bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Juvenile trabecular ossifying fibroma of the inferior turbinate
Authors: Sagar Milind , Dharmavaram Rajasekhar Prahlad , Singh Chirom Amit , Khandkar Hena
Published: April 2024

Nasal obstruction is a commonly reported issue in the Otorhinolaryngology Outpatient Department. In this case, an early adolescent boy with a long-standing problem of right-sided nasal obstruction since childhood sought consultation. Diagnostic nasal endoscopy revealed a deviation of the nasal septum to the left, coupled with right inferior turbinate hypertrophy, all overlying healthy mucosa. A CT scan of the nose and paranasal sinuses further identified a bony hyperdense lesion with ground glass attenuation, confined to the right inferior turbinate. Subsequent biopsy confirmed juvenile trabecular ossifying fibroma (JTOF). The patient underwent endoscopic right medial maxillectomy, and the final histology affirmed the diagnosis of JTOF.
Hypereosinophilic syndrome: a rare cause of ST-elevation myocardial infarction and thrombus formation on the aortic valve
Authors: Jørgensen Mathias Dyreborg , Schneider Ida Ransby , Thomsen Gunhild Nynke , Dahl Jordi Sanchez
Published: April 2024

We present a case of a man in his 30s presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and eosinophilia. The patient underwent thrombus aspiration and initially echocardiographic evaluation was normal. The patient was discharged after 2 days, but was hospitalised again after 6 days. Echocardiographic evaluation now revealed a thrombus formation on the aortic valve. Laboratory data revealed increasing eosinophilia, and treatment with high-dosage corticosteroids and hydroxyurea was initiated as eosinophilic disease with organ manifestations could not be precluded. Eosinophils normalised and the patient was discharged again. The combination of hypereosinophilia and absence of infection, rheumatological disorders and malignancy, led to reactive or idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome being the most plausible diagnoses. The patient was closely monitored in the cardiology and haematology outpatient clinics. Echocardiographic evaluation, performed 6 weeks after the patient was discharged, showed significant regression in the size of the thrombus mass.
Serotonin syndrome presenting as acute dizziness with supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Prakash Sanjay , Gupta Ravisha , Raval Maitree M , Tibrewal Charu
Published: April 2024

Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a drug-induced clinical syndrome characterised by a combination of cognitive, neuromuscular and autonomic dysfunctions. The symptoms may include mild non-specific symptoms such as tremors and diarrhoea to coma and sudden death. Herein, we describe a case of SS in which acute dizziness was associated with supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension. A man in his mid-30s had a 10-month history of anxiety, depression and chronic tension-type headache. He had been on amitriptyline (25 mg daily) and sertraline (50 mg daily). Increment of sertraline (75 mg daily) and amitriptyline (75 mg daily) and the addition of tramadol led to the development of acute severe dizziness. Physical examinations demonstrate supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension. He also met the diagnostic criteria of SS. The administration of cyproheptadine provided a complete response to dizziness, supine hypertension, orthostatic hypotension and other clinical features of SS.
The impact of delayed diagnosis and treatment due to COVID-19 on Australian thyroid cancer patients: a qualitative interview study
Authors: D'souza Bianka , Glover Anthony , Bavor Claire , Brown Benjamin , Dodd Rachael H , Lee James C , Millar Jeremy , Miller Julie A , Zalcberg John R , Serpell Jonathan , Ioannou Liane J , Nickel Brooke
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The study aims to investigate the perceptions of patients with thyroid cancer on the potential impact of diagnosis and treatment delays during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

This study involved qualitative semi-structured telephone interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, analysed using the thematic framework analysis method and reported using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Setting

Participants in the study were treated and/or managed at hospital sites across New South Wales and Victoria, Australia.

Participants

17 patients with thyroid cancer were interviewed and included in the analysis (14 females and 3 males).

Results

The delays experienced by patients ranged from <3 months to >12 months. The patients reported about delays to diagnostic tests, delays to surgery and radioactive iodine treatment, perceived disease progression and, for some, the financial burden of choosing to go through private treatment to minimise the delay. Most patients also reported not wanting to experience delays any longer than they did, due to unease and anxiety.

Conclusions

This study highlights an increased psychological burden in patients with thyroid cancer who experienced delayed diagnosis and/or treatment during COVID-19. The impacts experienced by patients during this time may be similar in the case of other unexpected delays and highlight the need for regular clinical review during delays to diagnosis or treatment.
Operational complexities in international clinical trials: a systematic review of challenges and proposed solutions
Authors: Gumber Leher , Agbeleye Opeyemi , Inskip Alex , Fairbairn Ross , Still Madeleine , Ouma Luke , Lozano-Kuehne Jingky , Bardgett Michelle , Isaacs John D , Wason James MS , Craig Dawn , Pratt Arthur G
Published: April 2024

Objective

International trials can be challenging to operationalise due to incompatibilities between country-specific policies and infrastructures. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the operational complexities of conducting international trials and identify potential solutions for overcoming them.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Medline, Embase and Health Management Information Consortium were searched from 2006 to 30 January 2023.

Eligibility criteria

All studies reporting operational challenges (eg, site selection, trial management, intervention management, data management) of conducting international trials were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

Search results were independently screened by at least two reviewers and data were extracted into a proforma.

Results

38 studies (35 RCTs, 2 reports and 1 qualitative study) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The median sample size was 1202 (IQR 332–4056) and median number of sites was 40 (IQR 13–78). 88.6% of studies had an academic sponsor and 80% were funded through government sources. Operational complexities were particularly reported during trial set-up due to lack of harmonisation in regulatory approvals and in relation to sponsorship structure, with associated budgetary impacts. Additional challenges included site selection, staff training, lengthy contract negotiations, site monitoring, communication, trial oversight, recruitment, data management, drug procurement and distribution, pharmacy involvement and biospecimen processing and transport.

Conclusions

International collaborative trials are valuable in cases where recruitment may be difficult, diversifying participation and applicability. However, multiple operational and regulatory challenges are encountered when implementing a trial in multiple countries. Careful planning and communication between trials units and investigators, with an emphasis on establishing adequately resourced cross-border sponsorship structures and regulatory approvals, may help to overcome these barriers and realise the benefits of the approach.

Open science framework registration number

osf-registrations-yvtjb-v1.
Real-world data evaluating Guy’s rapid diagnostic clinic as an alternate pathway for patients with FIT levels below 10
Authors: Monroy-Iglesias Maria Jose , Martin Sabine , Cargaleiro Carlos , Jones Geraint , Steward Lindsay , Murtagh Colette , Bruno Flaminia , Millwaters Juliet , Schizas Alexis , Watson Harriet , Haire Anna , Haire Kate , Moss Charlotte Louise , Russell Beth , Srirajaskanthan Raj , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Dolly Saoirse
Published: April 2024

Objective

To analyse the effectiveness of rapid diagnostic clinics (RDCs) as an alternative pathway for patients with concerning symptoms and a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) result <10. Our primary endpoint was rate of colorectal cancer (CRC) detection. Second endpoints were rates of other cancers and gastrointestinal (GI) serious benign conditions. Finally, we analysed the specific pathway followed by FIT <10 patients with cancer at Guy’s and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust (GSTT) RDC.

Design

A retrospective and prospective cohort study.

Setting

GSTT RDC, one of England’s largest single-centre RDCs. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of FIT <10 patients were analysed descriptively.

Participants

Patients with an FIT result <10, seen at GSTT RDC between 1 January 2020 and 5 May 2023.

Results

A total of 1299 patients with an FIT<10 were seen at GSTT RDC between January 2020 and May 2023. Of these, 66% (n=861) reported weight loss, 62% (n=805) pain, 37% (n=481) fatigue, 34% (n=444) were anaemic and 23% (n=301) had nausea and vomiting. Among these patients, 7% (n=88) received a cancer diagnosis, 36% (n=462) were identified as having a serious benign condition. Within the patients with cancer, 9% (n=8) were diagnosed with CRC. Among patients with serious benign conditions, 7% (n=31) were referred to colorectal, hepatopancreatobiliary, or upper GI specialists.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of RDCs as an alternate pathway for FIT <10 patients with ongoing clinical concerns. These results contribute to enhancing patient care and optimising resource allocation within the healthcare system.
Cost-effectiveness of a radio intervention to stimulate early childhood development: protocol for an economic evaluation of the SUNRISE trial in Burkina Faso
Authors: Palmer Tom , Clare Abbie , Fearon Pasco , Head Roy , Hill Zelee , Kagone Bassirou , Kirkwood Betty , Manu Alexander , Skordis Jolene
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Approximately 250 million children under 5 years of age are at risk of poor development in low-income and middle-income countries. However, existing early childhood development (ECD) interventions can be expensive, labour intensive and challenging to deliver at scale. Mass media may offer an alternative approach to ECD intervention. This protocol describes the planned economic evaluation of a cluster-randomised controlled trial of a radio campaign promoting responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning during the first 3 years of life in rural Burkina Faso (SUNRISEtrial).

Methods and analysis

The economic evaluation of theSUNRISEtrial will be conducted as a within-trial analysis from the provider’s perspective. Incremental costs and health outcomes of the radio campaign will be compared with standard broadcasting (ie, ‘do nothing’ comparator). All costs associated with creating and broadcasting the radio campaign during intervention start-up and implementation will be captured. The cost per child under 3 years old reached by the intervention will be calculated. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios will be calculated for the trial’s primary outcome (ie, incremental cost per SD of cognitive gain). A cost-consequence analysis will also be presented, whereby all relevant costs and outcomes are tabulated. Finally, an analysis will be conducted to assess the equity impact of the intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

TheSUNRISEtrial has ethical approval from the ethics committees of the Ministry of Health, Burkina Faso, University College London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. The results of the economic evaluation will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at a relevant international conference.

Trial registration number

TheSUNRISEtrial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov on 19 April 2019 (identifier:NCT05335395).
Protocol for an independent patient data meta-analysis of prophylactic mesh placement for incisional hernia prevention after abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery: a collaborative European Hernia Society project (I-PREVENT-AAA)
Authors: van den Berg Rudolf , den Hartog Floris P J , Bali Christina , Matsagkas Miltiadis , Bevis Paul M , Earnshaw Jonothan J , Debus Eike S , Honig Susanne , Berrevoet Frederik , Detry Olivier , Stabilini Cesare , Muysoms Filip , Tanis Pieter J
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Incisional hernia (IH) is a prevalent and potentially dangerous complication of abdominal surgery, especially in high-risk groups. Mesh reinforcement of the abdominal wall has been studied as a potential intervention to prevent IHs. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that prophylactic mesh reinforcement after abdominal surgery, in general, is effective and safe. In patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), prophylactic mesh reinforcement after open repair has not yet been recommended in official guidelines, because of relatively small sample sizes in individual trials. Furthermore, the identification of subgroups that benefit most from prophylactic mesh placement requires larger patient numbers. Our primary aim is to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of the use of a prophylactic mesh after open AAA surgery to prevent IH by performing an individual patient data meta-analysis (IPDMA). Secondary aims include the evaluation of postoperative complications, pain and quality of life, and the identification of potential subgroups that benefit most from prophylactic mesh reinforcement.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic review to identify RCTs that study prophylactic mesh placement after open AAA surgery. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE Ovid, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection and Google Scholar will be searched from the date of inception onwards. RCTs must directly compare primary sutured closure with mesh closure in adult patients who undergo open AAA surgery. Lead authors of eligible studies will be asked to share individual participant data (IPD). The risk of bias (ROB) for each included study will be assessed using the Cochrane ROB tool. An IPDMA will be performed to evaluate the efficacy, with the IH rate as the primary outcome. Any signs of heterogeneity will be evaluated by Forest plots. Time-to-event analyses are performed using Cox regression analysis to evaluate risk factors.

Ethics and dissemination

No new data will be collected in this study. We will adhere to institutional, national and international regulations regarding the secure and confidential sharing of IPD, addressing ethics as indicated. We will disseminate findings via international conferences, open-source publications in peer-reviewed journals and summaries posted online.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022347881.
How do people living with obesity who use obesity services perceive healthcare professionals’ representation of the disease on social media? An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Maher Sean , McHugh Joseph , Crotty Michael , Birney Susie , O’Connell Jean , Finucane Francis , Spooner Muirne
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to explore how people living with obesity who use obesity services perceive healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) online representation of the disease on social media. By exploring their perspective, we aimed to develop a framework to inform good practice around social media use for HCPs.

Design

This was a qualitative study using a phenomenological framework. Following in-depth semi-structured interviews, analysis was undertaken to identify superordinate themes relating to how HCPs portray living with obesity online.

Setting

Patient advocacy organisation (The Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity) and three clinical sites offering obesity treatment in Ireland.

Participants

15 adult participants comprising of 12 women and 3 men who use social media and are living with obesity and who use obesity services.

Results

Three key themes of how people living with obesity who use obesity services perceive HCP’s online representation of the disease. (1) Negative experiences of HCPs—participants describe encountering weight stigma and bias on social media from HCPs that they characterised as simplistic and outdated conceptualisations. These engender shame, fear and anger. (2) Positive experience of HCPs—participants report social media allows HCPs to educate and inform public perception of obesity. Positive online experiences lead to feelings of inclusion, understanding and encouragement. (3) Expectations of HCPs—qualifications, professional titles and academic association affected the perceived trustworthiness of information and its impact on readers. Participants feel there is a duty of care for HCPs in obesity medicine to advocate and be active online to provide accurate medical information.

Conclusion

HCP’s use of social media has a powerful impact on people with obesity who use healthcare and obesity services. Social media is a key tool in obesity awareness and education. We propose the ‘3E’ framework—Empower, Evidence-Based and Educate and be educated to guide HCPs’ social media use.
Predictive performance of machine learning compared to statistical methods in time-to-event analysis of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Suliman Abubaker , Masud Mohammad , Serhani Mohamed Adel , Abdullahi Aminu S. , Oulhaj Abderrahim
Published: April 2024

Background

Globally, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death, warranting effective management and prevention measures. Risk prediction tools are indispensable for directing primary and secondary prevention strategies for CVD and are critical for estimating CVD risk. Machine learning (ML) methodologies have experienced significant advancements across numerous practical domains in recent years. Several ML and statistical models predicting CVD time-to-event outcomes have been developed. However, it is not known as to which of the two model types—ML and statistical models—have higher discrimination and calibration in this regard. Hence, this planned work aims to systematically review studies that compare ML with statistical methods in terms of their predictive abilities in the case of time-to-event data with censoring.

Methods

Original research articles published as prognostic prediction studies, which involved the development and/or validation of a prognostic model, within a peer-reviewed journal, using cohort or experimental design with at least a 12-month follow-up period will be systematically reviewed. The review process will adhere to the Critical Appraisal and Data Extraction for Systematic Reviews of Prediction Modelling Studies checklist.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this review, as it will exclusively use data from published studies. The findings of this study will be published in an open-access journal and disseminated at scientific conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023484178.
Using an ecological model of health behaviour to identify factors associated with smoking behaviour among Buddhist novices in Thailand: a cross-sectional digital survey
Authors: Benjakul Sarunya , Nakju Saroj , Thitavisiddho (Wongsai) Wisit , Junjula Thawatchai
Published: April 2024

Objective

Buddhist novices reside in Buddhist temples, which are legally designated as smoke-free areas. Nevertheless, similar to other men in their age group, they are susceptible to various risk factors that lead to smoking. This digital survey aimed to examine tobacco smoking and its associated factors among Buddhist novices in Thailand.

Design

A cross-sectional digital survey.

Setting

88 temple-based schools in Thailand.

Participants

A stratified two-stage cluster sampling method was employed to select 5371 novices. Data were collected between June and August 2022 using self-administered electronic questionnaires.

Measure

Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to identify the associated factors.

Results

Overall, 32.8% of the respondents reported they had tried smoking, and the average age of initiation was 12.4 years. In the past 30 days, 25.7% had smoked any tobacco product. Multiple factors following the ecological model of health behaviour were found to be statistically associated with smoking by 37.3%. Among these were intrapersonal-level factors, such as age, living in the southern region and attempted smoking. Two were interpersonal-level factors: the smoking behaviour of close relatives, specifically parents, and their respected monks. Two were institutional-level factors: perceiving that temple-based schools are smoke-free areas and exposure to secondhand smoke. Three factors at the community and policy levels were noticed tobacco advertising at the point of sale, social media and tobacco promotion.

Conclusion

The findings of this study support the development of comprehensive intervention programmes that address the multiple factors to prevent Buddhist novices from smoking.
Identifying carers in general practice (STATUS QUO): a multicentre, cross-sectional study in England
Authors: Lawton Sarah , Mallen Christian , Hussain Zarish , Bajpai Ram , Muller Sara , Holmstrom Cath , Jinks Clare , Helliwell Toby
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To determine General Practice (GP) recording of carer status and the number of patients self-identifying as carers, while self-completing an automated check-in screen prior to a GP consultation.

Design

A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Setting

11 GPs in the West Midlands, England. Recruitment commenced in September 2019 and concluded in January 2020.

Participants

All patients aged 10 years and over, self-completing an automated check-in screen, were invited to participate during a 3-week recruitment period.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The current coding of carers at participating GPs and the number of patients identifying themselves as a carer were primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included the number of responses attained from automated check-in screens as a research data collection tool and whether carers felt supported in their carer role.

Results

80.3% (n=9301) of patients self-completing an automated check-in screen participated in QUantifying the identification Of carers in general practice (STATUS QUO Study) (62.6% (n=5822) female, mean age 52.9 years (10–98 years, SD=20.3)). Prior to recruitment, the clinical code used to denote a carer was identified in 2.7% (n=2739) of medical records across the participating GPs.

10.1% (n=936) of participants identified themselves as a carer. They reported feeling supported with their own health and social care needs: always 19.3% (n=150), a lot of the time 13.2% (n=102), some of the time 40.8% (n=317) and never 26.7% (n=207).

Conclusions

Many more participants self-identified as a carer than were recorded on participating GP lists. Improvements in the recording of the population’s caring status need to be actioned, to ensure that supportive implementation strategies for carers are effectively received. Using automated check-in facilities for research continues to provide high participation rates.
The N-LVA Study: effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) for patients with cancer who suffer from chronic peripheral lymphoedema – study protocol of a multicentre, randomised sham-controlled trial
Authors: Kleeven Alieske , Jonis Yasmine M J , Tielemans Hanneke , van Kuijk Sander , Kimman Merel , van der Hulst René , Vasilic Dalibor , Hummelink Stefan , Qiu Shan Shan
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Cancer-related lymphoedema is one of the most debilitating side-effects of cancer treatment with an overall incidence of 15.5%. Patients may suffer from a variety of symptoms, possibly resulting in a diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL). A microsurgical technique known as lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) might be a promising treatment option. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether LVA is effective and cost-effective compared with sham surgery in improving the HRQoL.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre, double-blind, randomised sham-controlled trial conducted in three university hospitals in the Netherlands. The study population comprises 110 patients over the age of 18 years with unilateral, peripheral cancer-related lymphoedema, including 70 patients with upper limb lymphoedema and 40 patients with lower limb lymphoedema. A total of 55 patients will undergo the LVA operation, while the remaining 55 will undergo sham surgery. The follow-up will be at least 24 months. Patients are encouraged to complete the follow-up by explaining the importance of the study. Furthermore, patients may benefit from regular monitoring moments for their lymphoedema. The primary outcome is the HRQoL. The secondary outcomes are the limb circumference, excess limb volume, changes in conservative therapy, postoperative complications, patency of the LVA and incremental cost-effectiveness.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of Maastricht University Medical Center on 20 September 2023 (NL84169.068.23). The results will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed medical journals.

Trial registration number

NCT06082349.
Prevalence and factors associated with uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis amongst women vulnerable to HIV who received HIV antibodies in Antibody Mediated Prevention HVTN703/HPTN081 trial in Harare, Zimbabwe: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Siziba Bekezela , Mgodi Nyaradzo Mavis , Ngara Bernard , Chawana Tariro Dianah , Chitukuta Miria , Mukwekwerere Pamela Grace , Bhondai-Mhuri Muchaneta , Chirenje Zvavahera Mike , Mhlanga Felix Godwin Sivukile
Published: April 2024

Introduction

There is limited evidence on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake post-trial participation for women vulnerable to HIV. This study investigates the prevalence and factors associated with PrEP uptake post-participation in an HIV prevention trial.

Methods

Former Antibody Mediated Prevention (AMP) study participants were invited to the three AMP clinical research sites in Zimbabwe after at least a year of exiting the study. The AMP study evaluated the safety and efficacy of Vaccine Research Center 01 broadly neutralising monoclonal antibody in reducing acquisition of HIV-1 infection in women in sub-Saharan Africa. Participants vulnerable to HIV were enrolled and risk reduction counselling was done throughout study participation. In a cross-sectional study, semi-structured interview administered questionnaires were completed. The primary outcome was uptake of PrEP after the study exit.

Results

From February 2022 to August 2022, out of 434 participants enrolled in the AMP study, a total of 298 were invited and 225 participated in the study; 28% made an attempt to access PrEP after study participation, 20% used PrEP at some point after study participation and 15% were on PrEP at the time of questionnaire administration. PrEP uptake was associated with new sexual partners after study participation and higher average number of sexual encounters in the previous month. Challenges faced in accessing PrEP included those related to the health facility, transport problems and stigma.

Conclusion

The majority (85%) of former AMP participants were not on PrEP at the time of questionnaire administration. We observed poor uptake of PrEP post-study exit among participants who had received risk reduction counselling through study duration. Measures to improve PrEP uptake should be considered on participants vulnerable to HIV when exiting HIV prevention trials.
Comparison of cognitive performance measures in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Plantinga Laura , Yazdany Jinoos , Bowling C Barrett , Dunlop-Thomas Charmayne , Hoge Courtney , Pearce Brad D , Lim S Sam , Katz Patricia
Published: April 2024

Objective

Cognitive impairment is a common complaint in SLE, but approaches to measuring cognitive performance objectively vary. Leveraging data collected in a population-based cohort of individuals with validated SLE, we compared performance and potential impairment across multiple measures of cognition.

Methods

During a single study visit (October 2019–May 2022), times to complete the Trail Making Test B (TMTB; N=423) were recorded; potential impairment was defined as an age-corrected and education-corrected T-score <35 (>1.5 SD longer than the normative time). A clock drawing assessment (CLOX; N=435) with two parts (free clock draw (CLOX1) and copy (CLOX2)) was also performed (score range: 0–15; higher scores=better performance); potential impairment was defined as CLOX1 <10 or CLOX2 <12. Fluid cognition (N=199; in-person visits only) was measured via the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Toolbox Fluid Cognition Battery and expressed as age-corrected standard scores; potential impairment was defined by a score <77.5 (>1.5 SD lower the normative score).

Results

Participants (mean age 46 years; 92% female; 82% black) had a median (IQR) TMTB time of 96 (76–130) s; median (IQR) CLOX1 and CLOX2 scores of 12 (10–13) and 14 (13–15); and a mean (SD) fluid cognition standard score of 87.2 (15.6). TMTB time and fluid cognition score (ρ=−0.53, p<0.001) were the most highly intercorrelated measures. Overall, 65%, 55% and 28% were potentially impaired by the TMTB test, CLOX task and NIH Toolbox Fluid Cognition Battery, respectively. While there was overlap in potential impairment between TMTB and CLOX, more than half (58%) had impairment by only one of these assessments. Few (2%) had impairment in fluid cognition only.

Conclusion

The TMTB, CLOX and NIH Fluid Cognition Battery each provided unique and potentially important information about cognitive performance in our SLE cohort. Future studies are needed to validate these measures in SLE and explore interventions that maintain or improve cognitive performance in this population.
Developing a hierarchical model for unraveling conspiracy theories
Authors: Ghasemizade Mohsen , Onaolapo Jeremiah
Published: April 2024

A conspiracy theory (CT) suggests covert groups or powerful individuals secretly manipulate events. Not knowing about existing conspiracy theories could make one more likely to believe them, so this work aims to compile a list of CTs shaped as a tree that is as comprehensive as possible. We began with a manually curated ‘tree’ of CTs from academic papers and Wikipedia. Next, we examined 1769 CT-related articles from four fact-checking websites, focusing on their core content, and used a technique called Keyphrase Extraction to label the documents. This process yielded 769 identified conspiracies, each assigned a label and a family name. The second goal of this project was to detect whether an article is a conspiracy theory, so we built a binary classifier with our labeled dataset. This model uses a transformer-based machine learning technique and is pre-trained on a large corpus called RoBERTa, resulting in an F1 score of 87%. This model helps to identify potential conspiracy theories in new articles. We used a combination of clustering (HDBSCAN) and a dimension reduction technique (UMAP) to assign a label from the tree to these new articles detected as conspiracy theories. We then labeled these groups accordingly to help us match them to the tree. These can lead us to detect new conspiracy theories and expand the tree using computational methods. We successfully generated a tree of conspiracy theories and built a pipeline to detect and categorize conspiracy theories within any text corpora. This pipeline gives us valuable insights through any databases formatted as text.
Real and damped modes for an interacting fermion–antifermion pair: exciton in monolayer medium
Authors: Guvendi Abdullah , Gurtas Dogan Semra , Yazıcı Uzeyir
Published: April 2024

In this manuscript, we investigate the interaction between a fermion–antifermion pair in $$(2+1)$$

(
2
+
1
)

-dimensions, governed by a Coulomb-type inter-particle potential. We explore analytical solutions for a fully covariant two-body Dirac equation derived from quantum electrodynamics, focusing on a spinless composite system. We present a non-perturbative second-order wave equation and derive a solution using the generators of the $$s\ell _{2}$$

s

ℓ
2

algebra. Subsequently, we determine the relativistic frequency modes of the system and extend our findings to electron–hole pairs in a monolayer medium in the vicinity of substrate. We analyze the impact of the effective dielectric constant ($$\varepsilon$$
ε
) of the surrounding medium on the real and damped modes of an exciton. Our results indicate that the ground state binding energy of the system can vary from the order of eV to a few meV, depending on changes in $$\varepsilon$$
ε
. Additionally, we observe that the decay time for the ground state of such an exciton is on the order of $$\sim 10^{-12}$$

∼

10

-
12

s. These findings suggest that the evolution of such a pair can be controlled by adjusting the effective dielectric constant of the surrounding medium.
Exploration on Wireless Network-Based Monitoring and Early Warning Algorithms for Power Grounding Faults
Authors: Hu Yundong , Chen Jintao
Published: April 2024

Electricity is an indispensable resource in daily life. While it brings great convenience to people, it also brings some safety hazards, especially in the event of power failure, which may cause significant harm. Therefore, monitoring and warning of power faults are very important. Traditional power grounding fault monitoring and warning systems have problems such as untimely monitoring, inaccurate warning, and high error rates in fault location. In order to solve the above problems, this paper uses wireless networks to construct a power grounding fault monitoring and early warning system. The wireless network collected fault data based on the complexity of power grounding fault data, and used threshold monitoring method to analyze the collected data. The wireless network was used to construct a prediction model to monitor grounding faults. Through experiments, it can be found that the accuracy of the wireless network-based power fault monitoring system for predicting grounding faults was over 92.57%, and the average warning accuracy of 20 experiments was 93.856%. This paper studied a wireless network-based algorithm for monitoring and warning of power grounding faults, which can effectively improve the monitoring and warning capabilities of power systems, and reduce the risk of power equipment faults and the probability of power accidents.
Chronic Nonspinal Osteomyelitis in Adults: Consensus Recommendations on Percutaneous Bone Biopsies from the Society of Academic Bone Radiologists
Authors: Debs Patrick , Boutin Robert D. , Smith Stacy E. , Babic Maja , Blankenbaker Donna , Chandra Venita , Murphey Mark , Thottacherry Elizabeth , Kreulen Christopher , Fayad Laura M.
Published: April 2024

Experts convened by the Society of Academic Bone Radiologists recommend percutaneous image-guided biopsies for managing chronic nonspinal osteomyelitis when MRI findings are positive and surgical or alternative microbiological culture sites are unavailable.
Potential of GPT-4 for Detecting Errors in Radiology Reports: Implications for Reporting Accuracy
Authors: Gertz Roman Johannes , Dratsch Thomas , Bunck Alexander Christian , Lennartz Simon , Iuga Andra-Iza , Hellmich Martin Gunnar , Persigehl Thorsten , Pennig Lenhard , Gietzen Carsten Herbert , Fervers Philipp , Maintz David , Hahnfeldt Robert , Kottlors Jonathan
Published: April 2024

GPT-4 (ChatGPT; OpenAI) matched the performance of radiologists in detecting errors in radiology reports and has the potential to reduce processing time and cost.
Bacillus Subtilis-Derived Carbon Nanorods as Efficient ORR Electrocatalysts
Authors: Sun Jintao , Ju Yunpeng , Bi Mengqi , Huang Naibao , Gao Zhen , Tang Miao , Li Wanting , Sun Xiannian , Yang Guogang
Published: April 2024

Developing high-performance anion-exchange membrane fuel cells requires stable and highly active oxygen reduction (ORR) catalysts. To fabricate cheap and efficient porous carbon materials for ORR, heteroatom-doped carbon nanorods were synthesized by pyrolyzing Bacillus subtilis. The obtained carbon material maintained the uniformly distributed nanorods as original Bacillus subtilis and had inherent doped heteroatom. The obtained BS-2.0 had the highest specific surface area (209.04 m2 g−1) and the maximum ID/IG (1.0372). Its starting potential (0.93 V vs RHE) and semi-wave potential (0.81 V vs RHE) were close to 20% commercial Pt/C, and its ultimate current density was 3.98 mA cm−2@1600 rpm. Meanwhile, the stability of cycling potentiates polarization, and methanol tolerance of BS-2.0 were all greater than 20% commercial Pt/C. It was the inherent heteroatom, well-distributed nanorods, abundant pore distribution, and large surface area that contributed to its excellent electrochemical performance.
Neuroimmunophysiology of the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: McKay Derek M. , Defaye Manon , Rajeev Sruthi , MacNaughton Wallace K. , Nasser Yasmin , Sharkey Keith A.
Published: April 2024

Gut physiology is the epicenter of a web of internal communication systems (i.e., neural, immune, hormonal) mediated by cell-cell contacts, soluble factors, and external influences, such as the microbiome, diet, and the physical environment. Together these provide the signals that shape enteric homeostasis and, when they go awry, lead to disease. Faced with the seemingly paradoxical tasks of nutrient uptake (digestion) and retarding pathogen invasion (host defense), the gut integrates interactions between a variety of cells and signaling molecules to keep the host nourished and protected from pathogens. When the system fails, the outcome can be acute or chronic disease, often labeled as “idiopathic” in nature (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease). Here we underscore the importance of a holistic approach to gut physiology, placing an emphasis on intercellular connectedness, using enteric neuroimmunophysiology as the paradigm. The goal of this opinion piece is to acknowledge the pace of change brought to our field via single-cell and -omic methodologies and other techniques such as cell lineage tracing, transgenic animal models, methods for culturing patient tissue, and advanced imaging. We identify gaps in the field and hope to inspire and challenge colleagues to take up the mantle and advance awareness of the subtleties, intricacies, and nuances of intestinal physiology in health and disease by defining communication pathways between gut resident cells, those recruited from the circulation, and “external” influences such as the central nervous system and the gut microbiota.
Isolation and Identification of Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica from Pneumonic Small Ruminants and Their Antibiotic Susceptibility in Haramaya District, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Abdulkadir Mohammed , Nigussie Taju , Kebede Isayas Asefa
Published: April 2024

Background. Pasteurella species are frequently encountered as serious diseases in small ruminants. It is the main cause of respiratory pasteurellosis in sheep and goats of all age groups. Methods. The cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2022 to April 2023 in Haramaya district, eastern Ethiopia, to isolate and identify Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica and estimate their prevalence, associated risk factors, and antimicrobial sensitivity of isolates in small ruminants using a purposive sampling method. A total of 384 samples (156 nasal swabs from clinic cases and 228 lung swabs from abattoir cases) were collected. STATA 14 software was used to analyze the data. In addition, multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess an association of risk factors. Results. Out of the 384 samples examined, 164 were positive for pasteurellosis, resulting in a 42.70% prevalence. Similarly, 63 (38.4%) of the 164 positive results were from nasal swabs, while 101 (61.6%) came from lung samples. M. haemolytica accounted for 126 (76.82%) of the isolates, while P. multocida accounted for 38 (23.17%). Of the 63 nasal swab isolates, 33 (37%) were from goats and 30 (42.8%) were from sheep. And 17 (10.89%) and 46 (29.58%), respectively, were P. multocida and M. haemolytica. Of the 46 (40%) of the 101 (44.3%) isolates of the pneumonic lung, samples were from goats, while 55 (48.47%) were from sheep. In this study, the risk factors (species, age, and body condition score) were found to be significant (p<0.05). Pasteurella isolates evaluated for antibiotic susceptibility were highly resistant to oxacillin (90.90%), followed by gentamycin (72.72%), and penicillin (63.63%). However, the isolates were highly sensitive to chloramphenicol (90.90%), followed by tetracycline (63.63%), and ampicillin (54.54%). Conclusion. This study showed that M. haemolytica and P. multocida are the common causes of mannheimiosis and pasteurellosis in small ruminants, respectively, and isolates were resistant to commonly used antibiotics in the study area. Thus, an integrated vaccination strategy, antimicrobial resistance monitoring, and avoidance of stress-inducing factors are recommended.
Effect of Friction Coefficient in Friction Stir Welding of B4C Reinforced AA5083 Metal Matrix Composites and Use of Fuzzy Clustering Technique for Weld Strength Prediction
Authors: Devanathan C. , Elil Raja D. , Sonar Tushar , Ivanov Mikhail
Published: April 2024

The friction stir welding (FSW) method was used to weld B4C reinforced AA 5083 metal matrix composites in this study. By coating titanium nitride (TiN), aluminium chromium nitride (AlCrN), and diamond-like carbon (DLC) to a thickness of 4 microns, three FSW tools with square pin profiles were developed and the friction coefficients of 0.69, 0.32, and 0.2 were maintained. At three levels, the process factors such as tool rotating speed, transverse feed, and axial force were examined. For each tool, 15 samples were made using the central composite design. The influence of the friction coefficient on ultimate tensile strength, microstructural features, and tool condition was studied, and the flower pollination algorithm (FPA) technique was used to find the best process parameters for obtaining maximum ultimate tensile strength of FSW joints. The improved tensile strength of FSW joints was verified using a validation test. The coating has a considerable influence on the ultimate tensile strength, microstructure, and tool condition, according to the results of the tool’s friction coefficient. The results on the prediction of strength using the fuzzy clustering technique showed that the technique is effective in predicting the tensile strength values, with the root mean square error (RSME) of TiN, AlCrN, and DLC being 0.0027, 0.0016, and 0.0015, respectively, and the low RSME indicating that the prediction based on the fuzzy subtractive clustering technique is perfect and effective.
Table S1 from Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kinyamu H. Karimi , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Archer Trevor K.
Published: April 2024

List of resources and experimental reagents used in the study.
Figure S6 from Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kinyamu H. Karimi , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Archer Trevor K.
Published: April 2024

Shows effects of MG132 on estrogen receptor-mediated transcription.
Two Cases of a Portal Annular Pancreas in Patients Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Ohta Mineto , Fukushima Keisuke , Nishimaki Hiroyasu , Morita Takayuki , Ito Yuta , Namiki Kenji
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Portal annular pancreas (PAP) is a congenital anomaly resulting from aberrant fusion of the ventral and dorsal pancreatic buds around the portal vein (PV). PAP was classified into three types by Joseph et al., based on the location of the main pancreatic duct around the PV. The presence of PAP is important for the surgical procedure because it is associated with the postoperative pancreatic fistula. There are no standardized surgical procedures of resection and reconstruction for PAP. Case Presentation: We report 2 cases of subtotal stomach-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy in patients with PAP. One case of PAP was discovered coincidentally intraoperatively, and the other case was diagnosed before surgery. The first case was an 84-year-old male patient who underwent surgery for distal bile duct cancer. PAP was noticed intraoperatively when the uncinate process of the pancreas was detached from behind the PV. The second case was an 84-year-old female patient who also underwent surgery for distal bile duct cancer. We recognized PAP from preoperative computed tomography images. In both cases, the ductal anatomy was consistent with type IIIA PAP, and the dorsal pancreas was resected using a stapling device. During the postoperative period, there was no clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula. Conclusion: PAP is rarely encountered intraoperatively; however, it is important to recognize it before surgery and take it into consideration when deciding upon the procedures for resection and reconstruction.
The Adult Carbohydrate Perception Questionnaire Identifies Patients with Lactose or Fructose Intolerance Who Respond to Diet
Authors: Klare Christian , Hammer Johann , Hammer Heinz Florian
Published: April 2024

Introduction: There is no evidence that a positive breath test is a good predictor of the success of a carbohydrate-restricted diet. Our objective was to investigate whether patients in whom lactose intolerance (LIT) or fructose intolerance (FIT) is diagnosed by validated symptom measurement respond to diet. Methods: Patients referred for evaluation of LIT or FIT underwent hydrogen/methane breath testing (malabsorption test) and symptom measurement with the adult Carbohydrate Perception Questionnaire (aCPQ, intolerance test) before and after 50 g lactose or 25 g fructose. Patients with a positive aCPQ received instructions on specific diets and supplements. Severity of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, flatulence, and nausea were measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS) before (VAS1, mm) and after (VAS2, mm) diet. The change in VAS for individual symptoms and overall symptoms after diet is expressed as deltaVAS (mm) and as change relative to VAS1 (%). Results: Forty-one patients were included (23 LIT, 8 FIT, 10 LIT+FIT). Eight patients had negative breath tests (no malabsorption). After 2 months of diet, the overall VAS and the individual symptoms decreased (p < 0.001). Overall VAS1 and the VAS1 for individual symptoms correlated significantly with the decrease in deltaVAS (mm) after diet. Nineteen patients (46%) had total recovery, and additional 13 patients (32%) had improvement of >50%. Response to diet was independent of breath test results. Conclusion: This uncontrolled and unblinded study suggests that patients with carbohydrate intolerance diagnosed by aCPQ benefit significantly from diet, independent of the presence of malabsorption. Controlled studies are required to confirm these results in larger patient groups.