bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron-density informed effective and reliablede novomolecular design and lead optimization with ED2Mol
Authors: Li Mingyu , Song Kun , Zhao Mingzhu , You Gengshu , Zhong Jie , Zhao Mengxi , Li Arong , Chen Yu , Li Guobin , Kong Ying , Wei Jiacheng , Wang Zhaofu , Zhou Jiamin , Yang Hongbing , Ma Shichao , Zhang Hailong , Mélita Irakoze Loïca , Lin Weidong , Lu Yuhang , Yu Zhengtian , Lu Xun , He Jixiao , Zhao Yujun , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2024

Generative drug design opens new avenues for discovering novel compounds within the vast chemical space rather than conventional screening against limited compound libraries. However, the practical utility of the generated molecules is frequently constrained, as many designs prioritize a narrow range of pharmacological properties while neglecting physical reliability, which hinders the success rate of subsequent wet-lab evaluations. To address this, we propose ED2Mol, a deep learning-based approach that leverages fundamental electron density information to improvede novomolecular generation and lead optimization. The extensive evaluations across multiple benchmarks demonstrate that ED2Mol surpasses existing methods in terms of generation success rate and >97% physical reliability. It also facilitates automated lead optimization that is not fully implemented by other methods using fragment-based strategies. Furthermore, ED2Mol exhibits generalizability to more challenging, unseen allosteric pocket benchmarks, attaining consistent performance in bothde novomolecule generation and lead optimization. More importantly, ED2Mol has been applied to various real-world essential targets, successfully identifying wet-lab validated bioactive compounds, ranging from FGFR3 orthosteric inhibitors to CDC42 allosteric inhibitors and GCK allosteric activators. The directly generated binding modes of these compounds with target proteins are close to predictions through molecular docking and further validated via the X-ray co-crystal structure. All these results highlight ED2Mol’s potential as a useful tool in realistic drug design with enhanced effectiveness, physical reliability, and practical applicability.
Not all cross-modal responses are explained by face movements
Authors: Olsen Timothy , Hasenstaub Andrea
Published: December 2024

Recent work has claimed that most apparently cross-modal responses in sensory cortex are instead caused by the face movements evoked by stimuli of the non-dominant modality. We show that visual stimuli rarely trigger face movements in awake mice; when they occur, such movements do not explain visual responses in auditory cortex; and in simultaneous recordings, face movements drove artifactual cross-modal responses in visual but not auditory cortex. Thus face movements do not broadly explain cross-modal activity across all stimulus modalities.
Colchicine for Prevention of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Ballacci Federico , Giordano Federica , Conte Cristina , Telesca Alessandro , Collini Valentino , Imazio Massimo
Published: December 2024

Aims

Inflammation is a main pathophysiological driver in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Low-dose long-term colchicine for secondary prevention in patients with established ASCVD has been studied in multiple randomized trials in the last decade.

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of long-term low-dose colchicine for secondary prevention in patients with established ASCVD.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate studies reporting long-term outcomes in patients with ASCVD. We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases for relevant studies up to December 1, 2024. The primary outcome was the occurrence of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE), a composite of cardiovascular death (CVD), myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. Random-effects models were used to calculate pooled risk ratios (RR).

Results

Ten randomized clinical trials enrolling 22532 patients were identified. Addition of colchicine to standard medical treatment in patients with established ASCVD reduced the risk for MACE by 27% (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57 – 0.95), with a number needed to treat of 52. Colchicine was found to significantly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.72 - 0.96) and coronary revascularization (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65 - 0.94). There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortality, risk of serious gastrointestinal events, infections requiring hospitalization and cancer.

Conclusions

These findings support the use of long-term low-dose colchicine for secondary prevention of MACE in clinical practice.
Proteomic Insights into the Molecular Correlations Between Coronary Artery Disease and Peripheral Artery Disease in the Project Baseline Health Study
Authors: Tucker Aaliyah , Nguyen Maggie , Kottilil Kalyani , Kwee Lydia Coulter , Daubert Melissa A. , Pagidipati Neha , Douglas Pamela S. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Shah Svati H. ,   the Project Baseline Health Study Group
Published: December 2024

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) are common and dangerous conditions that are both driven by atherosclerosis. Despite sharing many major risk factors, their disease pathophysiology is not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to better distinguish common vs. unique biological pathways underlying CAD and PAD by proteomics profiling plasma samples from a subset of participants in the Project Baseline Health Study (PBHS). We identified 14 proteins associated with coronary artery calcium (CAC) score ≥100 and 39 proteins associated with the ankle brachial index (ABI) after covariate adjustment. Two proteins (complement component 7 [C7] and polymeric immunoglobulin receptor [PIGR]) were significantly associated with both CAC and ABI. Our work highlights the potential molecular pathways unique to these diseases, which could have therapeutic implications for personalizing clinical management.
Exclusive rare semileptonic decays of
B
and
Bc
mesons in the relativistic independent quark model
Authors: Dash Kalpalata , Dash P. C. , Panda R. N. , Kar Susmita , Barik N.
Published: December 2024

We investigate the exclusive rare semileptonic decays B(Bc)→K(D(s))ll¯/νlνl¯ (l=μ,

τ

) in the framework of relativistic independent quark model based on an average flavor independent confining potential in equally mixed scalar-vector harmonic form. The invariant weak form factors, parametrizing the matrix elements between participating meson states, are calculated in the parent meson rest frame. The momentum transfer dependence of the form factors is reliably determined in the whole accessible kinematical range qmin2≤0≤qmax2. Our predicted branching fractions for B→Kμ+μ−/τ+τ−(νlνl¯), Bc→D(Ds)μ+μ−, Bc→D(Ds)τ+τ−, and Bc→D(Ds)νlνl¯, obtained in order of 10−7(10−6), 10−9(10−7), 10−9(10−8), and 10−8(10−7), respectively, are in reasonable agreement with other Standard Model predictions and Lattice QCD results. The averaged values of the lepton polarization asymmetries for decay modes are obtained as ⟨PL(B→Kμ+μ−)⟩=−0.97, ⟨PL(Bc→D(s)μ+μ−)⟩=−0.972, ⟨PL(B→Kτ+τ−)⟩=−0.224, ⟨PL(Bc→Dτ+τ−)⟩=−0.275, and ⟨PL(Bc→Dsτ+τ−)⟩=−0.194.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
What factors influence consumers’ intention and food waste reduction perceptions in Indian restaurants?
Authors: Wani Mehraj Din , Dada Zubair Ahmad , Shah Shamim Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Food waste persists as a critical subject within global academic debates, with consumption identified as the primary stage of loss across both affluent and developing nations. Anchored in the adapted theory of planned behavior, this study examines the multifaceted determinants shaping consumer tendencies to reduce food waste while also exploring the nuanced roles of religious adherence and culinary preferences in influencing both consumer intentions and perceptions toward waste reduction. By dissecting these dynamics, the research endeavors to unravel the complex interplay of psychological, cultural and contextual factors, thereby enriching theoretical discourse and presenting actionable insights for systemic change.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 476 participants were acquired through an online survey to rigorously interrogate the proposed model. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) ensured construct validity, while structural equation modeling (SEM), utilizing SPSS and AMOS, disentangled the intricate interdependencies among latent constructs within the hypothesized framework.

Findings

The analysis reveals that consumer attitudes (β = 0.37) serve as the most salient predictor of their intention to curb food waste, with subjective norms (β = 0.23) demonstrating a comparatively modest effect. Concerning perceptual influences, environmental concern (β = 0.24) significantly shapes consumers’ perceptions toward waste reduction, while food taste (β = 0.15) exhibits the weakest influence in guiding such perceptions.

Originality/value

This study presents groundbreaking insights into tackling food waste at the consumption stage, particularly in restaurant settings. By strategically targeting the underlying drivers of food waste through well-crafted awareness programs, it lays the foundation for transformative changes in consumption behaviors, advancing sustainability and significantly reducing environmental footprints.
Does intraday high-frequency investor sentiment help forecast stock returns? Evidence from the MIDAS models
Authors: Chu Xiaojun , Gu Yating
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to enhance the predictability of stock returns. Existing studies have used investor sentiment to forecast stock returns. However, it is unclear whether high-frequency intraday investor sentiment can enhance the forecasting performance of low-frequency stock returns.

Design/methodology/approach

Thus, we employ the MIDAS model and the high-frequency intraday sentiment extracted from the Internet stock forum to forecast Chinese A-shares returns at daily frequency.

Findings

The results illustrate that high-frequency sentiment data are better than daily sentiment data in predicting daily stock returns, and the sentiment in non-trading hours has been proved superior to those in trading hours.

Originality/value

First, our study adds to the growing literature on investor sentiment. We are the first to construct a proxy for high-frequency investor sentiment using intraday postings collected from Chinese Internet stock forum. Second, we confirm that sentiment in non-trading hours has a stronger predictive ability than those in trading hours. Third, we also contribute to the performance comparison of MIDAS-class models. The good performance of U-MIDAS is confirmed in our empirical applications.
Improved shear strength prediction model for SFRC beams without stirrups
Authors: Ahmad Shoaib , He Liusheng
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The application of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) beams is limited in practice, partially due to the lack of accurate shear strength prediction models. This study aims to develop a reliable shear strength prediction model for SFRC beams.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an artificial neural network was employed to predict the shear strength of SFRC beams, utilizing a comprehensive database of 562 experimental studies. Multiple neural networks were established with varying hyperparameters, and their performance was evaluated using statistical parameters.

Findings

The neural network with 11 neurons showed superior results than other networks. The performance evaluation, efficiency and accuracy of the selected neural network were examined using margin of deviation, k-fold cross-validation, Shapley analysis, sensitivity analysis and parametric analysis. The proposed artificial neural network model accurately predicts the shear strength and outperforms other existing equations.

Originality/value

This research contributes to overcoming the limitations of existing prediction models for shear strength of SFRC beams without stirrups by developing a highly accurate model based on ANN. Utilizing a comprehensive database and rigorous evaluation techniques enhances the reliability and applicability of the proposed model in practical engineering applications.
Findings and implications from a global survey on paediatric education in occupational therapy academic programmes and paediatric practice in occupational therapy
Authors: Barlow Kate , Todorova Liliya , Mincheva Petya , Gandi Arti , Rata Marinela , Nafai Said , LeMonda Kathryn , Bates Allyson
Published: December 2024

Purpose

There is a need to identify the diversity and gaps in the educational and practice systems to better understand how to improve paediatric occupational therapy education and ongoing mentorship worldwide. This quantitative research aims to examine paediatric occupational therapy education from academics and clinicians through two separate surveys.

Design/methodology/approach

An educational survey was sent to the World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT)-approved programs in 78 countries to quantify educational and training hours provided in the paediatric field. An additional clinician survey was sent to occupational therapists to learn about their perspective on paediatric practice and continuing education.

Findings

The educational survey results from 56 WFOT programs in 32 countries indicated that the total percentage of academic curriculum specific to paediatric content was on average five percent. A four-year bachelor (n = 32) was the most prevalent entry level to the profession. Most of programs also indicated that more than 50% of occupational therapists in their respective countries work in paediatrics. The clinician survey (n = 141) had responses from 32 countries, with the majority working full time in paediatrics (n = 103, 72.5%). These results are consistent with the 2021 WFOT Education Survey.

Originality/value

From the clinician survey, paediatric feeding (70% of respondents) was the most requested area of continuing education, followed by transitions and positioning for play for children birth to three (18% of respondents). This will help guide future efforts for providing education and mentorship. As a result of both surveys, it was confirmed that more than half of occupational therapists are practicing in paediatrics across the globe. In response, academic curriculums should reflect the current practice trend; however, paediatric-specific education is relatively low.
Quantifying the presence of sustainability education and climate change in higher education: a bibliometric study
Authors: Bimo Irenius Dwinanto , Sulistyaningsih Endang , Inderawati Maria Magdalena Wahyuni
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the nature and trends in sustainability education and climate change (SECC) in higher education using a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature indexed in the Scopus database.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were extracted from the Scopus database using the keywords “sustainability education” and “climate change” to ensure extensive coverage. Total 14,465 research papers on both topics were analyzed using the VOSviewer software.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis reveals the mapping of scientific research across countries and the cooccurrence of research keywords, providing insights into research trends and future directions in SECC in higher education.

Practical implications

Based on the thematic map created to highlight future research directions on curricula for SECC in higher education, the analysis has identified several potential research areas, such as interdisciplinary research, transformative education, carbon footprint, students and higher education community well-being, climate change mitigation curriculum and behavioral studies.

Originality/value

This analysis offers epistemological foundations for generating knowledge and advancing curricula for SECC in higher education institutions.
Dividend policies surrounding CEO turnover
Authors: Alderman Jillian , Forsyth Joetta , Griffy-Brown Charla , Walton Richard
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study explores the relationship between US public firms’ dividend policies and CEO selection. Specifically, we examine the association between successor CEOs’ prior employment and firms’ payout policies around CEO turnover events.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Execucomp, we identify a sample of 1,021 S&P 1500 firms with CEO turnover events occurring from 2010 to 2016. We categorize successor CEOs by their prior position as a public insider (hired internally from the public firm), public outsider (hired from a different public firm) or private outsider (hired from a private firm). We investigate dividend policies around CEO turnovers using differences-in-means and probit analyses.

Findings

Firms that hired private CEOs were 11.0% less likely to have paid a dividend in the year prior to the CEO turnover. However, those firms that had paid a dividend in the prior year were 5.4% more likely to subsequently drop their dividend. This finding supports a distinct effect that is related to the successor CEOs’ prior experience managing private firms, rather than an “outsider” effect: payout policies of firms that hired public outsiders were no different from those that hired public insiders.

Originality/value

We show that public firms that hire private CEOs tend to have dividend policies similar to those of private firms. This evidence suggests that human capital developed at private firms is applied when CEOs transfer to public firms. We show that outsiders from public firms behave differently from outsiders from private firms, and we are the first to measure the frequency of each kind of CEO successor: public insiders, public outsiders and private outsiders. These findings suggest a method to indirectly study private firms using more readily available data from public firms led by private CEOs.
From slogans to actions: How does social media marketing and collectivism drive green consumption behaviour?
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Cham Tat-Huei
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence customers’ green consumption intention by integrating social cognitive theory (SCT) and the cognitive affective conative (CAC) framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaire was employed to collect data. Then, this study adopts artificial neural network (ANN) to check the robustness of partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) empirical results.

Findings

The findings confirm that social media marketing and collectivism are potent external stimuli to promote green consumption intention. Significant variables identified in the PLS-SEM analysis were used for ANN models, demonstrating the robustness of the PLS-SEM findings.

Originality/value

The primary theoretical contribution lies in the application of SCT theory and the CAC framework in the context of green consumption, an area that has been relatively underexplored in previous studies. Additionally, the study provides managerial implications for marketers by emphasising the significance of social media marketing and collectivism in influencing consumers’ cognition and affect.
Mission drift or simply failure? A cross-country pursuit of why social enterprises run by religious women in the Catholic Church tend to fail
Authors: Njiraini Nancy , Ndunge Angela , Mathuva David
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Despite social ministries and enterprises by Catholic sisters being established under stable foundation and for several years, there have been cases of failures or stalled projects. The purpose of this study was to examine whether this phenomenon is simply failure or a case of mission drift.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this objective, primary data drawn from four African countries, 59 congregations and 172 respondents were subjected to a mixed methods approach to find out what explained this failure. The 172 respondents were drawn from a set of congregational leaders.

Findings

The findings revealed some level of inactive projects largely in farming and agricultural production. The authors found that the identified 19 causes of social enterprise failures emanated both from internal, commercially driven to external, pro-social reasons.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study revealed the need to strategically review the utilisation of the resources at the disposal of the congregations. Capacity building, proper succession planning and setting the right tone at the top were critical imperatives congregational leaders need to pay attention to minimise project failures and mission drift. Finally, the study called for innovative funding models together with a change in mindset about the sustainability of the social enterprises.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is perhaps the first to focus on social enterprises run by Catholic sisters with a view towards establishing why they tend to fail.
Generational Renewal and Farm Succession: Insights from Ireland
Authors: Loughrey Jason , Shin Mika , Dillon Emma , Kinsella Anne
Published: December 2024

We use Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) data to establish a better understanding about the age profile of people engaged in farming in Ireland and the related issue of farm succession. Insights are drawn from related research on the potential for farm partnerships to assist in improving generational renewal. The findings from the Teagasc NFS indicate a more complex relationship between economic performance and farm succession than is typically portrayed in the economic literature. The results indicate that in the non‐dairy cattle system, the proportion of farm operators with an identified successor is lower for viable farms relative to non‐viable farms and lower relative to viable farms in other farming systems. Cluster analysis of a sample of dairy farms indicates that the presence of young people in the household is just as important as farm economic viability in determining whether or not a farm successor is identified. The Teagasc NFS analysis indicates that many farms have young people contributing in terms of labour but delayed succession means fewer young farmers taking the role of farm manager. There is scope to increase the use of Farm Partnerships as pathways for younger farmers to progress from contributing labour on the farm to taking on a management role in the farm.
Prevalence, Distribution and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Enterobacteriaceae and Non‐Fermenting Gram‐Negative Bacilli Isolated From Environmental Samples in a Veterinary Clinical Hospital in Madrid, Spain
Authors: Pérez Jiménez Jesús Antonio , Penelo Hidalgo Silvia , Baquero Artigao María‐Rosario , Ortiz‐Díez Gustavo , Ayllón Santiago Tania
Published: December 2024

Managing infections caused by multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli is a major public health concern, particularly in hospitals where surfaces can act as reservoirs for resistant microorganisms. Identifying these bacteria in hospital environments is crucial for improving healthcare safety. This study aimed to analyse environmental samples from a veterinary hospital to identify prevalent microorganisms and detect antimicrobial resistance patterns. A total of 183 surface samples were collected from 26 areas at the Veterinary Clinical Hospital of Alfonso X el Sabio University in Madrid. The isolated strains were identified, and susceptibility profiles were determined via the disk diffusion method. Clonality analysis was performed using pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis. In total, 109 strains were isolated: 76.15% from the Enterobacteriaceae family and 23.85% non‐fermenting Gram‐negative bacilli. The isolates included Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Escherichia and Pseudomonas species, which could include high‐risk clones, given their ability to carry several antimicrobial resistance genes. The equine area had the highest number of isolates (n = 71), accounting for 65% of the total. High resistance indices were observed against at least five of the 16 antibiotics tested, indicating significant multidrug resistance. Clonality analysis suggested potential cross‐transmission within the facility. This study sampled hospital surfaces but not personnel or animals, making contamination sources unclear. Without resampling, the effectiveness of cleaning protocols remains uncertain. Results suggest that hospital staff play a key role in bacterial transmission. The lack of specialised preventive measures in veterinary hospitals highlights a need for further research and improvement.
Persistent urticarial eruption preceding systemic features of adult‐onset Still's disease: A case report
Authors: Kaur Amreeta , Bavanendrakumar Mathuja , Oon Shereen , Veysey Emma
Published: December 2024

Adult‐onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare autoinflammatory systemic disorder classically characterised by inflammatory polyarthritis, daily fevers and a transient asymptomatic salmon‐pink maculopapular rash that typically arises with the onset of fevers. We report a case of AOSD presenting with a severely pruritic urticarial eruption starting 6 weeks prior to the onset of fever and arthritis and complicated by macrophage activation syndrome. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of diverse cutaneous manifestations of AOSD to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment to improve disease outcomes.
Xs we share: Context similarity, culture, and the diffusion of populism
Authors: Wiesehomeier Nina , Düpont Nils , Ruth‐Lovell Saskia P.
Published: December 2024

Do populist ideas travel across borders? Anecdotal evidence suggests as much, yet so far we lack a systematic assessment of whether diffusion takes place, and if so under which conditions. We argue that context similarity enables the diffusion of populism among parties as it eases the adaption of populist framing of perceived grievances into the local context. Using a dyadic approach, we analyze diffusion effects among 923 parties in 67 countries from 1970 to 2018. We find that similar levels of political and economic exclusion foster learning from and emulating other parties abroad. We also uncover conditional effects for learning from other parties facing similar levels of income inequality or public sector corruption that hinge on a cultural prescreening. Combined, our results have important implications for a better understanding of diffusion processes in general and the spread of populist ideas around the globe in particular.
Differential expression of metabolic enzymes in testicular germ cell tumors: The impact of glycolytic metabolism in embryonal carcinoma histotype
Authors: Cantante Mariana , Miranda‐Gonçalves Vera , Tavares Nuno Tiago , Guimarães Rita , Braga Isaac , Maurício Joaquina , Acosta Andres M. , Henrique Rui , Jerónimo Carmen , Lobo João
Published: December 2024

Background

Testicular germ cell tumors are the most common solid malignancies in young men, with increasing incidence worldwide. Broadly classified into seminomas and non‐seminomas, they exhibit distinct biological behaviors and responses to treatment. Although metabolic reprogramming is an acknowledged cancer hallmark, metabolic pathways in testicular germ cell tumors remain poorly understood.

Objectives

This study investigates the differential expression of metabolic markers (GLUT‐1, MCT1, MCT4, LDHA, HIF‐1α) and the epigenetic enzyme KDM3A across various testicular germ cell tumor subtypes, aiming to understand how glycolytic metabolism is related to each histotype and how it may impact tumor aggressiveness, correlating with patient outcomes.

Materials and methods

The study involved 111 testicular germ cell tumor individual tumor components from 90 patients diagnosed and treated at a comprehensive cancer center. Immunohistochemistry was used to ascertain biomarker expression, with a combined score of percentage of stained tumor cells and intensity of staining. In silico analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas database was performed for additional validation, using cBioPortal. Statistical analyses included Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, and anova tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Significant differences in the expression of metabolic markers across testicular germ cell tumor subtypes were disclosed. Embryonal carcinomas showed significantly higher expression of glycolytic markers (GLUT‐1, MCT1, MCT4, LDHA) compared to other histotypes, suggesting heightened glycolytic activity. KDM3A depicted an inverse pattern, being significantly more expressed in seminomas. HIF‐1α expression was generally low across all histological subtypes. Testicular germ cell tumors with necrosis showed higher expression of the metabolic players investigated.

Discussion and conclusion

We highlighted distinct metabolic profiles among testicular germ cell tumor subtypes, particularly the prominent glycolytic activity in embryonal carcinomas, with higher hypoxia and reliance on lactate transport. Metabolic reprogramming in embryonal carcinoma may underlie the high proliferation of this tumor subtype, which frequently discloses necrosis. These findings suggest that targeted agents such as MCT1 inhibitors may be particularly useful for treating testicular germ cell tumors containing high proportion of embryonal carcinoma.
Simultaneous Remote Laparoscopic Training for Trainees Among Multiple Institutions: Can Remote Coaching Replace On‐Site Coaching?
Authors: Baba Kenji , Hozaka Yuto , Tanabe Kan , Wada Masumi , Kuroshima Naoki , Takara Kinjo , Yoshidome Shizuka , Iio Shunya , Okubo Keishi , Uenosono Yoshikazu , Shimonosono Masakata , Kawasaki Yota , Sasaki Ken , Arigami Takaaki , Ohtsuka Takao
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Regional disparities in medical practice between urban and rural areas in Japan represent a critical issue, and extend to the field of surgical education. To address these disparities, we evaluated the effectiveness of simultaneous remote coaching across multiple facilities using a standardized laparoscopic training method.

Methods

A total of 28 trainees from a university hospital and 3 rural hospitals were categorized into remote and on‐site coaching groups. The training curriculum included lectures, practical training, and assessments, conducted for 1 h per week using three sessions. The primary endpoint of the study was the change in time for ligation of one suture between the on‐site and remote coaching groups, expressed as the median of the reduction suture time rate (RTR). Secondary endpoints included the RTR categorized by years of graduation and the results of a questionnaire survey of participants.

Results

Participants included 19 trainees in postgraduate year (PGY) 1–2 and 9 those in PGY 3–5. The median suture ligation time for the first attempt was 145 s (remote: 136 s vs. on‐site: 160 s; p = 0.33) and that for the third attempt was 51 s (remote: 33 s vs. direct: 52 s; p = 0.91). The median RTR was 57%, with no significant difference observed between the remote and on‐site coaching groups (43.2% vs. 71.2%, p = 0.26). The trainees' ratings for the training were generally favorable, with median ratings of 4 (range: 3–5) for the content of practical skills and 5 (4, 5) for the distance learning aspect, based on a 5‐point Likert scale.

Conclusion

Simultaneous remote laparoscopic training could be effective in reducing disparities in surgical education.
Clinicopathological findings of melioidosis in captive red‐legged pademelons (Thylogale stigmatica) in northern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Bowater RO , Mackie T , Picard J , Huisman I , Hayes L , Taylor JD
Published: December 2024

Background

Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an important disease that is endemic in areas of northern Australia and can cause a wide range of clinical signs in people and animals. There is limited published data on the disease in marsupials.

Case report

Two captive red‐legged pademelons (Thylogale stigmatica) with collective signs of lethargy, dysphagia and bloody oral discharge were submitted for necropsy and showed variations in pathology findings ranging from multifocal abscessation in various tissues to evidence of fulminant septicaemia. In both cases Burkholderia pseudomallei was confirmed by bacterial culture and qPCR.

Conclusion

This report details the first report of melioidosis in captive red‐legged pademelons (Thylogale stigmatica) and describes the variations in clinical signs and pathological findings that were encountered with the disease. More research is needed to better understand melioidosis in marsupials to aid clinicians in making a prompt diagnosis.
Safety of BI 1358894 in patients with major depressive disorder: Results and learnings from a phase II randomized decentralized clinical trial
Authors: Reist Christopher , Li Peide , Le Nguyen Thuy , Süssmuth Sigurd D.
Published: December 2024

The feasibility of conducting a fully remote, interventional, phase II decentralized clinical trial (DCT) was investigated in major depressive disorder (MDD). Key learnings were collated to improve future DCTs. A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, DCT enrolled adult MDD patients with inadequate response to first‐line antidepressant monotherapy (ongoing ≥8 weeks) and a Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale total score (MADRS) ≥22 at screening. Patients were randomized 1:1 to BI 1358894 125 mg or placebo daily for 6 weeks remotely. Safety parameters, primary end point (change from baseline in MADRS at Week 6), and patient experience were assessed. The DCT was considered feasible if the trial protocol could be successfully executed. Overall, DCT procedures were successfully executed per protocol. However, despite achieving a vast patient outreach, the trial was terminated early due to deficient enrollment. Of the 136 patients who consented for enrollment and underwent screening, 45 were randomized and 43 received treatment (BI 1358894, n = 20; placebo, n = 23); 97.7% of patients completed the trial. Patients had a mean (SD) age of 42.2 (13.1) years and most (83.7%) were female. Adverse events were reported by 86.0% of patients (BI 1358894, 90.0%; placebo, 82.6%). Most patients (88%) reported a positive experience with the DCT. Key learnings related to the impact of stringent eligibility criteria, recruitment optimization strategies, plus the benefits and limitations of digital technologies. A fully remote, interventional DCT was feasible in MDD, and was well perceived by trial participants. Learnings related to recruitment optimization and trial design should be considered for future interventional DCTs.
Exploring the cost–carbon trade‐off in using a mixed fleet of hydrogen trucks and diesel trucks
Authors: Guo Siqiang , Kutanoglu Erhan , Goodarzi Shadi , Singh Manjeet
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen trucks (HTs) offer promising potential for decarbonizing the transportation sector. Based on current technologies, they have significant advantages over electric trucks (ETs) in terms of range, refueling time, and performance in cold conditions. However, HTs are costly, and there are insufficient hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs). Gradually integrating HTs into the existing diesel truck (DT) fleet is a practical approach for many freight logistics companies. In this article, we formulate a mathematical model to route a mixed fleet of HTs and DTs, and we propose an algorithm called the curve descent search (CDS) to generate the Pareto set based on cost and carbon emissions. We find that CDS can generate better Pareto sets compared to existing algorithms in the literature. We use CDS to comprehensively explore the cost–carbon trade‐off in using a mixed fleet. This question differentiates our study from previous research and is motivated by discussions with one of the largest third‐party logistics companies in North America. Detailed experiments reveal important managerial insights, such as: (1) Achieving a significant reduction in carbon emissions (e.g., a 30% reduction compared to the current diesel fleet) does not need a very dense refueling infrastructure; (2) The cost–carbon trade‐off for mixed fleets is relatively insensitive to variations in customer density and demand, suggesting that HTs can be applicable across a wide range of scenarios (including different sectors or regions); and (3) Although ETs are cheaper to use compared to HTs, their shorter range limits their competitiveness in terms of decarbonization efficiency and customer service.
Whom You Connect With Matters: Innovation Collaboration Network Centrality and Innovative Productivity in Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhang Cui , Zhang Dandan , Pan Yu , Wang Yanzhen
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces eigenvector centrality to capture partner heterogeneity and examines its impact on urban innovation. By constructing and empirically testing a co‐invention patent database of Chinese cities over the period from 2014 to 2018, we find that eigenvector centrality has a positive effect on urban innovation. Technology breadth and technology depth increases are two important underlying mechanisms. A counterfactual analysis shows that laggard cities with low levels of innovation can increase their innovative productivity by establishing collaborative links with other cities, especially with well‐connected cities, which indicates the potential gains from policies that improve the inter‐city innovation collaboration network structure. And this result is further confirmed by the comparative analysis of Erdos and Chifeng.
Status of robotic surgery in pediatric genitourinary tumors: A systematic review
Authors: Yadav Priyank , Alshammari Dheidan , Ahmad Ihtisham , Ansari Mohd S. , Gundeti Mohan S.
Published: December 2024

Innovative surgical approaches are crucial in pediatric oncology to enhance treatment outcomes and minimize morbidity. Robotic‐assisted surgery (RAS) has shown promise in both surgical precision and recovery in pediatric patients. This systematic review aims to address this gap by examining the current role and impact of RAS in managing pediatric genitourinary tumors, focusing on its feasibility, safety, and patient outcomes. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023464820). We included studies involving pediatric patients undergoing RAS for genitourinary tumors, focusing on outcomes like conversion rates, resection completeness, and complications. Studies were identified through searches in PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus until October 2023. Study quality and bias were assessed using ROBINS‐I for cohort studies and Joanna Briggs Institute tools for case reports and series. Of 2119 citations, 42 studies were included, comprising 29 case reports, five case series, and eight retrospective cohort studies. Robotic‐assisted renal surgeries were most common, with favorable outcomes in terms of resection completeness and low recurrence rates. Adrenal, bladder, and retroperitoneal surgeries also showed promising results, although rare instances required conversion to open surgery. Collaborative efforts and perioperative aids like intraoperative ultrasound and three‐dimensional modeling were crucial for success. This work is limited by the lack of large cohort studies and addressing the learning curve associated with these procedures. RAS shows promise in treating pediatric genitourinary tumors, offering precise resections and favorable outcomes, warranting further research and refinement.
Mindfulness and Voice Behaviour: A Diary Study of Ego Depletion and Work‐Related Self‐Efficacy Among Nurses
Authors: Yuan Xiaolong , Ding Qian , Yang Yongyong , Wang Feng , Li Xiujun , Li Jiameng , Shi Wendian
Published: December 2024

Aim

This study examined how mindfulness affects voice behaviour by altering nurses' daily resource levels.

Background

Mindfulness is an essential personal resource; it can enhance the accumulation of resources and empower individuals to engage in adaptive resource regulation. This study suggests that on days when nurses' mindfulness is higher than average, they may accumulate more resources that facilitate their voice behaviour.

Design

We employed an intensive longitudinal design in the form of a daily diary. Participants were asked to complete both one‐time and daily surveys.

Methods

We collected data between March and September 2024, and 119 nurses were tracked over seven workdays. We tested the hypothesised relationships using a multilevel analysis.

Results

Mindfulness was positively related to nurses' voice behaviour; this relationship was mediated by work‐related self‐efficacy (WRSE). Moreover, ego depletion and WRSE played a chain‐mediating role between mindfulness and nurses' voice behaviour.

Conclusion

Mindfulness enhances nurses' voice behaviour as well as an individual's resource level and enables him/her to obtain more resources through voice behaviour.

Impact

Given the positive impact of mindfulness, we advocate for expanding mindfulness training for nurses to boost their resource levels and consequently encourage voice behaviour. In addition, given the mediating role of ego depletion and WRSE, we emphasise the importance of identifying and mitigating factors that contribute to nurses' ego depletion. Furthermore, we call for training on professional skills to be provided to enhance nurses' confidence in their abilities.

Patient or Public Contribution

There are no patient or public contributions. This study did not involve patients or the public in the design and implementation process because it focused on investigating the work behaviour of nurses, where the involvement of patients and the public may not have been essential.
Are ADHD trajectories shaped by the social environment? A longitudinal study of maternal influences on the preschool origins of delay aversion
Authors: Chan Wendy W.Y. , Shum Kathy Kar‐man , Downs Johnny , Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly attributed to neuro‐cognitive deficits of genetic and/or prenatal/perinatal environmental origins. Sonuga‐Barke proposed an alternative formulation, suggesting that ADHD behaviors are functional expressions of delay aversion—a strong motivational disposition to avoid or escape negative affective states evoked by delay. It is hypothesized that the strength of this disposition, though neuro‐biologically rooted, is exacerbated by early negative social interactions during waiting‐related encounters. This paper reports findings from an initial proof‐of‐concept study that specifically tests this hypothesis in a nonclinical sample.

Methods

Preschoolers (n = 112; mean age = 46.2 months) and their parents from London, UK, and Hong Kong participated in a longitudinal study. The Parent–Child Delay Frustration Task (PC‐DeFT) and two nonwaiting control tasks were administered at baseline. Children's performance, behavioral and emotional responses, and parents' reactions were observed. Teachers rated children's ADHD behaviors and delay aversion at baseline and follow‐up (12–18 months later).

Results

At baseline, children's maladaptive performance and parental negative reactions during the PC‐DeFT were correlated with each other and with teacher ratings of ADHD and delay aversion. Negative parental reactions during the PC‐DeFT at baseline predicted an increase in teacher‐rated ADHD behaviors at follow‐up, but similar associations were not observed for baseline parental responses in the nonwaiting tasks. The increase in child ADHD symptoms associated with negative parental reactions at baseline was statistically mediated by delay aversion. These longitudinal effects were consistent across the UK and HK samples.

Conclusions

The findings provide the first evidence that parent's negative reactions to preschooler's attempts to manage delay are associated with increases in ADHD behaviors overtime, and linked to delay aversion increases. They underscore the potential significance of the early social environment as a contributor to developmental trajectory of ADHD behaviors. Future studies with clinical samples over an extended time‐frame using a range of different aversive environments (i.e. difficult tasks to complete) are indicated.
Interleukin‐37 promotes wound healing in diabetic mice by inhibiting the MAPK/NLRP3 pathway
Authors: Cui Qiaoli , Zhang Zhenming , Qin Lang , Teng Zhaolin , Wang Zhihong , Wu Wei , Fan Linling , Su Jing , Hao Yexuan , Qin Ji , Zhang Li , Wang Qi , Zhuang Yuan , Zheng Hangping , Zhang Shuo , Geng Xiang , Zhu Lei , Chen Yijian , Lu Bin , Li Yiming , Zhu Xiaoming
Published: December 2024

Aims/Introduction

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a prevalent complication of diabetes characterized by heightened inflammation and impaired wound‐healing processes. Interleukin‐37 (IL‐37) is a natural suppressor of innate inflammation. Here, we aim to investigate the potential of IL‐37 in enhancing the healing process of diabetic wounds.

Materials and Methods

The skin samples of DFU and non‐diabetic patients during foot and ankle orthopedic surgery were collected. The IL‐37 transgenic mice (IL‐37Tg) were created using CRISPR/Cas‐mediated genome engineering. Mice were administered streptozotocin (STZ, 150 mg/kg) to induce a diabetic model. After 4 weeks, an equidistant full‐thickness excisional wound measuring 8 mm was created on the central back of each mouse and allowed to heal naturally. Body weight and blood glucose levels were measured weekly. The wound area was measured, and skin samples were collected on Day 10 for further Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and WB detection and RNA sequencing analysis.

Results

The proinflammation cytokines such as TNF‐α and IL‐1β and the MAPK signaling pathway were significantly increased in the wound margin of DFU patients. Compared with diabetic mice, diabetic IL‐37Tg mice showed a significantly accelerated healing process. The enriched signaling pathways in RNA sequencing included cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, TNF signaling pathway, and NOD‐like receptor signaling pathway. Through QPCR and WB detection, we found that IL‐37 could inhibit the activated MAPK and NOD‐like signaling pathway, reducing TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and NLRP3 expression in the diabetic wound.

Conclusions

IL‐37 promotes skin wound healing in diabetic mice, providing a new possible target for treating diabetic wounds.
Elucidation of the clinical traits of diabetic chorea through a questionnaire survey of people with diabetic chorea from 59 Japanese hospitals
Authors: Arakawa Naoko , Aoyama Tomohisa , Suwanai Hirotsugu , Toda Gotaro , Takamoto Iseki , Okazaki Yukiko , Kadowaki Takashi , Yamauchi Toshimasa
Published: December 2024

Aims

Diabetic chorea refers to sudden involuntary movements developing in people with diabetes mellitus and is known to occur mainly in those with severe hyperglycemia. We conducted a questionnaire survey of case‐reporting facilities in Japan to elucidate their clinical characteristics.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Ichushi databases for case reports published from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017, using “diabetes” and “chorea” as keywords, and sent a questionnaire to the reporting institutions.

Results

Data from a total of 64 cases were included in this study. While most cases had severe hyperglycemia at the onset of diabetic chorea, hypoglycemia/improvement of the plasma glucose served as the trigger for the symptom in 14 cases (21.9%). The Early Remission Group (≤6 months) consisted of 39 cases (60.9%), while the Prolonged Partial Remission Group (>6 months) included 25 cases (39.1%). In the Prolonged Partial Remission Group (>6 months), there were more cases with widespread involuntary movement symptoms, a higher number of cases exhibiting typical imaging findings, and a greater incidence of chorea onset after the initiation of antidiabetic treatment, including hypoglycemia.

Conclusions

Most reported cases of diabetic chorea in Japan were elderly persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus and severe hyperglycemia, although there were also some cases in which the symptom developed in the setting of hypoglycemia. It has been suggested that rapid plasma glucose correction and hypoglycemia might be associated with the risk of development and prognosis of diabetic chorea.