bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel probiotic preparation with
in vivo
gluten-degrading activity and potential modulatory effects on the gut microbiota
Authors: Nikoloudaki Olga , Celano Giuseppe , Polo Andrea , Cappello Claudia , Granehäll Lena , Costantini Alice , Vacca Mirco , Speckmann Bodo , Di Cagno Raffaella , Francavilla Ruggiero , De Angelis Maria , Gobbetti Marco
Published: June 2024

Gluten possesses unique properties that render it only partially digestible. Consequently, it exerts detrimental effects on a part of the worldwide population who are afflicted with celiac disease (1%) or related disorders (5%), particularly due to the potential for cross-contamination even when adhering to a gluten-free diet (GFD). Finding solutions to break down gluten during digestion has a high nutritional and social impact. Here, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled
in vivo
challenge investigated the gluten-degrading activity of a novel probiotic preparation comprising lactobacilli and their cytoplasmic extracts,
Bacillus
sp., and bacterial protease. In our clinical trial, we collected feces from 70 healthy volunteers at specific time intervals. Probiotic/placebo administration lasted 32 days, followed by 10 days of wash-out. After preliminary GFD to eliminate residual gluten from feces, increasing amounts of gluten (50 mg–10 g) were administered, each one for 4 consecutive days. Compared to placebo, the feces of volunteers fed with probiotics showed much lower amounts of residual gluten, mainly with increased intakes. Probiotics also regulate the intestinal microbial communities, improving the abundance of genera pivotal to maintaining homeostasis. Quantitative PCR confirmed that all probiotics persisted during the intervention, some also during wash-out. Probiotics promoted a fecal metabolome with potential immunomodulating activity, mainly related to derivatives of branched-chain amino acids and short-chain fatty acids.

IMPORTANCE

The untapped potential of gluten-degrading bacteria and their application in addressing the recognized limitations of gluten-related disorder management and the ongoing risk of cross-contamination even when people follow a gluten-free diet (GFD) emphasizes the significance of the work. Because gluten, a common protein found in many cereals, must be strictly avoided to stop autoimmune reactions and related health problems, celiac disease and gluten sensitivity present difficult hurdles. However, because of the hidden presence of gluten in many food products and the constant danger of cross-contamination during food preparation and processing, total avoidance is frequently challenging. Our study presents a novel probiotic preparation suitable for people suffering from gluten-related disorders during GFD and for healthy individuals because it enhances gluten digestion and promotes gut microbiota functionality.
Perioperative management of phaeochromocytoma with stress cardiomyopathy and aberrant vascular drainage
Authors: Ng Audrey Jing Ting , Tiwari Raj Vikesh , Ho Vui Kian , Lee Lui Shiong
Published: June 2024

The following case discusses the surgical considerations for a patient presenting with cardiogenic shock secondary to a phaeochromocytoma crisis with stress cardiomyopathy. The patient underwent an interval laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Pneumoperitoneum insufflation was performed at lower pressures; manipulation of the adrenal tumour was minimised, and the adrenal vein was ligated early. However, as intraoperative blood pressure (BP) remained elevated and rising, further gentle dissection revealed an aberrant inferior phrenic vein draining the adrenal nodule. BP was finally reduced following ligation of the inferior phrenic vein, demonstrating the clinical significance of an unusual dual venous drainage from the adrenal nodule in this patient.
SABA prescriptions and asthma management practices in Singapore: results from a cross-sectional, observational SABINA III study
Authors: Tan David Hsien Yung , Tan Tze Lee , Tan Wee Hian , Choong Cheryl , Beekman Maarten J H I , Khor Joanne Huiyi , Kumar S Suraj , Wong Geraldine Ruining , Lim Hui Fang
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate asthma characteristics and treatment patterns, including short-acting β2-agonist (SABA) prescriptions, in primary and specialist care in the Singapore cohort of the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA III) study.

Design

Cross-sectional, observational study.

Setting

Multicentre study conducted at five sites across Singapore.

Methods

In patients with asthma (aged ≥12 years), data on demographics, disease characteristics and asthma treatment prescriptions were collected using electronic case report forms. Patients were classified by investigator-defined asthma severity (guided by 2017 Global Initiative for Asthma recommendations) and practice type (primary/specialist care).

Results

Of the 205 patients analysed (mean (SD) age, 53.6 (16.8) years; female, 62%), 55.9% were enrolled by specialists and 44.1% by primary care physicians. Most study patients (80.5%) had moderate-to-severe asthma (86.0% in specialist care and 74.4% in primary care). In the 12 months before study enrolment, 18.0% of patients experienced ≥1 severe exacerbation. Asthma was well or partly controlled in 78.0% of patients. Overall, 17.1% of all patients were overprescribed SABA (≥3 SABA canisters/year) in the preceding 12 months, and overprescription was greater in specialist versus primary care (26.3% vs 5.6%). Only 2.9% of patients were prescribed SABA monotherapy, while 41.0% received SABA in addition to maintenance therapy. Among the latter, 40.5% were overprescribed SABA. Overall, a higher percentage of patients prescribed ≥3 SABA canisters (vs 0–2 SABA canisters) were assessed as having uncontrolled asthma during the study visit (42.9% vs 17.6%). Maintenance therapy in the form of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) or ICS/long-acting β2agonist fixed-dose combinations were prescribed to 14.1% and 84.9% of patients, respectively, in the 12 months before enrolment.

Conclusions

In this Singapore cohort, ~17% of all patients and more than 40% of patients prescribed SABA in addition to maintenance therapy were overprescribed SABA. These findings emphasise the need to align clinical practices with the latest evidence-based treatment recommendations.

Trial registration

NCT03857178.
Interview study exploring how global health partnership principles are enacted and recommendations for practice
Authors: Turner Rebecca Rose , Hart Jo , Carr Natalie , Bull Eleanor , Fraser Jessica , Byrne-Davis Lucie
Published: June 2024

Background

Effective global health partnerships can strengthen and improve health and healthcare systems across the world; however, establishing and maintaining effective partnerships can be challenging. Principles of Partnerships have been developed to improve the quality and effectiveness of health partnerships. It is unclear how principles are enacted in practice, and current research has not always included the voices of low-income and middle-income country partners. This study aimed to explore how The Tropical Health and Education Trust’s nine Principles of Partnership are enacted in practice, from the points of view of partners from low-income, middle-income and high-income countries, to help improve partnerships’ quality and sustainability.

Methods

People who had been a part of previous and/or ongoing health partnerships were interviewed virtually. Participants were purposefully sampled and interviews were conducted using an appreciative inquiry approach. Audio recordings were transcribed and deductive framework analysis was conducted.

Results

13 participants from 8 partnerships were interviewed. Six participants were based in the low-income or middle-income countries and seven in the UK. Key findings identified strategies that enacted ‘successful’ and ‘effective’ partnerships within the Principles of Partnerships. These included practical techniques such as hiring a project manager, managing expectations and openly sharing information about the team’s expertise and aspirations. Other strategies included the importance of consulting behavioural science to ensure the partnerships consider longevity and sustainability of the partnership.

Discussion

Core principles to effective partnerships do not work in isolation of each other; they are intertwined and are complimentary to support equitable partnerships. Good communication and relationships built on trust which allow all partners to contribute equally throughout the project are core foundations for sustainable partnerships. Recommendations for established and future partnerships include embedding behavioural scientists/psychologists to support change to improve the quality and sustainability of health partnerships.
Cohort profile of BIGPROMISE: a perioperative biobank of a high-risk surgical population
Authors: Noordzij Peter G , Ruven Henk JT , Reniers Ted , Idema Rene N , Thio Maaike SY , Cremer Olaf L , Hollema Nynke , Smit Kyra N , Vernooij Lisette M , Dijkstra Ineke M , Rettig Thijs CD
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Postoperative complications increase mortality, disability and costs. Advanced understanding of the risk factors for postoperative complications is needed to improve surgical outcomes. This paper discusses the rationale and profile of the BIGPROMISE (biomarkers to guide perioperative management and improve outcome in high-risk surgery) cohort, that aims to investigate risk factors, pathophysiology and outcomes related to postoperative complications.

Participants

Adult patients undergoing major surgery in two tertiary teaching hospitals. Clinical data and blood samples are collected before surgery, at the end of surgery and on the first, second and third postoperative day. At each time point a panel of cardiovascular, inflammatory, renal, haematological and metabolic biomarkers is assessed. Aliquots of plasma, serum and whole blood of each time point are frozen and stored. Data on severe complications are prospectively collected during 30 days after surgery. Functional status is assessed before surgery and after 120 days using the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0. Mortality is followed up until 2 years after surgery.

Findings to date

The first patient was enrolled on 8 October 2021. Currently (1 January 2024) 3086 patients were screened for eligibility, of whom 1750 (57%) provided informed consent for study participation. Median age was 66 years (60; 73), 28% were female, and 68% of all patients were American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status class 3. Most common types of major surgery were cardiac (49%) and gastro-intestinal procedures (26%). The overall incidence of 30-day severe postoperative complications was 16%.

Future plans

By the end of the recruitment phase, expected in 2026, approximately 3000 patients with major surgery will have been enrolled. This cohort allows us to investigate the role of pathophysiological perioperative processes in the cause of postoperative complications, and to discover and develop new biomarkers to improve risk stratification for adverse postoperative outcomes.

Trial registration number

NCT05199025.
Efficacy and safety of tirofiban in patients with acute branch atheromatous disease-related stroke (BRANT): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Shengde , Zhang Dingding , Sha Yuhui , Zhu Yicheng , Zhou Lixin , Peng Bin , Ni Jun
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Branch atheromatous disease (BAD)-related stroke is increasingly becoming a clinical entity and prone to early neurological deterioration (END) and poor prognosis. There are no effective regimens to reduce the disability caused by BAD-related stroke in acute phase. Recent studies have indicated the efficacy of tirofiban in acute ischaemic stroke; however, its efficacy has not been validated in patients with BAD-related stroke. Thus, we aim to test whether intravenous tirofiban initiated within 48 hours after the onset would improve the functional outcome in patients with acute BAD-related stroke, in comparison with the standard antiplatelet therapy based on the current guideline.

Methods and analysis

BRANT is a multicentre, randomised, open-label, blinded endpoint, parallel-controlled, phase III trial conducted in 21 hospitals in China. Participants aged 18–75 years with acute BAD-related stroke within 48 hours after the stroke onset are randomised in a 1:1 ratio to the tirofiban or control group. The treatment period is 48 hours in both groups. The primary outcome is the excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale Score: 0–1) at 90 days. The secondary outcomes include END, major bleeding, stroke, death, functional status, serious adverse events and change in bleeding-related markers. Assuming the rates of the primary outcome to be 74% in the tirofiban group and 62% in the control group, a total of 516 participants are needed for 0.8 power (two-sided 0.05 alpha).

Ethics and dissemination

BRANT study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Peking Union Medical College Hospital (I-23PJ1242). Written informed consent is required for all the patients before enrolment. The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06037889).
Understanding the association between family planning and fertility reduction in Southeast Asia: a scoping review
Authors: Rizkianti Anissa , Kistiana Sari , Fajarningtiyas Desy Nuri , Hutasoit Evalina Franciska , Baskoro Andhika Ajie , Maryani Herti , Titisari Anastasia Septya , Sari Diah Puspita , Naibaho Margareth Maya P , Melissa Melissa , Muthmainnah Muthmainnah
Published: June 2024

Objectives

We aimed to explore and understand the extent and type of evidence on fertility reduction and its association with family planning (FP) in Southeast Asia.

Design

Scoping review, following the methodological principles developed by Arksey and O’Malley and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines for reporting.

Data source

We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, ProQuest, EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and reference lists of relevant articles between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2022. Only open-access articles in English were considered.

Study selection

For inclusion, observational studies were selected for eligibility based on the original articles investigating the uptake of FP on women aged 15–49 years and its association with fertility decline in Southeast Asian (SEA) countries.

Data extraction and analysis

Two reviewers screened the records independently for eligibility and extracted all data. The specific details of the studies, including data on the authors, year of publication, setting, study design, aims/objectives of the study, specific intervention, outcomes and main findings, were reported.

Results

We retrieved 615 articles and retained 12 articles included in the analysis. Of these, 11 were quantitative studies and 1 was qualitative study. The frequently reported strategy of FP was the use of contraception. FP not only allows women to control their birth by spacing and limiting their pregnancies but also delay their first childbirth by using contraceptive methods.

Conclusion

Our review suggests that the FP programmes aiming at reducing fertility should have a specific focus on improving the uptake and continuation of FP services.
Neoadjuvant toripalimab combined with axitinib in patients with locally advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a single-arm, phase II trial
Authors: Huang Jiwei , Wang Yueming , Xu Fan , Wang Zaoyu , Wu Guangyu , Kong Wen , Cheoklong NG , Tricard Thibault , Wu Xiaorong , Zhai Wei , Zhang Wei , Zhang Jiyang , Zhang Ding , Chen Shuyin , Lian Yuqing , Chen Yonghui , Zhang Jin , Huang Yiran , Xue Wei
Published: June 2024

Background

A combination of axitinib and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demonstrated promising efficacy in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study aims to prospectively evaluate the safety, efficacy, and biomarkers of neoadjuvant toripalimab plus axitinib in non-metastatic clear cell RCC.

Methods

This is a single-institution, single-arm phase II clinical trial. Patients with non-metastatic biopsy-proven clear cell RCC (T2-T3N0-1M0) are enrolled. Patients will receive axitinib 5 mg twice daily combined with toripalimab 240 mg every 3 weeks (three cycles) for up to 12 weeks. Patients then will receive partial (PN) or radical nephrectomy (RN) after neoadjuvant therapy. The primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints include disease-free survival, safety, and perioperative complication rate. Predictive biomarkers are involved in exploratory analysis.

Results

A total of 20 patients were enrolled in the study, with 19 of them undergoing surgery. One patient declined surgery. The primary endpoint ORR was 45%. The posterior distribution of πORR had a mean of 0.44 (95% credible intervals: 0.24–0.64), meeting the predefined primary endpoint with an ORR of 32%. Tumor shrinkage was observed in 95% of patients prior to nephrectomy. Furthermore, four patients achieved a pathological complete response. Grade ≥3 adverse events occurred in 25% of patients, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, glutamic pyruvic transaminase/glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (ALT/AST) increase, and proteinuria. Postoperatively, one grade 4a and eight grade 1–2 complications were noted. In comparison to patients with stable disease, responders exhibited significant differences in immune factors such as Arginase 1(ARG1), Melanoma antigen (MAGEs), Dendritic Cell (DC), TNF Superfamily Member 13 (TNFSF13), Apelin Receptor (APLNR), and C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 3 Like 1 (CCL3-L1). The limitation of this trial was the small sample size.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant toripalimab combined with axitinib shows encouraging activity and acceptable toxicity in locally advanced clear cell RCC and warrants further study.

Trial registration number

clinicaltrials.gov,NCT04118855.
Value of SLE-DAS in assessing disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Ma Jinlu , Zhang Lin , Yan Mengxue , Liu Zhichun , Xue Leixi
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical value of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score (SLE-DAS) for assessing disease activity in patients with SLE.

Methods

Clinical data were collected from patients with SLE who were admitted at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from January 2009 to December 2022. The glucocorticoid dose grading was used as the gold standard for disease activity assessment in SLE. The SLE-DAS value was calculated, and the SLE disease activity status was graded based on the SLE-DAS value. Another scoring criterion, the SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI 2000), served as a control. Spearman correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation between the scoring criteria and other variables.

Results

The analysis included 396 patients with SLE. A strong correlation was found between SLE-DAS and SLEDAI 2000 (ρ=0.709, 95% CI 0.648 to 0.766, p<0.001), with median SLE-DAS and SLEDAI 2000 scores of 15.32 (7.90 to 24.45) and 13 (8 to 19), respectively. Compared with the SLEDAI 2000 value, the SLE-DAS value correlated better with glucocorticoid dose grading (ρ=0.434 vs 0.518), gammaglobulin use (ρ=0.170 vs 0.318) and immunosuppressant use (ρ=0.122 vs 0.221). A moderate correlation based on disease activity grading was found between SLE-DAS and glucocorticoid dose grading (ρ=0.441), whereas a mild correlation was observed between SLEDAI 2000 and glucocorticoid dose grading (ρ=0.325). Additionally, SLE-DAS revealed a positive correlation with severe thrombocytopenia, cardiac involvement and pulmonary involvement but not SLEDAI 2000.

Conclusion

Compared with SLEDAI 2000, SLE-DAS may provide a more accurate disease activity assessment in patients with SLE, especially those with severe thrombocytopenia and cardiopulmonary involvement.
Two-year clinical follow-up enhances the diagnosis of early-stage hip osteoarthritis: data from check cohort
Authors: Runhaar Jos , Özbulut Ömer , Kloppenburg Margreet , Boers Maarten , Bijlsma Johannes W J , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita
Published: June 2024

Objective

To provide a set of diagnostic criteria for early-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA) in primary care, using signs and symptoms monitored over 2 years in individuals with hip pain and/or stiffness. Additionally, the study aimed to see whether these factors were additive to factors based on baseline signs and symptoms only.

Methods

Data of the 543 persons with 735 symptomatic hips were collected from the prospective Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee cohort study. Using data from 5 to 10 years of follow-up, 24 experts (13 general practitioners, 11 secondary care physicians (6 rheumatologists and 5 orthopaedic surgeons)) inspected individuals’ medical data on the presence of clinically relevant hip OA. Their diagnoses are used as reference standards. Backward selection method was used to provide models using the factors from baseline to 2 years of follow-up. Additionally, new models were combined with previously published models, using same selection method. Area under the curve (AUC) was calculated after each removal of factors in the final combined models.

Results

Radiographic factors and high-sensitive C reactive protein did not end up in any model with change factors only. AUC value (SD) of the final obtained model of change factors was 0.70 (0.01). Adding newly defined factors to previously published models significantly (p<0.0001) increased the AUC value to 0.75 (0.01).

Conclusion

Final diagnostic criteria, consisting only of the factors obtained through history taking and physical examination, were able to detect early-stage hip OA associated with clinically relevant hip OA 5–10 years later, with ‘moderate’ precision.
Left atrial appendage closure in patients with atrial fibrillation and acute ischaemic stroke despite anticoagulation
Authors: Abramovitz Fouks Avia , Yaghi Shadi , Selim Magdy H , Gökçal Elif , Das Alvin S , Rotschild Ofer , Silverman Scott B , Singhal Aneesh B , Kapur Sunil , Greenberg Steven M , Gurol Mahmut Edip
Published: June 2024

Background

The occurrence of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) while using oral anticoagulants (OAC) is an increasingly recognised problem among nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients. We aimed to elucidate the potential role of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) for stroke prevention in patients with AIS despite OAC use (AIS-despite-OAC).

Methods

We retrospectively collected baseline and follow-up data from consecutive NVAF patients who had AIS-despite-OAC and subsequently underwent endovascular LAAC, between January 2015 and October 2021. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of AIS after LAAC, and the safety outcome was symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH).

Results

29 patients had LAAC specifically because of AIS-despite-OAC. The mean age at the time of the procedure was 73.4±8.7, 13 were female (44.82%). The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 5.96±1.32, with an expected AIS risk of 8.44 per 100 patient-years. 14 patients (48%) had two or more past AIS-despite-OAC. After LAAC, 27 patients (93.10%) were discharged on OAC which was discontinued in 17 (58.62%) after transoesophageal echocardiogram at 6 weeks. Over a mean of 1.75±1.0 years follow-up after LAAC, one patient had an AIS (incidence rate (IR) 1.97 per 100 patient-years). One patient with severe cerebral microangiopathy had a small ICH while on direct OAC and antiplatelet 647 days after LAAC.

Conclusions

LAAC in AIS-despite-OAC patients demonstrated a low annual AIS recurrence rate in our cohort (1.97%) compared with the expected IR based on their CHA2DS2-VASc scores (8.44%) and to recent large series of AIS-despite-OAC patients treated with OAC/aspirin only (5.3%–8.9%). These hypothesis-generating findings support randomised trials of LAAC in AIS-despite-OAC patients.
The Effect of Knowledge Hiding on Academic and Employee Performances of the Private Universities in Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Mohamed Mohamud Ahmed , Iidle Fadumo Aden , Mohamud Ibrahim Hassan
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of this research is to examine the correlation between knowledge hiding and academic and employee performances in the setting of private institutions in Mogadishu. This study used a quantitative methodology to carry out field research with a sample size of 120 academic staff members. The data collection method was executed meticulously, ensuring that the study’s findings maintain high validity and reliability. Statistical software such as SPSS and Smart PLS were subsequently utilised to analyse the data. The research findings indicate that including evasive hiding positively impacts academic and employee performances. Play dumb and rational hiding strategies negatively impact academic and employee arrangements within the context of private universities in Mogadishu. The presented empirical data contribute to the current theoretical understanding of the detrimental impacts of knowledge hiding. They precisely examine the widespread occurrences of evasive, play dumb and reasonable hiding. This study contributes substantially to the current scholarly debate around knowledge hiding inside academic institutions, providing valuable insights into the adverse outcomes associated with this phenomenon. A list of recommendations for future research was provided in the study in response to the identified limitations.
On global behavior of classical effective field theories
Authors: Kadar Istvan
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we continue the rigorous study of classical effective field theories (EFTs) that was recently initiated in the work of Reall and Warnick. We study a system with one light and one heavy field with cubic coupling and prove global existence [of the ultraviolet (UV) solution] under an effective norm in the high mass limit. Furthermore, we prove that the global solution linearly scatters (in Lax–Philips sense) and that this final state has an expansion in inverse powers of the mass, and can be recovered from the EFT equation alone.
Evolution of the NMME Rainfall Seasonal Forecasting over Central Africa
Authors: Tchinda Armand Feudjio , Tanessong Roméo Stève , Mamadou Ossénatou , Chabi Orou Jean Bio
Published: June 2024

The North American Multi-Model Ensemble (NMME) has grown into a fully developed scientific database for seasonal and sub-seasonal climate forecasts, progressing prediction from global to regional scales. The NMME has continuously developed, with new models replacing old ones; it is hypothesized that this development will generate more accurate forecasts over time. However, to date, this hypothesis has not been verified in Central Africa (CA). This study investigates the hypothesis that the skill of NMME models will increase as the forecasting system advances, focusing on rainfall in CA. The study is conducted for the four configuration (phases) of NMME models, from the oldest to the most recent. The analyses are performed with Short Lead (SL) time and Long Lead (LL) time hindcasts very coherent with the perspectives of the CA. The results show from configuration 1 (phase 1) to configurations 4 (phase 4), the NMME models reasonably replicate the spatial structures in the seasonal rainfall climatology of the observations with a remarkable bias at LL. The mean absolute error and root mean square difference reveal small but incremental improvements in the prediction skills of NMME models from phase 1 to phase 4. The Pearson coefficient (r) increased in SL by about 1%, i.e., from 0.94 to 0.95 during June–August (JJA) season and about 4% during the September–November (SON), i.e., from [Formula: see text] in phase 1 to [Formula: see text] in phase 4, about 3% from phase 1 to phase 4 during the March–May (MAM). The categorical scores show that the Probability of Detection (POD) and False Alarm (FAR) increased very slightly from phase 1 to phase 4, but is it noted that the different combinations of the NMME forecasting system present difficulties in predicting rainy and dry events. It should be added that by introducing newer models into a multi-model ensemble as they are developed, and by eliminating older models, small skill gains are observed in the NMME forecasting system in CA.
Visualization for Recommendation Explainability: A Survey and New Perspectives
Authors: Chatti Mohamed Amine , Guesmi Mouadh , Muslim Arham
Published: June 2024

Providing system-generated explanations for recommendations represents an important step toward transparent and trustworthy recommender systems. Explainable recommender systems provide a human-understandable rationale for their outputs. Over the past two decades, explainable recommendation has attracted much attention in the recommender systems research community. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of research efforts on visual explanation in recommender systems. More concretely, we systematically review the literature on explanations in recommender systems based on four dimensions, namely explanation aim, explanation scope, explanation method, and explanation format. Recognizing the importance of visualization, we approach the recommender system literature from the angle of explanatory visualizations, that is using visualizations as a display style of explanation. As a result, we derive a set of guidelines that might be constructive for designing explanatory visualizations in recommender systems and identify perspectives for future work in this field. The aim of this review is to help recommendation researchers and practitioners better understand the potential of visually explainable recommendation research and to support them in the systematic design of visual explanations in current and future recommender systems.
Gaps in our understanding of how vagal afferents to the small intestinal mucosa detect luminal stimuli
Authors: Fox Edward A. , Serlin Hannah K.
Published: June 2024

Vagal afferents to the gastrointestinal tract are crucial for the regulation of food intake, signaling negative feedback that contributes to satiation and positive feedback that produces appetition and reward. Vagal afferents to the small intestinal mucosa contribute to this regulation by sensing luminal stimuli and reporting this information to the brain. These afferents respond to mechanical, chemical, thermal, pH, and osmolar stimuli, as well as to bacterial products and immunogens. Surprisingly, little is known about how these stimuli are transduced by vagal mucosal afferents or how their transduction is organized among these afferents’ terminals. Furthermore, the effects of stimulus concentration ranges or physiological stimuli on vagal activity have not been examined for some of these stimuli. Also, detection of luminal stimuli has rarely been examined in rodents, which are most frequently used for studying small intestinal innervation. Here we review what is known about stimulus detection by vagal mucosal afferents and illustrate the complexity of this detection using nutrients as an exemplar. The accepted model proposes that nutrients bind to taste receptors on enteroendocrine cells (EECs), which excite them, causing the release of hormones that stimulate vagal mucosal afferents. However, evidence reviewed here suggests that although this model accounts for many aspects of vagal signaling about nutrients, it cannot account for all aspects. A major goal of this review is therefore to evaluate what is known about nutrient absorption and detection and, based on this evaluation, identify candidate mucosal cells and structures that could cooperate with EECs and vagal mucosal afferents in stimulus detection.
The Effect of Active Packaging Film Based on Chitosan Containing Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Extract on Cheese Shelf Life
Authors: Ghasemian Seyedeh Ommolbanin , Ahmadi-Dastgerdi Asiye , Abdollahi Azin , Tirtashi Fahimeh Ebrahimi , Zokaei Maryam , Fallah Neda , NajafAbadi Parisa Izadi , Dolatyari Fariborz
Published: June 2024

White cheese is an inseparable part of the Persian breakfast table. However, it has limited shelf life owing to microbial growth and chemical changes. Application of active packaging incorporated with essential oils is an innovative technique to retain quality and extend shelf life of foods. In this study, the effect of chitosan (Ch 1 and 2%) film containing rosemary extract (RE 0.5 and 1%) was studied on the shelf life of white cheese at 4°C for 45 days. The physicochemical evaluation showed that all treated cheeses had higher pH, moisture, and fat content, but acidity and hardness in treated cheeses were lower than the nontreated ones. During storage, pH, moisture, and fat content decreased and acidity and hardness increased. At the end of the storage, the highest acidity (1.79 g lactic acid) and hardness (3.5 N) and the lowest pH (4.1) were observed in the control sample, and the highest moisture (53.92%) and fat (21.84%) content was observed in E2C2 treatment (1% extract + 2% chitosan). The active packaging of cheese caused a significant decrease in the total count of bacteria, coliforms, lactic acid bacteria, mold, and yeast. The population of microorganisms in the control sample increased significantly during storage (p < 0.05). The treated cheeses had acceptable sensory properties. The most effective treatment for maintaining the physicochemical properties and retarding the growth of microorganisms in cheese was the E2C2 sample. Therefore, it can be used in active packaging systems of cheese.
Integrated Community‐Based Nutrition Interventions Improve Diet Quality, Food, and Credit Access among Rural Women in Northern Ghana
Authors: Kubuga Clement Kubreziga , Sienso Gifty
Published: June 2024

Globally, micronutrient deficiencies are widespread in women due to poor diet quality and elevated needs of the subgroup. Undernutrition, specifically micronutrient deficiencies, is a major problem in Ghana, especially in northern Ghana during the prolonged dry/lean season. Recent data indicate high prevalence of poor‐quality diets intake among women, which buttresses the observed high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in northern Ghana. In this study, we investigated the potential of integrated community‐based interventions (ICI) to improve diet quality and food access in a quasi‐experimental study. The experimental design comprised an experimental group of women (n = 150) from the Sakaa and Nakolo communities and a control group of women (n = 123) from the Bonia and Bugani communities. The experimental group was provided with credit access and solar‐powered irrigation facility for dry‐season community gardening, while the control group had access to only credit. The study revealed that during the dry/lean season, when food and nutrition insecurity is historically at its worst, ICI significantly improved diet quality (p ≤ 0.0001), access to food, and credit access. Our findings suggest that ICI is an effective approach in tackling food and nutrition insecurity in Northern Ghana than standalone interventions. While the findings from our study are encouraging, we acknowledge that more long‐term research is necessary.
Is It Time to Step outside the Laboratory? The Feasibility of Field‐Based Examination of Exercise‐Induced Hypoalgesia in Elite Badminton Athletes with and without Knee Pain
Authors: Coombes Brooke K. , Mendis M. Dilani , Leung Felix , Hides Julie A.
Published: June 2024

Aim. To investigate the feasibility of testing exercise‐induced hypoalgesia (EIH) in a field setting. The effect of knee pain on EIH was also explored. Design. Within‐group pre‐post design. Materials and Methods. Fourteen athletes (8 male, 6 female) competing at an international level in badminton were tested on the sideline during an in‐season training session. Participants completed questionnaires and a single leg decline squat to evaluate the presence of knee pain. A blinded examiner measured PPT over the quadriceps muscle before and after two conditions (3‐minute quiet rest and 3‐minute isometric wall squat). Results. The exercise protocol was completed by 13 (93%) participants. Mean (SD) exertion was 8.4 (1.7), and mean thigh pain was 7.9 (2.0) at 3 minutes. Very high reliability was observed for PPT collected before and after rest (ICC 0.94, 95% CI 0.85, 0.98). PPT significantly increased by 22.4% (95% CI 15.1, 29.7) after wall squat but not after rest. Relative increases in PPT were similar in participants with and without knee pain on single leg decline squat (22.2% versus 22.6%, 7 participants each). Conclusion. Simple, field‐based tests of endogenous analgesia are feasible and could provide new opportunities to evaluate an athlete’s risk of persistent pain.
On Stability Analysis of Linear Axially Moving Damped Beam with Elastic Foundation
Authors: Mallah Ghulam Yameen , Malookani Rajab Ali , Sandilo Sajad Hussain , Dehraj Sanaullah
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the dynamical behavior of an axially moving beam with elastic foundation under viscous damping. The beam is taken to be simply supported at the ends. Axial speed of beam is assumed to be time‐dependent function about a relatively low mean constant speed. The motion of axially moving beam in the term of transverse vibrations is expressed in the fourth‐order linear and homogeneous partial differential equations with variable coefficients. The governing equations of motion are solved by using the two timescales perturbation method together with the Fourier expansion method. The sum and difference‐type resonances are taken to examine the stability of the system. The influence of the parameters such as damping and stiffness of foundation on the transverse amplitude response of the system is seen. It is found out that the system is stable with the increase in damping.
Supplementary Figure 7 from FOXO1 Inhibition Generates Potent Nonactivated CAR T Cells against Solid Tumors
Authors: Marchais Maude , Simula Luca , Phayanouvong Mélanie , Mami-Chouaib Fathia , Bismuth Georges , Decroocq Justine , Bouscary Didier , Dutrieux Jacques , Mangeney Marianne
Published: June 2024

CAR-TAS cells are more potent in vivo.
Supplementary Figure 2 from FOXO1 Inhibition Generates Potent Nonactivated CAR T Cells against Solid Tumors
Authors: Marchais Maude , Simula Luca , Phayanouvong Mélanie , Mami-Chouaib Fathia , Bismuth Georges , Decroocq Justine , Bouscary Didier , Dutrieux Jacques , Mangeney Marianne
Published: June 2024

A mutated FOXO1 form, lacking its ability to bind to DNA, mimics the phenotypic changes induced by AS1842856.
Supplementary Table S5 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Table S5
Supplementary Figure S7 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure S7
Supplementary Figure S2 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure S2
Supplementary Figure S1 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure S1
Relationship of Suboptimal and Disordered Sleep with Cardiovascular Disease and Its Risk Factors – A Narrative Review
Authors: Wipper Benjamin , Mayer-Suess Lukas , Cesari Matteo , Ibrahim Abubaker , Winkelman John , Kiechl Stefan
Published: June 2024

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease, is already amongst the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, but its burden continues to rise. Over time, relevant risk factors for CVD have been identified, many of which are modifiable. More recently, the relationship of sleep and CVD has been of interest, specifically increased rates of disrupted and disordered sleep, which have been found to be associated with CVD. Longitudinal studies have linked sleep difficulties to a predisposition of vascular risk factors, suggesting a potential role for sleep improvement in primary and secondary CVD. Summary: In the present narrative review article, we summarize the current body of research linking suboptimal sleep (e.g., short/long sleep, fragmented sleep) as well as nonbreathing-related sleep disorders (i.e., insomnia, restless legs syndrome/peripheral leg movements of sleep, narcolepsy) to modifiable CVD risk factors and CVD outcomes (morbidity and mortality).
A Hypothesis for Anatomical Pathways of Chronic Pelvic Pain of “Unknown Origin”
Authors: Petros Peter , Papadimitriou John , Bornstein Jacob
Published: June 2024

Background: Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a disabling bladder condition. ESSIC, the IC/BPS society defines two types of IC/BPS: with Hunner’s lesion (HL) and without. Pathogenesis is stated as unknown, with no cure possible. Scheffler in 2021 reported cystoscopically validated cure of HL IC/BPS by repair of uterosacral ligaments (USLs) and in 2022, Goeschen reported non-HL IC/BPS cure in 198 women following USL repair. Both Scheffler and Goeschen hypothesized IC/BPS may be a phenotype of the Integral Theory’s Posterior Fornix Syndrome “PFS” (chronic pelvic pain, OAB, and emptying dysfunctions) and therefore potentially curable. Summary: The hypothesis explores whether visceral plexuses (VPs), due to weakened USLs support, serve as a primary source of pelvic pain impulses, leading to development of an inflammatory condition – for example, IC/BPS, a chronic inflammatory condition, which shares similarities with vulvodynia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). According to our hypothesis, such conditions involve axon reflexes. Stimuli such as gravity applied to unsupported nerve branches within the visceral pelvic plexus, trigger centrally propagating impulses, which then progress antidromally to influence innervated tissues through cytokine release and nociceptor stimulation, perpetuating inflammatory processes at the end organs, and pain perception. Key Messages: The hypothesis raises the question, “are IC/BPS, vulvodynia, other pain sites, even nonbacterial “chronic prostatitis” in the male, different phenotypes of the chronic pelvic pain syndrome which includes PFS. If so, the hypothesis opens several new research directions and would predict inflammatory findings in tender end organ pain sites.
What’s new in dementia risk prediction modelling? An updated systematic review
Authors: Brain Jacob , Kafadar Aysegul Humeyra , Errington Linda , Kirkley Rachael , Tang Eugene Y.H. , Akyea Ralph K. , Bains Manpreet , Brayne Carol , Figueredo Grazziela , Greene Leanne , Louise Jennie , Morgan Catharine , Pakpahan Eduwin , Reeves David , Robinson Louise , Salter Amy , Siervo Mario , Tully Phillip J. , Turnbull Deborah , Qureshi Nadeem , Stephan Blossom C.M.
Published: June 2024

Introduction
Identifying individuals at high risk of dementia is critical to optimized clinical care, formulating effective preventative strategies, and determining eligibility for clinical trials. Since our previous systematic reviews in 2010 and 2015, there has been a surge in dementia risk prediction modelling. The aim of this study is to update our previous reviews to explore, and critically review, new developments in dementia risk modelling.
Methods
MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from March 2014 to June 2022. Studies were included if they were population or community-based cohorts (including electronic health record data), had developed a model for predicting late-life incident dementia and included model performance indices such as discrimination, calibration, or external validation.
Results
In total, 9,209 articles were identified from the electronic search, of which 74 met the inclusion criteria. We found a substantial increase in the number of new models published from 2014 (>50 new models), including an increase in the number of models developed using machine learning. Over 450 unique predictor (component) variables have been tested. Nineteen studies (26%) undertook external validation of newly developed or existing models, with mixed results. For the first time, models have also been developed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and others validated in racial and ethnic minority groups.
Conclusion
The literature on dementia risk prediction modelling is rapidly evolving with new analytical developments and testing in LMICs. However, it is still challenging to make recommendations about which one model is the most suitable for routine use in a clinical setting. There is an urgent need to develop a suitable, robust, validated risk prediction model in the general population that can be widely implemented in clinical practice to improve dementia prevention.
Copas do mundo de basquetebol: 1950-2023
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Rose Junior Dante De
Published: June 2024

O livro Campeonatos Mundiais e Copas do Mundo de Basquetebol: história, números e curiosidades foi lançado em 2019 no Portal de Livros Abertos da USP que dava acesso livre à obra que contava a história desses eventos ao longo do tempo. Naquele livro o autor trouxe dados dos referidos torneios de 1950 a 2019 no masculino e de 1953 a 2018 no feminino. Em 2022 e 2023 foram realizadas as Copas do Mundo de Basquetebol feminino e masculino, respectivamente, e com elas a necessidade de uma nova obra revisada e atualizada oferecendo uma leitura mais simples, clara e objetiva. O livro Copas do Mundo de Basquetebol: 1950 – 2023 traz fatos e números do basquetebol mundial atualizado, com a consolidação de novas potências no esporte e surgimento de outras que até então não faziam parte do ambiente rotineiro do basquetebol e, porque não dizer, de países que estavam no topo e decepcionaram por seus desempenhos abaixo do normal nos recentes campeonatos. Para quem gosta de basquetebol e de história, este livro com uma nova roupagem, é um documento importante para pesquisas e para aulas e essencial para a manutenção da memória do nosso esporte. Portanto, abra o livro e aproveite. A história continua.
Aculturação e Messianismo entre Índios Brasileiros
Authors: Schaden Egon
Published: June 2024

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Gûasú e Usú na Diacronia das Línguas e Dialetos Tupi-Guaranis
Authors: Edelweiss Frederico G.
Published: June 2024

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