bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensorimotor brain–computer interface performance depends on signal-to-noise ratio but not connectivity of the mu rhythm in a multiverse analysis of longitudinal data
Authors: Kapralov Nikolai , Jamshidi Idaji Mina , Stephani Tilman , Studenova Alina , Vidaurre Carmen , Ros Tomas , Villringer Arno , Nikulin Vadim
Published: September 2024

Objective. Serving as a channel for communication with locked-in patients or control of prostheses, sensorimotor brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) decode imaginary movements from the recorded activity of the user’s brain. However, many individuals remain unable to control the BCI, and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The user’s BCI performance was previously shown to correlate with the resting-state signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the mu rhythm and the phase synchronization (PS) of the mu rhythm between sensorimotor areas. Yet, these predictors of performance were primarily evaluated in a single BCI session, while the longitudinal aspect remains rather uninvestigated. In addition, different analysis pipelines were used to estimate PS in source space, potentially hindering the reproducibility of the results. Approach. To systematically address these issues, we performed an extensive validation of the relationship between pre-stimulus SNR, PS, and session-wise BCI performance using a publicly available dataset of 62 human participants performing up to 11 sessions of BCI training. We performed the analysis in sensor space using the surface Laplacian and in source space by combining 24 processing pipelines in a multiverse analysis. This way, we could investigate how robust the observed effects were to the selection of the pipeline. Main results. Our results show that SNR had both between- and within-subject effects on BCI performance for the majority of the pipelines. In contrast, the effect of PS on BCI performance was less robust to the selection of the pipeline and became non-significant after controlling for SNR. Significance. Taken together, our results demonstrate that changes in neuronal connectivity within the sensorimotor system are not critical for learning to control a BCI, and interventions that increase the SNR of the mu rhythm might lead to improvements in the user’s BCI performance.
Exploring discharged dry cell as an electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Karthik Esakki , Mondal Sanjit , Sahoo Lipipushpa
Published: September 2024

Transition metal compounds with a high affinity for oxygen in dry cell configurations, such as MnO2, Mn3O4, and ZnxMn3O4−x, exhibit exceptional electrocatalytic properties in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, the disposal of these dry cell materials, unlike that of rechargeable batteries, poses environmental hazards. In this study, we focused on optimizing these manganese oxides for energy-related applications, specifically OER. To achieve this goal, we investigated the electrocatalytic behaviour of both used and fresh dry cells in OER. Our results show that the used dry cell material achieved a current density of 10 mA·cm−2 at an overpotential of 525 mV, whereas the fresh dry cell required an overpotential 100 mV higher to reach the same current density. We further characterized the nature of these fresh and used materials using various techniques, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and contact angle measurements. The enhanced activity of the used dry cell can be attributed to the formation of highly active Mn3O4 from MnO2 and graphene oxide under discharging conditions.
Enhancing magnetocaloric performance of Ni50Mn35Sn15 Heusler alloys: comparative analysis of arc melting and laser induced melting
Authors: Yao Yin , Sun Yan , Sun Jianzhe , Bai Jianhui
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the synthesis of Ni50Mn35Sn15 (NMS) Heusler alloys using arc melting and laser-induced melting techniques, focusing on the influence of these methods on the alloys’ structural and magnetocaloric properties. The research further examined the impact of post-synthesis treatments, including annealing and mechanical grinding, as well as the stability of these alloys under repeated magnetization cycles. The results demonstrated that laser-induced melting significantly enhanced the magnetocaloric performance of NMS alloys compared to arc melting. This method produced alloys with finer microstructures, leading to improved performance and stability in magnetocaloric applications. The study emphasized the importance of synthesis methods in developing efficient magnetocaloric materials and highlights their potential to advance sustainable cooling technologies.
The effect of graphene solution on mixed powder electrical discharge milling of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Du Yuexiang , Gao Shanping , Zhou Chenyu , Li Qilin , Kong Linglei , Lei Weining
Published: September 2024

Ti6Al4V is the most widely used materials in aerospace, medical, nuclear power and other fields. However, due to its unique properties such as low thermal conductivity, titanium alloy poses challenges in machining processes. Electrical discharge milling (EDM) is a machining method that utilizes the electrical corrosion phenomenon of pulsed spark discharge between two electrodes to remove materials, which is highly suitable for the machining of Ti6Al4V. This paper investigates a mixed powder EDM approach for titanium alloy using a graphene solution medium known for its green and sustainable characteristics. Compared to conventional deionized water medium processing which without powder particles, the material removal rate can be increased by 50%, the surface hardness after processing was 2.5 times higher than that of the substrate, the electrode wear rate could be reduced by 40%, the surface roughness values were reduced by more than 20%. Besides that, the micro-cracks and micro-pores on the workpiece surface can be significantly reduced. Subsequently, single factor experiments and orthogonal experiments were conducted using material removal rate, electrode wear rate, and surface roughness as process indicators. The influence of processing parameters on process indicators was investigated based on optimal selection method and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, the optimized parameters in graphene solution mixed powder EDM for Ti6Al4V were obtained. When using the process combination A3B3C1D2, the maximum MRR can be obtained.
Synthetic CT generation from CBCT based on structural constraint cycle-EEM-GAN
Authors: Lu Qianhong , Luo Feng , Shi Juntian , Xu Kunyuan
Published: September 2024

Objective. Cone beam CT (CBCT) typically has severe image artifacts and inaccurate HU values, which limits its application in radiation medicines. Scholars have proposed the use of cycle consistent generative adversarial network (Cycle-GAN) to address these issues. However, the generation quality of Cycle-GAN needs to be improved. This issue is exacerbated by the inherent size discrepancies between pelvic CT scans from different patients, as well as varying slice positions within the same patient, which introduce a scaling problem during training. Approach. We introduced the Enhanced Edge and Mask (EEM) approach in our structural constraint Cycle-EEM-GAN. This approach is designed to not only solve the scaling problem but also significantly improve the generation quality of the synthetic CT images. Then data from sixty pelvic patients were used to investigate the generation of synthetic CT (sCT) from CBCT. Main results. The mean absolute error (MAE), the root mean square error (RMSE), the peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), the structural similarity index (SSIM), and spatial nonuniformity (SNU) are used to assess the quality of the sCT generated from CBCT. Compared with CBCT images, the MAE improved from 53.09 to 37.74, RMSE from 185.22 to 146.63, SNU from 0.38 to 0.35, PSNR from 24.68 to 32.33, SSIM from 0.624 to 0.981. Also, the Cycle-EEM-GAN outperformed Cycle-GAN in terms of visual evaluation and loss. Significance. Cycle-EEM-GAN has improved the quality of CBCT images, making the structural details clear while prevents image scaling during the generation process, so that further promotes the application of CBCT in radiotherapy.
Influence of cyclic ignition and steady-state operation on a 1–2 A barium tungsten hollow cathode
Authors: WANG 王 Fufeng 福锋 , MENG 孟 Tianhang 天航 , NING 宁 Zhongxi 中喜 , ZHU 朱 Ximing 悉铭
Published: September 2024

Booming low-power electric propulsion systems require 1–2 A hollow cathodes. Such cathodes are expected to go through more frequent ignitions in the low orbit, but the impact of cyclic ignitions on such 1–2 A barium tungsten hollow cathodes with a heater was not clear. In this study, a 12,638-cyclic ignition test and a 6,000-hour-long life test on two identical cathodes were carried out. The discharge voltage of the cathode and the erosion of the orifice after cyclic ignition were all larger than that of the cathode after stable operation. This indicated that the impact of cycle ignition on the discharge performance of a low current BaO-W cathode with a heater was higher than that of stable operation. The results of the ion energy distribution function measured during the ignition period indicated that the main reason for the orifice expansion was ion bombardment. Therefore, it was necessary to pay attention to the number of ignitions for the lifetime of this kind of cathode.
An MLGRU and SAM-based Approach to Milling Chatter Detection using Multi-sensor Data
Authors: Zhu Zhiying , Liu Riliang
Published: September 2024

Chatter is a common occurrence in the milling process, which leads to a decrease in surface quality, machining accuracy, and even equipment damage. Consequently, the detection and control of chatter are of great significance. In this paper, a chatter recognition model is proposed for monitoring milling status taking advantage of the multi-sensor data fusion technology and the learning ability of deep networks. In the recognition model, multiple sensors are used to collect signals from the machining operation, and the signals are analyzed in time and frequency domains, as well as wavelet packet transform to extract features. To obtain a multi-sensor feature matrix, Principal Component Analysis is used for feature dimensionality reduction and fusion; Then, a multi-layer gated loop unit is introduced to extract temporal information from the signals and achieve feature fusion at the sensor level. In the meanwhile, self-attention mechanism is employed to extract key information of features. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this method, machining experiment is conducted on a vertical machining center, and three-dimensional vibration signals and acoustic emission signals are collected during the thin-wall milling process under multiple machining conditions. Trained and tested using the experimental data, and the results shows that accuracy of the proposed model in identifying the chatter state is as high as 91.15%.
A robust approach to transformer fault diagnosis: integrating time-current loci analysis with statistical feature extraction
Authors: Shanu Tabish , Mishra Ambarisha
Published: September 2024

The accurate differentiation of inrush currents and inter-turn faults in power transformers is critical for ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical power systems. Traditional methods often face challenges in distinguishing between these conditions due to their overlapping characteristics, leading to potential misoperations and system instability. This paper presents a novel solution through the introduction of the time-current loci (TIL) method, which effectively addresses this critical issue by providing a robust mechanism for classifying normal operating conditions, inrush currents, and inter-turn faults. The TIL method involves plotting time against current over a single cycle, generating distinct loci patterns that serve as a visual and analytical foundation for classification. By extracting and analyzing key statistical features from these loci, the method enhances the accuracy of fault detection. Specifically, the rate of change in time and current is used to determine the orientation of the TIL curve, with additional features such as the mean orientation and skewness being computed to capture the unique geometric properties associated with each operating condition. This approach simplifies the analysis process, eliminating the need for complex machine learning algorithms and reducing computational demands, making it highly suitable for real-time implementation. Experimental validation was carried out using a 1 kVA, 230 V/230 V transformer under various operating conditions, and the results demonstrated the effectiveness of the TIL method in reliably distinguishing between normal conditions, inrush currents, and inter-turn faults. The visual nature of the loci plots not only aids in accurate classification but also provides an intuitive understanding of transformer behavior, facilitating quick and informed decision-making by operators. This advancement addresses a critical challenge in transformer protection, offering a more reliable and efficient solution compared to traditional techniques.
Intermediate long wave equation in negative Sobolev spaces
Authors: Chapouto Andreia , Forlano Justin , Li Guopeng , Oh Tadahiro , Pilod Didier
Published: September 2024

We study the intermediate long wave equation (ILW) in negative Sobolev spaces. In particular, despite the lack of scaling invariance, we identify the regularity

s
=
−

1
2

s = -\frac 12

as the critical regularity for ILW with any depth parameter, by establishing the following two results. (i) By viewing ILW as a perturbation of the Benjamin–Ono equation (BO) and exploiting the complete integrability of BO, we establish a global-in-time a priori bound on the

H
s

H^s

-norm of a solution to ILW for

−

1
2

>
s
>
0

- \frac 12 > s > 0

. (ii) By making use of explicit solutions, we prove that ILW is ill-posed in

H
s

H^s

for

s
>
−

1
2

s > - \frac 12

. Our results apply to both the real line case and the periodic case.
Decision cost hypersensitivity underlies Huntington’s disease apathy
Authors: Morris Lee-Anne , Horne Kyla-Louise , Manohar Sanjay , Paermentier Laura , Buchanan Christina M , MacAskill Michael R , Myall Daniel J , Apps Matthew , Roxburgh Richard , Anderson Tim J , Husain Masud , Le Heron Campbell J
Published: September 2024

The neuropsychiatric syndrome of apathy is now recognized to be a common and disabling condition in Huntington’s disease. However, the mechanisms underlying it are poorly understood. One way to investigate apathy is to use a theoretical framework of normal motivated behaviour, to determine where breakdown has occurred in people with this behavioural disruption. A fundamental computation underlying motivated, goal-directed behaviour across species is weighing up the costs and rewards associated with actions. Here, we asked whether people with apathy are more sensitive to costs of actions (physical effort and time delay), less sensitive to rewarding outcomes, or both. Based on the unique anatomical substrates associated with Huntington’s disease pathology, we hypothesized that a general hypersensitivity to costs would underpin Huntington’s disease apathy.

Genetically confirmed carriers of the expanded Huntingtin gene (premanifest to mild motor manifest disease, n = 53) were compared to healthy controls (n = 38). Participants performed a physical effort-based decision-making task (Apple Gathering Task) and a delay discounting task (Money Choice Questionnaire). Choice data was analysed using linear regression and drift diffusion models that also accounted for the time taken to make decisions.

Apathetic people with Huntington’s disease accepted fewer offers overall on the Apple Gathering Task, specifically driven by increased sensitivity to physical effort costs, and not explained by motor severity, mood, cognition or medication. Drift diffusion modelling provided further evidence of effort hypersensitivity, with apathy associated with a faster drift rate towards rejecting offers as a function of varying effort. Increased delay sensitivity was also associated with apathy, both when analysing raw choice and drift rate, where there was moderate evidence of Huntington’s disease apathy drifting faster towards the immediately available (low-cost) option. Furthermore, the effort and delay sensitivity parameters from these tasks were positively correlated.

The results demonstrate a clear mechanism for apathy in Huntington’s disease, cost hypersensitivity, which manifests in both the effort and time costs associated with actions towards rewarding goals. This suggests that Huntington’s disease pathology may cause a domain-general disruption of cost processing, which is distinct from apathy occurrence in other brain disorders and may require different therapeutic approaches.
Enhancing origin prediction: deep learning model for diagnosing premature ventricular contractions with dual-rhythm analysis focused on cardiac rotation
Authors: Nakasone Kazutaka , Nishimori Makoto , Shinohara Masakazu , Takami Mitsuru , Imamura Kimitake , Nishida Taku , Shimane Akira , Oginosawa Yasushi , Nakamura Yuki , Yamauchi Yasuteru , Fujiwara Ryudo , Asada Hiroyuki , Yoshida Akihiro , Takami Kaoru , Akita Tomomi , Nagai Takayuki , Sommer Philipp , El Hamriti Mustapha , Imada Hiroshi , Pannone Luigi , Sarkozy Andrea , Chierchia Gian Battista , de Asmundis Carlo , Kiuchi Kunihiko , Hirata Ken-ichi , Fukuzawa Koji
Published: September 2024

Aims

Several algorithms can differentiate inferior axis premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) originating from the right side and left side on 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs). However, it is unclear whether distinguishing the origin should rely solely on PVC or incorporate sinus rhythm (SR). We compared the dual-rhythm model (incorporating both SR and PVC) to the PVC model (using PVC alone) and quantified the contribution of each ECG lead in predicting the PVC origin for each cardiac rotation.

Methods and results

This multicentre study enrolled 593 patients from 11 centres—493 from Japan and Germany, and 100 from Belgium, which were used as the external validation data set. Using a hybrid approach combining a Resnet50-based convolutional neural network and a transformer model, we developed two variants—the PVC and dual-rhythm models—to predict PVC origin. In the external validation data set, the dual-rhythm model outperformed the PVC model in accuracy (0.84 vs. 0.74, respectively; P < 0.01), precision (0.73 vs. 0.55, respectively; P < 0.01), specificity (0.87 vs. 0.68, respectively; P < 0.01), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.91 vs. 0.86, respectively; P = 0.03), and F1-score (0.77 vs. 0.68, respectively; P = 0.03). The contributions to PVC origin prediction were 77.3% for PVC and 22.7% for the SR. However, in patients with counterclockwise rotation, SR had a greater contribution in predicting the origin of right-sided PVC.

Conclusion

Our deep learning–based model, incorporating both PVC and SR morphologies, resulted in a higher prediction accuracy for PVC origin, considering SR is particularly important for predicting right-sided origin in patients with counterclockwise rotation.
Extracting fault-zone structures using the virtual seismometer method: from theoretical to synthetic test
Authors: Liu Wei , Yue Han , Hu Nan
Published: September 2024

Rocks near a fault plane are commonly damaged by multiple earthquake ruptures, forming damage zones. The damage zone is an important structure controlling various properties of a fault, yet its fine scale (tens to hundreds of meters) structure is difficult to resolve with surface seismic observations. We propose to use earthquakes that occur at depth within a fault zone as virtual seismometers (VSs) and use surface observations to extract Green's function (GFs) between VS pairs (VSGFs). This method resembles that of ambient noise tomography and the retrieved VSGFs are related to the structures between event pairs. In this study, we develop the theory about how to extract VSGFs using surface stations deployed across a fault zone. First, we use a half-space model and Fresnel zone analysis to determine the upper and lower limits of the GF frequency band, which is controlled by the station spacing and aperture of a given seismic array. Then, for VS in a fault zone, we demonstrate that the VSGF can be retrieved by linear seismic arrays deployed across the fault, and that the VSGF is equivalent to waves emitted simultaneously from an array of mirror sources of one event and received by the other. Secondly, the half-space result is directly adopted to determine the corresponding frequency band in the damage zone situation. Thirdly, we analyse different combinations of VS pair geometry and conclude that a relatively larger VS distance (much larger than the damage zone width) is more effective to recover damage zone structures for the available frequency bands. In this situation, VSGFs are trapped waves, that is represented by the interference of mirror sources. In such a case, the trapped waves are equivalent to surface waves, which have dispersion features to extract damage zone structures. Finally, we adopt the VSGF method to the Ridgecrest earthquake aftershock monitoring array and use a profile of aftershocks to extract six pairs of VSGFs. The spatial variation of VSGFs may reflect the depth-dependent variation of damaged zone. Our analysis shows a promising direction to use VSGFs to extract spatial variations of fault damaged zones.
Decolonizing “the Data” of Religious Studies: A Case against the Worldview Model of Difference
Authors: Hedrick Lisa Landoe
Published: September 2024

Challenging the false neutrality of secularism, J. Z. Smith (1988) declared that between “religion” and “religious studies” there is “no difference at all.” The subsequent rise of area studies matched the decline of comparative programs whose underwriting logic faltered under postcolonial scrutiny. This turn toward particularity and data expansion was a way of reckoning with the ethnocentric universalizing of modern social theory. Today, scholars in both religious studies and anthropology worry about how ethnocentrism persists in the very form of “the data.” However, the former have largely misunderstood the contributions of anthropology’s ontological turn—specifically the “radical” variant “perspectivism”—to disciplinary reform. I explain why perspectivists suggest replacing talk of multiple views with talk of multiple worlds to model a genuine alternative to cultural relativism.
Longitudinal study of the manifestations and mechanisms of technology-related prescribing errors in pediatrics
Authors: Raban Magdalena Z , Fitzpatrick Erin , Merchant Alison , Rahman Bayzidur , Badgery-Parker Tim , Li Ling , Baysari Melissa T , Barclay Peter , Dickinson Michael , Mumford Virginia , Westbrook Johanna I
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To examine changes in technology-related errors (TREs), their manifestations and underlying mechanisms at 3 time points after the implementation of computerized provider order entry (CPOE) in an electronic health record; and evaluate the clinical decision support (CDS) available to mitigate the TREs at 5-years post-CPOE.

Materials and Methods

Prescribing errors (n = 1315) of moderate, major, or serious potential harm identified through review of 35 322 orders at 3 time points (immediately, 1-year, and 4-years post-CPOE) were assessed to identify TREs at a tertiary pediatric hospital. TREs were coded using the Technology-Related Error Mechanism classification. TRE rates, percentage of prescribing errors that were TREs, and mechanism rates were compared over time. Each TRE was tested in the CPOE 5-years post-implementation to assess the availability of CDS to mitigate the error.

Results

TREs accounted for 32.5% (n = 428) of prescribing errors; an adjusted rate of 1.49 TREs/100 orders (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06, 1.92). At 1-year post-CPOE, the rate of TREs was 40% lower than immediately post (incident rate ratio [IRR]: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.89). However, at 4-years post, the TRE rate was not significantly different to baseline (IRR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.59, 1.08). “New workflows required by the CPOE” was the most frequent TRE mechanism at all time points. CDS was available to mitigate 32.7% of TREs.

Discussion

In a pediatric setting, TREs persisted 4-years post-CPOE with no difference in the rate compared to immediately post-CPOE.

Conclusion

Greater attention is required to address TREs to enhance the safety benefits of systems.
Experiences in providing a community educational resource for the All of Us Researcher Workbench
Authors: Ritter Deborah I , Byun Jinyoung , Wang Jun , Richards Stephen , Luna Pamela N , Williams LaTerrica , Coleman Julie R , Baker Jasmine N , Ketkar Shamika , Butler Ashley M , Hammonds-Odie Latanya , Atkinson Elizabeth G , Worley Kim C , Murray Debra D , Lee Brendan , Scherer Steven E
Published: September 2024

Objective

Educational offerings to fill the bioinformatics knowledge gap are a key component to enhancing access and use of health data from the All of Us Research Program. We developed a Train the Trainer-based, innovative training series including project-based learning, modular on-demand demonstrations, and unstructured tutorial time as a model for educational engagement in the All of Us community.

Materials and Methods

We highlight our training modules and content, with training survey data informing cycles of development in the creation of a 6-module training series with modular demonstrations.

Results

We have conducted 2 public iterations of the Train the Trainer (Tx3) Series based on survey feedback while training over 300 registered researchers to access and analyze data on the All of Us Researcher Workbench.

Discussion and Conclusion

Future directions of the Tx3 Series include enhanced focus on project-based learning and learner requests for modularity and asynchronous materials access.
Electronic health record system use and documentation burden of acute and critical care nurse clinicians: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Cho Hwayoung , Nguyen Oliver T , Weaver Michael , Pruitt Jennifer , Marcelle Cassie , Salloum Ramzi G , Keenan Gail
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Examine electronic health record (EHR) use and factors contributing to documentation burden in acute and critical care nurses.

Materials and Methods

A mixed-methods design was used guided by Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Key EHR components included, Flowsheets, Medication Administration Records (MAR), Care Plan, Notes, and Navigators. We first identified 5 units with the highest documentation burden in 1 university hospital through EHR log file analyses. Four nurses per unit were recruited and engaged in interviews and surveys designed to examine their perceptions of ease of use and usefulness of the 5 EHR components. A combination of inductive/deductive coding was used for qualitative data analysis.

Results

Nurses acknowledged the importance of documentation for patient care, yet perceived the required documentation as burdensome with levels varying across the 5 components. Factors contributing to burden included non-EHR issues (patient-to-nurse staffing ratios; patient acuity; suboptimal time management) and EHR usability issues related to design/features. Flowsheets, Care Plan, and Navigators were found to be below acceptable usability and contributed to more burden compared to MAR and Notes. The most troublesome EHR usability issues were data redundancy, poor workflow navigation, and cumbersome data entry based on unit type.

Discussion

Overall, we used quantitative and qualitative data to highlight challenges with current nursing documentation features in the EHR that contribute to documentation burden. Differences in perceived usability across the EHR documentation components were driven by multiple factors, such as non-alignment with workflows and amount of duplication of prior data entries. Nurses offered several recommendations for improving the EHR, including minimizing redundant or excessive data entry requirements, providing visual cues (eg, clear error messages, highlighting areas where missing or incorrect information are), and integrating decision support.

Conclusion

Our study generated evidence for nurse EHR use and specific documentation usability issues contributing to burden. Findings can inform the development of solutions for enhancing multi-component EHR usability that accommodates the unique workflow of nurses. Documentation strategies designed to improve nurse working conditions should include non-EHR factors as they also contribute to documentation burden.
Artificial intelligence for optimizing recruitment and retention in clinical trials: a scoping review
Authors: Lu Xiaoran , Yang Chen , Liang Lu , Hu Guanyu , Zhong Ziyi , Jiang Zihao
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective of our research is to conduct a comprehensive review that aims to systematically map, describe, and summarize the current utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in the recruitment and retention of participants in clinical trials.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive electronic search was conducted using the search strategy developed by the authors. The search encompassed research published in English, without any time limitations, which utilizes AI in the recruitment process of clinical trials. Data extraction was performed using a data charting table, which included publication details, study design, and specific outcomes/results.

Results

The search yielded 5731 articles, of which 51 were included. All the studies were designed specifically for optimizing recruitment in clinical trials and were published between 2004 and 2023. Oncology was the most covered clinical area. Applying AI to recruitment in clinical trials has demonstrated several positive outcomes, such as increasing efficiency, cost savings, improving recruitment, accuracy, patient satisfaction, and creating user-friendly interfaces. It also raises various technical and ethical issues, such as limited quantity and quality of sample size, privacy, data security, transparency, discrimination, and selection bias.

Discussion and Conclusion

While AI holds promise for optimizing recruitment in clinical trials, its effectiveness requires further validation. Future research should focus on using valid and standardized outcome measures, methodologically improving the rigor of the research carried out.
The Influential Influenza: The “Russian Catarrh” Pandemic of 1781-1782
Authors: Romaniello Matthew P
Published: September 2024

The influenza pandemic of 1781-1782 was remarkably well-documented, with investigations and treatment records produced in Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Russia. Everyone agreed that outbreak began in St. Petersburg in December 1781 and then spread across northern Europe, but the medical communities’ consensus did not solve all issues. Two questions would inspire years of debate. The first concerned the transmission vector of the pandemic: was it the result of neo-Hippocratic, miasmatic, or contagionist exposure? This was perhaps the greatest concern of the late-eighteenth century, and multiple physicians hoped the latest influenza pandemic could provide an answer. The second was no less difficult – where did the disease originate? This was not only because geography affected both prophylactic measures and treatment options but also produced diplomatic and commercial consequences. Was a quarantine necessary, preventing commercial exchanges? Did the risk of infection result in peace negotiations being delayed, potentially extending the American Revolution and the ongoing naval conflict in the Atlantic? Even if a consensus could be reached that this was a “Russian” catarrh, this would not resolve the method of disease transmission. The pandemic of 1781-1782 was not a turning point in the arguments among neo-Hippocratic, miasmatic, and contagionist physicians, but rather reveals all three positions could be held simultaneously.
New Approaches to Plant Pathogen Detection and Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Cubero Jaime , Zarco-Tejada Pablo J. , Cuesta-Morrondo Sara , Palacio-Bielsa Ana , Navas-Cortés Juan A. , Sabuquillo Pilar , Poblete Tomás , Landa Blanca B. , Garita-Cambronero Jerson
Published: September 2024

Detecting plant pathogens and diagnosing diseases are critical components of successful pest management. These key areas have undergone significant advancements driven by breakthroughs in molecular biology and remote sensing technologies within the realm of precision agriculture. Notably, nucleic acid amplification techniques, with recent emphasis on sequencing procedures, particularly next-generation sequencing, have enabled improved DNA or RNA amplification detection protocols that now enable previously unthinkable strategies aimed at dissecting plant microbiota, including the disease-causing components. Simultaneously, the domain of remote sensing has seen the emergence of cutting-edge imaging sensor technologies and the integration of powerful computational tools, such as machine learning. These innovations enable spectral analysis of foliar symptoms and specific pathogen-induced alterations, making imaging spectroscopy and thermal imaging fundamental tools for large-scale disease surveillance and monitoring. These technologies contribute significantly to understanding the temporal and spatial dynamics of plant diseases.
Peer Support Ambassadors: A Program to Advance a Supportive and Inclusive Clinical Learning Environment
Authors: Moore Kendra A. , Ureste Peter , Davis Denise L. , Boscardin Christy , Thomas Larissa R.
Published: September 2024

Peer support is beneficial to physicians in distress, but few institutions have created formal programs that train residents and fellows to effectively support their peers. Existing curricula also do not address the differential experience of residents from historically excluded groups, who are more likely to experience distressing mistreatment and discrimination in the clinical learning environment. The Graduate Medical Education (GME) Peer Support Ambassador (PSA) Program aimed to address this gap by: (1) offering peer support skills and trauma-informed care training to a diverse cohort of resident leaders representing a range of specialties, (2) deploying these leaders to support their peers, and (3) facilitating opportunities for participants to train other residents in these skills. In the PSA program’s inaugural year, 10 residents were trained in fundamentals of peer support, trauma-informed care, and the restorative mindset. The training increased participants’ confidence and skills in these areas, their understanding of when to refer a co-resident for additional levels of support, and their awareness of resources for mental health care and addressing mistreatment and discrimination. Beyond the skills training, the program broadened participants’ perspectives about other residents’ experiences and helped them feel more connected to residents in other specialties. Opportunities to improve the PSA program include creating more opportunities for program participants to connect between sessions and after the training, publicizing the program more effectively to residents experiencing distress, and training a larger number of residents in peer support skills.
Comparing Pain Outcomes and Treatment Adherence Between In-Person and Virtual Interdisciplinary Pain Rehabilitation Programs at the San Francisco VA Health Care System
Authors: Murphy Emily , Toor Tiffany , Palyo Sarah , Librodo Sara , Schopmeyer Kathryn , Simmons Alan N. , Strigo Irina A.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

This study compared clinical pain outcomes between patients in a pain treatment program that was conducted in-person, compared with a virtual program.

Methods:

In-person (N=127) and virtual (N=101) pain treatment programs were compared based on patient-reported, practitioner-collected, and medical record data. The patients were measured at baseline and post-treatment (week 12 for In-Person and week 8 for Virtual patients). We employed the last observation carried forward (LOCF) to handle missing data.

Results:

Both the In-Person and Virtual groups were similar in regard to all baseline outcomes, except the In-person group having significantly more co-morbidities at baseline, with particularly more cases of mental, behavioral, or neurodevelopmental diseases. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in the pain-related measurements of pain interference and pain catastrophizing thoughts, but neither group displayed a change in average pain across treatment. Further, both groups improved significantly on emotional well-being scores, but not on physical functioning scores. No significant differences existed between groups on outcomes, except for pain catastrophizing, which was higher in the Virtual group at both time points. The Virtual group had lower rates of dropouts compared with In-Person, while the In-Person group had a larger proportion reach a clinically meaningful change in pain-related outcomes, defined as a >30% improvement.

Discussion:

While some changes were unique to the In-Person program, overall, patients in the Virtual program achieved similar treatment outcomes, suggesting that it can successfully treat Veterans seeking pain management, with less need for in-person facilities for both patients and clinicians.
Comparison of Cognitive Functions Between Individuals With Chronic Low Back Pain With High and Low Pain Catastrophizing and Pain-free Controls
Authors: Bakhshi Feleh Fatemeh , Mofateh Razieh , Orakifar Neda , Lohrasbi Soroush
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

Researchers suggested that the interruptive effects of chronic pain on cognitive functions may be modulated by the level of pain catastrophizing (PC). However, in individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP), domains of cognitive function that may be affected by the level of PC remain largely unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare cognitive functions between individuals with CLBP with high and low PC and pain-free controls.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study examined cognitive functions of 42 individuals with CLBP and 21 pain-free controls. The PC scale was used to stratify participants with CLBP into high and low PC. Participants performed 5 cognitive tests from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, namely 5-choice reaction time, rapid visual processing, spatial working memory, attention switching task, and stop signal task.

Results:

The statistical analyses revealed that compared with individuals with CLBP with low PC and pain-free controls, individuals with high PC demonstrated greater values of the between errors (P=0.01), reaction latency (P<0.001), and stop signal reaction time variables (P=0.004, 0.003, respectively) but lower values of probability of hit (P=0.02, 0.01, respectively), A′ (P=0.01, <0.001, respectively), and percent correct trials variables (P=0.002, <0.001, respectively).

Discussion:

The results of the current study showed deficits in sustained attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control in individuals with CLBP with high PC. From a clinical perspective, therapeutic interventions targeting PC should be considered to decrease catastrophic thinking about pain in individuals with CLBP. Additional research is warranted to explore cognitive functioning as an outcome of these interventions in individuals with CLBP.
False-Positive Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Test Results With Rapid Seroreversion After Third-Trimester Tdap Booster Vaccination
Authors: Yu Karl O. A. , Glassman Seth R. , Link Heather M.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

False-positive and false-negative results in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing are expected at some frequency. False-positive results have been reported in association with various conditions, including pregnancy, autoimmune disease, and infection. We present an atypical case of a pregnant patient receiving false-positive HIV results for both screening and antibody confirmatory tests after a recent routine vaccination.

CASE:

A 34-year-old woman, G4P1021, with a negative first-trimester HIV test result received a tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster at 35 2/7 weeks of gestation. Test results at 36 2/7 weeks of gestation were positive in both HIV-1/2 antigen–antibody screening and a confirmatory HIV-1 antibody differentiation immunoassay, but follow-up test results at 36 5/7 weeks and later were negative. Repeat testing and erythrocyte typing confirmed that this was not a result of laboratory error or specimen mishandling. HIV antiretroviral therapy was started and was later discontinued. A scheduled primary cesarean delivery performed at 39 1/7 weeks of gestation due to breech presentation was uncomplicated.

CONCLUSIONS:

False-positive results in HIV screen and confirmation testing were associated with receipt of a Tdap vaccine booster 7 days prior. This test result pattern is similar to that seen very rarely in previous cases, and the rapid seroreversion to negative suggests an acute immunologic trigger leading to a falsely reactive antibody. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for false-positive HIV test results in patients who recently received vaccination or with other immune triggers and retest at a short interval if suspected.
Roadmap to a Global Template for Implementation of Ototoxicity Management for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Fernandez Katharine , Hoetink Alex , Konrad-Martin Dawn , Berndtson Deborah , Clark Khaya , Dreisbach Laura , Geller James I. , Goffi-Gomez Maria Valeria , Grosnik Amy , Jamis Carmen , Knight Kristin , Lee David S. , Lee John , Liberman Patricia Helena Pecora , Milnes Trisha , Meijer Annelot J. M. , Ortiz Candice E. , Rooker Jennessa , Sanchez Victoria A. , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Mary M. , Brewer Carmen C. , Poling Gayla L.
Published: September 2024

Ototoxicity is among the adverse events related to cancer treatment that can have far-reaching consequences and negative impacts on quality-of-life for cancer patients and survivors of all ages. Ototoxicity management (OtoM) comprises the prevention, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment, including rehabilitation and therapeutic intervention, of individuals who experience hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance/vestibular difficulties following exposures to ototoxic agents, including platinum chemotherapy (cisplatin, carboplatin) and cranial radiation. Despite the well-established physical, socioeconomic, and psychological consequences of hearing and balance dysfunction, there are no widely adopted standards for clinical management of cancer treatment-related ototoxicity. Consensus recommendations and a roadmap are needed to guide development of effective and feasible OtoM programs, direct research efforts, address the needs of caregivers and patients at all stages of cancer care and survivorship. Here we review current evidence and propose near-term to longer-term goals to advance OtoM in five strategic areas: (1) beneficiary awareness, empowerment, and engagement, (2) workforce enhancement, (3) program development, (4) policy, funding, and sustainability, and (5) research and evaluation. The goal is to identify needs and establish a roadmap to guide worldwide adoption of standardized OtoM for cancer treatment and improved outcomes for patients and survivors.
Temporal Trends in the Epidemiology of Lower Back Pain in the United States
Authors: Gupta Nithin , Doad Jagroop , Singh Rohin , Chien Derek , Cotroneo Matthew , Reid Daniel B.C. , Cloney Michael , Paul David
Published: September 2024

Study Design.

This was an observational study.

Objective.

This study aims to explore sociodemographic and regional geographic variations in lower back pain (LBP) incidence, prevalence, and burden in the United States (US from 2000 to 2019).

Summary of Background Data.

LBP is a major contributor to lost wages and disability in the United States. As LBP is associated with increasing age and sedentary lifestyle, the incidence of LBP is expected to rise. Due to LBP’s multifactorial causes, US epidemiological trends lack sufficient data.

Materials and Methods.

Descriptive epidemiological data including disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), incidence, and prevalence per 100,000 population from 2000 to 2019 were collected from the Global Burden of Disease database. State-level data regarding poverty, insurance and employment status were obtained from the US Government Census Bureau and US Department of Labor. Statistical significance was indicated by P<0.05.

Results.

From 2000 to 2019, the US demonstrated reductions in LBP incidence, prevalence, and DALYs. Regional analysis demonstrated the Midwest to have the greatest mean incidence, prevalence, and DALYs; with Midwestern females significantly more affected than females in other regions. Those aged 25 to 49 in the Midwest were impacted significantly more across all measures compared with age-matched populations in other regions. Nationally, there were no significant associations between unemployment and LBP. Poverty was inversely correlated with LBP incidence. Uninsured status was positively correlated with prevalence and DALYs.

Conclusion.

Although there has been progress in reducing the impact of LBP in the United States, the Midwest region has greater rates for all measures compared with other US regions. Further, females and those aged 25 to 49 in the Midwest were more likely to be affected by LBP compared with counterparts in other regions. Future studies should identify specific factors contributing to elevated LBP rates in the Midwest in order to guide targeted interventions to reduce the incidence and burden of LBP there.
HEART vs EDACS Scores on Predicting Major Events Among Patients With Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome at the Cardiac Emergency Department
Authors: Hasballa Shimaa Mohamed , Abdelmegid Mohamed Aboel-Kassem F , Mehany Mogedda Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Background:

Coronary risk scores, such as History, Electrocardiogram, Age, Risk Factors, and Troponin (HEART) and Emergency Department Assessment of Chest Pain Score (EDACS) scores, help nurses identify suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients who have a risk for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) within 30 days. Aim: To compare the accuracy of HEART and EDACS scores in predicting major events among patients suspected of ACS in the cardiac emergency department (ED). Design and methods: A prospective correlational observational study design was performed on cardiac ED patients who presented with suspected ACS. Tools: Three tools were utilized to collect data pertinent to the study: Tool I comprises patients’ assessment (personal characteristics, risk factors for ACS, and chest pain assessment sheet); Tool II is the risk assessment tool that includes HEART and EDACS scores; and Tool III is MACE incidence among studied patients within 30 days. Results: HEART score was significantly (P < .01) higher among patients for whom MACE was present than absent. However, EDACS score showed no significant difference (P > .05) among patients whose MACE was present or absent. HEART risk score >6 correctly predicted MACE cases with sensitivity and specificity of 77.46% and 48.28%, respectively. However, EDACS score >18 correctly predicted MACE cases with sensitivity and specificity of 42.25% and 75.86%, respectively. Conclusion: This study concludes that HEART score has better sensitivity than EDACS in predicting MACE among suspected ACS patients at the cardiac ED. The HEART score provides the nurses with a quicker and more reliable predictor of MACE shortly after the arrival of the suspected ACS patients at the cardiac ED than the EDACS score. The study recommended the implementation of a HEART score in the cardiac ED for predicting MACE in suspected ACS patients. Follow up closely for high-risk patients to MACE. An educational program should be made for nurses about the implementation of the heart score in the cardiac ED.