bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Routine CSF parameters as predictors of disease course in multiple sclerosis: an MSBase cohort study
Authors: Dekeyser Cathérine , Hautekeete Matthias , Cambron Melissa , Van Pesch Vincent , Patti Francesco , Kuhle Jens , Khoury Samia , Lechner Scott Jeanette , Gerlach Oliver , Lugaresi Alessandra , Maimone Davide , Surcinelli Andrea , Grammond Pierre , Kalincik Tomas , Habek Mario , Willekens Barbara , Macdonell Richard , Lalive Patrice , Csepany Tunde , Butzkueven Helmut , Boz Cavit , Tomassini Valentina , Foschi Matteo , Sánchez-Menoyo José Luis , Altintas Ayse , Mrabet Saloua , Iuliano Gerardo , Sa Maria Jose , Alroughani Raed , Karabudak Rana , Aguera-Morales Eduardo , Gray Orla , de Gans Koen , van der Walt Anneke , McCombe Pamela A , Deri Norma , Garber Justin , Al-Asmi Abdullah , Skibina Olga , Duquette Pierre , Cartechini Elisabetta , Spitaleri Daniele , Gouider Riadh , Soysal Aysun , Van Hijfte Liesbeth , Slee Mark , Amato Maria Pia , Buzzard Katherine , Laureys Guy
Published: April 2024

Background

It remains unclear whether routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters can serve as predictors of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease course.

Methods

This large-scale cohort study included persons with MS with CSF data documented in the MSBase registry. CSF parameters to predict time to reach confirmed Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores 4, 6 and 7 and annualised relapse rate in the first 2 years after diagnosis (ARR2) were assessed using (cox) regression analysis.

Results

In total, 11 245 participants were included of which 93.7% (n=10 533) were persons with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). In RRMS, the presence of CSF oligoclonal bands (OCBs) was associated with shorter time to disability milestones EDSS 4 (adjusted HR=1.272 (95% CI, 1.089 to 1.485), p=0.002), EDSS 6 (HR=1.314 (95% CI, 1.062 to 1.626), p=0.012) and EDSS 7 (HR=1.686 (95% CI, 1.111 to 2.558), p=0.014). On the other hand, the presence of CSF pleocytosis (≥5 cells/µL) increased time to moderate disability (EDSS 4) in RRMS (HR=0.774 (95% CI, 0.632 to 0.948), p=0.013). None of the CSF variables were associated with time to disability milestones in persons with primary progressive MS (PPMS). The presence of CSF pleocytosis increased ARR2 in RRMS (adjusted R2=0.036, p=0.015).

Conclusions

In RRMS, the presence of CSF OCBs predicts shorter time to disability milestones, whereas CSF pleocytosis could be protective. This could however not be found in PPMS. CSF pleocytosis is associated with short-term inflammatory disease activity in RRMS. CSF analysis provides prognostic information which could aid in clinical and therapeutic decision-making.
Is prone positioning a valid intervention for ARDS in the deployed intensive care unit?
Authors: Maclean Narin , Davies P , Lewis S
Published: April 2024

Prone positioning is an intervention used for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) whose hypoxia is worsening despite conventional treatment. Previously used infrequently, it became an important treatment escalation strategy for hypoxia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current evidence for prone positioning suggests increased survivability in intubated patients with moderate to severe ARDS who are prone for >12 hours a day. As a relatively low-cost, low-tech intervention with a growing evidence base, the viability of prone positioning in the deployed land environment is considered in this article. The practical technique of prone positioning is easy to teach to healthcare staff experienced in manual handling. However, it requires significant resources, in particular staff numbers, and time to execute and maintain, and necessitates a pressure-minimising mattress. Additionally, staff are placed at increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries and potential exposure to aerosolised microbes if there is a disconnection of the breathing system. We conclude that in the deployed 2/1/2/12 facility (or larger), with access to higher staff numbers and high-specification mattresses, prone positioning is a valid escalation technique for intubated hypoxic patients with ARDS. However, in smaller facilities where resources are constrained, its implementation is unlikely to be achievable.
Virtual reality to reduce periprocedural anxiety during invasive coronary angiography: rationale and design of the VR InCard trial
Authors: Breunissen Esther Helena Wouda , Groenveld Tjitske Diederike , Garms Linda , Bonnes Judith L , van Goor Harry , Damman Peter
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography (ICA) experience anxiety due to various reasons. Procedural anxiety can lead to physiological and psychological complications, compromising patient comfort and overall procedural outcomes. Benzodiazepines are commonly used to reduce periprocedural anxiety, although the effect is modest. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising non-pharmacological intervention to reduce anxiety in patients undergoing ICA.

Methods and analysis

A single-centre open-label randomised controlled trial is conducted assessing the effectiveness of add-on VR therapy on anxiety in 100 patients undergoing ICA and experiencing anxiety in a periprocedural setting. The primary outcome is the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) anxiety score measured just before obtaining arterial access. Secondary outcomes include postarterial puncture and postprocedural anxiety, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of anxiety and physiological measurements associated with anxiety. The NRS anxiety level and physiological measurements are assessed five times during the procedure. The PROM State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale are completed preprocedure, and the PROM STAI and the Igroup Presence Questionnaire are performed postprocedure.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol of this study has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Radboud University Medical Centre, the Netherlands (CMO Arnhem-Nijmegen, 2023–16586). Informed consent is obtained from all patients. The trial is conducted according to the principles of the Helsinki Declaration and in accordance with Dutch guidelines, regulations, and acts (Medical Research involving Human Subjects Act, WMO).

Registration details

Trial registration number:NCT06215456.
Design of trials in lacunar stroke and cerebral small vessel disease: review and experience with the LACunar Intervention Trial 2 (LACI-2)
Authors: Blair Gordon , Appleton Jason P , Mhlanga Iris , Woodhouse Lisa J , Doubal Fergus , Bath Philip M , Wardlaw Joanna M
Published: April 2024

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) causes lacunar stroke (25% of ischaemic strokes), haemorrhage, dementia, physical frailty, or is ‘covert’, but has no specific treatment. Uncertainties about the design of clinical trials in cSVD, which patients to include or outcomes to assess, may have delayed progress. Based on experience in recent cSVD trials, we reviewed ways to facilitate future trials in patients with cSVD.

We assessed the literature and the LACunar Intervention Trial 2 (LACI-2) for data to inform choice of Participant, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome, including clinical versus intermediary endpoints, potential interventions, effect of outcome on missing data, methods to aid retention and reduce data loss. We modelled risk of missing outcomes by baseline prognostic variables in LACI-2 using binary logistic regression.

Imaging versus clinical outcomes led to larger proportions of missing data. We present reasons for and against broad versus narrow entry criteria. We identified numerous repurposable drugs with relevant modes of action to test in various cSVD subtypes. Cognitive impairment is the most common clinical outcome after lacunar ischaemic stroke but was missing more frequently than dependency, quality of life or vascular events in LACI-2. Assessing cognitive status using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders Fifth Edition can use cognitive data from multiple sources and may help reduce data losses.

Trials in patients with all cSVD subtypes are urgently needed and should use broad entry criteria and clinical outcomes and focus on ways to maximise collection of cognitive outcomes to avoid missing data.
Feasibility of using an automated call service to collect quality of life and functional outcome data in trauma patients
Authors: Baird Emily W , Black Jonathan A , Winkler John P , Stephens Shannon W , Griffin Russell L , Jansen Jan O
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Following up trauma patients after discharge, to evaluate their subsequent quality of life and functional outcomes, is notoriously difficult, time consuming, and expensive. Automated systems are a conceptually attractive solution. We prospectively assessed the feasibility of using a series of automated phone calls administered by Emmi Patient Engagement to survey trauma patients after discharge.

Methods

Recruitment into the study was incorporated into the patient discharge process by nursing staff. For this pilot, we included trauma patients discharging home and who were able to answer phone calls. A script was created to evaluate the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale and the EuroQol EQ-5D to assess functional status and quality of life, respectively. Call attempts were made at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge.

Results

A total of 110 patients initially agreed to participate. 368 attempted patient encounters (calls or attempted calls) took place, with 104 (28.3%) patients answering a least one question in the study. 21 unique patients (19.1% of those enrolled) completed 27 surveys.

Conclusions

Automated, scripted phone calls to survey patients after discharge are not a feasible way of collecting functional and quality of life data.

Level of evidence

Level II/prospective.
Cell-in-cell-mediated intercellular communication exacerbates the pro-inflammatory progression in asthma
Authors: Wang Shan , Liu Bowen , He Huiru , Huang Jiahao , He Fangping , He Ying , Tao Ailin
Published: April 2024

Cell-in-cell (CIC) structures have been suggested to mediate intracellular substance transport between cells and have been found widely in inflammatory lung tissue of asthma. The aim of this study was to investigate the significance of CIC structures in inflammatory progress of asthma. CIC structures and related inflammatory pathways were analyzed in asthmatic lung tissue and normal lung tissue of mouse model. In vitro, the activation of inflammatory pathways by CIC-mediated intercellular communication was analyzed by RNA-Seq and verified by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Results showed that CIC structures of lymphocytes and alveolar epithelial cells in asthmatic lung tissue mediated intercellular substance (such as mitochondria) transfer and promoted pro-inflammation in two phases. At early phase, internal lymphocytes triggered inflammasome-dependent pro-inflammation and cell death of itself. Then, degraded lymphocytes released cellular contents such as mitochondria inside alveolar epithelial cells, further activated multi-pattern-recognition receptors and NF-kappa B signaling pathways of alveolar epithelial cells, and thereby amplified pro-inflammatory response in asthma. Our work supplements the mechanism of asthma pro-inflammation progression from the perspective of CIC structure of lymphocytes and alveolar epithelial cells, and provides a new idea for anti-inflammatory therapy of asthma.
The evolving role of wildfire in the Maritimes region of eastern Canada
Authors: Taylor Anthony R. , MacLean David A.
Published: April 2024

The Maritimes region of eastern Canada is not typically associated with wildfire, but the severe 2023 fire season has reminded “Maritimers” that despite its cool, damp climate and diverse, mixed forests, the region is not immune to burning. In this perspectives article, we review the relationship of wildfire and the Maritimes by first providing a brief history on the role fire has played in shaping the forests of the Maritimes and our part in that relationship. We then describe the current state of wildfire management, including strategies and technologies used to prevent fire, and identify some key important challenges moving forward. Overall, our review shows that the people of this region have a long history with wildfire, but that since European colonization (1600s) the local fire regime has undergone significant shifts. While the introduction of forest protection legislation and technology during the early 20th century has greatly reduced the occurrence of fire and substantially lengthened the fire return interval, the growing, sprawling population of the Maritimes presents new challenges for managing fire in the wildland–urban interface. Combined with the threat of climate change, which is likely to increase the occurrence of wildfire, new urban planning and forest management strategies must be developed to address these emerging dangers.
Nonlinear localized modes in a higher-order anisotropic ferromagnetic nanowire with octupole–dipole interaction
Authors: Pavithra T. , Kavitha L. , Mani Awadesh
Published: April 2024

Increasing demand for advanced technologies that depends on magnetic phenomena, understanding and controlling the behavior of discrete breather in ferromagnetic nanowires are crucial for enhancing the efficiency and performance of such devices. The presence of octupole–dipole interactions signifies a unique aspect that could potentially influence the stability and localization of breather excitations. Hence, we adopted a multifaceted approach to investigate the Heisenberg anisotropic ferromagnetic nanowire discrete model with the following interactions: bilinear, octupole–dipole, anisotropy and its higher-order terms. The dynamics is governed by a discrete nonlinear Schrödinger equation (DNLS) arrived with the aid of Holstein–Primakoff transformation. This transformation was facilitated by utilizing the Glauber coherent representation of the boson operators. Subsequently, the dynamical equation is incorporated to the Modulational Instability (MI) analysis which is a systematical gateway to explore the breather excitation in the region of instability influenced by the octupole–dipole interaction coupling parameter. Then, we pictorially demonstrated that the octupole–dipole interaction plays a pivotal role in promoting the localization of discrete breather on the surface of the spin lattice sites in the discrete ferromagnetic nanowire. The energy density distribution also implies that the increase in octupole–dipole interaction results in the highly dense breather localization. The result shows that the increment in the octupole–dipole interaction parameter increases the amplitude of the localized breathers. These discrete breathers could hold immense promise for applications in magnetic storage and Spintronic devices, where maintaining stable localized modes is crucial for the device functionality. Our novelty lies in being pioneers in the exploration of a fully discrete model that encompasses higher-order interactions, such as the octupole–dipole interaction. We already have confirmed the existence of instability region on the discrete spin lattice by incorporating the octupole–dipole interaction [T. Pavithra, L. Kavitha, Prabhu and A. Mani, Modulational instability analysis in an isotropic ferromagnetic nanowire with higher order octopole-dipole interaction, in Nonlinear Dynamics and Applications: Proceedings of the ICNDA 2022 (Springer, 2022), p. 1209], we attempting to explore the generation of discrete breathers in a discrete anisotropic ferromagnetic nanowire. This effectively bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and practical implications, paving the way for innovative advancements in magnetic technology.
Cretaceous geology and stratigraphy of Morocco and adjacent coastal basins
Authors: Kuhnt Wolfgang , Holbourn Ann , Aquit Mohamed , Beil Sebastian , Chellai El Hassane
Published: April 2024

The Cretaceous marine sediments of Morocco and adjacent coastal basins provide an outstanding archive of environmental diversity from extended shelf seas and marginal basins along the Atlantic and Tethyan margins to deep oceanic basins of the western Tethys and eastern Atlantic Ocean. The geological highlights of Morocco's fascinating landscape include records of Lower Cretaceous Tethyan marginal and deep-water clastic sequences in the Rif mountain chain (submarine fan systems of the Massylian and Mauretanian flysch units), as well as siliciclastic sedimentary sequences in subsiding coastal basins (TanTan Delta), which extend offshore along the NW African Atlantic margin. Vestiges of the Aptian to Turonian greenhouse climate, sea-level highstands and oceanic anoxic events are exceptionally well preserved in Tethyan marginal and deep-water sedimentary successions of the Rif, in Atlantic coastal basins and as transgressive pulses on the Moroccan Meseta, Sahara platform and High Atlas rift system. Furthermore, sedimentary expressions of the tectonic movements between the African and European plates associated with the end Cretaceous climate and sea-level changes are documented in the Rif mountain chain, in coastal basins, and in the massive marginal marine phosphorite sedimentation in the Middle and High Atlas, on the Moroccan Meseta and Sahara platform. The Cretaceous sedimentary archives from Morocco and adjacent coastal basins still retain untapped potential to further contribute to our understanding of global eustatic sea-level changes and the response of the oceans and marine biota in upwelling driven oxygen minimum zones under greenhouse climate conditions.
Multi-scale Simulation of Complex Systems: A Perspective of Integrating Knowledge and Data
Authors: Wang Huandong , Yan Huan , Rong Can , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Fenyu , Han Zhenyu , Sui Hongjie , Jin Depeng , Li Yong
Published: April 2024

Complex system simulation has been playing an irreplaceable role in understanding, predicting, and controlling diverse complex systems. In the past few decades, the multi-scale simulation technique has drawn increasing attention for its remarkable ability to overcome the challenges of complex system simulation with unknown mechanisms and expensive computational costs. In this survey, we will systematically review the literature on multi-scale simulation of complex systems from the perspective of knowledge and data. First, we will present background knowledge about simulating complex systems and the scales in complex systems. Then, we divide the main objectives of multi-scale modeling and simulation into five categories by considering scenarios with clear scale and scenarios with unclear scale, respectively. After summarizing the general methods for multi-scale simulation based on the clues of knowledge and data, we introduce the adopted methods to achieve different objectives. Finally, we introduce the applications of multi-scale simulation in typical matter systems and social systems.
Effect of Halides on MPS Orientation and Cu Deposition Rates at Cu Surfaces
Authors: Lindsay Gavin S. , Schmidt Ralf , Wendeln Christian , Gewirth Andrew A.
Published: April 2024

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), electrochemical measurements, and contact angles were used to evaluate the effect of halides on Cu electrodeposition rates in the presence of 3-mercapto-1-propanesulfonate (MPS). The Cu(II) reduction rate was shown to decrease in the order Cl− > Br− > I−. In-situ SERS and contact angle measurements showed that adsorbed MPS will exhibit decreased gauche to trans (g:t) ratio and decreased hydrophobicity in the same order as the Cu(II) reduction rate. The amount of MPS in the gauche form, due to the hydrophobicity of the halide decorated surface, is a key factor in the Cu(II) reduction rate in acid sulfate baths containing the accelerator.
ATR-SEIRAS Method to Measure Interfacial pH during Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction on Cu
Authors: Corson Elizabeth R. , Guo Jinyu , Tarpeh William A.
Published: April 2024

This study reports the accuracy and applications of an attenuated total reflectance–surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (ATR–SEIRAS) technique to indirectly measure the interfacial pH of the electrolyte within 10 nm of the electrocatalyst surface. This technique can be used in situ to study aqueous electrochemical reactions with a calibration range from pH 1–13, time resolution down to 4 s, and an average 95% confidence interval of 14% that varies depending on the pH region (acidic, neutral, or basic). The method is applied here to electrochemical nitrate reduction at a copper cathode to demonstrate its capabilities, but is broadly applicable to any aqueous electrochemical reaction (such as hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide reduction, or oxygen evolution) and the electrocatalyst may be any SEIRAS-active thin film (e.g., silver, gold, or copper). The time-resolved results show a dramatic increase in the interfacial pH from pH 2–7 in the first minute of operation during both constant current and pulsed current experiments where the bulk pH is unchanged. Attempts to control the pH polarization at the surface by altering the electrochemical operating conditions—lowering the current or increasing the pulse frequency—showed no significant change, demonstrating the challenge of controlling the interfacial pH.
Silver Nanoparticle-Decorated Carbon Fiber Microelectrode for Imidacloprid Insecticide Analysis
Authors: Kaewket Keerakit , Ngamchuea Kamonwad
Published: April 2024

The electrocatalytic activity of silver towards imidacloprid reduction was demonstrated at both macro- and nano-scales. Coupled with the advantages of microscopic electrodes, this has led to the development of a highly-sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor for imidacloprid detection. This sensor utilizes silver nanoparticle-decorated carbon fiber microelectrodes (AgNPs/CF) fabricated through a single-step electrodeposition. Employing AgNPs/CF, the linear range, sensitivity, and limit of detection (3SB/m) were determined to be 0.0–0.40 mM, 2.98 × 10−8 ± 0.10 × 10−8 A mM−1, and 60.4 nM, respectively. The sensor was successfully applied to detect imidacloprid directly in various water samples without the need for sample preparation, demonstrating ca. 100% recoveries. Moreover, the sensor was applied to analyze imidacloprid release from contaminated soil samples, revealing Langmuir characteristics of the desorption process.
SMEK1 ablation promotes glucose uptake and improves obesity-related metabolic dysfunction via AMPK signaling pathway
Authors: Wei Shijun , Song Yu , Li Zhengbin , Liu Ai , Xie Yunfang , Gao Shang , Shi Hongbiao , Sun Ping , Wang Zekun , Jin Yecheng , Sun Wenjie , Li Xi , Li Jiangxia , Liu Qiji
Published: April 2024

Our study clarified the relationship between SMEK1 and obesity for the first time and validated the conclusion in multiple ways by combining available data from public databases, human samples, and animal models. In addition, we clarified the role of SMEK1 in glucose uptake, providing an in-depth interpretation for the study of its function in glucose metabolism.
Always expect the unexpected: eye position modulates visual cortex excitability in a stimulus-free environment
Authors: de Wit Matthieu M. , Faseyitan Olufunsho , Coslett H. Branch
Published: April 2024

For many complex tasks, humans focus attention on the site relevant to the task at hand. Humans evolved and live in dangerous environments, however, in which threats arise from outside the attended site; this fact necessitates a process by which the periphery is monitored. Using single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), we demonstrated for the first time that eye position modulates visual cortex excitability. We argue that this underlies at least in part what we term “surveillance attention.”
Significance of Estrogen/Progesterone Receptor Expression in Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Hashmi Atif Ali , Mallick Bakhtawar Allauddin , Rashid Khushbakht , Malik Umair Arshad , Zia Shamail , Zia Fazail , Irfan Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Introduction. Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) is a rare subgroup of breast neoplasms associated with adverse outcomes because of its aggressive nature. Typically, MBCs show triple-negative hormone receptor (HR) status. Determining the HR status of breast cancer is an integral part because it is an important prognostic factor and helps in the treatment course of the disease. This study aimed to determine the HR status of MBC, its significance, and its association with various clinicopathological parameters. Methods. This was a retrospective study conducted at the Department of Histopathology, Liaquat National Hospital. A total of 140 biopsy-proven cases of MBC were enrolled in the study. Clinical and pathological data were retrieved from the institutes’ archives. Immunohistochemical studies were conducted to determine the estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status. Results. The mean age of MBC in our population was found to be 52.18 ± 12.19 years. The HR positivity rate in our population was found to be 32.9%. A significant association was found between HR status and tumor laterality, tumor size, tumor grade, tumor stage, and recurrence. ER/PR-negative MBCs were most probably associated with higher grade and higher tumor stage and were larger in size (6.62 ± 3.43 cm) than ER/PR-positive MBCs (4.20 ± 1.88 cm). Moreover, ER/PR-positive MBCs showed a higher recurrence rate than ER/PR-negative MBCs (43.5% vs. 25.5%, respectively). No statistically significant relationship was found between HR status and patient age, histological subtype, or survival rate. Conclusion. MBC is a rare breast neoplasm. MBC was found to be triple negative in most cases, but a significant percentage were HR (ER/PR) positive. Moreover, we found an association between HR status and various clinicopathological features, indicating that HR status is a significant predictor of MBC prognosis.
Implementation and Comparison of Wearable Exoskeleton Arm Design with Fuzzy Logic and Machine Learning Control
Authors: Ersin Çağatay , Yaz Mustafa
Published: April 2024

In this study, a wearable exoskeleton arm was designed and controlled with different control methods to help people with muscle disorders in their arms and support treatment. The developed robot arm was transferred to Simulink software with the Simmechanics application. Two electromyography (EMG) muscle sensors and the ADXL335 position and acceleration sensors attach to the human arm’s biceps and triceps muscle areas. As the human moved the arm, data were obtained from the EMG muscle sensors and the ADXL335 position and acceleration sensor. The received data were first trained with the fuzzy logic algorithm. The same data were then trained with machine learning algorithms in Simulink software. It has been determined that the best result is the quadratic support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. The fuzzy logic algorithm trained with the PID controller block and the received sensor data have been added to the degrees of freedom regions that will enable rotation in the block diagram of the previously exported system. Later, the fuzzy logic block was removed and the machine learning algorithm, the quadratic SVM algorithm, was added. The designed system was operated with two different control systems, and the control algorithm closest to the human arm movement was determined. In addition, each part of the system, whose design was prepared, was removed and assembled separately with a 3D printer. ESP32 microcontroller development board was used to control the system, and it was run in real-time with EMG muscle sensors and position sensors.
Longitudinal Monitoring of Biomechanical and Psychological State in Collegiate Female Basketball Athletes Using Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Keogh Joshua A. J. , Ruder Matthew C. , White Kaylee , Gavrilov Momchil G. , Phillips Stuart M. , Heisz Jennifer J. , Jordan Matthew J. , Kobsar Dylan
Published: April 2024

Background. The growth in participation in collegiate athletics has been accompanied by increased sport-related injuries. The complex and multifactorial nature of sports injuries highlights the importance of monitoring athletes prospectively using a novel and integrated biopsychosocial approach, as opposed to contemporary practices that silo these facets of health. Methods. Data collected over two competitive basketball seasons were used in a principal component analysis (PCA) model with the following objectives: (i) investigate whether biomechanical PCs (i.e., on-court and countermovement jump (CMJ) metrics) were correlated with psychological state across a season and (ii) explore whether subject-specific significant fluctuations could be detected using minimum detectable change statistics. Weekly CMJ (force plates) and on-court data (inertial measurement units), as well as psychological state (questionnaire) data, were collected on the female collegiate basketball team for two seasons. Results. While some relationships (n = 2) were identified between biomechanical PCs and psychological state metrics, the magnitude of these associations was weak (r = |0.18-0.19|, p<0.05), and no other overarching associations were identified at the group level. However, post-hoc case study analysis showed subject-specific relationships that highlight the potential utility of red-flagging meaningful fluctuations from normative biomechanical and psychological patterns. Conclusion. Overall, this work demonstrates the potential of advanced analytical modeling to characterize components of and detect statistically and clinically relevant fluctuations in student-athlete performance, health, and well-being and the need for more tailored and athlete-centered monitoring practices.
Thermal and Mechanical Performance of 3‐Phase Polymer Composite Panels for Structural Applications
Authors: Jilani Muhammad Zubair , Rehan Zulfiqar Ahmad , Ahmad Zuhaib , Jabbar Madeha , Nawab Yasir , Shaker Khubab
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to establish a conceptual framework for fiber‐reinforced polymer composite (FRPC) panels designed for structural purposes through the incorporation of a third phase (fillers). The present investigation was aimed to design and fabricate 3‐phase polymer composite panels that offer enhanced thermal insulation and strength while maintaining low material and labor expenses. Two types of fibrous reinforcements (jute fabric and glass fabric) of different origins were used as reinforcement; polypropylene (PP) was used as the matrix, and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was used as particle reinforcement material. The composite materials were fabricated with different MCC concentrations (0, 2 wt%, and 4 wt%), using a hot compression molding technique. It was found that MCC helped to enhance the mechanical performance of the composite panels, while the thermal conductivity showed a slight reduction due to lower concentrations of MCC used. For polypropylene/glass (PPG) composites, thermal conductivity was reduced from 0.214 to 0.193 W/m·K by the addition of 4% MCC fillers. Similarly, for polypropylene/jute (PPJ) composites, it was reduced from 0.14 to 0.126 W/m·K by 4% MCC fillers. The Charpy impact strength of both PPG and PPJ composites was enhanced by the addition of fillers, and the effect was more significant in the case of PPG (increased from 24.83 to 43.98 kJ/m2 for 4% fillers). Cost analysis of the composite panels was also done, showing PPJ panels to be slightly cheaper as compared to PPG. The findings indicate that the developed composite panels have the potential to serve as partitioning as well as the outer shield of the building due to their effective thermal and mechanical properties.
Predictors of Life Satisfaction: A Nationwide Investigation in Iran
Authors: Salehi Nasim , Joshanloo Mohsen , Lamont Scott , Whitehead Dean
Published: April 2024

Iran is a developing country with low levels of economic development and globalization and is ruled by a theocratic government. To address the lack of national research on well‐being in Iran, this retrospective observational study aims to examine life satisfaction and its main determinants among Iranian adults. Using World Gallup Poll data collected between 2006 and 2017, we examined life satisfaction as a cognitive aspect of subjective well‐being in relation to various factors. Our results show that income is the strongest predictor of life satisfaction, followed by standard of living, gender, social support, age, negative affect, and education. In developing countries such as Iran, which face significant economic, political, and social challenges, individuals prioritize the satisfaction of basic needs by emphasizing factors such as the socioeconomic status. In contrast, developed countries with established welfare systems may emphasize other values such as social connections and healthy lifestyle behaviors as key factors in life satisfaction. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the determinants of life satisfaction in Iran and provides insights for future research and policy making.
Implementation of Step‐Down Intermediate Care (IC) in Buckinghamshire, UK: A Qualitative Evaluation Study of Healthcare Professionals’ Experiences and Perspectives
Authors: Liapi Fani , Chater Angel Marie , Kenny Tina , Anderson Juliet , Randhawa Gurch , Pappas Yannis
Published: April 2024

Step‐down intermediate care aims to offer short‐term care for people who are medically optimised for discharge but needing a period for further assessment and/or rehabilitation. The aim of this study, which was nested in a larger evaluation project, was to explore the experiences and perspectives of healthcare professionals to understand the implementation of a step‐down IC service in Buckinghamshire, UK. The evidence is used to inform the service providers of what elements worked well and what areas require improvement. A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was conducted in May 2022. Ten healthcare professionals participated. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The following five core themes were developed: (1) the developmental period of step‐down IC, (2) providing care together, (3) perceived functions of the integrated hub, (4) communication, and (5) resources. Findings from the interviews highlighted the excellent working relationships among healthcare professionals from different disciplines, which contributed to their job satisfaction and the efficiency of the service. In addition, healthcare professionals stressed the importance of the integrated hub, as it facilitated the communication between the teams and speeded up the decision‐making. Several organisational challenges, such as communication issues, healthcare professionals’ capacity, and the need for further funding were also voiced. Involving staff in the evaluation of a step‐down intermediate care service has provided useful information on the service’s implementation process and will inform the development of a long‐term strategy for intermediate care.
A Multifunctionality Reconfigurable HMSIW Filter by Using EBG Structure and Diodes for C/X-Band Application
Authors: Pedram Kioumars , Sim Sanghoon
Published: April 2024

This letter presents a multifunctionality reconfigurable substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) filter embedded in a microstrip line. The proposed filter used an electromagnetic bandgap structure (EBG) to compact the size and improve the electromagnetic features. The SIW filter consists of a three-cell EBG with metallic circular-shaped connected to the ground through cylindrical vias. Firstly, the base SIW structure offers a wide passband filtering response, and then, to obtain selective passband, wide band rejection, and controllable resonance frequencies, a three-cell EBG along with four diodes has been attached. The filter is designed and printed on a Rogers 4003 substrate with a thickness of 1 mm and is experimentally validated for functionalities operated at three modes with an average 3 dB bandwidth of 115 MHz in each frequency. In addition to that, two transmission zeros (TZ) have been produced in the upper band frequency. The filter’s response is also tunable by turning the diode off or on and changing the main parameters of EBG, the gab, and the position between cells. The study explores resonance frequency alterations in a three-state system of on/off. By eliminating or diminishing specific modes, and incorporating diodes, distinct resonance behaviors are observed. Moreover, shifting frequency resonance in a multiparameter system has been investigated. Increasing B1 induces a significant shift to lower values, while an increase in D1 leads to a decrease in the first and second resonance frequencies and an upward shift in the third. The designed filter has been fabricated and tested to compare and confirm simulated responses. Simulation and measurement results are in good agreement. The S-parameters of measured results gained a good response (>15 dB) within the passbands and stopbands and an insertion loss of 1.5 dB suitable for 5G and Wi-Fi systems.
Supplementary Table 2 from The Associations between Intakes of One-Carbon Metabolism–Related Vitamins and Breast Density among Young Women
Authors: Han Eunyoung , Van Horn Linda , Snetselaar Linda , Shepherd John A. , Park Yoon Jung , Kim Hyesook , Jung Seungyoun , Dorgan Joanne F.
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Table 2 show the results of association between �V and ADBV according to quartiles of one-carbon metabolism-related vitamin intakes during young adulthood adjusted for youth intakes
Supplementary Methods S1 from Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of MUC1 Peptide Vaccine for Prevention of Recurrent Colorectal Adenoma
Authors: Schoen Robert E. , Boardman Lisa A. , Cruz-Correa Marcia , Bansal Ajay , Kastenberg David , Hur Chin , Dzubinski Lynda , Kaufman Sharon F. , Rodriguez Luz M. , Richmond Ellen , Umar Asad , Szabo Eva , Salazar Andres , McKolanis John , Beatty Pamela , Pai Reetesh K. , Singhi Aatur D. , Jacqueline Camille M. , Bao Riyue , Diergaarde Brenda , McMurray Ryan P. , Strand Carrie , Foster Nathan R. , Zahrieh David M. , Limburg Paul J. , Finn Olivera J.
Published: April 2024

supplementary methods: trial administration
Supplementary Materials and Methods S1 from NPY Methylated ctDNA is a Promising Biomarker for Treatment Response Monitoring in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Janssens Katleen , Vanhoutte Greetje , Lybaert Willem , Demey Wim , Decaestecker Jochen , Hendrickx Koen , Rezaei Kalantari Hassan , Zwaenepoel Karen , Pauwels Patrick , Fransen Erik , Op de Beeck Ken , Van Camp Guy , Rolfo Christian , Peeters Marc
Published: April 2024

1. Eligibility criteria - Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria; 2. ddPCR methodology
Supplementary Figure S3 from NPY Methylated ctDNA is a Promising Biomarker for Treatment Response Monitoring in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Janssens Katleen , Vanhoutte Greetje , Lybaert Willem , Demey Wim , Decaestecker Jochen , Hendrickx Koen , Rezaei Kalantari Hassan , Zwaenepoel Karen , Pauwels Patrick , Fransen Erik , Op de Beeck Ken , Van Camp Guy , Rolfo Christian , Peeters Marc
Published: April 2024

Kaplan Meier curve for overall survival.
Supplementary Figure S1 from Influence of Genomic Landscape on Cancer Immunotherapy for Newly Diagnosed Ovarian Cancer: Biomarker Analyses from the IMagyn050 Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Landen Charles N. , Molinero Luciana , Hamidi Habib , Sehouli Jalid , Miller Austin , Moore Kathleen N. , Taskiran Cagatay , Bookman Michael , Lindemann Kristina , Anderson Charles , Berger Regina , Myers Tashanna , Beiner Mario , Reid Thomas , Van Nieuwenhuysen Els , Green Andrew , Okamoto Aikou , Aghajanian Carol , Thaker Premal H. , Blank Stephanie V. , Khor Victor K. , Chang Ching-Wei , Lin Yvonne G. , Pignata Sandro
Published: April 2024

CCNE1 amplifications are mutually exclusive with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
Data from BRD9 Degradation Disrupts Ribosome Biogenesis in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Kurata Keiji , Samur Mehmet K. , Liow Priscilla , Wen Kenneth , Yamamoto Leona , Liu Jiye , Morelli Eugenio , Gulla Annamaria , Tai Yu-Tzu , Qi Jun , Hideshima Teru , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: April 2024

AbstractPurpose:
BRD9 is a defining component of the noncanonical SWI/SNF complex, which regulates gene expression by controlling chromatin dynamics. Although recent studies have found an oncogenic role for BRD9 in multiple cancer types including multiple myeloma, its clinical significance and oncogenic mechanism have not yet been elucidated. Here, we sought to identify the clinical and biological impact of BRD9 in multiple myeloma, which may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Experimental Design:
We performed integrated analyses of BRD9 in vitro and in vivo using multiple myeloma cell lines and primary multiple myeloma cells in established preclinical models, which identified the molecular functions of BRD9 contributing to multiple myeloma cell survival.
Results:
We found that high BRD9 expression was a poor prognostic factor in multiple myeloma. Depleting BRD9 by genetic (shRNA) and pharmacologic (dBRD9-A; proteolysis-targeting chimera; BRD9 degrader) approaches downregulated ribosome biogenesis genes, decreased the expression of the master regulator MYC, and disrupted the protein-synthesis maintenance machinery, thereby inhibiting multiple myeloma cell growth in vitro and in vivo in preclinical models. Importantly, we identified that the expression of ribosome biogenesis genes was associated with the disease progression and prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma. Our results suggest that BRD9 promotes gene expression by predominantly occupying the promoter regions of ribosome biogenesis genes and cooperating with BRD4 to enhance the transcriptional function of MYC.
Conclusions:
Our study identifies and validates BRD9 as a novel therapeutic target in preclinical models of multiple myeloma, which provides the framework for the clinical evaluation of BRD9 degraders to improve patient outcome.
FIGURE 1 from Versican Associates with Tumor Immune Phenotype and Limits T-cell Trafficking via Chondroitin Sulfate
Authors: Hirani Priyanka , McDermott Jacqueline , Rajeeve Vinothini , Cutillas Pedro R. , Jones J. Louise , Pennington Daniel J. , Wight Thomas N. , Santamaria Salvatore , Alonge Kimberly M. , Pearce Oliver M.T.
Published: April 2024

Determining the immune phenotype of tumor tissues. A total of 26 TNBC tissues were analyzed for the TIP. A, Annotation of slide on QuPath for analysis of the four regions: Stroma, Outer Invasive, Inner Invasive, and Tumor Core. Number of cells per mm2 and VCAN percentage were counted in these regions. B, Box plot showing desert tissues under the lower quartile. C, Comparison of cells in the stromal zone and epithelial zone to determine excluded and inflamed tissues. Line indicates a ratio of 0.75. D, Pie charts showing distribution of phenotypes for 26 tissues. Table showing phenotype per tissue for CD8+ T cells and CD68+ macrophages. E, Pie charts showing phenotypes within each tissue. Graphs comparing levels of CD8+ T cells in the epithelial zone (EZ) and stromal zone (SZ).
Sensorimotor Integration in Patients with Voice Disorders: A Scoping Review of Behavioral Research
Authors: Nudelman Charles J.
Published: April 2024

Background: In recent years, research has determined that impaired sensorimotor integration is a contributor to the formation of voice symptoms and voice disorders. A scoping review is undertaken to explore the current state of scientific research regarding behavioral examinations of sensorimotor integration impairments in patients. Summary: Following the guidelines of the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews, five online databases identified papers published between 2000 and 2023, from which 17 publications were selected that used sensorimotor integration paradigms with voice-related acoustics as an outcome variable in individuals diagnosed with a voice disorder. Across the 17 studies, sensorimotor integration was behaviorally examined via auditory-motor paradigms in 315 patients with voice disorders and 344 controls. Broadly, patients with vocal hyperfunction demonstrated impaired auditory-motor and somatosensory-motor integration. Patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis demonstrated impaired sensorimotor integration attributed to changes in the primary brain areas of speech motor control. Patients with laryngeal dystonia demonstrated varying results, with no conclusive evidence regarding sensorimotor integration in behavioral voicing tasks. Patients with Parkinson’s disease demonstrated varying results as well, with a general trend of increased dependance on the feedback control system of voice production. Patients with ataxic dysarthria demonstrated that auditory feedback control was impaired possibly due to inaccurate error estimation and correction arising from the damage to their cerebellar pathways. Finally, patients with cerebellar degeneration demonstrated disruptions in both feedback and feed-forward control. Key Messages: Sensorimotor integration in the context of voice disorders is an important consideration in understanding how different sensory streams operate in healthy voice production, and how sensory feedback can be optimized in clinical treatments of voice disorders. The present scoping review reveals that behavioral research has focused primarily on auditory-motor integration paradigms, and this supports the possibility of a disconnect between these behavioral studies and existing theoretical conceptualizations of vocal motor control.
ЧИ СКЛАДНО РОЗПІЗНАТИ БАРТОНЕЛЬОЗ?
Authors: Копча В. С.
Published: April 2024

Описано випадки хвороби котячої подряпини (ХКП), один з яких перебігав типово з чіткими анамнестичними відомостями про подряпину котячим кігтем, класичною тріадою симптомів – первинним афектом, реґіонарним лімфаденітом, явищами інфекційної інтоксикації. Диференціювання з іншими органічними причинами та відповідні лабораторні аналізи дали змогу встановити діагноз й успішно вилікувати хвору.

Складнощі становлять випадки атипового перебігу захворювання (окулогландулярний, неврологічний чи системний варіант), а також коли анамнестичних вказівок на контакт із котами та первинного афекту немає. За таких обставин, враховуючи відсутність специфічності лімфаденіту, доводиться виключати чимало причин для виникнення реґіонарного збільшення лімфатичного вузла.