bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quadruplet regimens for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ebraheem Mohammad S. , Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Rochwerg Bram , Visram Alissa , Mohyuddin Ghulam Rehman , Venner Christopher P. , Sandhu Irwindeep , McCurdy Arleigh , Facon Thierry , Mateos Maria-Victoria , Mian Hira
Published: September 2024

Quadruplet regimens (anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies [mAbs] with proteasome inhibitor [PI] and immunomodulatory drugs [IMiDs]) are increasingly being investigated in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). The objective of our study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to measure the efficacy and toxicity of quadruplet regimens used in NDMM. Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, clinical trial registries, and meeting libraries from inception to 24 January 2024, in addition to American Society of Clinical Oncology conference abstracts 2024, were searched using terms reflecting multiple myeloma and components of the quadruplet regimen. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared backbone regimens consisting of a PI and IMiD vs the same regimen plus an anti-CD38 mAb in NDMM. We identified 7 RCTs including 3716 patients. Compared with triplets, quadruplets increase the overall response rate (ORR; relative risk [RR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.05) and progression-free survival (PFS; hazard ratio [HR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.46-0.66). Quadruplets increase the rates of minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity at 10–5 (RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.23-1.58) and 10–6 (RR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.36-1.94). Quadruplets improve overall survival (OS; HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.53-0.79). There was a slight increase in the rates of grade 3 to 4 infections (RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.07-1.39) noted with quadruplets compared with triplets. Overall, in this meta-analysis, quadruplets were associated with improved efficacy including ORR, MRD negativity, PFS, and OS, with a slight increase in infection rates. Quadruplet regimens represent a new standard of care, particularly in transplant-eligible NDMM.
A multiscale approach to understanding the shared blue-orange flower color polymorphism in two Lysimachia species
Authors: Sánchez-Cabrera Mercedes , Narbona Eduardo , Arista Montserrat , Ortiz Pedro L. , Jiménez-López Francisco J. , Fuller Amelia , Carter Benjamin , Whittall Justen B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Polymorphisms are common in nature, but they are rarely shared among closely related species. Polymorphisms could originate through convergence, ancestral polymorphism, or introgression. Although shared neutral genomic variation across species is commonplace, few examples of shared functional traits exist. The blue-orange petal color polymorphisms in two closely related species, Lysimachia monelli and L. arvensis were investigated with UV-vis reflectance spectra, flavonoid biochemistry, and transcriptome comparisons followed by climate niche analysis.

Results

Similar color morphs between species have nearly identical reflectance spectra, flavonoid biochemistry, and ABP gene expression patterns. Transcriptome comparisons reveal two orange-specific genes directly involved in both blue-orange color polymorphisms: DFR-2 specificity redirects flux from the malvidin to the pelargonidin while BZ1-2 stabilizes the pelargonidin with glucose, producing the orange pelargonidin 3-glucoside. Moreover, a reduction of F3’5’H expression in orange petals also favors pelargonidin production. The climate niches for each color morph are the same between the two species for three temperature characteristics but differ for four precipitation variables.

Conclusions

The similarities in reflectance spectra, biochemistry, and ABP genes suggest that a single shift from blue-to-orange shared by both lineages is the most plausible explanation. Our evidence suggests that this persistent flower color polymorphism may represent an ancestrally polymorphic trait that has transcended speciation, yet future analyses are necessary to confidently reject the alternative hypotheses.
Identification of quantitative trait loci and candidate genes for pod shatter resistance in Brassica carinata
Authors: Raman Rosy , Zhang Zun Xu , Diffey Simon , Qiu Yu , Niu Yan , Zou Jun , Raman Harsh
Published: September 2024

Background

Understanding the genetic control of pod shatter resistance and its association with pod length is crucial for breeding improved pod shatter resistance and reducing pre-harvest yield losses due to extensive shattering in cultivars of Brassica species. In this study, we evaluated a doubled haploid (DH) mapping population derived from an F1 cross between two Brassica carinata parental lines Y-BcDH64 and W-BcDH76 (YWDH), originating from Ethiopia and determined genetic bases of variation in pod length and pod shatter resistance, measured as rupture energy. The YWDH population, its parental lines and 11 controls were grown across three years for genetic analysis.

Results

By using three quantitative trait loci (QTL) analytic approaches, we identified nine genomic regions on B02, B03, B04, B06, B07 and C01 chromosomes for rupture energy that were repeatedly detected across three growing environments. One of the QTL on chromosome B07, flanked with DArTseq markers 100,046,735 and 100,022,658, accounted for up to 27.6% of genetic variance in rupture energy. We observed no relationship between pod length and rupture energy, suggesting that pod length does not contribute to variation in pod shatter resistance. Comparative mapping identified six candidate genes; SHP1 on B6, FUL and MAN on chromosomes B07, IND and NST2 on B08, and MAN7 on C07 that mapped within 0.2 Mb from the QTL for rupture energy.

Conclusion

The results suggest that favourable alleles of stable QTL on B06, B07, B08 and C01 for pod shatter resistance can be incorporated into the shatter-prone B. carinata and its related species to improve final seed yield at harvest.
Long-term antibody response after the third dose of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in MASLD patients
Authors: Cui Jin , Wang Lianbang , Ghavamian Armin , Li Xuemei , Wang Gongzheng , Wang Tao , Huang Min , Ru Qi , Zhao Xinya
Published: September 2024

Background

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) patients are at an elevated risk of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The objective of this study was to assess antibody responses and safety profiles six months after the third dose of the inactivated acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine in MASLD patients.

Methods

This study included MASLD patients and healthy volunteers without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Blood samples were collected six months after receiving the third dose of the inactivated vaccine to measure the levels of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and anti-spike IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.

Results

A total of 335 participants (214 MASLD patients and 121 healthy volunteers) were enrolled. The seroprevalence of NAb was 61.7% (132 of 214) in MASLD patients and 74.4% (90 of 121) in healthy volunteers, which was a significant difference (p = 0.018). Statistically significant differences in IgG seroprevalence were also observed between MASLD patients and healthy volunteers (p = 0.004). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the severity of MASLD (OR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.32–6.68; p = 0.009) and age (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01–1.06; p = 0.004) were independent risk factors for NAb negativity in MASLD patients. Moderate/severe MASLD patients had a lower NAb seroprevalence than mild MASLD patients (45.0% vs. 65.5%, p = 0.016).

Conclusion

Lower antibody responses were observed in MASLD patients six months after their third dose of the inactivated vaccine than in healthy volunteers, providing further assistance in monitoring patients who are more vulnerable to hypo-responsiveness to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
Experiences with home monitoring technology in older adults with traumatic brain injury: a qualitative study
Authors: Parkinson Megan E. , Smith Rebecca M. , Tanious Karen , Curtis Francesca , Doherty Rebecca , Colon Lorena , Chena Lucero , Horrocks Sophie C. , Harrison Matthew , Fertleman Michael B. , Dani Melanie , Barnaghi Payam , Sharp David J. ,   the UK Dementia Research Institute Care Research & Technology Research Group, Li Lucia M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Home monitoring systems utilising artificial intelligence hold promise for digitally enhanced healthcare in older adults. Their real-world use will depend on acceptability to the end user i.e. older adults and caregivers. We explored the experiences of adults over the age of 60 and their social and care networks with a home monitoring system installed on hospital discharge after sustaining a moderate/severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), a growing public health concern.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was taken to explore experiential data from older adults and their caregivers as part of a feasibility study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 patients and 6 caregivers (N = 12) at 6-month study exit. Data were analysed using Framework analysis. Potential factors affecting acceptability and barriers and facilitators to the use of home monitoring in clinical care and research were examined.

Results

Home monitoring was acceptable to older adults with TBI and their caregivers. Facilitators to the use of home monitoring were perceived need for greater support after hospital discharge, the absence of sound and video recording, and the peace of mind provided to care providers. Potential barriers to adoption were reliability, lack of confidence in technology and uncertainty at how data would be acted upon to improve safety at home.

Conclusions

Remote monitoring approaches are likely to be acceptable, especially if patients and caregivers see direct benefit to their care. We identified key barriers and facilitators to the use of home monitoring in older adults who had sustained TBI, which can inform the development of home monitoring for research and clinical use. For sustained use in this demographic the technology should be developed in conjunction with older adults and their social and care networks.
Pneumocystis jirovecii and Nocardia pneumonia in a middle-aged male with Nephrotic syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Yaqing , He Xiaojie , Liu Shuangyan , Li Xiaodong
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common chronic kidney disease that is often accompanied by a state of immunodeficiency. Immunosuppression increases the risk of infections, with Pneumocystis jirovecii and Nocardia brasiliensis being two opportunistic pathogens that can cause severe infections in patients with compromised immune function. This study presents a case of a middle-aged male patient with NS concurrently infected with Pneumocystis jirovecii and Nocardia brasiliensis. It aims to synthesize the pertinent diagnostic approaches and treatment experiences. Notably, there have been no reported cases of NS occurring simultaneously with both Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and Nocardia pneumonia.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old male farmer presented to the hospital with a one-week history of persistent fever, cough, and sputum production. His maximum body temperature was recorded at 39 °C, and he produced yellow viscous sputum. This patient had a one-year history of NS, managed with long-term oral corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide therapy. Admission chest computed tomography displayed interstitial changes in both lungs. After failing to detect any pathogens through routine etiological tests, we successfully identified Nocardia brasiliensis, Pneumocystis jirovecii, and Lodderomyces elongisporus using bronchoscopy-guided sputum samples through metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) technology. Subsequently, we initiated a combined treatment regimen for the patient using trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, meropenem, and moxifloxacin, which yielded remarkable therapeutic outcomes.

Conclusion

The adoption and promotion of mNGS technologies have significantly resolved the difficulty in early pathogen detection, guiding clinicians from empirical to genomic diagnosis, achieving prevention before treatment, and thereby enhancing patient survival rates.
RNA silencing is a key regulatory mechanism in the biocontrol fungus Clonostachys rosea-wheat interactions
Authors: Piombo Edoardo , Vetukuri Ramesh Raju , Konakalla Naga Charan , Kalyandurg Pruthvi B. , Sundararajan Poorva , Jensen Dan Funck , Karlsson Magnus , Dubey Mukesh
Published: September 2024

Background

Small RNA (sRNAs)- mediated RNA silencing is emerging as a key player in host-microbe interactions. However, its role in fungus-plant interactions relevant to biocontrol of plant diseases is yet to be explored. This study aimed to investigate Dicer (DCL)-mediated endogenous and cross-kingdom gene expression regulation in the biocontrol fungusClonostachys roseaand wheat roots during interactions.

Results

C. roseaΔdcl2strain exhibited significantly higher root colonization than the WT, whereas no significant differences were observed for Δdcl1strains. Dual RNA-seq revealed the upregulation of CAZymes, membrane transporters, and effector coding genes inC. rosea, whereas wheat roots responded with the upregulation of stress-related genes and the downregulation of growth-related genes. The expression of many of these genes was downregulated in wheat during the interaction with DCL deletion strains, underscoring the influence of fungal DCL genes on wheat defense response. sRNA sequencing identified 18 wheat miRNAs responsive toC. rosea, and three were predicted to target theC. roseapolyketide synthase genepks29. Two of these miRNAs (mir_17532_x1 and mir_12061_x13) were observed to enterC. roseafrom wheat roots with fluorescence analyses and to downregulate the expression ofpks29, showing plausible cross-kingdom RNA silencing of theC. roseagene by wheat miRNAs.

Conclusions

We provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the interaction between biocontrol fungi and plant roots. Moreover, the study sheds light on the role of sRNA-mediated gene expression regulation inC. rosea-wheat interactions and provides preliminary evidence of cross-kingdom RNA silencing between plants and biocontrol fungi.
The effectiveness of reduction in alcohol consumption achieved by the provision of non-alcoholic beverages associates with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dobashi Shohei , Kawaida Kyoko , Saito Go , Owaki Yukiko , Yoshimoto Hisashi
Published: September 2024

Background

The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is commonly used in clinical settings to assess the severity of alcohol-related problems, with the effectiveness of alcohol reduction interventions varying across this spectrum. In a recent study, we demonstrated that a 12-week intervention involving the provision of free non-alcoholic beverages reduced alcohol consumption among heavy drinkers for up to 8 weeks post-intervention. However, it remains unclear whether this effect was consistent across different AUDIT score ranges. Therefore, this secondary analysis aimed to examine whether the severity of alcohol-related problems, as indicated by AUDIT scores, influences the effectiveness of non-alcoholic beverage provision in reducing alcohol consumption.

Methods

This was a single-center, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study. Participants were Japanese individuals who frequently consumed large quantities of alcohol (at least 40 g/day for men and 20 g/day for women) but were not diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention group received free non-alcoholic beverages once every 4 weeks over a 12-week period (24 bottles of 350 mL per case, up to three cases per session, for a total of three sessions). Alcohol and non-alcoholic beverage consumption over the previous 4 weeks was tracked using a drinking diary. For this secondary analysis, participants were categorized into four groups based on their AUDIT scores (group 1: ≤ 7 points, group 2: 8–11 points, group 3: 12–14 points, and group 4: ≥ 15 points), and changes in alcohol consumption were compared across these groups in both the intervention and control participants.

Results

The provision of non-alcoholic beverages significantly increased non-alcoholic beverage consumption in all groups. However, alcohol consumption was significantly reduced in the intervention groups compared to controls only in groups 1–3. The reduction in alcohol consumption was less pronounced in groups 3 and 4 compared to group 1 (both,p < 0.05). Importantly, the provision of non-alcoholic beverages did not lead to an increase in alcohol consumption, even among individuals with higher AUDIT scores.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that individuals with higher AUDIT scores may experience a reduced benefit from a 12-week non-alcoholic beverage intervention in terms of alcohol consumption reduction. Nevertheless, this intervention appears to be a safe and effective strategy for reducing alcohol consumption in heavy drinkers who do not have alcohol dependence.

Trial registration

UMIN UMIN000047949. Registered 4 June 2022.
The influence of growth rate-controlling feeding strategy on the surfactin production in Bacillus subtilis bioreactor processes
Authors: Hiller Eric , Off Manuel , Hermann Alexander , Vahidinasab Maliheh , Benatto Perino Elvio Henrique , Lilge Lars , Hausmann Rudolf
Published: September 2024

Background

The production of surfactin, an extracellular accumulating lipopeptide produced by various Bacillus species, is a well-known representative of microbial biosurfactant. However, only limited information is available on the correlation between the growth rate of the production strain, such as B. subtilis BMV9, and surfactin production. To understand the correlation between biomass formation over time and surfactin production, the availability of glucose as carbon source was considered as main point. In fed-batch bioreactor processes, the B. subtilis BMV9 was used, a strain well-suited for high cell density fermentation. By adjusting the exponential feeding rates, the growth rate of the surfactin-producing strain, was controlled.

Results

Using different growth rates in the range of 0.075 and 0.4 h-1, highest surfactin titres of 36 g/L were reached at 0.25 h-1 with production yields YP/S of 0.21 g/g and YP/X of 0.7 g/g, while growth rates lower than 0.2 h-1 resulted in insufficient and slowed biomass formation as well as surfactin production (YP/S of 0.11 g/g and YP/X of 0.47 g/g for 0.075 h-1). In contrast, feeding rates higher than 0.25 h-1 led to a stimulation of overflow metabolism, resulting in increased acetate formation of up to 3 g/L and an accumulation of glucose due to insufficient conversion, leading to production yields YP/S of 0.15 g/g and YP/X of 0.46 g/g for 0.4 h-1.

Conclusions

Overall, the parameter of adjusting exponential feeding rates have an important impact on the B. subtilis productivity in terms of surfactin production in fed-batch bioreactor processes. A growth rate of 0.25 h-1 allowed the highest surfactin production yield, while the total conversion of substrate to biomass remained constant at the different growth rates.
IL-6 deficiency accelerates cerebral cryptococcosis and alters glial cell responses
Authors: Reguera-Gomez Marta , Munzen Melissa E. , Hamed Mohamed F. , Charles-Niño Claudia L. , Martinez Luis R.
Published: September 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is an opportunistic encapsulated fungal pathogen that causes life-threatening meningoencephalitis in immunosuppressed individuals. Since IL-6 is important for blood-brain barrier support and its deficiency has been shown to facilitate Cn brain invasion, we investigated the impact of IL-6 on systemic Cn infection in vivo, focusing on central nervous system (CNS) colonization and glial responses, specifically microglia and astrocytes. IL-6 knock-out (IL-6−/−) mice showed faster mortality than C57BL/6 (Wild-type) and IL-6−/− supplemented with recombinant IL-6 (rIL-6; 40 pg/g/day) mice. Despite showing early lung inflammation but no major histological differences in pulmonary cryptococcosis progression among the experimental groups, IL-6−/− mice had significantly higher blood and brain tissue fungal burden at 7-days post infection. Exposure of cryptococci to rIL-6 in vitro increased capsule growth. In addition, IL-6−/− brains were characterized by an increased dystrophic microglia number during Cn infection, which are associated with neurodegeneration and senescence. In contrast, the brains of IL-6-producing or -supplemented mice displayed high numbers of activated and phagocytic microglia, which are related to a stronger anti-cryptococcal response or tissue repair. Likewise, culture of rIL-6 with microglia-like cells promoted high fungal phagocytosis and killing, whereas IL-6 silencing in microglia decreased fungal phagocytosis. Lastly, astrogliosis was high and moderate in infected brains removed from Wild-type and IL-6−/− supplemented with rIL-6 animals, respectively, while minimal astrogliosis was observed in IL-6−/− tissue, highlighting the potential of astrocytes in containing and combating cryptococcal infection. Our findings suggest a critical role for IL-6 in Cn CNS dissemination, neurocryptococcosis development, and host defense.
Monocyte-driven inflamm-aging reduces intestinal barrier function in females
Authors: Quin Candice , Breznik Jessica A. , Kennedy Allison E. , DeJong Erica N. , Andary Catherine M. , Ermolina Sofya , Davidson Donald J. , Ma Jinhui , Surette Michael G. , Bowdish Dawn M. E.
Published: September 2024

Background

The intestinal barrier encompasses physical and immunological components that act to compartmentalize luminal contents, such as bacteria and endotoxins, from the host. It has been proposed that an age-related decline of intestinal barrier function may allow for the passage of luminal contents into the bloodstream, triggering a low-grade systemic inflammation termed inflamm-aging. Although there is mounting evidence to support this hypothesis in model species, it is unclear if this phenomenon occurs in humans. In addition, despite being well-established that biological sex impacts aging physiology, its influence on intestinal barrier function and inflamm-aging has not been explored.

Results

In this study, we observed sex differences in markers of intestinal barrier integrity, where females had increased epithelial permeability throughout life as compared to males. With age, females had an age-associated increase in circulating bacterial products and metabolites such as LPS and kynurenine, suggesting reduced barrier function. Females also had age-associated increases in established markers of inflamm-aging, including peripheral blood monocytes as well as TNF and CRP. To determine if impaired barrier function was driving inflamm-aging, we performed a mediation analysis. The results show that the loss of intestinal barrier integrity was not the mediator of inflamm-aging in humans. Instead, persistent, low-grade inflammation with age preceded the increase in circulating bacterial products, which we confirmed using animal models. We found, as in humans, that sex modified age-associated increases in circulating monocytes in mice, and that inflammation mediates the loss of intestinal barrier function.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results suggest that higher basal intestinal permeability in combination with age-associated inflammation, increases circulating LPS in females. Thus, targeting barrier permeability in females may slow the progression of inflamm-aging, but is unlikely to prevent it.
Trajectory of suicide among Indian children and adolescents: a pooled analysis of national data from 1995 to 2021
Authors: Jena Susangita , Swain Prafulla Kumar , Senapati Rachel Elizabeth , Acharya Subhendu Kumar
Published: September 2024

Background

Suicide is a major public health concern in India especially among children and adolescents. The yearly national statistics show a concerning trend of rising suicide deaths in these age groups.

Methods

The present study, taking 26 years of national data from the National Crime Record Bureau during 1995–2021, examined the trend, patterns, means, and modes of children/adolescent suicides in India. We also undertook a time series analysis by using ARIMA (0,2,1) model to forecast the expected suicide rate for the next one decade.

Results

A rising trend of suicide rate among children and adolescents was observed in India over the last 26 years. The forecast indicates a continuance of rising suicide cases for the upcoming decade in India. A substantially different trend of suicide rate was observed among early and late adolescents indicating significantly high vulnerability of late adolescents. Among children /adolescents, the most common causes of suicide were family problems, academic failure, illness, and unemployment. Illness has emerged as one of the leading causes of suicide, with a significant rise over time. Poverty and unemployment were also found as the important contributors with a steadily increasing trend of suicide among children and adolescents facing these problems in recent years.

Conclusion

The study provides important analysis and information on suicide among children/adolescents in India, by providing useful insights for parents, teachers, policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and stakeholders aiming to prevent and control children and adolescent suicide and boost mental health. The study also provides important leads on risk factors with a forecast of suicide trends for the next 10 years.
Strategic changes and challenges of private dental clinics and practitioners in Israel: adapting to a competitive environment
Authors: Naamati-Schneider Lior
Published: September 2024

Background

In the 21st century’s digital age, health organizations face challenges from reduced public healthcare spending, creating a competitive market that impacts healthcare management. The struggle is hardest for small organizations, such as private clinics. Competing under unfavorable conditions, these small businesses must run as independent, profitable units in a government-regulated market where they are subject to numerous restrictions yet receive no financial support. In a world of increasing dependence on digital technologies, these small businesses must adopt competitive business models and be adaptive and flexible in embracing change.

Methods

This qualitative study is based on a thematic qualitative analysis of 20 in-depth, 45-minute-long interviews with dentists and owners of private dental clinics in various specialties. The study employs the strategic change model to examine how dentists who run private dental clinics implement new strategies and technologies to adjust to changes and create a competitive edge.

Results

Six main categories emerged from the analysis of the interviews: changes in the organization’s environment; instituting and assimilating changes; obstacles in embracing change; added value obtained from embracing the change; quality of care and service; and cost-benefit considerations. The categories were map and evaluated in light of the strategic change model. The analysis indicated that digital strategies have been only partially adopted, suggesting an absence of a cohesive, long-term strategic vision for the organizations.

Conclusions

The study explored the actions, perceptions, and challenges of adapting to a competitive digital market in dental private clinics. Based on these insights, recommendations have been provided for global change management, aiming for a sustainable and stable healthcare system that benefits the broader community.
Cost modelling and optimisation for cloud: a graph-based approach
Authors: Khan Akif Quddus , Matskin Mihhail , Prodan Radu , Bussler Christoph , Roman Dumitru , Soylu Ahmet
Published: September 2024

Cloud computing has become popular among individuals and enterprises due to its convenience, scalability, and flexibility. However, a major concern for many cloud service users is the rising cost of cloud resources. Since cloud computing uses a pay-per-use model, costs can add up quickly, and unexpected expenses can arise from a lack of visibility and control. The cost structure gets even more complicated when working with multi-cloud or hybrid environments. Businesses may spend much of their IT budget on cloud computing, and any savings can improve their competitiveness and financial stability. Hence, an efficient cloud cost management is crucial. To overcome this difficulty, new approaches and tools are being developed to provide greater oversight and command over cloud a graph-based approach for modelling cost elements and cloud resources and a potential way to solve the resulting constraint problem of cost optimisation. In this context, we primarily consider utilisation, cost, performance, and availability. The proposed approach is evaluated on three different user scenarios, and results indicate that it could be effective in cost modelling, cost optimisation, and scalability. This approach will eventually help organisations make informed decisions about cloud resource placement and manage the costs of software applications and data workflows deployed in single, hybrid, or multi-cloud environments.
Future Orienteering Evaluation Model: forecasting, foresight and anticipation indices
Authors: Fasoli Giulia , Poli Roberto
Published: September 2024

The following paper adopts the term Future Orienteering to indicate the attitude of openness and preparedness to the future of individuals, communities and organisations. If Futures Studies wants to become an independent field of research, future skills need to be developed with appropriate training paths, and future attitudes and strategies need to be evaluated accurately. Thus, considering the necessity of a measurement system for the evaluation of strategic foresight and future-based activities, this article illustrates a new theoretical model, where special emphasis is placed on the distinction between Forecasting, Foresight and Anticipation, according to the Theory of Anticipation presented in (Poli, Introducing anticipation. In: Poli R (ed) Handbook of anticipation, 2019a); (Poli, Lavorare con Il futuro: idee e strumenti per governarel’incertezza, 2019b); (Poli, Introduction to anticipation studies, 2017). The result is a battery of three synthetic indexes, immediately readable to allow easy comparisons. Here, the following model described represents a preliminary stage in the development of an evaluation system, indeed few suggestions for use will be provided.
Lower social vulnerability is associated with a higher prevalence of social media-involved violent crimes in Prince George’s County, Maryland, 2018–2023
Authors: Bather Jemar R. , Silver Diana , Gill Brendan P. , Harris Adrian , Bae Jin Yung , Parikh Nina S. , Goodman Melody S.
Published: September 2024

Background

Social vulnerability may play a role in social media-involved crime, but few studies have investigated this issue. We investigated associations between social vulnerability and social media-involved violent crimes.

Methods

We analyzed 22,801 violent crimes occurring between 2018 and 2023 in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Social media involvement was obtained from crime reports at the Prince George’s County Police Department. Social media application types included social networking, advertising/selling, ridesharing, dating, image/video hosting, mobile payment, instant messaging/Voice over Internet Protocol, and other. We used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Social Vulnerability Index to assess socioeconomic status (SES), household characteristics, racial and ethnic minority status, housing type and transportation, and overall vulnerability. Modified Poisson models estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) among the overall sample and stratified by crime type (assault and homicide, robbery, and sexual offense). Covariates included year and crime type.

Results

Relative to high tertile areas, we observed a higher prevalence of social media-involved violent crimes in areas with low SES vulnerability (aPR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.37-2.43), low housing type and transportation vulnerability (aPR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.17-2.02), and low overall vulnerability (aPR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.23-2.17). Low SES vulnerability areas were significantly associated with higher prevalences of social media-involved assaults and homicides (aPR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.02-2.62), robberies (aPR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.28-3.12), and sexual offenses (aPR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.02-4.19) compared to high SES vulnerability areas. Low housing type and transportation vulnerability (vs. high) was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of social media-involved robberies (aPR: 1.54, 95% CI:1.01-2.37). Modified Poisson models also indicated that low overall vulnerability areas had higher prevalences of social media-involved robberies (aPR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.10-2.67) and sexual offenses (aPR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.05-4.39) than high overall vulnerability areas.

Conclusions

We quantified the prevalence of social media-involved violent crimes across social vulnerability levels. These insights underscore the need for collecting incident-based social media involvement in crime reports among law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally. Comprehensive data collection at the national and international levels provides the capacity to elucidate the relationships between neighborhoods, social media, and population health.
Analysis of plantar pressure of midsole prepared by 3d printed biomimetic structures with different densities
Authors: Li Jing , Jung Imjoo , Lee Sunhee
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of 3D printed midsoles with biomimetic structures of varying densities on plantar pressure during static and dynamic motions. The midsoles were designed with three densities of Tyson polygon (TS) structures: 1TS, 2TS, and 3TS. Plantar pressure tests were conducted on midsoles during static and dynamic motions such as walking, running, and jumping. The data were analyzed based on hypotheses related to samples, motions, and 10 plantar pressure zones. As results, for static motion, all midsoles improved pressure distribution and reduced peak pressure compared to barefoot conditions, with 1TS being the most effective. During dynamic motions, 1TS and 2TS effectively distributed plantar pressure in the midfoot and heel areas, while 3TS provided better support and stability during high-intensity activities like jumping. Statistical analysis revealed that 1TS offered comfort and flexibility but lacked support, 2TS balanced support and cushioning, and 3TS provided superior support and stability but reduced elasticity during jumps. In dynamic motions, 1TS excelled in walking, and 2TS performed best in high-intensity activities such as running and jumping. In the meta areas (M2 and M3), 1TS reduced pressure by over 30% during walking and nearly 40% during running, while 3TS showed similar reductions during jumping, with BF showing higher pressures compared to running. Thus, this study highlights the effectiveness of 1TS and 2TS in reducing pressure in the meta and midfoot areas, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right midsole density for optimal comfort and performance across different activities.
Serum kisspeptin as a promising biomarker for PCOS: a mini review of current evidence and future prospects
Authors: Kokori Emmanuel , Olatunji Gbolahan , Komolafe Rosemary , Ogieuhi Ikponmwosa Jude , Ukoaka Bonaventure , Ajayi Irene , Aderinto Nicholas
Published: September 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterised by its multifactorial nature and intricate interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. As the search for reliable biomarkers intensifies, serum kisspeptin emerges as a promising candidate due to its central role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. This review aims to consolidate the evolving understanding of kisspeptin as a potential PCOS biomarker, comprehensively exploring its physiological basis, diagnostic challenges in PCOS, and clinical implications. Diagnostic challenges in PCOS are addressed, underscoring the limitations of current criteria and the need for objective and standardised biomarkers. Kisspeptin’s introduction as a potential biomarker brings forth both promises and challenges in terms of its diagnostic utility. The review recognises the importance of standardisation in research methodologies and emphasises the exploration of genetic polymorphisms to enhance kisspeptin’s robustness as a diagnostic tool.
Key factors influencing students’ academic performance
Authors: Suleiman Ibrahim Baba , Okunade Oluwasogo Adekunle , Dada Emmanuel Gbenga , Ezeanya Uchenna Christiana
Published: September 2024

Academic achievement is a multifaceted outcome influenced by a multitude of factors spanning across educational, socioeconomic, and individual characteristics. Understanding the key determinants of students’ academic performance is paramount for educators, policymakers, and institutions to enhance learning outcomes and facilitate targeted interventions. The absence of a cohesive framework for understanding academic achievement poses a barrier to effective interventions and policies, hindering educators and policymakers from implementing targeted strategies for student improvement. To address this challenge, it is crucial to conduct a thorough examination of the factors influencing academic performance, prioritizing their identification, exploring interactions, and examining their relative impact. Through this research, educational stakeholders can gain insights to develop evidence-based strategies that foster equitable learning outcomes and pave the way for academic success for all students. In this research, linear regression is chosen as the primary model due to its ability to model relationships between variables, making it suitable for assessing the impact of multiple factors on academic performance. Simulation results show that the proposed model achieved 98% accuracy in predicting the factors that are affecting students’ academic performance. The findings derived from the linear regression analysis offer statistical insights into the key factors influencing students’ academic performance. It also incorporates visual aids to enhance the clarity and interpretability of the results. This research interprets the implications of these key factors and discusses their broader significance in the context of students’ academic performance.
Wavelength-multiplexed orbital angular momentum meta-holography
Authors: Jang Jaehyuck , Moon Seong-Won , Kim Joohoon , Mun Jungho , Maier Stefan A. , Ren Haoran , Rho Junsuk
Published: September 2024

The field of high-bandwidth holography has been extensively studied over the past decade. Orbital angular momentum (OAM) holography, which utilizes vortex beams with theoretically unbounded OAM modes as information carriers, showcases the large capacitance of hologram storage. However, OAM holography has been limited to a single wavelength, restricting its potential for full-color holography and displays. In this study, we propose wavelength and OAM multiplexed holography that utilizes the multiple dimensions of light—wavelength and OAM—to provide a multi-color platform that expands the information capacity of holographic storage devices. The proposed wavelength-OAM multiplexed holography is physically realized by a metasurface, the state-of-the-art optical element consisting of an array of artificially engineered nanostructures. Hydrogenated silicon meta-atoms, the constituents of the metasurface, are engineered to possess wavelength selectivity by tailoring the dispersion of polarization conversion. These meta-atoms are used to encode the calculated OAM-preserved phase maps based on our design. The sampling grid of the phase map is rotated by 45°, which effectively suppress higher-order diffraction, providing a great strategy for achieving large field-of-view (FOV) holography. We successfully demonstrate six holographic images that are selectively reconstructed under the illumination of light with specific wavelengths (λ = 450, 635 nm) and topological charges (l = -2, 0, 2), without high-order diffraction. Our work suggests that ultrathin meta-holograms can potentially realize ultrahigh-bandwidth full-color holography and holographic video displays with large FOV.
Synergistic strategies for cancer treatment: leveraging natural products, drug repurposing and molecular targets for integrated therapy
Authors: Mikkili Indira , Suluvoy Jagadish Kumar , Thathapudi Jesse Joel , Srirama Krupanidhi
Published: September 2024

Background

Uncontrolled cell proliferation is a major cause of cancer development and progression. Inflammation along with inflammatory mediators and cells play a significant role in cancer. Cancer ranks in second in mortality rates, following cardiac diseases. Phytochemicals from medicinal plants offer a natural and effective approach for treating Inflammation and cancer.

Main body of the abstract

Animal studies provide evidence that phytochemicals present in food acts as antioxidants, anti-aging molecules, and health promoters, thereby extending lifespan. These natural compounds include quercetin, epicatechin, resveratrol, curcumin, kaempferol, vitamin C and carotenoids. However, clinical data on humans is still awaited. Conventional allopathic cancer therapies often have severe side effects. Recently, drug repurposing has emerged as an alternative strategy offering lower costs, shorter development times and the advantage of existing clinical data. The primary goal of drug repurposing is to discover new uses for approved or experimental drugs.

Short conclusion

The current review elucidates the side effects of synthetic drugs and the beneficial effects of phytochemicals and non-oncological drugs along with their mechanisms of action for treating cancer. Additionally, it highlights clinical trial data for various cancers focusing on molecular targets. By integrating natural products, drug repurposing and molecular targets, we can develop multifaceted therapies that maximize efficacy and minimize adverse effects. This integrated approach promises more personalized and effective treatments, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Future research should identifying novel natural compounds, explore repurposing opportunities for existing drugs, and elucidate molecular targets for precise therapy. Additionally, clinical trials should be conducted to validate the efficacy and safety of these combined strategies in cancer patients.

Graphical abstract
Automated, Real-Time Integration of Biometric Data From Wearable Devices With Electronic Medical Records: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Weng Julius K. , Virk Ritupreet , Kaiser Kels , Hoffman Karen E. , Goodman Chelain R. , Mitchell Melissa , Shaitelman Simona , Schlembach Pamela , Reed Valerie , Wu Chi-Fang , Xiao Lianchun , Smith Grace L. , Smith Benjamin D.
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

A major barrier to the incorporation of biometric data into clinical practice is the lack of device integration with electronic medical records (EMRs). We developed infrastructure to transmit biometric data from an Apple Watch into the EMR for physician review. The study objective was to test feasibility of using this infrastructure for patients undergoing radiotherapy.

METHODS

The study included patients with breast or prostate cancer receiving ≥3 weeks of radiotherapy who reported owning an Apple Watch. Daily resting heart rate (HR), HR variability, step count, and exercise minutes were automatically transferred to our EMR using a custom app installed on each patient's iPhone. Biometric data were presented to the treating radiation oncologist for review on a weekly basis during creation of the on-treatment note. Feasibility was defined a priori as physician review of biometric data for at least 90% of patients. Time trends in biometric data were tested using the Jonckheere-Terpstra test. Patient satisfaction was assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS), with scores above 80 considered above-average user experience.

RESULTS

Of the 20 patients enrolled, biometric data were successfully transmitted to the EMR and reviewed by the radiation oncologist for 95% (n = 19) of patients, thus meeting the a priori feasibility threshold. For patients with radiation courses ≥4 weeks, exercise minutes decreased over time (
P
= .01) and daily mean HR variability increased over time (
P
= .02). The median SUS was 82.5 (IQR, 70-87.5).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates the feasibility of real-time integration of biometric data collected from an Apple Watch into the EMR with subsequent physician review. The high rates of physician review and patient satisfaction provide support for further development of large-scale collection of wearable device data.
Evaluating enrollment processes and eligibility criteria of manufacturer free-drug patient assistance programs for oral anticancer agents used in hematologic malignancies.
Authors: Muluneh Benyam , Su Angela
Published: September 2024

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Background:
Increasing costs of oral anticancer agents (OAAs) pose a major barrier to patient adherence and consequently treatment effectiveness. While patient assistance programs (PAPs) may help cover costs, eligibility requirements for these programs are anecdotally reported to be non-transparent and enrollment processes burdensome, limiting their accessibility to patients. Thus, we evaluated the eligibility criteria and enrollment processes of manufacturer free-drug PAPs.
Methods:
A prospective review of manufacturer free-drug PAPs available for OAAs used in hematologic malignancies was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024. Available PAPs were identified using three online databases:
RxAssist, NeedyMeds,
and
Association of Community Cancer Centers
. Financial support program websites were assessed to gather information on eligibility requirements, enrollment processes, and other PAP characteristics.
Results:
For the 45 OAAs evaluated, 23 manufacturer free-drug PAPs were identified. All PAPs had insurance and income eligibility requirements which varied between programs. Uninsured patients were eligible for all programs, with 4% of programs restricting eligibility to only uninsured patients. The most common income eligibility threshold was 500% federal poverty limit, and requirement details were unavailable online for 43.5% of programs. Enrollment could be initiated online, via downloadable form, and by phone-call, with 26% of programs having all three methods of enrollment initiation available to providers (9% to patients), 43% having two to providers (35% to patients), and 30% having only one to providers (48% to patients). Of note, 9% of programs offered no way for patients to independently initiate enrollment. Enrollment for all programs required both patient and provider inputs, and submission methods for some or all enrollment documentation included fax, online portal, email, and mail, with 4% of programs having four methods of submission available, 17% having three, 52% having two, and 26% having only one.
Conclusions:
The pathways for patients or providers to enroll in Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) are complex and inconsistent across different programs, often requiring more action from providers than patients. Additionally, there is frequently a lack of transparency in the eligibility requirements for manufacturer free-drug PAPs.