bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DO STRONGER PATENTS LEAD TO FASTER INNOVATION? THE EFFECT OF CLUSTERED SEARCH
Authors: Das Kaustav , Klein Nicolas
Published: February 2024

We analyze a patent race between two firms choosing between an established and an innovative method. The unique Markov‐perfect equilibrium coincides with the cartel solution if and only if firms have the same ability of leveraging a good innovative method or there is no patent protection. Otherwise, equilibrium efforts are clustered too much in the innovative method, as compared to the cartel benchmark. The expected time to a breakthrough is minimized at an interior patent strength. Thus, a decrease in R&D productivity can go hand‐in‐hand with a concentration of research efforts in riskier areas and stronger patent protections.
Predicting health effects of food compounds via ensemble machine learning
Authors: Mei Suyu
Published: February 2024

Identifying natural or synthetic compounds in foods and assaying their bioactivities have significantly contributed to promoting human health. In this work, we propose a machine learning framework to predict 101 classes of health effects of food compounds at a large scale. In this framework, random undersampling boosting (RUSBoost) is used as base learners to tackle the problem of skewed class distributions and MACCSKeys similarity spectra are proposed as a feature engineering strategy to represent chemical molecules including food compounds, natural products and drugs. Computational results show that RUSBoost learners encouragingly reduce model biases, and that the knowledge learnt from food compounds is well transferable to natural products (0.8406–0.9040 recall rates for antibacterial, antivirals, pesticide and anticancer effects) and drugs (0.789–0.9690 recall rates for antibacterial, antiviral, antineoplastic and analgesic effects). and. Dozens of novel effects have been validated in recent literature. These pieces of evidence show that the proposed framework could help us to find lead compounds from food as potential pharmaceuticals and repurpose drugs for anticancer, antiviral or antibacterial therapies. Finally, we use the proposed framework to predict beneficial and risky health effects of food flavour compounds as case studies for recipe composing.
Efficacy and safety of bipolar fractional radiofrequency vs. 2940‐nm Er:YAG ablative fractional laser in striae distensae treatment: A split abdomen study
Authors: Shen Jie , Jin Jing‐Jing , Huang Jian‐Hua , Wang Hong‐Wei , Shi Lei
Published: February 2024

Background

Striae distensae (SD) is a challenging cosmetic condition. Ablative fractional laser (AFL) is an effective method for treating SD. Recently, fractional radiofrequency (FRF) has been shown to be a promising treatment for SD; however, few studies have shown the differences between FRF and AFL in the treatment of SD.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy and safety of bipolar FRF with 2940‐nm erbium yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) AFL in the treatment of SD.

Patients/Methods

Twenty volunteers with abdominal SD were enrolled in this study. One half of the abdomen was treated with 2940‐nm Er:YAG AFL, whereas the other half was treated with bipolar FRF, with three sessions at 4‐week intervals. Photographic evaluations of clinical improvement were conducted by two independent investigators before and after treatment, and the patients provided self‐assessments. Two participants underwent three punch biopsies, one before treatment and two obtained from bilateral representative skin lesions on the abdomen 3 months following the final treatment.

Results

Clinical improvements were observed in SD on both sides of the abdomen after the two treatments. Post‐treatment skin biopsies revealed increased thickness in the epidermis and dermis, and higher collagen and elastin density compared to those at the baseline. No statistically significant differences were observed in the clinical outcomes between the two treatment approaches.

Conclusions

The efficacy and safety of bipolar FRF treatment are comparable to those of 2940‐nm Er:YAG AFL treatment, providing an alternative and effective treatment for SD.
Comparisons of the mean differences and standardized mean differences for continuous outcome measures on the same scale
Authors: Jing Yaqi , Lin Lifeng
Published: February 2024

When conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses of continuous outcomes, the mean differences (MDs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs) are 2 commonly used choices for effect measures. The SMDs are motivated by scenarios where studies collected in a systematic review do not report the continuous measures on the same scale. The standardization process transfers the MDs to be unit-free measures that can be synthesized across studies. As such, some evidence synthesis researchers tend to prefer the SMD over the MD. However, other researchers have concerns about the interpretability of the SMD. The standardization process could also yield additional heterogeneity between studies. In this paper, we use simulation studies to illustrate that, in a scenario where the continuous measures are on the same scale, the SMD could have considerably poorer performance compared with the MD in some cases. The simulations compare the MD and SMD in various settings, including cases where the normality assumption of continuous measures does not hold. We conclude that although the SMD remains useful for evidence synthesis of continuous measures on different scales, the SMD could have substantially greater biases, greater mean squared errors, and lower coverage probabilities of CIs than the MD. The MD is generally more robust to the violation of the normality assumption for continuous measures. In scenarios where continuous measures are inherently comparable or can be transformed to a common scale, the MD is the preferred choice for an effect measure.
The sociopolitical in human genetics education
Authors: Duncan R. G. , Krishnamoorthy R. , Harms U. , Haskel-Ittah M. , Kampourakis K. , Gericke N. , Hammann M. , Jimenez-Aleixandre M. , Nehm R. H. , Reiss M. J. , Yarden A.
Published: February 2024

Education must go beyond only countering essentialist and deterministic views of genetics
Tandem modules get better
Authors: Chen Cong , Zhao Dewei
Published: February 2024

An all-perovskite tandem solar module breaks 24% efficiency
Complete genome sequence of
Afipia carboxidovorans
strain SH125, a non-denitrifying nitrous oxide-reducing bacterium isolated from anammox biomass
Authors: Oba Kohei , Yasuda Shohei , Terada Akihiko
Published: February 2024

Here, we report a genome sequence of
Afipia carboxidovorans
strain SH125 isolated from an anammox reactor. This facultative anaerobic strain possesses the clade I-type nitrous oxide (N
2
O) reductase gene, devoid of nitrite- and nitric oxide reductase genes. Deciphering the genome will help explore N
2
O reducers instrumental in N
2
O mitigation.
Mapping niche-specific two-component system requirements in uropathogenic
Escherichia coli
Authors: Brannon John R. , Reasoner Seth A. , Bermudez Tomas A. , Comer Sarah L. , Wiebe Michelle A. , Dunigan Taryn L. , Beebout Connor J. , Ross Tamia , Bamidele Adebisi , Hadjifrangiskou Maria
Published: February 2024

Sensory systems allow pathogens to differentiate between different niches and respond to stimuli within them. A major mechanism through which bacteria sense and respond to stimuli in their surroundings is two-component systems (TCSs). TCSs allow for the detection of multiple stimuli to lead to a highly controlled and rapid change in gene expression. Here, we provide a comprehensive list of TCSs important for the pathogenesis of uropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(UPEC). UPEC accounts for >75% of urinary tract infections (UTIs) worldwide. UTIs are most prevalent among people assigned female at birth, with the vagina becoming colonized by UPEC in addition to the gut and the bladder. In the bladder, adherence to the urothelium triggers
E. coli
invasion of bladder cells and an intracellular pathogenic cascade. Intracellular
E. coli
are safely hidden from host neutrophils, competition from the microbiota, and antibiotics that kill extracellular
E. coli
. To survive in these intimately connected, yet physiologically diverse niches
E. coli
must rapidly coordinate metabolic and virulence systems in response to the distinct stimuli encountered in each environment. We hypothesized that specific TCSs allow UPEC to sense these diverse environments encountered during infection with built-in redundant safeguards. Here, we created a library of isogenic TCS deletion mutants that we leveraged to map distinct TCS contributions to infection. We identify—for the first time—a comprehensive panel of UPEC TCSs that are critical for infection of the genitourinary tract and report that the TCSs mediating colonization of the bladder, kidneys, or vagina are distinct.

IMPORTANCE

While two-component system (TCS) signaling has been investigated at depth in model strains of
Escherichia coli
, there have been no studies to elucidate—at a systems level—which TCSs are important during infection by pathogenic
Escherichia coli
. Here, we report the generation of a markerless TCS deletion library in a uropathogenic
E. coli
(UPEC) isolate that can be leveraged for dissecting the role of TCS signaling in different aspects of pathogenesis. We use this library to demonstrate, for the first time in UPEC, that niche-specific colonization is guided by distinct TCS groups.
Advancing
Toxoplasma gondii
multiplex serology
Authors: Jeske Rima , Becker Nico , Kroeller Lea , Mentzer Alexander J. , Brenner Nicole , Guy Edward , Waterboer Tim , Butt Julia
Published: February 2024

Toxoplasma gondii
is a highly prevalent pathogen causing zoonotic infections with significant public health implications. Yet, our understanding of long-term consequences, associated risk factors, and the potential role of co-infections is still limited. Seroepidemiological studies are a valuable approach to address open questions and enhance our insights into
T. gondii
across human populations. Here, we present substantial advancements to our previously developed
T. gondii
multiplex serology assay, which is based on the immunodominant antigens SAG1 and P22. While our previous bead-based assay quantified antibody levels against multiple targets in a high-throughput fashion requiring only a small sample volume, impaired assay characteristics emerged in sample dilutions beyond 1:100 and when being transferred to magnetic beads. Both are now critical for inclusion in large-scale seroprevalence studies. Using the truncated versions, SAG1D1 and P22trunc, significantly enhanced signal-to-noise ratios were achieved with almost perfect concordance with the gold-standard Sabin–Feldman dye test. In sample dilutions of 1:100, the diagnostic accuracy of SAG1D1 and P22trunc reached sensitivities (true positive rates) of 98% and 94% and specificities (true negative rates) of 93% and 95%, respectively. Importantly, performance metrics were reproducible in a 1:1,000 sample dilution, using both magnetic and nonmagnetic beads. Thresholds for seropositivity were derived from finite mixture models and performed equally well as thresholds by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Our improved multiplex serology assay is therefore able to generate robust and reproducible performance metrics under various assay conditions. Inclusion of
T. gondii
antibody measurements with other pathogens, in multiplex serology panels will allow for large-scale seroepidemiological research.

IMPORTANCE

Toxoplasma gondii
is a pathogen of significant public health concern due to its widespread prevalence and zoonotic potential. However, our understanding of key aspects, such as risk factors for infection and disease, potential outcomes, and their trends, remains limited. Seroepidemiological studies in large cohorts are invaluable for addressing these questions but remain scarce. Our revised multiplex serology assay equips researchers with a powerful tool capable of delivering
T. gondii
serum antibody measurements with high sensitivity and specificity under diverse assay conditions. This advancement paves the way for the integration of
T. gondii
antibody measurements into multi-pathogen multiplex serology panels, promising valuable insights into public health and pathogen interactions.
Effect of smoking cessation interventions on abstinence and tuberculosis treatment outcomes among newly diagnosed patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tahir , Zaheer Sidra , Amar Washdev , Shafique Kashif
Published: February 2024

The study evaluates the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions [Behavioral Change Communication (BCC) and Behavioral Change Communication plus bupropion (BCC+)] compared to conventional Directly Observed Therapy Short Course (DOT) treatment in improving pulmonary tuberculosis treatment outcomes and abstinence among newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients, highlighting the scarcity of robust experimental studies. The current randomized controlled trial, conducted at Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases between October 2017 and June 2019, randomized 292 patients who were current smokers with newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis into three arms: control (
n
= 97), BCC (
n
= 97), and BCC+ (
n
= 98) arms. The outcomes of the interventions were compared in terms of favorable treatment outcomes and abstinence achieved at the end of 6 months. Baseline characteristics were compared between groups. Cox regression quantified the effect size of interventions for both outcome variables and reported as (crude and adjusted) hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI). No statistically significant difference was observed in baseline characteristics in each arm. Both BCC+ and BCC showed a statistically significant effect in achieving favorable PTB outcomes at 6 months (aHR 2.37, 95% CI 1.52–3.70 and aHR 2.34, 95% CI 1.51–3.60), as well as for abstinence from smoking at 6 months (BCC+: aHR 4.03, 95% CI 2.18–7.44 and BCC: aHR 3.87, 95% CI 2.12–7.05) compared to the control arm. Both BCC and BCC+ aided by pharmacologic agents such as bupropion when incorporated with conventional DOTs were found to be significantly effective in attaining favorable tuberculosis treatment outcomes as well as in attaining smoking abstinence at the end of the 6-month treatment.

IMPORTANCE

This study shows that adding smoking cessation programs (with or without extra drugs like bupropion) to standard Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTs) treatment for people who have recently been diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis has a great positive impact on how well the overall antituberculosis treatment works. Our trial shows very promising results for such a combined therapy (DOTs and smoking cessation) in a country where the burden of both tuberculosis and smoking is very high.
Orthopaedic trauma patients’ experiences with emergency department care and follow-up through Virtual Fracture Care review: a qualitative study
Authors: Willinge Gijs JA , Spierings Jelle F , Mathijssen Elke M , Goslings J Carel , Twigt Bas T , van Veen Ruben N
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to identify factors influencing orthopaedic trauma patients’ experiences and satisfaction with emergency department (ED) care and follow-up through Virtual Fracture Care (VFC) review workflow.

Design

This study employed an explorative, descriptive, qualitative design using individual, semistructured interviews.

Setting

An urban level 2 trauma centre and teaching hospital in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Participants

Eligible patients were Dutch-speaking or English-speaking orthopaedic trauma patients, aged 18 years or above, who visited the hospital’s ED between June and September 2022, and were treated through VFC review workflow. Exclusion criteria were: reason for follow-up other than injury, eye/motor/verbal score <15 at ED admission, follow-up treatment in another hospital, treatment initiated in another hospital, acute hospital admission (<24 hours). Twenty-three patients were invited for participation, of whom 15 participated and were interviewed.

Results

Several influential factors contributed to seven generic themes: (1) waiting times, (2) information provision, (3) healthcare professional communication, (4) care expectations, (5) care coordination, (6) care environment and (7) patient condition. Overall, participants were satisfied with received care. Interpersonal skills of healthcare professionals, and timing and content of provided information were specifically valued. Additionally, patients stated that their needs in the ED differed from those after ED discharge, and appreciated the way the VFC review workflow addressed this. Points of improvement included more active involvement of patients in the care process and prevention of inconsistent instructions by different healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

Patient experiences with ED care and VFC review follow-up are influenced by factors categorised into seven themes. The VFC review workflow effectively addresses these factors, leading to positive feedback. Recommendations for healthcare professionals include anticipating evolving post-ED information needs, engaging patients early to provide clarity about the care process, involving them in treatment decisions and expanding information provision across the entire care pathway.
Sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy and its predictors among patients with diabetes visiting Adare General Hospital in Southern Ethiopia: a hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Alemayehu Henok Biruk , Tilahun Mikias Mered , Abebe Marshet Gete , Tegegn Melkamu Temeselew
Published: February 2024

Objective

The study aimed to determine the prevalence of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy and its predictors among patients with diabetes attending Adare General Hospital in Southern Ethiopia.

Design

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a systematic random sampling method.

Setting

The study was conducted at the diabetic clinic of Adare General Hospital in Sidama region, Southern Ethiopia.

Participants

The study included 391 patients with diabetes aged ≥18 years who had attended the diabetic clinic of Adare General Hospital in Southern Ethiopia.

Main outcome measures

Data were collected using questionnaires completed by an interviewer, a review of medical records and eye examinations.

Result

The study included 391 patients with diabetes with a median age of 49 years. The prevalence of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy was 10.7% (95% CI: 7.7% to 14%). Rural dwellers (adjusted OR (AOR)=2.17, 95% CI: 1.05 to 4.46), duration of diabetes ≥6 years (AOR=2.43, 95% CI: 1.06 to 5.57), poor glycaemic control (AOR=2.80, 95% CI: 1.03 to 7.64), low physical activity (AOR=2.85, 95% CI: 1.01 to 8.05), hypertension (AOR=3.25, 95% CI: 1.48 to 7.15) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (AOR=3.32, 95% CI: 1.18 to 9.33) were significantly associated with sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusion

This study showed a high prevalence of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy. Sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy was significantly associated with modified factors such as glycaemic control, hypertension, physical activity and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, all patients with diabetes were recommended to maintain normal blood glucose, avoid hypertension, exercise regularly and have regular eye examinations.
Mortality and health-related quality of life in older adults with long-term use of opioids, z-hypnotics or benzodiazepines: a prospective observational study at 5 years follow-up
Authors: Bjelkarøy Maria Torheim , Simonsen Tone Breines , Siddiqui, Tahreem Ghazal , Cheng Socheat , Grambaite Ramune , Benth Jūratė Šaltytė , Lundqvist Christofer
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Disease and medication use in older age is a consequence of age-related declining health. Multimorbidity followed by polypharmacy is common. Central nervous system depressing (CNSD) drugs such as opioids, benzodiazepines and z-hypnotics are not recommended for long-term use in older adults but are in use by many. We aimed to assess mortality and change in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults with long-term use of CNSDs.

Method

A prospective observational study was conducted at Akershus University Hospital, Norway, 2017–2019, with follow-up in 2021–2022, including 246 participants aged 65–90. At 5-year follow-up, 78 (32%) participants had passed away. Mortality data were collected from patient electronic health records. Of the surviving 168 (68%), we collected further follow-up data from 38 (16%) participants. Follow-up included demographic and clinical data. The EuroQuol Group EQ-5D-5L questionnaire was used to measure HRQoL. Analysis include Cox regression model for survival data and linear mixed model for change in HRQoL over time.

Results

At follow-up, 78 (31.7%) were deceased. Mean survival time was 3.3 years. Total time for survival data was 4.7 years. Mortality was higher among participants with long-term use of CNSD (HR 1.9 95% CI (1.2 to 3.2), p=0.01). The multivariable analysis found being older (HR 1.1 95% CI (1.0 to 1.1), p=0.020) and male sex (HR 2.1 95% CI (1.2 to 3.5), p=0.008) to be associated with increased risk of mortality. According to the linear mixed model (n=38), there was no significant difference between surviving users and non-users in change in HRQoL EQ-5D-5L index from baseline to follow-up.

Conclusion

Mortality was higher for long-term users of CNSDs at 5-year follow-up. Being older and male sex were associated with mortality. Among survivors, there was no significant difference between the groups in change of HRQoL over time.

Trial registration number

NCT03162081; 22 May 2017.
Post-traumatic growth among emergency nurses after COVID-19 in Shanghai, China: a qualitative study
Authors: Jiang Jinxia , Liu Yue , Han Peng , Zhang Pengjia , Shao Haiyan , Dai Zhenjuan , Zhuang Yugang
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the post-traumatic growth of emergency nurses (ENs) in Shanghai, China, in 2022 following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

A phenomenological qualitative research approach was employed, with 17 ENs being interviewed between July and August 2022. Data collection was conducted through semistructured, in-depth interviews, and data analysis was carried out using the Colaizzi’s seven-step analysis method.

Setting

A third-level hospital in Shanghai.

Participants

A total of 17 ENs were interviewed through face-to-face, semistructured, in-depth interviews.

Results

Three main themes and eight subthemes were extracted from the data: (a) stress, (b) restructuring and (c) growth.

Conclusion

Significant stress was imposed on ENs by the Shanghai COVID-19 pandemic, but cognitive restructuring was successfully undergone by them, leading to the experience of growth. It is recommended that post-traumatic growth levels be enhanced through professional psychological counselling and tailored support measures for different stages.
Exploring the palliative care ecosystem in Thailand: a protocol for a scoping review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Phenwan Tharin , Anantapong Kanthee , Sripaew Supakorn , Vinayavekhin Sukrit
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Palliative care is an approach that aims to holistically improve the quality of life, care and death of people living with life-limiting conditions as well as their families. In Thailand, palliative care became one of its national strategies as of 2014. However, the access to as well as the quality of palliative care being delivered still varies across the nation, due to multiple factors spanning multiple levels. Consequently, there is a need to comprehensively understand the current palliative care ecosystem in Thailand. This review aims to explore, map and conceptualise the literature available on the palliative care ecosystem in Thailand, and how the service being delivered influences the quality of life, death and care of people living with life-limiting conditions alongside their families.

Methods and analysis

This review will consist of two stages. First, a scoping review guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews will be initially conducted. A systematic literature search using Medical Subject Heading and text words related to palliative care will be performed in PubMed, CINAHL and Thai Citation Index from 2013 to 2023. Grey literature will be searched via alternative sources: Google keyword searching and stakeholders consultation. References of included sources will be handsearched to identify further resources.

The population, concept and context framework is used to frame the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This will be further refined after the initial search, reflecting the iterative nature of a scoping review. Articles will be independently screened by three reviewers. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet will be used as the data extraction tool. Data will be extracted and presented using a narrative synthesis approach.

Second, included articles from the scoping review will be further analysed and visualised using a bibliometric analysis technique. This stage involves a computational method, including statistical analysis and content analysis of the articles’ bibliographic details.

Ethics and dissemination

This paper describes a protocol for a scoping review and bibliographical analysis. As such, ethical approval was not required. Information relating to the review will be stored with Open Science Framework Registries. The findings of this proposed scoping review will be distributed through a peer-reviewed publication, academic seminars, conferences and patients and public involvement groups.
Improving patient safety through mandatory quality improvement (QI) education in a family medicine residency programme
Authors: Goldstein Shira , des Bordes Jude K A , Neher Samuel , Rianon Nahid
Published: February 2024

Although the American College of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requires that medical trainees acquire competencies in patient safety and quality improvement (QI), no standard curriculum exists. We envisaged that a sustainable QI curriculum would be a pragmatic way to improve residents’ skills and competence in patient safety. Our aim was to develop and evaluate a patient safety-oriented QI curriculum in an established family medicine residency programme. A patient safety curriculum fulfilling ACGME requirements was developed and implemented in a family residency programme. The curriculum comprised didactics, self-paced online modules, experiential learning through individual QI projects, and mortality and morbidity conferences. The programme was evaluated using a survey at the end of its first year. We assessed knowledge on patient safety and QI, confidence in discussing safety concerns with peers, and ability to recognise safety gaps and initiate corrective actions. We also assessed the perception of the programme’s relevance to the residents’ training. All 36 residents participated, 19 completed the evaluation survey. Fifteen (79%) respondents reported learning more about the causes of medical errors, 42% could report safety concerns and 26% could recognise quality gaps. In addition, 58% felt the curriculum increased their confidence in discussing patient safety concerns with peers while 74% found the curriculum very relevant to their training. Some participants described the programme as ‘very productive’. Embedding a QI curriculum into the ongoing residency training may be a realistic approach to training family medicine residents with no prior formal QI training.
Qualitative focus group discussions exploring PrEP method and service delivery preferences among female sex workers and their managers in four Zambian provinces
Authors: Evens Emily , Munthali Tendai , Mangunje Featherstone , Kotaka Mercy L , Burke Holly M , Musonda Bupe , Musonda Musonda , Todd Catherine S
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To describe the experiences of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use, preferences comparing oral PrEP to future long-acting PrEP products (the dapivirine vaginal ring (PrEP ring) and injectable cabotegravir (CAB PrEP)), and service provision preferences among female sex workers (FSWs) and their managers.

Methods

Qualitative formative focus group discussions were conducted in two urban (Copperbelt, Lusaka) and two rural (Central, Luapula) provinces in Zambia. Consenting participants included 43 FSWs and 36 sex work managers. Eligible participants self-identified as FSWs or sex work managers, were 18 years or older and spoke English, Nyanja or Bemba.

Results

FSWs had a median age of 28 years and 60% reported ever using oral PrEP. Among potential future HIV prevention options, most FSWs preferred longer acting PrEP methods, mainly CAB PrEP over the PrEP ring. This preference was consistent across provinces. Many FSWs had personal oral PrEP experience and appreciated the high effectiveness but conveyed that the realities of daily use, including pill visibility, and attributed side effects did not meet their needs. FSWs and managers also identified frequent stigma and misinformation-related barriers to PrEP access and use at community and facility levels. Most FSWs and managers agreed that informing non-paying or long-term partners of PrEP use was acceptable. Participants offered recommendations for greater sensitisation and peer-led services or service extension through trusted figures in the community.

Conclusions

Zambian FSWs and their managers preferred longer acting PrEP methods, particularly CAB PrEP, as part of comprehensive HIV prevention method choice, with little difference between provinces. PrEP programming led by FSW peers, managers or other trusted figures was recommended to address misinformation, sensitise partners and potentially deliver services to circumvent perceived stigma at health facilities.
Developing the Ready Military Medical Force: military-specific training in Graduate Medical Education
Authors: Baird Emily W , Lammers Daniel T , Betzold Richard D , Brown Shaun R , Tadlock Matthew D , Eckert Matthew J , Cox Daniel B , Kerby Jeffrey D , Gurney Jennifer M , Elster Eric A , Holcomb John B , Jansen Jan O
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Graduate Medical Education plays a critical role in training the next generation of military physicians, ensuring they are ready to uphold the dual professional requirements inherent to being both a military officer and a military physician. This involves executing the operational duties as a commissioned leader while also providing exceptional medical care in austere environments and in harm’s way. The purpose of this study is to review prior efforts at developing and implementing military unique curricula (MUC) in residency training programs.

Methods

We performed a literature search in PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Web of Science, and the Defense Technical Information Center through August 8, 2023, including terms “graduate medical education” and “military.” We included articles if they specifically addressed military curricula in residency with terms including “residency and operational” or “readiness training”, “military program”, or “military curriculum”.

Results

We identified 1455 articles based on title and abstract initially and fully reviewed 111. We determined that 64 articles met our inclusion criteria by describing the history or context of MUC, surveys supporting MUC, or military programs or curricula incorporated into residency training or military-specific residency programs.

Conclusion

We found that although there have been multiple attempts at establishing MUC across training programs, it is difficult to create a uniform curriculum that can be implemented to train residents to a single standard across services and specialties.
Advanced and alternative research methods for the acute care surgeon scientist
Authors: Meizoso Jonathan P , Byrne James , Ho Vanessa P , Neal Matthew D , Stein Deborah M , Haut Elliott R
Published: February 2024

Clinical research has evolved significantly over the last few decades to include many advanced and alternative study designs to answer unique questions. Recognizing a potential knowledge gap, the AAST Associate Member Council and Educational Development Committee created a research course at the 2022 Annual Meeting in Chicago to introduce junior researchers to these methodologies. This manuscript presents a summary of this AAST Annual Meeting session, and reviews topics including hierarchical modeling, geospatial analysis, patient-centered outcomes research, mixed methods designs, and negotiating complex issues in multicenter trials.
The Internet of Batteryless Things
Authors: Ahmed Saad , Islam Bashima , Yildirim Kasim Sinan , Zimmerling Marco , Pawełczak Przemysław , Alizai Muhammad Hamad , Lucia Brandon , Mottola Luca , Sorber Jacob , Hester Josiah
Published: February 2024

Batteryless, energy-harvesting systems could reshape the Internet of Things into a more sustainable societal infrastructure.
Stem Cells and Differentiation in Vascular Tissues
Authors: Hunziker Pascal , Greb Thomas
Published: February 2024

Plant vascular tissues are crucial for the long-distance transport of water, nutrients, and a multitude of signal molecules throughout the plant body and, therefore, central to plant growth and development. The intricate development of vascular tissues is orchestrated by unique populations of dedicated stem cells integrating endogenous as well as environmental cues. This review summarizes our current understanding of vascular-related stem cell biology and of vascular tissue differentiation. We present an overview of the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing the maintenance and fate determination of vascular stem cells and highlight the interplay between intrinsic and external cues. In this context, we emphasize the role of transcription factors, hormonal signaling, and epigenetic modifications. We also discuss emerging technologies and the large repertoire of cell types associated with vascular tissues, which have the potential to provide unprecedented insights into cellular specialization and anatomical adaptations to distinct ecological niches.
Polyamines: Their Role in Plant Development and Stress
Authors: Blázquez Miguel A.
Published: February 2024

This review focuses on the intricate relationship between plant polyamines and the genetic circuits and signaling pathways that regulate various developmental programs and the defense responses of plants when faced with biotic and abiotic aggressions. Particular emphasis is placed on genetic evidence supporting the involvement of polyamines in specific processes, such as the pivotal role of thermospermine in regulating xylem cell differentiation and the significant contribution of polyamine metabolism in enhancing plant resilience to drought. Based on the numerous studies describing effects of the manipulation of plant polyamine levels, two conceptually different mechanisms for polyamine activity are discussed: direct participation of polyamines in translational regulation and the indirect production of hydrogen peroxide as a defensive mechanism against pathogens. By describing the multifaceted functions of polyamines, this review underscores the profound significance of these compounds in enabling plants to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.
Ovarian Torsion in a Young Adolescent with Rokitansky Syndrome
Authors: Fedele Francesco , Esposito Giovanna , Busnelli Andrea , Parazzini Fabio
Published: February 2024

A case report of a premenarcheal patient with ovarian torsion and mullerian agenesis is presented. A 12-year-old prepubertal girl is presented with severe right lower quadrant abdominal pain and mild rebound. Laparoscopy showed mullerian agenesis and twisted right adnexa. Detorsion and cystectomy of the right ovary were done, and the ovary was fixed to the pelvic sidewall. The postoperative course was uneventful. An association between the lax attachment of the adnexa and torsion may be a contributing factor in this condition.
Isolated Central Nervous System Involvement after Brentuximab Vedotin Treatment for HIV-Positive ALK-Negative Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Suyama Takuya , Matsui Kumiko , Makihara Kosuke , Tsuru Masatoshi
Published: February 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated lymphoma poses a high mortality risk despite antiretroviral therapy (ART). Although intermediate- or high-grade B-cell lymphomas are common, anaplastic large-cell lymphomas (ALCLs) are rare and seldom affect the central nervous system (CNS). Herein, we present a case of HIV-associated ALCL with isolated CNS involvement that occurred following the discontinuation of ART that was administered after treatment with brentuximab vedotin (BV)—which does not cross the blood-brain barrier. At the time of CNS recurrence, the patient’s CD4 count was 9 cells/mm3. This is the first report of CNS recurrence in HIV-associated ALCL. Considering the high risk of CNS relapse, we suggest initiating CNS prophylaxis in cases of HIV-associated ALCL, particularly in patients receiving CNS-impermeable agents such as BV.
Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction: Predictive Factors and Outcomes for Men with Nonobstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Mahdy B. , La Croce G. , Roscigno M. , Manica M. , Da Pozzo L. , Sacca A.
Published: February 2024

Background. Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a frequent cause of male infertility, and microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (micro‐TESE) is an effective technique for sperm retrieval in NOA cases. However, the predictive factors for successful sperm retrieval and the outcomes of micro‐TESE in NOA patients are not fully understood. Methods. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the predictive value of preoperative data and outcomes of micro‐TESE in 172 men with NOA who underwent the procedure between April 2012 and February 2021. Patients’ age, medical history, testicular size, hormonal profile, testicular histology, and sperm retrieval were recorded. Results. 172 cases of micro‐TESE were performed (99 unilateral and 73 bilateral) and testicular sperm retrieval rate (SRR) was 72.7%. There was no statistical difference in age, testicular size, and hormonal profiles between positive SRR and negative SRR groups. Clinical varicocele and previous orchitis did not significantly affect the result of micro‐TESE. Y chromosome microdeletions were detected in seven patients. On histological examination, hypospermatogenesis was found in 39% of patients who underwent testicular biopsy. SRR was higher in patients with hypospermatogenesis than in other groups. Conclusions. Testicular microdissection is an effective and safe procedure for nonobstructive azoospermia patients, regardless of the different etiologies and preoperative data. Age, testicular size, and hormonal levels did not predict the success of micro‐TESE. The presence of hypospermatogenesis was associated with a higher SRR. Clinical varicocele and previous orchitis were not significantly associated with the outcome of micro‐TESE.
Virtual Teams: A Smart Literature Review of Four Decades of Research
Authors: Kimura Takuma
Published: February 2024

The increasing utilization of virtual teams—driven by advancements in information and communication technology and the forces of globalization—has spurred significant growth in both theoretical and empirical research. Based on the smart literature review framework, this study harnesses artificial intelligence techniques, specifically natural language processing and topic modeling, to extensively analyze the trends in virtual team research spanning the last four decades. Analyses of a dataset comprising 2,184 articles from Scopus-indexed journals discern 16 distinct topics, encompassing critical areas such as communication, leadership, and trust. The trajectory of research topics in this field has witnessed increasing diversification over time. Key subjects such as learning, communication, trust, and leadership have consistently maintained their presence among the ten most frequently explored topics. In contrast, emerging areas such as agile development and patient care have recently become some of the most prominent themes. Employing the state-of-the-art topic modeling technique, BERTopic, this study furnishes a comprehensive and dynamic panorama of the evolving landscape within virtual team research.
Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia of the Liver Incidentally Found in a 55‐Year‐Old Woman with a History of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Mizuta Noritoshi , Kikuchi Takuya , Kusano Shunsuke , Sano Nobuya
Published: February 2024

Reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (RLH) is a benign disease, rarely occurring in the liver. Reactive immune phenomenon has been reported in association with its occurrence, but the true pathogenesis is unknown. No case was reported in association with inflammatory bowel disease. We report a case of RLH of the liver in a patient with ulcerative colitis (UC). A 55‐year‐old woman with UC went to the outpatient clinic with abdominal pain, and antibiotics were prescribed with diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Imaging study detected a mass in the liver but ruled out appendicitis. She was referred to our hospital for further examination after pain improving. A 12 mm hypoechoic mass was detected in the liver on ultrasonography. There were no typical malignant findings on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Regular image follow‐up was recommended, but the patient strongly requested surgery because of family history of malignant disease. Laparoscopic partial hepatectomy was performed. Histopathological findings revealed a conglomerate hyperplasia of lymphoid follicles with germinal centers. Infiltrating lymphocytes were non‐neoplastic. Final diagnosis was RLH of the liver. UC is chronic inflammatory bowel disease and may be related to RLH, but there is no clear explanation at this point. This is the first known reported case of RLH of the liver in a patient with UC. But the relationship between the RLH and UC remains uncertain. Further investigation and case accumulation are necessary.
TABLE 1 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Pharmacokinetics of BMS-986351 in cynomolgus monkeys (n = 3) after dosing on day 1 and day 15 (values shown are means of repeated measurements)
FIGURE 5 from Discovery and Preclinical Activity of BMS-986351, an Antibody to SIRPα That Enhances Macrophage-mediated Tumor Phagocytosis When Combined with Opsonizing Antibodies
Authors: Chan Henry , Trout Christina V. , Mikolon David , Adams Preston , Guzman Roberto , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Abbasian Mahan , Hadjivassiliou Haralambos , Dearth Lawrence , Fox Brian A. , Sivakumar Pallavur , Cho Ho , Hariharan Kandasamy
Published: February 2024

Cross-reactivity of BMS-986351 in human (A), cynomolgus monkey (B), rat (C), and mouse (D). E, Immunophenotyping by multiparameter flow cytometry in human and cynomolgus monkeys shows that most CD14-positive cells (monocytes) also bind BMS-986351. F, Proportion of live cells expressing CD14 that bind BMS-986351 in humans and cynomolgus monkeys. G, Binding of BMS-986351 in specific lymphoid and myeloid cell subsets. Pharmacokinetic profiles (day 1 to 15; H) and hematology assessment (days 4, 7, and 28; I) of BMS-986351 dosed in cynomolgus monkeys (n = 3) at 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg. MFI, mean fluorescence intensity.
Impact of Interventional Bronchoscopy on Long-Term Survival in Patients with Primary Tracheal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Yazaki Tatsuya , Sonehara Kei , Araki Taisuke , Komatsu Masamichi , Tateishi Kazunari , Yasuo Masanori , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Primary tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma (TACC) is a rare low-grade lung cancer of bronchial gland origin. Surgery is the first choice of treatment; however, in cases of recurrence or inoperability, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy is administered as a multimodality treatment. Interventional bronchoscopy is also used as a multidisciplinary treatment; however, its impact on long-term prognosis has not been thoroughly investigated. Case Presentation: Eight patients diagnosed with TACC and treated at Shinshu University Hospital between December 2000 and August 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. We investigated the duration of intervention and overall survival (OS) in 3 patients with recurrence who underwent interventional bronchoscopy in combination with chemotherapy and evaluated whether interventional bronchoscopy prolonged the survival. The initial treatment for the 3 patients was surgery in 1 patient and chemoradiotherapy in 2. In all patients, raised lesions were observed in the trachea at the time of recurrence. The duration of interventional bronchoscopy, the time from recurrence of the first-line treatment to death, and OS, which was defined time from induction of the first-line treatment to death, were 69.3/70.7/112.5 months, 179.2/196.1/220.4 months, and 15.4/66.3/104.4 months, respectively. Conclusion: Long-term survival benefits may be obtained with concomitant interventional bronchoscopy in combination with chemotherapy in patients with locally recurrent TACC.
Teori Risiko Aktuaria
Authors: Handamari Endang Wahyu , Sa’adah Umu , Widhiatmoko Fery , Nabili Mohammad Taqi Fabwaz
Published: February 2024

Teori Risiko Aktuaria merupakan salah satu mata kuliah yang ada di setiap program studi Ilmu Aktuaria di Indonesia. Selain itu, pengetahuan tentang Teori Risiko Aktuaria sangat penting bagi pembaca yang berminat di bidang aktuaria. Buku ini ditulis dengan gaya bahasa sederhana sehingga mudah dipahami dan dipelajari. Pada buku disertakan juga latihan soal yang membantu pembaca untuk memahami dengan benar serta dapat mempersiapkan dalam menghadapi ujian yang diselenggarakan PAI. Buku ini dibagi menjadi 8 bab. Bab I membahas terkait model-model peluang kerugian berdasarkan distribusi statistik. Selanjutnya, pada Bab II dijelaskan pendekatan model secara stokastik dan deterministik. Selain itu, diberikan penjelasan terkait pendekatan menurut model-model tersebut. Bab III menjelaskan besaran atau nilai-nilai dari fungsi distribusi statistik yang akan digunakan pada perhitungan peluang risiko. Pada Bab IV dibahas karakteristik-karakteristik yang ada pada model aktuaria pada umumnya. Bab V membahas materi terkait modifikasi dan klasifikasi. Isi pada bab ini yaitu terkait perhitungan model risiko individu, yang memuat perhitungan risiko-risiko dari data banyak klaim dan besar klaim. Perhitungan tersebut digunakan dalam penentuan ekspektasi nilai kerugian yang bisa diprediksi oleh perusahaan asuransi. Berikutnya pada Bab VI model individu yang sudah dibahas pada bab sebelumnya dikembangkan untuk model risiko kolektif, dimana data yang akan diprediksi diperluas untuk suatu kelompok data dari nilai kerugian suatu perusahaan. Bab VII membahas terkait peluang ruin, yaitu menentukan peluang perusahaan akan mengalami kerugian untuk pertama kalinya. Bab VIII membahas terkait kontruksi atau pendekatan data melalui model empiris. Bab IX, sebagai penutup menjelaskan perhitungan pembayaran klaim asuransi berdasarkan pengelompokan banyak dan besar kerugian yang terjadi serta perhitungan limit polis.