bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of intravenous bevacizumab on severe bleeding associated with hemorrhagic hereditary telangiectasia: A national, randomized multicenter trial
Authors: Dupuis‐Girod Sophie , Rivière Sophie , Lavigne Christian , Fargeton Anne‐Emmanuelle , Gilbert‐Dussardier Brigitte , Grobost Vincent , Leguy‐Seguin Vanessa , Maillard Hélène , Mohamed Shirine , Decullier Evelyne , Roux Adeline , Bernard Lorraine , Saurin Jean‐Christophe , Saroul Nicolas , Faure Frédéric , Cartier Cesar , Altwegg Romain , Laccourreye Laurent , Oberti Frédéric , Beaudoin Marjolaine , Dhelens Carole , Desvignes Céline , Azzopardi Nicolas , Paintaud Gilles , Hermann Ruben , Chinet Thierry
Published: August 2023

Background

Bevacizumab—a humanized monoclonal antibody—has been widely used to treat patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), but no randomized trial has yet been conducted.

Methods

This study is a double‐blind multicenter randomized phase 2 trial with a 1:1 active‐treatment‐to‐placebo ratio. We included patients over the age of 18 with a confirmed diagnosis and the need for at least four red blood cell (RBC) units transfused in the 3 months before study enrollment. Bevacizumab was administered at a dose of 5 mg/kg every 14 days with a total of six injections. The primary efficacy criterion was a decrease of at least 50% in the cumulative number of RBC units transfused in a 3‐month period before and after treatment.

Results

A total of 24 patients (12 in each group) were included and randomized at 4 different centers. In intention‐to‐treat analysis, 63.6% of patients (7/11) in the bevacizumab group versus 33.3% of patients (4/12) in the placebo group decreased the number of blood transfusions by at least 50% (p = 0.22). Hemoglobin levels significantly improved at 6 months in the bevacizumab versus placebo group (p = 0.02). The pharmacokinetics study revealed that patients with high exposure to bevacizumab had a significant decrease in RBC transfusions (p = 0.03). Fifty‐nine adverse events were observed, 34 in the placebo arm versus 25 in the bevacizumab arm.

Conclusion

Though the present trial was underpowered, patients with HHT receiving bevacizumab required numerically fewer red blood cell transfusions than those receiving placebo, particularly those with high exposure.
The relationship between periodic limb movement during sleep and dyslipidaemia in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Bikov Andras , Bailly Sebastien , Testelmans Dries , Fanfulla Francesco , Pataka Athanasia , Bouloukaki Izolde , Hein Holger , Dogas Zoran , Basoglu Ozen K. , Staats Richard , Parati Gianfranco , Lombardi Carolina , Grote Ludger , Mihaicuta Stefan ,   the ESADA study group
Published: August 2023

Periodic limb movements during sleep and obstructive sleep apnea are both associated with increased sympathetic tone, and have been proposed as risk factors for heart diseases and, in particular, cardiovascular disease. As sympathetic system activation may lead to dyslipidaemia, periodic limb movements during sleep could be an additional risk factor for cardiovascular disease in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The aim of the study was to determine whether the presence of periodic limb movements during sleep affects serum lipid levels in obstructive sleep apnea. Total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, non‐ high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels were investigated in 4138 patients with obstructive sleep apnea in the European Sleep Apnea Database (ESADA) cohort, divided into those with periodic limb movements during sleep index ≥ 15 per hr (n = 628) and controls (n = 3510). ANCOVA adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, apnea–hypopnea index, alcohol intake, smoking status, diabetes, insomnia and study site was used to assess differences in lipids between periodic limb movements during sleep and controls. Patients with periodic limb movements during sleep (24% female, 54.4 ± 12.1 years, body mass index 31.9 ± 5.8 kg m−2, apnea–hypopnea index 36.7 ± 25.4 per hr) had higher triglyceride (1.81 ± 1.04 versus 1.69 ± 0.90 mmol L−1, p = 0.002) and lower high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.19 ± 0.34 versus 1.24 ± 0.37 mmol L−1, p = 0.002) levels, whilst there was no difference in either total cholesterol (4.98 ± 1.10 versus 4.94 ± 1.07 mmol L−1), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.04 ± 0.96 versus 2.98 ± 0.98 mmol L−1) or non‐ high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.78 ± 1.10 versus 3.70 ± 1.05 mmol L−1) concentrations (all p > 0.05). The results remained unchanged after most sensitivity analyses. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea with periodic limb movements during sleep had more prevalent cardiovascular disease (11% versus 6%, p < 0.01). Periodic limb movements during sleep in obstructive sleep apnea is associated with dyslipidaemia independently of important confounders. Our results highlight periodic limb movements during sleep as an additional risk factor for cardiovascular disease in obstructive sleep apnea.
Echocardiographic characteristics of dogs with pulmonary hypertension secondary to respiratory diseases
Authors: Yuchi Yunosuke , Suzuki Ryohei , Saito Takahiro , Yasumura Yuyo , Teshima Takahiro , Matsumoto Hirotaka , Koyama Hidekazu
Published: August 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to respiratory disease is caused by pulmonary vascular remodeling and hypoxia. Severe PH can induce various clinical signs, including syncope and right‐sided heart failure.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the echocardiographic characteristics in dogs with PH secondary to respiratory diseases.

Animals

Thirty‐one dogs with respiratory diseases with or without PH and 15 healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional study. Dogs were classified according to respiratory disease (obstructive airway/lung disease [OALD] or restrictive lung disease [RLD]) and PH‐relevant signs. The association between echocardiographic variables and PH (classified by respiratory disease and PH‐relevant signs) was investigated.

Results

Twenty‐one dogs were diagnosed with PH; of these, 11 showed PH‐related signs (OALD, n = 2; RLD, n = 9), 14 had right ventricular hypertrophy, and 19 had pulmonary arterial enlargement. Right ventricular dysfunction and dilatation were observed only in dogs with PH‐related signs (n = 10). Left and right ventricular stroke volumes were significantly lower in dogs with PH (median [interquartile range]: 17.2 [12.4‐20.8] and 16.8 [15.3‐29.5] mL/m2, respectively). Dogs with RLD had higher echocardiography‐estimated pulmonary vascular resistance than those with OALD (median [interquartile range]: 3.1 [1.9‐3.3] and 1.6 [1.3‐2.2], respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Pulmonary arterial enlargement was the most common echocardiographic finding in dogs with PH secondary to respiratory diseases. Right ventricular dysfunction, dilatation, and decreased left and right ventricular stroke volume were significantly associated with the PH‐related signs, indicating that comprehensive echocardiography is recommended in dogs with respiratory disease. Restricted lung disease might induce more severe PH than OALD.
Availability of national policies, programmes, and survey‐based coverage data to track nutrition interventions in South Asia
Authors: Neupane Sumanta , Jangid Manita , Scott Samuel P. , Kim Sunny S. , Murira Zivai , Heidkamp Rebecca , Carducci Bianca , Menon Purnima
Published: August 2023

Progress to improve nutrition among women, infants and children in South Asia has fallen behind the pace needed to meet established global targets. Renewed political commitment and monitoring of nutrition interventions are required to improve coverage and quality of care. Our study aimed to assess the availability of national nutrition policies, programmes, and coverage data of nutrition interventions for women, children, and adolescents in eight countries in South Asia. We reviewed relevant policy and programme documents, examined questionnaires used in the most recent rounds of 20 nationally representative surveys, and generated an evidence gap map on the availability of policies, programmes, and survey data to track progress on coverage of globally recommended nutrition interventions. Current policies and programmes in South Asian countries addressed almost all the recommended nutrition interventions targeted at women, children, and adolescents. There was a strong policy focus in all countries, except Maldives, on health system platforms such as antenatal and postnatal care and child growth and development. Survey data on nutrition intervention coverage was most available in India and Nepal, while Bangladesh and Bhutan had the least. Though countries in South Asia have committed to national nutrition policies and strategies, national surveys had substantial data gaps, precluding progress tracking of nutrition intervention coverage. Greater attention and effort are needed for multisectoral collaboration to promote and strengthen nutrition data systems.
Applying self‐determination theory to stem medical schools' clinical teacher sustainability crisis
Authors: Hirsh David A. , Crampton Paul E. S. , Osman Nora Y.
Published: August 2023

The problem

Medical schools require highly skilled and committed clinical faculty to teach, assess, supervise and mentor students' clinical care. Medical education is facing a crisis in recruiting and sustaining these clinical teachers. Faced with multiple demands and responsibilities in fast‐paced clinical environments, teachers may not have the time, resources or stamina to sustain these critical roles. Medical school leaders must commit to and provide structures and processes to attract, sustain and retain clinical teachers.

Conceptual framework

The authors use the lens of self‐determination theory to frame approaches to support teacher sustainability. Self‐determination theory describes sources of human motivation. The theory and its evidence base characterise three human psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. This theory can bridge individual psychological and institutional leadership perspectives to help medical school leaders anticipate and respond to their clinical teachers' needs. The authors propose three practical steps: practices to advance employee‐centredness, processes to align individual and institutional values, and restructuring education to support clinical teachers' needs alongside student and patient needs. The authors describe limitations to this relational approach that focuses on leadership actions and consider individual agency as another key factor for sustainability.

Discussion

Medical school leaders can develop and apply theory‐driven approaches to advance sustainability. Sustainability now and in the future requires careful attention to the needs of clinical teachers and to their relationships with and within medical schools.
Polysemy does not exist, at least not in the relevant sense
Authors: Brody Gabor , Feiman Roman
Published: August 2023

Based on the existence of polysemy (e.g., lunch can refer to both food and events), it is argued that central tenets of externalist semantics and Fodorian concept atomism, an externalist theory on which words lack semantic structure, are unsound. We evaluate the premise that these arguments rely on—that polysemous words have separate, finer‐grained senses. We survey the evidence across psychology and linguistics and argue that it shows that polysemy does not exist, at least not in this “sense”. The upshot is that if polysemy does not exist, it cannot pose a problem for atomism or externalism.
The social consequences of talking to oneself: The dialectical continuum of social and private speech
Authors: Carr Nicholas
Published: August 2023

The intrapersonal functions of private speech have been researched extensively. However, studies in interactive settings that focus on the interpersonal functions of private speech have been rare. Adopting a case‐study approach, I investigated the social consequences of private speech and how it contributes to the establishment of intersubjectivity during collaborative tasks. Data were collected through video recordings of participants collaboratively processing feedback on jointly produced texts, retrospective interviews that included stimulated recall, and collaborative writing tasks. Findings show instances of private speech acting as a tool that helps establish intersubjectivity, thus promoting joint problem solving and potentially affording interlocutors more opportunities to co‐construct knowledge. These opportunities for learning were made possible when interlocutors used the private speech of a peer as a resource to build upon when deliberating on a response to feedback. This indicates that the ability to understand the intra‐ and interpersonal functions of an interlocutors’ private speech is an important aspect of interactional competence in an additional language.
Parental agency in pediatric palliative care
Authors: Szabat Marta
Published: August 2023

The study discusses a new approach to parental agency in pediatric palliative care based on an active form of caregiving. It also explores the possibility of a positive conceptualization of parental agency in its relational context. The paper begins with an illustrative case study based on a clinical situation. This is followed by an analysis of various aspects of parental agency based on empirical studies that disclose the insufficiencies of the traditional approach to parental agency. In the next step, parental agency is analyzed from a reality‐based perspective as an activity focused on relationships and the cognitive capacity of parents vis‐a‐vis their seriously ill children. The paper also considers the importance of the cultural and social contexts in which parental agency and decision‐making take place. This agency is addressed not as individualistic in form, and nor is it exercised in terms of fixed choices. Rather, the focus is on its dynamic and future‐oriented aspects. Consequently, parental agency should be comprehended not only as a form of proxy agency representing the child's best interests but also as a complex decision‐making process in which the parents learn from their child how to become good, compassionate caregivers and at the same time good parents.
Synergistic effects between global warming and water quality change on modelled macrophyte species richness
Authors: Lewerentz Anne , Hoffmann Markus , Hovestadt Thomas , Raeder Uta , Sarmento Cabral Juliano
Published: August 2023

Submerged freshwater macrophytes are crucial for the functioning of lakes. Their growth and survival follow environmental conditions like light, temperature, and nutrient availability. Hence, the impending increase in water temperature as well as changes of nutrients and turbidity will lead to changes in macrophyte geographic and depth distribution: Herein, we assess these potential changes. We apply an eco‐physiological macrophyte growth model to simulate biomass growth and survival of virtual species defined by random trait combinations within expert‐derived trait ranges for oligotraphentic, mesotraphentic, and eutraphentic species groups in deep lakes in Bavaria, Germany, which cover clear, moderate, and turbid lake conditions. The emergent potential species richness is compared with empirically observed species richness to evaluate general predictions for current conditions. Thereafter, we apply the model to scenarios of temperature increase and of turbidity and nutrient change to assess potential changes in species richness and the influence of species' traits on being an environmental change ‘winner' or ‘loser'. We find a cross‐lake, hump‐shaped pattern of potential species richness along depth. This largely reflects observed patterns, although mismatches were also detected and might be explained by missing processes and environmental heterogeneity within the lake. Rising temperature leads to increased richness of potential species in all lake types, species groups, and depths. Turbidity and nutrient change effects depend on depth and lake type. ‘Loser species' under increased turbidity and nutrient level are light consumptive and sensible to disturbances, while ‘winner species' have a high biomass production. These findings show that the hump‐shaped depth distributions of submerged macrophyte diversity can emerge solely considering eco‐physiology. The differential responses to environmental changes imply that management measures must account for lake type because those responses can have opposite trends depending on lake depth and type.
Older family caregivers' diet‐related disparities: Cross‐sectional evidence from Finland
Authors: Savela Roosa‐Maria , Nykänen Irma , Koponen Sohvi , Suominen Anna Liisa , Schwab Ursula , Välimäki Tarja
Published: August 2023

Background

Some older family caregivers experience financial vulnerabilities due to their caregiving role, which may affect their ability to afford appropriate food. This study aimed to assess the extent to which there are diet‐related disparities among older family caregivers in Eastern Finland.

Methods

This study is based on the multidisciplinary LifEstyle, NutriTion and Oral health in caregivers (LENTO) study. In total, 125 family caregivers were included. Data were collected between June and December 2019. Participants were assessed on health, nutritional status and sociodemographic factors. The associations and predictors of diet‐related disparities were assessed using the independent samples t‐test, ANOVA‐test, χ2‐tests and binary logistic regression.

Results

The mean age of family caregivers was 74 years (SD = 8). Most were female (72%), 20% had malnutrition risk and 30% reported having ‘moderately enough money’ or less, which was identified as ‘subjective poverty’. Family caregivers experiencing subjective poverty were less likely to consume two or more portions of fruit and vegetables daily and were more likely overweight. Study participants' diet‐related disparities were further associated with several health inequalities, including comorbidity, depression, diabetes (Type I or II) and osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Older family caregivers have diet‐related disparities, further associated with health inequalities. Family caregivers' diet‐related disparities require increasing attention in healthcare. Addressing family caregivers' food insecurity risk would enhance their health equity. Lack of assessment of diet‐related disparities will only deepen health inequalities.
Grain yield improvement by genome editing of TaARF12 that decoupled peduncle and rachis development trajectories via differential regulation of gibberellin signalling in wheat
Authors: Kong Xingchen , Wang Fang , Wang Zhenyu , Gao Xiuhua , Geng Shuaifeng , Deng Zhongyin , Zhang Shuang , Fu Mingxue , Cui Dada , Liu Shaoshuai , Che Yuqing , Liao Ruyi , Yin Lingjie , Zhou Peng , Wang Ke , Ye Xingguo , Liu Dengcai , Fu Xiangdong , Mao Long , Li Aili
Published: August 2023

Plant breeding is constrained by trade‐offs among different agronomic traits by the pleiotropic nature of many genes. Genes that contribute to two or more favourable traits with no penalty on yield are rarely reported, especially in wheat. Here, we describe the editing of a wheat auxin response factor TaARF12 by using CRISPR/Cas9 that rendered shorter plant height with larger spikes. Changes in plant architecture enhanced grain number per spike up to 14.7% with significantly higher thousand‐grain weight and up to 11.1% of yield increase under field trials. Weighted Gene Co‐Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) of spatial–temporal transcriptome profiles revealed two hub genes: RhtL1, a DELLA domain‐free Rht‐1 paralog, which was up‐regulated in peduncle, and TaNGR5, an organ size regulator that was up‐regulated in rachis, in taarf12 plants. The up‐regulation of RhtL1 in peduncle suggested the repression of GA signalling, whereas up‐regulation of TaNGR5 in spike may promote GA response, a working model supported by differential expression patterns of GA biogenesis genes in the two tissues. Thus, TaARF12 complemented plant height reduction with larger spikes that gave higher grain yield. Manipulation of TaARF12 may represent a new strategy in trait pyramiding for yield improvement in wheat.
Affordable, accurate and unbiased RNA sequencing by manual library miniaturization: A case study in barley
Authors: Arlt Christopher , Wachtmeister Thorsten , Köhrer Karl , Stich Benjamin
Published: August 2023

We present an easy‐to‐reproduce manual miniaturized full‐length RNA sequencing (RNAseq) library preparation workflow that does not require the upfront investment in expensive lab equipment or long setup times. With minimal adjustments to an established commercial protocol, we were able to manually miniaturize the RNAseq library preparation by a factor of up to 1:8. This led to cost savings for miniaturized library preparation of up to 86.1% compared to the gold standard. The resulting data were the basis of a rigorous quality control analysis that inspected: sequencing quality metrics, gene body coverage, raw read duplications, alignment statistics, read pair duplications, detected transcripts and sequence variants. We also included a deep dive data analysis identifying rRNA contamination and suggested ways to circumvent these. In the end, we could not find any indication of biases or inaccuracies caused by the RNAseq library miniaturization. The variance in detected transcripts was minimal and not influenced by the miniaturization level. Our results suggest that the workflow is highly reproducible and the sequence data suitable for downstream analyses such as differential gene expression analysis or variant calling.
Activated Akt expression is associated with the recurrence of primary melanomas and further refines the prognostic and predictive values for relapse in acral melanomas
Authors: Nojima Kohei , Hayashi Masahiro , Tanemura Atsushi , Al‐Busani Hind , Saito Toru , Suzuki Tamio , Ishikawa Masashi , Mori Taisuke , Wada Shogo , Yamazaki Naoya , Katayama Ichiro , Mori Hiroki , Yokozeki Hiroo , Okiyama Naoko , Sasaki Yoshiyuki , Namiki Takeshi
Published: August 2023

A PTEN deficiency leads to the activation of phospho‐Akt at serine 473 (p‐Akt) and promotes the tumorigenesis of melanomas by coupling with NUAK2 amplification. We tested the prognostic impact of p‐Akt and/or NUAK2 expression on the relapse‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) of melanoma patients. Primary tumors from patients with acral melanomas (112), Low‐cumulative sun damage (CSD) melanomas (38), and High‐CSD melanomas (18) were examined using immunohistochemistry and their prognostic significance was analyzed statistically. The expression of p‐Akt was found in 32.1%, 68.4%, and 55.6% of acral, Low‐CSD, and High‐CSD melanomas, while NUAK2 expression was found in 46.4%, 76.3%, and 50.0%, respectively. Either p‐Akt or NUAK2 expression was inversely correlated with the RFS of primary melanoma patients and acral melanoma patients (p‐Akt: p < .0001, p < .0001; NUAK2; p = .0005, p < .0001, respectively). Strikingly, multivariate analyses revealed that p‐Akt had a significant impact on RFS (Hazard ratio = 4.454; p < .0001), while NUAK2 did not. Further subset analyses revealed that p‐Akt expression had an inferior RFS of patients with acral melanomas (Hazard ratio = 4.036; p = .0005). We conclude that the expression of p‐Akt has a significant impact on RFS of patients with primary melanomas and can predict the relapse of patients with acral melanomas.
Contemporary outcomes of pediatric cardiac transplantation with a positive retrospective crossmatch
Authors: Lytrivi Irene D. , Koehl Devin , Esteso Paul , Frandsen Erik L. , Gibbons Meredith K. , Kirklin James K. , Cantor Ryan , Lamour Jacqueline M. , Putschoegl Adam , Shugh Svetlana , Williams Ryan J. , Pearce F. Bennett
Published: August 2023

Background

A positive crossmatch (+ XM) has traditionally been associated with adverse outcomes following pediatric heart transplantation. However, more recent studies suggest that favorable intermediate‐term outcomes may be achieved despite a + XM. This study's hypothesis is that children with a + XM have similar long‐term survival, but higher rate of complications such as rejection, coronary allograft vasculopathy (CAV), and infection, compared to patients with a negative (−) XM.

Methods

The Pediatric Heart Transplant Society Registry (PHTS) database was queried from 2010–2021 for all patients <18 years of age with a known XM. Baseline demographics were compared between + XM and − XM groups using appropriate parametric and non‐parametric group comparisons. Cox Proportional Hazards Modeling was used to identify risk factors for post‐transplant graft loss, rejection, and CAV.

Results

Of 4599 pediatric heart transplants during the study period, XM results were available for 3914 (85%), of which 373 (9.5%) had a + XM. Univariate analysis showed lower 10‐year survival for patients with + XM (HR = 1.3, p = .04). Multivariate analyses revealed no significant difference in 10‐year survival in the 2 groups; however, time to first rejection (p = .0001) remained significantly shorter in the + XM group.

Conclusions

Pediatric patients transplanted across a + XM experience earlier rejection; however, after multivariate adjustment, + XM is not independently associated with intermediate‐term graft loss. The risk of heart transplantation against a + XM must be balanced with the ongoing risk of waitlist mortality.
Critical consciousness of public health nurses: A descriptive, comparative survey
Authors: Pirsch Anna M. , Austin Robin R. , Martin Lisa , Pieczkiewicz David , Monsen Karen A.
Published: August 2023

Background

Public Health Nurses (PHN) caring for vulnerable populations amid systemic inequality must navigate complex situations, and consequently they may experience serious moral distress known to be detrimental to PHN wellbeing.

Objective

Given PHN awareness of social inequities, the study aimed to determine if PHNs were motivated to enact social change and engage in social and political action to address inequality.

Design and sample

A survey of 173 PHNs was conducted in fall 2022. The convenience sample was mainly female (96.5%), White (85%), had associate/bachelor's degrees (71.7%), and worked in governmental public health settings (70.7%).

Measure

The study employed the Short Critical Consciousness Scales’ subscales: Critical Reflection, Critical Motivation, and Critical Action.

Results

PHNs were highly motivated to address inequities (Critical Motivation = 20.83; SD = 3.16), with similarly high awareness (Critical Reflection = 17.89; SD = 5.18). However, social and political action scores were much lower (Critical Action = 7.13; SD = 2.63). A subgroup of PHNs with strong agreement regarding the impact of poverty were more likely to be younger (p = .039) and work in a community setting (p = .003); with higher scores across subscales (p < .001).

Conclusions

High critical reflection and motivation among PHNs aligned with literature. Lower Critical Action scores warrant investigation into validity for PHNs, and possible role constraints.
The risk of weekend biopsy: Impact of specimen source and fixation status on HER2 assessment in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer (The HER_WEEKEND study)
Authors: Nakamura Michio , Watanabe Ayako , Yoshizawa Aki , Iwasaki Sari , Nomura Asako , Matsumura Mariko , Murai Taichi , Itaya Kazufumi , Koike Yuta , Izumi Takaaki , Endo Ayana , Kato Shin , Ono Yuji , Ohshima Takahiro , Okazaki Nanase , Nakagawa Shimpei , Ishii Yasushi , Fukasawa Yuichiro , Yokota Isao , Tsuji Takahiro , Nishikawa Shuji
Published: August 2023

Accurate evaluation of human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2) expression is crucial for determining chemotherapy regimens in gastric cancer. However, formalin fixation status has been identified as an important factor affecting HER2 assessment reliability. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the correlation between sample collection day (weekday vs. weekend) and source (biopsy vs. surgical specimens) in assessing HER2 expression in patients with unresectable advanced/recurrent gastric cancer. Data were collected from gastric cancer patients who received chemotherapy at a single public hospital in Japan from 2008 to 2021. The analysis included 177 patients (109 men, 68 women) with a median age of 68.0 (21–88) years, and the primary outcome was the HER2 positivity rate. The overall HER2 positivity rate was 18.1%, with higher rates on weekdays (20.0%) compared to weekends (12.8%). Biopsies had higher positivity rates on weekdays (23.9%) but lower rates on weekends (11.1%) than surgical specimens. Significant differences were observed in formalin fixation times between weekdays and weekends for both biopsies and surgical samples. The study findings suggest that longer formalin fixation times on weekends may lead to underestimating HER2 expression, particularly in biopsies. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious of excessive formalin fixation when collecting samples, especially during weekend biopsies.
Exploring Multiple Measures of Pregnancy Preferences and Their Relationship with Postpartum Contraceptive Uptake Using Longitudinal Data from PMA Ethiopia
Authors: Zimmerman Linnea A. , Karp Celia , Magalona Sophia , Shiferaw Solomon , Seme Assefa , Ahmed Saifuddin
Published: August 2023

There are significant gaps in our understanding of how the experience of an unintended pregnancy affects subsequent contraceptive behavior. Our objective was to explore how three measures of pregnancy preferences—measuring timing‐based intentions, emotional orientation, and planning status—were related to the uptake of postpartum family planning within one year after birth. Additionally, we tested whether the relationship between each measure and postpartum family planning uptake differs by parity, a key determinant of fertility preference. Adjusted hazards regression results show that the timing‐based measure, specifically having a mistimed pregnancy, and the emotional response measure, specifically being unhappy, were associated with contraceptive uptake in the extended postpartum period, while those related to pregnancy planning, as measured by an adapted London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy, were not. This effect differed by parity; high parity women were consistently the least likely to use contraception in the postpartum period, but the effect of experiencing an unwanted pregnancy or having a mixed reaction to a pregnancy was significantly stronger among high parity compared to low parity women. Greater attention to the entirety of women's responses to unanticipated pregnancies is needed to fully understand the influence of unintended pregnancy on health behaviors and outcomes for women and their children.
Decomposing gender wage gaps: a family economics perspective
Authors: Averkamp Dorothée , Bredemeier Christian , Juessen Falko
Published: August 2023

We propose a simple way to embed family‐economics arguments for pay differences between genders into standard decomposition techniques. To account appropriately for the role of the family in the determination of wages, one has to compare men and women with similar own characteristics – and with similar partners. In US survey data, we find that our extended decomposition explains considerably more of the wage gap than a standard approach, in line with our theory that highlights the role of career prioritization in dual‐earner couples.
Asymmetric market power and wage suppression
Authors: Blumkin Tomer , Lagziel David
Published: August 2023

We study a labor market in which two identical firms compete over a pool of homogeneous workers. Firms pre‐commit to their outreach to potential employees, either through their informative advertising choices, or through their screening processes, before engaging in a wage (Bertrand) competition. Although firms are homogeneous, the unique pure‐strategy equilibrium is asymmetric: one firm maximizes its outreach whereas the other compromises on a significantly smaller market share. The features of the asymmetric equilibrium extend to a general oligopsony with any finite number of firms.
Gender differences in perceiving the portion size of meat when being observed
Authors: Tian Qirui , Qin Cengceng
Published: August 2023

Previous research has shown that being observed can influence people's behaviors, including their eating habits. In this study, we predicted that men and women would exhibit different reactions to the perception of portion size of meat when being observed. By utilizing a camera to create a sense of being observed during the act of eating meat, we revealed that men in the observed condition reported perceiving the portion size of the meat they ate to be smaller and the eating amount to be less than was reported by those in the non‐observed condition. However, women did not show any differences in their perceptions of the portion size of the meat they ate. These findings demonstrate that gender identity plays a role in how people perceive the meat they eat when they are aware of being observed. The discussion highlights the effect of being observed on meat consumption and illustrates the influence of masculine identity.
Conspiracy theories explained by a cheating detection mechanism
Authors: Aubert‐Teillaud Benjamin , Vaidis David C.
Published: August 2023

Research on conspiracy theories sometimes tends to pathologise this phenomenon with a focus on the impact of (sub)pathological predictors. However, socio‐political factors also play a significant role in predicting belief in specific conspiracy theories. The aim of this article is to bridge these two perspectives through a unified cognitive mechanism. Based on an overlap between cheating and conspiracy concepts, we assume a cheating detection mechanism likely to underlie belief in conspiracy theories. Starting from the adaptive challenges of cheating detection, we explore the workings of this mechanism using signal detection theory and error management theory. The probability of cheating and decision bias according to the asymmetry of error costs in cheating detection could lead individuals to infer conspiracy theories. This functional mechanism not only explains the links between socio‐political predictors and adherence to conspiracy theories but also helps us deduce alterations that may foster a stable inclination towards believing in conspiracy theories. These alterations, in turn, offer an explanation for the links between (sub)pathological predictors and conspiracy mentality. By integrating existing literature, our proposed model sheds light on the mechanisms underlying belief in conspiracy theories and presents new predictions to guide future research.
Exploring the increasing need for plasma collection: Perspectives of voluntary nonremunerated donors on payment for plasma in Canada
Authors: Holloway Kelly
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to understand how voluntary nonremunerated plasma donors in Canada view payment for plasma and the emerging commercial sector.

Background

There is a growing global demand for plasma, to produce plasma‐derived medical products. Source plasma for these products is collected through voluntary nonremunerated donation, sometimes by a national blood service, or by a commercial plasma collector, remunerating donors.

Methods/Materials

This paper presents findings from qualitative semi‐structured interviews with source plasma donors in three new source plasma centres in Canada. Interview data were analysed using abductive analysis, an interpretivist approach that builds on grounded theory.

Results

This study indicates that there are a range of perspectives on payment for plasma and the emerging commercial sector, from disinterest in payment, to opposition to payment based on the belief that it could undermine donating to help others, and risk public health and safety. One fifth of participants are open to CBS paying donors if it is necessary to increase national sufficiency of plasma. Almost two thirds of participants are opposed to commercial plasma collection in Canada, claiming that it could undermine Canada's public healthcare system, raising questions about transparency and accountability of the commercial plasma industry.

Conclusion

Findings point to important areas for future study, on publicly collected source plasma, the emerging commercial plasma sector, and the role of the donor as a social actor in a complex political system.
DOSIMETRY ANALYSIS OF BORON NEUTRON CAPTURE THERAPY (BNCT) ON THYROID CANCER USING PHITS CODE WITH NEUTRON FROM 30 MeV CYCLOTRON
Authors: Bilalodin Bilalodin , Wihantoro Wihantoro , Haryadi Aris , Abdullatif Farzand
Published: August 2023

The dosimetry analysis of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) on thyroid cancer using the Particle and Heavy Ion Transport Code System (PHITS) has been carried out. The purpose of research was to determine the received dose rate and the irradiation time required for thyroid cancer therapy using the BNCT method. The geometry of thyroid model is based on MIRD phantom with cancer cells located in the center of the thyroid. The phantom was irradiated using a neutron source from DLBSA based 30 MeV cyclotron.  Simulations were carried out at boron concentrations of (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70) mg/g tissue. Simulation results show that the boron concentration increases with dose rate. The highest dose rate was obtained in the Gross Target Volume (GTV) of 1.590 x 10-2 Gy/s using a boron concentration of 70 mg/g tissue. The effective time for cancer therapy was calculated based on the highest dose rate obtained at 57 minutes.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF MODIFIED ANGLE OF ENTRANCE AND DUCKTAIL ADDITION OF THE 1,500 GT RO-RO FERRY HULL VALIDATED WITH SHIP MODEL RESISTANCE TEST
Authors: Mintarso Cahyadi Sugeng Jati , Semin Semin , Erwandi Erwandi , Purnamasari Dian
Published: August 2023

The main problem of ferry ships is maintaining the speed due to ship resistance. There are many efforts to reduce the resistance by modifications of them. This study aims to reduce resistance due to modification of the hull form on the bow Angle of Entrance (AoE) and ducktail addition at the transom stern. The object of the research is a 1,500 GT ro-ro ferry. The AoE minimizes wave resistance and improves flow patterns, while the ducktail reduces the negative effects of the circulation zone on the wetted transom so that waves and wake are reduced. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was used to analyze these modifications. The final results of the numerical simulation are then verified by the ship model resistance test in the towing tank. Tests were conducted in calm water conditions at a draft of 3.30 meters with a speed variation of 10 - 18 knots. The results show that with the combination of AoE and Ducktail, at ship speeds of 13 to 18 knots, the reduction in resistance from CFD ranges from 13.13% - 16.69% while the experimental results range from 16.00% - 16.54%. While separately the AoE modification is between 8.89% – 12.19% and ducktail is 3.12% -3,62%.
DESIGNING THE TECHNOLOGY FOR TURBIDITY SENSOR-BASED AUTOMATIC RIVER SEDIMENTATION MEASUREMENT
Authors: Romdania Yuda , Banuwa Irwan Sukri , Yuwono Slamet Budi , Wahono Endro Prasetyo , Triyono Sugeng
Published: August 2023

Sedimentation measurement has been quite difficult to do as it requires more time for and more activity in water management, thus affects the quality and quantity of obtained data. The purpose of this study was to create a set of devices capable of automatically measuring sediment and flow characteristics. The phases of this research were the determination and assembly of all the device components, creation of a program for converting data into numbers, sampling, and device testing. The results of the device testing, which were obtained from calibration and conversion tests, indicated that the devices had been well tested. The calibration and conversion curves showed the R value was close to 1. As for the unit conversion equation of NTU and ppm, it was y = 11.71x – 1037.2. In conclusion, with the successful creation of this automatic measuring devices, the turbidity and flow velocity-based sedimentation measurement is expected to be the solution to issues demanding efficient and practical data retrieval.
IMPROVE THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH USING A STRENGTH IMPROVER AGENT (SIA) IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY IN INDONESIA
Authors: Rahman Herliati , Mulyani Mulyani
Published: August 2023

Greenhouse gas emissions such as CO2 are released during clinker production through various processes, including the calcination reaction of limestone (CaCO3). To reduce CO2 emissions per ton of cement produced, some studies have explored the use of clinker substitutes. However, a reduction in the amount of clinker can also result in decreased compressive strength of the cement. To address this issue, the addition of a Strength Improver Agent (SIA) can be used to maintain the necessary compressive strength and ensure compliance with all relevant standards. Therefore, This study aimed to determine the optimal amount of SIA required to achieve the desired compressive strength. The study added SIA in varying amounts (100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 ppm), and the compressive strength of cement was measured at 1, 3, 7, and 28 days based on ASTM C 109 and QPT-LAB-SNI-05 standards. Physical tests were also conducted, including Blaine, 325 mesh residue, Insoluble Residue (IR), Loss on Ignition (LOI), and XRF based on ASTM C 114, ASTM-STP 985, XRF Thermo ARL 8480S. The observations and analysis showed that the optimum amount of SIA addition is 350 ppm, where the resulting compressive strength increases at least 7% compared to blanks.
SMART AGRICULTURAL MONITORING SOLUTION FOR CHILLI LEAF DISEASES USING A LOW-COST KINECT CAMERA AND AN IMPROVED CNN ALGORITHM
Authors: Ak Entuni Chyntia Jaby , Zulcaffle Tengku Mohd Afendi , Hong Ping Kismet , Sharangi Amit Baran , Upadhyay Tarun Kumar , Saeed Mohd
Published: August 2023

Chilli is extensively grown all over the globe and is particularly important as a food. One of the most difficult issues confronting chilli cultivation is the requirement for accurate identification of leaf diseases. Leaf diseases have a negative impact on chilli production quality, resulting in significant losses for farmers. Numerous Machine Learning (ML) and Convolution Neural Network (CNN) models have been developed for classifying chilli leaf diseases under uniform background and uncomplicated leaf conditions, with an average classification accuracy achieved. However, a diseased leaf usually grows alongside a cluster of other leaves, making it difficult to classify the disease. It will be easier for farmers if there is a reliable model that can classify a chilli leaf disease in a cluster of leaves. The aim of this study was to propose a model for classifying chilli leaf disease from both a uniform background and a complex cluster of leaves. Images of diseased chilli leaves are acquired using a low-cost Kinect camera, which include discoloration, grey spots, and leaf curling. The different types of chilli leaf disease are then classified using an improved ShuffleNet CNN model. With a classification accuracy of 99.82%, the proposed model outperformed the other existing models.
A RECENT REVIEW OF THE SANDWICH-STRUCTURED COMPOSITE METAMATERIALS: STATIC AND DYNAMIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Kadum Njim Emad , Emad Sadiq , Noori Hamzah Mohsin
Published: August 2023

Metamaterials, commonly known as synthetic composites with exotic dynamic characteristics, have recently generated increasing interest. A short description of composite metamaterial and their types, applications, and manufacturing techniques was reported. Contrary to all previous research, this investigation focuses on the recent studies of static and dynamic analysis of composite metamaterial structure and mechanical performance using experimental and finite element method analyses. Furthermore, the literature has described several methods for constructing composite sandwiches, properties, and advantages over conventional materials. Due to the wide variety of materials and configurations used in the final product, there is a corresponding diversity in manufacturing techniques. Therefore, the current research has mainly concentrated on a wealth of information that should be important to all researchers interested in keeping up with the most recent developments in composite metamaterial sandwich structures. Consequently, this study can be considered a guideline for researchers who intend further research on the mechanical behavior analysis and technology of designed composite metamaterial structures.
Derived categories of hearts on Kuznetsov components
Authors: Li Chunyi , Pertusi Laura , Zhao Xiaolei
Published: August 2023

We prove a general criterion that guarantees that an admissible subcategory of the derived category of an abelian category is equivalent to the bounded derived category of the heart of a bounded t‐structure. As a consequence, we show that has a strongly unique dg enhancement, applying the recent results of Canonaco, Neeman, and Stellari. We apply this criterion to the Kuznetsov component when is a cubic fourfold, a GM variety, or a quartic double solid. In particular, we obtain that these Kuznetsov components have strongly unique dg enhancement and that exact equivalences of the form are of Fourier–Mukai type when , belong to these classes of varieties, as predicted by a conjecture of Kuznetsov.
Age-Related Reference Intervals for Physical Performance Test Outcomes Relevant to Male Youth Middle Eastern Football Players
Authors: Lolli Lorenzo , Gregson Warren , Bonanno Daniele , Kuitunen Sami , Di Salvo Valter
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To develop age-specific reference intervals for physical performance test outcomes relevant to male youth Middle Eastern football players. Methods: We analyzed mixed-longitudinal data (observations range: 1751–1943 assessments) from a sample of 441 male youth outfield football players (chronological age range: 11.7–18.4 y) as part of the Qatar Football Association and Aspire Academy development program over 14 competitive seasons. Semiparametric generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape estimated age-specific reference centiles for 10-m sprinting, 40-m sprinting, countermovement jump height, and maximal aerobic speed variables. Results: The estimated reference intervals indicated that the distribution of the physical performance test scores increased monotonically and nonlinearly with advancing chronological age for sprinting and countermovement jump outcome measures, reaching a plateau after 16 years common to each of these performance variables. The maximal aerobic speed median score increased substantially until ∼14.5 years, with the nonlinear trend flattening off toward relatively older chronological ages. Conclusions: We developed age-related reference intervals for physical performance test outcomes relevant to youth Qatari football players. Country-wide age-specific reference intervals can assist in the longitudinal tracking of the individual players’ progress over time against benchmark values derived from the reference population.