bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TRPM4 inhibition slows neuritogenesis progression of cortical neurons
Authors: Riquelme Denise , Juanchuto-Viertel Nicole , Álamos Carlos , Leiva-Salcedo Elias
Published: September 2024

TRPM4 is a non-selective cation channel activated by intracellular Ca2+ but only permeable to monovalent cations, its activation regulates membrane potential and intracellular calcium. This channel participates in the migration and adhesion of non-excitable cells and forms an integral part of the focal adhesion complex. In neurons, TRPM4 expression starts before birth and its function at this stage is not clear, but it may function in processes such as neurite development. Here we investigate the role of TRPM4 in neuritogenesis. We found that neurons at DIV 0 express TRPM4, the inhibition of TRPM4 using 9-Ph reduces neurite number and slows the progression of neurite development, keeping neurons in stage 1. The genetic suppression of TRPM4 using an shRNA at later stages (DIV2) reduces neurite length. Conversely, at DIV 0, TRPM4 inhibition augments the Cch-induced Ca2 + i increase, altering the calcium homeostasis. Together, these results show that TRPM4 participates in progression of neurite development and suggest a critical role of the calcium modulation during this stage of neuronal development.
Development of the Better Research Interactions for Every Family (BRIEF) intervention to support recruitment for neonatal clinical trials: an intervention mapping guided approach
Authors: Weiss Elliott Mark , Gray Megan M. , Ko Linda K. , Duenas Devan M. , Oslin Ellie , Kraft Stephanie A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Recruitment for neonatal clinical trials can be particularly challenging. Low enrollment rates bias the research population and decrease generalizability of findings. We identified a critical need for an intervention to improve how researchers recruit for neonatal clinical trials. Working within the US neonatal research context, we developed the Better Research Interactions for Every Family (BRIEF) Intervention, which had two overarching goals: to improve the recruitment experience for all parents, focusing on minoritized populations, and to increase participation, focusing on decreasing disparities in research participation.

Methods

We used intervention mapping (IM) to guide all steps of intervention development. IM is a planning framework that provides a systematic process and detailed protocol for step-by-step decision-making for intervention development, implementation, and evaluation.

Results

We performed IM’s six steps. In step 1, we convened two stakeholder groups, a parent panel and an expert panel, who provided guidance through development of all BRIEF components. Through a recent systematic review, empirical data collected by our team, and consultations with the panels, we identified key determinants (barriers and facilitators) of low enrollment rates and research team members as change agents. In step 2, we iteratively refined our list of key factors to include and linked determinants of behavior changes to these performance objectives. In step 3, we chose three theories (social cognitive theory, theory of information processing, and the trans-theoretical model), methods from identified practical applications suitable for the population (research team members) and the context (busy research NICU teams). In step 4, we developed and refined the intervention components, including self-guided pre-work and a single in-person session. In step 5, we identified the Darbepoetin plus slow-release intravenous iron trial as our partner study in which to pilot BRIEF. In step 6, we developed a multi-stage evaluation plan that included five distinct levels of outcomes.

Conclusions

This manuscript shares our rationale and processes for the creation of a research team member-facing intervention aiming to improve recruitment processes for neonatal clinical trials. Our approach can inform those aiming to improve recruitment for neonatal clinical trials and those who may be considering use of IM within similar contexts.
Report of a new species of sand fly, Phlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii n. sp. (Diptera: Psychodidae), from Western Ghats, India
Authors: Shah Harish Kumar , Fathima P. A. , Jicksy Jose , Saini Prasanta
Published: September 2024

Background

Western Ghats is a biodiversity treasure trove with reports of indigenous leishmaniasis cases. Hence, systematic sand fly surveillance was carried out among the tribal population. The present study reports a novel sand fly species, Phlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii n. sp. (Diptera: Psychodidae), discovered in the Western Ghats of India.

Methods

A comprehensive sand fly survey was conducted across the Kollam, Thrissur, Idukki, Kasaragod and Malappuram districts of Kerala, India. The survey spanned both indoor and outdoor habitats using standard collection methods over a 3-year, 3-month period. DNA barcoding of samples was performed targeting mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, and the sequence generated was subjected to phylogenetic analysis.

Results

Phlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii, a new sand fly species, is recorded and described in this communication. The morphological relationship of the new species to other members of the subgenus Anaphlebotomus is discussed. Mitochondrial COI barcode followed by phylogenetic analysis confirmed that specimens of Ph. ajithii belong to the same taxonomic group, while a genetic distance of 11.7% from congeners established it as a distinct species.

Conclusions

The Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity, has lacked systematic entomological surveys focusing on sand flies. This study aims to fill this gap and reports and describes a new species of sand fly.

Graphical abstract
Association between weekend warrior physical activity pattern and all-cause mortality among adults living with type 2 diabetes: a prospective cohort study from NHANES 2007 to 2018
Authors: Mahe Jinli , Xu Ao , Liu Li , Hua Lei , Tu Huiming , Huo Yujia , Huang Weiyuan , Liu Xinru , Wang Jian , Tang Jinhao , Zhao Yang , Liu Zhining , Hong Qiaojun , Ye Rong , Hu Panpan , Jia Peng , Huang Junjie , Kong Xiangyi , Ge Zongyuan , Xu Aimin , Wu Longfei , Du Chaopin , Shi Feng , Cui Hanbin , Wang Shengfeng , Li Zhihui , Wang Liang , Zhang Lei , Zhang Lin
Published: September 2024

Background

It is uncertain whether the weekend warrior pattern is associated with all-cause mortality among adults living with type 2 diabetes. This study explored how the ‘weekend warrior’ physical activity (PA) pattern was associated with all-cause mortality among adults living with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This prospective cohort study investigated US adults living with type 2 diabetes in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Mortality data was linked to the National Death Index. Based on self-reported leisure-time and occupational moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), participants were categorized into 3 groups: physically inactive (< 150 min/week of MVPA), weekend warrior (≥ 150 min/week of MVPA in 1 or 2 sessions), and physically active (≥ 150 min/week of MVPA in 3 or more sessions).

Results

A total of 6067 participants living with type 2 diabetes [mean (SD) age, 61.4 (13.5) years; 48.0% females] were followed for a median of 6.1 years, during which 1206 deaths were recorded. Of leisure-time and occupational activity, compared with inactive individuals, hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause mortality were 0.49 (95% CI 0.26–0.91) and 0.57 (95% CI 0.38–0.85) for weekend warrior individuals, and 0.55 (95% CI 0.45–0.67) and 0.64 (95% CI 0.53–0.76) for regularly active individuals, respectively. However, when compared leisure-time and occupational weekend warrior with regularly active participants, the HRs were 0.82 (95% CI 0.42–1.61) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.64–1.56) for all-cause mortality, respectively.

Conclusions

Weekend warrior PA pattern may have similar effects on lowering all-cause mortality as regularly active pattern among adults living with type 2 diabetes, regardless of leisure-time or occupational activity. Therefore, weekend warrior PA pattern may be sufficient to reduce all-cause mortality for adults living with type 2 diabetes.
Focal cortical dysplasia lesion segmentation using multiscale transformer
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Zhang Yongquan , Wang Changmiao , Li Lin , Zhu Fengjun , Sun Yang , Mo Tong , Hu Qingmao , Xu Jinping , Cao Dezhi
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Accurate segmentation of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) lesions from MR images plays an important role in surgical planning and decision but is still challenging for radiologists and clinicians. In this study, we introduce a novel transformer-based model, designed for the end-to-end segmentation of FCD lesions from multi-channel MR images.

Methods

The core innovation of our proposed model is the integration of a convolutional neural network-based encoder-decoder structure with a multiscale transformer to augment the feature representation of lesions in the global field of view. Transformer pathways, composed of memory- and computation-efficient dual-self-attention modules, leverage feature maps from varying depths of the encoder to discern long-range interdependencies among feature positions and channels, thereby emphasizing areas and channels relevant to lesions. The proposed model was trained and evaluated on a public-open dataset including MR images of 85 patients using both subject-level and voxel-level metrics.

Results

Experimental results indicate that our model offers superior performance both quantitatively and qualitatively. It successfully identified lesions in 82.4% of patients, with a low false-positive lesion cluster rate of 0.176 ± 0.381 per patient. Furthermore, the model achieved an average Dice coefficient of 0.410 ± 0.288, outperforming five established methods.

Conclusion

Integration of the transformer could enhance the feature presentation and segmentation performance of FCD lesions. The proposed model has the potential to serve as a valuable assistive tool for physicians, enabling rapid and accurate identification of FCD lesions. The source code and pre-trained model weights are available at https://github.com/zhangxd0530/MS-DSA-NET.

Critical relevance statement

This multiscale transformer-based model performs segmentation of focal cortical dysplasia lesions, aiming to help radiologists and clinicians make accurate and efficient preoperative evaluations of focal cortical dysplasia patients from MR images.

Key Points

The first transformer-based model was built to explore focal cortical dysplasia lesion segmentation.

Integration of global and local features enhances the segmentation performance of lesions.

A valuable benchmark for model development and comparative analyses was provided.

Graphical Abstract
Brain perfusion SPECT in the presurgical evaluation of epilepsy: is additional ictal SPECT required in case of high-confidence lateralization of the seizure onset zone by interictal SPECT and vice versa?
Authors: Baradaran-Salimi Kian , Karimzadeh Amir , Voges Berthold , Apostolova Ivayla , Sauvigny Thomas , Simova Olga , Lanz Michael , Klutmann Susanne , Stodieck Stefan , Meyer Philipp T. , Buchert Ralph
Published: September 2024

Background

Ictal brain perfusion SPECT provides higher sensitivity for the identification of the epileptic seizure onset zone (SOZ) than interictal SPECT. However, ictal SPECT is demanding due to the unpredictable waiting period for the next seizure to allow for ictal tracer injection. Thus, starting with an interictal scan and skipping the ictal scan if the interictal scan provides a SOZ candidate with high confidence could be an efficient approach. The current study estimated the rate of high-confidence SOZ candidates and the false lateralization rate among them for interictal and ictal SPECT.

Methods

177 patients (48% females, median age 38y, interquartile range 27–48y) with ictal and interictal SPECT acquired with 99mTc-HMPAO (n = 141) or -ECD (n = 36) were included retrospectively. The vast majority of the patients was suspected to have temporal lobe epilepsy. Visual interpretation of the SPECT data was performed independently by 3 readers in 3 settings: “interictal only” (interictal SPECT and statistical hypoperfusion map), “ictal only” (ictal SPECT and hyperperfusion map), and “full” setting (side-by-side interpretation of ictal and interictal SPECT including statistical maps and SISCOM analysis). The readers lateralized the SOZ (right, left, none) and characterized their confidence using a 5-score. A case was considered "lateralizing with high confidence” if all readers lateralized to the same hemisphere with at least 4 of 5 confidence points. Lateralization of the SOZ in the “full” setting was used as reference standard.

Results

The proportion of “lateralizing with high confidence” cases was 4.5/31.6/38.4% in the “interictal only”/“ictal only”/“full” setting. One (12.5%) of the 8 cases that were “lateralizing with high confidence” in the “interictal only” setting lateralized to the wrong hemisphere. Among the 56 cases that were “lateralizing with high confidence” in the “ictal only” setting, 54 (96.4%) were also lateralizing in the “full” setting, all to the same hemisphere.

Conclusions

Starting brain perfusion SPECT in the presurgical evaluation of epilepsy with an interictal scan to skip the ictal scan in case of a high-confidence interictal SOZ candidate is not a useful approach. In contrast, starting with an ictal scan to skip the interictal scan in case of a high-confidence ictal SOZ candidate can be recommended.
Perceptions of extended-release buprenorphine among people who received medication for opioid use disorder in jail: a qualitative study
Authors: Stopka Thomas J. , Rottapel Rebecca , Friedmann Peter D. , Pivovarova Ekaterina , Evans Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Incarceration provides an opportunity for health interventions, including opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment and prevention of opioid-related overdoses post-release. All FDA-approved forms of medication for OUD (MOUD) treatment were mandated in several Massachusetts jails in 2019, with some jails offering extended-release buprenorphine (XR-Bup). Little is known about patient perspectives on and experiences with XR-Bup in carceral settings.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews in 2022 with community-dwelling people who received MOUD during a recent incarceration in a Massachusetts jail. We asked participants about their experiences with and perspectives on XR-Bup while in jail. Qualitative data were double-coded deductively and reviewed inductively to identify emergent themes, which were structured using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA).

Results

Participants (n = 38) had a mean age of 41.5 years, were 86% male, 84% White, 24% Hispanic, and 95% continued to receive MOUD at the time of their interview, including 11% receiving XR-Bup. Participants who viewed XR-Bup favorably appreciated avoiding the taste of sublingual buprenorphine; avoiding procedural difficulties and indignities associated with daily dosing in carceral settings (e.g., mouth checks, stigmatizing treatment from correctional staff); avoiding daily reminders of their addiction; experiencing less withdrawal; having extra time for other activities, such as work; and reduction of diversion of MOUD within the jail setting. Participants who viewed XR-Bup less favorably preferred to maintain their daily dosing routine; liked daily time out of their housing unit; wanted to know what was “going into my body everyday”; and feared needles and adverse events. Participants also reported that jail clinicians used XR-Bup for patients who were previously caught diverting sublingual buprenorphine, suggesting limited patient participation in decision-making around XR-Bup initiation in some jails.

Conclusion

People who received MOUD in Massachusetts jails had both favorable and unfavorable views and experiences with XR-Bup. Understanding these preferences can inform protocols in jails that are considering implementation of XR-Bup treatment.
Characterization of acidogenic phase metabolism in Clostridium acetobutylicum ATCC 824 (pCD07239) under different culture conditions
Authors: Lee Haeng Lim , Ashoor Selim , Yao Zhuang , Jang Yu-Sin
Published: September 2024

In this study, we investigated the metabolic behavior of the engineered Clostridium acetobutylicum ATCC 824 (pCD07239) strain during the acidogenic phase under varying glucose concentrations and pH conditions. Unlike the wild-type C. acetobutylicum ATCC 824, the engineered strain exhibited negligible butyrate production and simultaneous butanol production during the acidogenic phase under limited glucose condition of 25 g/L. Specifically, batch fermentations of the engineered strain with 25 g/L glucose at a pH of around 5.0 (initially uncontrolled) demonstrated butanol production of 2.99 g/L, while butyrate remained below 0.30 g/L. Separately, in batch fermentations at pH 6.0 with 90 g/L glucose, acetate production nearly doubled compared to fermentations at pH 5.0 with the same glucose concentrations, reaching a maximum concentration of 11.43 g/L, while butyrate production remained relatively low at 4.04 g/L. Under these pH 6.0 and 90 g/L glucose conditions, butanol production reached 9.86 g/L. These findings indicate that C. acetobutylicum ATCC 824 (pCD07239) maintained low butyrate production, even under conditions favoring acidogenesis, and consistently produced butanol. Additionally, the negligible production of acetone at pH 6.0 further indicates that the traditional phase transition was not prominent, suggesting altered regulation mechanisms in the engineered strain. These findings highlight C. acetobutylicum ATCC 824 (pCD07239) strain’s unique metabolic profile and its potential for efficient biobutanol production under diverse conditions.
Discrimination of ULF signals from an underground seismogenic current
Authors: Pilipenko V. A. , Mazur N. G. , Fedorov E. N.
Published: September 2024

A numerical model has been elaborated to calculate ULF electromagnetic fields in the ground-atmosphere–ionosphere system created by an underground horizontal current source of a finite length. The modeling has enabled us to examine in detail characteristic features of ULF response to an underground large-scale emitter that may be used for a search of electromagnetic earthquake precursors. The most promising features that might discriminate signals from an underground source and from a magnetosphere-ionosphere source are (a) the apparent impedance of the electromagnetic field derived from simultaneous observations of horizontal magnetic and electric fields, and (b) the ratio of vertical and horizontal magnetic component amplitudes. Besides that, the amplitude-phase gradients of signals from an underground source differ significantly from those of the magnetospheric source. For the same magnitude of horizontal magnetic disturbance on surface, an underground current source produces in a borehole a much larger vertical electric field Ez than a magnetospheric source does. At the same time, some properties, such as the ratio between the vertical and horizontal electric components, are shown to be ineffective. However, all these differences with ionosphere-magnetosphere source reveal themselves only in a vicinity of lithospheric source (< 30 km for depth 20 km).

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of generative AI performance on undergraduate and postgraduate written assessments in the biomedical sciences
Authors: Williams Andrew
Published: September 2024

The value of generative AI tools in higher education has received considerable attention. Although there are many proponents of its value as a learning tool, many are concerned with the issues regarding academic integrity and its use by students to compose written assessments. This study evaluates and compares the output of three commonly used generative AI tools, ChatGPT, Bing and Bard. Each AI tool was prompted with an essay question from undergraduate (UG) level 4 (year 1), level 5 (year 2), level 6 (year 3) and postgraduate (PG) level 7 biomedical sciences courses. Anonymised AI generated output was then evaluated by four independent markers, according to specified marking criteria and matched to the Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) of UK level descriptors. Percentage scores and ordinal grades were given for each marking criteria across AI generated papers, inter-rater reliability was calculated using Kendall’s coefficient of concordance and generative AI performance ranked. Across all UG and PG levels, ChatGPT performed better than Bing or Bard in areas of scientific accuracy, scientific detail and context. All AI tools performed consistently well at PG level compared to UG level, although only ChatGPT consistently met levels of high attainment at all UG levels. ChatGPT and Bing did not provide adequate references, while Bing falsified references. In conclusion, generative AI tools are useful for providing scientific information consistent with the academic standards required of students in written assignments. These findings have broad implications for the design, implementation and grading of written assessments in higher education.
Carcinoid crisis in Lutetium-177-Dotatate therapy of neuroendocrine tumors: an overview of pathophysiology, risk factors, recognition, and treatment
Authors: Sozio Stephen J. , Raynor William , Becker Murray C. , Yudd Anthony , Kempf Jeffrey S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Lutetium-177-Dotatate (Lutathera®) is a combined radionuclide-peptide that is FDA-approved for the treatment of well-differentiated, somatostatin receptor-positive, gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Carcinoid crisis is a rare, but potentially life-threatening risk of this radiopharmaceutical, of which prompt recognition and treatment is essential to reducing morbidity. This manuscript provides an overview of the topic to promote awareness of this adverse event, with emphasis on early recognition and management. In addition, we present our institution’s experience with Lutetium-177-Dotatate-associated complications across a five-year period.

Methods

A literature review of lutetium-177-dotatate therapy and its potential implication of carcinoid crisis was performed. Additionally, a review of our institution’s experience is presented.

Results

The incidence of carcinoid crisis induced by Lutetium-177-Dotatate therapy is estimated to range between 1 and 2% of treatment recipients. Those who have tumors located within the midgut, higher tumor burden, and the presence of metastasis have an increased risk of developing carcinoid crisis, among other risk factors. Carcinoid crisis is most often encountered within 12–48 h of receiving the first treatment dose, with the most common symptoms being nausea/vomiting, flushing, and diarrhea.

Conclusion

Carcinoid crisis is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of Lutetium-177-Dotatate therapy. Knowledge of risk factors and prompt recognition of symptoms is essential to successful treatment, with early initiation of intravenous octreotide serving a critical step in reducing morbidity of this adverse event.
Role of intraoperative cranial ultrasonography in detection of residual brain lesions during surgery
Authors: Gomaa Mahmoud Ahmed , Hussein Mohamed Ahmed , Hussein Mohamed Abdellatif , Osman Ashraf Abdellatif
Published: September 2024

Background

The use of IOUS is increasingly common in recent neurosurgical practice. IOUS has become very valuable in neurosurgery. It plays a key role in the localization of space-occupying lesion location and decreasing operation time and hence improves both surgical efficiency and safety. Ultrasound is very useful in the determination of the lesion location, its most superficial portion, and in differentiation between solid tumors and cystic components.

Results

Intraoperative ultrasonography has a significant edge over the other intraoperative aids for image guidance in brain surgery, especially in terms of independence, cost, and adaptability to multiple different clinical scenarios. Ultrasound-based neuro-navigation is an easy-to-use, fast, and safe technique of real-time imaging for various neurosurgical procedures.

Conclusion

We conclude that ultrasound-based neuro-navigation is an easy-to-use, fast, and safe technique of real-time imaging for various neurosurgical procedures.
Possible effects of lumbar stabilization surgery on sagittal alignment, disability and quality of life
Authors: Doğan Kadirhan , Aydincak Özgen , Yiğit Hüseyin , Unur Erdoğan
Published: September 2024

Background

In order to restore the individual's health in lumbar stabilization surgeries, it is aimed to bring the sagittal alignment closer to normal values, to eliminate the findings, and thus to increase the quality of life of the individual by reducing the disability level. The aim of this study is to measure the effects of lumbar region stabilization surgeries performed in our clinic on some angular values in the spine, disability and quality of life. Preoperative (preop) and postoperative (postop) radiographs of 30 individuals over the age of 40 who applied to our clinic with various lumbar region complaints and underwent lumbar stabilization surgery between the years 2020–2022 were taken. Lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, sacral slope and pelvic inclination angles were measured from the images obtained. The Visual Analog Scale was used to measure the pain of individuals, the Oswestry Disability Index to measure the disability level, and the Nottingham Health Profile questionnaire to measure the quality of life. Preop and postop data were analyzed with the SPSS 23.0 program and p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The lumbar lordosis angles of individuals who underwent lumbar stabilization surgery approached normal values and the difference between preop–postop lumbar lordosis angle averages was significant (p < 0.05); It was observed that the harmony between the lumbar lordosis and pelvic inclination angles increased, the pain decreased and the difference between preop–postop pain values was significant (p < 0.05), disability levels decreased and quality of life increased.

Conclusions

The decrease in the level of disability and the increase in the quality of life seen in individuals who underwent lumbar stabilization surgery were associated with the decrease in pain; The changes in angular values are considered to be clinically significant.
Post-traumatic stress disorder among nursing students at Palestine Polytechnique University during the Gaza war and the attack on the health care system
Authors: Amro Nadia
Published: September 2024

Background

Gaza war and the attack on the healthcare system and healthcare personnel influenced the Palestinian people’s psychological status, especially healthcare professionals and university students.

Aim

The study aims to explore the impact of Gaza war on nursing students of Palestine Polytechnique University (PPU).

Method

In a cross-sectional design, 272 nursing students completed the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Chi-square test used to examine the association of PTSD severity with demographic variables; independent samples t-tests and ANOVA were used to compare means of PTSD subscales (intrusion, avoidance, and hyperarousal); relationships between subscale scores and the total IES-R score were assessed using Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

71.3% of the Nursing students had high levels of PTSD symptoms, 14.7% were classified as having probable PTSD diagnosis, 10.7% had clinical concerns, and 3.3% with no clinical concern; hyperarousal and intrusion were the highest subscale scores; females showed higher levels of PTSD symptoms compared to males (p < .05); feelings of guilt when practicing happy events; negative impact on study significantly associated with higher PTSD severity (p < .05).

Conclusion

The study highlighted the significant impact of Gaza war events on nursing students’ mental health as evidenced by a high level of PSTD symptoms, despite the aggressive attack on health care system during war on Gaza students found to have high willingness to challenge and pursue in their future nursing career.

Implications

Targeted supportive mental health programs, resiliency, and coping mechanisms are needed for nursing students in the Palestinian context.
Artificial intelligence as an initial reader for double reading in breast cancer screening: a prospective initial study of 32,822 mammograms of the Egyptian population
Authors: Mansour Sahar , Sweed Enas , Gomaa Mohammed Mohammed Mohammed , Hussein Samar Ahmed , Abdallah Engy , Nada Yassmin Mohamed , Kamal Rasha , Mohamed Ghada , Taha Sherif Nasser , Moustafa Amr Farouk Ibrahim
Published: September 2024

Background

Although artificial intelligence (AI) has potential in the field of screening of breast cancer, there are still issues. It is vital to make sure AI does not overlook cancer or cause needless recalls. The aim of this work was to investigate the effectiveness of indulging AI in combination with one radiologist in the routine double reading of mammography for breast cancer screening. The study prospectively analyzed 32,822 screening mammograms. Reading was performed in a blind-paired style by (i) two radiologists and (ii) one radiologist paired with AI. A heatmap and abnormality scoring percentage were provided by AI for abnormalities detected on mammograms. Negative mammograms and benign-looking lesions that were not biopsied were confirmed by a 2-year follow-up.

Results

Double reading by the radiologist and AI detected 1324 cancers (6.4%); on the other side, reading by two radiologists revealed 1293 cancers (6.2%) and presented a relative proportion of 1·02 (p < 0·0001). At the recall stage, suspicion and biopsy recommendation were more presented by the AI plus one radiologist combination than by the two radiologists. The interpretation of the mammogram by AI plus only one radiologist showed a sensitivity of 94.03%, a specificity of 99.75%, a positive predictive value of 96.571%, a negative predictive value of 99.567%, and an accuracy of 99.369% (from 99.252 to 99.472%). The positive likelihood ratio was 387.260, negative likelihood ratio was 0.060, and AUC “area under the curve” was 0.969 (0.967–0.971).

Conclusions

AI could be used as an initial reader for the evaluation of screening mammography in routine workflow. Implementation of AI enhanced the opportunity to reduce false negative cases and supported the decision to recall or biopsy.
Vasculitis associated with psoriatic arthritis: a case report
Authors: Jafarpour Mehdi , Rahbari Bita , Mehramuz Bahareh , Daneshvar Sara
Published: September 2024

Background

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition associated with psoriasis, which affects joints. The coexistence of vasculitis, an inflammation of blood vessels, with psoriatic arthritis is rare, highlighting a complex interplay between autoimmune diseases that affect both joints and vascular structures.

Case presentation

We report on a 56-year-old male with a long-standing history of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, who presented with new-onset skin lesions and neurological symptoms. Clinical evaluations confirmed the presence of leukocytoclastic vasculitis and asymmetric sensory motor axonal neuropathy. The absence of positive results from various standard tests led to a challenging diagnostic process, ultimately pointing towards vasculitis associated with psoriatic arthritis. The patient was treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy, leading to partial symptom improvement.

Conclusions

This case underlines the complex and often overlapping nature of autoimmune conditions, particularly the occurrence of vasculitis in patients with psoriatic arthritis, which is rare. It stresses the importance of considering vasculitis in patients with psoriatic arthritis who present with unexplained skin lesions and neurological symptoms. This case adds to the spectrum of psoriatic disease manifestations and suggests a need for further research to explore the underlying mechanisms and improve management strategies.
Controlled-source electromagnetic noise attenuation via a deep convolutional neural network and high-quality sounding curve screening mechanism
Authors: Liu Yecheng , Li Diquan , Li Jin , Zhang Xian
Published: September 2024

Strong noise is one of the biggest challenges in controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) exploration, which severely affects the quality of the recorded signal. We develop a novel and effective CSEM noise attenuation method that integrates a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) with a high-quality sounding curve screening mechanism. This method first uses a DCNN to learn the large-scale noise characteristics of CSEM measured data and build a DCNN denoising model for attenuating the noise. Because some impulse noise remains after DCNN denoising, the high-quality sounding curve screening mechanism is innovatively applied to optimize the DCNN denoised data. The core of this method is the smoothness value (SV), which quantitatively evaluates the smoothness of the sounding curve (apparent resistivity curve). In effect, the mechanism segments the overall DCNN denoised data and calculates the corresponding sounding curve and its SV for each segment. The highest-quality sounding curve can be screened out by comparing the SVs of all curves as well as obtaining the highest-quality data segment present in the overall DCNN denoised data. Finally, our method is validated with synthetic and field data, demonstrating its feasibility and effectiveness in attenuating large-scale CSEM noise. The quality of CSEM data, which is heavily affected by noise, is significantly improved after processing by our method.
Topiramate Added to Metformin for Obesity Control in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Marchesan Lucas Bandeira , da Silva Thais Rasia , Spritzer Poli Mara
Published: September 2024

Context

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is often linked with obesity, and weight management can improve endocrine and cardiometabolic features.

Objective

This work aimed to evaluate the effects of adding topiramate (TPM) to metformin (MTF) on weight control and hormonal and metabolic outcomes in women with PCOS.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, participants with PCOS and body mass index of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater associated with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia followed a 20 kcal/kg diet in addition to 850 mg of MTF or a previous MTF regimen. They were randomly assigned to receive either TPM or placebo (P) alongside MTF. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, modified Ferriman-Gallwey score (mFGS), and adverse events were assessed every 4 weeks for 6 months. The primary end point was the percentage change in body weight from baseline in both groups. Secondary end points included changes in clinical, cardiometabolic, and hormonal parameters and psychosocial features.

Results

Thirty-one participants were in the MTF + P group and 30 in the MTF + TPM group. The MTF + TPM group showed greater mean weight loss at 3 months (−3.4% vs −1.6%; P = .03) and 6 months (−4.5% vs −1.4%; P = .03). Both groups had improved androgens, lipids, and psychosocial scores. Participants with 3% or greater weight loss at 6 months had improved mFGS (8.4 to 6.5; P = .026). Paresthesia was more common in the MTF + TPM group (23.3% vs 3.2%; P = .026).

Conclusion

Combining TPM with MTF and a low-calorie diet may be an effective, low-cost, easy-to-use, and safe strategy for weight management in women with PCOS, with mild adverse effects.
A novel comparison of southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) fur buoyancy across ontogeny
Authors: Riordan Kate , Dean Annika E. , Kerr Sarah J. , Thometz Nicole M. , Batac Francesca I. , Liwanag Heather E. M.
Published: September 2024

Sea otters are extremely positively buoyant and spend most of their time resting at the water surface. It is understood that some of this buoyancy comes from the air layer that sea otters maintain in their pelage, with the lungs providing an additional source of positive buoyancy. Past studies have investigated the fur buoyant force in adult sea otters; however, little is known about the fur buoyant force in younger age classes. This study compared ontogenetic changes in the fur buoyant force of southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) pelage. We measured the fur buoyant force of pelt samples, scaled that to the whole animal, and calculated mass-specific fur buoyant force for six age classes: neonates (<1 month), small pups (1–2 months), large pups (3–5 months), juveniles (6 months–1 year), subadults (1–3 years) and adults (4–9 years). Each pelt sample was measured under three conditions: control, oiled and washed with Dawn® dish soap. Oiled and washed pelts had a lower fur buoyant force compared with the control pelts across all age classes. When oiled, the air layer of the pelt is ruined and no longer provides sufficient positive buoyancy. Pelts washed with Dawn® had higher variability in buoyant force compared with other conditions, and the air layer was not restored consistently. When we scaled up, we found that younger age classes were more buoyant because of their larger surface area to volume ratio. These differences in buoyancy may underlie variations in energetic costs and behavior among sea otters across development.
Understanding hospital antimicrobial prescribing decisions and determinants of uptake of new local antimicrobial prescribing guidelines in Laos
Authors: Chansamouth Vilada , Douangnouvong Anousone , Thammavongsa Peeyanout , Sombandith Xaysana , Keomany Sommay , Rattana Sommana , Newton Paul N , Day Nicholas PJ , Turner Paul , Mayxay Mayfong , van Doorn H. Rogier , Ashley Elizabeth A
Published: September 2024

Background Antimicrobial use in Laos is among the highest in Southeast Asia. The first Lao comprehensive antimicrobial prescribing guidelines have been available since 2021. This study explored the determinants of antibiotic prescribing decisions and how the new prescribing guidelines were being used. Methods In August 2022, in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 Lao prescribers from two hospitals. Participants were questioned about their prescribing behaviours, attitudes to guidelines, how they learned about the guidelines and factors influencing their uptake. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. Thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. Results Lao prescribers considered multiple factors before deciding to prescribe antibiotics to their patients. The most common factor was based on the clinical judgement of the prescribers. Lack of certain antibiotics and turnaround times of laboratory results were the main challenges to prescribing antibiotics appropriately. The majority of participants were satisfied with the guidelines, regarding them as comprehensive, simple and convenient. However, most participants admitted that they did not access the guidelines very often. The main reason was that they could remember the treatment recommendations because they treat similar diseases on a daily basis. Improving antibiotic knowledge was the most common recommendation in order to improve the appropriate use of antibiotics. Raising awareness of the guidelines and promoting their use should also be considered. In addition, heads of the wards, and policy and implementation leaders, should support, monitor and feedback their use to encourage all prescribers to follow the guidelines. Conclusions Several factors contribute to enhancing appropriate antibiotic prescription. Key factors for improving antibiotic prescription include enhancing prescribers' clinical knowledge, ensuring access to essential antibiotics, and updating guidelines regularly. Health leaders must get involved to promote their use.
A summary of pain and pain-related variables in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children
Authors: Ly Amanda , Fisher Emma , P. Dunham James , Attermo Dufva Josefin , Northstone Kate , Jordan Abbie , E. Pickering Anthony , Gooberman-Hill Rachael , Keogh Edmund , M. Pearson Rebecca , Sallis Hannah
Published: September 2024

Background To study pain, data on pain characteristics, possible triggers and consequences - such as the impact of pain on people’s lives - need to be available. When not collated, described and/or organised in a systematic manner, it can be difficult to assess how useful an existing dataset may be for one’s project. This data note describes and categorises the complex and multi-modal indices of pain available in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Methods Data from two generations of the ALSPAC cohort; index child participants (Generation 1, G1), their mothers and fathers/mothers’ partners (Generation 0, G0) were used. Search terms such as ‘pain’, ‘ache’, ‘hurt’, ‘sore’, specific pain conditions, labour pain and methods of pain relief were used to identify pain and pain-related variables. These data were extracted from all waves of data collection. We developed pain categories and subsequently categorised variables in an iterative process. Repeated measurements of the same variables over waves of data collection were also identified. Results We identified 21 categories of pain variables, which were subsequently grouped into themes: pain characteristics, extended pain characteristics and causes, treatment for pain, pain interference and pain-related to specific events. Pain and pain-related data have been collected from G1 participants, G0 mothers, and G0 partners, although there are fewer data for the partners. There were some repeated measurements, most commonly, of pain location. As is typical with longitudinal birth cohort studies, maternal proxy-reports were used during participants’ younger years and self-reports were utilised from adolescence onwards. Conclusions Researchers interested in studying pain can feasibly do so in two generations of a regional UK population who have been followed up over 30 years. ALSPAC can be used to study pain from the early years through to young adulthood and in mothers from the perinatal period onwards.
A Theory-Based Explainable Deep Learning Architecture for Music Emotion
Authors: Fong Hortense , Kumar Vineet , Sudhir K.
Published: September 2024

This paper develops a theory-based, explainable deep learning convolutional neural network classifier to predict the time-varying emotional response to music.
Optimal Salesforce Compensation with General Demand and Operational Considerations
Authors: Song Haotian , Lai Guoming , Xiao Wenqiang
Published: September 2024

Problem definition: We investigate the optimal salesforce compensation scheme in the context of private information and unobservable actions, considering common operational factors encountered in practice, including inventory costs, contractible versus censored demand information, and controlled versus delegated ordering. Methodology/results: Based on an agency model with general demand and cost functions, we derive optimality conditions for implementable contracts that can achieve the second-best outcome in all scenarios. The contracts are in the forms of a menu with linear compensation for demand or sales, incorporating inventory costs. Moreover, the contracts feature adjustments in compensation corresponding to the ordering level if it is delegated. Managerial implications: Our study reveals that, under reasonably mild conditions, optimal salesforce contracts can still maintain relatively simple forms, even when confronted with common operational factors and generalized demand and cost functions. However, the contracts must be tailored to suit the operational settings. Intriguingly, neither the loss of demand information nor the delegation of inventory decisions would compromise system efficiency at optimum.

Funding: H. Song is partially supported by the Key International Cooperation and Exchange Projects of the NSFC [Grant W2411062] and the Foundation for Innovative Research Groups of the NSFC [Grant 71821002].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2022.0400 .
A Study on the Factors Affecting the Stress for Adolescents
Authors: Wie Hwee
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This Study was to find out the factors affecting the stress for adolescents, and thus provide basic materials for developing a stress management program which can prevent maladjustment behavior. Methods: The subject of this descriptive survey on causal relations were 1788 subject enrolled in middle and high schools selected on a convenience sampling basis. The data collected from June-July, 2003. The collected materials were analyzed using an SPSS 11.0 Program. In order to verify this study, frequency, percentage, T-Test, ANOVA, Correlation, and Multiple regression were used. Results: 1) Individual factors such as gender, personality, 2) family factors such as father's misbehavior, Insincerebrowbeatdevaluate typical communication, 3) social environmental factor such as school satisfaction were identified as significant variables forecasting stress. Conclusion: The theoretical model built on the basis of the major findings of this study will help promote a wholesome youth health related to stress. It is recommended that a program be developed that can help control the variables identified in this study along with a follow-up study to verify the model.
Effect of Guided Imagery Program on Chemotherapy Patients
Authors: Kim Kyoung Hee , Park Chai Soon , Yu Sook Ja
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was designed to examine the effects of guided imagery program on the anxiety, depression, hope and quality of life of chemotherapy patients. Methods: Guided imagery program consisted included guided imagery by Choi (1996) and autonomic relaxation by Schultz (1996). This treatment has been performed 14 session for five weeks. The 38 subjects were assigned to experimental and control groups each with 19 chemotherapy patients who were admitted to C University Hospital in Seoul, Korea during the period of May 2004 to January 2005. Data were analyzed with the SAS program. The paired t-test verified the general characteristics of the subjects, the comparison of variables in groups, and the comparison between groups.Pearson's correlation coefficient quantified the correlation between variables. Results: The experimental groups showed that significant statistical differences compared with the control groups in the score of depression and hope. Conclusion: These results imply that guided imagery program could be utilized as good nursing intervention to decrease depression and enhance hope of chemotherapy patients at the general hospital.
Depression and Depression Relating Variables for Caregivers of Patients with Dementia in Home
Authors: Lee So Young , Park Ho Ran , Choi So Eun , Lee Soo Jin
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to understand the depression for primary caregivers of patients with dementia in home and to analyze the factors that affect depression. Methods: Subjects were 54 caregivers of patients with dementia in home were enrolled in 4 community health care centers in Seoul and answered self answering questionnaire during the time period of August 1th to September 30, 2003. The tools used were the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale(CES-D) developed by Radloff(1977). Cronbach's a of tool was 0.92. Data was analyzed using SAS 8.1 by applying ttest, ANOVA, and stepwise multiple regression. Results: 1. Depression score was 22.7±10.3 which was higher than 16.0, named clinically depressive. 2. The level of depression was different significantly by age, job, and healthy state(p=0.01, p=0.00, p=0.02). 3. Depression was positively correlated with burden and negatively correlated with life satisfaction. 4. Major factors that affect to depression of caregivers was burden, which had an explanation of 34.4%. Conclusions: Therefore, depression of caregivers of patients with dementia links to personal, familial and patient, so it should be generally screened and other various factors should be looked into. Additionally, public education of dementia and nation wide systemic approach to reduce depression is indispensible.