bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes toward Cancer Diagnosis Disclosure and Resilience among Suspicious Lung Cancer Patients, Lung Cancer Patients, and Their Families
Authors: Guan Qiongyao , Ran Hailiang , Yang Jiao , Yang Xiumei , Guo Gang , Shen Nan
Published: December 2023

Objective. This study aimed to compare the attitudes and preferences on cancer diagnosis disclosure (CDD) among suspicious lung cancer patients (SLCPs), lung cancer patients (LCPs), and their family members and to explore their associations with resilience. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Yunnan Cancer Hospital in China, from March to August 2022. A total of 1016 participants including 254 SLCP-family pairs and 254 LCP-family pairs completed self-administered questionnaires to assess their attitudes toward CDD and resilience. Continuous variables were expressed by means and standard deviations, while categorical variables were presented by numbers and percentages. The comparisons between groups were tested by using a t-test or chi-squared test. Associations between resilience and CDD attitudes in the four groups were estimated by multivariate logistic regression models. Results. Compared with LCPs, more SLCPs believed that patients should be informed of their cancer diagnoses (63.8% vs 43.7%, p<0.001), and the distribution of the first one to know the diagnosis was disequilibrium (p<0.05). The significant difference was identified in participants’ attitudes toward patients being told the facts by resilience levels among the different groups. Subsequent multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that resilience was associated with participants’ preference for patients being informed of their cancer diagnoses in the SLCPs group (adjusted OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.08–3.25), LCPs group (adjusted OR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.32–3.74), and family of LCPs group (adjusted OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.04–3.12). We further performed a sensitivity analysis using quantiles of resilience. Conclusion. SLCPs and LCPs exhibited different attitudes towards CDD. Resilience plays a positive role in CDD. Our study suggests that healthcare practitioners should consider patients’ diagnosis state when disclosing a cancer diagnosis and tailor their disclosure methods based on the patients’ and families’ preferences and resilience. Our findings provide important implications to guide future research and intervention programs to improve cancer diagnosis disclosure for SLCPs, LCPs, and their families.
Exploring the Behavior-Driven Crash Risk Prediction Model: The Role of Onboard Navigation Data in Road Safety
Authors: Ma Xiao-chi , Lu Jian , Wong Yiik Diew
Published: December 2023

Driving behavior has frequently been overlooked in previous road traffic crash research. Hereby, abnormal (extreme) driving behavior data transmitted by the onboard navigation systems were collected for vehicles involved in traffic crashes, including sharp-lane-change, sharp-acceleration, and sudden-braking behaviors. Using these data in conjunction with expressway crash records, multiple classification learners were trained to establish a behavior-driven risk prediction model. To further investigate the influence of driving behavior on crash risk, partial dependence plots (PDPs) were applied. Regression analyses indicate that models have a stronger effect when derivative features such as frequency of specific deviant behavior, speed, and acceleration in the behavior process are included. The behavioral RUSBoost model surpasses other models, achieving an AUC prediction metric of 0.782 and outperforming traditional traffic-flow-driven machine learning models. PDP analysis demonstrates that the sudden-braking behavior is the leading contributory factor of expressway crashes, particularly when the acceleration exceeds 0.5 G. This study confirms the potential of predicting crash risks through augmenting behavior data from navigation software; the findings lay a foundation for countermeasures.
Endobronchial Lipoma: A Rare Cause of Bronchial Stenosis or Obstruction
Authors: Chen Jian , Xin Tao , Pan Lei , Li Yan , Qian Weisheng , Wei Jin , Yan Yan , Wang Yan , Jin Faguang , Jiang Hua
Published: December 2023

Endobronchial lipoma (EL) is a rare benign tumor characterized by tracheobronchial smooth-surfaced mass, often resulting in bronchial obstruction without standard guidelines for management. This study seeks to clarify the clinical features and interventions of EL, aiming to improve its diagnosis and outcomes. A retrospective review was conducted on 28516 outpatients treated between January 2015 and December 2019 at the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University to collect patients diagnosed with EL. Their clinical, bronchoscopic, chest imaging, and histopathological features along with management were analyzed. Among the patients reviewed, nine were histopathologically diagnosed with EL, comprising seven males and two females. All EL patients exhibited noticeable symptoms, including cough (in eight patients), dyspnea (in six patients), fever (in three patients), expectoration (in two patients), chest pain (in two patients), hemoptysis (in one patient), and fatigue (in one patient). Chest CT abnormalities included endobronchial mass (in four patients), inflammatory exudation (in three patients), atelectasis (in three patients), and infiltration or consolidation (in two patients). In three patients, imaging showed fat density, directly leading to the diagnosis of EL. The EL lesions were distributed with six in the right lung and three in the left lung, all located within the first three subdivisions of the tracheobronchial tree. Treatment approaches varied, with one patient undergoing combined bronchoscopic resection and surgery. The remaining patients received bronchoscopic intervention such as electrosurgical snare resection, argon plasma coagulation (APC), cryotherapy, and holmium laser. Histopathological analysis confirmed the EL diagnosis. Finally, the mass removal restored bronchus patency. Taken together, EL symptoms lack specificity, necessitating reliance on histopathology for EL accurate diagnosis. Bronchoscopic interventions emerge as the preferred option for EL management, surpassing surgical approaches.
Research on Electromagnetic Scattering Influence of Transmission Towers on Medium Wave Antenna Based on the Characteristic Mode Theory
Authors: Zong Shiqi , Jiao Chaoqun , Zhang Jiangong , Zhao Zhibin , Gan Zheyuan
Published: December 2023

Electromagnetic scattering from UHV transmission towers is a major factor affecting the safety and stability of the surrounding antenna signal system. In this paper, the electromagnetic scattering effect of ±800 kV UHV DC transmission tower on the medium-wave antenna is investigated based on the characteristic mode theory (CMT). The simulation model of the tower and antenna is established, and the mode selection is carried out according to the percentage of the contribution of the characteristic mode to the total electromagnetic scattering. The effects of electromagnetic scattering under three conditions, namely, the number of towers, the distance between towers and antennas, and different frequencies, are investigated separately. The simulation results show that as the number of towers increases from 1 to 3, it leads to an increase in the electromagnetic scattering impact by about 49.5%. The shape distortion of the antenna’s directional map becomes more pronounced and is accompanied by the extension with the direction of the power line. The distance between the tower and the antenna is shortened from 500 m to 125 m, resulting in the growth of the influence of electromagnetic scattering by about 36.4%, and the directional gain of the antenna increases along the direction of the transmission line. As the frequency increases from 600 kHz to 1400 kHz, it leads to the rise of electromagnetic scattering effect of about 32.7% and the antenna directional map becomes more complicated. The research results will provide technical support for developing protective measures against electromagnetic scattering from UHV DC transmission towers to medium-wave antennas.
Association among Doctor-Patient Communication, Trust, and Patients’ Negative Stereotypes for Healthcare Professionals during COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Yao , Bu Xiaoou , Wang Yanjiao , Du Yawen , Liu Yu , Wang Pei
Published: December 2023

Aim. The purpose of this study was to examine the association among doctor-patient communication, trust, and patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals during COVID-19. Background. Patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals have been considered a major cause of violence against healthcare professionals. During COVID-19, since the fear for illness could exacerbate patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals, therefore, how to inhibit patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals has become a top priority. Methods. From January 2020 to April 2020, a cross-sectional survey study was performed in which a total of 2000 patients were convenience-sampled from different regions of China. The survey measured doctor-patient communication, institutional trust, interpersonal trust, and patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals, respectively. After standardizing the total data scores, the association between doctor-patient communication, trust and patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals using the bootstrap method was built. Results. There was a moderate to the high correlation between doctor-patient communication, patients’ negative stereotypes for healthcare professionals, interpersonal trust, and institution trust (r = 0.36–0.68, p < 0.01). Mediation analysis showed that patients’ interpersonal trust (β = −0.25, 95% CI: −0.312–−0.209) than patients’ institution trust (β = −0.02, 95% CI: −0.042–−0.007) played a greater role in suppressing negative stereotypes through doctor-patient communication. Conclusions. Through communication, healthcare professionals and patients increase their familiarity and identification, thereby reducing patients’ negative stereotypes. Moreover, because interpersonal trust connotes emotional and cognitive trust, it was more beneficial than institution trust in reducing negative stereotypes. Implications for Nursing Management. The results of this study can tell governments, healthcare organizations, communities, and healthcare professionals that reducing violent behaviors based on negative stereotypes requires attention to institutional trust building, interpersonal trust development, and communication improvement.
A Rare Case of Nasal Sarcoma with BCOR Internal Tandem Duplication Showing Complete Pathologic Response to the VDC-IE Chemotherapy Protocol
Authors: Salah Samer , Sughayer Maher A. , Jaber Omar , Abu Abed Nebras , Ajlouni Fatena , Al Gargaz Wisam , Abu Hijlih Ramiz , Abuhijla Fawzi , Al-Ibraheem Akram , Alul Farah , Naser Walid
Published: December 2023

Sarcoma with BCOR genetic alteration is an exceptionally rare and emerging subtype of sarcoma. It is categorized into two types: BCOR-related gene fusions such as BCOR::CCNB3 sarcomas and other BCOR-rearranged sarcoma and sarcomas with internal tandem duplication of BCOR genes such as infantile undifferentiated round cell sarcomas and primitive myxoid mesenchymal tumors of infancy. BCOR::CCNB3 sarcomas predominantly arise in bone rather than soft tissue and exhibit a higher occurrence in children and adolescent males, whereas sarcomas with BCOR internal tandem duplication show a wider age range but usually arise in the first year of life. Due to their rarity, there is ongoing debate and uncertainty regarding the best treatment approach, with a lack of specific clinical trials addressing these tumors. In this report, we present a unique case of sarcoma with internal tandem duplication of BCOR gene originating in the nasal region. The tumor was successfully and completely resected using the standard VDC-IE chemotherapy protocol, resulting in an unprecedented 100 percent tumor necrosis. The patient has completed the protocol and remains recurrence-free 13 months after diagnosis. This case suggests potential efficacy of the standard VDC-IE protocol in achieving remarkable responses in BCOR rearrangement sarcomas, including the internal tandem duplication subtype. However, further studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment strategies for this disease.
Key Cell Types and Biomarkers in Heart Failure Identified through Analysis of Single-Cell and Bulk RNA Sequencing Data
Authors: Kong Ying , Yang Ning , Luo Zhiqing , Huang Ruiting , Li Quhuan
Published: December 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome resulting from various cardiac diseases and a significant medical issue worldwide. Although the role of inflammation in HF pathogenesis is well-known, the specific cell types and regulatory molecules involved remain poorly understood. Here, we identified key cell types and novel biomarkers via an analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data obtained from patients with two major HF types of ischemic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. Myeloid cells were identified as the primary cell population involved in HF through cellular fraction and gene set enrichment analysis. Additionally, differential analysis of myeloid cells revealed crosstalk between cellular communication and cytokine-regulated immune responses in HF, with the MIF pathway emerging as a crucial immune regulatory pathway. The CD74/CXCR4 receptor complex in myeloid cell subgroup Mφ2 was significantly upregulated, potentially acting as a crucial regulator in HF. Upon receiving the MIF signal molecule, the CD74/CXCR4 receptor can activate NF-κB signaling to produce chemokines and thereby enhance the inflammatory response. CD74 and CXCR4 may serve as biomarkers and treatment targets for HF.
Preparation of Synbiotic Yogurt Sauce Containing Spirulina platensis Microalgae Extract and Its Effect on the Viability of Lactobacillus acidophilus
Authors: Kazemeini Hamidreza , Azizian Asghar , Ahmadi Katayoun
Published: December 2023

Background. Preparing a healthy and practical substitute for mayonnaise and reducing the complications caused by its consumption are two of the concerns of the producers of this product. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the possibility of producing synbiotic yogurt sauce prepared with Spirulina platensis microalgae extract (SPAE) as a valuable and alternative product for mayonnaise. Materials and Methods. After preparing yogurt from fresh cow’s milk, synbiotic yogurt sauce was prepared according to the formulation, and the effect of SPAE at the rate of 0.5, 1, and 2% on the viability of the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus was evaluated, and chemical, rheological, and sensory tests were carried out in the storage period (35 days). Results. The highest viability rate of L. acidophilus was related to the treatment containing 2% of SPAE with 1.31 log CFU/g reduction (from 9.02 log CFU/g on the first day to 7.71 log CFU/g on the final day) and 1% of SPAE with 2.98 log CFU/g reduction, respectively, which were significantly more effective than other treatments (P < 0.05), and it was found that the viability rate increases with the increase in the percentage of the prebiotic composition. There was also a significant difference between the treatments in the simulating conditions of the digestive system, and the viability of L. acidophilus in the treatment containing the prebiotic composition increased (P < 0.05). According to the results, during storage, in the presence of microalgae, acidity increased, and pH, viscosity, and sensory properties decreased compared to the control group. Upon analyzing the results, it was found that the addition of the prebiotic composition of SPAE, which is known as a functional product, led to a partial improvement in its properties. Therefore, the use of this alga, while benefiting from its medicinal and therapeutic properties, increases the viability rate of probiotic.
FcγRIIB Is an Immune Checkpoint Limiting the Activity of Treg-Targeting Antibodies in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Knorr David A. , Blanchard Lucas , Leidner Rom S. , Jensen Shawn M. , Meng Ryan , Jones Andrew , Ballesteros-Merino Carmen , Bell Richard B. , Baez Maria , Marino Alessandra , Sprott David , Bifulco Carlo B. , Piening Brian , Dahan Rony , Osorio Juan C. , Fox Bernard A. , Ravetch Jeffrey V.
Published: December 2023

Preclinical murine data indicate that fragment crystallizable (Fc)-dependent depletion of intratumoral regulatory T cells (Treg) is a major mechanism of action of anti–CTLA-4. However, the two main antibodies administered to patients (ipilimumab and tremelimumab) do not recapitulate these effects. Here, we investigate the underlying mechanisms responsible for the limited Treg depletion observed with these therapies. Using an immunocompetent murine model humanized for CTLA-4 and Fcγ receptors (FcγR), we show that ipilimumab and tremelimumab exhibit limited Treg depletion in tumors. Immune profiling of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in both humanized mice and humans revealed high expression of the inhibitory Fc receptor, FcγRIIB, which limits antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity/phagocytosis. Blocking FcγRIIB in humanized mice rescued the Treg-depleting capacity and antitumor activity of ipilimumab. Furthermore, Fc engineering of antibodies targeting Treg-associated targets (CTLA-4 or CCR8) to minimize FcγRIIB binding significantly enhanced Treg depletion, resulting in increased antitumor activity across various tumor models. Our results define the inhibitory FcγRIIB as an immune checkpoint limiting antibody-mediated Treg depletion in the TME, and demonstrate Fc engineering as an effective strategy to overcome this limitation and improve the efficacy of Treg-targeting antibodies.
Treatment Response, Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes and Clinical Outcomes in Inflammatory Breast Cancer–Treated with Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy
Authors: De Schepper Maxim , Nguyen Ha-Linh , Richard François , Rosias Louise , Lerebours Florence , Vion Roman , Clatot Florian , Berghian Anca , Maetens Marion , Leduc Sophia , Isnaldi Edoardo , Molinelli Chiara , Lambertini Matteo , Grillo Federica , Zoppoli Gabriele , Dirix Luc , Punie Kevin , Wildiers Hans , Smeets Ann , Nevelsteen Ines , Neven Patrick , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Larsimont Denis , Duhem Caroline , Viens Patrice , Bertucci François , Biganzoli Elia , Vermeulen Peter , Floris Giuseppe , Desmedt Christine
Published: December 2023

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare (1%–5%), aggressive form of breast cancer, accounting for approximately 10% of breast cancer mortality. In the localized setting, standard of care is neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) ± anti-HER2 therapy, followed by surgery. Here we investigated associations between clinicopathologic variables, stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (sTIL), and pathologic complete response (pCR), and the prognostic value of pCR. We included 494 localized patients with IBC treated with NACT from October 1996 to October 2021 in eight European hospitals. Standard clinicopathologic variables were collected and central pathologic review was performed, including sTIL. Associations were assessed using Firth logistic regression models. Cox regressions were used to evaluate the role of pCR and residual cancer burden (RCB) on disease-free survival (DFS), distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS), and overall survival (OS). Distribution according to receptor status was as follows: 26.4% estrogen receptor negative (ER−)/HER2−; 22.0% ER−/HER2+; 37.4% ER+/HER2−, and 14.1% ER+/HER2+. Overall pCR rate was 26.3%, being highest in the HER2+ groups (45.9% for ER−/HER2+ and 42.9% for ER+/HER2+). sTILs were low (median: 5.3%), being highest in the ER−/HER2− group (median: 10%). High tumor grade, ER negativity, HER2 positivity, higher sTILs, and taxane-based NACT were significantly associated with pCR. pCR was associated with improved DFS, DRFS, and OS in multivariable analyses. RCB score in patients not achieving pCR was independently associated with survival. In conclusion, sTILs were low in IBC, but were predictive of pCR. Both pCR and RCB have an independent prognostic role in IBC treated with NACT.

Significance:

IBC is a rare, but very aggressive type of breast cancer. The prognostic role of pCR after systemic therapy and the predictive value of sTILs for pCR are well established in the general breast cancer population; however, only limited information is available in IBC. We assembled the largest retrospective IBC series so far and demonstrated that sTIL is predictive of pCR. We emphasize that reaching pCR remains of utmost importance in IBC.
Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy in a Large Thalamic Glioma with Long-Term Remission: A Case Report
Authors: Hoyningen Alexander , Koster Kira-Lee , Neidert Marian C. , Bozinov Oliver , Lauber Arno , Kim Olaf Chan-Hi , Hundsberger Thomas , Krüger Marie T.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Thalamic gliomas pose a particular therapeutic challenge as complete resection is rarely achieved due to the deep and eloquent location. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) may provide a valuable management option for deep-seated gliomas that are not accessible with open surgery. Case Presentation: A 57-year-old woman presented with a rapidly progressive large thalamic glioblastoma. Opting for full ablation, we selected a challenging trajectory to maximize the possibility of full ablation. At 2.4 cm in diameter, the tumour was larger than recommended for LITT; nevertheless, three laser ablations along a single trajectory resulted in macroscopic ablation without complications. Adjuvant radio-chemotherapy was started soon after surgery without radiological recurrence 1.5 years after the initial surgery. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the potential when thalamic tumours are managed with timely LITT treatment and meticulous trajectory planning. Moreover, it highlights the need for close interdisciplinary management with neurosurgeons, neuropathologists, neuroradiologists, and neurooncologists.
Patterns of livestock depredation by carnivores: Leopard Panthera pardus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Grey Wolf Canis lupus (Linnaeus, 1758) in and around Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary, Jharkhand, India
Authors: Iqbal Shahzada , Ilyas Orus
Published: December 2023

Large predator attacks on livestock play a significant role in fuelling conflicts between stakeholders. Effectively managing these conflicts requires a thorough comprehension of locations susceptible to livestock depredation, and the underlying factors influencing such incidents. The recent spread of Grey Wolf Canis lupus and Leopard Panthera pardus into agriculturally dominated areas in Mahuadanr has resulted in increased proximity between these predators and livestock. We investigated the patterns of livestock depredation in and around Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary in the Indian state of Jharkhand using Leopard and Grey Wolf depredation data collected from 2019 to 2021 by the wildlife authorities of the sanctuary. A total of 74 heads of livestock were reportedly killed by Leopard and Grey Wolf in the study area between 2019 and 2021. The Mahuadanr forest beat experienced most of the livestock depredation incidents in 2021, while the maximum depredation incidents happened in Belwar and Lodh sub-beats by Leopard and Grey Wolf, respectively. Livestock depredation incidents varied temporally. Depredation by Leopard occurred more often during evenings (n = 22) and by night (n = 14), but less often during mornings (n = 4). Seasonal livestock depredation by both predators was not statistically significant in our study area. Around Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary, hotspots for livestock depredation were identified. The utilization of these findings can facilitate a comprehensive understanding of various aspects related to livestock depredation, while also supporting the design and implementation of effective, long-term conservation strategies for both species.
Nonessential elements (Al, As, Cd, & Pb) in shrimps and mussels from southeastern Brazil
Authors: Di Beneditto Ana Paula Madeira , Abreu Pestana Inácio , Felismindo Lima Dayvison , De Assis Franco Roberto Weider
Published: December 2023

The bioaccumulation of nonessential elements (Al, As, Cd, & Pb) in shrimps and mussels from southeastern Brazil (21°S–23°S) were compared. The objective was to verify and confirm the differential responses of elemental assimilation at both the taxonomic and spatial level. Two hypotheses were predicted: i) shrimps have lower element concentrations than mussels, and ii) both shrimps and mussels from the highly polluted site have higher element concentrations. The results confirmed the first hypothesis. The intense filter feeding activity of mussels explains the taxonomic difference. The second hypothesis was not validated. Both shrimps and mussels from the highly polluted site (Guanabara Bay) have lower elemental concentrations than individuals from the less polluted site. This finding is explained by the large inputs of sewage that result in partially reducing conditions of the water and high sedimentation rates, maintaining elements buried in anoxic sediment and making them unavailable for biological uptake. To understand what drives the bioaccumulation of chemical elements in marine animals it is necessary to know the species feeding habits and physiology, and the habitat characteristics in each region.
Ceropegia strophanthiflora (Apocynaceae—Asclepiadoideae)—a magnificent and rare new species from South Africa at the brink of extinction
Authors: HEIDUK ANNEMARIE , STYLES DAVID G.A.
Published: December 2023

We describe a novel species of Ceropegia (Apocynaceae-Asclepiadoideae-Ceropegieae), C. strophanthiflora, from inland of Mtubatuba in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The new species is placed in section Chamaesiphon where it appears to be vegetatively and floristically most similar to C. rehmannii (formerly Brachystelma foetidum). Ceropegia strophanthiflora can, however, be readily distinguished from this species by its strikingly colourful greenish-yellow flowers with bright purple markings and purplish-pink vibratile hairs fringing the corolla lobe bases. Most remarkable, however, are the unusually long, slender and twisted corolla lobes much reminiscent of flowers known in Strophanthus; hence the name C. strophanthiflora. There are no other known South African species exhibiting such flamboyant flowers. Concerningly, this spectacular new species may be at the brink of extinction as only very little habitat remains which is under severe anthropogenic threat.
Brachystelma tanzaniense, a species with long and slender corolla lobes from Tanzania, is transferred to Ceropegia section Chamaesiphon under the proposed new name C. dodomaensis. Moreover, the blocking name for this transfer, C. tanzaniensis, is reduced to a synonym of C. cordiloba for which we designate a lectotype.
First report of the genus Xerophorus from Asia with the description of Xerophorus pakistanicus (Callistosporiaceae), a new species from Southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: ASIF MUHAMMAD , SABA MALKA , RAZA MUBASHAR
Published: December 2023

A novel species, Xerophorus pakistanicus, has been identified from Southern Punjab, Pakistan, based on morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Xerophorus pakistanicus is characterized by a brown to dull orange, parabolic to campanulate pileus, a stipe turning light yellowish brown on handling, an absence of an annulus, amygdaliform to oblong basidiospores, utriform to pyriform caulocystidia, and the presence of clamp connections only in the stipitipellis. A phylogram, based on the combined nrITS-28S dataset, was constructed to assess the phylogenetic position of our strain, resulted Xerophorus pakistanicus sp. nov. within the genus Xerophorus. We present the new species with an illustrated morphological description and comparison with similar morphological or phylogenetically related species. This is the first record of the genus Xerophorus from Asia. A key to the known species of Xerophorus is also provided.
Machilus velutinoides—a new synonym of M. platycarpus (Lauraceae)
Authors: LI SHU-WAN , LIU QUAN-RU
Published: December 2023

Based on the study of protologues, herbarium specimens, and fieldwork, the authors found that Machilus velutinoides and M. platycarpus are conspecific. According to the rule of Article 11.4 of the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants (Shenzhen Code), the authors place the former as a synonym of the latter. A table comparing M. platycarpus, M. velutinoides, and M. velutinus is also provided.
A Hermeneutical Diverse Matrix of Peace, Justice, and the Gospel
Authors: Baik Chung-Hyun
Published: December 2023

Though peace is the most important theme in human history and also in church history, it is not so easy to lead to peace or to discuss on peace. In the previous discussions on peace, there have been some diverse positions such as holy war, just war, pacifism and so on. And recently a new discussion on just peace has been increasing especially centering around the World Council of Churches (WCC). This article explores a brief trajectory of the new discussion on just peace centering around the WCC and its subsequent relation to Korean church. Then this article investigates theological discussions on peace in Korean church, by taking a close look at four famous and influential figures, each of whom represents one position of the whole spectrum. This article pays special attention to the gospel in those discussions, because it is obvious that the gospel of the Scripture is about peace, which is ‘ shalom’ (םולשָ‎) in the Old Testament and ‘ eirene’ (εἰρήνη) in the New Testament. In so doing, this article argues that a robust theological discussion on peace in the future requires a more elaborate matrix of peace, justice, and the gospel, though with an open hermeneutical diversity.
The Church in British Burma
Authors: Mang Pum Za
Published: December 2023

This essay has explored the vital but mostly neglected story of the church in British Burma, looked at the complex intersection of religion, ethnicity, and colonialism, and presented fundamental factors for ethnic and religious divide between diverse nationalities. It has been observed that historically hallmarks of Christianity in colonial Burma included conflict, violence, and suffering.
“Havana Syndrome”: A post mortem
Authors: Bartholomew Robert E , Baloh Robert W
Published: December 2023

Background:

Since 2016, an array of claims and public discourse have circulated in the medical community over the origin and nature of a mysterious condition dubbed “Havana Syndrome,” so named as it was first identified in Cuba. In March 2023, the United States intelligence community concluded that the condition was a socially constructed catch-all category for an array of health conditions and stress reactions that were lumped under a single label.

Aims:

To examine the history of “Havana Syndrome” and the many factors that led to its erroneous categorization as a novel clinical entity.

Method:

A review of the literature.

Results/Conclusions:

Several factors led to the erroneous classification of “Havana Syndrome” as a novel entity including the failure to stay within the limitations of the data; the withholding of information by intelligence agencies, the prevalence of popular misconceptions about psychogenic illness, the inability to identify historical parallels; the role of the media, and the mixing of politics with science.
Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Burnout and ED Use and Hospitalizations Among Chronically Ill Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Poghosyan Lusine , Liu Jianfang , Schlak Amelia , Courtwright Suzanne , Flandrick Kathleen , Nantsupawat Apiradee , Martsolf Grant R.
Published: December 2023

Nurse practitioners (NPs) represent the fastest-growing workforce of primary care clinicians in the United States. Their numbers are projected to grow in the near future. The NP workforce can help the country meet the rising demand for care services due to the aging population and increasing chronic disease burden. Yet, increased burnout among these clinicians may affect their ability to deliver high-quality, safe care. We investigated how NP burnout in primary care practices affects patient outcomes, including emergency department (ED) use and hospitalizations, among older adults with chronic conditions. In 2018-2019, we collected survey data from 1244 primary care NPs from 6 geographically diverse states on their burnout and merged the survey data with data from Medicare claims on ED use and hospitalizations among 467 466 older adults with chronic conditions. 26.3% of NPs reported burnout. Using logistic regression models, we found that with a 1-unit increase in the standardized burnout score, the odds of an ED visit increased by 2.8% (OR = 1.028; P-value = .035); Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions (ACSC) ED visit by 3.2% (OR = 1.032; P-value = .019); hospitalization by 3.9% (OR = 1.039; P-value = .001); and ACSC hospitalization by 6.2% (OR = 1.062; P-value = .001). Our findings indicate that if chronically ill older adults receive care in primary care practices with higher NP burnout rates they are more likely to use EDs and hospitals. Policy and practice efforts, such as improving NP working conditions, should be undertaken to reduce NP burnout in primary care practices to potentially prevent acute care use.
Two cases of testicular tuberculosis in HIV patients with distinct clinical presentations
Authors: Farias Luís Arthur Brasil Gadelha , Vitoriano Fabíola Ellen Sales , Ribeiro Cassia Kamila Barros , Marques de Matos Mariana de Fátima , Perdigão Neto Lauro Vieira , Pires Neto Roberto da Justa
Published: December 2023

Genito-urinary tuberculosis (TB) corresponds to the second most common cause of extrapulmonary tuberculosis EPTB worldwide. It is however rare and is often clinically indistinguishable from testicular malignancy and infarction. HIV hugely increases the risk of TB in unusual sites; we present two such cases of testicular tuberculosis. The diagnosis was based respectively on histopathological findings, acid-bacilli smear of biopsy, semen, and culture.
Nearly zero energy building design and optimization: A residential building transformation in Türkiye
Authors: Senturk Azra , Ozcan Mustafa
Published: December 2023

In this study, the energy performance analysis of a representative residential building located in Izmir, Turkey, was carried out, utilizing the DesignBuilder energy simulation program. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are modeled as detailed in Design Builder in order to consider parameters such as thermal properties of materials, duct layout and airflow dynamics of the system in detail in the analysis. The technical and economic analysis of transforming the building into a nearly zero energy building (NZEB) was performed for eight different retrofit scenarios, including passive and active energy efficiency measures. The most effective scenario, Scenario 8 (S8), reduced the building's annual net primary energy consumption by 96.08% to 7.45 kWh/m²/year. S8's annual CO2 emissions decreased by 100.07% compared with the reference scenario, resulting in −0.042 kg CO2/m²/year. The overall energy performance class of the building was determined using Turkey's national calculation program for the preparation of the energy identity certificate. The energy performance class of the reference building was determined as D, and the class of the building designed according to S8 as A. Investment evaluations were carried out for the retrofit scenarios, revealing that the investment cost for S8, having the lowest net primary energy consumption, amounted to USD 17,565.87. This finding establishes S8 as a more financially viable option in the short term. This study demonstrates the potential of NZEBs in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving sustainable development goals.
Shorter Goals for the Faster Life: Childhood Unpredictability Is Associated With Shorter Motivational Time Horizons
Authors: Martínez José L. , Maner Jon K.
Published: December 2023

Models of adaptive calibration provide an overarching theoretical framework for understanding the developmental roots of psychological and behavioral outcomes in adulthood. An adaptive calibration framework was used to examine an important dimension of motivation: goal timing. Across two studies, we saw mixed support for the hypothesis that unpredictability experienced in childhood would be negatively associated with the time horizons people use to set their goals, such that people who reported experiencing more unpredictability in their childhood tended to set goals on relatively shorter time horizons. The association was observed based on independent ratings of goal timing, but not based on participants’ self-reported ratings of goal timing, and was statistically mediated by people’s tendency to consider the short- versus long-term future consequences of their actions. These studies isolate a key component of childhood adversity—unpredictability—potentially underlying the time horizons people use to set, prioritize, and pursue their goals.
Factors associated with in-hospital and outpatient survival of patients with different types of stage IV cancer and venous thromboembolism
Authors: Reyes Edgar Julián , Ruiz-Talero Paula , Arenas Mayra Alejandra , Hernández-Flórez Catalina , Muñoz Oscar M
Published: December 2023

Objective

To identify factors associated with in-hospital and outpatient survival of patients with different types of stage IV cancer who present with venous thromboembolic disease (VTE).

Methods

In this prospective cohort, in-hospital and outpatient survival rates up to 180 days were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves. Cox regression was used to identify factors associated with different survival functions.

Results

One hundred patients were analyzed (median age, 67.5 years; 75% with Charlson index of <10; 69% with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score of 3–4). In-hospital mortality was 18%, and the median time from admission to death was 11 days (interquartile range, 1–61 days). Factors significantly associated with in-hospital mortality were the ECOG score and thrombocytopenia. The 180-day mortality rate was 52%, with deaths mainly occurring in the first 90 days since VTE diagnosis. Additional factors significantly associated with outpatient mortality included male sex and neoplasms with a high risk of thrombosis (lung, pancreas, stomach, uterus, bladder, and kidney neoplasms).

Conclusion

Patients with stage IV cancer and acute VTE have short survival. Poor prognostic factors are thrombocytopenia, the ECOG score, and certain types of cancer. These results may help physicians individualize decisions regarding initiation and continuation of anticoagulant therapy.
Pediatric Cluster Headache Case Series: Symptomatic Cases and the Migraine Relationship
Authors: Eberhard Spencer W. , Jackman Christopher T.
Published: December 2023

Background

Current criteria help differentiate cluster headache from migraine. However, children may have overlapping features making it difficult to distinguish the 2 conditions, which may delay diagnosis. Differentiating cluster headache from migraine is important regarding treatment as well as diagnostic workup of secondary headache etiologies.

Methods

Cases at a single pediatric children's hospital from 2015 to 2023 diagnosed with cluster headache before the age of 18 years were reviewed.

Results

Twenty-five cases were identified of which 22 cases met criteria for either chronic, episodic, or probable cluster headache. Three cases were diagnosed with cluster headache by their provider, but documentation was insufficient to meet criteria for cluster headache. There were 16 females and 9 males between ages 6 and 17 years. Five cases were identified as symptomatic, 2 cases as chronic, 7 cases as episodic, and 13 cases as probable cluster headache. Symptomatic etiologies include Graves disease, optic neuritis, prolactinoma, hypothalamic pilocytic astrocytoma with carotid stenosis, and congenital right eye blindness. Migrainous features were common, including 76% with nausea, 36% with vomiting, 68% with photophobia, and 56% with phonophobia. Patients with cluster headache also had an independent diagnosis of migraine in 64%.

Conclusion

Children with cluster headache have a high frequency of migrainous symptoms and co-occurrent diagnosis of migraine. A careful history may differentiate cluster headache from migraine and treated accordingly. Children with cluster headache features should undergo screening for secondary causes with appropriate imaging and other studies. Except for prolactinoma, the symptomatic associations noted in this case series have not been reported before.
Effect of autoclaving on the dimensional stability and surface characteristics of 3D printed PVDF composite-based implants
Authors: Husain Minhaz , Singh Rupinder , Pabla BS
Published: December 2023

In the past decade, a lot of work has been reported on the use of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based thermoplastic composites as energy storage devices, and implant materials. But hitherto little has been reported on the dimensional stability and surface characteristics of 3D-printed PVDF composites after autoclaving for implant applications. In this study, the effect of autoclaving on surface characteristics (Shore-D hardness, surface roughness (Ra), morphological characteristics), and dimensional stability of 3D printed PVDF-hydroxyapatite (HAp)- chitosan (CS) composite has been reported for implant applications. The signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio approach was used to ascertain the best setting of process parameters for 3D printing by fused filament fabrication (FFF) process. This study suggests that the best setting for the FFF process, for the 3D printing of PVDF composite (90%PVDF-8%HAp-2%CS) are the nozzle temperature (NT) of 225°C, raster angle (RA) 0°, and printing speed (PS) 40 mm/s, resulting in Shore-D hardness 48.5 HD (before autoclaving) and 55.0 HD (after autoclaving), dimensional deviation 0.01 mm (after autoclaving). The results are supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis.
An analytical approach to the stiffness calculation of statically indeterminate 3-DOF delta parallelogram-type parallel robot
Authors: Dastjerdi Amir Hashemi , Sheikhi Mohammad Morad , Tale Masouleh Mehdi
Published: December 2023

This paper introduces an analytical approach entailing a clear physical meaning for calculating the stiffness of the 3-DOF Delta parallel robot. By defining suitable linear and torsion springs, the stiffness of the robot components in different postures and the stiffness coefficients of the indeterminate parallelogram under conceivable wrenches are comprehensively obtained. Moreover, the stiffness coefficients for each limb chain are assigned, and then by considering the assigned stiffness coefficients and static equilibriums the indeterminate problem of 3-RUU DPRs is solved. By reformulating the forward kinematics which takes into account the deflected components and based on the elastic properties, the deflection in each manipulator component is calculated and the amount of moving platform twist is obtained. The proposed approach is validated by the FEA method and results reveal that the maximum error of the proposed method is 0.1489° in the orientation and 0.1420 mm in translation compared to the FEA. Then to avoid the problem of different units of translation and orientation in indexing, the virtual work concept is used for assigning an index number.
Reexamining the impact of financial development on ecological footprint: The roles of population aging, per capita GDP, and technological innovation
Authors: Li Rongrong , Hu Sailan , Cheng Xinchen , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2023

Existing research results on the impact of financial development on ecological footprint are inconsistent or even opposite. In order to better understand the impact of financial development on ecological footprint, this study explores the relationship between financial development and ecological footprint from the perspectives of population aging, GDP per capita, and technological innovation. The results show that when the population aging level is below the threshold, the coefficient of financial development on ecological footprint is 0.285, but when the aging level exceeds the second threshold, the coefficient of financial development on ecological footprint becomes faint negative. Similarly, after per capita GDP crosses the threshold, the correlation coefficient between financial development and ecological footprint turns from positive to faint negative. Compared to this, when the level of technological innovation is below the threshold, the coefficient of financial development and ecological footprint is 0.155, while when the level of technological innovation is above the threshold, the coefficient of financial development and ecological footprint is −0.597. The above results indicates that the impact of financial development on the ecological footprint is affected by other factors. Compared with changes in population structure (aging) and social wealth (GDP per capita), technological innovation has a greater impact on the relationship between financial development and ecological footprint.
Do tourism and CO2 emission predict technological innovation in developing countries: Examining Porter and innovative Claudia curve hypothesis
Authors: Kumail Tafazal , Ali Wajahat , Sadiq Farah , Baqar Mujtaba
Published: December 2023

The accelerating concentration of CO2 emissions is attributed to human activities worldwide, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. There is an outcry for innovations to combat the environmental threat to even the existence of the human race. From this perspective, the current study aims to analyze the significance of technological innovation, tourism development, economic growth, and human development from the environmental perspective under the idea of carbon neutrality from 1996 to 2019. The study utilized dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) to estimate the relationship between the study variables and the panel vector error correction model to showcase the variables’ short and long-run connections. Results reveal that CO2 emissions positively affect technological innovations, which is evidence of the Porter hypothesis. The study showed that the gross domestic product, tourism, and human development index are good innovation indicators and supported the growth-led innovation hypothesis. This study supports the innovative Claudia curve theory between technology and CO2 emissions. Moreover, the study also investigated the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis during the study period. The causality analysis also supports the long-run results of DOLS. Based on the results, the study has implications for future researchers, policymakers, and regulatory bodies in developing countries to achieve carbon neutrality and Agenda 2030.