bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility to Attentional Capture by Target-Matching Distractors Predicts High Visual Working Memory Capacity
Authors: Zhong Chupeng , Qu Zhe , Yang Nan , Sun Mingze , Wang Yajie , Ding Yulong
Published: October 2024

Recent event-related potential (ERP) studies showed that individuals with low visual working memory (VWM) capacity are more susceptible to salience-driven attentional capture than high-capacity individuals are, with the latter being able to proactively suppress salient but irrelevant distractors. However, it remains unclear whether and how contingent attentional capture by distractors that possess a task-relevant (target) feature is related to VWM capacity. Here, we adopted a central focused-attention task that contained peripheral target-matching distractors to investigate this issue ( N = 51 adults). Surprisingly, we revealed that target-matching distractors elicited both a larger N2-posterior-contralateral (N2pc) and a larger post-N2pc distractor positivity (PD) component in high-capacity individuals than in low-capacity ones, meaning that high-capacity individuals are less able to ignore such distractors initially, though they could call on a stronger reactive suppression mechanism afterward. These findings illustrate that high-capacity individuals are more (rather than less or equally) susceptible to contingent attention capture compared with low-capacity ones.
Fitting comfortably together: Doing and imagining gender and sexuality in personal assistance
Authors: Humphrey Harvey , Coleman-Fountain Edmund , Abbott David , Toft Alex
Published: October 2024

This article reports a UK study in which 12 young disabled adults took part in in-depth qualitative interviews that explored how gender and sexuality mattered for their personal assistance. We draw on queer, trans, and disabled feminist research and theory to discuss the ways that genders and sexualities are part of the decisions that young disabled adults make when arranging and managing their personal support, from drafting support plans and recruitment adverts to working out how to share personal space and display the body. We discuss how gender and sexuality are part of the interactions that young disabled adults imagine as necessary for them and their personal assistants (PAs) to be able to work together. The article also offers a creative approach to representing the data. Composed from young disabled adults’ words following a grounded theory analysis of the data, vignettes were developed to respond to ethical challenges of representing the stories of disabled queer, trans, and nonbinary young people. The article ends by discussing the ethical work of enabling gendered and sexual lives through personal assistance. The project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) School for Social Care.
Evaluating the complex systems approach to persisting post-concussion symptoms
Authors: Nielsen Kristopher , Faulkner Josh
Published: October 2024

Persisting post-concussion symptoms (PPCS) refers to a heterogenous cluster of difficulties experienced by a significant proportion of individuals following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Innovative developments by Kenzie et al. suggest that PPCS may be understood as a complex dynamical system, with persisting symptoms being maintained by interacting factors across the brain, experience, and social environment. This paper offers a conceptual and theoretical evaluation of Kenzie et al.’s model, based on a broad set of appraisal criteria drawn from the philosophy of science. Kenzie et al.’s model is found to have several strengths. Areas for improvement highlighted include recognising the role of bodily factors outside the brain, improving the specificity and perceived importance of psychological and contextual factors, and managing the complexity of the model. Four suggestions are then made for continued development of a complex systems approach to PPCS. These include drawing on an enactive understanding of human functioning, utilising the notion of a “scientific phenomenon” to improve specificity, making riskier psycho-social hypotheses, and developing component models targeted at clinical phenomena.
Interaction of environmental change and social evolution in pre-industrial East Asia: An introduction to the special issue
Authors: Ma Minmin , Hou Juzhi
Published: October 2024

An understanding of environmental change and human adaptation across different times and spaces is significant for the study of the interaction between humans and the environment. This understanding can provide vital information for coping effectively with rapid changes in climate. It is imperative that transdisciplinary research be conducted to explore integrated approaches to detecting the relationship between environmental change and social evolution across different times and spaces. Therefore, this Special Issue aims to break down the disciplinary boundaries and present the current research debate on how to correlate different climate, environmental, and social changes and explain the human past. The papers in the Special Issue provide new data and views on the interaction between environmental changes and social evolution.
Transformational Leadership as a Catalyst for Entrepreneurial Success: An Evidence from Empirical Research
Authors: Sukhadeve Varsha S. , Tarar Ashish Manohar
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study explores how transformational leadership affects entrepreneurial success and identifies key mechanisms.

Originality

It bridges the gap between existing literature on transformational leadership and entrepreneurial success by providing empirical insights.

Methodology

A mixed-methods approach using surveys and case studies from 100 entrepreneurs, analysed with structural equation modelling (SEM) and interviews.

Future Scope

Future research could assess the long-term effects of transformational leadership on entrepreneurial success and explore moderating factors like industry type and cultural context.

Implications

Findings show transformational leadership enhances entrepreneurial success through innovation and motivation, highlighting its importance for business growth. It suggests incorporating these skills into entrepreneurship programmes.

Conclusion

Transformational leadership is vital for entrepreneurial success, aiding in navigating challenges and achieving sustainable growth.
Heterogeneous Impacts of Corporate Governance and Intellectual Capital on Audit Quality: Evidence from India Employing Quantile Regression Approach
Authors: Maji Santi Gopal , Tiwari Reshma Kumari
Published: October 2024

High audit quality signals greater transparency and credibility of corporate reporting and actions. The study aims to examine the heterogeneous impact of corporate governance attributes and intellectual capital on audit quality, which has remained unexplored in the empirical literature. The study consists of randomly selected 100 non-financial firms from the list of Bombay Stock Exchange 500 index for 2017–2021. We proxied audit quality using audit fees and measured intellectual capital efficiency using the value-added intellectual coefficient methodology. Similarly, corporate governance attributes are represented by role duality, promoter shareholding, board gender diversity, and audit committee independence. A simultaneous quantile regression model at eight different quantiles of audit quality has been adopted. The results evince that the impacts of various corporate governance variables are heterogeneous on audit quality. Role duality and promoter shareholding negatively influence audit quality, while board gender diversity and audit committee independence reveal a positive impact. However, the impact is more pronounced in all cases at the upper locations of the conditional distribution of audit quality. Regarding intellectual capital efficiency, the findings exhibit a negative impact up to the 0.7 quantile and a positive impact thereafter. Thus, given the heterogeneous impact of corporate governance on audit quality, policymakers should not adopt homogeneous corporate governance policies.
Consumers’ Green Energy Buying Behaviour and Intention: A Literature Review
Authors: Kumar Ganesh , Nayak Jogendra Kumar
Published: October 2024

Researchers extensively believe that consumer behaviour is multifaceted and depends on several factors, as well as that no single model or theory is sufficient to provide a holistic view. Thus, this review paper discusses the literature of 76 peer-reviewed articles published between 2011 and 2020 to gain a broader understanding of multifaceted factors influencing consumers’ green energy buying behaviour. The study also reviews working papers and third-party reports to provide more authentic information about the adoption of green energy technologies. Various online databases, such as SCOPUS, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, Science Direct, ProQuest, Taylor and Francis Online and EBSCO, have been used to retrieve the related literature. This study categorizes the factors affecting green energy buying behaviour into two parts: individual motivational factors and contextual factors. Based on the relative importance of the reviewed factors, marketers and policymakers can execute appropriate promotional practices to enhance consumers’ green energy consumption behaviour. The effective implementation of intervention strategies relating to these factors can simplify the growth of the green power market, specifically in developing countries. The review identifies some research gaps in the green energy literature.
Research Progress of Traditional Drug Therapies for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma by the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Fang Qiong , Wang Junjie , Wu Tingting , Cai Yining , Wang Huimin , Cai Jitang
Published: October 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an uncommon type of epithelial carcinoma, characterized by unique features and a higher prevalence in certain populations. Traditional medicines are commonly employed in the treatment of various cancers, including NPC. Early-stage NPC patients who undergo radiotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy can experience significant improvements in clinical outcomes; however, these treatments often come with substantial side effects. Given that NPC is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage, there is a significant likelihood of local recurrence, distant metastasis, and drug resistance, which limits treatment options and results in poor clinical outcomes. Consequently, the development of highly active antitumor drugs with minimal side effects has become a major focus in current cancer research.

Purpose

This study aims to summarize the current clinical treatments for NPC and explore the role of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway in NPC. Additionally, it reviews the effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compounds and monomers on NPC through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Methods

The main keywords chosen for this study were “Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)”, “nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC),” “natural plant,” and “PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.” We conducted a comprehensive literature search using multiple online databases, including CNKI, Web of Science, and PubMed, along with other publication resources.

Results

The findings suggest that current first-line treatments for NPC fall short of fully addressing clinical needs. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is crucial in the development and progression of NPC. Several components of TCM have been shown to impact NPC development and progression through the modulation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Conclusion

The regulatory mechanisms of NPC involve multiple signaling systems, with the PI3K/Akt pathway identified as a critical mechanism for effective modulation of the disease. This review highlights traditional medicines that target the PI3K/Akt pathway, demonstrating promising anti-NPC effects by inhibiting cell growth, inducing apoptosis, and modulating the PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. The review concludes by underscoring the potential of the PI3K/Akt pathway as a therapeutic target for NPC and the importance of continued research to optimize treatment strategies.
The Transport Profile and Outcomes of Sick Outborn Neonates Admitted to Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttar Pradesh: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Jaiswal Rahul , Tanigasalam Vasanthan , Gupta Girish
Published: October 2024

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the transport profile and prevalence of mortality among outborn neonates. The secondary objective was to compare the morbidity characteristics at admission with mortality rates.

Methods

All outborn neonates consecutively admitted during the study period were included. The study detailed the neonatal transport services level, clinical features at admission, and the calculation of the Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology with Perinatal Extension (SNAPPEII) score, a widely used tool to predict neonatal mortality based on various clinical and physiological parameters. Mortality rates were then compared with the morbidity characteristics at admission.

Results

A total of 59 neonates were enrolled, with the primary reason for referral being sepsis (25, 42%). Most neonates (40, 68%) were transported in private ambulances. A mortality rate of 6 (10%) was observed, attributed to complications of sepsis. Notably, 2 neonates expired within 12 hours of admission, and 5 had a SNAPPEII score exceeding 40. Furthermore, shock because of multiple reasons (24, 41%) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (10, 17%) were associated ( P < .05) with neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

The prevalence of mortality among outborn neonates, as revealed by this study, is 10%. The association of shock (because of hypothermia, sepsis, hypoglycaemia, prematurity, etc), DIC, and a SNAPPEII score exceeding 40 at admission with mortality highlight the need for further research and the development of targeted interventions.
The Longitudinal Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern Among Gram-negative Bacteria Causing Neonatal Sepsis—From an Eastern Indian Tertiary Care Facility
Authors: Pradhan Deepti Damayanty , Sahoo Swaranjika , Hasa Vetsa Snigdha , Pugalia Rishabh , Panda Santosh Kumar
Published: October 2024

The trend of antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated gram-negative bacteria (GNB) causing neonatal sepsis over a span of six years in a tertiary care neonatal unit in eastern India is reported. The GNB microorganism profile had not changed, but the sensitivity to commonly prescribed higher antimicrobial piperacillin and tazobactam (PIP/TZ) (27.7%-11.6%, p = .013), fluoroquinolone (64%-23.3%, p = .001) had significantly declined. The prevalence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) GNB had increased from 40% to 60%. The sensitivity pattern of GNB for various combinations of empirical antimicrobials is also presented.
Use of tourniquet in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Is it truly necessary? A prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Valli Federico , Di Feo Fabrizio , Marchetti Pietro , Ursino Nicola
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To examine the effects of tourniquet use in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in terms of (1) intraoperative visualization, (2) surgical time, (3) consumption of sterile saline, and (4) postoperative pain.

Methods

In this prospective randomized clinical trial, patients were assigned to Tourniquet Group or No Tourniquet treatment groups. The primary outcomes were intraoperative visualization, with scores ranging from 0 to 10 (0 = no visibility; 10 = clear and perfect display), surgical time, and the consumption of sterile saline. The secondary aim was to measure postoperative pain (24 h after surgery) with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain.

Results

A total of 71 patients were included in the No Tourniquet group, and 75 were included in the Tourniquet group, with mean ages of 26.73 ± 8.05 years and 26.95 ± 10.11 years, respectively ( p = .88). In the No Tourniquet group, 37 concomitant meniscal lesions were treated, whereas in the Tourniquet group, 38 ( p = .99) were treated. The mean surgical times were 51.07 ± 6.90 and 50.03 ± 7.62 ( p = .325), respectively, while the mean amount of saline consumed was 6.17 ± 1.18 L versus 5.89 ± 1.23 L ( p = .217). Both groups achieved optimal visualization, with a sum of all surgical steps of 65.49 ± 1.86 for the no tourniquet group and 65.39 ± 1.88 for the Tourniquet group ( p = .732). Postoperative pain was significantly lower in the No Tourniquet group (VAS score: 2.82 ± 1.33 vs 5.80 ± 1.22).

Conclusions

Tourniquet use during ACL reconstruction does not improve intraoperative visualization and does not reduce surgical time but leads to greater postoperative pain with a risk of well-known tourniquet-related complications.

Level of evidence

Level I – Randomized clinical trial.
Emotional Labor in Dementia Research
Authors: Quinn Catherine , Hillman Alexandra , Barbosa Ana , Toms Gill
Published: October 2024

The concept of emotional labor refers to the regulation and management of emotions within the workplace. This labor may involve a dissonance between the emotions that are internally felt and the emotions that can be externally expressed. The concept of emotional labor can be applied to the emotional management that occurs during research often when directly interacting with research participants. These emotions can have a positive role in building rapport and enabling the researcher to understand the participant’s world. But equally, it can lead to emotional strain and potentially have a negative impact on researcher well-being. In this paper, we apply the concept of emotional labor to dementia research. While there has been attention paid to ethical issues in dementia research, this has often focused on the impact on the participant and not the researcher. Within this paper, we first draw on the literature to provide an overview of the role of emotional labor in the research context. Within the literature, we identify nine research scenarios where emotional labor might occur within dementia research. We then present three case studies illuminating our experiences of emotional labor within dementia research. These case studies provide illustrative examples of some of the research scenarios identified in the literature. To synthesize the learning from the literature and our case studies, we propose peer-critiqued recommendations for managing emotional labor in dementia research. We conclude by considering the implications for other health researchers.
“Confident, Supportive, and Capable”: A Retrospective Analysis of an Outdoor Orientation Program
Authors: O’Connell Timothy S. , Lathrop Anna H. , Pilato Kelly A.
Published: October 2024

Background: Initial effects of participation in outdoor orientation programs (OOPs) have been well-documented. However, there are few studies that examine longitudinal outcomes. Purpose: This study explored the long-term effects of engaging in an OOP. Methodology/Approach: This study employed the Most Significant Change technique and implemented a retrospective qualitative approach to understand the meaningful lessons participants learned as well as long-term outcomes they perceived as being important today. Alumni from an OOP (both participants and leaders) were questioned using semistructured interviews. Thematic analyses, using a constant comparison data analysis method, included open coding, focused coding, and axial coding. Findings/Conclusions: Major themes that emerged included understanding self, building community, and belonging to nature. Participants reported long-term impacts related to coping, stress relief, resiliency and thriving, relationship skills, sense of community, and environmental appreciation. The overarching theme of health and well-being was described as a long-term impact by participants. Implications: Results provide confirmation of positive long-term effects of OOPs and outdoor expeditions. Researchers and practitioners can use these results to better market programs to potential participants and parents, demonstrate the efficacy of OOPs to stakeholder groups, and inform staff training and program curricula.
Association of Extraosseous Arterial Diameter With Talar Dome Osteochondral Lesions
Authors: Aslan Lercan , Ghandour Samir , Ashkani-Esfahani Soheil , Gedik Cemil Cihad , Guss Daniel , Waryasz Gregory , Bejarano-Pineda Lorena , DiGiovanni Christopher W. , Kwon John Y.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Etiology of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) is multifactorial and may develop from trauma, genetics, or hypovascularity. The talar dome is supplied by the posterior tibial artery (PTA) and, to a lesser degree, the sinus tarsi artery (STA). The role of talar dome hypovascularity on OLT remains poorly studied. We aimed to determine any relationship between the diameter of PTA (dPTA) and STA (dSTA) and the incidence and characteristics of talus OLT.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 77 patients with OLT and 77 subjects as a matched control group (age range: 30-40 years). Using magnetic resonance imaging, the dPTA was measured 1 cm above the tibial plafond, at the plafond, and at the level of medial malleolar tip. Likewise, dSTA was measured at the level of the talar neck. The area, volume, depth, localization, and surgical intervention for OLT were recorded as well.

Results:

The study group had significantly smaller dPTA at all 3 levels (1.05 ± 0.22 mm, 0.99 ± 0.18 mm, 0.98 ± 0.31 mm, proximal to distal, respectively) compared with controls (1.25 ± 0.23 mm, 1.20 ± 0.22 mm, 1.14 ± 0.18 mm, respectively) ( P < .001). The dSTA was also significantly smaller in the study group compared with the control group (0.5 ± 0.11 mm vs 0.57 ± 0.08 mm, respectively; P = .001). The mean dPTA (of all 3 levels) cutoff value for predicting the occurrence of OLT was 1.1 mm with 74% sensitivity and 75% specificity. A significant inverse correlation was observed between OLT area and arterial diameters ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Smaller luminal dPTA and dSTA appear to be associated with higher incidence of OLT, with defect size inversely correlated to arterial diameter.
Novel frequency-domain Dixon approach for analyzing the stability range of the Rijke tube
Authors: An Meiyi , Du Baozhu
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the crucial issue of thermoacoustic instability, an undesirable phenomenon that severely impacts combustion chambers. The mathematical dynamic model of the Rijke tube has been reassessed as a linear time-invariant multi-time-delay system (LTI-MTDS). To analyze its stability characteristics, a precise approximation of the quasi-polynomial was performed. Subsequently, a new theoretical framework based on the Dixon discriminant method was established to derive the critical frequency range. The curves that represent the stability transition points are clearly depicted through comprehensive frequency scanning. This method reveals important information about the stable operating regions of the tube within the parameter space, including delays and geometric dimensions.
Modified monitoring of abiraterone acetate-induced hepatotoxicity in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Mishra Sweta , Spencer Hannah , Kelly Katherine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Abiraterone is a standard treatment for prostate cancer and is a preferred treatment option at the Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System (VANTXHCS) due to its formulation, cost, and overall tolerability. In the combined data of five randomized controlled trials, grade 3 and 4 liver enzyme increases were reported in 6% of patients, most commonly within the first three months of initiating abiraterone. Therefore, the prescribing information recommends measuring serum transaminases and bilirubin levels (liver function tests, LFTs) every two weeks for the first three months of treatment and monthly thereafter. VANTXHCS utilizes a modified monitoring approach in which LFTs are evaluated two weeks after initiating abiraterone and less frequently thereafter. The purpose of this study is to assess if the modified monitoring approach leads to an increase in incidence and/or severity of abiraterone-induced hepatotoxicity.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted within the VANTXHCS electronic record system to include adult patients diagnosed with prostate cancer who initiated abiraterone between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2022. Patients were excluded if they were enrolled in clinical trials or were receiving care from an outside provider due to lack of accessible laboratory data. The primary outcome was to assess the incidence and severity of LFT elevations up to six months after initiation. Select secondary outcomes include time to LFT elevation, management of LFT elevation, and incidence and severity of LFT elevation up to 12 months after initiation.

Results

A total of 274 patients were included in the analysis, of which 72 (26.3%) experienced any grade LFT elevations during the 6-month period. Of those with LFT elevations, grade 1 elevations occurred in 48 (17.5%) patients, grade 2 in 20 (7.3%) patients, grade 3 in 3 (1.1%) patients, and grade 4 in 1 (0.4%) patient. The median time to detecting LFT elevations was 8 (4–16) weeks. The median time to resolution was 4 (3–7) weeks. Seventy-five percent of the patients with LFT elevations within 6 months of therapy were monitored without any interruptions in abiraterone therapy.

Conclusion

The current findings suggest that the modified monitoring approach to abiraterone does not result in an increase in incidence and/or severity of hepatotoxicity compared to the previously published clinical trial data. The modified monitoring approach may have a beneficial impact on healthcare resources.
Young Adults With Achondroplasia, Self-Esteem, and Wellbeing: Examining the Impact of Dance Sessions and Augmented Dance Sessions
Authors: Pandya Samta P.
Published: October 2024

Background: Achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, is a lifelong condition, and impacted persons often face issues of health and wellbeing. For this cohort, the effectiveness of arts-based programs, such as dance or augmented dance sessions, needs to be studied. Methods: For this nonequivalent comparison group quasi-experimental study, the impacts of dance sessions and augmented dance sessions (comprising added spiritual content), both delivered online, on the self-esteem and wellbeing outcomes of young adults with achondroplasia were compared. Results: Participants of the augmented dance sessions reported significant improvements on self-esteem and wellbeing outcomes. The comparison cohort who did the dance sessions alone did not have any significant post-test outcome score changes. Gender, education, and program compliance were significant predictors of post-test outcome score changes of the intervention group. Discriminant analyses suggested that young adult females, those with higher formal education (postgraduate or vocational degrees) and whose program compliance was higher (>50% augmented dance sessions attended and corresponding homework sessions completed), gained most. Conclusions: With an added component of meditation, dance can be a creative community-based intervention that nurses may use in working with young adults with achondroplasia. Augmented dance sessions with added spiritual content are thus impactful for diverse participants.
Quasi-periodic asymptotic homogenization in the framework of strain gradient mechanics
Authors: Ganghoffer J-F , Alavi SE
Published: October 2024

We develop in this contribution a theory for quasi-periodic media, assuming that the initial non-periodic geometry can be mapped to a periodic parent domain. The asymptotic homogenization method is employed to compute the quasi-periodic elastic properties of such quasi-periodic continuous media. We consider situations with a fast grading of the geometry or topology across neighbouring unit cells, which entail mutual interactions between unit cells requiring the incorporation of higher-order terms into the homogenized constitutive law, reflected in a strain gradient effective model. The theoretical background underlying quasi-periodic asymptotic homogenization in the context of linearized anisotropic elasticity is exposed in the framework of strain gradient mechanics. Different methodologies for evaluating the tensors of effective quasi-periodic properties are developed, based on either solving the unit cell problems in the periodic domain or in the quasi-periodic domain to expand the average microscopic energy, leading then to the identification of the tensors of effective moduli. A simple strategy consists of ignoring the spatial variation of the microscopic fields within the unit cell, directly mapping the macroscopic kinematic strain tensor to the quasi-periodic unit cell. The situation of a one-dimensional quasi-periodically repeated two-phase unit cell within a bar proves convenient to exemplify the different homogenization strategies; moreover, it proves able to deliver closed-form expressions of both Cauchy and strain gradient effective tensile moduli versus the microstructural parameters.
Early onset colorectal cancer, not just the age: Data from a large health organization
Authors: Abu-Freha Naim , Beshara Amani , Winberg Jordan , Weissmann Sarah , Cohen Bracha , Kopelman Yael , Lerner Zlata , Gordon Michal
Published: October 2024

Early onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) is increasing. We investigated the risk factors for ER-CRC compared to late onset colorectal cancer (LO-CRC). CRC patients between the years 1999 and 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. Data regarding demographics, comorbidities, malignancies, and mortality were collected. Data were retrieved using the MdClone platform from a large Health Maintenance Organization. The cohort was subdivided into EO-CRC (age ≤ 50 years) and LO-CRC (age ≥ 51 years) groups. 61,679 patients diagnosed with CRC were included in our analysis, 30,456 (49.4%) males, and 4891 (7.9%) Arabs, with an average age at diagnosis of 70.1 ± 13.1 years. 5561 (9%) patients were included in the EO-CRC group. Over the last decades, higher rates of EO-CRC were diagnosed compared to the previous decade, 9.8% vs 8.3%, p < 0.001. A higher percentage of EO-CRC patients were females (52.8% vs 50.4%), had a family history of CRC (9.9% vs 5.5%), were Arabs (18.7% vs 6.9%), and were smokers (32.7% vs 30.2%) compared to LO-CRC patients. Significantly lower rates of comorbidities such as ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, and iron deficiency anemia were found among EO-CRC patients, with a lower all-cause mortality (27.7% vs 63.1%, p < 0.001). 348 (6.3%) of the EO-CRC patients had another Lynch-related cancer until age 50 years compared to 45 (0.1%) at the LO-CRC. Young individuals with increased risk for CRC need special consideration and should be referred early for screening and endoscopic investigation, particularly those with a family history of CRC, smokers, and those of Arab ethnicity.
PaRSEC: Scalability, flexibility, and hybrid architecture support for task-based applications in ECP
Authors: Bouteiller Aurelien , Herault Thomas , Cao Qinglei , Schuchart Joseph , Bosilca George
Published: October 2024

This paper highlights the most significant enhancements made to PaRSEC, a scalable task-based runtime system designed for hybrid machines, during the Exascale Computing Project (ECP). The enhancements focus on expanding the capabilities of PaRSEC to address the evolving landscape of parallel computing. Notable achievements include the integration of support for three major types of accelerators (NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel GPUs), the refinement and increased flexibility of the communication subsystem, and the introduction of new programming interfaces tailored for irregular applications. Additionally, the project resulted in the development of powerful debugging and performance analysis tools aimed at assisting users in understanding and optimizing their applications. We present a comprehensive demonstration of these advancements through a series of benchmarks and applications within ECP and beyond, thereby showcasing the enhanced capabilities of PaRSEC across the diverse architectures within the ECP, providing valuable insights into the runtime system’s adaptability and performance across varied computing environments.
Perianaesthetic complications in cats undergoing MRI of the brain
Authors: Daly Erica , Cardy Thomas J , McFadzean William , Taylor-Brown Frances E
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to describe perianaesthetic complications in cats undergoing MRI of the brain and investigate if previously reported factors for anaesthetic mortality in cats are associated with an increased risk of anaesthetic complications in this population.

Methods

Records were reviewed of all cats that underwent MRI of the brain in a private referral veterinary hospital between June 2020 and January 2023. Cats that underwent additional procedures other than cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) sampling during the same general anaesthetic (GA) were excluded from the data set. Data were then collected regarding the signalment, presenting clinical signs, physical and neurological examination, GA protocol, complications experienced under GA and known survival time. Selected data were then compared between cats with an intracranial lesion and those without.

Results

A total of 43 cats were included in the study. In total, 41 cats experienced a perianaesthetic complication, which were subclassified as mild (n = 39) and severe (n = 15). Cats with intracranial lesions were more likely to experience severe perianaesthetic complications (odds ratio [OR] 12.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.7–56.7; P <0.001), to receive mannitol under GA (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.2–2.7; P <0.001) and to experience a delayed extubation (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.0–1.6; P <0.014) than those without intracranial lesions. Cats with intracranial lesions were more likely to have an abnormal neurological examination than those without intracranial lesions (OR 42.1; 95% CI 8.8–228.6; P <0.001).

Conclusions and relevance

Cats that experienced perianaesthetic complications were more likely to have an intracranial lesion. Abnormal mentation on neurological examination was the best indicator of the likelihood of the cat experiencing perianaesthetic complications. Previously reported risk factors for anaesthetic mortality were not found to be associated with increased risk of anaesthetic complications in this population.
Nitrogen and Soil Moisture Optimization for Tomato Crops in Semi-Arid Areas of Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Abera , Wondimu Tatek , Tezera Ketema , Ashemi Gebeyehu , Worku Tigist , Gurms Aynalem
Published: October 2024

The productivity and quality of tomato crops are influenced by nutrient management and soil moisture levels. A study was conducted in Melkassa to find the best nitrogen fertilizer rate and soil moisture level for tomato crops. The experiment employed a split-plot design and was replicated three times. The combined impact of soil moisture and nitrogen levels greatly affects the height, branch count, fruit size, fruit length, marketable yield of tomatoes, tomato fruit quality, nitrogen use efficiency and water use efficiency ( p < .05). The optimal combination of 75% ETc and 230 kg/ha resulted in the tallest tomato plant height and the highest branch number. The highest diameter and length of tomato fruits were obtained when 75% ETc and 184 kg/ha were combined. The highest marketable tomato yields were achieved by the interaction of 75% ETc and 184 kg/ha N. Applying 50% ETc with 184 and 138 kg/ha resulted in higher WUE. Interaction of 92 kg/h and soil moisture at all levels results in the maximum AUE. The maximum PFP obtained from 138 and 184 kg/ha with no significant difference. Excessive nitrogen rates (>184 kg/ha) did not increase tomato yield and WUE except for plant height and branch number. In general, the application of 75% ETc and 138 to 184 kg/ha of nitrogen is optimal for tomato production considering the measured parameter to improve water use efficiency and nutrient management in arid and semi-arid environment. The results gave valuable information and direction for the use of organic nitrogen and water in tomato production.
Utility of Circulating Tumor DNA Assay in Identifying Mutations and Guiding Matched Targeted Therapy in Lung Cancers
Authors: Li Kun , Zhang Nana , Xu Bing , Liu Zichen , Zhao Dan , Dong Yujie , Mu Jing , Lin Haifeng , Shan Guangyu , Gao Sihang , Yu Bo , Pan Xiaoxi , Wang Yanrong , Zhang Dongxing , Che Nanying , Ji Xiaoyong
Published: October 2024

Background:

Tumor genomic profiling has a significant impact on the selection of targeted therapy. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a noninvasive, and reproducible assay compared with tissue biopsy. We aimed to evaluate its utility in identifying mutations and guiding targeted therapy for lung cancer.

Methods:

A total of 173 lung cancer patients underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS) using a targeted enrichment panel covering 20 lung cancer-related genes. The performance of the ctDNA NGS assay in identifying genetic mutations or alterations was compared with tissue biopsy and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The treatment response to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) therapies based on the ctDNA assay results was also assessed.

Results:

The ctDNA was detected in 61.85% of patients. Tissue mutations were detected in paired ctDNA in 38.57% of cases, while ctDNA mutations were detected in paired tissues in 89.1% of cases. The ctDNA increased the number of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who received NCCN-recommended genetic testing by 12%. The concordance between ddPCR and ctDNA was relatively high reaching 99.43%. EGFR T790M/C797S c.G2390C and EGFR T790M/C797S c.T2389A were detected in tissue and ctDNA, respectively, in patient 01015. Moreover, ctDNA assay identified the EGFR T790M mutation, which was missed by tissue biopsy in patient 01149, who developed drug resistance after 1 year of EGFR-TKI therapy. Of the 17 patients who received EGFR-TKI targeted therapies based on the ctDNA NGS results, 12 patients achieved a partial response and two patients had stable disease.

Conclusions:

The results demonstrated that the ctDNA assay could partially overcome tumor heterogeneity in detecting mutations and provide complementary information on tumor genomic profiles. Moreover, the presence of EGFR mutations in ctDNA could offer valuable guidance for selecting appropriate EGFR-TKI treatment for advanced lung cancer patients. However, it is important to note that the ctDNA NGS assay has certain limitations in fully identifying all genomic alterations present in the tumor.
Dendritic Cells Loaded With Heat Shock Inactivated Glioma Stem Cells Enhance Antitumor Response of Mouse Glioma When Combining With CD47 Blockade
Authors: Tan Qijia , Li Feng , Wang Jun , Liu Yi , Cai Yingqian , Zou Yuxi , Jiang Xiaodan
Published: October 2024

Background:

For glioma patients, the long-term advantages of dendritic cells (DCs) immunization remain unknown. It is extremely important to develop new treatment strategies that enhance the immunotherapy effect of DC-based vaccines. DCs exposed to glioma stem cells (GSCs) are considered promising vaccines against glioma.

Methods:

Glioma stem cells were isolated from mouse glioma GL261 cells (GCs). Both were subjected to severe (47°C) and mild (42°C) heat shock to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). Membrane mobilization of calreticulin (CRT) and release of heat shock proteins (HSPs) were detected by flow cytometry. Dendritic cells were then exposed to heat-inactivated cells and co-culturing of T cells tested for immunotherapeutic efficacy in vitro. In vivo, we investigated the GSC targeting effect of the GSC-DC vaccine combined with CD47 blockade.

Results:

Heat shock induced ICD in GCs and GSCs, as indicated by significant release of calreticulin, HSP70, and HSP90. Heat shock condition ICD lysates induce maturation and activation-associated marker expression on monocyte-derived DCs. Accordingly, DCs pulsed with GCs and GSCs inactivated reduced colony formation, sphere formation, migration, and invasion of glioma and GSCs in vitro. Glioma stem cell-DC vaccine in combination with anti-CD47 antibody significantly enhanced survival in mice with glioma, induced production of interferon (IFN)-γ, and enhanced T-cell expansion in vivo. Of note, DCs pulsed with inactivated GSCs were more effective to control tumor growth than DCs pulsed with inactive GCs.

Conclusions:

Severe heat shock induces ICD in vitro. These data showed that administration of anti-CD47 antibody combined with GSC-DC vaccine may represent an effective immunotherapeutic strategy for cancer patients in clinical.
Expression of CREBBP and EP300 Associated With Tumor Volume in Patients With Grade-3 Glioma: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Chen Cuiwei , Yuan Meiqin , Xia Liang , Wu Xin , Zhong Xingguang , Zhang Huangjie , Zhang Lidan , Liu Xuan , Wang Zeng , Sun Caixing
Published: October 2024

Background:

Reliable predictive data are crucial for making accurate treatment decisions in glioma patients, but it can be challenging to obtain due to limited information in many cases. Numerous research studies have indicated the involvement of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-response element binding protein (CREBBP) and E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) in tumorigenesis and tumor progression across various types.

Methods:

The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of CREBBP and EP300 were retrospectively analyzed in 17 grade-3 glioma patients. The SYBR Green real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique was employed for mRNA expression analysis, with the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene ( GAPDH) used as a reference gene for data normalization. In addition, the relationship between CREBBP, EP300 expression and patients’ clinical information, imaging features, histologic features, immune factors, and overall survival was assessed through univariate analyses.

Results:

The analysis of the data unveiled a statistically significant upregulation of CREBBP and EP300 mRNA expression levels in large gliomas as compared with their smaller counterparts ( P < .05). Histological examination using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining exhibited marked cellular heterogeneity, with heightened cell density observed specifically within tumors displaying elevated CREBBP expression levels. In contrast, there was a substantial downregulation of complement 3 and complement 4 within larger tumor volumes when compared with smaller ones ( P < .05). However, these findings do not serve as clinically relevant prognostic indicators for glioma.

Conclusions:

It is suggested that higher expression levels of CREBBP and EP300 are positively associated with increased tumor volume. Inhibition of CREBBP and EP300 enhances local immunogenicity, leading to the recruitment of immune cells and release of cytokines for effective tumor eradication, ultimately resulting in the inhibition of tumor growth.
The impact of a professional development workshop on healthcare professionals’ knowledge and readiness to use telehealth etiquette in virtual care
Authors: Pittmann Rachel , Danaher-Garcia Nicole , Adair White Bobbie Ann , Thompson Anne
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Telehealth is a growing part of the healthcare field, and healthcare professionals and trainees require training not only on the clinical skills relevant to telehealth but also on professionalism skills or telehealth etiquette. As healthcare outcomes are influenced by the patient-provider relationship, training healthcare professionals on telehealth etiquette skills is imperative.

Methods

Forty-eight healthcare professionals across different disciplines, work settings, and experience levels participated in a telehealth etiquette skills educational intervention workshop wherein their knowledge and readiness to use the skills (specific to technology, environment, confidentiality, and communication) were assessed before and after the workshop.

Results

Paired sample t-tests revealed that participating in the educational intervention resulted in statistically significant improvements in knowledge and perceived readiness to use telehealth etiquette skills pertinent to technology, environment, and communication. There were no associations between participants’ personal factors and post-educational intervention changes.

Discussion

Study findings are significant and suggest that training healthcare professionals in telehealth etiquette have a positive impact. Since there is a known positive association between provider communication and patient satisfaction and a known association between patient satisfaction and healthcare outcomes, gaining telehealth etiquette skills is critical for promoting a positive patient-provider relationship via telehealth.
Quantifying patients’ preferences on tradeoffs between mortality risk and reduced need for target vessel revascularization for claudication
Authors: Reed Shelby D , Sutphin Jessie , Wallace Matthew J , Gonzalez Juan Marcos , Yang Jui-Chen , Reed Johnson F , Tsapatsaris Jennifer , Tarver Michelle E , Saha Anindita , Chen Allen L , Gebben David J , Malone Misti , Farb Andrew , Babalola Olufemi , Rorer Eva M , Parikh Sahil A , Simons Jessica P , Jones W Schuyler , Krucoff Mitchell W , Secemsky Eric A , Corriere Matthew A
Published: October 2024

Background:

In 2019, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a warning that symptomatic relief from claudication using paclitaxel-coated devices might be associated with an increase in mortality over 5 years. We designed a discrete-choice experiment (DCE) to quantify tradeoffs that patients would accept between a decreased risk of clinically driven target-vessel revascularization (CDTVR) and increased mortality risk.

Methods:

Patients with claudication symptoms were recruited from seven medical centers to complete a web-based survey including eight DCE questions that presented pairs of hypothetical device profiles defined by varying risks of CDTVR and overall mortality at 2 and 5 years. Random-parameters logit models were used to estimate relative preference weights, from which the maximum-acceptable increase in 5-year mortality risk was derived.

Results:

A total of 272 patients completed the survey. On average, patients would accept a device offering reductions in CDTVR risks from 30% to 10% at 2 years and from 40% to 30% at 5 years if the 5-year mortality risk was less than 12.6% (95% CI: 11.8–13.4%), representing a cut-point of 4.6 percentage points above a baseline risk of 8%. However, approximately 40% chose the device alternative with the lower 5-year mortality risk in seven (20.6%) or eight (18.0%) of the eight DCE questions regardless of the benefit offered.

Conclusions:

Most patients in the study would accept some incremental increase in 5-year mortality risk to reduce the 2-year and 5-year risks of CDTVR by 20 and 10 percentage points, respectively. However, significant patient-level variability in risk tolerance underscores the need for systematic approaches to support benefit-risk decision making.
Scaffolding patient agency: Conceptualising readers’ cognitive work in the comic gutter
Authors: Roberts Amanda
Published: October 2024

A life-limiting illness can erode an individual’s positive sense of self. Storytelling can help counteract this, through scaffolding patients’ agency and supporting them in acting to change something which matters to them. This article explains how visual stories – comics – are used within the PATCHATT intervention to support the redevelopment of a person’s agential self. Through the provision of a conceptual map, this article explores the gutter as a liminal space, arguing for the importance of the deep reader engagement which takes place there. It uses Bob’s comic, a story used within PATCHATT, to explore how reflexivity and imagination work together within the liminal space of the gutter to stimulate and enhance palliative care patients’ agential change leadership. It concludes by considering the implications of the argument put forward for palliative care practice.