bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in compressive mechanical properties between subacute and chronic venous thrombosis in a novel unilateral iliac thrombosis model
Authors: Parchment Nathaniel J , Argenti Christian , Sharma Sriganesh B , Moreno Oscar , Gordon David , Durham Laura , Forsythe Veronica , Williams David M , Wakefield Thomas W , Weidenhamer Nathan , Durant Myers Daniel , Khaja Minhaj S , Henke Peter K , Shih Albert J , Tara Obi Andrea
Published: January 2025

Background: Interventional therapies to relieve chronic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) fail through inability to penetrate, cross, and remove the occlusion. Development of suitable tools requires fundamental understanding of chronic DVT mechanical properties and a reliable model for testing. Methods: Female farm swine underwent a novel, endovenous generation of long-segment unilateral iliac vein thrombosis. Thrombus was confirmed via venogram, intravascular ultrasound, and transabdominal duplex for 14 days. Thrombus components were quantified via histology. Thrombus mechanical properties were assessed via uniaxial compression. Results: Among seven swine, technical success was 100%. Compared to subacute thrombi (7-day), chronic thrombi (14-day) showed organizing thrombus with diffuse myointimal thickening and collagen matrix formation on histology. The thrombi collagen content was 41% versus 55% ( p = 0.17) and the thrombus erythrocyte percentage was 4.3% versus 2.2%, p = 0.21 in 7- versus 14-day thrombi, respectively. The onset point (compression required to load the thrombus fiber network) was 66.6% versus 35.3% ( p = 0.004), the secant modulus (resistance to deformation) measured at the onset point was 153.8 versus 275.99 kPa ( p = 0.18), and the average shear constant (resistance to shearing), as defined by the Yeoh hyperelastic model, was 1.85 kPa versus 2.85 kPa in 7- versus 14-day thrombi. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of an endovenous model generating chronic unilateral venous thrombi in 2 weeks with similar anatomy to humans and provides critical mechanical properties of thrombi for future research.
Exploring conceptual understanding in teacher–student mediation in a Spanish as a foreign language classroom in China: A translanguaging perspective
Authors: Li Danli , Xu Ge , Qin Jian
Published: January 2025

Previous research on translanguaging in classrooms for a language other than English (LOTE) has shown that it helps learners compensate for limited language proficiency. Few studies have investigated how translanguaging promotes learners’ conceptual understanding of the target language. This study aims to investigate how a Chinese teacher mediates conceptual understanding of the target language among 15 Spanish major undergraduates in a Chinese university through pedagogical translanguaging. Data were collected from classroom observations, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. Microgenesis of the discourse reveals that teacher–student mediation through pedagogical translanguaging facilitates students’ conceptual understanding of Spanish linguistic and cultural knowledge, enhances metalinguistic awareness, and promotes self-regulation. Translanguaging space built up in classroom interaction fosters collaborative dialogue, creating inclusive learning environments. This study may illuminate how multilingual teachers leverage diverse linguistic and sociocultural knowledge to assist students in conceptualizing and internalizing target language form and meaning through translanguaging in LOTE education.
Is personhood lost after mental illness? Exploring the dynamic interface between personhood and mental illness in Ghana
Authors: Asafo Seth Mawusi , Osafo Joseph , Akotia Charity S. , Gyasi-Gyamerah Angela A. , Andoh-Arthur Johnny , Gavi Jonathan K.
Published: January 2025

Understanding of local conceptions of personhood and mental illness is central for developing therapeutic alliance and treatment regimens for persons living with mental illness. Such persons are exposed to several discriminatory behaviours yet factors that seem to encourage these behaviours are still not entirely understood. Personhood as construed from an emic perspective could potentially guide an understanding of societal attitudes toward individuals suffering from mental illness. This study explored Akan and Ewe conceptions of personhood in relation to mental illness. Using a semi-structured interview guide, seven Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted in the Tutu and Taviefe communities of the Eastern and Volta Regions of Ghana. A thematic analysis of interviews brought out three main themes: loss of sense of personhood during mental illness; liminality of personhood status after mental illness; and restoration of personhood status. Within these conceptions, activities such as restoring routines and occupational therapy could be utilized to “restore personhood” at least at the performative level. This demonstrates the dynamic interface between notions of personhood and mental illness with implications for stigma reduction.
Motion stability analysis of beaver-like robot
Authors: Chen Gang , Xu Yidong , Wang Zhenyu , Hu Huosheng , Wu Chuanyu
Published: January 2025

A stability index and evaluation method based on couple moment judgment are proposed for the motion stability of beaver-like robot. The index, expressed by the ratio of the recovery torque and external disturbance torque caused by gravity and buoyancy of the beaver-like robot, effectively evaluates the robot’s motion stability. The swimming stability index of beaver-like robot is calculated on the basis of Adams–Matlab co-simulation. Through comparative analysis of the indexes calculated in accordance with experimental and simulation data under different gaits, the stability of the robot in the rolling direction is confirmed to be worse under alternating gaits. The stability in the pitching direction is worse under synchronous gaits. Moreover, the increase of the motion amplitude of the propulsion structure (hind legs and tail) reduces the motion stability of the robot. This research can lay the foundation for stability criteria in underwater stable motion control and motion optimization of beaver-like robots.
Effect of a cement-bentonite grout on AVM glass alteration and C-steel corrosion at nanometer scale
Authors: Carriere Charly , Delanoë Alexis , Gin Stéphane , Gardes Emmanuel , Monnet Isabelle , Neff Delphine , Foy Eddy , Martin Christelle , Tocino Florent , Michau Nicolas , Dynes James Jay , Dillmann Philippe
Published: January 2025

Two experimental mockups were operated for one year at 70°C to study the corrosion of C-steel and alteration of AVM glass surrounded by Cox claystone. Only one system included cement-bentonite grout (CBG). Nanometer-scale analyses (TEM, XANES) examined the glass/C-steel interface to assess CBG's effects. The most notable difference was the presence of a nanometric magnetite layer on the C-steel surface in the CBG system. This layer, promoted by the slightly alkaline pH (8–10) solution influenced by CBG, could act as a passivating barrier, potentially mitigating corrosion, although corrosion rates showed no significant differences over one year. A 5 µm-thick sodium-depleted gel layer of disordered SiO2 formed on AVM glass in both systems, with similar porosity (14–20 nm). The open porosity may limit the gel's protective capacity. However, glass alteration rates decreased over time due to passivation mechanism primarily driven by reduced diffusion through the gel layer, with chemical affinity playing a lesser role. Secondary phases (Si-Fe-O, Si-Mg-O) were detected only in the CBG system, likely originating from the claystone or CBG rather than the glass itself. These findings indicate that CBG had little effect on AVM glass alteration but may enhance long-term C-steel corrosion resistance through magnetite layer formation.
Investigation on the synthesis of a triazine derivative and its corrosion inhibition performance in CO2-saturated brine
Authors: Hai Yan , Zhu Yuanqiang , Tang Lei , Wang Xu , Wang Yuqi , Chen Tong
Published: January 2025

The objective of developing effective triazine-based corrosion inhibitors aims to mitigate the significant issue of corrosion in carbon steel pipelines within oil and gas field environments. In the present study, we synthesised a corrosion inhibitor designated as ST-2 through a two-step process utilising melamine, octylamine, diethylenetriamine and ethanedioic acid as precursor materials. The structural characterisation of ST-2 was conducted using Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The performance of ST-2 in inhibiting corrosion at a temperature of 90°C was evaluated through static weight loss and electrochemical techniques, which demonstrated a corrosion inhibition efficiency of 92.14% at a concentration of 200 mg/L. The structure–activity relationship and film-forming mechanism of ST-2 were investigated through the application of functional theory and molecular dynamics simulations. The results revealed that the heteroatoms present in the molecule exhibited significant interactions with the metal substrate. At a corrosion inhibitor concentration of 200 mg/L, the absolute value of the adsorption energy was determined to be 1084.74 kcal/mol. Under these experimental conditions, the resulting corrosion inhibitor film exhibited maximum thickness, optimal densification and enhanced corrosion inhibition performance.
Stockpiling moral panics: The politics of anxiety and the securitization of ‘panic buyers’ in news media reporting of Covid-19
Authors: Phillips Tarryn , Couch Danielle , Vargas Carmen , Graham Melissa , Gleeson Deborah
Published: January 2025

People often respond to existential threats by stocking up on items they deem essential for survival. At the onset of COVID-19, Australians were among the fastest and most ardent to bulk buy supplies – especially toilet paper – leading to widespread shortages and tense scenes in supermarkets nationwide. In this article, we examine online and print news media representations of bulk buying behaviours at this time. Results highlight that the media disproportionately blamed shortages on lower socio-economic and migrant consumers and vilified them for panicking irrationally, threatening social decency and order, and being ‘un-Australian’. In turn, this rhetoric justified the logic that these shoppers should be criminalized, leading to heightened securitization in supermarkets. Paradoxically a moral panic about panic, this case study offers three contributions to moral panic literature. First, it reveals how different forms of anxiety receive differential responses. Both the compulsion to stockpile and the need to find someone to blame for the shortages were anxious responses to the conjunctural crisis of COVID-19. Yet bulk buying was widely denounced as irrational, while the expression of deep-seated anxieties about the behaviour of racialized and class-based ‘others’ was legitimated and popularized. Secondly, moral panics converge and exacerbate each other: widespread concern about ‘panic buyers’ was inflamed by being conceptually linked with earlier moral panics about hooded tops, gangs and Chinese migrants. Thirdly, moral panics not only direct blame but also deflect it. In this case, the imagined figure of a ‘crazy hoarder’ allowed wealthier, white Australians to morally differentiate their own bulk buying practices as reasonable preparation. It also distracted from structural precarities such as supermarket profiteering and weakened supply chains, highlighting how moral panics can exonerate those at the elite end of society for their involvement in conjunctural crises.
Exploration of Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention in Acute Liver Injury
Authors: Liu Xiling , Fu Xin , Shen Kuiling , Li Yaoqi , Kang Xichun , Li Shenghao , Yuan Wenfang , Lu Jianhua , Yan Huimin
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to explore the potential targets and molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of acute liver injury, as well as to predict traditional Chinese medicines associated with key targets.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with acute liver injury were first screened. Then immune infiltration analysis was performed using CIBERSORT algorithm, followed by Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) analysis. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes (KEGG) analyses of overlapping genes between DEG and WGCNA were performed using the DAVID database. The main active components of the predicted Chinese medicines were determined through network pharmacology analysis. In vitro experiment was performed to observe the effects of different concentrations of quercetin on the inflammatory response of LPS-induced J774A.1 macrophages.

Results

The results showed elevated M1 macrophages and activated dendritic cells in acute liver injury. A total of 40 DEGs associated with M1 macrophages were obtained, which were significantly enriched in four pathways, including the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway ( P < .05). Furthermore, eight potential traditional Chinese medicines associated with Toll-like receptor signaling were identified, and network pharmacological analysis revealed quercetin as their main active ingredient. In vitro experimental results showed that quercetin reduced the mRNA levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB as well as the protein levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced macrophages ( P < .05). Additionally, quercetin significantly inhibited the release of NO ( P < .05).

Conclusion

The present study provides further evidence that M1 macrophages potentially exert pro-inflammatory effects in acute liver injury via the toll-like receptor pathways. Notably, quercetin demonstrates inhibitory properties in this process, and its mechanism of action may be intricately linked to the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway.
Streams of Spirituality: Six Traditions in the Black Church
Authors: Clark E. Trey
Published: January 2025

African American Christian spirituality is a dynamic river with many streams. Unfortunately, the diversity of African American or Black spirituality is relatively under-examined in the academic field of Christian spirituality. Building on the work of Richard Foster, Robert M. Franklin, and Cheryl J. Sanders, this article offers a select examination of some of the diverse traditions or streams of spirituality within the Black Protestant church in the U.S. context. Specifically, the essay considers six streams of spirituality in the Black church: contemplative, liberationist, womanist, Holiness, Pentecostal/charismatic, and evangelical.
Factor XIa Inhibitor Reversal in Intracranial Hemorrhage: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Obeidi Arshed , Garavito Draia , Smalley Sierra , John Kayla , Jones Lee Ann , Key Nigel , Strohm Tamara
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives

There is currently no consensus regarding the optimal strategy for reversal of anticoagulation in life-threatening hemorrhage associated with factor XIa (FXIa) inhibitors.

Methods

For this clinical case report, informed consent was obtained from surrogate.

Results and Discussion

Here, we present the case of an 82-year-old female who sustained a large subdural hematoma after a fall. Her aPTT on admission was elevated at 90.4 s and remained persistently prolonged at 90.9 s 12-hour after receiving an adequate dose of 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC). She was found to have received a factor XIa inhibitor in a clinical trial, and subsequently received recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) 2 mg (45 mcg/kg) as a one-time dose, and tranexamic acid (TXA) 1 g intravenously for reversal given her intracranial bleeding in the setting of trauma complicated by recent factor XIa inhibitor use. However, given her clinical decline and high surgical risk, the patient’s family elected to withdraw care and she expired three days later. Reversal of FXIa inhibitors is challenging but may best be achieved using a combination of rFVIIa and TXA.

Practical Implications

Clinicians should consider administration of low dose recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) in conjunction with an anti-fibrinolytic inhibitor such as tranexamic acid (TXA) for reversal of life-threatening hemorrhage in bleeding patients with exposure to novel factor XIa inhibitors that are currently in clinical trials.
A Comparative Legal Analysis of Copyright and Patent of Outputs Generated by Artificial Intelligence: In Search of Possible Approaches for Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Tanveer
Published: January 2025

The invention of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has posed numerous legal challenges across various fields, including intellectual property law. What once existed solely in science fiction movies and novels has now become a tangible reality. The capabilities of AI have reached such an extent that it can rival the human brain, generating works that not only match human intellect but, in some cases, exceed it. While AI offers multiple advantages, it is not without its drawbacks. Traditionally, intellectual property protection applied exclusively to human-generated works, with only humans recognized as the owners of such creations. However, with the invention of AI and its creative capacity, the matters of ‘protectability’ and ‘ownership’ of creative and inventive works have become increasingly ambiguous and demand resolution. Since international conventions like the Berne Convention or the TRIPS Agreement do not provide any clear guidelines on this matter, every nation has the latitude to determine the legal status of AI outputs within their national boundary. Therefore, the objective of this article is to analyse the legal complexities of extending IP protection to AI-generated outputs and propose potential solution for Bangladesh. To achieve this objective, the article adopts a qualitative methodology. In addition to analysing national laws of different countries, the primary international instruments analysed include, but are not limited to, the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) and the European Patent Convention. The jurisdictions selected for the comparative study are the UK, USA, EU, India and Bangladesh.
Endocrine and metabolic alterations in response to systemic inflammation and sepsis: a review article
Authors: Mehdi Syed Faizan , Qureshi Muhammad Hamza , Pervaiz Salman , Kumari Karishma , Saji Edwin , Shah Mahnoor , Abdullah Ahmad , Zahoor Kamran , Qadeer Hafiza Amna , Katari Disha Kumari , Metz Christine , Mishra Lopa , LeRoith Derek , Tracey Kevin , Brownstein Michael J. , Roth Jesse
Published: January 2025

Severe sepsis is cognate with life threatening multi-organ dysfunction. There is a disturbance in endocrine functions with alterations in several hormonal pathways. It has frequently been linked with dysfunction in the hypothalamic pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA). Increased cortisol or cortisolemia is evident throughout the acute phase, along with changes in the hypothalamic pituitary thyroid (HPT) axis, growth hormone-IGF-1 axis, insulin-glucose axis, leptin, catecholamines, renin angiotensin aldosterone axis, ghrelin, glucagon, hypothalamic pituitary gonadal (HGA) axis, and fibroblast growth factor-21. These changes and metabolic alterations constitute the overall response to infection in sepsis. Further research is essential to look into the hormonal changes that occur during sepsis, not only to understand their potential relevance in therapy but also because they may serve as prognostic indicators.
ClearFinder: a Python GUI for annotating cells in cleared mouse brain
Authors: Pastore Stefan , Hillenbrand Philipp , Molnar Nils , Kovlyagina Irina , Chongtham Monika Chanu , Sys Stanislav , Lutz Beat , Tevosian Margarita , Gerber Susanne
Published: January 2025

Background

Tissue clearing combined with light-sheet microscopy is gaining popularity among neuroscientists interested in unbiased assessment of their samples in 3D volume. However, the analysis of such data remains a challenge. ClearMap and CellFinder are tools for analyzing neuronal activity maps in an intact volume of cleared mouse brains. However, these tools lack a user interface, restricting accessibility primarily to scientists proficient in advanced Python programming. The application presented here aims to bridge this gap and make data analysis accessible to a wider scientific community.

Results

We developed an easy-to-adopt graphical user interface for cell quantification and group analysis of whole cleared adult mouse brains. Fundamental statistical analysis, such as PCA and box plots, and additional visualization features allow for quick data evaluation and quality checks. Furthermore, we present a use case of ClearFinder GUI for cross-analyzing the same samples with two cell counting tools, highlighting the discrepancies in cell detection efficiency between them.

Conclusions

Our easily accessible tool allows more researchers to implement the methodology, troubleshoot arising issues, and develop quality checks, benchmarking, and standardized analysis pipelines for cell detection and region annotation in whole volumes of cleared brains.
Population genomics of a natural Cannabis sativa L. collection from Iran identifies novel genetic loci for flowering time, morphology, sex and chemotyping
Authors: Mostafaei Dehnavi Mahboubeh , Damerum Annabelle , Taheri Sadegh , Ebadi Ali , Panahi Shadab , Hodgin George , Brandley Brian , Salami Seyed Alireza , Taylor Gail
Published: January 2025

Background

Future breeding and selection of Cannabis sativa L. for both drug production and industrial purposes require a source of germplasm with wide genetic variation, such as that found in wild relatives and progenitors of highly cultivated plants. Limited directional selection and breeding have occurred in this crop, especially informed by molecular markers.

Results

This study investigated the population genomics of a natural cannabis collection comprising male and female individuals from various climatic zones in Iran. Using Genotyping-By-Sequencing (GBS), we sequenced 228 individuals from 35 populations. The data obtained enabled an association analysis, linking genotypes with key phenotypes such as inflorescence characteristics, flowering time, plant morphology, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content, and sex. We detected approximately 23,266 significant high-quality Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), establishing associations between markers and traits. The population structure analysis revealed that Iranian cannabis plants fall into five distinct groups. Additionally, a comparison with global data suggested that the Iranian populations is distinctive and generally closer to marijuana than to hemp, with some populations showing a closer affinity to hemp. The GWAS identified novel genetic loci associated with sex, yield, and chemotype traits in cannabis, which had not been previously reported.

Conclusion

The study's findings highlight the distinct genetic structure of Iranian Cannabis populations. The identification of novel genetic loci associated with important traits suggests potential targets for future breeding programs. This research underscores the value of the Iranian cannabis germplasm as a resource for breeding and selection efforts aimed at improving Cannabis for various uses.
Health-related quality of life in hypertensive patients with chronic kidney disease in low and middle-income countries
Authors: Wulandari Wening , Zakiyah Neily , Rahayu Cherry , Puspitasari Irma M. , Suwantika Auliya A.
Published: January 2025

Hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are interconnected conditions that can significantly affect a person’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL). In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), this disease burden is heightened due to limited health resources and socio-economic challenges. Based on the available literature, this narrative review aims to discuss the HRQoL of hypertensive patients with CKD in LMICs by identifying the current challenges and providing insights into the strategic potential to improve patient’s quality of life. This review reveals that the hypertensive population with CKD has a much lower HRQoL than the general population. Various factors, including physical limitations, comorbidities, psychological barriers, logistical challenges, and social support, can influence HRQoL. Limited access to health care, inadequate resources, and a lack of skilled personnel in LMICs further exacerbate these individual challenges. The economic impact of decreased work productivity and increased health costs adds to the disease burden. Improved health access, effective self-management strategies, and social support are needed to improve HRQoL in hypertensive patients with CKD.
Medication adherence and blood pressure control in treated hypertensive patients: first follow-up findings from the PREDIcT-HTN study in Northern Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Ahmed , Ahsan Gias Uddin , Hossain Mohammad Zakir , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Sutradhar Probal , Alam Sarowar-E. , Sultana Zeeba Zahra , Hijazi Heba , Rahman Syed Azizur , Alameddine Mohamad
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Adherence to antihypertensive medication is crucial to control blood pressure (BP) and hypertension management outcomes. In Bangladesh, as in many other countries, poor adherence to medication represents a challenge to effective hypertension management. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and relationship between medication adherence and BP management among hypertensive patients in Bangladesh.

Methods

The PREDIcT-HTN study in Northern Bangladesh aims to evaluate major adverse clinical events in treated hypertensive patients. The study involves 2643 hypertensive patients from a medical center, with data collected through baseline information and yearly follow-ups until 2025. The first follow-up visit was conducted between January and March 2021. Following the 2020 ISH-global hypertension guideline, patients were classified as having controlled BP, grade-I, or grade-II uncontrolled BP. Patients were divided into three groups (good, moderate, and poor) based on their 9-item Hill-Bone medication adherence scale. A multinomial regression analysis was conducted to identify the association between medication adherence and BP control after adjusting potential confounders.

Results

Analysis of 2276 hypertensive patients (mean age 51.31 ± 11.58 years) revealed that 36.1% had grade-I and 24.2% had grade-II uncontrolled hypertension. Most patients (78%) displayed moderate adherence, and 15% showed poor medication adherence. Certain patient subgroups had higher rates of poor adherence: females (17.1%) compared to males (12.2%), rural residents (22.4%) compared to city-dwellers (12.2%), and newly diagnosed patients (17.2%) compared to those diagnosed 2–5 years earlier (12.6%). Multivariable analysis found a strong association between medication adherence and BP control. Compared to poor adherence, moderate adherence (relative risk ratio (RRR):0.50, 95%CI:0.36–0.68) and good adherence (RRR:0.56, 95%CI:0.35–0.91) were associated with better control. Increasing age, rural living, and uncontrolled hypertension were also linked. Comorbidities worsened BP control, and managing multiple medications contributed to poor adherence and grade-II hypertension in patients.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in Bangladesh underscores the need for improved treatment strategies. Addressing medication adherence is essential for better BP control, with particular attention needed for women, rural residents, and newly diagnosed individuals. A comprehensive approach is warranted, including strategies to enhance adherence, early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and simplified medication regimens. These efforts align with the UN's 2030 SDGs, emphasizing targeted interventions for equitable healthcare access and outcomes.
Machine learning algorithms for predicting PTSD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vali Masoumeh , Nezhad Hossein Motahari , Kovacs Levente , Gandomi Amir H
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to compare and evaluate the prediction accuracy and risk of bias (ROB) of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) predictive models. We conducted a systematic review and random-effect meta-analysis summarizing predictive model development and validation studies using machine learning in diverse samples to predict PTSD. Model performances were pooled using the area under the curve (AUC) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity in each meta-analysis was measured using I2. The risk of bias in each study was appraised using the PROBAST tool. 48% of the 23 included studies had a high ROB, and the remaining had unclear. Tree-based models were the primarily used algorithms and showed promising results in predicting PTSD outcomes for various groups, as indicated by their pooled AUCs: military incidents (0.745), sexual or physical trauma (0.861), natural disasters (0.771), medical trauma (0.808), firefighters (0.96), and alcohol-related stress (0.935). However, the applicability of these findings is limited due to several factors, such as significant variability among the studies, high and unclear risks of bias, and a shortage of models that maintain accuracy when tested in new settings. Researchers should follow the reporting standards for AI/ML and adhere to the PROBAST guidelines. It is also essential to conduct external validations of these models to ensure they are practical and relevant in real-world settings.
Mapping provider and consumer voices using the AACTT framework: a focus group study of advance care planning
Authors: Guccione Lisa , Best Stephanie , Fullerton Sonia , Aranda Sanchia , Francis Jill J.
Published: January 2025

Background

The provision of healthcare is complex. When evidence-practice gaps are identified, interventions to improve practice across multi-level systems are required. These interventions often consist of multiple interacting components and behaviours. To effectively address these complexities, it is crucial to first identify the specific roles and actions required at each stage of the intervention. This approach enables a thorough examination of what is working well and what needs to be optimised. The action, actor, context, target, time (AACTT) framework provides a consistent approach to identifying key elements such as ‘who’ (actor) does ‘what’ (action), ‘where’ (context), ‘to or with whom’ (target) and ‘when’ (time). To our knowledge the AACTT has not yet been applied: 1) to specify complex interventions across patient journeys; and 2) to investigate consumer views, despite the importance of patient-centred care.

Aim

Using advance care planning (ACP) as an exemplar complex healthcare process, we describe a method for using the AACTT framework to 1) map a complex model of care across a patient journey 2) capture the consumer perspective; and 3) operationalise these perspectives by comparing across groups and identifying alignments or misalignments.

Methods

Two groups were recruited (healthcare professionals and consumers). Informed by the AACTT framework, four focus groups discussed the process of ACP across existing care pathways. Maps visually representing the perspectives and preferences of healthcare professionals and consumers were co-created iteratively. Qualitative data was deductively coded to the AACTT framework and inductively coded to identify themes within domains. Maps were circulated for critical feedback and refined.

Results

Healthcare professional (n-13) and consumer perspectives (n = 11) highlighted what is ‘currently occurring’ in practice, what is ‘not occurring’, and what ‘should be occurring’ to align practice with consumer preferences of care. Comparing participant perspectives identified that most misalignment occurred within the actor, context, and time domains. Misalignment was found predominantly in actions ‘occurring sometimes’, with no converging perspectives reported for the context and time domains.

Conclusion

This novel application of the AACTT framework systematically brings in the consumer voice in ways that may influence the delivery of care. This approach to specifying healthcare professional and consumer perspectives across a complex care pathway identifies barriers that are not found with traditional mapping methods or in current applications of the AACTT framework.
A realist evaluation to explain and understand the role of paramedics in primary care
Authors: Eaton Georgette , Wong Geoff , Tierney Stephanie , Williams Veronika , Mahtani Kamal R.
Published: January 2025

Background

In response to the unsustainable workload and workforce crises in primary care, paramedics (with their generalist clinical background acquired from ambulance service experience) are increasingly employed in primary care. However, the specific contribution paramedics can offer to the primary care workforce has not been distinctly outlined. We used realist approaches to understand the ways in which paramedics impact (or not) the primary care workforce.

Methods

A realist evaluation was undertaken, consisting of three independent but inter-related research studies:

In WP1, a mixed-methods cross-sectional survey of paramedics in primary care in the UK was conducted to comprehend the existing practices of paramedics within the NHS.

WP2 involved an analytic auto-netnography, where online conversations among paramedics in primary care were observed to understand paramedics’ perceptions of their role.

WP3 utilised focused observations and interviews to delve into the impact of paramedics on the primary care workforce. This comparative study collected data from sixty participants across fifteen sites in the UK, and twelve participants across three sites in a specific region in Canada, where Community Paramedicine is well established.

Results

The culmination of findings from each phase led to the development of a final programme theory, comprising of 50 context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs) encompassing three conceptual categories: Expectations associated with paramedics in primary care, the transition of paramedics into primary care roles, and the roles and responsibilities of paramedics in primary care.

Conclusions

Our realist evaluation used a mixed-method approach to present empirical evidence of the role of paramedics in primary care. It offers insights into factors relating to their deployment, employment, and how they fit within the wider primary care team. Based on the evidence generated, we produced a series of practice implementation recommendations and highlighted areas for further research.
Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein in CNS injury: molecular insights and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Lapin Dmitriy , Sharma Archna , Wang Ping
Published: January 2025

Central nervous system (CNS) injuries, such as ischemic stroke (IS), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), are a significant global burden. The complex pathophysiology of CNS injury is comprised of primary and secondary injury. Inflammatory secondary injury is incited by damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) which signal a variety of resident CNS cells and infiltrating immune cells. Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (eCIRP) is a DAMP which acts through multiple immune and non-immune cells to promote inflammation. Despite the well-established role of eCIRP in systemic and sterile inflammation, its role in CNS injury is less elucidated. Recent literature suggests that eCIRP is a pleiotropic inflammatory mediator in CNS injury. eCIRP is also being evaluated as a clinical biomarker to indicate prognosis in CNS injuries. This review provides a broad overview of CNS injury, with a focus on immune-mediated secondary injury and neuroinflammation. We then review what is known about eCIRP in CNS injury, and its known mechanisms in both CNS and non-CNS cells, identifying opportunities for further study. We also explore eCIRP’s potential as a prognostic marker of CNS injury severity and outcome. Next, we provide an overview of eCIRP-targeting therapeutics and suggest strategies to develop these agents to ameliorate CNS injury. Finally, we emphasize exploring novel molecular mechanisms, aside from neuroinflammation, by which eCIRP acts as a critical mediator with significant potential as a therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker in CNS injury.
MaveDB 2024: a curated community database with over seven million variant effects from multiplexed functional assays
Authors: Rubin Alan F. , Stone Jeremy , Bianchi Aisha Haley , Capodanno Benjamin J. , Da Estelle Y. , Dias Mafalda , Esposito Daniel , Frazer Jonathan , Fu Yunfan , Grindstaff Sally B. , Harrington Matthew R. , Li Iris , McEwen Abbye E. , Min Joseph K. , Moore Nick , Moscatelli Olivia G. , Ong Jesslyn , Polunina Polina V. , Rollins Joshua E. , Rollins Nathan J. , Snyder Ashley E. , Tam Amy , Wakefield Matthew J. , Ye Shenyi Sunny , Starita Lea M. , Bryant Vanessa L. , Marks Debora S. , Fowler Douglas M.
Published: January 2025

Multiplexed assays of variant effect (MAVEs) are a critical tool for researchers and clinicians to understand genetic variants. Here we describe the 2024 update to MaveDB (https://www.mavedb.org/) with four key improvements to the MAVE community’s database of record: more available data including over 7 million variant effect measurements, an improved data model supporting assays such as saturation genome editing, new built-in exploration and visualization tools, and powerful APIs for data federation and streamlined submission and access. Together these changes support MaveDB’s role as a hub for the analysis and dissemination of MAVEs now and into the future.
Developing generic clinical trial animated explainer videos in the UK: results of a survey and case study
Authors: Calvert Clare , Barber Vicki S. , Appelbe Duncan , Sprange Kirsty , Nollett Claire , Lugg-Widger Fiona , Tanner Samantha , Richards Duncan B.
Published: January 2025

Background

Animated short videos used to explain a concept or project are often called animated explainer videos (AEVs). AEVs can supplement or provide an alternative to participant information sheets as a means of giving information about clinical research to potential participants. Current use of AEVs tends to focus on the specifics of a particular trial, yet there are many common aspects of clinical research regardless of the interventions being investigated that can be poorly covered in current trial materials. The EXPLAIN initiative aimed to determine the top generic clinical trial topics considered most important by different UK trial stakeholders. The top three topics were then turned into AEVs and have been made freely available for use.

Method

A list of generic clinical trial topics which often need explaining to potential trial participants when they are approached to take part in research was developed. Using a two-round Delphi survey of stakeholder groups (trial participants, patients, members of the public, site staff and clinical trials unit staff), the list of topics was expanded and prioritised to identify the topics most in need of clear explanation. The top three topics formed the basis of three AEVs, co-developed with patient and public partners.

Results

Two hundred twenty-eight responses were received to the first round of the Delphi survey, and 167 of these respondents also completed the second round of the survey. The three topics prioritised for creation of animated explainer videos were as follows: (1) What is consent? (2) Who decides what treatment I get/What is randomisation? (3) Is it safe to take part in a trial/How do you know a trial is safe? Following virtual meetings with patient and public partners recruited from the Delphi respondents, a script for each AEV was co-produced before being developed into an AEV by a company specialising in animated video production.

Conclusion

There are a wide range of generic concepts in which the use of animated explainer videos could be useful to improve participant understanding of clinical research. Via consensus survey across multiple stakeholders, we have determined a hierarchy of the importance of explaining these concepts. We envisage that the three AEVs created from this project will form the basis of a readily accessible library of animations to be utilised by trialists.
Comparative analysis of deep learning and radiomic signatures for overall survival prediction in recurrent high-grade glioma treated with immunotherapy
Authors: Wan Qi , Lindsay Clifford , Zhang Chenxi , Kim Jisoo , Chen Xin , Li Jing , Huang Raymond Y. , Reardon David A. , Young Geoffrey S. , Qin Lei
Published: January 2025

Background

Radiomic analysis of quantitative features extracted from segmented medical images can be used for predictive modeling of prognosis in brain tumor patients. Manual segmentation of the tumor components is time-consuming and poses significant reproducibility issues. We compare the prediction of overall survival (OS) in recurrent high-grade glioma(HGG) patients undergoing immunotherapy, using deep learning (DL) classification networks along with radiomic signatures derived from manual and convolutional neural networks (CNN) automated segmentation.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively retrieved 154 cases of recurrent HGG from multiple centers. Tumor segmentation was performed by expert radiologists and a convolutional neural network (CNN). From the segmented tumors, 2553 radiomic features were extracted for each case. A robust feature subset was selected using intraclass correlation coefficient analysis between manual and automated segmentations. The data was divided into a 9:1 ratio and validated through ten-fold cross-validation and tested on a rotating test set. Features selection was done by the Kruskal–Wallis test. The Radiomics-based OS predictions, generated using Support Vector Machine (SVM), were compared between the two segmentation approaches and against OS prediction by the CNN model adapted for classification. Model efficacy was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

The clinical model AUC for OS prediction was 0.640 ± 0.013 (mean ± 95% confidence interval) in the training set and 0.610 ± 0.131 in the test set. The radiomics prediction of OS based on manual segmentation outperformed automatic segmentation (AUC of 0.662 ± 0.122 vs. 0.471 ± 0.086, respectively) in the test set. Robust features improved the performance of manual segmentation to AUC of 0.700 ± 0.102, of automated segmentation to 0.554 ± 0.085. The CNN prognosis model demonstrated promising results, with an average AUC of 0.755 ± 0.071 for training sets and 0.700 ± 0.101 for the test set.

Conclusion

Manual segmentation-derived radiomic features outperformed automated segmentation-derived features for predicting OS in recurrent high-grade glioma patients undergoing immunotherapy. The end-to-end CNN prognosis model performed similarly to radiomics modeling using manual-segmentation-derived features without the need for segmentation. The potential time-saving must be weighed against the lower interpretability of end-to-end black box modeling.
Development of a control support system for smart homes using the analysis of user interests based on mixed reality
Authors: Sone Yuka , Matsumoto Chifuyu , Woo Jinseok , Ohyama Yasuhiro
Published: January 2025

In recent years, IoT technologies have made our daily lives more convenient and comfortable. In particular, these technologies are being actively utilized in our living environments through the development of various smart home appliances. As the pace of Digital Transformation (DX) quickens and digital platforms become integrated into diverse residential settings, the notion of the home we inhabit is taking on greater significance beyond merely a place for rest. Therefore, this paper explains the development of user-friendly interfaces for smart home systems used in our living rooms. An appropriate service can be provided accordingly if the user’s intent is specifically understood. Therefore, this paper explores the relationship between the user’s gaze and the control targets of the smart home using Mixed Reality (MR) devices. In this study, we introduce a novel smart home control system from a range of options. Our proposed system enables user analysis and remote control through the utilization of an MR device capable of tracking a user’s gaze. In addition, we investigate the perception of user interfaces and analyze the survey results conducted after using the interface system, discussing the validity of the proposed system.
Formulation for foliar and soil application of entomopathogenic nematodes for controlling the onion thrips Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Metwally Hala M. S. , Saleh Mahmoud M. E. , Abonaem Mokhtar
Published: January 2025

Background

Onion thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) are a main threat to onion (Allium cepa L.) production worldwide. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are recommended as environmentally acceptable alternatives to chemical management for a wide range of economic insect pests. EPNs are widely used and provide good control over insect pests that live in the soil. Adjuvant-based formulation of EPN solutions has enhanced longevity and potency on foliage. In this study, tests were performed to compare two EPN application techniques for controlling the onion thrips in the open field. The first technique was the traditional spray technique, while the second one was the nematode-infected insect technique. Side experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of different adjuvants on the persistence of Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) sprayed on onion plants in a semi-field setting.

Results

In semi-field experiments, the results suggested that Tween 80 or Xanthan was suitable for increasing the persistence of S. feltiae on onion plants. In the spray technique, application of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Poinar), at 1000 infective juveniles (IJs)/ml, combined with 0.3% Tween 80, reduced the thrips population on onion leaves by 63% in three days. However, it remained effective for only three days post-application. Using the nematode-infected insect approach, a single application of 10 H. bacteriophora-infected Tenebrio molitor L. larvae per 1 m of the row (70 cm between rows) remained effective in the onion field for 5 weeks, following treatment, generating a pest population reduction of up to 77%, while the same rates of S. feltiae reduced the pest population by up to 59%.

Conclusions

In onion fields, the nematode-infected insect technique was proved to be more effective and long-persisted than the traditional spray technique for controlling T. tabaci in onion fields. Further research work is still needed to improve the ease of use of the recommended approach.