supplementary Table S5A from Clinical Activity and Exploratory Resistance Mechanism of Milademetan, an MDM2 Inhibitor, in Intimal Sarcoma with MDM2 Amplification: An Open-Label Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Shimizu Toshio , Kojima Yuki , Sudo Kazuki , Okuma Hitomi Sumiyoshi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Kohsaka Shinji , Sadachi Ryo , Hirakawa Akihiro , Yoshida Akihiko , Ando Reiko Makihara , Ueno Toshihide , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsui Naoko , Nakamura Kenichi , Yamamoto Noboru , Yonemori Kan
Published: July 2023

Whole-exome sequencing and RNA sequencing analyses of archived tumor tissue samples
Supplementary Table S3A-B from Clinical Activity and Exploratory Resistance Mechanism of Milademetan, an MDM2 Inhibitor, in Intimal Sarcoma with MDM2 Amplification: An Open-Label Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Shimizu Toshio , Kojima Yuki , Sudo Kazuki , Okuma Hitomi Sumiyoshi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Kohsaka Shinji , Sadachi Ryo , Hirakawa Akihiro , Yoshida Akihiko , Ando Reiko Makihara , Ueno Toshihide , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsui Naoko , Nakamura Kenichi , Yamamoto Noboru , Yonemori Kan
Published: July 2023

Pharmacokinetics
Supplementary Table S2 from Clinical Activity and Exploratory Resistance Mechanism of Milademetan, an MDM2 Inhibitor, in Intimal Sarcoma with MDM2 Amplification: An Open-Label Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Shimizu Toshio , Kojima Yuki , Sudo Kazuki , Okuma Hitomi Sumiyoshi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Kohsaka Shinji , Sadachi Ryo , Hirakawa Akihiro , Yoshida Akihiko , Ando Reiko Makihara , Ueno Toshihide , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsui Naoko , Nakamura Kenichi , Yamamoto Noboru , Yonemori Kan
Published: July 2023

Patient characteristics
Supplementary Figure S4A from Clinical Activity and Exploratory Resistance Mechanism of Milademetan, an MDM2 Inhibitor, in Intimal Sarcoma with MDM2 Amplification: An Open-Label Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Shimizu Toshio , Kojima Yuki , Sudo Kazuki , Okuma Hitomi Sumiyoshi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Kohsaka Shinji , Sadachi Ryo , Hirakawa Akihiro , Yoshida Akihiko , Ando Reiko Makihara , Ueno Toshihide , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsui Naoko , Nakamura Kenichi , Yamamoto Noboru , Yonemori Kan
Published: July 2023

Anti-tumor activity
Supplementary Figure S3 from Clinical Activity and Exploratory Resistance Mechanism of Milademetan, an MDM2 Inhibitor, in Intimal Sarcoma with MDM2 Amplification: An Open-Label Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Shimizu Toshio , Kojima Yuki , Sudo Kazuki , Okuma Hitomi Sumiyoshi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Kohsaka Shinji , Sadachi Ryo , Hirakawa Akihiro , Yoshida Akihiko , Ando Reiko Makihara , Ueno Toshihide , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsui Naoko , Nakamura Kenichi , Yamamoto Noboru , Yonemori Kan
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Dosing schedule in 11 patients
Figure S4 from Dual Blockade of EP2 and EP4 Signaling is Required for Optimal Immune Activation and Anti-Tumor Activity Against Prostaglandin-Expressing Tumors
Authors: Francica Brian J. , Holtz Anja , Lopez Justine M , Freund David , Chen Austin , Wang Dingzhi , Powell David , Kipper Franciele C , Panigrahy Dipak , DuBois Raymond N , Whiting Chan C. , Prasit Peppi , Dubensky Thomas W
Published: July 2023

TPST-1495 Displays T cell-independent anti-tumor efficacy in CT26.
Data from Synergism Between IL21 and Anti-PD-1 Combination Therapy is Underpinned by the Coordinated Reprogramming of the Immune Cellular Network in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Wu Shaoxian , Huang Hao , Sun Runzi , Gao David Shihong , Ye Fan , Huang Jianing , Li Ella , Ni Andrew , Lu Kevin GuoKai , Chen Kong , Jiang Jingting , Morel Penelope A. , Zhong Ziyang , Lu Binfeng
Published: July 2023

T cell–stimulating cytokines and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are an ideal combination for increasing response rates of cancer immunotherapy. However, the results of clinical trials have not been satisfying. It is important to understand the mechanism of synergy between these two therapeutic modalities. Here, through integrated analysis of multiple single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets of human tumor-infiltrating immune cells, we demonstrate that IL21 is produced by tumor-associated T follicular helper cells and hyperactivated/exhausted CXCL13+CD4+ T cells in the human tumor microenvironment (TME). In the mouse model, the hyperactivated/exhausted CD4+ T cell–derived IL21 enhances the helper function of CD4+ T cells that boost CD8+ T cell–mediated immune responses during PD-1 blockade immunotherapy. In addition, we demonstrated that IL21’s antitumor activity did not require T-cell trafficking. Using scRNA-seq analysis of the whole tumor-infiltrating immune cells, we demonstrated that IL21 treatment in combination with anti-PD-1 blockade synergistically drives tumor antigen–specific CD8+ T cells to undergo clonal expansion and differentiate toward the hyperactive/exhausted functional state in the TME. In addition, IL21 treatment and anti-PD-1 blockade synergistically promote dendritic cell (DC) activation and maturation to mature DC as well as monocyte to type 1 macrophage (M1) differentiation in the TME. Furthermore, the combined treatment reprograms the immune cellular network by reshaping cell-cell communication in the TME. Our study establishes unique mechanisms of synergy between IL21 and PD-1–based ICI in the TME through the coordinated promotion of type 1 immune responses.
Significance:
This study reveals how cytokine and checkpoint inhibitor therapy can be combined to increase the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
Pesquisas caleidoscópicas: modos de ver e criar
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Educação
Published: July 2023

Pesquisas Caleidoscópicas: modos de ver e criar trata-se de uma obra que é fruto de pesquisas de pós-doutoramento realizadas na Faculdade de Educação da Universidade de São Paulo (FEUSP). Compõe-se, portanto, de diferentes estudos direcionados ao vasto campo da educação. A metáfora do caleidoscópio para tratar do ato de pesquisar e suas produções remete aos diversos modos de ver e criar investigações nessa área, contemplando o desafio do(a) pesquisador(a) ao trafegar sobre linhas tênues, abrindo passagens e instaurando sentidos. O livro, composto por 19 capítulos, é dividido em três seções. Desenvolvimento Profissional e Formação Docente, cujos estudos abordam tópicos sobre os desafios da profissão professor, desde a educação básica ao ensino superior. Linguagens, Narrativas e Didáticas, com investigações que se debruçam sobre possíveis perspectivas, linguagens, técnicas e estratégias para realizar o ensino de diferentes disciplinas. Educação e Direitos Humanos, cujas pesquisas envolvem a discussão sobre políticas públicas, movimentos de resistência, práticas sociais, tecnologia e formação cidadã. A obra é organizada por três professores e três pesquisadoras da FEUSP, que assinam, respectivamente, o Prefácio e a Apresentação.
Manifesto (1922)
Authors: Arishima Takeo , Saldanha Fabio Pomponio , Pinto Felipe Chaves Gonçalves , Katague Gustavo Perez , Monzani João Marcelo Amaral Reimão
Published: July 2023

Tradução para o português do texto "宣言一つ", em que Arishima Takeo delimita, a partir da sua convivência intelectual com seus pares, quais são os caminhos possíveis para o movimento proletário no Japão, assim como quais seriam as vozes possíveis para cumprir o papel de representação dos sujeitos políticos a ali se moverem, ou seja, o proletariado.
Evaluating Transformer Models and Human Behaviors on Chinese Character Naming
Authors: Ma Xiaomeng , Gao Lingyu
Published: July 2023

Neural network models have been proposed to explain the grapheme-phoneme mapping process in humans for many alphabet languages. These models not only successfully learned the correspondence of the letter strings and their pronunciation, but also captured human behavior in nonce word naming tasks. How would the neural models perform for a non-alphabet language (e.g., Chinese) unknown character task? How well would the model capture human behavior? In this study, we first collect human speakers’ answers on unknown Character naming tasks and then evaluate a set of transformer models by comparing their performance with human behaviors on an unknown Chinese character naming task. We found that the models and humans behaved very similarly, that they had similar accuracy distribution for each character, and had a substantial overlap in answers. In addition, the models’ answers are highly correlated with humans’ answers. These results suggested that the transformer models can capture humans’ character naming behavior well.1
Hopefulness among individuals living with schizophrenia and their caregivers in Tanzania: an actor-partner interdependence model
Authors: Martinez Alyssa , Baumgartner Joy Noel , Kaaya Sylvia , Swai Praxeda , Lawala Paul S. , Thedai Beatrice , Minja Anna , Headley Jennifer , Egger Joseph R.
Published: July 2023

Background

Hopefulness is a positive orientation or state of mind that can aid in the recovery and treatment of mental illness, as it can have significant impacts on clinical and psychosocial outcomes. As resource-constrained settings work to implement recovery-oriented care, there is a need to better understand hopefulness among people living with schizophrenia (PLWS) and caregivers in their extended family networks. This study seeks to examine the dyadic relationship of hopefulness and its associated correlates among PLWS attending outpatient psychiatric clinics and their caregivers in Tanzania.

Methods

This study utilized baseline and immediate post-intervention data collected as part of a randomized controlled trial testing a culturally tailored model of Family Psychoeducation, KUPAA, in Tanzania. The Herth Hope Index was used to measure hopefulness among PLWS (n = 33) and their caregivers (n = 33) at baseline and immediate post-intervention. Univariable and multivariable regression models were conducted to determine correlates of hopefulness at baseline, while the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) was employed to examine the longitudinal, dyadic relationship of hopefulness among and between PLWS and their caregivers.

Results

Better family functioning was associated with higher levels of hopefulness in PLWS and their caregivers. Lower levels of stigma, lower symptom severity, and lower disability were associated with higher levels of hopefulness in PLWS. For PLWS and their caregivers, actor effects from the APIM model were less than one (PLWS, $$\beta=0.261$$

β
=
0.261

; caregivers, $$\beta=0.318$$

β
=
0.318

), indicating stability (within each person) in hopefulness over time. Regarding partner effects, a caregiver’s baseline hopefulness had a positive effect on the hopefulness of their PLWS at follow-up ($$\beta=0.100$$

β
=
0.100

). This indicates that higher caregiver hope at time 0 is associated with higher levels of hope in PLWS at time 1. Baseline hopefulness levels for PLWS had a negative effect on caregivers’ hopefulness at follow-up ($$\beta=-0.106$$

β
=
-
0.106

). This suggests that higher hopefulness among PLWS at baseline is associated with lower levels of hope in caregivers at follow-up.

Conclusion

Hopefulness is important to consider in family or caregiver-based treatments for PLWS because caregiver hopefulness may influence improvements in hopefulness among PLWS over time. Future studies should further explore the longitudinal dyadic relationship of hopefulness for these populations, as hope is a non-pharmacological and modifiable mechanism of change that is underutilized in care and treatment plans for PLWS globally.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials #NCT04013932, July 10, 2019.
The outcomes of postgraduate palliative care education and training: assessment and comparison of nurses and physicians
Authors: Marciniak Kevin , Scherg Alexandra , Paal Piret , Mason Stephen , Elsner Frank
Published: July 2023

Background

Within Germany, there is a heterogeneous range of training and continuing education in palliative care for different professional groups. The German Society for Palliative Medicine (DGP), together with the German Hospice and Palliative Care Association (DHPV), have defined quality requirements for postgraduate training in palliative care. These requirements include the evaluation of course structures and the assessment of outcomes.

Aim

To assess the ‘learning gains’ in palliative care nurses and physicians undertaking continuing education programmes, and evaluate the structures and processes. To identify if/how the continuing education programmes could be improved.

Material and methods

The development of Nurses’ and Physicians’ learning was determined using a retrospective self-assessment procedure. The evaluation was based on learning objectives developed in the DGP Education Working Group, using a six-point Likert scale for each item, and space for ‘free-text’ comments. Assessments were conducted after training.

Results

Five hundred twenty nine self-assessments were recorded (456 nurses / 73 physicians). An increase in learning is demonstrated in all areas (knowledge, skills, social and self-competence) for each profession. The greatest gain was in symptom control. However, there were significant differences in the extent of learning gains between nurses and physicians.

Conclusion

Analysis suggests current training results in improvements, but personal competences progress less than knowledge and skills. One way to improve this would be to introduce more interprofessional continuing education elements. Evaluation, as a basis for improving training concepts, is essential for continual development.
Interdisciplinary collaboration in serious illness conversations in patients with multiple myeloma and caregivers – a qualitative study
Authors: Myrhøj Cæcilie Borregaard , Viftrup Dorte Toudal , Jarden Mary , Clemmensen Stine Novrup
Published: July 2023

Background

There is growing evidence that conversations between healthcare professionals and patients with serious illness can improve the quality of end-of-life cancer care. Yet, there is lack of insight into how different healthcare professions collaborate to deliver serious illness communication, as well as patients’ and caregivers’ perceptions of this collaboration between the nurse and physician. This study explores the interdisciplinary collaboration between nurses and physicians in serious illness conversations with patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma and their caregivers.

Methods

Eleven dyadic interviews were conducted with 22 patients and caregivers, and two focus group interviews involving four nurses and the other with four physicians. Data analysis and reporting were conducted using reflexive thematic analysis within phenomenological epistemology.

Results

The interdisciplinary collaboration was characterized by three main themes: (1) Importance of relationships, (2) Complementary perspectives, and (3) The common goal.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of interdisciplinarity in serious illness conversations as it enhances the use of existential and descriptive language when addressing medical, holistic, and existential issues. The use of broader language also reflects that interdisciplinary interaction strengthens the expertise of each professional involved in patient care. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the preferences, hopes, and values of the patient and caregiver can be integrated into the treatment plan, which is key in providing the delivery of optimal care. To promote cohesive and coordinated collaboration, organizational changes are recommended such as supporting continuity in patient–healthcare professional relationships, providing interdisciplinary training, and allocating time for pre-conversation preparation and post-conversation debriefing.
Numerical simulation study on the evolution characteristics of the stress induced by mining in deep adjacent working faces
Authors: Ma Shoulong , Zhang Mingwei , Ma Lu , Tian Zhuangcai , Li Xue , Su Zhenhao
Published: July 2023

Background

The mining-induced stress in the surrounding rock after coal seam mining is the primary cause of damage and failure of the surrounding rock in the mining area. However, the magnitude and direction of the stress field induced by mining in the overburden strata during the excavation process of deep and adjacent coal seams are not yet clear, and it is difficult to determine how adjacent working faces interact with each other.

Results

In this study, a large-scale numerical model was built using FLAC3D (Fast Lagrange Analysis Continua) to simulate the sequential mining process of three adjacent working faces (No.1, No.2, and No.3) in Liuzhuang Coal Mine located in southern China. The results showed that the maximum height of plastic zone development after mining in the No.1 working face was 41 m, and the maximum height of plastic zone development was 33.8 m away from the 13 coal seam. It did not affect the top and bottom of the No.3 working face. The development height of the plastic zone on the roof of the No.2 working face after mining was 52m, and the top and bottom plates of the No.3 working face remained intact. The plastic zone of the floor of the No.3 working face after mining was not communicated with the plastic zone of the roof of the No.1 and No.2 working faces. There was a complete rock layer between the two coal seams, and there was not the mutual influence of the mining activities. During the mining process of working faces No.1 and No.2, the range of dynamic pressure influence was extended up to 100m ahead of the working face. During the mining process of the No.3 working face, the range of dynamic pressure influence was 120 m ahead of the working face. The No.1 working face goaf and the mining of No.2 working face had not disturbance to the No.3 working face.

Conclusions

After the mining of No.1 and No.2 working faces, the stress in the goaf significantly decreased, and the lateral support stress concentration area of No.1 and No.2 working faces had a relatively small impact on the 13 coal seam. Therefore, the No.1 goaf and mining of No.2 working faces had not disturbance to No.3 working face.
Evaluating the Suitability of the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) for Female Football Players
Authors: Dasa Marcus S. , Friborg Oddgeir , Kristoffersen Morten , Pettersen Gunn , Sagen Jørn V. , Sundgot-Borgen Jorunn , Rosenvinge Jan H.
Published: July 2023

Background

The Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) is a screening tool developed to detect endurance athletes and dancers at risk for development of persistent low energy availability (LEA) and the female athlete triad (Triad). This study investigated the applicability of the LEAF-Q in a cohort of sixty professional female football players.

Methods

The participants were classified as at risk (≥ 8) or not at risk (< 8) for persistent LEA and the Triad according to their LEAF-Q score, before being compared. Receiver operating curves were then conducted to examine the ability of the overall LEAF-Q and subcategories to correctly determine the presence of clinically defined markers of the Triad. Additionally, Youden’s index was calculated to determine the best fitting cut-off values.

Results

Thirty-two percent of participants were classified as at risk by the LEAF-Q. We found no statistically significant differences between the two groups for any markers associated with persistent LEA. Except for acceptable accuracy in determining menstrual status, all other LEAF-Q components exhibited poor accuracy and predictive values. Youden’s index scores imply that increasing the overall and injury cut-off values to ≥ 10 and ≥ 5 respectively, would yield increased performance.

Conclusions

Our findings do not support the use of the LEAF-Q for the purpose of detecting LEA and Triad conditions among female football players.
Balanced crystalloids (RInger’s lactate) versus normal Saline in adults with diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Emergency Department (BRISK-ED): a protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yan Justin W. , Slim Ahmed , Van Aarsen Kristine , Choi Yun-Hee , Byrne Christopher , Poonai Naveen , Collins Haley , Clemens Kristin K.
Published: July 2023

Background

Current guidelines for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) recommend treatment with normal saline (NS). However, NS, with its high chloride concentrations, may worsen acidosis and contribute to a hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. Alternatives to NS are balanced crystalloids (e.g. Ringer’s Lactate [RL]) which have chloride concentrations similar to human plasma; therefore, treatment with balanced crystalloids may lead to faster DKA resolution. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis by Catahay et al. (2022) demonstrated the need for more blinded, high-quality trials comparing NS versus RL in the treatment of DKA.

Methods

We describe a protocol for BRISK-ED (Balanced crystalloids [RInger’s lactate] versus normal Saline in adults with diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Emergency Department). Our study is a single-centre, triple-blind, pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) of adults (≥ 18 years) with DKA presenting to an academic tertiary care ED in London, Canada.

Patients with clinical suspicion for DKA will be screened and those found to not meet DKA criteria or have euglycemic DKA will be excluded. We will aim to recruit 52 patients with DKA and will randomize them 1:1 to receive intravenous RL or NS.

The primary feasibility outcome will be recruitment rate, and the primary efficacy outcome will be time elapsed from ED presentation to DKA resolution. Secondary outcomes include time to insulin infusion discontinuation, intensive care unit admission, in-hospital death, and major adverse kidney events within 30 days, defined as a composite of: i) death, ii) new renal replacement therapy, or iii) final serum creatinine ≥ 200% baseline at the earliest of hospital discharge or 30 days after ED presentation. Patients, clinicians, and outcome assessors will be blinded to allocation group. We will follow an intention-to-treat analysis. Gehan-Wilcoxon, Mann–Whitney U, or chi-square tests will be used to compare groups as appropriate.

Discussion

The results of this pilot study will inform the design and feasibility of a full-scale, multicentre RCT to assess fluid choice in adult ED patients with DKA. If proven to demonstrate faster resolution of DKA, administration of balanced crystalloids may replace NS in diabetes treatment guidelines and improve patient and health systems outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, Registration # NCT04926740; Registered June 15, 2021.
OUTdoor Swimming as a nature-based Intervention for DEpression (OUTSIDE): study protocol for a feasibility randomised control trial comparing an outdoor swimming intervention to usual care for adults experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of depression
Authors: Massey Heather , Denton Hannah , Burlingham Amy , Violato Mara , Bibby-Jones Anna-Marie , Cunningham Rebecca , Ciccognani Sandy , Robertson Sam , Strauss Clara
Published: July 2023

Background

Depression is common and the prevalence increasing worldwide; at least 1 in 10 people will experience depression in their lifetime. It is associated with economic costs at the individual, healthcare and societal level. Recommended treatments include medication and psychological therapies. However, given the long waiting times, and sometimes poor concordance and engagement with these treatments, a greater range of approaches are needed. Evidence for the potential of outdoor swimming as an intervention to support recovery from depression is emerging, but randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating clinical and cost-effectiveness are lacking. This study seeks to investigate the feasibility of conducting a definitive superiority RCT, comparing an 8-session outdoor swimming course offered in addition to usual care compared to usual care only, in adults who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of depression. Feasibility questions will examine recruitment and retention rates, acceptability of randomisation and measures, and identify the primary outcome measure that will inform the sample size calculation for a definitive full-scale RCT. This study will also explore potential facilitators and barriers of participation through evaluation questionnaires, focus-group discussions and interviews.

Methods/design

To address these aims and objectives, a feasibility superiority RCT with 1:1 allocation will be undertaken. We will recruit 88 participants with mild to moderate symptoms of depression through social prescribing organisations and social media in three sites in England. Participants will be randomised to either (1) intervention (8-session outdoor swimming course) plus usual care or (2) usual care only. Both groups will be followed up for a further 8 weeks.

Discussion

If findings from this feasibility RCT are favourable, a fully powered RCT will be conducted to investigate the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of the intervention. Findings from the definitive trial will provide evidence about outdoor swimming for depression for policymakers and has the potential to lead to greater choice of interventions for adults experiencing symptoms of depression.

Trial registration

Current controlled trial registration number is ISRCTN 90851983 registered on 19 May 2022.
Endoscopy-assisted purely total outer wall excision for pediatric Sylvian arachnoid cysts
Authors: Wu Mingxing , Di Fei , Ma Mingle , Li Jiye , Li Yanbin , Zhang Bingke
Published: July 2023

Background

To present a novel endoscopy-assisted surgical strategy of Sylvian arachnoid cysts (ACs).

Case presentation

Endoscopy-assisted surgery was performed on 9 children (May 2019–December 2021). All patients were evaluated with CT and/or MRI and had regular follow-up examinations. The procedure consisted of performing a small temporal craniotomy (2 cm) behind the hairline. After dural opening, the surgery was performed with the assistance of a rigid 30-degree transcranial endoscope, self-irrigating bipolar forceps, and other standard endoscopic instruments. Steps included total excision of the AC outer wall and dissection of arachnoid adhesion around the cystic edge to communicate the residual cyst cavity with subdural space. Compared with the microscopical procedure, a 30-degree transcranial endoscope provides a wider view, especially for the lateral part exposure of the outer wall.

The average age of the patients was 27.7 months (range 13–44 months). The Sylvian AC was in the right hemisphere in three patients and six in the left, respectively. 1 patient suffered transient postoperative epilepsy. There was no mortality or additional postoperative neurological deficit in this series. All of the patients achieved significant clinical improvement after surgery. Radiological examination after the operation showed a significant reduction in all cases (100%, 9/9) and disappearance in one case (11.1%, 1/9). Postoperative subdural fluid collection occurred in six cases and completely resolved spontaneously in 9 months.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated the minimally invasive, safety, and effectivity of the endoscopy-assisted purely total outer wall excision.
Components of peritonitis preventive self-care education programs associated with self-care knowledge and behavior among patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis in Japan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kugai Haruna , Igarashi Ayumi , Anezaki Saori , Fukui Chie , Saito Nami , Hamasaki Yoshifumi , Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko
Published: July 2023

Background

Preventing peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis remains a major concern in continuing safe treatment and improving patient quality of life. This study aimed to determine the self-care education and quality care initiatives performed for patients undergoing PD and explored their association with patient self-care knowledge and behavior regarding peritonitis prevention.

Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted with PD patients and their nurses in Japanese hospitals as respondents. Nurses provided the regular practice of self-care education and quality care initiatives for PD patients within the hospital while patients answered questions on their self-care knowledge and behaviors. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the factors of patients’ self-care knowledge and behaviors.

Results

We analyzed data on 170 patients (mean age: 65.1 years old) matched with those of 58 nurses from 58 hospitals. Although most educational contents were taught, teaching methods varied; evaluating patients’ learning levels and re-educating during follow-up periods were less frequently performed. As for quality care initiatives, 60% of hospital nurses monitored peritonitis rates, 33% shared peritonitis-associated information with relevant departments, and 47% had performed home visits before PD patients' discharge in the past. The factors of patients’ self-care knowledge include nurses’ re-educating during follow-ups (odds ratio (OR) = 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01–1.22, p = 0.025), sharing information with relevant departments (OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.01–2.74, p = 0.047), and patients’ younger age (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.96–1.00, p = 0.019). Hospitals performing home visits and patients’ perceived social support were associated with both self-care knowledge (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01–1.34, p = 0.038 and OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.10–1.61, p = 0.003, respectively) and behavior (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.02–1.64, p = 0.031 and OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.14–2.28, p = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusions

Re-education during follow-up visits, sharing information, and home visits before discharge may benefit patients in promoting peritonitis preventive self-care.
Optical coherence tomography findings in children of patients with Alzheimer-type dementia
Authors: Eliaçık Sinan , Aykaç Serdar , Yılmaz Hayati
Published: July 2023

Background

Ocular imaging receives much attention as a source of potential biomarkers for dementia. This study aims to study structural changes in the retina and optic nerve in children of healthy and demented parents and to confirm the applicability of optic nerve tomography as a potential noninvasive marker for the early diagnosis of dementia.

Methods

Healthy individuals with a parent diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and healthy controls with healthy parents were included in the study. Included individuals had undergone Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale and Mini-Mental Test by a single neurologist physician to confirm not having dementia. All the subjects then underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, including refractive error and keratometry readings, best-corrected visual acuity measurement with a Snellen chart (converted to LogMAR), intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, dilated fundus examination, axial length measurement and optical coherence tomography (OCT) for the parapapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL), basal membrane opening—minimum rim width (BMO-MRW), and macular thickness analysis. Only the right eyes of the subjects were evaluated. OCT findings of these two groups were compared.

Results

The temporosuperior sector the pRNFL thicknesses at all 3 circles (3.5, 4.1, and 4.5) were significantly thinner in the children of the dementia group than in healthy controls (p = 0.023, 0.039, and 0.016, respectively). For the remaining sectors, the thicknesses of the pRNFL were also thinner, however, the differences were not significant (p > 0.05 for all). BMO-MRW at all sectors, were not also different significantly between the groups (p > 0.05 for all). Parents’ dementia grade were found to be an important factor that the BMO-MRW at the temporal sector, got thinner with increasing grade (B = − 20.631, 95% CI − 42.121 to − 0.019, and p = 0.049).

Conclusion

We believe that OCT can be used as a noninvasive biomarker in the preclinical period, when supported by more extensive studies in people whose parents have AD.
The study of long noncoding RNA TUG 1 and ZEB2-AS1 expression in newly diagnosed Egyptian adult acute myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Abdelrahman Amira Mohamed Noureldin , Diab Safia Mohammed , Shabaan Howyda Moh. Kamal , Ahmed Mai Nasser Abdelmomen , Nabil Reem
Published: July 2023

Background

The hematopoietic malignancy acute myeloid leukemia is a fatal disease with poor clinical prognoses. Long non-coding RNA taurine-upregulated gene1 (lncRNA TUG1) and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 antisense RNA1 (lncRNA ZEB2-AS1) are reported to participate in the development and progression of different types of malignancies. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the prognostic value of the lncRNAs TUG1 and ZEB2-AS1 as well as their various expression patterns in newly diagnosed Egyptian adult acute myeloid leukemia patients.

Methods

We assessed the expression levels of both lncRNA TUG1 and lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 using the quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique (qRT-PCR) in 80 newly diagnosed AML patients and 20 healthy subjects.

Results

lncRNA TUG1 expression was significantly higher in the AML cases compared to the controls (P < 0.001), whereas lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression was considerably lower in the AML cases in comparison with the controls (P < 0.001). The expression levels of the lncRNAs ZEB2-AS1 and TUG1 exhibited a significantly positive association in the AML group (P < 0.001). There was no difference in overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) between the groups with low and high lncRNA TUG1 expression (P = 0.139 and 0.918, respectively). Furthermore, the AML cases with higher lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression levels had shorter DFS than patients with lower lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression levels (P = 0.014), while OS did not significantly differ between the studied cases with lower and higher lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression (P = 0.589).

Conclusion

Overexpression of lncRNA TUG1 could serve as a diagnostic biomarker for Egyptian adult AML cases, while lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 high expression could be regarded as an indicator of poor outcome in Egyptian adult AML studied cases.
Overload-Checking and Edge-Finding for Robust Cumulative Scheduling
Authors: Fahimi Hamed , Quimper Claude-Guy
Published: July 2023

Scheduling frameworks are not necessarily stable. The aim is to introduce schedules resistant to disruptions such as when resources become unavailable, the supply chain for them breaks down, etc. A schedule is robust if it absorbs some level of unforeseen events when at most a certain number of activities are delayed. Taking advantage of constraint programming, we present two new filtering algorithms for a constraint that models cumulative scheduling problems in robust contexts where up to [Formula: see text] out of [Formula: see text] tasks can be concurrently delayed while keeping the schedule valid. We adapt the overload-checking and edge-finding filtering rules for this framework. We show that our robust versions of these algorithms run in [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, where [Formula: see text] denotes the number of distinct capacities of all tasks. This achievement implies that the complexities of the state-of-the-art algorithms for these techniques are invariable when [Formula: see text] is constant. Experiments illustrate that our algorithms scale, with respect to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. As a practical application, the experimental results on a special case of crane assignment problem also verify a stronger filtering for these methods in terms of backtrack numbers as well as computation times when used in conjunction with time tabling. Finally, in order to show that our CP-based algorithms improve to solve a robust scheduling problem, we make a comparison against temporal protection as an external robust scheduling approach.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms – Discrete.

Funding: H. Fahimi received funding from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz with [Grant number SCU.MC1402.44132]. C.-G. Quimper was funded by a NSERC Discovery Grant from Canada.

Supplemental Material: The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2021.0138 .
Prescribing for depression in primary care
Authors: Hardy Sheila
Published: July 2023

The term ‘depression’ covers a variety of mental health problems characterised by a loss of interest and enjoyment, low mood and other emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioural symptoms. Most people experiencing depression are treated in primary care. These treatments include various talking therapies and support to aid physical, psychological and social wellbeing. For people with moderate-to-severe depression, treatment with medication is recommended. This may be prescribed in addition to therapy and support. It is important that the person diagnosed with depression is monitored to assess how they respond to the antidepressants. A different type may need to be offered if response is poor or they have intolerable side effects. Antidepressants need to be prescribed for a given period, the length of which is dependent on whether this is the first or a further episode.
Preservers of the p-power and the Wasserstein means on 2x2 matrices
Authors: Simon Richárd , Virosztek Dániel
Published: July 2023

In one of his recent papers, Molnár showed that if $\mathcal{A}$ is a von Neumann algebra without $I_1, I_2$-type direct summands, then any function from the positive definite cone of $\mathcal{A}$ to the positive real numbers preserving the Kubo-Ando power mean, for some $0 \neq p \in (-1,1),$ is necessarily constant. It was shown in that paper that $I_1$-type algebras admit nontrivial $p$-power mean preserving functionals, and it was conjectured that $I_2$-type algebras admit only constant $p$-power mean preserving functionals. We confirm the latter. A similar result occurred in another recent paper of Molnár concerning the Wasserstein mean. We prove the conjecture for $I_2$-type algebras in regard of the Wasserstein mean, too. We also give two conditions that characterise centrality in $C^*$-algebras.
Enhancing onchocerciasis elimination program management: A biological approach to deciding when to begin Stop Mass Drug Administration activities
Authors: Boakye Daniel , Mackenzie Charles , Tallant Jamie , Heggen Anne , Leff Sashi , Nadjilar Lokemla , Sow Moussa
Published: July 2023

Understanding when it is the appropriate time to stop administering the drugs in a chemotherapy-centered treatment program such as onchocerciasis remains a challenge due to cost, imperfect testing procedures, and a lack of long-term experience. Different approaches for assessing when a program can begin the extensive stop-treatment surveys have been recommended, and tested, with varying results. We describe here a practical approach that is based on information on both transmission as well as infection. This new protocol first defines operational transmission zones (OTZs) based on vector breeding sites followed by an epidemiological assessment of the resident populations adjacent to these breeding sites. Basing decisions to stop MDA treatment based on breeding site locations (i.e., transmission zones) rather than on political administrative units, is a practical, cost-effective approach. Importantly, this biology-based approach is more closely related to the actual state of onchocerciasis transmission.
Influence of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes: A prospective study in the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Misgina Kebede Haile , Levine Lindsay , Boezen H. Marike , Bezabih Afework Mulugeta , van der Beek Eline M. , Groen Henk
Published: July 2023

Background

In low-income countries, where socioeconomic adversities and perinatal distress are common, adverse birth outcomes are significant public health problems. In these settings, perinatal distress, i.e., high symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or stress during pregnancy, may be linked with adverse birth outcomes. However, few prospective studies have investigated the impact of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth (gestational age <37 weeks), low birth weight (<2.5 kg), and small for gestational age birth (birth weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age and sex).

Objectives

Our main objective was to assess the influence of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes. Secondly, to investigate if perinatal distress is an independent risk factor or a mediator in the pathway between socioeconomic adversity and adverse birth outcomes.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study following 991 women from before 20 weeks of gestation until delivery in northern Ethiopia, we collected self-reported data on distress at a mean of 14.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 1.9) and 33.9 (SD = 1.1) weeks of gestation. Distress was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Perceived Stress Scale. To determine birth outcomes, gestational age was estimated from the last menstrual period, fundal palpation, and/or ultrasound, while birth weight was obtained from delivery records and measured within three days after birth for those delivered at home. Logistic regression and mediation analysis were employed to evaluate the impact of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes.

Results

Perinatal anxiety (OR [95% CI] 1.08 [1.02, 1.13]), depression (1.07 [1.03, 1.11]), stress (1.14 [1.07, 1.22]), and total distress (1.15 [1.07, 1.23]) were all associated with low birth weight, and small for gestational age birth but none did with preterm birth. Mediation analysis demonstrated that perinatal distress was a mediator in the pathway between socioeconomic adversity and adverse birth outcomes.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that perinatal distress was linked with adverse birth outcomes and acted as a mediator between socioeconomic adversity and these outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of screening women for distress and providing appropriate interventions, focusing on women experiencing socioeconomic adversity. Integrating mental health services into primary maternal care in low-income countries could be an effective approach to achieve this.