bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpersonal Violence in Five Regions in Asia: Ecological Risk Factors Associated with Perceptions of Justifiability of Violence
Authors: Park Yangjin , Song Jingyeong , Kim Yong Ook , Paik Seunghoon , Sullivan Kathrine
Published: September 2024

In Asia, rates of interpersonal violence are increasing, with significant regional disparities. However, long-term, continental-scale research considering regional differences across the Asia regions is limited. Guided by the ecological model, we examined five ecological risk factors (low life satisfaction/happiness, economic hardship, neighborhood disadvantage, patriarchal values, and religiosity) associated with perceptions of justification of interpersonal violence (i.e., intimate partner violence [IPV] against wife, child physical abuse, and violence against others) in five regions in Asia (i.e., East, West, Central, South, and Southeast). Using the World Values Survey ( n = 32,307), a multigroup multiple regression model was used with robust maximum likelihood estimation using Mplus ver. 8. In the entire Asia sample model, perceptions of justifiability of IPV against wife were positively associated with low life satisfaction/happiness; economic hardship; neighborhood disadvantage; and patriarchal values, while they were negatively associated with religiosity. Perceptions of justifiability of child abuse were positively associated with low life satisfaction/happiness; neighborhood disadvantage; and patriarchal values, while they were negatively associated with economic hardship and religiosity. Perceptions of justifiability of violence against others were positively associated with economic hardship and neighborhood disadvantage, while they were negatively associated with religiosity. Each region presented unique risk factor associations. Considering the high rates of interpersonal violence in Asia, understanding the risk factors associated with perceptions of justifying specific types of interpersonal violence can provide an initial insight into preventing violence in Asia. Further, as many Asians dwelling outside Asian regions are still influenced by their culture, religion, language, and norms of the region of origin, the study findings may shed light on future studies to consider in the interpersonal violence literature.
Balance control for dynamic displacement of active suspension and ride comfort
Authors: Gong Mingde , Bi Jiaming , Yang Haoran , Xu Xueliang , Sun Tianshuo
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to optimize the conflicting performance indicators of ride comfort and suspension dynamic displacement by introducing a balance control strategy for active suspension. An unknown nonlinear estimator (UNE) based on a low-pass filter is devised to accurately estimate the unknown nonlinear forces generated by springs and tires. In the designed control strategy, balance controller adjusts the ride comfort when the suspension dynamic displacement is lower than the set threshold, and adjusts the suspension dynamic displacement when it is higher. The boundedness of all variables in a closed-loop system is proved by Lyapunov functions. Simulation investigations and comparison results on different road surfaces are provided to show the satisfactory performance of the designed control method.
Creative Co-Imagination in Transgenerational Comics Workshops
Authors: Aula Inkeri , Masoodian Masood
Published: September 2024

With the world population aging rapidly, it is crucial to include the imagination of older adults in envisioning a better future, and to promote transgenerational exchanges. To achieve this, novel interdisciplinary methods are needed to assist researchers with studying the process of transgenerational creative co-imagination involving older adults and younger people together. In this article, we present a workshop method that brings together methodological approaches from the fields of sensorial ethnography and visual narratives in a multi-professional setting to facilitate transgenerational creative co-imagining of future. To illustrate the use of this method, we present a case study of two workshops we have held recently with older adults and young people in which a sensory walk method has been combined with a grassroots comics method to co-create comic strips that present narratives of transgenerationally co-imagined future of natural environments. We also discuss the lessons learned from these two case-study workshops, with the aim of highlighting some of the shortcomings of our workshop method, so that, it can revised and expanded further to suit the specific needs of other studies.
Exploring arteriovenous malformations patient sentiments through 1401 social media posts
Authors: Gajjar Avi A , Sioutas Georgios S , Corral-Tarbay Antonio , Salem Mohamed M , Patel Saarang , Srinivasan Visish M , Jankowitz Brian T , Burkhardt Jan-Karl
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Social media has allowed patients with rare diseases to connect and discuss their experiences with others online. This study analyzed various social media platforms to better understand the patient's perception of arteriovenous malformation.

Methods

Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok were searched to find posts about patients' experiences with arteriovenous malformations (AVM). Posts unrelated to the patient’s experience were excluded. Posts were coded for the relevant themes related to their experience with the disease, as well as engagement, and gender.

Results

The most common theme was raising awareness about the condition (87.0%). Recounting symptoms (50.2%), spreading positivity (17.5%), and survival (8.3%) were other common themes. Other prevalent themes were pain (5.2%) and fear of a rare disease (3.5%). Approximately half of AVM-related Instagram (47.93%) and TikTok (52.94%) posts raised awareness about the condition. Most Instagram (67.75%) and TikTok (89.71%) posts focused on recovery and rehabilitation. Most TikTok posts discussed “survival” or “death” (57.35%), while the majority focused on spreading positivity (79.41%). Most posts were made by women (69.6%). Females were more likely than males to post about the scientific explanation of AVMs ( p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Social media allows patients across the country and the globe to discuss their experiences with uncommon diseases and connect with others. It also allows AVM patients to share their experiences with other patients and the public.
Binary spectral collocation method for the nonlinear Fokker-Planck equation
Authors: Yajin Zhang , Tianjun Wang , Jia Tan
Published: September 2024

A mixed Laguerre-Legendre spectral collocation schemes is constructed for initial-boundary value problem of the nonlinear Fokker-Planck nonhomogeneous equations and the linear Fokker-Planck homogeneous equation by using the Laguerre interpolation functions in velocity, and the Legendre interpolation functions in time, which is a bivariate Lagrange interpolation approximation function based on Legendre and Laguerre Gauss quadrature notes. The original problem is changed into a matrix equation and solved by Newton iteration. Numerical experiments show that the algorithm has high accuracy and efficiency.
Reforming Medical Physics and Radiopharmaceutical Science Training Through a Programmatic Approach to Assessment
Authors: Osborne Kristy C. , Barbagallo Cathryn , Aldaoud Ammar , Guille Jennifer , Campbell Andrew , Anderson Megan , Pearce Jacob
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES

Programmatic assessment approaches can be extended to the design of allied health professions training, to enhance the learning of trainees. The Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine worked with assessment specialists at the Australian Council for Educational Research and Amplexa Consulting, to revise their medical physics and radiopharmaceutical science training programs. One of the central aims of the revisions was to produce a training program that provides standardized training support to their registrars throughout the 3 years, better supporting their registrars to successfully complete the program in the time frame through providing timely and constructive feedback on the registrar's progression.

METHODS

We used the principles of programmatic assessment to revise the assessment methods and progression decisions in the three training programs.

RESULTS

We revised the 3-year training programs for diagnostic imaging medical physics, radiation oncology medical physics and radiopharmaceutical science in Australia and New Zealand, incorporating clear stages of training and associated progression points.

CONCLUSIONS

We discuss the advantages and difficulties that have arisen with this implementation. We found 5 key elements necessary for implementing programmatic assessment in these specialized contexts: embracing blurred boundaries between assessment of and for learning, adapting the approach to each specialized context, change management, engaging subject matter experts, and clear communication to registrars/trainees.
Mouse embryo CoCoPUTs: novel murine transcriptomic-weighted usage website featuring multiple strains, tissues, and stages
Authors: Fumagalli Sarah E. , Smith Sean , Ghazanchyan Tigran , Meyer Douglas , Paul Rahul , Campbell Collin , Santana-Quintero Luis , Golikov Anton , Ibla Juan , Bar Haim , Komar Anton A. , Hunt Ryan C. , Lin Brian , DiCuccio Michael , Kimchi-Sarfaty Chava
Published: September 2024

Mouse (Mus musculus) models have been heavily utilized in developmental biology research to understand mammalian embryonic development, as mice share many genetic, physiological, and developmental characteristics with humans. New explorations into the integration of temporal (stage-specific) and transcriptional (tissue-specific) data have expanded our knowledge of mouse embryo tissue-specific gene functions. To better understand the substantial impact of synonymous mutational variations in the cell-state-specific transcriptome on a tissue’s codon and codon pair usage landscape, we have established a novel resource—Mouse Embryo Codon and Codon Pair Usage Tables (Mouse Embryo CoCoPUTs). This webpage not only offers codon and codon pair usage, but also GC, dinucleotide, and junction dinucleotide usage, encompassing four strains, 15 murine embryonic tissue groups, 18 Theiler stages, and 26 embryonic days. Here, we leverage Mouse Embryo CoCoPUTs and employ the use of heatmaps to depict usage changes over time and a comparison to human usage for each strain and embryonic time point, highlighting unique differences and similarities. The usage similarities found between mouse and human central nervous system data highlight the translation for projects leveraging mouse models. Data for this analysis can be directly retrieved from Mouse Embryo CoCoPUTs. This cutting-edge resource plays a crucial role in deciphering the complex interplay between usage patterns and embryonic development, offering valuable insights into variation across diverse tissues, strains, and stages. Its applications extend across multiple domains, with notable advantages for biotherapeutic development, where optimizing codon usage can enhance protein expression; one can compare strains, tissues, and mouse embryonic stages in one query. Additionally, Mouse Embryo CoCoPUTs holds great potential in the field of tissue-specific genetic engineering, providing insights for tailoring gene expression to specific tissues for targeted interventions. Furthermore, this resource may enhance our understanding of the nuanced connections between usage biases and tissue-specific gene function, contributing to the development of more accurate predictive models for genetic disorders.
Genome-wide analysis of the passion fruit invertase gene family reveals involvement of PeCWINV5 in hexose accumulation
Authors: Huang Dongmei , Wu Bin , Chen Ge , Xing Wenting , Xu Yi , Ma Funing , Li Hongli , Hu Wenbin , Huang Haijie , Yang Liu , Song Shun
Published: September 2024

Background

Invertases (INVs) are key enzymes in sugar metabolism, cleaving sucrose into glucose and fructose and playing an important role in plant development and the stress response, however, the INV gene family in passion fruit has not been systematically reported.

Results

In this study, a total of 16 PeINV genes were identified from the passion fruit genome and named according to their subcellular location and chromosome position. These include six cell wall invertase (CWINV) genes, two vacuolar invertase (VINV) genes, and eight neutral/alkaline invertase (N/AINV) genes. The gene structures, phylogenetic tree, and cis-acting elements of PeINV gene family were predicted using bioinformatics methods. Results showed that the upstream promoter region of the PeINV genes contained various response elements; particularly, PeVINV2, PeN/AINV3, PeN/AINV5, PeN/AINV6, PeN/AINV7, and PeN/AINV8 had more response elements. Additionally, the expression profiles of PeINV genes under different abiotic stresses (drought, salt, cold temperature, and high temperature) indicated that PeCWINV5, PeCWINV6, PeVINV1, PeVINV2, PeN/AINV2, PeN/AINV3, PeN/AINV6, and PeN/AINV7 responded significantly to these abiotic stresses, which was consistent with cis-acting element prediction results. Sucrose, glucose, and fructose are main soluble components in passion fruit pulp. The contents of total soluble sugar, hexoses, and sweetness index increased significantly at early stages during fruit ripening. Transcriptome data showed that with an increase in fruit development and maturity, the expression levels of PeCWINV2, PeCWINV5, and PeN/AINV3 exhibited an up-regulated trend, especially for PeCWINV5 which showed highest abundance, this correlated with the accumulation of soluble sugar and sweetness index. Transient overexpression results demonstrated that the contents of fructose, glucose and sucrose increased in the pulp of PeCWINV5 overexpressing fruit. It is speculated that this cell wall invertase gene, PeCWINV5, may play an important role in sucrose unloading and hexose accumulation.

Conclusion

In this study, we systematically identified INV genes in passion fruit for the first time and further investigated their physicochemical properties, evolution, and expression patterns. Furthermore, we screened out a key candidate gene involved in hexose accumulation. This study lays a foundation for further study on INV genes and will be beneficial on the genetic improvement of passion fruit breeding.
Assessment of long-term psychosocial outcomes in N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis – the SAPIENCE study protocol
Authors: Boeken Ole Jonas , Heine Josephine , Duda-Sikula Marta , Patricio Víctor , Picard Géraldine , Buttard Chloé , Benaiteau Marie , Mendes Álvaro , Howard Fuchsia , Easton Ava , Kurpas Donata , Honnorat Jérôme , Dalmau Josep , Finke Carsten
Published: September 2024

Background

N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a rare neurological autoimmune disease with severe neuropsychiatric symptoms during the acute phase. Despite good functional neurological recovery, most patients continue to experience cognitive, psychiatric, psychological, and social impairments years after the acute phase. However, the precise nature and evolving patterns over time of these long-term consequences remain unclear, and their implications for the well-being and quality of life of predominantly young patients have yet to be thoroughly examined.

Methods

SAPIENCE is a European multi-center (n = 3) prospective observational cohort study studying the long-term cognitive, psychiatric, psychological, and social outcome in patients with NMDAR encephalitis. The study consists of three interconnected levels. Level 1 comprises a qualitative interview and focus groups with patients and their caregivers. Level 2 consists of a condensed form of the interview, standardized questionnaires, and a detailed neuropsychological examination of patients. Level 3 involves an online survey that will be open to patients world-wide and explores patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), and patient-reported experiences (PREMs) in association with clinical and cognitive outcomes. Levels 1 to 3 will progressively contribute developing of structured interviews, survey questions, and treatment guidelines by informing one another.

Discussion

SAPIENCE is an in-depth study of the long-term effects of NMDAR encephalitis and bridges the gap between standardized assessments and individual patient experiences, intending to improve patient care and to increase awareness of the psychosocial long-term consequences of the disease. Through collaboration of experts in clinical neurology and social and health psychology across Europe, SAPIENCE aims to create online assessment tools and formulate guidelines for patient-centered post-acute care that will help enhance the quality of life for patients and caregivers.
Correlation of TNF-α polymorphisms with susceptibility to lung cancer: evidence from a meta-analysis based on 29 studies
Authors: HaghighiKian Seyed Masoud , Shirinzadeh-Dastgiri Ahmad , Ershadi Reza , Vakili-Ojarood Mohammad , Barahman Maedeh , Dastgheib Seyed Alireza , Asadian Fatemeh , Shiri Amirmasoud , Aghasipour Maryam , Rahmani Amirhossein , Aghili Kazem , Neamatzadeh Hossein
Published: September 2024

Objective

This meta-analysis aims to clarify the association between the TNF-α -308G > A and − 238G > A polymorphisms and lung cancer risk.

Method

A comprehensive search was conducted for relevant articles across databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, EMBASE, and CNKI, up to September 25, 2023. Lung cancer risk was assessed by calculating odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The Z-test was used to determine the significance of combined ORs, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. All analyses were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) 2.0 software.

Results

The analysis included 19 case-control studies with 3,838 cases and 5,306 controls for the TNF-α -308G > A polymorphism, along with 10 studies comprising 2,427 cases and 2,357 controls for the − 238G > A polymorphism. The − 308G > A polymorphism showed no significant overall relationships, though in the Asian subgroup, the A allele was significantly reduced compared to G (OR: 0.831, p = 0.028) and the AA genotype showed significant reductions versus GG (OR: 0.571, p = 0.021), with no significant correlation in Caucasians. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the A allele was associated with increased risk compared to G (OR: 1.131, p = 0.049). For the − 238G > A polymorphism, the AA genotype significantly increased risk compared to GG (OR: 3.171, p = 0.014), while showing a protective effect in Caucasians (OR: 0.120, p = 0.024) and a heightened risk in Asians (OR: 7.990, p = 0.007). In small cell lung cancer (SCLC), the A allele conferred protective effects, whereas NSCLC showed increased risk for the AA genotype (OR: 11.375, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The − 308G > A polymorphism has no significant overall relationships but suggests a protective role of the A allele in the Asian subgroup. Conversely, the − 238G > A polymorphism presents a complex risk profile, increasing lung cancer likelihood in Asians while protecting Caucasians. Notably, the AA genotype significantly raises risk for NSCLC, indicating its potential as a risk factor.
Internal validation of modified Mirels’ scoring system for pathologic femur fractures
Authors: Desai Vishal S. , Amendola Richard L. , Mann Kenneth A. , Damron Timothy A.
Published: September 2024

Background

The proximal femur is a common site of bone metastasis. The Mirels’ score is a frequently utilized system to identify patients at risk for pathologic fracture and while it has consistently demonstrated strong sensitivity, specificity has been relatively poor. Our group previously developed a Modified Mirels’ scoring system which demonstrated improved ability to predict cases at risk of fracture in this patient population through modification of the Mirels’ location score. The purpose of the present study is to internally validate this newly developed scoring system on an independent patient series.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed to identify patients who were evaluated for proximal femoral bone lesions. Patients were stratified into one of two groups: 1) those who went on to fracture within 4 months after initial evaluation (Fracture Group) and 2) those who did not fracture within 4 months of initial evaluation (No Fracture Group). Retrospective chart review was performed to assign an Original Mirels’ (OM) Score and Modified Mirels’ (MM) score to each patient at the time of initial evaluation. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, receiver operating curve, and net benefit analyses were performed to determine the predictability of fractures when utilizing both scoring systems.

Results

The use of the MM scoring improved fracture prediction over OM scoring for patients observed over a 4 month follow up based on logistic regression. Decision curve analysis showed that there was a net benefit using the MM score over the OM scoring for a full range of fracture threshold probabilities. Fracture prevalence was similar for current internal validation dataset when compared to the dataset of our index study with a comparable reduction in misclassification of fracture prediction when utilizing the modified scoring system versus the original.

Conclusions

Use of MM scoring was found to improve fracture prediction over OM scoring when tested on an internal validation set of patients with disseminated metastatic lesions to the proximal femur. The improvement in fracture prediction demonstrated in the present study mirrored the results of our index study during which the MM system was developed.
Dual diagnosis of achondroplasia and mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly
Authors: Lyulcheva-Bennett Ekaterina , Kershaw Christopher , Baker Eleanor , Gillies Stuart , McCarthy Emma , Higgs Jenny , Canham Natalie , Hennigan Dawn , Parks Chris , Bennett Daimark
Published: September 2024

Background

Achondroplasia and mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly (MFDM) are rare monogenic, dominant disorders, caused by gain-of-function fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene variants and loss-of-function elongation factor Tu GTP binding domain-containing 2 (EFTUD2) gene variants, respectively. The coexistence of two distinct Mendelian disorders in a single individual is uncommon and challenges the traditional paradigm of a single genetic disorder explaining a patient’s symptoms, opening new avenues for diagnosis and management.

Case Presentation

We present a case of a female patient initially diagnosed with achondroplasia due to a maternally inherited pathogenic FGFR3 variant. She was referred to our genetic department due to her unusually small head circumference and short stature, which were both significantly below the expected range for achondroplasia. Additional features included distinctive facial characteristics, significant speech delay, conductive hearing loss, and epilepsy. Given the complexity of her phenotype, she was recruited to the DDD (Deciphering Developmental Disorders) study and the 100,000 Genomes project for further investigation. Subsequent identification of a complex EFTUD2 intragenic rearrangement confirmed an additional diagnosis of mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly (MFDM).

Conclusion

This report presents the first case of a dual molecular diagnosis of achondroplasia and mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly in the same patient. This case underscores the complexity of genetic diagnoses and the potential for coexistence of multiple genetic syndromes in a single patient. This case expands our understanding of the molecular basis of dual Mendelian disorders and highlights the importance of considering the possibility of dual molecular diagnoses in patients with phenotypic features that are not fully accounted for by their primary diagnosis.
Urgent call for compulsory premarital screening: a crucial step towards thalassemia prevention in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Jubayer , Das Manisha , Munni Ummi Rukaiya
Published: September 2024

Thalassemia poses a major public health concern in Bangladesh with a high prevalence of carriers. However, there is a substantial knowledge gap regarding its epidemiology, clinical aspects, and treatment outcomes. Despite its high prevalence, there is a notable lack of awareness regarding thalassemia in the Bangladeshi population. The absence of precisely validated data impedes a comprehensive understanding of this disease.

Premarital thalassemia screening is reportedly a successful strategy for countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran and has also been proposed for Bangladesh. Mandatory screening coupled with genetic counseling is promising for reducing the prevalence of thalassemia by identifying carriers and providing relevant health education. However, sociocultural barriers, challenges, financial constraints, and health risks associated with prenatal diagnosis and abortion could hinder the success of such programs.

Positive outcomes from other countries underscore the effectiveness of such programs in reducing thalassemia incidence. The early identification of carriers and genetic counseling can significantly reduce the burden of thalassemia. Additionally, the strain on the healthcare system would be eased, and the quality of life of thalassemia patients would be improved.

In conclusion, based on evidence mandatory premarital screening with genetic counseling could be an effective measure to reduce the prevalence of thalassemia in Bangladesh. Leveraging positive attitudes, adopting successful international models, and addressing existing challenges are crucial for the successful implementation of programs that contribute to the overall health and well-being of the country’s population.
A comprehensive map of the aging blood methylome in humans
Authors: Seale Kirsten , Teschendorff Andrew , Reiner Alexander P. , Voisin Sarah , Eynon Nir
Published: September 2024

Background

During aging, the human methylome undergoes both differential and variable shifts, accompanied by increased entropy. The distinction between variably methylated positions (VMPs) and differentially methylated positions (DMPs), their contribution to epigenetic age, and the role of cell type heterogeneity remain unclear.

Results

We conduct a comprehensive analysis of > 32,000 human blood methylomes from 56 datasets (age range = 6–101 years). We find a significant proportion of the blood methylome that is differentially methylated with age (48% DMPs; FDR < 0.005) and variably methylated with age (37% VMPs; FDR < 0.005), with considerable overlap between the two groups (59% of DMPs are VMPs). Bivalent and Polycomb regions become increasingly methylated and divergent between individuals, while quiescent regions lose methylation more uniformly. Both chronological and biological clocks, but not pace-of-aging clocks, show a strong enrichment for CpGs undergoing both mean and variance changes during aging. The accumulation of DMPs shifting towards a methylation fraction of 50% drives the increase in entropy, smoothening the epigenetic landscape. However, approximately a quarter of DMPs exhibit anti-entropic effects, opposing this direction of change. While changes in cell type composition minimally affect DMPs, VMPs and entropy measurements are moderately sensitive to such alterations.

Conclusion

This study represents the largest investigation to date of genome-wide DNA methylation changes and aging in a single tissue, providing valuable insights into primary molecular changes relevant to chronological and biological aging.
Locally advanced rectal cancer in a young adult affected with dyskeratosis congenita (Zinsser–Cole–Engman syndrome): a case report
Authors: Ono Kosuke , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Ono Asuka , Ouchi Mayuko , Kosumi Keisuke , Eto Kojiro , Ida Satoshi , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Baba Yoshifumi , Miyamoto Yuji , Kajihara Ikko , Tanaka Kazuhito , Miyasato Yuko , Baba Hideo
Published: September 2024

Background

Dyskeratosis congenita (DKC), also known as Zinsser–Cole–Engman syndrome, is a progressive genetic disease with a triad of reticulate skin pigmentation, nail dystrophy, and leukoplakia. Approximately 8–10% of patients with DKC develop malignancies, and cases of colorectal cancer with DKC in young people have been reported previously.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old man with DKC since approximately 10 years of age developed fever and lower abdominal discomfort. Diagnostic imaging revealed locally advanced rectal cancer with lymph node metastasis, direct invasion of the prostate, and pelvic abscess due to tumor microperforation (cT4bN2M0 cStage IIIC). Biopsy showed well to moderately differentiated ductal adenocarcinoma. Genetic testing was negative for RAS and BRAF gene mutations, and microsatellite instability (MSI) testing was also negative. After sigmoid colostomy, the patient was treated with total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) with systemic chemotherapy (six courses of FOLFOX + panitumumab) followed by chemoradiation therapy (50.4 Gy with capecitabine). After TNT, the primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes shrank. According to the findings of colonoscopy and magnetic resonance image (MRI), we diagnosed near complete response (near-CR) and decided to follow the patient without surgery by every 3 months re-evaluation. However, 5 months after TNT, tumor regrowth was detected on colonoscopy and imaging, and the patient underwent total pelvic exenteration. He developed paralytic ileus as a postoperative complication, and was discharged on the 38th postoperative day. Pathological examination revealed a residual tumor with invasion of the periprostatic tissue. There was no metastasis in the pararectal and lateral pelvic lymph nodes, but one extramural non-contiguous cancerous extension (tumor deposit) was observed (ypT4bN1cM0 ypStage IIIC). The patient has been free of recurrence for one year after surgery.

Conclusions

DKC often develops into various tumors in the digestive system at an early age; therefore, appropriate surveillance may be required. In addition, considering that cancers in patients with DKC occur at a young age, fertility preservation and survivorship are also important, and adequate explanations and care should be provided to patients before and after treatment.
Ecological aspects of three strains of entomopathogenic nematodes from the department of Lambayeque-Peru
Authors: Adrianzén Jennifher Elizabeth Rodas , Dávila Raúl Samuel Cueva , Tesén Edgar Darwin Pérez , Arias Carmen Patricia Calderón , Cabrera Alexander Chávez
Published: September 2024

Background

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) are used as a biological control agent for different insect pests in agriculture. The genera Heterorhabditis and Steinernema are the most used commercially. For an EPN species to be used as a biological controller, it is necessary to know its ecological aspects, including reproductive potential, movement capacity, and mean lethal concentration (LC50). These aspects were evaluated in three EPN strains isolated in Galleria mellonella larvae collected in the Lambayeque-Peru region, to determine if they are promising as biological controllers. The strains of EPN studied are Heterorhabditis sp. (PC9 strain), H. bacteriophora Poinar (PM10 strain), and Steinernema diaprepesi Nguyen y Duncan (SV19 strain).

Results

Heterorhabditis sp. (PC9 strain) and H. bacteriophora (PM10 strain) had high production of infective juveniles (IJs): 217.750 and 186.800, respectively, while S. diaprepesi (SV19 strain) only reached 84.150 IJs. The movement capacity of Heterorhabditis sp. (PC9 strain) and H. bacteriophora (PM10 strain) reached a depth of 15 cm to parasitize G. mellonella larvae, while S. diaprepesi (SV19 strain) only reached 10 cm. In decreasing order, the LC50 value of S. diaprepesi (SV19 strain), Heterorhabditis sp. (PC9 strain) and H. bacteriophora (PM10 strain) were: 24.03, 13.74, and 8.19 IJs/ml, respectively.

Conclusions

Heterorhabditis sp. PC9 and H. bacteriophora PM10 are promising a biological control agent because they present great production of IJs, great displacement capacity, and high pathogenicity against G. mellonella. Additionally, both strains present a mixed search strategy or seeker-hunter (seeker-browser).
Remembering Andrew Fry (1966–2024)
Authors: Bayliss Richard , Fry Tim , Mahen Robert , Shackleton Sue , Tanaka Kayoko
Published: September 2024

In this article we reflect on the life and work of Andrew Fry, a renowned molecular cell biologist and a cherished member of the scientific community at the University of Leicester, UK, who passed away on 30th April 2024 at the age of 57. His groundbreaking work on the cellular mechanisms of Never in Mitosis gene-A related kinases (Neks) made an indelible mark on the field. Alongside his scientific achievements, Andrew was an exceptional mentor, a thoughtful academic leader and a dependable collaborator. To understand what motivated Andrew, we first need to look into his background.
New Advances on an Old Question: Does Money Matter for Children’s Outcomes?
Authors: Page Marianne E.
Published: September 2024

Family income is a positive predictor of children’s health, human capital, and later-life earnings, but determining the extent to which these associations reflect causal effects is challenging. A recent wave of natural and randomized experiments, together with increased accessibility of large-scale administrative data, are allowing us to gain new perspectives about the importance of families’ monetary resources in the United States and other high-income countries. This review pulls the emerging literature together to provide deeper insights into what we know, and what we don’t know, about the extent to which policies that provide more generous income transfers could make a difference to children’s life chances. My reading of the evidence suggests that policies providing financial resources to economically vulnerable families have the potential to improve children’s outcomes. The magnitude of predicted impacts varies considerably across studies, however, and may be related to specific features of the income-generating event that researchers leverage. (JEL G51, H24, I12, I18, I38, J13, J24)
Temporary Employment in Markets with Frictions
Authors: Boeri Tito , Garibaldi Pietro
Published: September 2024

Temporary employment has spiked in OECD countries over the last 40 years and is now a common feature of their labor market landscape. A large body of empirical literature examines the spread of temporary employment, but no systematic review and interpretation of its findings in light of economic theory exists. This survey aims at filling this gap by interpreting the key empirical results based on the predictions of the macro models in markets with frictions developed to address specific features of temporary employment. Revisions of workhorse models used so far to analyze temporary employment are also suggested. (JEL J22, J31, J41, J81, J83, K31)
Career and Family: Women's Century-Long Journey toward Equity
Authors: Stevenson Betsey
Published: September 2024

Betsey Stevenson of University of Michigan reviews “Career and Family: Women’s Century-Long Journey toward Equity” by Claudia Golden. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Explores the reasons for the persisting gender earnings gap, focusing on women's role in the American economy and how it has transformed over the last century.”
Precarious Ties: Business and the State in Authoritarian Asia
Authors: Jia Ruixue
Published: September 2024

Ruixue Jia of University of California, San Diego reviews “Precarious Ties: Business and the State in Authoritarian Asia” by Meg Rithmire. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Examines trust and financial control at work in creating patterns of state-business relations in Malaysia, Indonesia, and China, exploring the strategies that authoritarian political elites adopt to manage the business class.”
The development of Russian law in the 1940s
Authors: Bogolyubov Syergyey , Pashentsev Dmitriy , Alekseeva Larisa , Vasileva Liya , Gavrilyuk Mariya , Zhukov Dmitriy , Zvonarev Andrey , L'vov Aleksey , Pozdnyakova Elena , Rybushkin Nikolay , Seleznev Vladimir , Skorobogatov Andrey V , Sokolov Aleksandr , Truntsevskiy Yuriy , Uvarov Igor’ Alekseevich , Shul'ga Sergey , Yashchuk Tatiana
Published: September 2024

The monograph reveals the peculiarities of the development of domestic law and legislation in the period of the 1940s. The influence of the Great Patriotic War on legislation is shown. A great place is occupied by the study of such branches of law and legislation, which, in relation to this period, are not always given enough attention: financial, educational, urban planning, environmental protection, etc. Along with legal norms, the practice of their application in wartime emergencies has been studied.
It is recommended to teachers, researchers and practitioners, graduate students, law students.
Do Employees Cheer for Private Equity? The Heterogeneous Effects of Buyouts on Job Quality
Authors: Gornall Will , Gredil Oleg R. , Howell Sabrina T. , Liu Xing , Sockin Jason
Published: September 2024

We show that private equity leveraged buyouts reduce perceived job quality despite not impacting average base pay. This appears to reflect employees bearing more risk. Both job quality and employee incentive pay are more related to firm performance at private equity-owned companies than at public control firms with 1% higher deal rate of return associated with 0.7% more employee incentive pay. Deals with high leverage and employees with worse outside options fuel the declines in job satisfaction after a buyout. Our results highlight how job quality is tied to job security and how ownership affects employees through mechanisms beyond base pay.

This paper was accepted by David Sraer, finance.

Funding: W. Gornall thanks the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Development [Grant 430-2019-00306] for its support and gratefully acknowledges that this research was undertaken, in part, thanks to funding from the Canada Excellence Research Chairs program awarded to Dr. Erik Snowberg in data-intensive methods in economics.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.00951 .
Optimizing Offline Product Design and Online Assortment Policy: Measuring the Relative Impact of Each Decision
Authors: Wang Mengxin , Zhang Heng , Rusmevichientong Paat , Shen Max
Published: September 2024

Revenue management decisions often involve both offline and online decisions. Offline decisions are made first and establish the broad and long-term operational context in which online decisions are frequently and repeatedly made, often in real time. We consider a joint optimization of offline and online decisions. Specifically, we examine a setting in which the offline decision concerns the selection of product-design characteristics (e.g., price, capacity, return eligibility, and other characteristics) and the online decision concerns the dynamic assortment optimization over a selling season. Our formulation has many applications, including optimizing products’ return eligibility and determining product discounts, and a key feature of our model is its explicit consideration of complex return dynamics and accompanying financial implications. We formulate an optimization problem that combines the impact of both offline and online decisions on the expected revenue. To determine the product design, we reformulate the choice-based deterministic linear program, solve its continuous relaxation, and round the resulting solution. Using value function approximations enables us to obtain a dynamic assortment policy whose expected revenue is at least a constant fraction of the choice-based deterministic linear program. Combining these two results, we show that our approach provides an approximate solution to the joint optimization problem with performance guarantees. Numerical experiments based on real transaction data from a major U.S. retailer show that our method achieves 95%–97% effectiveness, an advantage of up to 18% over methods that disregard the interplay between offline and online decisions. This framework also yields a systematic quantitative measure of the relative importance of both offline and online decisions. Based on this measure, numerical experiments highlight the crucial role of product design, accounting for 94% and 85% of the observed variation in effectiveness across various methods in applications involving volume discount and return eligibility, respectively.

This paper was accepted by Victor Martinez de Albeniz, operations management.

Funding: This work was supported by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation [Grant 2226901].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01167 .
Community nursing and the digital technology revolution: the past, present and future
Authors: Ramadan Francesca
Published: September 2024

While very much in its infancy in terms of becoming an established tool, the use of digital technology in community nursing is steadily growing, despite the persistent barriers to, and challenges encountered in its uptake and implementation. The mobile nature and high workload of a community nurse's daily practice should facilitate the rapid uptake of time-saving technology. However, there are indications that technology may not be the panacea it was originally proclaimed to be. Francesca Ramadan elaborates on the past and present applications of digital technology in community nursing and delves into the principles that should shape the future potential of tools such as artificial intelligence, automation technologies and clinical decision support systems.
An overview of manual lymphatic drainage
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: September 2024

Manual lymphatic drainage is an advanced therapy that enhances the movement of lymph via a gentle form of massage. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer provides an overview of manual lymphatic drainage as a treatment for lymphoedema, and summarises the latest research in the area.
Impact of Transforaminal Epidural Neuroplasty and Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation of Medial Branch on Pain Relief and Quality of Life in a Patient with Chronic Low Back Pain and Steppage Gait: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Manipal Hospital, Panaji, Goa, India,, Lotliker Sasmit Dipak , Verma Sidharth ,   Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, DY Patil University, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Bhalla Akhil ,   Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, FIPM, FIAPM, Adesh Medical College, Shahbad, Haryana, India,, Mekewar Sanjog ,   Department of Interventional Pain Medicine, Jeevisha Pain Clinic, Pune, Maharashtra, India,, Sharma Aanchal ,   Department of Pain and Palliative Care, BLK MAX Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, India,, Shah Maitri ,   Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, Acme Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for loss of productivity. Herniated lumbar discs can often cause muscle weakness, reduced motor function, and change in walking capacity including foot drop and gait abnormalities like steppage gait. Case Report: Here, we present the case report of a 52-year-old shopkeeper who had been suffering from low back pain for 5 years along with a steppage gait since childhood, which had grossly affected his business as well as his quality of life. The patient did not want a surgical procedure. Discussion: Given these conditions, we opined that minimally invasive pain and spine intervention procedures like transforaminal epidural neuroplasty along with cooled radiofrequency ablation of medial branches can be effective in managing back pain as well as improving the quality of life. Keywords: Global perceived effect, herniation, low back pain, lumbar disc, quality of life, radiofrequency ablation, steppage gait, transforaminal epidural.
Compartment Syndrome Following Intramedullary Nailing of the Tibia: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, IBN EL JAZZAR University Hospital, Kairouan, Tunisia,, Zied Mansi , Marouene Berriri ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, IBN EL JAZZAR University Hospital, Kairouan, Tunisia,, Islem Chneti ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, IBN EL JAZZAR University Hospital, Kairouan, Tunisia,, Wajdi Chermiti ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sahloul University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia,, Ali Haggui ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital of Kasserine, Kasserine, Tunisia,, Bacem Zaidi ,   Department of Surgery, IBN EL JAZZAR University Hospital, Kairouan, Tunisia.
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Compartment syndrome as a complication during intramedullary nailing of closed tibia fractures was first documented as early as 1980. Case Report: We report a case of a 19-year-old young man victim of a road accident (motorcycle accident) causing an uncomplicated closed fracture of 2 bones of the left leg. The patient underwent centromedullary nailing of the tibia. The evolution was marked by the early onset of an acute and serious compartment syndrome. Conclusion: The first symptom of compartment syndrome is pain regardless of the severity of the trauma. The diagnosis is clinical and is generally confirmed by measuring the pressure in the muscle compartment. The treatment is fasciotomy. Keywords: Compartment syndrome, leg, nailing tibia, fasciotomy.
Management of Non-Union Distal Femur Fracture with Augmentation Nail-Plate Construct: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Khan Mohammad Jesan , Firoz M Ahsan ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Anwer Adnan ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Agrawal Pranjal ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Rashid Mamoon ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Asif Areeb ,   Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Non-union fractures of the distal femur pose significant challenges in orthopedic surgery, often requiring revision procedures to achieve successful bone healing. In cases where the initial implant has failed, innovative solutions are necessary to promote bone union and functional recovery. Case Report: We present a case of a non-union distal femur fracture in a 22-year-old male patient, with a broken implant in situ. The patient had previously undergone internal fixation with a locking plate, which subsequently failed to promote bone healing. The patient was reoperated using a supracondylar nail and augmented with a distal femur locking plate to address the non-union. The combination of the supracondylar nail and distal femur locking plate successfully provided stability to the fracture site, promoting bone union and enabling functional recovery. Radiographic evidence and clinical assessment demonstrated excellent healing progress. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of individualized treatment for non-union distal femur fractures, especially when prior implant failure occurs. The combined approach of a supracondylar nail and distal femur locking plate can be a valuable option in addressing complex non-union fractures, achieving stable fixation, and facilitating successful bone healing. Keywords: Non-union fracture distal femur, broken implant, supracondylar nail, locking plate, revision surgery.