bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An adaptable, fit-for-purpose screening approach with high-throughput capability to determine speed of action and stage specificity of anti-malarial compounds
Authors: Duffy Sandra , Sleebs Brad E. , Avery Vicky M.
Published: September 2024

A revamped
in vitro
compound identification and activity profiling approach is required to meet the large unmet need for new anti-malarial drugs to combat parasite drug resistance. Although compound hit identification utilizing high-throughput screening of large compound libraries is well established, the ability to rapidly prioritize such large numbers for further development is limited. Determining the speed of action of anti-malarial drug candidates is a vital component of malaria drug discovery, which currently occurs predominantly in lead optimization and development. This is due in part to the capacity of current methods which have low throughput due to the complexity and labor intensity of the approaches. Here, we provide an adaptable screening paradigm utilizing automated high content imaging, including the development of an automated schizont maturation assay, which collectively can identify anti-malarial compounds, classify activity into fast and slow acting, and provide an indication of the parasite stage specificity, with high-throughput capability. By frontloading these critical biological parameters much earlier in the drug discovery pipeline, it has the potential to reduce lead compound attrition rates later in the development process. The capability of the approach in its alternative formats is demonstrated using three Medicines for Malaria Venture open access compound “boxes,” namely Pathogen Box (malaria set—125 compounds), Global Health Priority Box [Malaria Box 2 (80 compounds) and zoonotic neglected diseases (80 compounds)], and the Pandemic Response Box (400 compounds). From a total of 685 compounds tested, 79 were identified as having fast ring-stage-specific activity comparable to that of artemisinin and therefore of high priority for further consideration and development.
Complete genomes of two cluster AK
Arthrobacter
phages isolated from soil samples in Newburgh, NY, United States
Authors: Delesalle Véronique A. , King Mariah A.K. , Rozario Tabitha J. , Wolf Noah D. , Stewart Connor J. , DeMato Luke F. , Trafford Kevin F. , Adhikari Saiman , Dinh Van T. , Caputo Gina , Hunter Ashley , Licata Michelle , Modell Misun , Bhalla Suparna
Published: September 2024

Two phages belonging to
Arthrobacter
phage cluster AK were isolated from soil samples collected in Newburgh, NY in 2021. Both are lytic with a genome organization typical of siphoviruses except for two genes encoding minor tail proteins with pyocin-knob domains found early in the genome, before the terminase gene.
Dysphagia as a manifestation in superior vena cava syndrome
Authors: Ortega Beltrá Noelia , Ferrero Coloma Sara María , Matías Sánchez Manuel , Pons Rocher Francisco
Published: September 2024

The differential diagnosis of dysphagia and dyspnoea with cervicofacial oedema is wide and includes diseases with variable prognosis that may require an urgent approach. This article presents the case of a middle-aged man who came to the emergency room referring to the symptoms described, with a history of central venous access established approximately 4 years ago. The patient was diagnosed with superior vena cava syndrome and treated with anticoagulants and removal of the catheter. After a week of admission with anticoagulation, the patient clinically improved with a considerable decrease in thrombus and pharyngolaryngeal and subcutaneous mucosal oedema. In the differential diagnosis of dysphagia and dyspnoea, we must also consider systemic diseases, and more specifically, these symptoms such as those described, and think about this entity because of its severity.
Giant peripheral ossifying fibroma of gingiva: a diagnostic workup
Authors: Sekizhar Vandana , Veerappan Arthy , Thirunavukarasu Sivasankari
Published: September 2024

Reactive lesions of the oral cavity are non-neoplastic proliferations occurring due to chronic irritation. Peripheral ossifying fibroma (POF) is a reactive lesion usually occurring on the interdental papilla. POF is predominantly found in the second decade of life with a definitive female predilection. This is a case report of a middle-aged male patient with gingival overgrowth in left lower back tooth region. Clinically, the lesion was asymptomatic, firm, pale pink and sessile but unusually large in size. Surgical excision of the lesion was done followed by histopathological confirmation with emphasis on the diagnosis. The case in question is interesting because of its large size and location.
Ovarian luteoma masses in pregnancy: an uncommon cause of virilisation
Authors: Stewart Isabella , Twidale Emily
Published: September 2024

Pregnancy luteoma is a benign ovarian tumour that presents during pregnancy and regresses spontaneously post partum. The mass may secrete androgenic hormones which can result in virilisation of mother and female foetus. Clinical presentation of pregnancy luteoma is varied from asymptomatic to significant virilisation. We present two cases of ovarian luteomas identified incidentally at caesarean section. The first case had marked hirsutism, while the second case had mild acne. Both foetuses were male and appeared unaffected at birth. Where maternal virilisation is identified during pregnancy, differential diagnoses including pregnancy luteoma should be considered.
Do infographics ‘spin’ the findings of health and medical research?
Authors: Muller Ryan , Ferreira Giovanni , Bejarano Geronimo , Gamble Andrew R , Kirk James , Sindone James , Zadro Joshua R
Published: September 2024

Objective

To compare the prevalence of ‘spin’, and specific reporting strategies for spin, between infographics, abstracts and full texts of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting non-significant findings in the field of health and medicine and to assess factors associated with the presence of spin.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study.

Data source

Publications in top quintile health and medical journals from August 2018 to October 2020 (Journal Citation Reports database).

Eligibility criteria

Infographics, abstracts and full texts of RCTs with non-significant results for a primary outcome.

Main outcome(s) and measure(s)

Presence of spin (any spin and spin in the results and conclusions of infographics, abstracts and full texts).

Exposure(s)

Conflicts of interest, industry sponsorship, trial registration, journal impact factor, spin in the abstract, spin in the full text.

Results

119 studies from 40 journals were included. One-third (33%) of infographics contained spin. Infographics were not more likely to contain any spin than abstracts (33% vs 26%, OR 1.4; 95% CI 0.8 to 2.4) or full texts (33% vs 26%, OR 1.4; 95% CI 0.8 to 2.4). Higher journal impact factor was associated with slightly lower odds of spin in infographics and full texts, but not abstracts. Infographics, but not abstracts or full texts, were less likely to contain spin if the trial was prospectively registered. No other significant associations were found.

Conclusions

Nearly one-third of infographics spin the findings of RCTs with non-significant results for a primary outcome, but the prevalence of spin is not higher than in abstracts and full texts. Given the increasing popularity of infographics to disseminate research findings, there is an urgent need to improve the reporting of research in infographics.
Serum amyloid A for predicting prognosis in patients with newly diagnosed Crohn’s disease
Authors: Chen Qia , Zhang Xi , Tie Yizhe , Zhang Jianwu , Huang Pinwei , Xie Yuxuan , Zhang Liqian , Tang Xueer , Zeng Zhirong , Li Li , Chen Minhu , Chen Rirong , Zhang Shenghong
Published: September 2024

Objective

Serum amyloid A (SAA) was found to be positively correlated with the activity of Crohn’s disease (CD); however, its prognostic value remains uncertain. Here, we examined its predictive ability in newly diagnosed CD and explored genetic association.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients newly diagnosed as CD at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between June 2010 and March 2022. We employed receiver operating characteristic curve, Cox proportional hazard regression models and restricted cubic splines to investigate the prognostic performance of SAA for surgery and disease progression. To assess possible causality, a two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) of published genome-wide association study data was conducted.

Results

During 2187.6 person-years (median age, 28 years, 72.4% male), 87 surgery and 153 disease progression events were documented. A 100-unit increment in SAA level generated 14% higher risk for surgery (adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.14 (1.05–1.23), p=0.001) and 12% for disease progression (1.12 (1.05–1.19), p<0.001). Baseline SAA level ≥89.2 mg/L led to significantly elevated risks for surgery (2.08 (1.31–3.28), p=0.002) and disease progression (1.72 (1.22–2.41), p=0.002). Such associations were assessed as linear. Adding SAA into a scheduled model significantly improved its predictive performances for surgery and disease progression (p for net reclassification indexes and integrated discrimination indexes <0.001). Unfortunately, no genetic causality between SAA and CD was observed in MR analysis. Sensitivity analyses showed robust results.

Conclusion

Although causality was not found, baseline SAA level was an independent predictor of surgery and disease progression in newly diagnosed CD, and had additive benefit to existing prediction models.
Prepared for the polycrisis? The need for complexity science and systems thinking to address global and national evidence gaps
Authors: Kwamie Aku , Causevic Sara , Tomson Goran , Sie Ali , Sauerborn Rainer , Rasanathan Kumanan , Ottersen Ole Petter
Published: September 2024

The Sustainable Development Goals are far off track. The convergence of global threats such as climate change, conflict and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic—among others—call for better data and research evidence that can account for the complex interactions between these threats. In the time of polycrisis, global and national-level data and research evidence must address complexity. Viewed through the lens of ‘systemic risk’, there is a need for data and research evidence that is sufficiently representative of the multiple interdependencies of global threats. Instead, current global published literature seems to be dominated by correlational, descriptive studies that are unable to account for complex interactions. The literature is geographically limited and rarely from countries facing severe polycrisis threats. As a result, country guidance fails to treat these threats interdependently. Applied systems thinking can offer more diverse research methods that are able to generate complex evidence. This is achievable through more participatory processes that will assist stakeholders in defining system boundaries and behaviours. Additionally, applied systems thinking can draw on known methods for hypothesising, modelling, visualising and testing complex system properties over time. Application is much needed for generating evidence at the global level and within national-level policy processes and structures.
What types of objective measures have been used to assess core ADHD symptoms in children and young people in naturalistic settings? A scoping review
Authors: Kelman Charlotte Rose , Thompson Coon Jo , Ukoumunne Obioha C , Moore Darren , Gudka Rebecca , Bryant Eleanor F , Russell Abigail
Published: September 2024

Objectives

We described the range and types of objective measures of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and young people (CYP) reported in research that can be applied in naturalistic settings.

Design

Scoping review using best practice methods.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, Embase, (via OVID); British Education Index, Education Resources Information Centre, Education Abstracts, Education Research Complete, Child Development and Adolescent Papers, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection (via EBSCO) were searched between 1 December 2021 and 28 February 2022.

Eligibility Criteria

Papers reported an objective measure of ADHD traits in CYP in naturalistic settings written in English.

Data extraction and synthesis

2802 papers were identified; titles and abstracts were screened by two reviewers. 454 full-text papers were obtained and screened. 128 papers were eligible and included in the review. Data were extracted by the lead author, with 10% checked by a second team member. Descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis were used.

Results

Of the 128 papers, 112 were primary studies and 16 were reviews. 87% were conducted in the USA, and only 0.8% originated from the Global South, with China as the sole representative. 83 objective measures were identified (64 observational and 19 acceleration-sensitive measures). Notably, the Behaviour Observation System for Schools (BOSS), a behavioural observation, emerged as one of the predominant measures. 59% of papers reported on aspects of the reliability of the measure (n=76). The highest inter-rater reliability was found in an unnamed measure (% agreement=1), Scope Classroom Observation Checklist (% agreement=0.989) and BOSS (% agreement=0.985). 11 papers reported on aspects of validity. 12.5% of papers reported on their method of data collection (eg, pen and paper, on an iPad). Of the 47 papers that reported observer training, 5 reported the length of time the training took ranging from 3 hours to 1 year. Despite recommendations to integrate objective measures alongside conventional assessments, use remains limited, potentially due to inconsistent psychometric properties across studies.

Conclusions

Many objective measures of ADHD have been developed and described, with the majority of these being direct behavioural observations. There is a lack of reporting of psychometric properties and guidance for researchers administering these measures in practice and in future studies. Methodological transparency is needed. Encouragingly, recent papers begin to address these issues.
Acceptability and timing considerations when administering patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) among people with chronic health conditions who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD): a qualitative study protocol
Authors: Nikolovski Jessica , Morton Rachael L. , Mercieca-Bebber Rebecca , Armstrong Matilda , Hartas Gill , Rossiter Brad , Fagan Margaret , Tinsley Melissa , Snyder Claire , Aiyegbusi Olalekan Lee , Amin-Korim Rubina , Sutherland Kim , Rutherford Claudia
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are validated and standardised questionnaires that capture patients’ own reports of their symptoms, functioning and well-being. PROMs can facilitate communication between patients and clinicians, reduce symptom burden, enhance quality of life and inform health service re-design. We aim to determine the acceptability of PROMs and the preferred timing of PROM completion in New South Wales (NSW) at the point of care, facilitated by the Health Outcomes and Patient Experiences (HOPE) platform.

Methods and analysis

Semi-structured interviews with patients (~50-75, sampling across seven language groups and seven clinical cohorts), carers (~10–20) and clinicians (~18) enrolled in HOPE will be conducted via videoconference, telephone or in person. Participants will be asked questions about (1) what makes PROMs acceptable for use in chronic disease management (2) when patients would prefer to complete PROMs and when clinicians would like to use PROMs for clinical decision-making and (3) factors that impede the acceptability of PROMs for culturally and linguistically diverse patients. Interviews will be analysed using a reflexive thematic approach, guided by Normalisation Process Theory.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee (SLHD HREC, Study Protocol #X24-0138). Results will be published in appropriate peer-reviewed journals, presented at conferences, disseminated to participants in the form of a plain language summary, and widely disseminated to consumer groups and professional stakeholders.
Incidence of anaemia and its predictors among HIV-infected children receiving highly active antiretroviral treatment in North-West Ethiopia: a multicentre retrospective follow-up study
Authors: Alemu Gebrie Getu , Tesfie Tigabu Kidie , Yayeh Azmeraw Tadele , Woleli Dessalew Abelneh , Aweke Mekuriaw Nibret
Published: September 2024

Background

Anaemia is one of the most common problems in HIV-infected patients associated with increased HIV progression, decreased functional capacity, survival and quality of life. For better interventions, up-to-date information concerning anaemia among HIV-infected children less than 5 years of age on antiretroviral therapy (ART) is vital. Thus, this study aims to determine the predictors of anaemia among HIV-infected children less than 5 years of age receiving ART in North-West Ethiopia.

Design

An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted.

Study setting

Amhara region Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, North-West Ethiopia.

Participants

In total, we examined 460 HIV-infected children less than 5 years of age who had followed highly active antiretroviral treatment from 2010 to 2020.

Outcome measures

The outcome measures were median time to detection of anaemia, the incidence and the effects of cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CPT), ART adherence, tuberculosis (TB), WHO clinical stage and wasting on anaemia.

Results

The overall follow-up time was 9234 person-months of observation. The incidence density of anaemia was 8.34 per 1000 person-months of observation (95% CI 6.67 to 10.43). The cumulative survival probability of children after the last months of follow-up was 0.54. The independent predictors of anaemia were not receiving CPT (adjusted HR (AHR)=4.44; 95% CI 2.48 to 7.93), poor adherence to ART (AHR=2.46; 95% CI 1.37 to 4.42), TB (AHR=3.40; 95% CI 1.72 to 6.72), severe WHO clinical stage (AHR=3.03; 95% CI 1.40 to 6.58) and severe wasting (AHR=1.98; 95% CI 1.08 to 3.64).

Conclusion and recommendation

The incidence rate of anaemia was high and it was provoked by predictors like CPT, ART adherence, TB, WHO clinical stage and wasting. Therefore, it is necessary to emphasise for these predictors.
Guideline concordant screening and monitoring of extrapyramidal symptoms in patients prescribed antipsychotic medication: a protocol for a systematic literature review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Aubry Rebekah , Hastings Thomas , Morgan Micheal , Hastings Jacqueline , Bolton Marie , Grummell Maura , Killeen Sinead , Coyne Cathal , Shorr Risa , Solmi Marco
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Given the increasing rates of antipsychotic use in multiple psychiatric conditions, greater attention to the assessment, monitoring and documentation of their side effects is warranted. While a significant degree of attention has been provided to metabolic side effect monitoring, comparatively little is known about how clinicians screen for, document and monitor the motor side effects of antipsychotics (ie, parkinsonism, akathisia, dystonia and dyskinesias, collectively ‘extrapyramidal side effects’, EPS). This review aims to systematically assess the literature for insights into current trends in EPS monitoring practices within various mental health settings globally.

Methods and analysis

An electronic search will be performed using the OVID Medline, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and APA PsycINFO databases for studies published in the last quarter century (1998 to present day). Two independent reviewers will conduct the initial title and abstract screenings, using predetermined criteria for inclusion and exclusion. A third reviewer will resolve disagreements if consensus cannot be reached. If selected for inclusion, full-text data extraction will then be conducted using a pilot-tested data extraction form. Quality assessment will be conducted for all included studies using a modified version of the Quality Improvement Minimum Quality Criteria Set. A narrative synthesis and summary of the data will be provided. All stages of the review process will be reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required. Findings will be peer reviewed, published and shared verbally, electronically and in print with interested clinicians and will also be presented as posters or talks at relevant medical conferences and meetings.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023482372.
Comparison of two implementation strategies for anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention in amateur girls’ youth soccer: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Suits William , Darmofal Meg , Roe Olivia , Liao Tzu-Chieh
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To compare two implementation strategies, an educational handout and a knowledge-to-action (KTA) intervention, for promoting anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevention programme (ACL-IPP) implementation in amateur youth girls’ soccer. The primary outcomes assessed include frequency of ACL-IPP implementation and ACL injury risk.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study, which followed 671 amateur female soccer players (15.72±1.78 years) whose coaches received either a KTA intervention (n=400) or an educational handout (n=271) regarding implementing an ACL-IPP. Over a single season, we tracked the number of ACL injuries weekly and implementation rates at the end of the season through surveying participating coaches. A χ2test was used to compare the ACL-IPP implementation rate between the handout and KTA intervention. Cox-hazard proportional regressions were used to examine the effect of implementation rate and educational interventions on ACL injuries.

Results

The KTA intervention yielded higher ACL-IPP implementation as compared with the educational handout (X2(1, n=671)=25.87, p<0.001). Implementation of any ACL-IPP at least two times per week was associated with a lower risk of ACL injuries (HR=0.15, 95% CI=0.03, 0.73; p=0.019) compared with implementing once per week or fewer. The KTA intervention was not associated with a significantly lower risk of ACL injuries (HR=0.39, 95% CI=0.09, 1.61; p=0.191) compared with the educational handout.

Conclusion

Stakeholder engagement in the process of planning and execution of IPPs, such as with a KTA intervention, appears beneficial for the purposes of increasing implementation rates. Since implementation was significantly associated with lower rates of ACL injuries, this process may lead to improved results in injury prevention in amateur youth soccer.
S100A9 and HMGB1 orchestrate MDSC-mediated immunosuppression in melanoma through TLR4 signaling
Authors: Özbay Kurt Feyza Gül , Cicortas Beatrice-Ana , Balzasch Bianca M , De la Torre Carolina , Ast Volker , Tavukcuoglu Ece , Ak Cagla , Wohlfeil Sebastian A , Cerwenka Adelheid , Utikal Jochen , Umansky Viktor
Published: September 2024

Background

Immunotherapies for malignant melanoma are challenged by the resistance developed in a significant proportion of patients. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), with their ability to inhibit antitumor T-cell responses, are a major contributor to immunosuppression and resistance to immune checkpoint therapies in melanoma. Damage-associated molecular patterns S100A8, S100A9, and HMGB1, acting as toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) ligands, are highly expressed in the tumor microenvironment and drive MDSC activation. However, the role of TLR4 and RAGE signaling in the acquisition of MDSC immunosuppressive properties remains to be better defined. Our study investigates how the signaling via TLR4 and RAGE as well as their ligands S100A9 and HMGB1, shape MDSC-mediated immunosuppression in melanoma.

Methods

MDSC were isolated from the peripheral blood of patients with advanced melanoma or generated in vitro from healthy donor-derived monocytes. Monocytes were treated with S100A9 or HMGB1 for 72 hours. The immunosuppressive capacity of treated monocytes was assessed in the inhibition of T-cell proliferation assay in the presence or absence of TLR4 and RAGE inhibitors. Plasma levels of S100A8/9 and HMGB1 were quantified by ELISA. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed on monocytes from patients with melanoma and healthy donors.

Results

We showed that exposure to S100A9 and HMGB1 converted healthy donor-derived monocytes into MDSC through TLR4 signaling. Our scRNA-seq data revealed in patient monocytes enriched inflammatory genes, includingS100and those involved in NF-κB and TLR4 signaling, and a reduced major histocompatibility complex II gene expression. Furthermore, elevated plasma S100A8/9 levels correlated with shorter progression-free survival in patients with melanoma.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the critical role of TLR4 and, to a lesser extent, RAGE signaling in the conversion of monocytes into MDSC-like cells, underscore the potential of targeting S100A9 to prevent this conversion, and highlight the prognostic value of S100A8/9 as a plasma biomarker in melanoma.
IgG4-related disease in the nervous system
Authors: Yang Lu , Smith R J Paul , Scolding Neil J , Rice Claire M
Published: September 2024

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently described multisystemic disorder with a spectrum of manifestations that continue to be described. Nonetheless, there are recognised distinct patterns of disease. Neurological involvement is rare, particularly in isolation, but IgG4-RD may present with orbital disease, hypophysitis or pachymeningitis. Typically, it is highly responsive to treatment. This review highlights neurological manifestations of IgG4-RD and emphasises the importance of a high index of clinical suspicion to facilitate investigation and appropriate management, avoiding irreversible tissue damage and neurological dysfunction. We present a treatment algorithm for suggested management of IgG4-RD affecting the nervous system.
Risk factors for persistent postoperative opioid use: an entity distinct from chronic postsurgical pain
Authors: Ramo Sama , Frangakis Stephan , Waljee Jennifer F , Bicket Mark C
Published: September 2024

Despite a decline in opioid prescriptions over the past decade, patients commonly receive opioid analgesics as a treatment for postoperative pain in the USA. One complication that patients may experience after surgery is persistent postoperative opioid use (PPOU), or opioid use beyond the typical recovery period. Often defined as beyond 3 months postsurgery, PPOU is frequently conflated with chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP), where pain persists well after the expected healing time following surgery. This narrative review explores the distinct risk factors for each condition, their interrelation, and potential future research directions.

For PPOU, major risk factors include the risky use of substances including misuse and use disorders; depression and other mental health disorders; a history of chronic pain before surgery including back pain; and certain surgical types (ie, total knee arthropathy, open cholecystectomy, total hip arthropathy). Conversely, CPSP risk factors include the type of surgery (ie, thoracic and breast surgeries), mental health conditions (particularly catastrophizing), and pain in both the preoperative and postoperative phases. Despite the overlap of some factors, studies typically employ different frameworks when examining PPOU and CPSP, with a biopsychosocial model applied for CPSP and little emphasis on an individual’s social environment employed for PPOU. Additionally, existing studies predominantly rely on retrospective insurance claims data, which may not capture the full scope of risk factors.

To fill gaps in understanding, investigations may prospectively assess and analyze patient-reported outcomes, implement similar frameworks, and concurrently measure both conditions to advance the scientific understanding of PPOU and CPSP.
Postoperative epidural analgesia and outcomes following pediatric bilateral lung and heart-lung transplantation: a retrospective observational study
Authors: McLaughlin Kerry , Konstantatos Alex , Karna Shravya , Azzopardi Stuart , Buckland Mark , Sivakumar Harry , Glick Ron , Astrera-Srgo Mycah , Paul Eldho
Published: September 2024

Background

The value of epidural analgesia in pediatric patients having heart and lung transplant surgery is unknown. We aimed to characterize various quality outcomes in patients who did and did not have epidural analgesia.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively for 62 patients from 2006 to 2023 at a tertiary care transplant center. Patients were evaluated by epidural status. The primary outcome was a hospital stay in days. Other measures of morbidity and mortality were measured as secondary endpoints.

Results

The mean age was 12.7 (3) years; 54 (87%) received bilateral lung transplantation, and 8 (13%) received en bloc heart-lung transplantation. 41 (66%) were female. Epidural utilization rate was 74 %, n=45. On univariate analysis, epidural analgesia compared with no epidural was associated with a reduction in the median length of hospital stay from 26.5 to 20 days (p=0.02). After adjustment for age, sex and type of operation, there was no significant difference in LOS. Other findings following univariate analysis included reduced time of postoperative ventilation with a median reduction of 7–2 days (p=0.019), and a reduced 5-day postoperative opioid requirement; median of 2.94–1.21 mg/kg/24 hours (p=0.004) with epidural analgesia. Epidural analgesia was not associated with a change in overall survival (p=0.49).

Conclusion

Despite a likely improvement in analgesia, we could not demonstrate a definitive impact of epidural analgesia on outcomes in this small cohort of patients. Larger datasets through registries and institutional collaboration will be needed to increase sample size to identify effect sizes and adjust for confounders.
Asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis is associated with increased Alzheimer’s disease and non-Alzheimer’s disease dementia risk
Authors: Vitali Francesca , Torrandell-Haro Georgina , Branigan Gregory , Arias Aristizabal Juan , Reiman Eric , Bedrick Edward J , Brinton Roberta Diaz , Weinkauf Craig
Published: September 2024

Background

In the absence of a cerebrovascular accident, whether asymptomatic extracranial carotid atherosclerotic disease (aECAD) affects Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and non-AD dementia risk is not clear. Understanding whether aECAD is associated with an increased risk for AD is important as it is present in roughly 10% of the population over 60 and could represent a modifiable risk factor for AD and non-AD dementia.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analysed Mariner insurance claims. Enrolment criteria included patients aged 55 years or older with at least 5 years of data and no initial dementia diagnosis. Subjects with and without aECAD were evaluated for subsequent AD and non-AD dementia diagnoses. Propensity score matching was performed using confounding factors identified by logistic regression. χ2tests and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to evaluate the impact of aECAD diagnosis on AD and non-AD dementia risk over time.

Results

767 354 patients met enrolment criteria. After propensity score matching, 62 963 subjects with aECAD and 62 963 subjects without ECAD were followed through data records. The aECAD cohort exhibited an increased relative risk of 1.22 (95% CI 1.15 to 1.29, p<0.001) for AD and 1.48 (95% CI 1.38 to 1.59, p<0.001) for non-AD dementias compared with the propensity score-matched cohort without aECAD. The increased AD risk associated with aECAD was evident in patients younger than 75 years old and was less apparent in patients over 75 years of age.

Conclusions

aECAD is associated with an increased risk of developing AD and non-AD dementias. These findings underscore the need for further prospective evaluation of interactions between aECAD and dementia, with potential implications for change of clinical care in both of these large patient populations.
A likelihood framework for cryogenic scintillating calorimeters used in the CRESST dark matter search
Authors:   CRESST Collaboration, Angloher G. , Banik S. , Benato G. , Bento A. , Bertolini A. , Breier R. , Bucci C. , Burkhart J. , Canonica L. , D’Addabbo A. , Lorenzo S. Di , Einfalt L. , Erb A. , Feilitzsch F. v. , Fichtinger S. , Fuchs D. , Garai A. , Ghete V. M. , Gorla P. , Guillaumon P. V. , Gupta S. , Hauff D. , Ješkovský M. , Jochum J. , Kaznacheeva M. , Kinast A. , Kluck H. , Kraus H. , Kuckuk S. , Langenkämper A. , Mancuso M. , Marini L. , Mauri B. , Meyer L. , Mokina V. , Olmi M. , Ortmann T. , Pagliarone C. , Pattavina L. , Petricca F. , Potzel W. , Povinec P. , Pröbst F. , Pucci F. , Reindl F. , Rothe J. , Schäffner K. , Schieck J. , Schmiedmayer D. , Schönert S. , Schwertner C. , Stahlberg M. , Stodolsky L. , Strandhagen C. , Strauss R. , Usherov I. , Wagner F. , Wagner V. , Zema V.
Published: September 2024

Cryogenic scintillating calorimeters are ultra- sensitive particle detectors for rare event searches, particularly for the search for dark matter and the measurement of neutrino properties. These detectors are made from scintillating target crystals generating two signals for each particle interaction. The phonon (heat) signal precisely measures the deposited energy independent of the type of interacting particle. The scintillation light signal yields particle discrimination on an event-by-event basis. This paper presents a likelihood framework modeling backgrounds and a potential dark matter signal in the two-dimensional plane spanned by phonon and scintillation light energies. We apply the framework to data from CaWO$$_4$$

4

-based detectors operated in the CRESST dark matter search. For the first time, a single likelihood framework is used in CRESST to model the data and extract results on dark matter in one step by using a profile likelihood ratio test. Our framework simultaneously fits (neutron) calibration data and physics (background) data and allows combining data from multiple detectors. Although tailored to CaWO$$_4$$

4

-targets and the CRESST experiment, the framework can easily be expanded to other materials and experiments using scintillating cryogenic calorimeters for dark matter search and neutrino physics.
Deriving the QCD evolution equations under the Abelian decomposition scheme
Authors: Yang Yirui , Kou Wei , Wang Xiaopeng , Cai Yanbing , Chen Xurong
Published: September 2024

The Abelian decomposition of QCD reveals two types of gluons: color-neutral “neurons” and color-carrying “chromons”. This classification does not alter the overall properties of QCD, but the investigation of different types of gluon dynamics is necessary. By employing the Cho–Duan–Ge decomposition theorem, we have derived dynamic evolution equations for two types of gluons by using the time-ordered perturbation theory. We propose that the new equations are compatible with the DGLAP equations, requiring only the separate contributions of neurons and chromons to be summed. Surprisingly, with the evolution to high $$Q^2$$

Q
2

, the ratio of the number of chromons to neurons is approximately 3:1 in small-x region regardless of the inputs at evolution starting point. The new gluon dynamic equations reevaluate the gluon distribution functions and allow for a elaborate investigation of the distinct contributions of gluons in high-energy collisions.
Neutrino trident scattering at the LHC energy regime
Authors: Francener Reinaldo , Gonçalves Victor P. , Gratieri Diego R.
Published: September 2024

The neutrino trident scattering process in neutrino-tungsten interactions at the LHC energy regime is investigated, and the cross-sections for different leptonic final states in coherent and incoherent interactions are estimated. Furthermore, the associated number of events at FASER$$\nu $$
ν
2 detector is estimated considering different predictions for the flux of incident neutrinos on the detector, based on distinct hadronic models for the particle production in pp collisions at ultra-forward rapidities. Our results indicate that the observation of the neutrino trident process is, in principle, feasible at the Forward Physics Facility.
The grain boundary and alloy-based system to calculate lattice thermal conductivity in InAs/GaAs multi-layered superlattices
Authors: Rauf N. A. , Omar M. S. , Abdullah Botan Jawdat , Qader Ibrahim Nazem
Published: September 2024

A geometrical approach is constructed to explain the dependence of lattice thermal conductivity (LTC) in InAs/GaAs multi-layered superlattice structures (SLs). The Morelli–Callaway model is applied to calculate the LTC of InAs/GaAs SLs with the assumption of InAs+GaAs thickness as a grain boundary and the total layer thickness as the sample size. Calculations gave a systematically conventional temperature dependence of LTC for nine different samples depending on their number of layers and the InAs and GaAs layer thicknesses having their ratio from 0.13 to 0.295. The dependence of LTC for both peak values at the low and room temperature were examined according to sample size, number of layers and layer thickness ratio. A new relation is examined for the assessment of the grain boundary effects. The best dependence of LTC was obtained by introducing the effects of the layer thickness ratio (InAs/GaAs) and the sample size D in the form [D/(InAs/GaAs)] which gave a systematic mathematical fitting equation.
Jump Resonance in the Discrete-Time Chua’s Circuit
Authors: Buscarino Arturo , Famoso Carlo , Fortuna Luigi , Garozzo Enrico
Published: September 2024

Chua’s circuit represents a paradigm for nonlinear dynamics and chaos in electronic circuits. In this paper, its discrete-time counterpart is considered showing the occurrence of nonlinear resonance when driven by an external sinusoidal input. Evidences of jump resonance are revealed from several regions of the parameter space. An approach based on quasi-analytic methods, numerical simulations and several experiments with digital microprocessors is presented, further confirming the richness of Chua’s circuit dynamical behavior. The high selectivity of the jump resonance observed from the discrete-time Chua’s circuit paves the way for the implementation of low-cost high-resolution frequency drift sensing devices.
Code Recommendation for Schema Evolution of Mimic Storage Systems
Authors: Kong Xianglong , Lv Zhuo , Chen Cen , Chang Hao , Li Nuannuan , Zhang Fan
Published: September 2024

Schema evolution of mimic storage systems is a time-consuming and error-prone task due to the redundant development of heterogeneous executors. The ORM-based proxy requires an entire class to represent the structure of a data table. There lacks domain-specific code recommendation techniques to boost storage development. To address this issue, we design a novel type of code context, i.e. schema context, that combines features of code text, syntax and structure. Regarding the requirements of class-level granularity, we focus on behavior and attribute in code syntax, and use element position and structural metrics to mine the hidden relationships. Based on schema context and an existing inference mode, we propose SchemaRec to recommend ORM-related class for the database executors once one of them has been changed. We conduct experiments with 110 open-source projects, and the results show that SchemaRec obtains more accurate results than Lucene, DeepCS, QobCS and SEA in terms of Top-1, Top-10 and MRR accuracy due to the better ability of context representation. We also find that code syntax is the most important information because it involves behavior and attribute information of ORM-related classes.
Acquiring Strategic Management Knowledge in Open Organisations: An Importance-Performance Analysis
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad Milad , Mohtadi Mohammad Mahdi
Published: September 2024

This research aims to analyse the factors that contribute to strategic management knowledge acquisition in open organizations using importance-performance analysis (IPA). To conduct this research, an educational research institution with open system characteristics was selected as the case study. A qualitative questionnaire was developed to gather data on strategic management knowledge acquisition factors. Based on the analysis of the data collected, 48 main factors of strategic management knowledge acquisition in open organizations were identified. These factors were categorised into four strategic ranges: “focus,” “continue,” “low priority” and “waste”. The findings provide valuable insights into the factors that contribute to strategic management knowledge acquisition in open organizations. By understanding the importance and performance of these factors, organizations can prioritise their efforts and allocate resources effectively to improve their knowledge acquisition processes. Additionally, 20 executive proposals were presented as recommendations for open organizations seeking to enhance their knowledge acquisition practices.
Improving drug–target interaction prediction through dual-modality fusion with InteractNet
Authors: Zhu Baozhong , Zhang Runhua , Jiang Tengsheng , Cui Zhiming , Chen Jing , Wu Hongjie
Published: September 2024

In the drug discovery process, accurate prediction of drug–target interactions is crucial to accelerate the development of new drugs. However, existing methods still face many challenges in dealing with complex biomolecular interactions. To this end, we propose a new deep learning framework that combines the structural information and sequence features of proteins to provide comprehensive feature representation through bimodal fusion. This framework not only integrates the topological adaptive graph convolutional network and multi-head attention mechanism, but also introduces a self-masked attention mechanism to ensure that each protein binding site can focus on its own unique features and its interaction with the ligand. Experimental results on multiple public datasets show that our method significantly outperforms traditional machine learning and graph neural network methods in predictive performance. In addition, our method can effectively identify and explain key molecular interactions, providing new insights into understanding the complex relationship between drugs and targets.
Recent research progress on Li29Zr9Nb3O40-based solid electrolytes for lithium batteries
Authors: Lin Haiqin , Zhao Jie , Shen Jiangwei , Zhang Yudong , Cui Can , Song Xin , Huang Saifang
Published: September 2024

All-solid-state batteries have become a research hotspot because of their high specific capacity and safety. Solid-state electrolytes are the key material of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries, and their properties directly affect the overall performance of lithium-ion batteries. So far, many inorganic solid electrolytes have been reported, such as NASICON, LISICON, perovskite, and garnet-type solid electrolyte. However, some lithium-rich rock salt-structured electrolytes, such as Li2ZrO3, LiNbO4, and Li6Zr2O7, have been underappreciated in the field of solid-state electrolytes due to their lower ionic conductivity at room temperature. While investigating solid solution formation, Li6Zr[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Nb[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text], a new phase known as [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text] with a rock-salt structure was discovered. After decades, it was not until a team prepared [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text] ceramics by sol-gel method, which exhibited high ionic conductivity (10[Formula: see text]–10[Formula: see text]S cm[Formula: see text]) at room temperature, that the substance showed great potential as a solid electrolyte in all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries. In this paper, the crystal structure, lithium-ion transport mechanism, preparation method, and element doping of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text] are described comprehensively based on research progress in recent years. Then, development prospects and challenges of the concrete application of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text] in all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries are also discussed.
Innovative Approach of High-Throughput Screening in the Drug Discovery Quest for Chronic Bronchitis Treatment
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Javed Khushbakht , Aziz Tariq , Zafar Ali , Fatima Mahnoor , Rehman Hafiz Muzzammel , Khan Ayaz Ali , Alamri Abdulhakeem S. , Alsanie Walaa F. , Alhomrani Majid
Published: September 2024

Chronic bronchitis (CB) is a challenging condition that worsens over time. Patients continue to experience an abundance of symptoms despite their best attempts to manage them. The etiology of CB is goblet cell overproduction and mucus hypersecretion, which aggravates airflow obstruction by luminal blockage of small airways, epithelial remodeling and modification of airway surface tension that predisposes to collapse. Larger randomized controlled trials are required to validate the pilot data that are currently accessible and assess the treatment’s durability as therapies are still in the early stages of clinical development. To overcome the prevailing increase in CB with the rise in air pollution globally, this study proposes a de novo drug discovery candidate for the effective treatment of CB. With the aid of cutting-edge technology of high-throughput screening, a phytochemical, apigenin, has been administered to target the Beta-2 adrenergic receptor protein and utilized as an exemplary ligand to target the discovery of a suitable drug candidate for Beta-2 adrenergic receptor protein. The drug likeness scores, no evident toxicity and binding affinity −9.092 kcal/mol the “CHEMBL294878” proves to be a potential drug candidate discovered for CB. A therapeutic drug specifically meant to treat CB can be developed with the help of the computational data provided by the research presented in this study.
CO2- tolerant CuFe2O4 as Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Transition from Rechargeable Li-O2 to Li-CO2 Batteries
Authors: Pamangadan C. Sharafudeen , Patra Snehangshu , Perumal Elumalai
Published: September 2024

CO2-tolerant rechargeable Lithium-Air batteries are seen as a high-performing alternative to Li-ion batteries. They utilize O2 from the air, reducing it at the cathode to form lithium peroxide (Li2O2) during discharge which is then oxidized to form lithium-metal and freeing O2 during charging. Most of the present studies involve pure O2 as the cathode material instead of aerial O2, which has a stiff-challenge due to atmospheric CO2 which produces Li2CO3 during discharge, posing a resistive load on the battery if not re-oxidized on charging. Ideally, presence of CO2 should enhance the charge-storage capacity if it is cycled reversibly. Thus, present research aims at taking advantage of both O2 and CO2 by employing metallic Cu on CuFe2O4 catalyst, synthesized from a one-step auto-combustion route. The Cu metal present in the catalyst leads to a low surface-area, yet the catalyst demonstrates excellent oxygen reduction reaction and moderate oxygen evolution reaction activity. excellent CO2 reduction reaction activity, oxidizing both the Li2O2 and the Li2CO3 during charge in both 10% CO2 and 100% CO2 atmospheres. The fabricated Li-CO2 battery operates for practical application, suggesting the suitability of the catalyst for the transition from practical Li-O2 battery to Li-Air battery.