bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hippocampal volumes in UK Biobank are associated with APOE only in older adults
Authors: Chaloemtoem Ariya , Thornton Vera , Chang Yoonhoo , Anokhin Andrey P. , Belloy Michaël E. , Bijsterbosch Janine , Gordon Brian A. , Hartz Sarah M. , Bierut Laura J.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

The hippocampus atrophies with age and is implicated in neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD). We examined the interplay between age and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype on total hippocampal volume.

METHODS

Using neuroimaging data from 37,463 UK Biobank participants, we applied linear regression to quantify the association of age and APOE with hippocampal volume and identified the age when volumes of ε2/ε3, ε3/ε4, and ε4/ε4 carriers significantly deviated from ε3/ε3 using generalized additive modeling.

RESULTS

Total hippocampal volume declined with age, with significant differences by APOE genotype emerging after age 60. ε3/ε4 and ε4/ε4 carriers displayed reduced volumes from ages 69 and 61, respectively, while ε2/ε3 showed delayed decline starting at the age of 76.

DISCUSSION

The association of APOE and hippocampal volume is age‐dependent, with differences in volumes of ε4/ε4 carriers detected as early as age 61. This work underscores the importance of APOE genotype in determining when to begin screening for AD.

Highlights

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype shows an age‐dependent association with total hippocampal volume.

No association between APOE and total hippocampal volume was detected before age 60.

Accelerated decline was observed in ε4/ε4 carriers at age 61 and ε3/ε4 at age 69.

Delayed decline was evident in ε2/ε3 carriers starting at age 76.
Longitudinal changes in functional capacity in frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Foxe David , Irish Muireann , Cheung Sau Chi , D'Mello Mirelle , Hwang Yun Tae , Muggleton James , Cordato Nicholas J. , Piguet Olivier
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the changes in functional capacity with disease progression in a well‐characterised cohort of patients diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) presentations.

METHODS

We recruited 126 behavioural variant FTD (bvFTD), 40 progressive nonfluent aphasia (PNFA), 64 semantic dementia (SD), 45 logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA), and 115 AD patients. Functional capacity was measured annually over ∼7 years using the Disability Assessment for Dementia.

RESULTS

Linear mixed effects models revealed the bvFTD group demonstrated disproportionate functional impairment at baseline and over the study period. Functional capacity among the other syndromes showed a more uniform pattern of decline, with less severe functional impairment at baseline and ∼7%–10% mean annual decline. Baseline correlations indicated different mechanisms supporting basic and complex functional proficiency among the groups.

DISCUSSION

Our findings demonstrate distinct functional profiles across dementia syndromes with disease progression. Identifying progression milestones across syndromes will improve clinical management.

Highlights

bvFTD shows severe functional impairment at baseline and over time.

PNFA, SD, LPA, AD: less severe baseline functional impairment; more uniform decline.

General cognition is related to IADLs, but not BADLs, in all groups.

Behavioural disturbances relate to IADLs and BADLs in bvFTD and SD.

Behavioural‐ADL relations are more mixed in PNFA, LPA, and AD.
Examining Dimensionality and Item‐Quality of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire in Individuals With Eating Disorders Using Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Dufour Rachel , Steiger Howard , Booij Linda
Published: November 2024

Objective

The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) is a widely‐used measure of eating‐disorder symptoms. However, inconsistent replication of the subscale structure raises concern about validity. To provide a rigorous test of the EDE‐Q's dimensionality and item‐quality, we applied modern and classical test theory approaches to data obtained from a large, transdiagnostic sample of people with clinical eating disorders.

Method

We analyzed data from 1197 individuals (Mage = 27.9 years, SD = 10.08, 95% female) with various eating disorders, who had been assessed for treatment at a specialized program. Exploratory analyses (including Parallel Analyses), Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA) and graded‐response Item Response Theory (IRT) analyses, were conducted with Mplus.

Results

Factor analyses showed inappropriate fit to the original EDE‐Q subscales, as well as for alternative 1,2,3, and 4‐factor solutions. Parallel analyses suggested a one‐dimensional structure as best fit. IRT analyses showed substantial variability in EDE‐Q‐item quality and indicated that five items (fear of weight gain, feeling fat, desire to lose weight, importance of weight, importance of shape) were most pertinent to determining severity. The construct validity of the five EDE‐Q items was confirmed by a CFA, showing excellent fit.

Discussion

Our results suggest that EDE‐Q scores are best interpreted as spanning a one‐factor continuum. IRT results suggest that some items are more pertinent than others for determining eating‐disorder severity. Results could be useful for establishing short EDE‐Q versions, such as a five‐item version, which, in turn, would be helpful for measurement‐based clinical practice and for data‐collection in epidemiological and experimental studies.
Plasma Glycated CD59 and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Asadi Zahra , Safari‐Faramani Roya , Aghaz Faranak , Vaisi‐Raygani Asad , Jalilian Saba
Published: November 2024

Aims

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy worldwide. The standard method for screening GDM is the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). However, the OGTT is difficult, time‐consuming and requires fasting, making it an inconvenient test for GDM. Researchers have turned their attention to alternative biomarkers for GDM. This study aimed to systematically investigate the potential of plasma glycated CD59 (pGCD59) as a new biomarker for GDM and its associated adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

The systematic review was performed in the PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases from 1/1/2000 to 4/1/2024, and relevant studies were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale.

Results

The study revealed that pGCD59 levels before 20 weeks and during the second trimester of pregnancy have the potential to predict the results of the OGTT and also forecast adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as postpartum glucose intolerance (PP GI), neonatal hypoglycaemia (NH) and having large for gestational age (LGA) infants. The predictive ability of pGCD59 was found to be affected by the GDM status, especially body mass index (BMI).

Conclusions

In conclusion, pGCD59 may be a promising indicator of glucose levels and could serve as a new biomarker for GDM. However, additional studies are needed to establish a reliable reference range and cut‐off value for pGCD59.
Forecasting heart failure: Seasonal alignment of heart failure outcomes in New York
Authors: Gupta Prerna , Brinza Ellen , Khazanie Prateeti , Peterson Pamela N. , Ho P Michael , Kao David P.
Published: November 2024

Background

Seasonal variations have been observed in heart failure (HF) hospitalization. Numerous explanatory mechanisms have been proposed, but no prior studies have examined potential contributors directly. Our objective was to identify specific factors that could contribute to seasonal variability using a large longitudinal dataset of HF hospitalizations.

Methods

Hospital discharge data were obtained for all hospitals in the state of New York from 1994 to 2007. Records with a primary diagnosis of HF by the International Classification of Diseases‐9 Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) code (428.xx and 425.xx) were included. Year and month of admission were used as predictors to evaluate outcomes of in‐hospital mortality, population‐adjusted daily rate of hospital admissions and length of stay (LOS) using univariable regression including a sinusoidal model to assess the seasonality of HF outcomes. Observations were then adjusted for multiple medical covariables as well as the average local monthly temperature and humidity at each hospital using data from the Global Historical Climate Network to identify potential modifiers of seasonal variability.

Results

Among 949 907 records, the median age was 76 [inter‐quartile range (IQR) 65–84 years old], and the cohort was 54% female (510 945 records). The population‐adjusted rate of HF admissions per day increased by 1.1 admissions/day/year between 1994 and 2007, whereas in‐hospital mortality and LOS decreased by −0.3%/year and −0.3 days/year, respectively (P < 0.001 for all). Seasonal trends were identified for daily HF admissions (February peak, P < 0.0001), mortality (January peak, P < 0.001) and LOS (January peak, P < 0.01). Cosinor analysis revealed significant periodicity for HF admission rate (amplitude = ±0.9 admissions/day/100 000 people, P < 0.001), in‐hospital mortality (amplitude = ±0.47%, P < 0.001) and LOS (amplitude = ±0.23 days, P < 0.01). No other patient characteristics were significant modifiers of seasonality. Odds of mortality were highest in July rather than January when adjusted for average local temperature but not humidity.

Conclusions

Adverse outcomes in patients hospitalized with HF were significantly worse in the winter months even when adjusted for patient characteristics and concurrent acute diagnoses such as pneumonia. Local ambient temperature was the strongest modifier of the observed seasonality. Given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, additional work to determine the mechanisms of this and other environmental risk factors is urgently needed.
The Microbiome Modifies Manifestations of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Perforin‐Deficient Mice
Authors: Mann Jasmin , Runge Solveig , Schell Christoph , Gräwe Katja , Thoulass Gudrun , Lao Jessica , Ammann Sandra , Grün Sarah , König Christoph , Berger Sarah A. , Hild Benedikt , Aichele Peter , Rosshart Stephan P. , Ehl Stephan
Published: November 2024

Primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life‐threatening hyperinflammatory syndrome caused by inborn errors of cytotoxicity. Patients with biallelic PRF1 null mutations (encoding perforin) usually develop excessive immune cell activation, hypercytokinemia, and life‐threatening immunopathology in the first 6 months of life, often without an apparent infectious trigger. In contrast, perforin‐deficient (PKO) mice only develop HLH after systemic infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). We hypothesized that restricted microbe–immune cell interactions due to specific pathogen‐free (SPF) housing might explain the need for this specific viral trigger in PKO mice. To investigate the influence of a “wild” microbiome in PKO mice, we fostered PKO newborns with Wildling microbiota (‘PKO‐Wildlings’) and monitored them for signs of HLH. PKO‐Wildlings survived long‐term without spontaneous disease. Also, systemic infection with vaccinia virus did not reach the threshold of immune activation required to trigger HLH in PKO‐Wildlings. Interestingly, after infection with LCMV, PKO‐Wildlings developed an altered HLH pattern. This included lower IFN‐γ serum levels along with improved IFN‐γ‐driven anemia, but more elevated levels of IL‐17 and increased liver inflammation compared with PKO‐SPF mice. Thus, wild microbiota alone is not sufficient to trigger HLH in PKO mice, but host–microbe interactions shape inflammatory cytokine patterns, thereby influencing manifestations of HLH immunopathology.
Neural Crest‐Derived Mesenchymal Cells Support Thymic Reconstitution After Lethal Irradiation
Authors: Tetteh Doris Narki , Isono Kana , Hikosaka‐Kuniishi Mari , Yamazaki Hidetoshi
Published: November 2024

Reconstitution of the thymus is essential for assessing thymic function following injury. However, the currently employed cytoreductive regimes unvaryingly affect the thymic microenvironment, thereby impeding the recovery of T lymphopoiesis. The thymic stroma is composed of epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Thymic mesenchymal cells originate from the Neural crest (NC) and mesoderm and contribute to thymus organogenesis, yet their role in thymic regeneration is unclear. In this study, using transgenic mice expressing NC‐specific Cre and Cre‐driven DT receptors, we investigated the role of NC‐derived mesenchymal cells in thymic regeneration following total body irradiation. We revealed that NC‐derived mesenchymal cells have reduced susceptibility to irradiation and induce the upregulation of hematopoietic factors that promote thymus regeneration after irradiation. Additionally, using adult thymic organ culture and renal capsule transplantation, depletion of NC‐derived mesenchymal cells resulted in a reduction of DN1‐like early T‐cell progenitors (ETP) and impaired thymic regeneration. Furthermore, among the numerous factors upregulated by NC‐derived mesenchymal cells, Periostin and Flt3L were markedly increased after irradiation and promoted abundance of DN1‐like ETPs during thymic reconstitution. Collectively, these findings highlight the importance of NC‐derived mesenchymal cells in thymic regeneration.
Microwave Assisted Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oil Using Steel Slags as Catalyst
Authors: Derobertis Francesca , Stella Leone Maria , Mesto Ernesto , Schingaro Emanuela , Porfido Carlo , Ditaranto Nicoletta , Mali Matilda , Dell'Anna Maria Michela , Mastrorilli Piero
Published: November 2024

An innovative catalytic system for biodiesel synthesis starting from waste biomass (waste cooking oil, WCO) in the presence of waste material (steel slags) as the catalyst under microwave irradiation is described. The reaction conditions were optimized by using response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box‐Behnken Design (BBD) taking time, temperature, and catalyst weight as factors. The optimum conditions, leading to 97 % conversion of WCO into FAMEs (fatty acid methyl esters) were found to be: 18 min reaction time, 134 °C and 380 mg of catalyst for 1.0 mL of WCO. The recyclability of the catalyst was tested at different experimental conditions, and by increasing the reaction times for subsequent cycles, the catalytic efficiency remained steady. The alkalinity of both as‐received steel slags and steel slags recovered after three reaction cycles was tested with the Hammett indicator method. The steel slags were also characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Fluorescence (ED‐XRF), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS).
Trench investigation to quantify debris flow activity for landslide hazard mapping in populated areas: Lessons learned from Gol, southern Norway
Authors: Eilertsen Raymond S. , Sletten Kari , Sandøy Gro , Hermanns Reginald , Romundset Anders , Rubensdotter Lena
Published: November 2024

We here describe the results of stratigraphic and sedimentological examinations of debris flow deposits at Breidokk, Gol, southern Norway. The deposits are situated at the valley floor, below a steep slope with three large and several smaller debris flow channels incised into the thick till cover. The study area is populated and with abundant infrastructure such as roads, public and private buildings and other types of infrastructure, including underground water pipes and cables. Six, 10–15 m long and 1–3 m deep trenches were dug out with an excavator and examined. The sediments in the trenches consist of moraine‐, glaciofluvial/fluvial‐ and debris flow deposits. The latter consist of matrix supported, unsorted, massive beds from 1 cm to more than 1 m in thickness, with clasts up to 80 cm in diameter. A total of 16 post glacial debris flow beds are identified in five of the six trenches, representing a minimum of eight individual debris flow events. This is probably an underestimation of the debris flow activity through postglacial times as the location of the trenches was in large determined by infrastructure and were not optimally placed for mapping all debris flow deposits in the area. Also, correlation between trenches proved difficult. A total of 37 radiocarbon ages of buried soil and other organic material situated above and below debris flow deposits, together with the sedimentological and stratigraphical interpretation, show that debris flow activity has prevailed throughout the Holocene, also within the last 1000 years. A possible increase in activity within the last 3–4000 years BP has been noted. This is important knowledge to aid in the interpretation of the Quaternary history of the area but also to determine the hazard zones.
Sectoral Corporate Profits and Long‐Run Stock Return Volatility in the United States: A GARCH‐MIDAS Approach
Authors: Salisu Afees , Isah Kazeem O. , Ogbonna Ahamuefula Ephraim
Published: November 2024

This study aims to examine the usefulness of corporate profits in predicting the return volatility of sectoral stocks in the United States. We use a GARCH‐MIDAS approach to keep the datasets in their original frequencies. The results show a consistently positive slope coefficient across various sectoral stocks. This implies that higher profits lead to increased trading of stocks and, subsequently, a higher volatility in the long run than usual. Furthermore, the analysis also extends to predictability beyond the in‐sample. We find strong evidence that corporate profits can predict the out‐of‐sample long‐run return volatility of sectoral stocks in the United States. These findings are significant for investors and portfolio managers.
Predictive Power of Key Financial Variables During the Unconventional Monetary Policy Era
Authors: Kuosmanen Petri , Vataja Juuso
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the forecasting power of three well‐established financial predictors during the prolonged era of unconventional monetary policy: the term spread, the short‐term interest rate, and stock returns. The focus is on predicting GDP growth in both the United States and the Euro area. Our out‐of‐sample forecasting analysis specifically targets the period characterized by the short‐term interest rate effectively bounded at or near the zero lower bound. We recognize that the information content of the term spread is likely to change under such circumstances. Similarly, the dynamics of the short‐term interest rate could be altered due to unconventional monetary policy measures. To address this, we modify the short rate calculation by incorporating the shadow interest. This shadow interest rate can go much lower on the negative side than normal interest rates, making it a potentially more accurate rate to describe the monetary policy stance of central banks. The forecasting analysis covers the period from 2009:1 to 2022:3. Our results unambiguously reveal that the predictive power of the term spread completely vanishes during the zero lower bound era. Although the shadow rate has minor predictive content, the strongest predictor consistently lies in real stock returns during unconventional monetary policy. Our findings challenge the conventional wisdom and the stylized fact of the term spread as the most reliable financial predictor for economic activity. According to our results, this does not hold true under unconventional monetary policy, and using the shadow interest rate does not make a major difference in that respect. By shedding light on the changing dynamics during unconventional monetary policy, our study contributes novel insights to the existing literature.
The Impact of Fermentation on Aflatoxin and Fumonisin Levels in Sorghum Kernels and Flour Used to Prepare Complementary Food in Kerio Valley, Kenya
Authors: Lesuuda Lmeriai , Obonyo Meshack Amos , Cheserek Maureen Jepkorir
Published: November 2024

Sorghum is a major ingredient used in the production of complementary foods in Kenya's drylands, particularly in areas like Kerio Valley. However, it is known to be susceptible to aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination, which have adverse effects on human health. The current study aimed to assess the levels of aflatoxin and fumonisin in sorghum kernels and flour from Kerio Valley and to investigate whether fermentation (spontaneous or innoculum facilated) could reduce the levels of toxins. The sorghum samples were obtained through a cross‐sectional survey and subjected to ELISA analysis for quantification of aflatoxin and fumonisin levels. The aflatoxin levels ranged from 0 to 119.91 ppb for sorghum kernels and from 2.70 to 89.36 ppb in the flour, while fumonisin concentrations ranged from 0 to 30.65 ppm in sorghum kernels and 0.22 to 27.27 ppm in the flour. Fermentation significantly reduced the levels of the toxins in sorghum samples (p ≤ 0.05). The type of fermentation (p = 0.001), sample fermented (kernels or flour) (p = 0.004), and duration of fermentation (p = 0.037) significantly impacted the reduction of both toxins. Therefore, there is a need to integrate the adoption of fermentation with other effective postharvest practices to mitigate mycotoxin contamination in sorghum and other cereal‐based foods. In addition to the customary health and nutrition messages, promoting proper food handling, storage, and processing can significantly contribute to improving food safety and the overall health and nutritional status of young children.
Beet Root Peel Extract as a Natural Cost‐Effective pH Indicator and Food Preservative in Edible Film: Shelf Life Improvement of Cold‐Stored Trout Fillet
Authors: Ghanbar Soleiman Abadi Fatemeh , Bazargani‐Gilani Behnaz , Emamifar Aryou , Nourian Alireza
Published: November 2024

In this study, chitosan (C)‐polyvinyl alcohol (P) edible film containing bio‐fabricated nanosilver particles (nAg) (as antimicrobial agent) and beetroot peel extract (BRPE) (as antioxidant agent and pH indicator) was used as spoilage indicator in cold‐stored rainbow trout fillets. DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity (43.02%), reducing power (2.87), and total phenolic content (360.50 mg GAE/g) of ethanolic BRPE were higher than aqueous extract. Silver nanoparticles were biosynthesized using silver nitrate reduction by chitosan, confirmed by UV–Visible spectroscopy, optical and scanning electron microscope images, and X‐ray diffraction analysis. The highest tensile strength (4.20 MPa) and elongation at break (118%) belonged to the CP‐BRPE film, and the lowest water vapor permeability (2.45 10−5 g/s/m/P) was related to the CP‐nAg film. Also, the lowest total viable count (6.17 log CFU/g), psychrotrophic bacteria (6.27 log CFU/g), Enterobacteriaceae (4.9 log CFU/g), pH (5.66), total volatile basic‐nitrogen (TVB‐N) (22.1 mg/100 g of fish), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (0.705 mg MDA/kg of fish) values of the packaged trout fillets were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) observed in CP‐BRPE‐gnAg treatment among the other treatments at the end of the storage period, and CP‐gnAg, CP‐BRPE, and CP treatments were in the next ranks, respectively. Colorimetric analysis of the used films showed that the films containing BRPE depicted color spectra of red to yellow at the same time as the spoilage symptoms initiated in the packaged fillets. It is concluded that BRPE not only increased the preservative effects of chitosan‐polyvinyl alcohol film containing green silver nanoparticles but also can be considered as a natural cost‐effective spoilage indicator of the rainbow trout fillets during cold storage time.
Misdiagnosis of type A acute aortic dissection in the emergency department: 10 Year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tian Qi , Cheung Ralph Koon Ho , Cheng Chi Hung , Hung Kevin Kei Ching , Graham Colin Alexander
Published: November 2024

Background

Type A acute aortic dissection (TAAAD) is a serious cardiovascular disease with a high mortality rate and prompt diagnosis is the key to survival. However, misdiagnosis is common in the Emergency Department (ED). The aim of this study is to evaluate the rate of misdiagnosis, factors associated with misdiagnosis and patient outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study recruited 91 patients with TAAAD at the ED of a tertiary university hospital in Hong Kong from 2013 to 2022. Patients were divided into the following two groups: correct diagnosis (60 patients) and misdiagnosis (31 patients) of TAAAD. Clinical symptoms, signs, and investigations were analyzed as factors associated with misdiagnosis by multivariate analysis. In‐patient mortality, 30‐day mortality, 1‐year mortality, and hospital length of stay (LOS) were compared between the two groups.

Results

The misdiagnosis rate of TAAAD was 34.1% (31/91). Absence of severe intensity pain (OR = 6.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.41–25.63, p = 0.015), less urgent triage category (OR = 4.46, 95% CI = 1.77–11.22, p = 0.002), and absence of point‐of‐care ultrasound exam (POCUS) (OR = 13.00, 95% CI = 3.05–55.40, p = 0.001) were associated with misdiagnosis. There were no statistically significant differences between correct diagnosis and misdiagnosis groups in patient outcomes including in‐hospital mortality (28.3% vs. 38.7%), 30‐day mortality (28.3% vs. 38.7%), 1‐year mortality (30.0% vs. 41.9%), or hospital LOS (15.5 ± 15.6 days vs. 14.7 ± 15.5 days).

Conclusions

One‐third of cases in our study were misdiagnosed. The absence of severe intensity pain, less urgent triage category, and absence of POCUS ultrasound exam were independent factors associated with misdiagnosis. More widespread use of POCUS of the aorta and heart may help to improve the diagnosis of TAAAD in the ED.
Effectiveness of virtual reality in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Systematic review
Authors: Alvarado‐Omenat Jorge Juan , Llamas‐Ramos Rocío , García‐García Daniel , Correyero‐León Marta , Fonseca‐Sánchez Emilio , Llamas‐Ramos Inés
Published: November 2024

Virtual reality is on the rise and is currently postulated as one of the most innovative and promising techniques in the management of pain and anxiety in cancer patients, in the face of painful processes or the stress involved in chemotherapy treatment. The objective has been to find out the effectiveness of virtual reality in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Several literature reviews were conducted between November 2023 and January 2024 in the Pubmed, Web of Science and PEDro databases. The keywords “virtual reality,” “cancer,” “oncology,” “exercise” and “chemotherapy” were combined using the Boolean operator AND. 641 manuscripts were selected as potential manuscripts and after elimination of duplicates and application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, six articles comprised the final review sample. Virtual reality has proven to be an effective technique in reducing the anxiety, pain, asthenia and stress suffered by patients diagnosed with cancer and chemotherapy treatment. The distraction generated by this therapeutic modality, with a wide range of scenarios, helps to reduce the painful perception and worry of these procedures. However, there are no standard application guidelines or application protocols that demonstrate the superiority of one technique over another. Virtual reality could be a valid complementary tool in the treatment of patients undergoing chemotherapy, showing positive results in pain reduction, anxiety, stress or asthenia. More studies are needed, with larger sample sizes and long‐term follow‐ups to establish treatment protocols in relation to the frequency, intensity, duration and periodicity of interventions with virtual reality.
Real Earnings Management and ESG Performance in China: The Mediating Role of Corporate Innovations
Authors: Abdelbaky Aya , Liu Tingli , Mingyang Xu , Shahzad Muhammad Farrukh , Hassanein Ahmed
Published: November 2024

This study addresses whether the positive consequences of corporate innovation can mitigate the negative repercussions of earning management practices on corporate sustainability. Specifically, it investigates the impact of real earning management (REM) practices on corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. Likewise, it explores the mediating role of corporate innovation inputs and outputs in this relationship. The study uses a sample of the A‐share listed firms in the Chinese stock market from 2011 to 2021. We measure REM activities as a comprehensive index of corporate abnormal cash flows, abnormal production costs and abnormal discretionary expenses. The Chinese firms' ESG performance is based on Huazheng's ESG rating. Corporate innovation is categorised into innovation input (i.e., R&D expenditure) and innovation output (i.e., patent applications). The study finds that REM practices inversely affect corporate ESG performance and its various pillars. Likewise, firms that engage in higher REM practices are less likely to allocate resources to innovation (i.e., lower R&D expenditure) and have a low innovation output (i.e., fewer patent applications). Nevertheless, firms with higher innovation input and/or higher innovation output exhibit higher ESG performance. Finally, the corporate innovation input and output mediate the relationship between REM practices and ESG performance, suggesting that the positive influence of innovation on ESG performance helps to mitigate the negative consequences of earnings management practices. These results underscore the significance of ethical financial practices and innovation‐driven strategies in enhancing corporate ESG performance.
Diminished ovarian reserve may have no effect on embryo euploidy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zheng Zichen , Jiang Wei , Geng Tangyi , Yang Ye , Zhao Chun , Ling Xiufeng
Published: November 2024

Objective

Does an association exist between diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and embryonic aneuploidy risk in young women of reproductive age?

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 854 participants treated in the Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medicine University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, from May 2016 to September 2023 for a total of 894 cycles. The relationship between ovarian reserve and embryonic euploidy was evaluated using statistical methods such as generalized estimating equation (GEE) and propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

Despite the higher number of biopsied blastocysts in women with normal ovarian reserve, no significant difference in embryonic aneuploidy rates was observed between DOR women and the control group. In addition, there were no significant disparities observed in the rates of metaphase II (MII) oocytes, normal fertilization, transferable embryos, blastocyst formation, and high‐scoring blastocysts between the DOR and control groups after PSM.

Conclusion

This study showed that DOR had no significant effect on the incidence of aneuploidy in embryos. Young women informed about DOR should be relatively confident about the quality of their eggs and the euploidy status of their embryos before conventional assisted reproduction, thereby mitigating concern regarding adverse maternal outcomes due to aneuploidy.
Application of quantitative histomorphometric features in computational pathology
Authors: Shi Yujie , Hu Bo , Xu Mingyan , Yao Yunhan , Gao Shuaiqiang , Xia Xiang , Deng Xikai , Liu Jianfeng , Gu Jia , Chen Shifu
Published: November 2024

Computer vision has facilitated the execution of various computer‐aided diagnostic tasks. From a methodological perspective, these tasks are primarily implemented using two dominant strategies: end‐to‐end Deep learning (DL)‐based methods and traditional feature engineering‐based methods. DL methods are capable of automatically extracting, analyzing, and filtering features, leading to final decision‐making from whole slide images. However, these methods are often criticized for the “black box” issue, a significant limitation of DL. In contrast, traditional feature engineering‐based methods involve well‐defined quantitative input features. But it was considered as less potent than DL methods. Advances in segmentation technology and the development of quantitative histomorphometric (QH) feature representation have propelled the evolution of feature engineering‐based methods. This review contrasts the performance differences between the two methods and traces the development of QH feature representation. The conclusion is that, with the ongoing progress in QH feature representation and segmentation technology, methods based on QH features will leverage their advantages—such as explainability, reduced reliance on large training datasets, and lower computational resource requirements—to play a more significant role in some clinical tasks. They may even replace DL methods somewhat or be used in conjunction with them to achieve accurate and understandable results.
A 13‐year review of triple jump examination at the Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California
Authors: Navazesh Mahvash , Chen Xi , Schilperoort Hannah , Bautista Sharon , Eisenberg Larry
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The triple jump examination (TJE) has been instituted at the Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California (OSDUSC) since 2001 as an assessment tool of critical thinking skills for its learner‐centered pedagogy. A 2013 study detailed the TJE's design, validity, and initial outcomes. The current study focused on its 13‐year sustainability including a transition from in‐person to hybrid TJE by assessing outcomes from the graduating Classes of 2014 through 2026.

Methods

The study was approved by the USC Institutional Review Board (#UP‐21‐00272‐AM001). To assess sustainability, the study first examined agreements among TJE faculty raters based on a total of 10,512 TJEs given to 1872 students from the 13 classes. Next, to determine whether the effectiveness of TJE was impacted by the transition from traditional to hybrid TJE, an independent t‐test was performed to examine student performance between the two exam delivery methods based on 4896 TJEs given to 864 students.

Results

The study observed a high level of agreement among faculty raters throughout the study period. The general agreement rates, exact agreement rates, and disagreement rates averaged 99.2%, 77.3%, and 0.8%, respectively. Students’ TJE performance was similar between the traditional and hybrid delivery methods (p‐value = 0.629 > 0.05, t critical two‐tail = 2.074, t stat = 0.489).

Conclusion

The TJE at OSDUSC proves to be a sustainable and reliable instrument with high internal consistency among raters when evaluating students’ performance. The transition from traditional to hybrid TJE has no impact on the TJE's effectiveness.
Exploring the Impact of Variability in Cell Segmentation and Tracking Approaches
Authors: Wiggins Laura , O'Toole Peter J. , Brackenbury William J. , Wilson Julie
Published: November 2024

Segmentation and tracking are essential preliminary steps in the analysis of almost all live cell imaging applications. Although the number of open‐source software systems that facilitate automated segmentation and tracking continue to evolve, many researchers continue to opt for manual alternatives for samples that are not easily auto‐segmented, tracing cell boundaries by hand and reidentifying cells on consecutive frames by eye. Such methods are subject to inter‐user variability, introducing idiosyncrasies into the results of downstream analysis that are a result of subjectivity and individual expertise. The methods are also susceptible to intra‐user variability, meaning findings are challenging to reproduce. In this pilot study, we demonstrate and quantify the degree of intra‐ and inter‐user variability in manual cell segmentation and tracking by comparing the phenotypic metrics extracted from cells segmented and tracked by different members of our research team. Furthermore, we compare the segmentation results for a ptychographic cell image obtained using different automated software and demonstrate the high dependence of performance on the imaging modality they were developed to handle. Our results show that choice of segmentation and tracking methods should be considered carefully in order to enhance the quality and reproducibility of results.
The PRE‐registration podiatry: Accessible recruitment and employment (PREPARE) project: A commentary on the novel approach to the podiatry workforce crisis in Glasgow
Authors: Price Pamela , Higgins Paul , Lambert David , Dickson Diane M. , Barn Ruth
Published: November 2024

The profession of podiatry is facing significant workforce challenges and urgent solutions are required to increase workforce capacity. Apprenticeship models are available in England but as yet, not available in Scotland. This paper explores the local context of the current workforce challenges and summarises a novel solution collaboratively developed in Glasgow. A collaborative initiative between NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Glasgow Caledonian University developed the PRE‐registration Podiatry: Accessible Recruitment and Employment (PREPARE) Project. Creative use of vacancy savings are being used to employ a limited number of individuals on a whole‐time Band 5 Annex 21 basis at the start of their podiatry degree for the duration of their studies. Academic timetables were consolidated with no change to module or learning outcomes with candidates spending 3 days per week on academic studies and 2 days per week employed within the host podiatry service during term time. If academic milestones are achieved, substantive Band five opportunities are available once registration is achieved. This project opens opportunities for graduate level study to the support workforce and others not in a position to pursue traditional models of full‐time education. To date, two additional health boards in Scotland have adopted this model and it has the potential to be a national approach for Scotland. High applicant numbers were achieved demonstrating increased interest in podiatry from this approach. This project has the potential to have a transformative impact on educating and training the future workforce, potentially being adopted by other professions facing similar workforce challenges.
An artificial intelligence‐based recognition model of colorectal liver metastases in intraoperative ultrasonography with improved accuracy through algorithm integration
Authors: Takayama Maho , Ito Kyoji , Karako Kenji , Mihara Yuichiro , Sasaki Shu , Ichida Akihiko , Takamoto Takeshi , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: November 2024

Background/Purpose

Contrast‐enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography (CE‐IOUS) is crucial for detecting colorectal liver metastases (CLM) during surgery. Although artificial intelligence shows potential in diagnostic systems, its application in CE‐IOUS is limited.

Methods

This study aimed to develop an automatic tumor detection model using Mask region‐based convolutional neural network (Mask R‐CNN) for CE‐IOUS images. CE‐IOUS videos of the CLM from 121 patients were collected, generating ground truth data. A total of 2659 images were obtained. Two models were developed: the basic recognition model (BRM), which was trained on CE‐mode images, and the subtraction model (SM), which used images created by a subtraction algorithm that highlighted the differences in pixel values between the basic‐mode and CE‐mode images. The subtraction algorithm focuses on echogenicity differences. These two models were combined into a combination model (CM), which assessed outcomes using the prediction probabilities from both models.

Results

The optimal epochs were determined by the maximum area under the curve (AUC), and the thresholds were calculated accordingly. BRM, SM, and CM achieved 89.4%, 86.6%, and 96.5% accuracy, respectively. CM outperformed the individual models, achieving an AUC of 0.99.

Conclusions

A novel automated recognition model was developed for accurate CLM detection in CE‐IOUS by integrating image‐ and algorithm‐based models.
Time Series Clustering of Sea Surface Temperature in the Mediterranean and Black Sea Marine System
Authors: Tagil Sermin , Danacioglu Sevki , Yurtseven Nami
Published: November 2024

Sea surface temperature (SST) is a significant climatic variable that affects the climate of the Earth. Monitoring a location's SST pattern is useful for several research areas, including weather forecasting and climate change. In this study, the emerging hot spot and cold spot patterns of SST in the Mediterranean and Black Sea Marine System (MBMS) were examined, the spatial distribution characteristics and temporal changes of SST in the sub‐basins were analysed, and future predictions were made. A distinctive aspect of the research lies in the introduction of novel techniques, specifically the application of space time cube and evolving hot spot analysis, for visualising and evaluating SST in the MBMS. This approach sets the study apart by pioneering the utilisation of these methods in this particular context. In the examined region, SST demonstrates a decreasing trend from east to west and from south to north. The forecast suggests that this spatial distribution pattern will persist in 2033, further accentuated by the intensification of the warming effect. Nine different time series clusters are defined within this distribution pattern. Although it changes seasonally, the prevailing statistically significant hot spots in the study area are primarily characterised by new hot spots, intensifying hot spots, sporadic hot spots and oscillating hot spots. The trends of hot and cold spot clusters, along with SST values, were assessed for all sub‐basins in the MBMS. Conversely, the observed clustering category among statistically significant cold spots is identified as persistent cold spots, diminishing cold spots, sporadic cold spots, oscillating cold spots and historical cold spots. The spatiotemporal analysis in this research has provided notable insights, offering a spatial context to the previously explored temporal trends of SST in the MBMS.
Clearing‐enabled light sheet microscopy as a novel method for three‐dimensional mapping of the sensory innervation of the mouse knee
Authors: Ko Frank C. , Fullam Spencer , Lee Hoomin , Chan Kelly , Ishihara Shingo , Adamczyk Natalie S. , Obeidat Alia M. , Soorya Sarah , Miller Richard J. , Malfait Anne‐Marie , Miller Rachel E.
Published: November 2024

A major barrier that hampers our understanding of the precise anatomic distribution of pain sensing nerves in and around the joint is the limited view obtained from traditional two dimensional (D) histological approaches. Therefore, our objective was to develop a workflow that allows examination of the innervation of the intact mouse knee joint in 3D by employing clearing‐enabled light sheet microscopy. We first surveyed existing clearing protocols (SUMIC, PEGASOS, and DISCO) to determine their ability to clear the whole mouse knee joint, and discovered that a DISCO protocol provided the optimal transparency for light sheet microscopy imaging. We then modified the DISCO protocol to enhance binding and penetration of antibodies used for labeling nerves. Using the pan‐neuronal PGP9.5 antibody, our protocol allowed 3D visualization of innervation in and around the mouse knee joint. We then implemented the workflow in mice intra‐articularly injected with nerve growth factor (NGF) to determine whether changes in the nerve density can be observed. Both 3D and 2D analytical approaches of the light sheet microscopy images demonstrated quantifiable changes in midjoint nerve density following 4 weeks of NGF injection in the medial but not in the lateral joint compartment. We provide, for the first time, a comprehensive workflow that allows detailed and quantifiable examination of mouse knee joint innervation in 3D.
Evaluation of flavor characteristics in Chinese wheat flour paste using electronic‐nose, electronic‐tongue, and headspace‐gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry at different fermentation stages
Authors: Kh Ahmada Ahmada , Mi Si , Tian Hongshuang , Xu Xinjun , Abdo Abdullah A. A , Aleryani Hamzah , Wang Xianghong
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Wheat flour paste is a typical Chinese fermented food, valued for its distinct flavors and health benefits. However, evidence regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Chinese wheat flour paste is limited. This study aims to examine the effect of fermentation on the VOCs and their physicochemical properties. Chinese wheat flour paste fermented at different stages was characterized using headspace gas chromatography ion‐mobility spectrometry (HS‐GC‐IMS) with an electronic nose (E‐nose) and an electronic tongue (E‐tongue).

RESULTS

The results revealed that around 76 VOCs were found in Chinese wheat flour paste from all stages of fermentation. These included esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids, furans, and pyrazines. The E‐tongue and E‐nose analyses also showed high responses for saltiness, umami, WIW, and W5S. The fermentation process changed the color of the wheat flour paste, and the taste, and smell parameters. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that taste parameters were positively associated with the volatile flavor profile detected in wheat flour paste. Partial least squares discriminant analysis also identified 28 VOCs as distinct flavor metabolites across fermentation stages.

CONCLUSION

At the ‘after ripening’ (AR) and ‘sterilization’ (S) stages of wheat flour paste fermentation there were strong umami and salty flavors, with minimal sour and sweet notes in comparison with the other stages. These stages were characterized by elevated terpene concentrations, inorganic sulfides, and key flavor enhancers such as 2‐hexanol and propyl sulfide. Headspace gas chromatography ion‐mobility spectrometry and E‐nose technologies are recommended for a more precise assessment of volatile changes during fermentation. The findings indicate that the ‘sterilization’ stage of wheat flour paste fermentation is optimal for achieving the required flavor profile. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Nasopharynx Cancer in the United States: Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Stage at Presentation
Authors: Dee Edward Christopher , Wang Stephanie , Ho Frances Dominique V. , Patel Roshal R. , Lapen Kaitlyn , Wu Yingzhi , Yang Fan , Patel Tej A. , Feliciano Erin Jay G. , McBride Sean M. , Lee Nancy Y.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Although nasopharynx cancer (NPC) is rare in the United States, global epidemiology varies greatly. Therefore, understanding NPC disparities in the diverse US setting is critical.

Methods and Materials

Data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB, 2004‐2021) identified patients with NPC; NCDB allows disaggregation by Asian American (AA) subgroups. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic factors defined adjusted odds ratios (aORs).

Results

Of 15,862 patients, 11,173 (70.4%) were male (median age 59). Commonest groups included 10,034 (63.3%) White, 2,272 (14.3%) Black, 1,103 (7.0%) Chinese, 442 (2.8%) Filipino, and 338 (2.1%) Vietnamese patients. Prior to disaggregation, the proportion of stage IV disease at presentation was 43.2% among White (ref), 50.0% among Black (aOR 1.12, p = 0.012), 52.0% among Native American (aOR 1.18, p > 0.05), 41.9% among AA (aOR 0.97, p > 0.05), and 55.1% among Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander patients (aOR 1.47, p = 0.021).

Upon disaggregation, the proportion of stage IV disease was the greatest (>50%) among Black (50.0%, aOR 1.12, p = 0.012), Laotian (61.5%, aOR 2.21, p = 0.001), Hmong (73.2%, aOR 2.92, p < 0.001), and Other Pacific Islander patients (60.9%, aOR 1.83, p = 0.004); 44.2% of Filipino patients also presented with stage IV disease (aOR 1.21, p = 0.033). Odds of presenting with advanced stage disease were lower among Chinese patients (35.7% stage IV, aOR 0.72, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although most NPC patients were Chinese, White, or Black, stage IV disease at presentation was most common among Hmong, Laotian, non‐Hawaiian Pacific Islander, and Black patients. Efforts are needed to improve awareness of NPC among less canonically affected groups.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 135:1113–1119, 2025