bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the use of a clinical practice guideline for external apical root resorption among orthodontists
Authors: van Doornik Sebastiaan P. , Pijnenburg Marlotte B. M. , Janssen Krista I. , Ren Yijin , Kuijpers-Jagtman Anne Marie
Published: April 2024

Background

External apical root resorption (EARR) is a frequently observed adverse event in patients undergoing fixed appliance therapy. Assessing the patients’ risk during treatment is important, as certain factors are assumed to be associated with an increased likelihood of occurrence. However, their predictive value remains limited, making evidence-based clinical decision-making challenging for orthodontists. To address this issue, the Dutch Association of Orthodontists (NvVO) developed a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for EARR in accordance with the AGREE II instrument (Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II) in 2018. The aim of this study is to get insight into the actual utilization and the practical implementation of the guideline among orthodontists. The hypothesis to be tested was that after its introduction, clinical practice for EARR has changed towards the recommendations in the CPG.

Objective

To investigate the use of the 2018 clinical practice guidelines for EARR among orthodontists 3 years after its introduction.

Methods

A questionnaire using a 7-point Likert scale was developed concerning four domains of EARR described in the guideline. The questionnaire was piloted, finalised, and then distributed digitally among Dutch orthodontists. REDCap was used for data collection, starting with an invitation email in June 2021, followed by two reminders. Effect was tested by the Mann–Whitney U test, and the influence of demographic variables was analysed.

Results

Questionnaires were sent out to all 275 and completed by 133 (response rate 48%); N = 59 females and N = 73 males were included; 81% had their training in the Netherlands, 89% had ≥ 6 years of work experience, and 89% worked in private orthodontic practice. One hundred thirty orthodontists (98.5%) reported changes in clinical practice. The biggest positive change in clinical behaviour regarding EARR occurred if EARR was diagnosed during treatment. Sex, clinical experience, country of specialist training, and working environment of the respondents did not affect clinical practices regarding EARR.

Conclusions

This questionnaire demonstrated that, 3 years after introduction of the guideline, orthodontists improved their self-reported clinical practices to a more standardised management of root resorption. None of the demographic predictors had a significant effect on the results.
Investigating item complexity as a source of cross-national DIF in TIMSS math and science
Authors: Huang Qi , Bolt Daniel M. , Lyu Weicong
Published: April 2024

Background

Large scale international assessments depend on invariance of measurement across countries. An important consideration when observing cross-national differential item functioning (DIF) is whether the DIF actually reflects a source of bias, or might instead be a methodological artifact reflecting item response theory (IRT) model misspecification. Determining the validity of the source of DIF has implications for how it is handled in practice.

Method

We demonstrate a form of sensitivity analysis that can point to model misspecification induced by item complexity as a possible cause of DIF, and show how such a cause of DIF might be accommodated through attempts to generalize the IRT model for the studied item(s) in psychometrically and psychologically plausible ways.

Results

In both simulated illustrations and empirical data from TIMSS 2011 and TIMSS 2019 4th and 8th Grade Math and Science, we have found that using a form of proposed IRT model generalization can substantially reduce DIF when IRT model misspecification is at least a partial cause of the observed DIF.

Conclusions

By demonstrating item complexity as a possible valid source of DIF and showing the effectiveness of the proposed approach, we recommend additional attention toward model generalizations as a means of addressing and/or understanding DIF.
Study on the use of Imazalil to continuous cropping obstacle of Ganoderma lucidum caused by Xylogone ganodermophthora
Authors: Huang Qiuru , Lu Qi , Cao Fenghua , Li Xiaomin , Wu Xiaoping , Sun Huijuan , Zhang Junli , Fu Junsheng
Published: April 2024

Background

The Xylogone ganodermophthora is a pathogenic bacterium that poses a significant challenge to the continuous cultivation of the Ganoderma lucidum fungus. This study aims to identify and investigate specific agents for the effective prevention and control of X. ganodermophthora, establishing a theoretical foundation for overcoming this persistent challenge in G. lucidum cultivation.

Results

Using different G. lucidum soil as materials to study the presence of X. ganodermophthora in the soil. Additionally, the plate confrontation test was employed to investigate the impact of X. ganodermophthora on G. lucidum growth. The impact of physical factors and antibacterial agents on pathogenic bacteria was successfully carried out, with a further exploration of the effectiveness of field control. PCR amplification experiment and sequencing analysis verified that X. ganodermophthora existed in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle soil. This pathogenic bacteria has a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of G. lucidum, with an inhibition rate of up to 52.23%. High temperature, low temperature, light and other physical factors have no obvious inhibitory effect on this pathogen. Further investigation revealed that specific drugs, such as low concentrations (10 μL/mL) of Acticide DB20 and Imazalil, could effectively inhibit X. ganodermophthora growth in G. lucidum. Among them, Imazalil has a notable inhibitory effect on the growth of X. ganodermophthora.

Conclusions

Indoor toxicity test and field control results showed that Imazalil could effectively control the growth of pathogen X. ganodermophthora in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle, and promote the growth of G. lucidum.

Graphical Abstract
Curative resection via right hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection for colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon: a case report
Authors: Aoyama Shu , Inoue Akira , Kagawa Yoshinori , Komori Takamichi , Ozato Yuki , Nishizawa Yujiro , Sugimoto Tomoki , Komatsu Hisateru , Hirota Masashi , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Tomokuni Akira , Motoori Masaaki , Fushimi Hiroaki , Yamamoto Gou , Akagi Kiwamu , Iwase Kazuhiro , Fujitani Kazumasa
Published: April 2024

Background

APC and MUTYH are both well-known colorectal polyposis causative genes. However, 30–50% of colorectal adenomatous polyposis cases are classified as colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology and lack identifiable pathogenic variants. Although guidelines recommend total proctocolectomy for colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with over 100 adenomas, evidence is lacking. This study presents a unique case of localized colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with multiple adenocarcinomas, treated with hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection.

Case presentation

The patient was a 72-year-old woman whose colonoscopy revealed numerous polyps and two adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon, with no lesions in the left side. The patient had no family history of polyposis or colorectal cancer. No extracolonic lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, or distant metastases were found. Considering the patient’s age and lesion localization, laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with regional lymph node dissection was performed. Histopathological diagnosis revealed three adenocarcinoma lesions with no lymph node metastasis. The most advanced pathological stage was T2N0M0 Stage I (UICC 8th edition). The patient was alive 5 years postoperatively, without recurrence of cancer or polyposis in the remaining colon and rectum. To diagnose hereditary colorectal cancer/polyposis, a germline multigene panel testing for APC, EPCAM, MBD4, MLH1, MLH3, MSH2, MSH3, MSH6, MUTYH, NTHL1, PMS2, POLD1, POLE, and TP53 was performed using DNA extracted from blood samples: however, no pathogenic variant was detected. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology.

Conclusions

In this rare case, colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology, with numerous adenomatous polyps and multiple adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon, was successfully treated with right hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection. Despite genetic analysis, no causative germline variants were identified. Segmental colectomy according to the distribution of polyps might be a curative approach.
Selpercatinib for treating recurrent mixed medullary and follicular cell-derived thyroid carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Kadoya Mei , Suganuma Nobuyasu , Matsubara Yuka , Takase Hiroki , Kumagai Eita , Toda Soji , Yamazaki Haruhiko , Masudo Katsuhiko , Fujii Satoshi , Saito Aya
Published: April 2024

Background

Mixed medullary and follicular cell-derived thyroid carcinoma (MMFCC) is characterized by the coexistence of follicular and C cell–derived tumour cell populations within the same lesion. Due to its rarity, its etiology and clinical course remain unclear, and treatment for advanced or recurrent cases has not been established.

Case presentation

We report a case of MMFCC treated with selpercatinib. The patient was a 69-year-old male presenting with tumors in the right thyroid lobe and in the upper mediastinum. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of the right thyroid lobe tumor revealed a medullary carcinoma; germline RET mutations were not detected. After resection of the right thyroid lobe with central node dissection, rapid intraoperative diagnosis of the mediastinal mass confirmed malignancy, leading to total thyroidectomy with excision of the upper mediastinal tumor. Histologically, the tumor in the right thyroid lobe and the pretracheal lymph node revealed a mixture of medullary and follicular carcinoma components, diagnosed as MMFCC. The mediastinal lymph node exhibited only medullary carcinoma components. At 11 months postoperatively, computed tomography scans showed enlargement of the right supraclavicular and upper mediastinal lymph nodes. FNA cytology of the right supraclavicular lymph node suggested the recurrence of medullary thyroid carcinoma. The gene panel testing (The Oncomine Dx Target Test Multi-CDx system®, Thermo Fisher SCIENTIFIC) of metastatic lymph node revealed RET somatic mutation (M918T). Treatment with selpercatinib was initiated, and both the cervical and mediastinal lymph nodes showed a reduction in size.

Conclusions

We report a rare case of selpercatinib use for MMFCC. Since RET mutations may occur frequently in MMFCC, selpercatinib could be effective in treating MMFCC.
Multimodal exercise training to reduce frailty in people with multiple sclerosis: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zanotto Tobia , Kumar Danya Pradeep , Tabatabaei Abbas , Lynch Sharon G. , He Jianghua , Herda Trent J. , Devos Hannes , Thiyagarajan Ramkumar , Chaves Lee , Seldeen Kenneth , Troen Bruce R. , Sosnoff Jacob J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Frailty, a syndrome characterized by decreased reserve and resistance to stressors across multiple physiologic systems, is highly prevalent in people living with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), independent of age or disability level. Frailty in MS is strongly associated with adverse clinical outcomes, such as falls, and may aggravate MS-related symptoms. Consequently, there is a pressing necessity to explore and evaluate strategies to reduce frailty levels in pwMS. The purpose of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be to examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multimodal exercise training program to reduce frailty in pwMS.

Methods

A total of 24 participants will be randomly assigned to 6 weeks of multimodal exercise or to a waitlist control group with a 1:1 allocation. PwMS aged 40–65 years and living with frailty will be eligible. The multimodal exercise program will consist of cognitive-motor rehabilitation (i.e., virtual reality treadmill training) combined with progressive, evidence-based resistance training. At baseline and post-intervention, participants will complete the Evaluative Frailty Index for Physical Activity (EFIP), measures of fall risk, and quality of life. Frailty-related biomarkers will also be assessed. In addition, the feasibility of the multimodal exercise program will be systematically and multidimensionally evaluated.

Discussion

To date, no RCT has yet been conducted to evaluate whether targeted exercise interventions can minimize frailty in MS. The current study will provide novel data on the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of multimodal exercise training as a strategy for counteracting frailty in pwMS.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06042244 (registered in September 2023).
Astaxanthin suppresses the malignant behaviors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by blocking PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways via miR-29a-3p
Authors: Xu Yajia , Jiang Chengyi
Published: April 2024

Background

As a natural extraction, astaxanthin is gaining increasing attention because of its safety and anti-tumor properties. It has been reported to participate in the progression of various types of cancer such as gastric cancer and ovarian cancer. Nevertheless, the role of astaxanthin in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has not been investigated.

Object

The study aimed to explore the anticancer mechanism of astaxanthin in regulating NPC cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, migration, and invasion.

Methods

Human NPC cells (C666-1) were treated with different concentrations of astaxanthin (0, 1, 10, 20 mg/mL) followed by detection of cell viability. Then, C666-1 cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, invasion, and migration in response to 10 mg/mL astaxanthin, LY294002 (PI3K/AKT inhibitor) or parthenolide (PTL; NF-κB inhibitor) treatment were measured using cell counting kit-8 assay, colony forming assay, flow cytometry analyses, Transwell assay, and wound healing assay, respectively. Western blotting was performed to quantify protein levels of factors involved in PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways, cell cycle phase markers (Cyclin D1, p21) and apoptotic markers (Bcl-2 and Bax).

Results

C666-1 cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were significantly suppressed by astaxanthin while cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G1 phase were effectively enhanced in the context of 10 mg/mL astaxanthin. Protein levels of p-AKT, p-P65 and p-IκB levels were suppressed by astaxanthin treatment. After LY294002 or PTL treatment, the suppressive impact of astaxanthin on C666-1 cell process was strengthened, accompanied by the more obvious decrease in cell activity and cell colony number, more enhanced cell apoptosis and G1 phase arrest, and further inhibited cell migration and invasion. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of astaxanthin on Cyclin D1 and Bcl-2 protein levels as well as the promoting impact of astaxanthin on p21 and Bax were also amplified in combination with LY294002 or PTL treatment.

Conclusions

Astaxanthin significantly suppresses NPC cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, migration, invasion while promoting cell apoptosis by inactivating PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways. The study first reveals the anticancer role of astaxanthin in NPC, providing a potential candidate for NPC treatment.
Efficacy of combined formulation of bromadiolone and cholecalciferol in reducing rodent population and damage in agricultural crop fields
Authors: Saggi Diksha , Singla Neena
Published: April 2024

Background

Field rodents cause significant damage to standing crops in agroecosystems at vulnerable stages. Of all the methods available, chemical rodent control is the most practical and economically feasible. Laboratory studies demonstrate the potential of synergistic bait formulations containing bromadiolone and cholecalciferol. This study is the first multi-site multi-crop trial to assess the efficacy of cereal bait formulations containing lower than standard doses of bromadiolone (0.0025 and 0.001%) and cholecalciferol (0.02 and 0.04%) compared to presently recommended bait formulations of zinc phosphide (2.0%) and bromadiolone (0.005%) to protect wheat, rice and sugarcane crop fields against rodent attack.

Results

Rodent control success was highest (74.21–88.80%) in fields treated with a combination bait formulation containing bromadiolone (0.0025%) and cholecalciferol (0.04%), which led to a significant reduction in crop damage (from 6.82 to 26.56% cut tillers/canes and 251.75–1448.00 kg/ha yield loss (in reference block) to 1.18–6.18% cut tillers/canes and 46.67–745.00 kg/ha yield loss (in treated blocks).

Conclusions

This study therefore found that cereal bait formulation containing bromadiolone (0.0025%) and cholecalciferol (0.04%) can be effectively used to manage rodent population in agricultural crop fields and it is suggested that consideration be given to registering this combination rodenticide formulation to improve global food security.
Effect size varies based on calculation method and may affect interpretation of treatment effect: an illustration using randomised clinical trials in osteoarthritis
Authors: Schnitzer Thomas J. , Conaghan Philip G. , Berenbaum Francis , Abraham Lucy , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Bushmakin Andrew G. , Viktrup Lars , Yang Ruoyong , Brown Mark T.
Published: April 2024

Background

To illustrate how (standardised) effect sizes (ES) vary based on calculation method and to provide considerations for improved reporting.

Methods

Data from three trials of tanezumab in subjects with osteoarthritis were analyzed. ES of tanezumab versus comparator for WOMAC Pain (outcome) was defined as least squares difference between means (mixed model for repeated measures analysis) divided by a pooled standard deviation (SD) of outcome scores. Three approaches to computing the SD were evaluated: Baseline (the pooled SD of WOMAC Pain values at baseline [pooled across treatments]); Endpoint (the pooled SD of these values at the time primary endpoints were assessed); and Median (the median pooled SD of these values based on the pooled SDs across available timepoints). Bootstrap analyses were used to compute 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

ES (95% CI) of tanezumab 2.5 mg based on Baseline, Endpoint, and Median SDs in one study were − 0.416 (− 0.796, − 0.060), − 0.195 (− 0.371, − 0.028), and − 0.196 (− 0.373, − 0.028), respectively; negative values indicate pain improvement. This pattern of ES differences (largest with Baseline SD, smallest with Endpoint SD, Median SD similar to Endpoint SD) was consistent across all studies and doses of tanezumab.

Conclusion

Differences in ES affect interpretation of treatment effect. Therefore, we advocate clearly reporting individual elements of ES in addition to its overall calculation. This is particularly important when ES estimates are used to determine sample sizes for clinical trials, as larger ES will lead to smaller sample sizes and potentially underpowered studies.

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02697773, NCT02709486, and NCT02528188.
A prospective open-label study to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous ketamine as an adjunct in treating severe depression
Authors: Thatisetti Venkata Pavan Kumar , Bolla Divya , Donthu Raj Kiran , Pathak Anzory , Gudimetla Amrutha
Published: April 2024

Background

Ketamine, an emerging pharmacotherapeutic agent for depression, has demonstrated rapid and substantial improvement in mood and suicidal ideation, particularly in severe cases. While previous studies have established its efficacy, the current study aims to delve into the effectiveness of intravenous ketamine in treating severe depression.

Methods

An open-label prospective study enrolled 49 consecutive patients with severe depression. Baseline assessments using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and Modified Scale for Suicidal Ideation (MSSI) were conducted. Intravenous (IV) ketamine, administered at 0.5 mg/kg in 100-ml normal saline over 40 min, was given during sessions spaced on alternate days. Each patient received at least five sessions alongside their regular antidepressants. Close monitoring occurred during the infusion, and disease rating scale scores were recorded. Data was analyzed; employed paired Student t-test and graphical were used for visual clarity.

Results

Following the initiation of IV ketamine, a significant reduction in scores was observed from baseline. Response rates were achieved in over half of the patients by the third session and in nearly all by the end of fifth session. Remission rates were attained in nearly half of the patients by the fourth session and in almost all by the fifth session.

Conclusions

IV ketamine could be considered as an adjunct to antidepressants in treating severe depression especially among those with suicidal ideations to obtain rapid improvement. However, the need for long-term studies is emphasized to determine the duration of its effect.
Radio-anatomical evaluation of clinical and radiomic profile of multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging of de novo glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Ahmed H. Shafeeq , Devaraj Trupti , Singhvi Maanini , Dasan T. Arul , Ranganath Priya
Published: April 2024

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a fatal, fast-growing, and aggressive brain tumor arising from glial cells or their progenitors. It is a primary malignancy with a poor prognosis. The current study aims at evaluating the neuroradiological parameters of de novo GBM by analyzing the brain multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) scans acquired from a publicly available database analysis of the scans.

Methods

The dataset used was the mpMRI scans for de novo glioblastoma (GBM) patients from the University of Pennsylvania Health System, called the UPENN-GBM dataset. This was a collection from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA), a part of the National Cancer Institute. The MRIs were reviewed by a single diagnostic radiologist, and the tumor parameters were recorded, wherein all recorded data was corroborated with the clinical findings.

Results

The study included a total of 58 subjects who were predominantly male (male:female ratio of 1.07:1). The mean age with SD was 58.49 (11.39) years. Mean survival days with SD were 347 (416.21) days. The left parietal lobe was the most commonly found tumor location with 11 (18.96%) patients. The mean intensity for T1, T2, and FLAIR with SD was 1.45E + 02 (20.42), 1.11E + 02 (17.61), and 141.64 (30.67), respectively (p =  < 0.001). The tumor dimensions of anteroposterior, transverse, and craniocaudal gave a z-score (significance level = 0.05) of − 2.53 (p = 0.01), − 3.89 (p < 0.001), and 1.53 (p = 0.12), respectively.

Conclusion

The current study takes a third-party database and reduces physician bias from interfering with study findings. Further prospective and retrospective studies are needed to provide conclusive data.
SKZC: self-distillation and k-nearest neighbor-based zero-shot classification
Authors: Sun Muyang , Jia Haitao
Published: April 2024

Zero-shot learning represents a formidable paradigm in machine learning, wherein the crux lies in distilling and generalizing knowledge from observed classes to novel ones. The objective is to identify unfamiliar objects that were not included in the model’s training, leveraging learned patterns and knowledge from previously encountered categories. As a crucial subtask of open-world object detection, zero-shot classification can also provide insights and solutions for this field. Despite its potential, current zero-shot classification models often suffer from a performance gap due to limited transfer ability and discriminative capability of learned representations. In pursuit of advancing the subpar state of zero-shot object classification, this paper introduces a novel model for image classification which can be applied to object detection, namely, self-distillation and k-nearest neighbor-based zero-shot classification method. First, we employ a diffusion detector to identify potential objects in images. Then, self-distillation and distance-based classifiers are used for distinguishing unseen objects from seen classes. The k-nearest neighbor-based cluster heads are designed to cluster the unseen objects. Extensive experiments and visualizations were conducted on publicly available datasets on the efficacy of the proposed approach. Precisely, our model demonstrates performance improvement of over 20% compared to contrastive clustering. Moreover, it achieves a precision of 0.910 and a recall of 0.842 on CIFAR-10 datasets, a precision of 0.737, and a recall of 0.688 on CIFAR-100 datasets for the macro average. Compared to a more recent model (SGFR), our model realized improvements of 10.9%, 13.3%, and 7.8% in Sacc, Uacc, and H metrics, respectively. This study aims to introduce fresh ideas into the domain of zero-shot image classification, and it can be applied to open-world object detection tasks. Our code is available at https://www.github.com/CmosWolf1/Code_implementation_for_paper_SKZC.
Compressive loading and response time behavior of concrete containing refractory brick coarse aggregates
Authors: Deti Deti , Tjaronge Muhammad Wihardi , Caronge Muhammad Akbar
Published: April 2024

This research aimed to determine compressive stress and response time of using refractory brick waste as alternative natural coarse aggregates combined with blended cement in manufacturing sustainable concrete. The experiment was conducted by adding 15–50% aggregates volume of refractory bricks coarse aggregate (RBCA) to concrete mix in order to determine the suitability as coarse aggregates. The results showed that the slump values for the combination of standard concrete (SC) with all RBCA satisfied the design value of ± 20 cm and this showed easy handling and workability of the fresh concrete produced. Moreover, the peak stress and toughness were reduced as RBCA increased from 15 to 50% at both w/c of 0.52 and 0.49. The relationship between compressive stress and response time also showed that the travel time at the elastic, peak, and ultimate stages decreased as RBCA increased from 15 to 50% at both w/c. It was concluded that concrete mix with 50% RBCA did not meet the required criteria at w/c of 0.49 but those with 15–50% RBCA satisfied the minimum requirements at w/c of 0.52.
Explainable Machine Learning Model to Preoperatively Predict Postoperative Complications in Inpatients With Cancer Undergoing Major Operations
Authors: Hernandez Matthew C. , Chen Chen , Nguyen Andrew , Choong Kevin , Carlin Cameron , Nelson Rebecca A. , Rossi Lorenzo A. , Seth Naini , McNeese Kathy , Yuh Bertram , Eftekhari Zahra , Lai Lily L.
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE

Preoperative prediction of postoperative complications (PCs) in inpatients with cancer is challenging. We developed an explainable machine learning (ML) model to predict PCs in a heterogenous population of inpatients with cancer undergoing same-hospitalization major operations.

METHODS

Consecutive inpatients who underwent same-hospitalization operations from December 2017 to June 2021 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. The ML model was developed and tested using electronic health record (EHR) data to predict 30-day PCs for patients with Clavien-Dindo grade 3 or higher (CD 3+) per the CD classification system. Model performance was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), area under the precision recall curve (AUPRC), and calibration plots. Model explanation was performed using the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) method at cohort and individual operation levels.

RESULTS

A total of 988 operations in 827 inpatients were included. The ML model was trained using 788 operations and tested using a holdout set of 200 operations. The CD 3+ complication rates were 28.6% and 27.5% in the training and holdout test sets, respectively. Training and holdout test sets’ model performance in predicting CD 3+ complications yielded an AUROC of 0.77 and 0.73 and an AUPRC of 0.56 and 0.52, respectively. Calibration plots demonstrated good reliability. The SHAP method identified features and the contributions of the features to the risk of PCs.

CONCLUSION

We trained and tested an explainable ML model to predict the risk of developing PCs in patients with cancer. Using patient-specific EHR data, the ML model accurately discriminated the risk of developing CD 3+ complications and displayed top features at the individual operation and cohort level.
Implication of Pappalysins and Stanniocalcins in the Bioavailability of IGF-I in Children With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Güemes María , Martín-Rivada Álvaro , Corredor Beatriz , Enes Patricia , Canelles Sandra , Barrios Vicente , Argente Jesús
Published: April 2024

Context

Anomalies in the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis, are common in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), even in those reaching a normal or near-normal final height. However, concentrations of the IGF bioavailability regulatory factors (pappalysins [PAPP-As] and stanniocalcins [STCs]) have not been reported in children with T1DM.

Objective

To determine serum concentrations of PAPP-As and STCs in children at diagnosis of T1DM and after insulin treatment and the correlation of these factors with other members of the GH/IGF axis, beta-cell insulin reserve, auxology, and nutritional status.

Methods

A single-center prospective observational study including 47 patients (59.5% male), with T1DM onset at median age of 9.2 years (interquartile range: 6.3, 11.9) was performed. Blood and anthropometric data were collected at diagnosis and after 6 and 12 months of treatment.

Results

At 6 and 12 months after T1DM diagnosis, there was improvement in the metabolic control (decrease in glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] at 12 months −3.66 [95% CI: −4.81, −2.05], P = .001), as well as in body mass index SD and height SD (not statistically significant). STC2 increased (P < .001) and PAPP-A2 decreased (P < .001) at 6 and 12 months of treatment onset (P < .001), which was concurrent with increased total IGF-I and IGF-binding protein concentrations, with no significant modification in free IGF-I concentrations. HbA1c correlated with PAPP-A2 (r = +0.41; P < .05) and STC2 (r = −0.32; P < .05).

Conclusion

Implementation of insulin treatment after T1DM onset modifies various components of the circulating IGF system, including PAPP-A2 and STC2. How these modifications modulate linear growth remains unknown.
Lateral Deviation of the Hyoid Bone and Thyroid Cartilage Influences Prevertebral Soft-Tissue Swelling and Dysphagia After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion
Authors: Yang Jae Jun , Lee Jin-Bog , Choi Jun-Young
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Prevertebral soft-tissue swelling (PSTS) after anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) is known to be influenced by several factors. We considered the effect of lateral deviation on the traction force and attempted to find a relationship with the PSTS. This study was designed to evaluate the preoperative lateral deviation of the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage and its effect on PSTS, airway collapse, and clinical outcomes after ACDF.

METHODS:

Preoperative lateral deviations of the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage at the superior cornu and inferior cornu were measured. To assess the effect of lateral deviation, patients who underwent 1 or 2 level ACDF with the left-sided approach were divided into a deviation group (left-sided deviation >5 mm or >10 mm) and a nondeviation group (left-sided deviation <5 mm or <10 mm). Difference of preoperative and postoperative PSTS (dPSTS), airway collapse, dysphagia score, and Neck Disability Index were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS:

Lateral deviation was measured in 290 patients, and 145 were enrolled to assess the effect of lateral deviation. Left-sided deviation was more common than right-sided deviation in all 3 structures (the hyoid bone, superior cornu, and inferior cornu of the thyroid cartilage). The deviation group demonstrated a significantly larger dPSTS at the C3 and C4 levels, more airway collapse at the C4 level, and a higher dysphagia score. There was no significant difference in the Neck Disability Index between the 2 groups. Lateral deviation significantly correlated with dPSTS (C3, C4, C5, and C6 levels) and airway collapse (C3 and C4 levels).

CONCLUSION:

A left-sided deviation of more than 5 mm of the hyoid bone or thyroid cartilage discouraged the left-sided approach for ACDF because of the aggravation of dPSTS, airway collapse, and dysphagia postoperatively.
Οικισμοί ιερών και ιερά οικισμών
Authors: Νταϊφά Κορνηλία
Published: April 2024

Η διατριβή πραγματεύεται το αρχαιολογικό υλικό (αρχιτεκτονική και κινητά ευρήματα) από την εγκατάσταση στη θέση «Μάντρα» της νησίδας του Δεσποτικού, πριν την κατασκευή του αρχαϊκού τεμένους. Στόχος της είναι η κατανόηση και ερμηνεία του χαρακτήρα και της λειτουργίας αυτής της εγκατάστασης από την περίοδο ίδρυσής της στον ύστερο 9ο/πρώιμο 8ο αι. π.Χ. μέχρι την περίοδο που αποκρυσταλλώθηκε η μορφή του τεμένους του Απόλλωνα κατά το β΄ μισό του 6ου αι. π.Χ. Η μελέτη του -ως επι το πλείστον αδημοσίευτου- υλικού ρίχνει φως σε μία σειρά πολύπλοκων ζητημάτων που αφορούν στην αναγνώριση των λατρευτικών και κοσμικών δραστηριοτήτων στα αρχαιολογικά δεδομένα, στις διεργασίες μέσα από τις οποίες αναδύθηκαν χώροι λατρείας μέσα σε οικισμούς, ή σε απόσταση από αυτούς, στη σχέση της λατρείας με την κοινωνική οργάνωση, στις τοπικές ιδιομορφίες και διαφοροποιήσεις στο Αιγαίο της Πρώιμης Εποχής του Σιδήρου και της Αρχαϊκής περιόδου. Τέλος, η σχέση αυτής της μέχρι πρότινος άγνωστης εγκατάστασης στο Δεσποτικό με την Πάρο και η ένταξή της στο χρονολογικό και γεωγραφικό πλαίσιο της, συμπληρώνει και αναδιαμορφώνει το μωσαϊκό της ιστορίας των Κυκλάδων κατά τη γεωμετρική και αρχαϊκή περίοδο.
“The person was like the glue in the cracked pot which was no longer there”: co-production of the web-based Families and Friends in Bereavement intervention
Authors: Campling Natasha , Lund Susi , Allam Alison , Precious Gail , Myall Michelle
Published: April 2024

Background Families, friends and support networks are key to managing bereavement. COVID-19 social restrictions prevented families and friends from being with the dying and participating in usual rituals to honour the dead. This resulted in social disconnection, feelings of guilt, and difficulty in making sense of the death and reconstructing relationships. In response to this context a theoretically informed, co-produced web-resource to facilitate meaning-making, which situates bereavement in the context of family and friends, was developed. This paper describes the development of the web-based intervention. Study aims To co-produce a web-based intervention theoretically informed by the family level extension Dual Process Model and Family Sense of Coherence, and pilot the intervention gaining user feedback to inform refinements in readiness for adoption and implementation. Methods Following a scoping review, a mixed methods study was undertaken using an online survey via questionnaire and virtual co-production workshop with bereaved people and bereavement professionals. Results Survey respondents (n=32) reported the pandemic negatively affected bereavement (guilt, isolation, inability to bear witness) but also presented new opportunities to celebrate the deceased and support the bereaved (new funeral rituals, technology, remote contact, social acknowledgement of grief). Sense-making and managing bereavement were helped through information-giving, support networks, and relocating the person within the family context. A web-resource to facilitate collective grief was viewed positively and endorsed. Key content including family activities to stimulate support, information regarding the range of grief experience and dealing with the practicalities, along with other sources of support was agreed by workshop participants (n=5) to form the basis of the intervention. Conclusion The publicly accessible Families and Friends in Bereavement intervention encourages consideration of bereavement in the context of close social networks. It enables grief to be understood and managed within a shared experience by promoting communication and meaning-making.
Uso del laboratorio financiero para retos académicos internacionales. Casos esg Research Challenge y Hemispheric Investment Challenge
Authors: Zuluaga Muñoz William , Franco Ospina Jonathan David
Published: April 2024

Pueden contarse múltiples ejemplos globales y locales de la utilidad de las herramientas tecnológicas y la instrucción asistida por computador como apoyo a la formación de los estudiantes. En Colombia, pueden encontrarse casos de universidades que usan el aprendizaje por retos junto a plataformas de análisis de mercados operadas desde laboratorios financieros como práctica académica cotidiana, y que así cumplen con algunos requerimientos de los factores de calidad que se solicitan en procesos de acreditación institucional y de programa. Así es como el aprendizaje por retos permite acercar a los estudiantes a temas cotidianos y concretos requeridos en el entorno laboral, fomentando la apropiación más allá del mero acceso o uso recreativo. En este sentido, el presente capítulo describe aspectos centrales del modelo educativo seguido por la Universidad Ean para la participación exitosa en los retos ESG Research Challenge (USIL-Perú) y Hemispheric Investment Challenge (UADE-Argentina), en un año tan atípico como el 2020.
El análisis del entorno organizacional visto a través del juego (PEST-Quarto®)
Authors: Rodríguez Wilches Danna Patricia , Rodríguez Romero Carlos Alberto
Published: April 2024

El capítulo describe la teoría de juegos, usando el dilema del prisionero como base referencial para la representación de los elementos concernientes a dicha teoría. A continuación, expone el aprendizaje centrado en el estudiante (ACE), discriminando sus categorías fundamentales extraídas de una revisión sistemática de literatura, para pasar a una asociación entre la organización, su entorno y las elecciones estratégicas de los tomadores de decisiones que toman en consideración el marco pestel. Después, desarrolla un apartado sobre el juego Quarto®, su estructura y sus reglas, y las ventajas de ser considerado un instrumento del ACE. Por último, se efectúa una asociación entre el Quarto® y el marco pestel como referente para el tomador de decisiones estratégicas, donde se exponen tres resultados de partidas y los posibles aprendizajes que de ellas se pueden extraer.
Aprendizaje activo utilizando un enfoque desde lo humano. Área de Negocios Internacionales
Authors: Suárez Ríos María Alexandra , Cuero Acosta Yonni Angel , Alcocer Tocora Milena
Published: April 2024

El aprendizaje activo se convierte hoy día en el centro del proceso de construcción del conocimiento en los estudiantes. Este modelo de aprendizaje busca generar una experiencia cercana a los posibles campos de acción de las profesiones en formación. Pese a que se ha teorizado mucho sobre el aprendizaje activo en el campo de los negocios, este capítulo describe el diseño, planeación, desarrollo, evaluación y reflexión de la ejecución de un enfoque activo pedagógico donde el ser humano es el centro, partiendo de sus características propias. La aplicación de este enfoque ha permitido la empatía entre el docente y el estudiante desde el reconocimiento del otro, potenciando el alcance de los resultados de aprendizaje en torno al contenido de la asignatura. El capítulo hace hincapié en los elementos y recursos tenidos en cuenta para el diseño del curso, y se presentan las reflexiones sobre los resultados de aprendizaje desde la perspectiva de los estudiantes.
Gentrification and Racial Distrust in Communities: Evidence from 911 Calls
Authors: Ananthakrishnan Uttara M. , Hasan Sharique , Kumar Anuj
Published: April 2024

The prevalence of racial bias in policing has long concerned social scientists and policymakers. This article studies a predecessor mechanism that constitutes an important source of policing bias in American society: calls by individuals to the police to investigate “suspicious” behaviors, often involving neighbors. We construct a novel data set of more than 39 million 911 calls across 14 U.S. cities from 2011 to 2020. These data, obtained through the digitization initiatives of local governments, provide us with a unique opportunity to study neighborhood-level trust and social cohesion and demonstrate how changes to a neighborhood’s composition lead to systematic increases in the prevalence of “unfounded” suspicion calls to the police. Across a range of specifications, the proportion of unfounded suspicion calls increases as more non-Black residents move into neighborhoods with historically high levels of Black residents. This relationship is exacerbated in gentrifying neighborhoods and those with public spaces that enable more contact between community members. However, we also find some evidence that Black leadership and public support of Black citizens in communities mitigate the association between non-Black residents and the proportion of unfounded 911 calls. We discuss our results and implications for future research and policy.

This paper was accepted by Anindya Ghose, information systems.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.00362 .
Queuing analysis and optimization of public vehicle transport stations: A case of South West Ethiopia region vehicle stations
Authors: Alem Mequanint Birhan
Published: April 2024

Modern urban environments present a dynamically growing field where, notwithstanding shared goals, several mutually conflicting interests frequently collide. However, it has a big impact on the city's socioeconomic standing, waiting lines and queues are common occurrences. This results in extremely long lines for vehicles and people on incongruous routes, service coagulation, customer murmuring, unhappiness, complaints, and looking for other options, sometimes illegally. The root cause is corruption, which leads to traffic jams, stops and packs vehicles beyond their safe carrying capacity, and violates passengers' human rights and freedoms. This study focused on optimizing the time passengers had to wait in public vehicle stations. This applied research employed both data-gathering sources and mixed approaches. Then, 166 samples of key informants of transport stations were taken using the Slovin sampling formula. The time vehicles, including the drivers and auxiliary drivers ‘Weyala', had to wait was also studied. To maximize the service level at vehicle stations, a queuing model was subsequently devised ‘Menaharya’. Time, cost, and quality encompass performance, scope, and suitability for the intended purposes. The study also focused on determining the minimal response time required for passengers and vehicles queuing to reach their ultimate destinations within the transportation stations in Tepi, Mizan, and Bonga. A new bus station system was modeled and simulated by Arena simulation software in the chosen study area. 84% improvement on cost reduced by 56.25%, time 4 hours to 1.5 hours, quality, safety and designed load performance calculations employed. Stakeholders are asked to implement the model and monitor the results obtained.
Implicit linear difference equation over residue class rings
Authors:   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Heneralov Mykola , Piven' Aleksey ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Published: April 2024

We investigate the first order implicit linear difference equation over residue class rings modulo m. We prove an existence criterion and establish the number of solutions for this equation. We obtain analogous results for the initial problem of the considered equation. The examples which illustrate the developed theory are given.
Anatolii V. Zhuchok. To the 50th anniversary
Authors: Editorial Board ADM
Published: April 2024

We warmly congratulate Professor Anatolii V. Zhuchok, one of the Editors-in-Chief of the journal “Algebra and Discrete Mathematics” on his 50th anniversary and wish him strong health, further fruitful scientific achievements and good luck.
Exploring factors affecting clinical supervisors' capacity to train students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Scorer Trish , Sargent Hannah J
Published: April 2024

Background:

The combination of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, increased pet ownership and recruitment difficulties in veterinary practice, has the potential to impact the clinical supervisor-led training of student veterinary nurses.

Aims:

This study explored the capacity for clinical supervisor-led training of student veterinary nurses and the factors contributing to reduced capacity.

Methods:

A questionnaire-based study of training managers in referral and primary care practice was performed, exploring difficulties encountered appointing clinical supervisors and with fulfilling the role, before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings:

There was a reduced capacity for clinical supervisor-led training of student veterinary nurses throughout and following the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily because of a lack of time for the role.

Conclusion:

Challenges faced in clinical supervisor-led training of student veterinary nurses have led to reduced capacity for training. Future research and innovation in clinical nursing education needs to address the lack of time for nurses to fulfil the clinical supervisor role.
The importance of the team in small animal CPR
Authors: Hallam Rachel , Howarth Susan
Published: April 2024

This review draws on evidence from human medicine to assess the team factors most relevant to small animal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is increasingly being recognised that leadership, team building, communication and situational awareness all impact both the team's experience and clinical outcomes. Leadership training, nurse-led teams, debriefing, closed-loop communication and cognitive aids have all been shown to improve CPR performance and thus deserve consideration alongside the practical elements of arrest and resuscitation. There is limited primary evidence to support this claim in veterinary medicine. However, the mental models underpinning clinical human factors are largely seen as transferable, with veterinary governing bodies supporting their inclusion in practice culture and training.
Developing Creative Thinking in Preschool Children: A Comprehensive Review of Innovative
Authors: Nurjanah Novita Eka , Yetti Elindra , Sumantri Mohamad Syarif
Published: April 2024

The ability to think creatively has a vital role in the development of preschool children. This research provides a comprehensive review of innovative approaches and strategies for developing creative thinking in preschool children based on current trends and methodologies used in educational settings. This research shows three significant areas: (a) creative thinking skills in preschool children, (b) factors influencing creative thinking skills in depth, and (c) innovative strategies and approaches to stimulate creative thinking abilities in preschool children. This research uses a literature study method assisted by the publish perish application to find reference sources related to creative thinking abilities in preschool children. Studies show that creative thinking abilities in preschool children enable them to find innovative solutions, help them adapt to challenges, foster self-confidence and courage, and enrich their experience and knowledge of the world around them. Meanwhile, preschool children's creative thinking abilities are influenced by collaboration from the external environment (parents, teachers, and society); providing support and examples for children to develop and stimulate their creative thinking skills is very important.

 