bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Pathogenicity and Genetic Characteristics of a Live‐Attenuated Classical Swine Fever Virus Vaccine Derivative Variant
Authors: Guo Zhenhua , Xing Guangxu , Wang Leyi , Jin Qianyue , Lu Qingxia , Zhang Gaiping
Published: April 2024

Classical swine fever (CSF), caused by CSF virus (CSFV), is a highly contagious disease affecting pigs and causing massive pig production losses with severe global economic recession. The immunization of live‐attenuated vaccines is still one of the key measures to CSFV management in endemic countries. However, there are also strong controversies about the usage of live‐attenuated vaccines, particularly in pregnant sows and young pigs, such as in Europe, where domestic pigs are routinely not vaccinated until severe outbreaks occur. Here, we report a CSF outbreak in a pig farm in China, which affected more than 90% of the delivery sows and led to ∼45% birth loss. Surprisingly, phylogenetic analysis showed that the CSFV isolate (named CSFV/HeNLY2022, GenBank No. OR195698) was clustered into subgenotype 1.1a, closely together with the live‐attenuated vaccine strains. Further genomic analysis also revealed that the isolate CSFV/HeNLY2022 shared the highest nucleotide identity of 99.7% with the C/HVRI vaccine strain (C‐strain, GenBank No. AY805221). Moreover, compared to the C/HVRI strain, a total of eight amino acid mutations, distributed in Erns (H436thY and S476thR), E1 (T502thI and P581thT), E2 (M979thK and A1061thS), NS5A (A2980thT), and NS5B (I3818thM), were characterized in the CSFV/HeNLY2022 isolate. Our results suggested that the CSF outbreak was most likely caused by the live‐attenuated CSFV vaccine or its derivative. It raises concern that the unscientific application of CSFV vaccines could potentially lead to CSFV spread in pigs. It is needed to perform a more rigorous evaluation of the safety of the C‐strain‐derived vaccines in combination with other different live‐attenuated vaccines.
A Case of Anorexia Nervosa with Focal Cortical Dysplasia
Authors: Nemoto Hiroki , Imagawa Kazuo , Enokizono Takashi , Masuda Yosuke , Ide Masayuki , Deguchi Takuma , Hara Monami , Morita Atsushi , Kido Takahiro , Tanaka Mai , Ohto Tatsuyuki , Takada Hidetoshi
Published: April 2024

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a fatal condition associated with extreme underweight and undernutrition. It is more common in young females, with a female-to-male ratio of 10 : 1. Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is characterized by dysplasia of the cerebral cortex and is a common cause of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. However, FCD associated with AN has never been reported. We report the first case of AN in a 12-year-old male diagnosed with FCD-type 2 on head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). He became concerned about lower abdominal distention and began reducing his food intake. He was admitted to our hospital after weight loss of 10 kg in a 1 year. Head MRI showed a localized high-signal area from the cortex to the white matter of the fusiform gyrus near the left hippocampus, with no associated decreased blood flow or electroencephalography (EEG) abnormalities. These findings were characteristic of FCD type II. In males with AN, the search for underlying disease is particularly important. The pathophysiology of the association between AN and FCD is unclear. However, both conditions are reportedly associated with autism spectrum disorder. Further cases are needed to clarify whether FCD is associated with eating disorders.
Intragastric Botulinum Toxin Injection and Botulism: An Alarm for Clinicians
Authors: Mojtahedzadeh Mojtaba , Najmeddin Farhad , Pourheidar Elham , Najafi Atabak , Bahman Reza , Yousefi-Mazhin Ehsan , Karballaei-Mirzahosseini Hossein , Hassanpour Rezvan
Published: April 2024

Clostridium botulinum produces the most potent bacterial toxin, botulinum toxin A (BTXA), which has various therapeutic and cosmetic indications. Intragastric BTXA injection is a new obesity treatment method that was argued to be safe due to the inactivation of BTXA through the liver or metabolization within the gastric wall. However, a 36‐year‐old woman was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to developing botulism as a result of an intragastric injection of BTXA. The diplopia, headaches, ptosis, decreased muscle force, and respiratory distress two days after injection were her first chief complaints, and also, she experienced significant dysphagia, hoarse voice, thick tongue, constipation, hyposmia, and hypogeusia after two weeks. This case report highlights the necessity for physicians to have sufficient information about this method and consider possible life‐threatening adverse effects including botulism.
Complications during Adolescence Predict Mortality in Young Adults with Childhood Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Poon Myra S. , Chan Albert K. F. , Cusumano Janine M. , Craig Maria E. , Donaghue Kim C.
Published: April 2024

Objective. Microvascular complications increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death in adults with type 1 diabetes. We examined the association between microvascular complications during adolescence, including cardiac autonomic nerve dysfunction and subsequent mortality. Research Design and Methods. We undertook data linkage with the Australian National Death Index in a cohort of 409 adolescents (diagnosed between 1973 and 1993), 48% male, median age at final complications assessment 17.4 years (interquartile range: 16.0–18.9), followed longitudinally for median 22.3 years (21.0–23.4) from diagnosis. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to examine associations between mortality and adolescent complications. Mortality risk was calculated as standardized mortality ratio (SMR). Results. At final adolescent visit, 20% had CAN abnormality, 30% abnormal pupillary response, 20% albuminuria, 40% early elevation of albumin excretion rate (AER) and 45% retinopathy. Data linkage 8–13 years later showed 14 were deceased (3% of cohort), 57% male, median age 28.3 years (24.8–32.9). Acute or chronic diabetes complications accounted for 25% of deaths. In multivariable GEE, elevated AER (OR 4.54, 1.23–16.80, p=0.030), pupillary abnormality (OR 4.27, 1.20–15.22, p=0.023), systolic blood pressure SDS (OR 2.17, 1.26–3.74, p=0.005) and CAN (OR 4.65, 1.03–21.0, p=0.045) predicted mortality. HbA1c was not significant. SMR was 2.5 (1.4–4.2) and was higher in females (SMR 3.5, 1.3–7.8) but not in males (SMR 2.1, 0.9–4.0). Conclusion. Mortality in young adults with type 1 diabetes is predicted by subclinical markers of autonomic neuropathy and elevated AER during adolescence, but not glycemia. Mortality was over twice that of the background population in females but not in males.
Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex Suppression: Clinical Relevance and Assessment in the Digital Age
Authors: Nerdal Patrik Theodor , Gandor Florin , Friedrich Maximilian Uwe , Schappe Laurin , Ebersbach Georg , Maetzler Walter
Published: April 2024

Background: Visual acuity and image stability are crucial for daily activities, particularly during head motion. The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and its suppression (VORS) support stable fixation of objects of interest. The VOR drives a reflexive eye movement to counter retinal slip of a stable target during head motion. In contrast, VORS inhibits this countermovement when the target stimulus is in motion. The VORS allows for object fixation when it aligns with the direction of the head’s movement, or when an object within or outside the peripheral vision needs to be focused upon. Summary: Deficits of the VORS have been linked to age-related diseases such as balance deficits associated with an increased fall risk. Therefore, the accurate assessment of the VORS is of particular clinical relevance. However, current clinical assessment methods for VORS are mainly qualitative and not sufficiently standardised. Recent advances in digital health technology, such as smartphone-based videooculography, offer a promising alternative for assessing VORS in a more accessible, efficient, and quantitative manner. Moreover, integrating mobile eye-tracking technology with virtual reality environments allows for the implementation of controlled VORS assessments with different visual inputs. These assessment approaches allow the extraction of novel parameters with potential pathomechanistic and clinical relevance. Key Messages: We argue that researchers and clinicians can obtain a more nuanced understanding of this ocular stabilisation reflex and its associated pathologies by harnessing digital health technology for VORS assessment. Further research is warranted to explore the technologies’ full potential and utility in clinical practice.
Treatment of Failure of Macular Hole Closure due to Post-Vitrectomy Macular Edema Using Sub-Tenon Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection: A Case Report
Authors: Haraguchi Aiko , Wakuta Makiko , Ariyoshi Nobuaki , Funatsu Masahiko , Wasai Yuki , Ohta Manami , Ogata Tadahiko , Higashijima Fumiaki , Kimura Kazuhiro
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Post-vitrectomy cystoid macular edema (CME) can lead to failure of macular hole (MH) closure. We report 2 cases of failure of MH closure due to post-vitrectomy CME, which were successfully treated using sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide (STTA) injection. Case Presentations: Case 1 involved a 72-year-old male patient with a Gass Stage 3 MH in the right eye. He underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), internal limiting membrane translocation, and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas injection with cataract surgery in his right eye. The MH did not close postoperatively; further, CME developed at the edge of the MH. Accordingly, the patient underwent an STTA injection. Approximately 2 weeks after the STTA injection, the CME disappeared and the MH closed, which has remained closed 1 year after PPV. Case 2 involved a 78-year-old female patient with Gass Stage 3 MH in the left eye. The patient underwent the same surgical procedure as that performed in case 1. Further, she presented with failure of MH closure caused by CME; therefore, an STTA injection was performed. Approximately 6 weeks after STTA injection, the CME disappeared and the MH closed; further, there was maintained improvement of best-corrected visual acuity for 6 months. Conclusions: STTA injection could be considered before reoperation in cases involving failure of MH closure due to postoperative CME.
Literatura policial - uma abordagem panorâmica
Authors: Reimão Sandra
Published: April 2024

This paper is divided into two parts: in part I we address the origins and characteristics of the detective fiction literature and in part II we address detective fiction literature written by Brazilians. In each of these parts, there are three subdivisions organized as follows: Edgar Allan Poe and the birth of the detective genre; Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot; On the detective fiction noir (part I); Around the Brazilian detective; Brazil: on crime and guilt; The expansion of Brazilian detective fiction literature in the XXIst century (part II).
Conto de fadas: origens, conceitos e reflexões sobre o gênero
Authors: Valenzuela Sandra Trabucco
Published: April 2024

This article examines the fairy tale genre, beginning with an analysis of the marvelous tale based on Todorov’s framework, and subsequently addressing the enchanting dimension through the perspectives of Benjamin, Lüthi, Chiampi, Jolles, Coelho, Volobuef, and Valenzuela. The investigation continues by exploring the origins of fairy tales, identifying in primordial narratives and Celtic myths sources for the development of stories that depict the intervention of female beings, mediating relationships between two worlds: the natural and the supernatural. Finally, the article concludes with a reflection on the role of fairy tales in contemporary times, drawing insights from Tatar, Machado, Estés, and Carter.
Notas sobre a distopia literária moderna
Authors: Chauvin Jean Pierre
Published: April 2024

Neste artigo, discutem-se algumas dentre as principais características da distopia literária. O objetivo inicial é mostrar que as narrativas desse gênero não estão necessariamente subordinadas à ficção científ ica. Para ilustrar as especificidades da distopia, recorre-se a obras estrangeiras publicadas a partir da década de 1920 e àquelas publicadas a partir dos anos de 1960, no Brasil.
Gótico: o medo e o pessimismo como propulsores da criação literária
Authors: Nestarez Oscar
Published: April 2024

O presente texto pretende esquadrinhar a expressão literária do gótico a partir de suas origens, no século XVIII, tendo em vista duas perspectivas: o fenômeno histórico, cultural e artístico que, a partir daquele momento e ao longo do século seguinte, transbordou das letras para outras áreas de conhecimento; e o gótico como poética, a qual, após o esgotamento de fórmulas e temas estabelecidos ao longo do período mencionado, passou a fornecer a moldura narrativa ideal para histórias ancoradas no medo e no pessimismo – emoções que inevitavelmente resultam da experiência humana neste mundo.
No rastro da meia-noite: moldura e paródia do gótico em Pinheiro Chagas
Authors: Felipe Cleber Vinicius do Amaral
Published: April 2024

O artigo analisa a obra A lenda da meia-noite (1874) e a maneira como o letrado português Manuel Pinheiro Chagas recorreu à técnica da moldura com o propósito de parodiar tópicas e dispositivos do gênero gótico.
Juridicização e judicialização da saúde pelo Ministério Público de Minas Gerais entre 2016 e 2020
Authors: Oliveira Luciano Moreira de , Diniz Maria Gabriela Araújo , Cardoso Eluciana Íris Almeida , Ramos Karina Alves
Published: April 2024

O Ministério Público, com a promulgação da Constituição de 1988, consolidou-se como instituição à qual foi atribuído o papel de zelar para que os poderes públicos e os serviços de relevância pública respeitem os direitos assegurados constitucionalmente. Desse papel decorre a estreita ligação entre a atuação do Ministério Público e a defesa da saúde como direito e do Sistema Único de Saúde. Nessa atuação, identificam-se dois tipos ideais: o modelo de atuação demandista e o modelo resolutivo, sendo que neste se prioriza a tentativa de solução extrajudicial dos conflitos, característico da juridicização da saúde. Este trabalho pretendeu contribuir para os estudos da juridicização da saúde e, ademais, para a compreensão da tutela do direito à saúde exercida pelo Ministério Público. Para tanto, foi realizada análise dos dados referentes aos procedimentos registrados entre 1º de janeiro de 2016 e 31 de dezembro de 2020 pelos membros do Ministério Público do Estado de Minas Gerais no Sistema de Registros Único. Constatou-se que a forma predominante de atuação do Ministério Público de Minas Gerais corresponde ao modelo resolutivo, vez que somente cerca de 10% dos procedimentos encerrados tiveram como desfecho o ajuizamento de ação judicial. A análise mostrou, ainda, a classificação por temas e por tipo de procedimento, conduzindo à interpretação de que prevalece um trabalho mais reativo às demandas trazidas às Promotorias de Justiça, em detrimento da apreciação de temas e de políticas públicas coletivos e estruturantes do Sistema Único de Saúde.
Visual Estimates of Coronary Slow Flow Are Not Associated With Invasive Wire-Based Diagnoses of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Harkin Kenneth L. , Loftspring Ethan , Beaty William , Joa Amanda , Serrano-Gomez Claudia , Farid Ayman , Hausvater Anaïs , Reynolds Harmony R. , Smilowitz Nathaniel R.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Coronary slow flow (CSF) by invasive coronary angiography is frequently understood to be an indicator of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) in patients with ischemia with nonobstructive coronary arteries. However, the relationship between visual estimates of CSF and quantitative wire-based invasive diagnosis of CMD is uncertain.

METHODS:

We prospectively enrolled adults aged ≥18 years with stable ischemic heart disease who were referred for invasive coronary angiography. Individuals with ≥50% epicardial coronary artery stenosis were excluded. Invasive coronary angiography was reviewed for CSF, defined as ≥3 cardiac cycles to opacify distal vessels with contrast. Coronary function testing was performed in the left anterior descending coronary artery using bolus coronary thermodilution techniques to measure coronary flow reserve (CFR) and the index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR). Invasively determined CMD was defined as abnormal CFR (<2.5), abnormal IMR (≥25), or both.

RESULTS:

Among 104 participants, the median age was 61.5 years and 79% were female. The median CFR was 3.6 (interquartile range, 2.5–4.7) and the median IMR was 21 (interquartile range, 13.3–28.0). Overall, 24.0% of participants had abnormal CFR, 34.6% had abnormal IMR, and 48.1% had a final diagnosis of invasively determined CMD. CSF was present in 23 participants (22.1%). The proportions of patients with CMD (56.5% versus 45.7%;
P
=0.36), abnormal CFR (17.4% versus 25.9%;
P
=0.40), and abnormal IMR (43.5% versus 32.1%;
P
=0.31) were not different in patients with versus without CSF.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among patients with ischemia with nonobstructive coronary artery, CSF was not associated with abnormal CFR, IMR, or either abnormal CFR or IMR. CSF is not a reliable angiographic surrogate of abnormal CFR or IMR as determined by invasive, wire-based physiology testing.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03537586.
Randomized Evaluation of a Remote Management Program to Improve Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy: The DRIVE Trial
Authors: Blood Alexander J. , Chang Lee-Shing , Hassan Shahzad , Chasse Jacqueline , Stern Gretchen , Gabovitch Daniel , Zelle David , Colling Caitlin , Aronson Samuel J. , Figueroa Christian , Collins Emma , Ruggiero Ryan , Zacherle Emily , Noone Joshua , Robar Carey , Plutzky Jorge , Gaziano Thomas A. , Cannon Christopher P. , Wexler Deborah J. , Scirica Benjamin M.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Several SGLT2i (sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors) and GLP1-RA (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) reduce cardiovascular events and improve kidney outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes; however, utilization remains low despite guideline recommendations.

METHODS:

A randomized, remote implementation trial in the Mass General Brigham network enrolled patients with type 2 diabetes with increased cardiovascular or kidney risk. Patients eligible for, but not prescribed, SGLT2i or GLP1-RA were randomly assigned to simultaneous virtual patient education with concurrent prescription of SGLT2i or GLP1-RA (ie, Simultaneous) or 2 months of virtual education followed by medication prescription (ie, Education-First) delivered by a multidisciplinary team driven by nonlicensed navigators and clinical pharmacists who prescribed SGLT2i or GLP1-RA using a standardized treatment algorithm. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with prescriptions for either SGLT2i or GLP1-RA by 6 months.

RESULTS:

Between March 2021 and December 2022, 200 patients were randomized. The mean age was 66.5 years; 36.5% were female, and 22.0% were non-White. Overall, 30.0% had cardiovascular disease, 5.0% had cerebrovascular disease, and 1.5% had both. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 77.9 mL/(min‧1.73 m
2
), and mean urine/albumin creatinine ratio was 88.6 mg/g. After 2 months, 69 of 200 (34.5%) patients received a new prescription for either SGLT2i or GLP1-RA: 53.4% of patients in the Simultaneous arm and 8.3% of patients in the Education-First arm (
P
<0.001). After 6 months, 128 of 200 (64.0%) received a new prescription: 69.8% of patients in the Simultaneous arm and 56.0% of patients in Education-First (
P
<0.001). Patient self-report of taking SGLT2i or GLP1-RA within 6 months of trial entry was similarly greater in the Simultaneous versus Education-First arm (69 of 116 [59.5%] versus 37 of 84 [44.0%];
P
<0.001) Median time to first prescription was 24 (interquartile range [IQR], 13–50) versus 85 days (IQR, 65–106), respectively (
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this randomized trial, a remote, team-based program identifies patients with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular or kidney risk, provides virtual education, prescribes SGLT2i or GLP1-RA, and improves guideline-directed medical therapy. These findings support greater utilization of virtual team-based approaches to optimize chronic disease management.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT06046560.
Effect of Gamification, Financial Incentives, or Both to Increase Physical Activity Among Patients at High Risk of Cardiovascular Events: The BE ACTIVE Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fanaroff Alexander C. , Patel Mitesh S. , Chokshi Neel , Coratti Samantha , Farraday David , Norton Laurie , Rareshide Charles , Zhu Jingsan , Klaiman Tamar , Szymczak Julia E. , Russell Louise B. , Small Dylan S. , Volpp Kevin G.M.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Physical activity is associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, but few individuals achieve guideline-recommended levels of physical activity. Strategies informed by behavioral economics increase physical activity, but their longer-term effectiveness is uncertain. We sought to determine the effect of behaviorally designed gamification, loss-framed financial incentives, or their combination on physical activity compared with attention control over 12-month intervention and 6-month postintervention follow-up periods.

METHODS:

Between May 2019 and January 2024, participants with clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or a 10-year risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death of ≥7.5% by the Pooled Cohort equation were enrolled in a pragmatic randomized clinical trial. Participants received a wearable device to track daily steps, established a baseline, selected a step goal increase, and were randomly assigned to control (n=151), behaviorally designed gamification (n=304), loss-framed financial incentives (n=302), or gamification+financial incentives (n=305). The primary outcome of the trial was the change in mean daily steps from baseline through the 12-month intervention period.

RESULTS:

A total of 1062 patients (mean±SD age, 67±8; 61% female; 31% non-White) were enrolled. Compared with control subjects, participants had significantly greater increases in mean daily steps from baseline during the 12-month intervention in the gamification arm (adjusted difference, 538.0 [95% CI, 186.2–889.9];
P
=0.0027), financial incentives arm (adjusted difference, 491.8 [95% CI, 139.6–844.1];
P
=0.0062), and gamification+financial incentives arm (adjusted difference, 868.0 [95% CI, 516.3–1219.7];
P
<0.0001). During the 6-month follow-up, physical activity remained significantly greater in the gamification+financial incentives arm than in the control arm (adjusted difference, 576.2 [95% CI, 198.5–954];
P
=0.0028), but it was not significantly greater in the gamification (adjusted difference, 459.8 [95% CI, 82.0–837.6];
P
=0.0171) or financial incentives (adjusted difference, 327.9 [95% CI, −50.2 to 706];
P
=0.09) arms after adjustment for multiple comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS:

Behaviorally designed gamification, loss-framed financial incentives, and the combination of both increased physical activity compared with control over a 12-month intervention period, with the largest effect in gamification+financial incentives. These interventions could be a useful component of strategies to reduce cardiovascular risk in high-risk patients.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT03911141.
Reversion of the Inflammatory Markers in Patients With Chronic Limb‐Threatening Ischemia
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Roque Susana , Lima Carneiro Alexandre , Longatto‐Filho Adhemar , Vila Isabel , Cunha Cristina , Silva Cristina , Mesquita Amílcar , Cotter Jorge , Correia‐Neves Margarida , Mansilha Armando , Cunha Pedro Guimarães
Published: April 2024

Background

Peripheral artery disease is characterized by an intense inflammatory process that can be associated with a higher mortality rate, particularly in chronic limb‐threatening ischemia (CLTI). This study aims to compare the evolution of inflammatory markers between patients with claudication with those with CLTI at 3, 6, and 12 months.

Methods and Results

An observational, single‐center, and prospective study was conducted. A total of 119 patients with peripheral artery disease (65 with claudication and 54 with CLTI) were observed and inflammatory markers collected at admission and 3, 6, and 12 months. At admission, patients with CLTI, when compared with patients with claudication, had significantly higher serum levels of C‐reactive protein and fibrinogen (positive acute‐phase proteins) and lower serum level of albumin, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein (negative acute‐phase proteins): C‐reactive protein (g/dL), 2.90 (25th–75th percentile, 2.90–4.90) versus 6.80 (25th–75th percentile, 2.90–53.26) (
P
=0.000); fibrinogen (mg/dL), 293.00 (25th–75th percentile, 269.25–349.00) versus 415.50 (25th–75th percentile, 312.00–615.75) (
P
=0.000); total cholesterol (mg/dL), 161.79±95% [152.74–170.85] versus 146.42%±95% [135.30–157.53] (
P
=0.034); high‐density lipoprotein (mg/dL), 50.00 (25th–75th percentile, 41.00–60.00) versus 37.00 (25th–75th percentile, 30.00–45.50) (
P
=0.000); albumin (g/dL): 4.00 (25th–75th percentile, 3.70–4.20) versus 3.60 (25th–75th percentile, 3.10–4.00) (
P
=0.003). The association between CLTI and total cholesterol was lost after adjusting for confounders. Three months after the resolution of the CLTI, there was an increase in the levels of negative acute‐phase proteins and a decrease in positive acute‐phase proteins. These inflammatory proteins did not register an evolution in patients with claudication. The differences in the inflammatory proteins between groups disappeared at 6 months.

Conclusions

CLTI has an inflammatory environment that can be partially reverted after resolution of the ischemic process, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.
Anticoagulation for Patients With Concomitant Atrial Fibrillation and End‐Stage Renal Disease: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kao Ting‐Wei , Chen Zheng‐Wei , Lin Yen‐Hung
Published: April 2024

Background

Concomitant atrial fibrillation and end‐stage renal disease is common and associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Although oral anticoagulants have been well established to prevent thromboembolism, the applicability in patients under long‐term dialysis remains debatable. The study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of anticoagulation in the dialysis‐dependent population.

Methods and Results

An updated network meta‐analysis based on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed. Studies published up to December 2022 were included. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban 2.5/5 mg twice daily), vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), and no anticoagulation were compared on safety and efficacy outcomes. The outcomes of interest were major bleeding, thromboembolism, and all‐cause death. A total of 42 studies, including 3 randomized controlled trials, with 185 864 subjects were pooled. VKAs were associated with a significantly higher risk of major bleeding than either no anticoagulation (hazard ratio [HR], 1.47; 95% CI, 1.34–1.61) or DOACs (DOACs versus VKAs; HR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.64–0.84]). For the prevention of thromboembolism, the efficacies of VKAs, DOACs, and no anticoagulation were equivalent. Nevertheless, dabigatran and rivaroxaban were associated with fewer embolic events. There were no differences in all‐cause death with the administration of VKAs, DOACs, or no anticoagulation.

Conclusions

For dialysis‐dependent populations, dabigatran and rivaroxaban were associated with better efficacy, while dabigatran and apixaban demonstrated better safety. No anticoagulation was a noninferior alterative, and VKAs were associated with the worst outcomes.
Conflicts of Interest Among Cardiology Clinical Practice Guideline Authors in Japan
Authors: Murayama Anju , Aizawa Megumi , Byreddy Keerthana R. , Higuchi Kenichi , Senoo Yuki
Published: April 2024

Background

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) offer disease management recommendations based on scientific evidence. However, financial conflicts of interest between CPG developers and the pharmaceutical industry could bias these recommendations, potentially affecting patient care. Proper management of these conflicts of interest is particularly crucial for maintaining the integrity of CPGs. The study aimed to evaluate the extent of financial relationships between the pharmaceutical industry and authors of CPGs for cardiovascular diseases in Japan.

Methods and Results

The study analyzed personal payments from the pharmaceutical industry to authors of cardiovascular disease CPGs published by the Japanese Circulation Society from January 2015 to December 2022. Payment data, including speaking, consultancy, and writing fees from 2016 to 2020, were extracted from a publicly available database containing personal payments disclosed by all major pharmaceutical companies. A total of 929 unique authors from 37 eligible Japanese Circulation Society CPGs were identified. Notably, 94.4% of these authors received personal payments from pharmaceutical companies, totaling >US $70.8 million. The mean±SD payment per author was US $76 314±138 663) and the median payment per author was US $20 792 (interquartile range: US $4262–US $76 998) over the 5‐year period. Chairs of CPGs received significantly higher payments than other authors. More than 80% of authors in each CPG received personal payments.

Conclusions

The study elucidated that there were considerable financial relationships between pharmaceutical companies and cardiology CPG authors in Japan. This finding deviates from international conflict of interest management policies, suggesting the need for more stringent conflict of interest management strategies by the Japanese Circulation Society to ensure the development of trustworthy and evidence‐based CPGs.
Large Language Models Enable Few-Shot Clustering
Authors: Viswanathan Vijay , Gashteovski Kiril , Gashteovski Kiril , Lawrence Carolin , Wu Tongshuang , Neubig Graham
Published: April 2024

Unlike traditional unsupervised clustering, semi-supervised clustering allows users to provide meaningful structure to the data, which helps the clustering algorithm to match the user’s intent. Existing approaches to semi-supervised clustering require a significant amount of feedback from an expert to improve the clusters. In this paper, we ask whether a large language model (LLM) can amplify an expert’s guidance to enable query-efficient, few-shot semi-supervised text clustering. We show that LLMs are surprisingly effective at improving clustering. We explore three stages where LLMs can be incorporated into clustering: before clustering (improving input features), during clustering (by providing constraints to the clusterer), and after clustering (using LLMs post-correction). We find that incorporating LLMs in the first two stages routinely provides significant improvements in cluster quality, and that LLMs enable a user to make trade-offs between cost and accuracy to produce desired clusters. We release our code and LLM prompts for the public to use.1
A new species-group of Macrostomus (Diptera, Empididae) with notable spotted wings recorded from the North Amazonia biogeographical component and a key to species-groups
Authors: RAFAEL JOSÉ ALBERTINO , VASCONCELOS MANUELA SANTOS
Published: April 2024

Two new species of Macrostomus Wiedemann are described, M. megatarsus sp. nov. from Brazil (Pará and Amapá) and French Guiana (Patawa and Régina) and M. polleti sp. nov. from Brazil (Amapá) and French Guiana (Mitaraka). Both species are treated in the new Macrostomus megatarsus species-group, which is defined based on male and female spotted wings, veins R2+3 and R4+5 sinuous leaving cell r2+3 that is subapically narrowed, and female legs with mid femur, hind femur, and hind tibia bearing dorsal and ventral pennate scales. A key to species is presented and the geographical distributions, restricted to the extreme east of the Amazon Basin in the North Amazonia biogeographical component, are mapped. Additionally, the first key to Macrostomus species-groups is presented.
Design of Photoelectric Positioning System and Realization of Its Positioning Mathematical Equation
Authors: Sun Jianhui
Published: April 2024

The research of photoelectric positioning system based on wireless data transmission is a multidisciplinary research direction. In the design of photoelectric positioning system, the LED used for light sensing is selected as the light source, and the AC/DC isolated LED driving circuit
based on AP3706 is designed. When designing photoelectric conversion circuit, considering the influence of noise interference on detection accuracy, a capacitor is added and connected in parallel with the feedback capacitor. In order to improve the detection accuracy, reduce the relative error
of the four-channel signal processing process and maintain the consistency of the four channels, a noninverting amplifier circuit composed of four operational amplifiers LM324 amplifier chips is adopted in this study. NewMsg-RF2401 module is used for wireless data transmission. The system
control module adopts ADμC841 single chip microcomputer as the control core. According to the characteristics of this single chip microcomputer, the corresponding ADC module input drive circuit and control-data transmission interface circuit are designed. While designing the hardware
of the system, it is necessary to calculate the positioning position. In this study, a positioning mathematical equation is proposed, which can obtain the position of the moving target in the geographical area under the wireless transmission network. In the experiment, firstly, the implementation
process of the positioning mathematical equation is described, and then the performance of the proposed positioning mathematical equation is compared with that of the random positioning equation and the binary positioning equation. The results show that more messages can be transmitted by
using the positioning mathematical equation proposed in this study. Based on this, it is used in the positioning system designed in this study, which is unfolded under the condition of constant background light, adjusts the position of the movable light source and determines the position coordinates.
According to the horizontal and vertical displacement of the light source detected by the system, the positioning error is less than 0.1%, which is in line with the design expectation.
Transporting Heat with Hybrid Carreau Nanofluid Over Rotating Cone with Slip and Hall Parameters
Authors: Darvesh Adil , Sánchez-Chero Manuel , Sánchez-Miranda Nicole Anarella , Ramirez Edgard Chapoñan , Céspedes Pedro Aníbal Solís , Alvarez Marcos Timana
Published: April 2024

Background: Improvement in thermal system and its efficiency can be achieved by involving the hybrid nanoparticles due to its vital impact. This report analyzes Carreau Nanofluid with various nanoparticles for enhanced thermal efficiency. A rotating permeable cone with Hall and
Ion slip forces is utilized in the setup. To evaluate momentum transportation, a cone is rotated and generalized Ohm’s law is applied, including an inclined magnetic force. Heat transfer analysis considers viscous dissipation, heat generation, and joule heating. Please shorten the given
text for me to be able to assist you better. Novelty: This study innovatively uses spectral relaxation to solve characteristics of a magnetized, inclined Carreau Nanofluid. It investigates the effects of Hall and ion slip forces on a rotating, heated porous cone. No discussion yet on
inclined magnetized environment for Carreau Yasuda NF movement over rotating cone with spectral relaxation. Formulation: PDEs governing Carreau fluid viscosity simulation transformed into ODEs with similarity transformation. The study includes graphs and tables displaying the impact
of limitations on current and velocity fields. Findings: Higher energy and Eckert numbers increase heat transport, while Hall ion slip parameters enhance liquid waves. Hybrid nanoparticle speed slows due to ion slip and Hall parameters.
Scrutinization of BVP Midrich Method for Heat Transfer Analysis on Various Geometries in the Presence of Porous Medium and Thermal Radiation
Authors: Ramasekhar Gunisetty
Published: April 2024

The importance of water, copper, and aluminium can have several applications in various industries and everyday life. Their unique properties make them valuable materials for a wide range of purposes. These applications demonstrate how water, copper, and aluminium play vital roles in
ensuring the availability, safety, and efficiency of water-related processes and systems. Their specific properties make them suitable for various functions within the water industry, from transportation and heating to treatment and power generation. Based on the importance the current investigation
aims to explore the significance of magnetic field and porous medium and Cu–Al2O3 hybrid nanofluid flow through three distinct geometries. The fluid transport equations were transformed into ordinary differential equations by using self-similarity variables. These
equations were subsequently solved by using the Maple built in BVP Midrich scheme. The results are presented in a variety of graphical formats, including a two-dimensional plot, contours, and streamlines, this research demonstrates how numerous dynamic variables may alter the transport properties
of a fluid in a number of approaches. Throughout all the investigated geometries, the velocity profile exhibits a decreasing nature for increasing the porosity parameter values and temperature profile display an increasing trend for higher values of the thermal radiation parameter. An increase
in the heat generation corresponds to a rise in the nanofluid temperature. Similarly, the nanofluid velocity decreases with higher velocity magnetic field parameter values, while the fluid temperature exhibits opposite behavior, increasing with increasing magnetic field parameter values. Compared
to nanofluids, hybrid nanofluids have a better heat transfer rate. Hybrid nanofluids are used in a variety of applications due to their excellent thermal properties, so it is used for nuclear reactor cooling, water purification industry, and vehicles.
Use of Nanofluid in Multiple Channels Toward Cooling Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Ziad Saghir M. , Rahman M. M.
Published: April 2024

Cooling lithium-ion batteries has been an interesting research subject in the energy sector. This paper addresses the means for a better cooling mechanism in this context. Two different fluids are used, mainly distilled water and nanofluid composed of 2%vol titanium oxide and 98% distilled
water. The channel totaling six, has rectangular shapes with 2 mm in height. The channels are sandwiched between two sets of lithium-ion batteries used in a commercial application. The model governing equations for flow and heat transfer have been solved using the finite element technique.
COMSOL software has been used in this analysis. Furthermore, pin-fins have been used to improve the cooling process. Results revealed that adding metallic nanoparticles (i.e., nanofluid) could enhance water as a cooling liquid. A 12% heat enhancement is noticeable using nanofluid but at the
expense of the pressure drop. On the other hand, using pin-fins combined with nanofluid has been shown to have created a reverse flow in the channel and improved heat extraction by up to 29%. The location of the pin fin also demonstrates an additional parameter to be considered for heat enhancement.
Application of CNTs – Al2O3/H2O on a Hybrid Nanofluid in Two-Dimensional Unsteady Flow in a Stretching Sheet: Darcy-Forchheimer Model
Authors: Badak Kirnu , Sharma Ram Prakash , Ahmed Sahin
Published: April 2024

The fame of carbon nanotube nanoparticles for improving the thermophysical characteristics of fluid molecules has grown recently (Nanoparticles of Carbon nanotubes have attained the fame to enhance the thermophysical properties of fluid molecules). The main objective of this article
is to investigate the boundary layer flow of a hybrid nanofluid composed of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in combination with alumina and water through a stretching sheet while considering the effects of the magnetic field, thermal radiation,
heat dissipation, and slip conditions. Additionally, comparisons and studies of the effects of MWCNTs and SWCNTs nanoparticles on the boundary layer are conducted. The dimensionless similarity transformation is used by the bvp4c algorithm in the MATLAB solver to calculate the numerical solutions
of the dimensionless ordinary differential equations. Graphs and tables are used to show the associated model’s physical parameters. In addition, the hybrid nanofluid’s flow pattern is generally slowed down by the magnetic, porosity, and inertia coefficient factors. The rate of
heat transfer was boosted by using a larger volume fraction of MWCNTs and SWCNTs.
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Adequate Margins for Patients With Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Authors: Shaffer Kristina , Harris Lilian , Ng Stephanie , Tjoe Judy A.
Published: April 2024

Background

For patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) undergoing breast conservation surgery (BCS), guidelines advise a margin width of at least 2 mm, with studies demonstrating decreased recurrence risk compared to narrower margins. However, limited data exist establishing if this margin is appropriate in mastectomies, and specifically for nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM). Consequently, we evaluated the margins of DCIS patients undergoing NSM and resulting oncologic outcomes.

Methods

A single-institution retrospective review was performed in patients with DCIS or DCIS with microinvasion (DCIS + MI) undergoing NSM from April 2010 to December 2021. Patient and tumor characteristics, margin status, treatment, and outcomes information were collected. The association between margins and local-regional (LRR) and distant recurrence (DR) were examined.

Results

161 patients were included, comprising 284 NSM (164 therapeutic, 120 prophylactic). 153 patients had DCIS and 8 had DCIS + MI. Most patients had hormone sensitive, 123 (76.4%), and nuclear grade 2, 72 (44.7%), disease. In total, 35 (21.7%) patients had positive or <2 mm margins. Of these, 21 (60%) involved the anterior margin. At a median follow-up of 45 months (range 0-151), 2.5% (n = 4) had a LRR and .6% (n = 1) had a DR. Of patients with a recurrence, only 2 had positive or <2 mm margins, 1 had received endocrine therapy, and none received adjuvant radiation.

Discussion

No specific margin status was found to correlate with recurrence for patients with DCIS or DCIS + MI undergoing NSM, with an altogether low recurrence risk. Overall, this suggests that recommended DCIS margins in BCS doesn’t necessarily apply in NSM, where margins of <2 mm may be acceptable.
Clinical Value of Different Test Methods in Diagnosing Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection in Children
Authors: Sun Xiuling , Yao Mingzhu , Xu Peijuan , Jing Le
Published: April 2024

This research aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of passive particle agglutination test, Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) culture, cold agglutination test (CAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and polymerase chain reaction-capillary electrophoresis fragment analysis (PCR-CEFA) for MP infection. Children with respiratory tract infections suspected to be MP infection were subjected to passive particle agglutination test, MP culture, CAT, ELISA, and PCR-CEFA. A total of 146 children (81 males, 65 females, mean age: 5.74 ± 3.32 years, and mean course of disease: 9.07 ± 5.18 days) met the inclusion criteria. The positivity rate of MP detection by MP culture was 69.18% (101/146). Using the MP culture method as the standard, higher sensitivity and positive predictive value were found in the PCR-CEFA compared with the other 3 methods. Appropriate methods are selected following the advantages and disadvantages of pathogen detection, and pediatric MP infection is analyzed by integrating various test results.
Return and Volatility Spillover in Equity and Commodity Market: Some Indian Evidence
Authors: Sethy Tapas Kumar , Tripathy Naliniprava
Published: April 2024

This study empirically investigates the return and volatility spillover among equity markets, Agro and non-Agro commodity markets. The study has used daily return data of BSE SENSEX as equity index, MCX iCOMEDEX, including Gold, Silver, and Crude oil, as non-agro indices, and NCDEX (AGRIDEX) as agro commodity indices to analyze volatility transmission between assets and markets using Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (GARCH) and Exponential Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic (EGARCH) model. The study has used dummy variables in the variance equation to identify the structural breaks during the COVID 19 pandemic. Further, Vector Auto Regression (VAR) pair-wise Granger causality test has been used to understand returns’ causality. The study has found a bidirectional and unidirectional causal relationship between variables. The study indicates that NCDEX could influence all the variables except MCX Gold. In structural breaks with deterministic dummy variables during COVID-19, we have found mixed evidence of asymmetric impact on conditional volatility. The study also indicates a positive and significant asymmetric volatility effect in the case of MCX Gold and MCX Silver during the COVID-19 period. The study has specified that SENSEX dominates the inflow of information to all commodity markets. Also, the findings signpost that information flows from NCDEX to MCX Gold, MCX Silver, and MCX Crude Oil.

JEL Codes: C32, E30, E44, F41, G15, Q43
Contribution to the percolation threshold study of Silicon carbide filled polydimethylsiloxane composites used for field grading application
Authors: Metz Renaud , Terzi Sofiane , Fayard Barbara , Bantignies Jean-Louis , Hassanzadeh Mehrdad
Published: April 2024

The correlations between the electrical behavior and microstructural properties of samples consisting of particle composites fabricated from SiC particles embedded in a silicone matrix, were investigated using X-ray computed tomography. In the voltage field range 200-1000 V/mm, the measured conductivity as a function of SiC volume fraction exhibits two distinct gaps. Upon further investigations, we attribute these observations to percolation thresholds at the microscale. The first gap, corresponding to interconnections between SiC particles that were originally disconnected, is more significant at higher voltage; while the second one, resulting from shortening conductivity pathways between the external surfaces of the samples with the increase of SiC volume fraction, seems more sensitive to lower voltages and is correlated with a decrease of the tortuosity of the percolated SiC network.
Book review: Sharma Satish K. and Pathak Sunman l., Urbanization, Population and Environment
Authors: Kaul Ashok
Published: April 2024

Sharma Satish K. and Pathak Sunman l., Urbanization, Population and Environment. Jaipur: Rawat Publications, 2024, 347 pp.