bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and accuracy of mobile QT interval monitoring strategies in bedaquiline‐enhanced prophylactic leprosy treatment
Authors: Bergeman Auke T. , Nourdine Said , Piubello Alberto , Salim Zahara , Braet Sofie M. , Baco Abdallah , Grillone Silahi H. , Snijders Rian , Hoof Carolien , Tsoumanis Achilleas , van Loen Harry , Assoumani Younoussa , Mzembaba Aboubacar , Ortuño‐Gutiérrez Nimer , Hasker Epco , van der Werf Christian , de Jong Bouke C.
Published: July 2024

Some anti‐mycobacterial drugs are known to cause QT interval prolongation, potentially leading to life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmia. However, the highest leprosy and tuberculosis burden occurs in settings where electrocardiographic monitoring is challenging. The feasibility and accuracy of alternative strategies, such as the use of automated measurements or a mobile electrocardiogram (mECG) device, have not been evaluated in this context. As part of the phase II randomized controlled BE‐PEOPLE trial evaluating the safety of bedaquiline‐enhanced post‐exposure prophylaxis (bedaquiline and rifampicin, BE‐PEP, versus rifampicin, SDR‐PEP) for leprosy, all participants had corrected QT intervals (QTc) measured at baseline and on the day after receiving post‐exposure prophylaxis. The accuracy of mECG measurements as well as automated 12L‐ECG measurements was evaluated. In total, 635 mECGs from 323 participants were recorded, of which 616 (97%) were of sufficient quality for QTc measurement. Mean manually read QTc on 12L‐ECG and mECG were 394 ± 19 and 385 ± 18 ms, respectively (p < 0.001), with a strong correlation (r = 0.793). The mean absolute QTc difference between both modalities was 11 ± 10 ms. Mean manual and automated 12L‐ECG QTc were 394 ± 19 and 409 ± 19 ms, respectively (n = 636; p < 0.001), corresponding to moderate agreement (r = 0.655). The use of a mECG device for QT interval monitoring was feasible and yielded a median absolute QTc error of 8 ms. Automated QTc measurements were less accurate, yielding longer QTc intervals.
Three‐dimensional anatomic features of the mitral valve that predict systolic anterior motion occurring during dobutamine stress echocardiography
Authors: Meimoun Patrick , Kacy Vanessa , Vernier Agathe , Stracchi Valentin , Elmkies Frederic , Botoro Thierry , Clerc Jerome , Tribouilloy Christophe
Published: July 2024

Background/Aim

Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction related to systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral valve is a common complication of dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE). However, the mechanisms underlying SAM have not been fully characterized. The objective of the present study was to use three‐dimensional echocardiography to identify anatomic features of the mitral valve that predispose to SAM during DSE.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients included prospectively in our database and who had undergone 3D echocardiography (including an assessment of the mitral valve) before DSE. Patients who had developed SAM during DSE (the SAM+ group) were matched 2:3 with patients who did not (the SAM− group).

Results

One hundred patients were included (mean age: 67 ± 10). Compared with SAM− patients (n = 60), SAM+ patients (n = 40) had a lower mitral annular area, a smaller perimeter, and a smaller diameter (p < .01 for all, except the anteroposterior diameter). The SAM+ group had also a narrower mitral‐aortic angle (126 ± 12° vs. 139 ± 11° in the SAM− group; p < .01) and a higher posterior mitral leaflet length (1.4 ± .27 cm vs. 1.25 ± .29, respectively; p < .01). Furthermore, the mitral annulus was more spherical, more flexible, and more dynamic in SAM+ patients than in SAM− patients (p < .05 for all). In a multivariate analysis of anatomic variables, the mitral‐aortic angle, the mitral annular area, and posterior leaflet length were independent predictors of SAM (p ≤ .01 for all). In a multivariate analysis of standard echo and hemodynamic variables, the presence of wall motion abnormalities at rest (p < .01) was an independent predictor of SAM.

Conclusion

SAM during DSE is multifactorial. In addition to the pharmacologic effects of dobutamine on the myocardium, 3D echocardiographic features of the mitral valve (a smaller mitral annulus, a narrower mitral‐aortic angle, and a longer posterior leaflet) appear to predispose to SAM.
Mechanisms of coexistence: Exploring species sorting and character displacement in woody plants to alleviate belowground competition
Authors: Veresoglou Stavros D. , Xi Jingjing , Peñuelas Josep
Published: July 2024

Rarely do we observe competitive exclusion within plant communities, even though plants compete for a limited pool of resources. Thus, our understanding of the mechanisms sustaining plant biodiversity might be limited. In this study, we explore two common ecological strategies, species sorting and character displacement, that promote coexistence by reducing competition. We assess the degree to which woody plants may implement these two strategies to lower belowground competition for nutrients which occurs via nutritional (mostly mycorrhizal) mutualisms. First, we compile data on plant traits and the mycorrhizal association state of woody angiosperms using a global inventory of indigenous flora. Our analysis reveals that species in locations with high mycorrhizal diversity exhibit distinct mean values in leaf area and wood density based on their mycorrhizal type, indicating species sorting. Second, we reanalyse a large dataset on leaf area to demonstrate that in areas with high mycorrhizal diversity, trees maintain divergent leaf area values, showcasing character displacement. Character displacement among plants is considered rare, making our observation significant. In summary, our study uncovers a rare occurrence of character displacement and identifies a common mechanism employed by plants to alleviate competition, shedding light on the complexities of plant coexistence in diverse ecosystems.
Uses of antiseizure medication among pregnant women with epilepsy and risk of adverse obstetric outcomes: A group‐based trajectory analysis
Authors: Lin Yi‐Chin , Lin Chih‐Wan , Meng Lin‐Chieh , Huang Shih‐Tsung , Chen Yi‐Yung , Wang Shuu‐Jiun , Chan K. Arnold , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to examine the association between different patterns of antiseizure medication (ASM) use during pregnancy and adverse obstetric outcomes (preterm birth, low birth weight [LBW], and small for gestational age [SGA]).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used the Birth Certificate Application and National Health Insurance data in Taiwan (January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2018). We retrieved weekly ASM among pregnant women with epilepsy who were prepregnancy chronic users and used group‐based trajectory modeling to identify distinct patterns of use. Logistic regressions were adopted to examine the association between patterns of ASM use and risk of preterm birth, LBW, and SGA. In addition, we revealed postnatal ASM utilization pattern among these prepregnancy chronic users as an exploratory study.

Results

Of 2175 pregnant women with epilepsy, we identified four patterns of ASM use during pregnancy: frequent and continuous (64.87%), frequent but discontinuous (7.08%), intermittent (19.72%), and intermittent and discontinuous users (8.32%). Compared to frequent and continuous users, the adjusted odds ratios for preterm birth in frequent but discontinuous, intermittent, and intermittent and discontinuous users were .83 (95% confidence interval [CI] = .47–1.48), .71 (95% CI = .47–1.05), and .88 (95% CI = .52–1.49), respectively. Similar results were observed for LBW and SGA. In the exploratory study, we found that most of our study subjects maintained the same patterns before and after delivery.

Significance

After considering duration and timing of exposure, our study did not find an association between four distinct patterns of ASM use and adverse obstetric outcomes among women with epilepsy. The findings suggested that optimal seizure control could be received for pregnant women with epilepsy after evaluating the risks and benefits.
Automated detection of tonic seizures using wearable movement sensor and artificial neural network
Authors: Larsen Sidsel Armand , Johansen Daniel Højrup , Beniczky Sándor
Published: July 2024

Although several validated wearable devices are available for detection of generalized tonic–clonic seizures, automated detection of tonic seizures is still a challenge. In this phase 1 study, we report development and validation of an artificial neural network (ANN) model for automated detection of tonic seizures with visible clinical manifestation using a wearable wristband movement sensor (accelerometer and gyroscope). The dataset prospectively recorded for this study included 70 tonic seizures from 15 patients (seven males, age 3–46 years, median = 19 years). We trained an ANN model to detect tonic seizures. The independent test dataset comprised nocturnal recordings, including 10 tonic seizures from three patients and additional (distractor) data from three subjects without seizures. The ANN model detected nocturnal tonic seizures with visible clinical manifestation with a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval = 69%–100%) and with an average false alarm rate of .16/night. The mean detection latency was 14.1 s (median = 10 s), with a maximum of 47 s. These data suggest that nocturnal tonic seizures can be reliably detected with movement sensors using ANN. Large‐scale, multicenter prospective (phase 3) trials are needed to provide compelling evidence for the clinical utility of this device and detection algorithm.
Subjective cognitive decline and objective cognitive performance in older adults: A systematic review of longitudinal and cross‐sectional studies
Authors: Zhou Carl , Jeryous Fares Bassam , Thériault Kim , Trinh Brian , Joseph Morgan , Jauhal Tegh , Sheppard Christine , Labelle Patrick R. , Krishnan Anjali , Rabin Laura , Taler Vanessa
Published: July 2024

Older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have a higher risk of developing future cognitive decline than those without SCD. However, the association between SCD and objective cognitive performance remains unclear. This PRISMA 2020‐compliant systematic review aims to provide a qualitative assessment of the longitudinal and cross‐sectional relationship between SCD and objective cognitive performance in different cognitive domains, in neuropsychologically healthy, community‐dwelling older adults (average age of 55 or older). To identify pertinent studies, a comprehensive search was conducted from seven databases. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross‐Sectional Studies was used to assess the quality of included studies. Inclusion criteria were met by 167 studies, which were full‐text and published between 1 January 1982 and 16 May 2023 (inclusive) in the languages of English, French, or Spanish and presenting data on objective cognitive performance in older adults with SCD. Overall, we found that SCD was associated with poorer objective cognitive performance on measures of global cognition and memory longitudinally compared to non‐SCD status, but this association was inconsistent in cross‐sectional studies. This association became stronger with the use of continuous measures of SCD as opposed to dichotomous measures. Additionally, results highlight the known lack of consistency in SCD assessment among studies and comparatively small number of longitudinal studies in SCD research.
Empowering nurses to champion Health equity & BE FAIR: Bias elimination for fair and responsible AI in healthcare
Authors: Cary Michael P. , Bessias Sophia , McCall Jonathan , Pencina Michael J. , Grady Siobahn D. , Lytle Kay , Economou‐Zavlanos Nicoleta J.
Published: July 2024

Background

The concept of health equity by design encompasses a multifaceted approach that integrates actions aimed at eliminating biased, unjust, and correctable differences among groups of people as a fundamental element in the design of algorithms. As algorithmic tools are increasingly integrated into clinical practice at multiple levels, nurses are uniquely positioned to address challenges posed by the historical marginalization of minority groups and its intersections with the use of “big data” in healthcare settings; however, a coherent framework is needed to ensure that nurses receive appropriate training in these domains and are equipped to act effectively.

Purpose

We introduce the Bias Elimination for Fair AI in Healthcare (BE FAIR) framework, a comprehensive strategic approach that incorporates principles of health equity by design, for nurses to employ when seeking to mitigate bias and prevent discriminatory practices arising from the use of clinical algorithms in healthcare. By using examples from a “real‐world” AI governance framework, we aim to initiate a wider discourse on equipping nurses with the skills needed to champion the BE FAIR initiative.

Methods

Drawing on principles recently articulated by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, we conducted a critical examination of the concept of health equity by design. We also reviewed recent literature describing the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in healthcare as well as their potential for advancing health equity. Building on this context, we describe the BE FAIR framework, which has the potential to enable nurses to take a leadership role within health systems by implementing a governance structure to oversee the fairness and quality of clinical algorithms. We then examine leading frameworks for promoting health equity to inform the operationalization of BE FAIR within a local AI governance framework.

Results

The application of the BE FAIR framework within the context of a working governance system for clinical AI technologies demonstrates how nurses can leverage their expertise to support the development and deployment of clinical algorithms, mitigating risks such as bias and promoting ethical, high‐quality care powered by big data and AI technologies.

Conclusion and Relevance

As health systems learn how well‐intentioned clinical algorithms can potentially perpetuate health disparities, we have an opportunity and an obligation to do better. New efforts empowering nurses to advocate for BE FAIR, involving them in AI governance, data collection methods, and the evaluation of tools intended to reduce bias, mark important steps in achieving equitable healthcare for all.
Interleukin‐6 and interferon‐alpha differentially regulate microglia function
Authors: Verdillo Rovin , Spiteri Alanna , Viengkhou Barney , Wishart Claire , King Nicholas J. C. , Hofer Markus J.
Published: July 2024

Previous reports have shown that IL‐6 and IFN‐⍺ induce distinct transcriptomic and morphological changes in microglia. Here, we demonstrate that IL‐6 increases tissue surveillance, migration and phagocytosis in primary murine microglia, whereas IFN‐⍺ inhibits these functions. Our results provide a crucial link between transcriptome and function. It holds the potential to serve as the foundation for future studies aimed at identifying therapeutic targets for cytokine‐mediated neuroinflammatory diseases.
Cognitive profile in burning mouth syndrome versus mild cognitive impairment: A comparative study
Authors: Femminella Grazia Daniela , Canfora Federica , Musella Gennaro , Di Tella Gianluca Scotto , Ugga Lorenzo , Pecoraro Giuseppe , Leuci Stefania , Coppola Noemi , De Lucia Natascia , Maldonato Nelson Mauro , Liguori Simone , Aria Massimo , D'Aniello Luca , Rengo Giuseppe , Mignogna Michele Davide , Adamo Daniela
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aims to assess and contrast cognitive and psychological aspects of patients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS‐MCI) and geriatric patients (G‐MCI) with mild cognitive impairment, focusing on potential predictors like pain, mood disorders, blood biomarkers, and age‐related white matter changes (ARWMCs).

Methods

The study enrolled 40 BMS‐MCI and 40 geriatric G‐MCI, matching them by age, gender, and educational background. Participants underwent psychological, sleepiness, and cognitive assessment including the Mini‐Mental State Exam (MMSE), Trail Making Test (TMT), Corsi Block‐Tapping Task, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Copying Geometric Drawings Test, Frontal Assessment Battery, and Digit Cancellation Test.

Results

G‐MCI patients exhibited higher ARWMCs scores in right (p = 0.005**) and left (p < 0.001**) temporal regions, which may relate to specific neurodegenerative processes. Conversely, BMS‐MCI patients showed higher levels of depression and anxiety and lower MMSE scores(p < 0.001**), also struggling more with tasks requiring processing speed and executive function, as evidenced by their higher TMT‐A scores (p < 0.001**).

Conclusions

The study highlights particular deficits in global cognition and processing speed for BMS‐MCI. The influence of educational background, pain levels, cholesterol, sleep disturbances, and anxiety on these cognitive assessments underscores the need for personalized therapeutic strategies addressing both cognitive and emotional aspects of MCI.
Neoliberal Nationalism in Television Commercials: Discursive Representations of Exploring and Entrepreneurial Indonesians
Authors: Nugroho Stefani
Published: July 2024

The article examines the intertwinement of neoliberalism with nationalism and the new conceptualizations of Indonesianness that it generates. The principles of the two paradigms are often seen as antitheses, but this article shows that the growing neoliberal ideas and practices have informed notions of the nation and Indonesianness. The conjunction of the two paradigms indicates a shift in Indonesia, where until 1998, the state portrayed neoliberal principles as un‐Indonesian. Examining 212 nationalistic television commercials aired between 2005 and 2021, two discourses of Indonesianness can be identified. The first depicts Indonesians as passionately productive and entrepreneurial people, and the second frames the partaking in the marketization and promotion of exotic cultural diversity as acts of nationalism. These discourses reflect the growing acceptance of neoliberal values, especially among the middle class. Despite the relatively new conjunction of neoliberalism and nationalism, these new imaginings continue to build on the older state's discourse that excludes socio‐economic and ethnic minorities. Thus, diverging from the vision of a democratic post‐authoritarian Indonesia, this point of convergence between nationalism and neoliberalism continues to marginalize minorities.
Computational framework for the generation of one‐dimensional vascular models accounting for uncertainty in networks extracted from medical images
Authors: Bartolo Michelle A. , Taylor‐LaPole Alyssa M. , Gandhi Darsh , Johnson Alexandria , Li Yaqi , Slack Emma , Stevens Isaiah , Turner Zachary G. , Weigand Justin D. , Puelz Charles , Husmeier Dirk , Olufsen Mette S.
Published: July 2024

One‐dimensional (1D) cardiovascular models offer a non‐invasive method to answer medical questions, including predictions of wave‐reflection, shear stress, functional flow reserve, vascular resistance and compliance. This model type can predict patient‐specific outcomes by solving 1D fluid dynamics equations in geometric networks extracted from medical images. However, the inherent uncertainty in in vivo imaging introduces variability in network size and vessel dimensions, affecting haemodynamic predictions. Understanding the influence of variation in image‐derived properties is essential to assess the fidelity of model predictions. Numerous programs exist to render three‐dimensional surfaces and construct vessel centrelines. Still, there is no exact way to generate vascular trees from the centrelines while accounting for uncertainty in data. This study introduces an innovative framework employing statistical change point analysis to generate labelled trees that encode vessel dimensions and their associated uncertainty from medical images. To test this framework, we explore the impact of uncertainty in 1D haemodynamic predictions in a systemic and pulmonary arterial network. Simulations explore haemodynamic variations resulting from changes in vessel dimensions and segmentation; the latter is achieved by analysing multiple segmentations of the same images. Results demonstrate the importance of accurately defining vessel radii and lengths when generating high‐fidelity patient‐specific haemodynamics models.

image

Key points

This study introduces novel algorithms for generating labelled directed trees from medical images, focusing on accurate junction node placement and radius extraction using change points to provide haemodynamic predictions with uncertainty within expected measurement error.

Geometric features, such as vessel dimension (length and radius) and network size, significantly impact pressure and flow predictions in both pulmonary and aortic arterial networks.

Standardizing networks to a consistent number of vessels is crucial for meaningful comparisons and decreases haemodynamic uncertainty.

Change points are valuable to understanding structural transitions in vascular data, providing an automated and efficient way to detect shifts in vessel characteristics and ensure reliable extraction of representative vessel radii.
From the Closet to the Center
Authors: Williams Diane L. , Veri Maria J. , Hudson Jackie
Published: July 2024

The Amy Morris Homans Cotillion and Pre-Cotillion created unique and liberatory spaces for many lesbian and allied women attending the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) convention between 1982 and 2014. In this article, we draw on feminist and queer theories to consider the multiple meanings embedded in Cotillion goers’ lived experiences. Memories of planning and participating in these events linger for attendees decades later. The impact of attending ranged from lighthearted appreciation to profound gratitude. The Cotillion events disrupted the oppressive status quo at the AAHPERD convention and within kinesiology in favor of community building, joy, and the celebration of lesbian identities. We explore the disruption of heteropatriarchal norms and the creation of alternative community spaces to learn better from the past and to help create liberatory futures for practitioners and scholars in kinesiology.
The Cotillion Community
Authors: Veri Maria J. , Williams Diane L.
Published: July 2024

The Amy Morris Homans Cotillion, held annually from 1982 to 2014, was a safe space for lesbian professionals in kinesiology, as well as a challenge and a disruption to the misogyny, homophobia, and heterosexism that pervaded the field in the mid- and late 20th century. In this article, we highlight the lived experiences of the broader Cotillion community. We conducted oral-history interviews with American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAPHERD) convention attendees about their memories of the Cotillion and Pre-Cotillion. Through these stories, we convey the significance of these events for the women and lesbians in kinesiology/physical education departments who attended them. The article begins with descriptions of interviewees’ lives within the field, progresses to how attendees discovered and experienced the Cotillion and/or Pre-Cotillion, and then explores the impact of the Cotillion, both at AAPHERD and beyond the convention.
Viral and thermal lysis facilitates transmission of antibiotic resistance genes during composting
Authors: Ai Chaofan , Cui Peng , Liu Chen , Wu Jiawei , Xu Yuan , Liang Xiaolong , Yang Qiu-e , Tang Xiang , Zhou Shungui , Liao Hanpeng , Friman Ville-Petri
Published: July 2024

While the distribution of extracellular ARGs (eARGs) in the environment has been widely reported, the factors governing their release remain poorly understood. Here, we combined multi-omics and direct experimentation to test whether the release and transmission of eARGs are associated with viral lysis and heat during cow manure composting. Our results reveal that the proportion of eARGs increased 2.7-fold during composting, despite a significant and concomitant reduction in intracellular ARG abundances. This relative increase of eARGs was driven by composting temperature and viral lysis of ARG-carrying bacteria based on metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) analysis. Notably, thermal lysis of mesophilic bacteria carrying ARGs was a key factor in releasing eARGs at the thermophilic phase, while viral lysis played a relatively stronger role during the non-thermal phase of composting. Furthermore, MAG-based tracking of ARGs in combination with direct transformation experiments demonstrated that eARGs released during composting pose a potential transmission risk. Our study provides bioinformatic and experimental evidence of the undiscovered role of temperature and viral lysis in co-driving the spread of ARGs in compost microbiomes via the horizontal transfer of environmentally released DNA.

IMPORTANCE

The spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) is a critical global health concern. Understanding the factors influencing the release of extracellular ARGs (eARGs) is essential for developing effective strategies. In this study, we investigated the association between viral lysis, heat, and eARG release during composting. Our findings revealed a substantial increase in eARGs despite reduced intracellular ARG abundance. Composting temperature and viral lysis were identified as key drivers, with thermal lysis predominant during the thermophilic phase and viral lysis during non-thermal phases. Moreover, eARGs released during composting posed a transmission risk through horizontal gene transfer. This study highlights the significance of temperature and phage lysis in ARG spread, providing valuable insights for mitigating antibiotic resistance threats.
Intratumoral Injection of Immunotherapeutics: State of the Art and Future Directions
Authors: Sheth Rahul A. , Wehrenberg-Klee Eric , Patel Sapna P. , Brock Kristy K. , Fotiadis Nicos , de Baère Thierry
Published: July 2024

Stimulating systemic antitumor immunity through local interventions is actively being investigated in solid tumors; radiologists are critical to the successful delivery of intratumoral immunotherapy in lesions where administration requires imaging guidance.
Deformation Monitoring of High‐Rise Building Clusters: Acquiring Deformation Coefficients by Combining Satellite Imagery and Persistent Scatterer Interferometry
Authors: Zhou Yun , Chen Jianwei , Hao Guanwang , Zhu Shiqi
Published: July 2024

Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) is a remote sensing measurement technology based on electromagnetic waves, capable of simultaneously monitoring deformations in large urban building complexes with millimeter‐level precision. However, relying solely on the line of sight (LOS) deformation sequence based on a specific permanent scatterer cannot accurately analyze building deformations, particularly in cases where high‐rise buildings may simultaneously experience various deformation components such as temperature‐induced deformation, shrinkage, creep, and tilting. To accurately identify the deformation states of high‐rise buildings, the paper begins by systematically summarizing three typical deformation patterns from the unique perspective of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites. These patterns include Pattern I, characterized by temperature‐induced deformation alone, and Pattern II and Pattern III, which involve a combination of deformation in different directions relative to the SAR satellite in addition to temperature‐induced deformation. To accurately monitor the LOS deformation of high‐rise buildings, the paper introduces the concept of acquiring the evolutionary trends of temperature‐related deformation coefficients and proposes a methodology for recognizing and quantifying deformation in high‐rise buildings. Subsequently, this study utilized freely available Sentinel‐1 satellite data to observe the deformation of nine high‐rise buildings in Changsha, China. The research findings indicate that the thermal expansion coefficients of most high‐rise buildings fall within the range of 6 ∼ 12 × 10−6/°C. High‐rise buildings that have been constructed for more than ten years almost no longer experience significant shrinkage or creep, while new constructions may exhibit an initial shrinkage and creep of up to 1.2 × 10−4 mm/mm. Additionally, the study results demonstrate that super‐tall buildings may exhibit centimeter‐scale lateral deformations at their tops due to uneven shrinkage. Findings from the study indicate that the proposed method can achieve cost‐effective and sustainable deformation monitoring of high‐rise building clusters within a large urban area.
Analyzing Land Use/Land Cover Changes Using Google Earth Engine and Random Forest Algorithm and Their Implications to the Management of Land Degradation in the Upper Tekeze Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Fentaw Alemu Eshetu , Abegaz Assefa
Published: July 2024

Land use and land cover change (LULCC) without appropriate management practices has been identified as a major factor contributing to land degradation, with significant impacts on ecosystem services and climate change and hence on human livelihoods. Therefore, up‐to‐date and accurate LULCC data and maps at different spatial scales are significant for regular monitoring of existing ecosystems, proper planning of natural resource management, and promotion of sustainable regional development. This study investigates the temporal and spatial dynamics of land use land cover (LULC) changes over 31 years (1990–2021) in the upper Tekeze River basin, Ethiopia, utilizing advanced remote sensing techniques such as Google Earth Engine (GEE) and the Random Forest (RF) algorithm. Landsat surface reflectance images from Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) (1990, 2000, and 2010) and Landsat 8 Operational land imager (OLI) sensors (2021) were used. Besides, auxiliary data were utilized to improve the classification of LULC classes. LULC was classified using the Random Forest (RF) classification algorithm in the Google Earth Engine (GEE). The OpenLand R package was used to map the LULC transition and intensity of changes across the study period. Despite the complexity of the topographic and climatic features of the study area, the RF algorithm achieved high accuracy with 0.83 and 0.75 overall accuracy and Kappa values, respectively. The LULC change results from 1990 to 2021 showed that forest, bushland, shrubland, and bareland decreased by 12.2, 24.8, 1.2, and 15.4%, respectively. Bareland has changed to farmland, settlement, and dry riverbed and stream channels. Expansion of dry stream channels and sandy land surfaces has been observed from 1990 to 2021. Bushland has shown an increment by 17.2% from 1900 to 2010 but decreased by 19.5% from 2010 to 2021. Throughout the study period, water, farmland, dry stream channels and riverbeds, and urban settlements showed positive net gains of 484, 8.7, 82, and 26778.5%, respectively. However, forest, bush, shrub, and bareland experienced 12.17, 24.8, 1.2, and 15.37% losses. The observed changes showed the existing land degradation and the future vulnerability of the basin which would serve as an evidence to mitigate land degradation by avoiding the future conversion of forest, bushland, and shrubland to farmland, on the one hand, and by scaling up sustainable farmland management, and afforestation practices on degraded and vulnerable areas, on the other hand.
Examining the Roles and Attitudes of the Local Community in Wildlife Conservation of Ethiopia
Authors: Kerorsa Kabeta Legese
Published: July 2024

This short review summarizes the roles and behavioral responses of local communities towards wildlife conservation in Ethiopia. The inherent practices of local communities in their long‐held traditional and cultural setups give them an important role in conservation successes. Traditional wildlife conservation practices in Ethiopia are not well documented and have likely been heavily eroded due to changes in governmental regimes, each with different ideologies, the introduction of modern lifestyles and religions, and ethnic and cultural diversities. Local communities contribute a lot to wildlife conservation when they are allowed to participate in fighting illegal wildlife trafficking operations. The illegal wildlife trade (IWT) in Ethiopia is still a comparatively new phenomenon with a low scientific profile. The roles of local people both in the IWT and in prevention and conservation efforts remain undocumented, and research into these is at an early stage. Several studies have indicated the alienation of the local community and their subsequent antagonistic responses towards conservation efforts in different parts of Ethiopia. Eviction of indigenous people, benefit denial, unequal benefit sharing, and interactions with wildlife and human‐wildlife conflicts are the major factors fueling the resentment of local communities towards wildlife and their conservation. Thus, wildlife conservation in Ethiopia needs impartial studies and practical improvement to understand and address these human dimensions and inform more effective conservation and IWT prevention.
Clinical Value of Liquid Biopsy in Patients with FGFR2 Fusion–Positive Cholangiocarcinoma During Targeted Therapy
Authors: González-Medina Alberto , Vila-Casadesús Maria , Gomez-Rey Marina , Fabregat-Franco Carles , Sierra Alexandre , Tian Tian V. , Castet Florian , Castillo Gloria , Matito Judit , Martinez Paola , Miquel Josep M. , Nuciforo Paolo , Pérez-López Raquel , Macarulla Teresa , Vivancos Ana
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

FGFR2 fusions occur in 10% to 15% of patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), potentially benefiting from FGFR inhibitors (FGFRi). We aimed to assess the feasibility of detecting FGFR2 fusions in plasma and explore plasma biomarkers for managing FGFRi treatment.

Experimental Design:

We conducted a retrospective study in 18 patients with iCCA and known FGFR2 fusions previously identified in tissue samples from prior FGFRi treatment. Both tissue and synchronous plasma samples were analyzed using a custom hybrid capture gene panel with next-generation sequencing (VHIO-iCCA panel) and validated against commercial vendor results. Longitudinal plasma analysis during FGFRi was performed. Subsequently, we explored the correlation between plasma biomarkers, liver enzymes, tumor volume, and clinical outcomes.

Results:

Sixteen patients (88.9%) were positive for FGFR2 fusion events in plasma. Remarkably, the analysis of plasma suggests that lower levels of ctDNA are linked to clinical benefits from targeted therapy and result in improved progression-free survival and overall survival. Higher concentrations of cell-free DNA before FGFRi treatment were linked to worse overall survival, correlating with impaired liver function and indicating compromised cell-free DNA removal by the liver. Additionally, increased ctDNA or the emergence of resistance mutations allowed earlier detection of disease progression compared with standard radiologic imaging methods.

Conclusions:

VHIO-iCCA demonstrated accurate detection of FGFR2 fusions in plasma. The integration of information from various plasma biomarkers holds the potential to predict clinical outcomes and identify treatment failure prior to radiologic progression, offering valuable guidance for the clinical management of patients with iCCA.
Table S3 from E2F1-Associated Purine Synthesis Pathway Is a Major Component of the MET-DNA Damage Response Network
Authors: Poliaková Turan Michaela , Riedo Rahel , Medo Matúš , Pozzato Chiara , Friese-Hamim Manja , Koch Jonas P. , Coggins Si’Ana A. , Li Qun , Kim Baek , Albers Joachim , Aebersold Daniel M. , Zamboni Nicola , Zimmer Yitzhak , Medová Michaela
Published: July 2024

Basic statistics of the downloaded TCGA data.
Figure 2 from E2F1-Associated Purine Synthesis Pathway Is a Major Component of the MET-DNA Damage Response Network
Authors: Poliaková Turan Michaela , Riedo Rahel , Medo Matúš , Pozzato Chiara , Friese-Hamim Manja , Koch Jonas P. , Coggins Si’Ana A. , Li Qun , Kim Baek , Albers Joachim , Aebersold Daniel M. , Zamboni Nicola , Zimmer Yitzhak , Medová Michaela
Published: July 2024

Metabolic changes in MET-driven and non-MET-driven cancer cells and xenografts. A, Pathway enrichment analysis upon MET inhibition (N = 3, |log2FC| > 0.5; adj. P value < 0.01) revealed alterations observed in 12 MET-expressing cell lines upon 24 hours of METi. B, Changes in the abundance of the three metabolite ions [5′-phosphoribosyl-N-formylglycinamide (FGAR), phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate (PRPP), and deoxythymidine diphosphate (dTDP)] that change most upon METi in MET-driven cell lines. Symbol sizes represent the adjusted P values from 1 (smallest) to 10−8 (largest) using a log scale. No significant changes in these ions occurred in the non-MET-driven cell lines H1648, H820, HCC827, and Y1248H. C, Left, Differences in metabolite ion (symbols) abundance in METi- and vehicle-treated tumor xenografts. Symbols corresponding to statistically significant differences (|log2FC| > 0.5; P value < 0.01) are indicated in dark blue, and FGAR is marked in red. Right, Changes in the FGAR metabolite ion abundance in HCC827 and EBC-1 tumor xenografts upon METi.
Figure 1 from E2F1-Associated Purine Synthesis Pathway Is a Major Component of the MET-DNA Damage Response Network
Authors: Poliaková Turan Michaela , Riedo Rahel , Medo Matúš , Pozzato Chiara , Friese-Hamim Manja , Koch Jonas P. , Coggins Si’Ana A. , Li Qun , Kim Baek , Albers Joachim , Aebersold Daniel M. , Zamboni Nicola , Zimmer Yitzhak , Medová Michaela
Published: July 2024

Responses of a panel of MET-positive MET-driven and non-MET-driven human cancer cell models to selective MET targeting. A, Whole-cell lysates were subjected to Western blotting using specific antibodies against MET, pMET, and pS6 following the treatment either with vehicle or 50 nmol/L tepotinib (EMD1214063, shortly EMD) for 24 hours. Western blots representative of N = 3 independent experiments are shown. B, Whole-cell lysates were subjected to Western blotting using a specific antibody against p4E-BP1 following the treatment either with vehicle or 50 nmol/L tepotinib (EMD1214063, shortly EMD) for 24 hours. Western blots representative of N = 3 independent experiments are shown. C, EBC-1 (top) and HCC827 (bottom) xenograft tumor volume upon vehicle or METi treatment (N = 10). D, pMET Tyr1234/5 expression in EBC-1 (left) and HCC827 (right) tumor xenografts treated by vehicle or METi (sampling was performed 2 hours posttreatment). Representative images (top) and quantification of pMET-positive area (bottom) are provided [EBC-1: N = 10 (control), N = 10 (tepotinib); HCC827: N = 6 (control), N = 4 (tepotinib); unpaired Student t test, *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001]. E, Representative images (left) of nuclear foci of γH2AX in MET-driven GTL-16 and EBC-1 and non-MET-driven HCC827 and H820 cells. Untreated or METi-treated (50 nmol/L) cells were fixed; γH2AX-positive foci were visualized by confocal microscopy and counted (right), N = 3, unpaired Student t test, *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001.
Figure S8 from N-Myristoytransferase Inhibition Causes Mitochondrial Iron Overload and Parthanatos in TIM17A-Dependent Aggressive Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Geroyska Sofia , Mejia Isabel , Chan Alfred A. , Navarrete Marian , Pandey Vijaya , Kharpatin Samuel , Noguti Juliana , Wang Feng , Srole Daniel , Chou Tsui-Fen , Wohlschlegel James , Nemeth Elizabeta , Damoiseaux Robert , Shackelford David B. , Lee Delphine J. , Díaz Begoña
Published: July 2024

NMTi treatment induces features of parthanatos in vitro and in vivo.
Figure S7 from N-Myristoytransferase Inhibition Causes Mitochondrial Iron Overload and Parthanatos in TIM17A-Dependent Aggressive Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Geroyska Sofia , Mejia Isabel , Chan Alfred A. , Navarrete Marian , Pandey Vijaya , Kharpatin Samuel , Noguti Juliana , Wang Feng , Srole Daniel , Chou Tsui-Fen , Wohlschlegel James , Nemeth Elizabeta , Damoiseaux Robert , Shackelford David B. , Lee Delphine J. , Díaz Begoña
Published: July 2024

Treatment with necroptosis and pyroptosis inhibitors fail to prevent cell death induced by of NMTi treatment in lung carcinoma cells.
Pre- and Periviable PPROM after Fetoscopic Laser Surgery: Are Survival Outcomes Better than We Think?
Authors: Breslin Noelle , Jacob Taylor , Baptiste Caitlin , Thompson Jaqueline , Chen Cheng , Bejerano Shai , Fung-Masson Cynthia , Nhan-Chang Chia-Ling , Simpson Lynn L. , Miller Russell
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Limited data exist regarding outcomes when pre- and periviable PPROM (PPROM ≤26 weeks of gestation) occurs as a complication of fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of FLS cases performed at a single institution between January 2015 and May 2021. Study inclusion was limited to patients with monochorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS who underwent FLS. Patients were grouped by pPPROM status, and further stratified to those continuing with expectant management, and outcomes were compared between groups. The primary outcome was survival to live birth of at least one twin. Results: During the study period, 171 patients underwent FLS and a total of 96 (56.1%) subjects satisfied inclusion criteria. Among included subjects, 18 (18.8%) experienced pPPROM after FLS and 78 (81.2%) did not. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Among patients with pPPROM, 11 (61.1%) pursued expectant management and 7 (38.9%) opted for pregnancy termination. Among expectantly managed subjects, median pPPROM-to-delivery interval was 47.0 days (6.0–66.0 IQR) with a median gestational age at delivery of 29+1 weeks (24 + 4–33 + 6 IQR). Rates of survival to live birth of at least one twin (90.9% vs. 96.2% p = 0.42) were similar between those with pPPROM undergoing expectant management and those without pPPROM. Dual survivorship (45.5% vs. 78.2%, p = 0.03), perinatal survival to live birth (68.2% vs. 87.2%, p = 0.05), and perinatal survival to newborn hospital discharge (59.1% vs. 85.9%, p = <0.01) were all significantly lower among those with pPPROM. Gestational age at delivery was lower among those continuing with pregnancies complicated by pPPROM (29 + 1 vs. 32+5 weeks, p = <0.01). Conclusion: Survival of at least one twin to live birth remained high among those pursing expectant management after experiencing post-FLS pPPROM, suggesting that the outlook after this complication is not necessarily poor. However, this complication was associated with lower chances of dual survival and greater prematurity.
A Novel Procedure for Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Mediastinal Cryobiopsy with a Puncture Dilation Catheter
Authors: Tong Run , Deng Mingming , Zheng Ziwen , Zhou Guowu , Bian Yiding , Zhao Ling , Herth Felix J.F. , Hou Gang
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided transbronchial mediastinal cryobiopsy (TBMC) is increasingly used to diagnose mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Various methods have been used to create a tunnel between the airway wall and the lesions for this procedure, such as electrocautery and penetration with the sheath of the needle for EBUS-transbronchial fine needle aspiration. However, those methods are complex. Case Presentation: We developed a new technique called EBUS-TBMC via a tunnel, and we used it in four cases of mediastinal and/or hilar lymphadenopathy. We used a puncture dilation catheter to create a tunnel between the airway wall and the target lymph node. The cryoprobe was introduced to the target lymph node and cooled with liquid carbon dioxide for 5–9 s. The probe was subsequently pulled out with the samples to complete the EBUS-TBMC via a tunnel. A definite diagnosis was made based on pathological examination of the samples obtained in all four cases. After the procedure, none of the patients experienced moderate to severe bleeding, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, or other adverse events. Conclusion: EBUS-TBMC via a tunnel is a feasible and convenient procedure for the performance of TBMC. Further studies are required to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EBUS-TBMC via a tunnel.
The effect of pre-hospital use of RAS inhibitors on COVID-19 mortality
Authors: Ibrahim Rama
Published: July 2024

The effect of pre-hospital use of renin–angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)) on clinical outcomes of hypertensive patients with COVID-19 has been questioned due to conflicting reports on this issue. After applying exclusion criteria, 175 COVID-19 hospitalized patients admitted to the Tishreen Hospital from January 1 to July 31, 2021 were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Baseline characteristics and in-hospital mortality rate were assessed between hypertensive (N = 91, 52%) and non-hypertensive (N = 84, 48%) patients, as well as between patients taking ACEis/ARBs and non-ACEis/ARBs within the hypertensive group. A lower mortality rate (51.2 versus 31.9%, p = 0.009) was observed in the hypertensive group (mean age 64.6 years, 64.8% males) compared to the non-hypertensive (mean age 62.6 years, 66.7% males). Patients’ mortality in the non-hypertensive group was associated with lower blood oxygen saturation (SPO2 = 75 versus 86%, p = 0.002), increased levels of inflammatory (CRP, white blood cell and neutrophils count), and tissue/renal injury markers (LDH, urea, and creatinine). In the hypertensive group, a lower mortality rate was noted in the ACEis/ARBs group compared to the non-ACEis/ARBs (24.1 versus 45.5%, p = 0.036), and this was associated with a decrease in D-DIMER levels, although not significant (1723 versus 2683 ng/mL, p > 0.05). Death in the non-ACEis/ARBs group was associated with decreased SPO2 and tissue/renal injury markers (LDH, CK, AST, urea, and creatinine). We concluded that hypertension is not a direct cause of poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients and that multi-organ damage is a significant indicator of death from COVID-19. RAS inhibitors could improve the survival of hypertensive COVID-19 patients.
Hope of success relates to the memory for unsolved compared to solved anagrams
Authors: Ghibellini Romain , Meier Beat
Published: July 2024

It is widely believed that unfinished tasks are better remembered than finished tasks, a phenomenon labelled the “Zeigarnik-Effect.” It has been argued that this advantage relies on the persisting tension inherent in uncompleted intentions. However, this interpretation has been challenged. First, the memory advantage could not be reliably replicated. Second, a memory advantage can still be observed when the unfinished status of an uncompleted intention is inherently terminated, rendering the “persisting tension” explanation unlikely. The goal of this study was to investigate the potential memory advantage of interrupted but finished tasks and its relation to the personality disposition achievement motivation, specifically, hope of success and fear of failure. This goal was motivated by the hypothesis that the experience of a discrepancy between the anticipation of success and the subsequent failure would relate to the memory for an unfinished task, and that this discrepancy experience would be stronger for people high in hope of success. A large sample of adults (>1,000 participants) was presented with 12 anagrams. If they did not solve an anagram within 60 s, they were shown the solution. Afterwards, we measured free recall of the anagram solutions and assessed achievement motivation. Overall, participants recalled more unsolved anagrams than solved anagrams. However, only individuals high in hope of success displayed a greater tendency to remember unsolved anagrams. This study supports the idea that a discrepancy experience rather than persisting tension coincides with memory for unsolved tasks.