bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe subacute onset sensorimotor polyneuropathy associated with brentuximab vedotin treatment for refractory classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Authors: McNicholas Nuala , Hiew Hwai Jing , Arunachalam Ramamurthy , Osman Chinar
Published: November 2024

A man in his 30s with a history of refractory classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma presented with subacute onset asymmetric sensory disturbance, and severe weakness affecting his right more than left hand. Symptom onset was 18 weeks after commencing brentuximab vedotin (BV) treatment, an anti-CD30 antibody drug-conjugate for relapsed/refractory classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Symptoms progressed to his lower limbs with distal sensory loss, gait imbalance, bilateral foot drop and mild proximal leg weakness. He was globally areflexic. Neurophysiology revealed a mildly asymmetric, non-length dependent, motor >sensory polyradiculoneuropathy, with mixed axonal and demyelinating features. Extensive laboratory work-up, lumbar puncture and MRI of the brachial plexus, brain, spine and chest were unremarkable. Treatment with plasma exchange, followed by intravenous immunoglobulin, resulted in objective clinical improvement 4 weeks after. BV is a potent antimicrotubule agent, thus well known to cause a length-dependent sensory axonal polyneuropathy. Demyelinating polyneuropathy, with more prominent motor involvement, in association with BV is much rarer.
Perceptions, attitudes and beliefs on antenatal exercises among primiparous pregnant women: a qualitative study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Chathurika Sepalage Nilanthi , Rathnayake Chathura , Nanayakkara Deepika Indumathie , Thennakoon Sampath Udaya Bandara , Rathnayake Abey
Published: November 2024

Background

Even if promoting antenatal exercises is an evolving concept worldwide, there is a scarcity of qualitative exploratory studies which directly focus on pregnant mothers’ views about exercises. So, this study was designed to (1) explore pregnant women’s perceptions, attitudes and beliefs about antenatal exercises, and (2) provide significant annotations prior to constituting interventions for antenatal exercises.

Methods

A qualitative survey was carried out with 19 primiparous pregnant women using stratified purposive sampling at the antenatal clinic, in a tertiary care hospital, Sri Lanka. In-depth interviews were conducted through a predesigned, semistructured interview guide from January to April 2021. Data were transcribed, examined and organised, then subjected to thematic analysis using inductive approach.

Results

Most of the pregnant women described numerous benefits and had optimistic views on exercises. However, the absence of a comprehensive understanding on the impact of exercise on a healthy pregnancy is apparent, primarily caused by a dearth of health education and reliable information sources. Also, they were unlikely to initiate exercises in their pregnancy period due to a lack of guidance through the antenatal clinic and/or health professionals. Concerning beliefs, main stream-believed exercises provide assistance for normal labour process and exercises advantageous in both antenatal and post-partum periods. Besides, few of them restricted their conversations on the drawbacks of exercises by illuminating erroneous beliefs.

Conclusions

The majority of participants realised the importance of exercises and had positive attitudes while the minority presenting misconceptions. The need for healthcare providers’ support and guidance is highly anticipated by pregnant women to engage in antenatal exercises.
Assessing global access to continuing professional development for rehabilitation professionals: a mixed methods study of current practices and perceived needs
Authors: Cunningham Shala , Lowe Rachael , Footer Cheryl , Mon Oo Hsu Wai , Omoding Herbert , Kovalchuk Olha , Zehra Neelum , Bachani Abdulgafoor M
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to understand the current state of continuing professional development (CPD) for rehabilitation professionals globally and identify perceived requirements to enhance education to guide efforts to develop internationally relevant, interprofessional, rehabilitation coursework adaptable to the various professions and contexts to support workforce development.

Design

This was a mixed methods, exploratory study. A convenience sample of rehabilitation professionals received surveys regarding current access to CPD and the perceived needs for additional resources to support professional development. Semistructured interviews were performed with select participants.

Setting

Surveys were distributed online, while interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams or telephone, depending on the participants’ access.

Participants

A total of 445 professionals completed the survey. Additionally, interviews were performed with 104 participants from Myanmar, Pakistan, Uganda and Ukraine to clarify and expand on survey responses.

Results

The CPD requirements for practising clinicians and regulation of CPD activities varied widely across countries and professions. Participants expressed a need for additional resources and educational opportunities, particularly for multidisciplinary rehabilitation focusing on neurological conditions. However, there were multiple barriers to accessing technological resources and professional development in low and middle-income countries that must be navigated alongside low engagement and motivation for lifelong learning.

Conclusion

There is an opportunity to enhance global rehabilitation workforce development by fostering partnerships focused on the efficient delivery of training. This includes developing CPD programmes that consider cultural contexts, patient populations, and practice settings. Support for CPD can be improved through both internal and external motivators and by regulating CPD activities to ensure effective, evidence-based practice.
TPX2 serves as a novel target for expanding the utility of PARPi in pancreatic cancer through conferring synthetic lethality
Authors: Xiao Mingming , Tang Rong , Pan Haoqi , Yang Jing , Tong Xuhui , Xu He , Guo Yanmei , Lei Yalan , Wu Di , Lei Yubin , Han Yamei , Ma Zhilong , Wang Wei , Xu Jin , Yu Xianjun , Shi Si
Published: November 2024

Background

PARP inhibitors (PARPi) have been licensed for the maintenance therapy of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer carrying pathogenic germline BRCA1/2 mutations. However, mutations in BRCA1/2 are notably rare in pancreatic cancer.

Objective

There is a significant unmet clinical need to broaden the utility of PARPi.

Design

RNA sequencing was performed to screen potential targets for PARPi sensitivity. The synthetic lethal effects were verified in patient-derived xenograft (PDX), xenograft and patient-derived organoid models. Mechanisms were explored via LC‒MS/MS, coimmunoprecipitation, laser microirradiation, immunofluorescence, the homologous recombination (HR) or non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) reporter system, in situ proximity ligation assay and live-cell time-lapse imaging analyses.

Results

Targeting protein for Xenopus kinesin-like protein 2 (TPX2) is an exploitable vulnerability. TPX2 was downregulated in PDX models sensitive to PARPi, and TPX2 inhibition conferred synthetic lethality to PARPi bothin vitroandin vivo. Mechanistically, TPX2 functions in a cell cycle-dependent manner. In the S/G2 phase, ATM-mediated TPX2 S634 phosphorylation promotes BRCA1 recruitment to double-strand breaks (DSBs) for HR repair, whereas non-phosphorylated TPX2 interacts with 53BP1 to recruit it for NHEJ. The balance between phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated TPX2 determines the DSB repair pathway choice. During mitosis, TPX2 phosphorylation enhances Aurora A activity, promoting mitotic progression and chromosomal stability. Targeting TPX2 S634 phosphorylation with a cell-penetrating peptide causes genomic instability and mitotic catastrophe and enhances PARPi sensitivity. Additionally, the inhibition of TPX2 or S634 phosphorylation combined with gemcitabine further sensitised pancreatic cancer to PARPi.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed the dual-functional significance of TPX2 in controlling DNA DSB repair pathway choice and mitotic progression, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy involving PARPi for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Editorial: Vicinagearth Safety
Authors: Nie Feiping , Duan Haibin
Published: November 2024

As the global economy progresses and environmental challenges intensify, the risks to human safety escalate. In response to these mounting concerns, the Vicinagearth Safety (VS) framework has been introduced. This framework encompasses low-altitude, underwater, and cross-domain safety, addressing environmental, technological, and near-ground threats. The primary objective of VS is to develop proactive measures to mitigate these risks and ensure community well-being through interdisciplinary collaboration among experts in environmental science, engineering, social science, technology, and policy. The cross integration of various disciplines and technological fields, such as energy and power, is of great significance for national defense security, social stability, and economic development. This editorial highlights the cutting-edge advancements in the methods and technologies associated with Vicinagearth Safety and outlines significant directions for future research in this critical field.
Deep Configuration Performance Learning: A Systematic Survey and Taxonomy
Authors: Gong Jingzhi , Chen Tao
Published: November 2024

Performance is arguably the most crucial attribute that reflects the quality of a configurable software system. However, given the increasing scale and complexity of modern software, modeling and predicting how various configurations can impact performance becomes one of the major challenges in software maintenance. As such, performance is often modeled without having a thorough knowledge of the software system, but relying mainly on data, which fits precisely with the purpose of deep learning. In this article, we conduct a comprehensive review exclusively on the topic of deep learning for performance learning of configurable software, covering 1,206 searched papers spanning six indexing services, based on which 99 primary papers were extracted and analyzed. Our results outline key statistics, taxonomy, strengths, weaknesses, and optimal usage scenarios for techniques related to the preparation of configuration data, the construction of deep learning performance models, the evaluation of these models, and their utilization in various software configuration-related tasks. We also identify the good practices and potentially problematic phenomena from the studies surveyed, together with a comprehensive summary of actionable suggestions and insights into future opportunities within the field. To promote open science, all the raw results of this survey can be accessed at our repository:
https://github.com/ideas-labo/DCPL-SLR
.
Biological Control of Aphids in China: Successes and Prospects
Authors: Liu Tong-Xian , Chen Xue-Xin
Published: November 2024

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects, and many are notorious pests of field crops, vegetables, fruit trees, ornamental plants, and trees. In China, there is an increasing emphasis on utilizing biological control agents, including aphidopathogenics, and selective pesticides for the management of aphids. In particular, preventive integrated pest management strategies with early interventions reduce the financial and environmental costs associated with treatments of outbreaks. Decades of progress have proved that biological control is a cost-effective and environmentally safe control option. Here, we review the history and progress of aphid control, with an emphasis on major natural enemies, mass-rearing, and conservation, and provide two successful cases, constraints, and future perspectives on aphid biological control in China.
Obesogenic cafeteria diet induces dynamic changes in gut microbiota, reduces myenteric neuron excitability, and impairs gut contraction in mice
Authors: Ramírez-Maldonado Luis M. , Guerrero-Castro Julio , Rodríguez-Mejía José L. , Cárdenas-Conejo Yair , Bonales-Alatorre Edgar O. , Valencia-Cruz Georgina , Anguiano-García Paulina T. , Vega-Juárez Irving I. , Dagnino-Acosta Adán , Ruvalcaba-Galindo Jessica , Valdez-Morales Eduardo E. , Ochoa-Cortes Fernando , Barajas-Espinosa Alma , Guerrero-Alba Raquel , Liñán-Rico Andrómeda
Published: November 2024

The gut microbiota changes gradually following the consumption of CAF diet. An increase in Clostridia and Proteobacteria is a hallmark of dysbiosis at the early onset of gut inflammation and obesity. The CAF diet was effective in inducing intestinal low-grade inflammation and alterations in myenteric neuronal excitability in mice. CAF diet is a reliable strategy to study the interplay between gut dysbiosis and low-grade inflammation, in addition to the mechanisms underlying gastrointestinal dysmotility associated with obesity.
Topical Vitamin D3 Derivative (Calcipotriol) Versus Intralesional Vitamin D3 in the Treatment of Cutaneous Warts
Authors: Almuhyi Rand A. , Alhamdi Khalil I. , Alhamdi Dooha K.
Published: November 2024

Background: Cutaneous warts are epidermal proliferations caused by human papillomavirus. There are a variety of treatment options for warts with different success rates. Intralesional vitamin D3 injection is an innovative treatment option for warts, and several studies have examined its efficacy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the two modalities of vitamin D3 in wart treatment.

Objective: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of topical vitamin D3 derivative (calcipotriol) and intralesional vitamin D3 in the treatment of warts.

Patients and Methods: This is an open‐label, therapeutic, comparative, clinical study involving 56 patients with warts. The patients were randomly divided into two equal groups (n = 28). Group A was treated with topical calcipotriol ointment (0.005%) twice daily for a period of 8 weeks, while Group B was treated with intralesional injection of 0.2–0.3 mL of vitamin D3 (300,000 I.U. per ampule) for 4 sessions (2 weeks apart). The patients were followed every 2 weeks during treatment and then 3 months after the last visit.

Results: The percentage of patients who showed a complete response in Group A was higher than that of Group B (95% vs. 59%). Furthermore, 9 patients out of 13 (69.2%) who showed a complete response in Group B required a period of 8 weeks, while only 2 patients out of 21 (9.5%) in Group A required the same period. In addition, side effects were more in Group B. Moreover, no recurrence was observed in Group A, while in Group B, it was seen in 2 (11%) patients.

Conclusions: Both topical and intralesional vitamin D3 are effective in the treatment of warts, with topical vitamin D3 having better efficacy, faster, less side effects, and less risk of recurrence.
Self‐Management and Its Associated Factors Among People Living With HIV at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Jara Abdisa Gemedi , Tekle Masho Tigabe , Sema Faisel Dula , Mekonen Banchamlak Teferi , Ergena Asrat Elias , Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu , Gebremariam Saron Naji , Abebe Rahel Belete , Belachew Eyayaw Ashete , Tafese Abenezer Melaku , Mehari Eden Abetu
Published: November 2024

Background: Self‐management (SM) is the gold standard of care and is the direct active participation of patients in their disease management. Condition‐specific factors, physical and social environment, individual and family, and the process of SM are factors that influence SM in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). Poor SM leads to high retroviral infection transmission, mortality, and morbidity.

Objective: This study was aimed at assessing SM and its associated factors among PLHIV at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UOGCSH), Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods: A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a systematic random sampling technique at the UOGCSH from May 20 to July 30, 2022. The data were collected using a previously validated tool and were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 25. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with poor SM. The statistical significance was considered at a p value < 0.05.

Result: Of 419 PLHIV, the median (IQR) SM score was 39 (9), and above half (52.6%, 95% CI: 48%–57%) of them had poor SM. Being unemployed (AOR = 2.49, 95%CI = 1.19, 5.19), living alone (AOR = 2.16, 95%CI = 1.12, 4.17), unfamiliar with the management of HIV‐related symptoms (AOR = 3.59, 95%CI = 2.08, 6.20), poor social support (AOR = 3.02, 95%CI = 1.54, 5.93), poor self‐efficacy (AOR = 3.04, 95%CI = 1.83, 5.06), and unsupported by the adherence support group (AOR = 17.17, 95%CI = 8.37, 35.22) were significantly associated with poor SM.

Conclusion: The majority of PLHIV had poor SM. This study supports the findings of individual family SM theory and previously published studies regarding factors affecting SM. The government, hospital, adherence support groups, and PLHIV should work on modifiable sociodemographic, condition‐specific, and process of SM to improve SM of PLHIV.
Impulsivity, Digital Maturity, and Morality of Pakistani TikTok Users
Authors: Gulzar Tahniyat , Nazir Arooj , Mehmood Haziq , Noureen Amna
Published: November 2024

TikTok, a popular social media network, has gained an immense worldwide following because of its entertaining short video format. The main aim of this study was to understand the dynamic association between the variables TikTok addiction, impulsivity, digital maturity, and morality in young adults. For this purpose, a quantitative study with a correlational research design was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to select 423 TikTok users from private universities, with 209 males and 214 females included. The data was collected through the TikTok Addiction Scale, which has been adapted from the Social Media Addiction Scale (Sahin, 2018), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale Version 11 (Barratt et al., 1995), the multidimensional Digital Maturity Inventory (Laaber et al., 2023), and the Moral Character Questionnaire (Furr et al., 2022). The results showed a strong significant positive relationship between TikTok addiction and impulsivity, but significant negative correlation with digital maturity and morality. Impulsivity had a strong significant negative relationship with digital maturity and morality, whereas digital maturity had a strong positive relationship with morality. The results of this study can be helpful in raising awareness about the adverse effects of TikTok addiction and in promoting digital literacy through workshops or seminars.
Cryptosporidiosis in a Zoonotic Gastrointestinal Disorder Perspective
Authors: Balendran Thivya , Iddawela Devika , Lenadora Sajanee
Published: November 2024

Cryptosporidium infection is highly prevalent among immunocompromised patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, cancer, primary immunodeficiency, and organ transplant recipients. Comprehensive knowledge about Cryptosporidium infection provides the means for efficient diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Therefore, with the objective of providing an in‐depth analysis of Cryptosporidiosis in immunocompromised patients, this review presents a comprehensive understating of the prevalence, risk factors, pathophysiology of Cryptosporidium infection, clinical presentation in the immunocompromised, the immune response of the host, diagnostic methods performed in laboratory settings, possible treatments, and prevention methods, which can be used for further studies. Peer‐reviewed, published, original articles on cryptosporidiosis in immunocompromised patients were searched using specific key‐words on PubMed, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases. Articles which were accessible to the date of 18th of August 2023, were included in this comprehensive review. We analyzed reports on Cryptosporidium in immunocompromised patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), cancer, primary immunodeficiency, and organ transplant recipients. 134 Articles describing epidemiology, related risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and possible treatments in the light of pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and virulence factors of Cryptosporidium and immunology of the host are summarized in this study. Effective treatments to be administered, importance, and ways of prevention were identified. Cryptosporidium infection was found to be highly prevalent among immunocompromised in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. The immunity of the host and the decrease in CD4+ T‐cell count were found to the main factors which decide the susceptibility and the severity of infection. Drugs that activate host immunity and suppress Cryptosporidium growth, along with supportive therapy, is an effective treatment. But prevention is the most effective strategy for immunocompromised patients; thus, a better understanding about the disease would lead to effective prevention.
Association between Socioeconomic Position of the Family and Adolescent Obesity in Germany—Analysis of the Mediating Role of Familial Determinants
Authors: Blume Miriam , Schienkiewitz Anja , Wollgast Lina , Hoffmann Stephanie , Sander Lydia , Spallek Jacob , Herr Raphael M. , Moor Irene , Pischke Claudia R. , Iashchenko Iryna , Hövener Claudia , Rattay Petra
Published: November 2024

Background. Obesity’s negative impact on young people’s health has long been known. The family and its socioeconomic position (SEP) are key determinants in adolescent obesity. However, understanding which familial determinants explain the association remains limited. Method. The analyses are based on data from the “German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents” (KiGGS) (1,384 females and 1,332 males aged 11 to 17 years). Logistic regression models explored how familial determinants (family stress, family cohesion, parental smoking, parental sporting activity, and parental overweight) mediated the association between family SEP (parental education, occupational status, and household income) and adolescent obesity. Results. Significant total effects for the associations between family SEP in childhood and adolescent obesity were found. Splitting the total effect of the family SEP on obesity into direct and indirect effects, all direct effects turned out to be significant. However, all associations involved also indirect effects of familial determinants, except for household income for female adolescents. Parental smoking and overweight were the most relevant mediators for males and females. For male adolescents, parental sporting activity additionally mediated the association between SEP and obesity. Conclusion. A low SEP in childhood was associated with adolescent obesity. Parental health and health behaviors partly explained the association. For increasing health equality in adolescent health, the consideration of parental health behavior in the planning and implementation of health promotion programs seem to be important.
A Test for Discriminating Between Members of the Odd Weibull‐G Family of Distributions
Authors: Makubate Boikanyo
Published: November 2024

The Odd Weibull‐G (OWG) family of distributions has been discussed earlier in the literature. This family of distributions provides a “better fit” in certain practical situations. In a similar fashion, the OWG family of distributions is defined in this article. A method of moments estimator based on the maximum entropy principle is proposed for the discrimination of two members of the OWG family of distributions.
Supplementary Table S2 from Durvalumab ± Tremelimumab + Platinum-Etoposide in Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (CASPIAN): Outcomes by PD-L1 Expression and Tissue Tumor Mutational Burden
Authors: Paz-Ares Luis , Garassino Marina Chiara , Chen Yuanbin , Reinmuth Niels , Hotta Katsuyuki , Poltoratskiy Artem , Trukhin Dmytro , Hochmair Maximilian J. , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Ji Jun Ho , Statsenko Galina , Conev Nikolay , Bondarenko Igor , Havel Libor , Losonczy György , Xie Mingchao , Lai Zhongwu , Godin-Heymann Nadia , Mann Helen , Jiang Haiyi , Shrestha Yashaswi , Goldman Jonathan W.
Published: November 2024

Representativeness of study participants.
Supplementary Figure S6 from Durvalumab ± Tremelimumab + Platinum-Etoposide in Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (CASPIAN): Outcomes by PD-L1 Expression and Tissue Tumor Mutational Burden
Authors: Paz-Ares Luis , Garassino Marina Chiara , Chen Yuanbin , Reinmuth Niels , Hotta Katsuyuki , Poltoratskiy Artem , Trukhin Dmytro , Hochmair Maximilian J. , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Ji Jun Ho , Statsenko Galina , Conev Nikolay , Bondarenko Igor , Havel Libor , Losonczy György , Xie Mingchao , Lai Zhongwu , Godin-Heymann Nadia , Mann Helen , Jiang Haiyi , Shrestha Yashaswi , Goldman Jonathan W.
Published: November 2024

Subgroup analysis of PFS by tTMB for (A) durvalumab plus EP versus EP and (B) durvalumab plus tremelimumab plus EP versus EP. In each panel, the shaded band shows the confidence interval for the ITT population; circle sizes are proportional to the number of events.
Supplementary Figure S5 from Durvalumab ± Tremelimumab + Platinum-Etoposide in Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (CASPIAN): Outcomes by PD-L1 Expression and Tissue Tumor Mutational Burden
Authors: Paz-Ares Luis , Garassino Marina Chiara , Chen Yuanbin , Reinmuth Niels , Hotta Katsuyuki , Poltoratskiy Artem , Trukhin Dmytro , Hochmair Maximilian J. , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Ji Jun Ho , Statsenko Galina , Conev Nikolay , Bondarenko Igor , Havel Libor , Losonczy György , Xie Mingchao , Lai Zhongwu , Godin-Heymann Nadia , Mann Helen , Jiang Haiyi , Shrestha Yashaswi , Goldman Jonathan W.
Published: November 2024

Kaplan-Meier analysis of OS in the ITT population and the tTMB BEP.
Table 1 from Intraoperative Guidance of Pancreatic Cancer Resection Using a Toll-like Receptor 2–Targeted Fluorescence Molecular Imaging Agent
Authors: Huynh Amanda S. , Cohen Allison S. , Doligalski Michael , Casagni Todd J. , Moberg Valerie E. , Huang Xuan , Morse Jennifer , Abrahams Dominique , Lloyd Mark C. , Centeno Barbara A. , Baldwin Margaret K. , McLaughlin Mark L. , Vagner Josef , Morse David L.
Published: November 2024

Nonlinear regression analyses of clearance of 100 nmol/kg TLR2-800 in TLR2-negative tissues and TLR2-positive tumors
Burden of Disease and Cost of Illness of Overweight and Obesity in Portugal
Authors: Borges Margarida , Sampaio Filipa , Costa João , Freitas Paula , Matias Dias Carlos , Gaio Vânia , Conde Vasco , Figueira Débora , Pinheiro Bernardete , Silva Miguel Luís
Published: November 2024

Introduction: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased in the last decades, posing significant health and economic impacts globally. These conditions are related to several non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and cancer. This study estimated the disease burden and healthcare costs associated with overweight and obesity in the adult population in mainland Portugal, in 2018. Method: Burden of disease was measured in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) following Global Burden of Disease (GBD) methodology. DALYs were calculated as the sum of years of life lost (YLL) and years lived with disability (YLD). The analyses included morbidity, mortality, and related costs directly related to overweight and obesity, as well as the attributable morbidity, mortality, and related costs of 25 selected diseases related to obesity (DrO). A prevalence-based cost analysis was conducted a from the perspective of the public National Health Service, including costs related to inpatient, outpatient care, and pharmacological treatment. Results: In 2018, total DALY amounted to 260,943, with 75% due to premature death (196,438 YLL) and 25% due to disability (64,505 YLD). The economic burden of overweight and obesity was estimated at approximately EUR 1,148 million. Of these, approximately EUR 13.3 million (1%) were costs related to the treatment of obesity, and the remaining were costs of DrO attributed to overweight and obesity. Outpatient care corresponded to 43% of total costs, pharmacological treatment 38%, and inpatient care 19%. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases were the largest contributor to total costs (38%), followed by type II diabetes (34%). Conclusion: Overweight and obesity incur a large disease and economic burden to the public healthcare sector, representing approximately 0.6% of the countryʼs gross domestic product and 5.8% of public health expenditures.
Economic and Efficient: Introducing the Bifurcation-Invisible Sign in Endovascular Thrombectomy for Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusions
Authors: Zhao Bingyang , Wang Congping , Liang Wenzhao , Zhao Zhongyu , Mang Jing
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Selecting thrombectomy techniques for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion significantly affects outcomes and costs. This study introduces the Bifurcation-Invisible (BI) sign identified on initial microcatheter angiogram in acute middle cerebral artery occlusions before endovascular thrombectomy. We aimed to evaluate whether this sign is associated with better angiographic outcomes using contact aspiration (CA) versus stent retriever (SR). Methods: In this study, we reviewed 285 cases of acute M1-segment middle cerebral artery (M1-MCA) occlusions treated with SR or CA. Angiographic success was evaluated using modified Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) scores after the first attempt, clinical outcomes by 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores, and procedural costs were analyzed. Categorical variables were analyzed using χ2 or Fisher’s exact test, and continuous variables using Student’s t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Subgroup multivariate logistic analysis and interaction tests were conducted, with post hoc analysis applying Bonferroni correction. Results: BI-positive patients treated with CA had higher first-pass reperfusion rates (mTICI 2b-3: 64.0% vs. 41.3%, p = 0.005; Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.030) and 19.8% lower device costs (p < 0.05) than those treated with SR. BI-positive CA patients had higher first-pass reperfusion rates (mTICI 2b-3: 64.0% vs. 32.1%; p < 0.001; Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.002) and a 39.9% reduction in device costs (p < 0.05) than BI-negative patients. The interaction tests showed significant interactions between the presence of BI and CA for first-pass reperfusion rates (p = 0.007) and device costs (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The BI sign, a refined version of the branching-site occlusion sign identified via microcatheter angiography, could guide the selection of CA, improving recanalization rates and reducing costs in MCA occlusions.
A segurança do Japão e os Estados Unidos da América
Authors: Watanabe Paulo Daniel
Published: November 2024

Since the end of World War II the issues regarding Japan’s security and defense have been discussed as a natural continuation of the American Foreign Policy. Although Japan is said to decide its own foreign policy by itself after getting back its sovereignty in the 50’s，Washington has always been deciding along with Japan and justifying its acts on the conflicting international system. At the end of World War II the Cold War was the main reason for the USA to take part almost by itself in the protection of the Japanese archipelago* Nowadays，Japan is still constitutionally prohibited from maintaining conventional armed forces having to delegate this mission to the USA, which has military bases on Okinawa Island- The negative impacts of this policy are already felt by Japan especially under the constant threats from North Korea and the military and economic growth of China. After the attacks of September 11th 2001，new government leaders have been trying to make Japan less dependent on the USA. Washington will not abandon its regional policy，as shown by Prime Minister Hatoyama’s fall. For some authors，Japan must have independent deterrence ways to guarantee its security and integrity in a still hostile environment shaped by the disasters of Japan's imperialist era. This article intends to analyze the evolution of Japan's defense policy since the occupation of the Allied Powers.
A Firm of One's Own: Experimental Evidence on Credit Constraints and Occupational Choice
Authors: Brudevold-Newman Andrew , Honorati Maddalena , Ipapa Gerald , Jakiela Pamela , Ozier Owen
Published: November 2024

We evaluate two interventions targeting young women in Nairobi, Kenya. The first is a multifaceted program involving vocational training, in-kind transfers of physical capital, and ongoing mentoring. The second is an unrestricted cash grant. Both interventions shift women into self-employment, and impacts persist after six years. Both programs also increase income in the short-term, but those effects disappear over time. Though the two treatments have similar impacts on labor market outcomes, women in the multifaceted program report significantly higher wellbeing six years after treatment relative to both women in the control group and those who received the grants.
An Exploratory Study of Capacity Assessment in Medical Practice in Ireland
Authors: Spain Eimear , Davidson Hope , O’Donnell Patrick , Jalali Amirhossein , McKittrick Seoidin , Leo Roisin
Published: November 2024

The current legal test for capacity under the common law is a functional test. It determines whether a person can make a particular decision at a particular time; it focuses on retained abilities rather than on presumed deficits – in order to promote patient autonomy in decision-making. International evidence suggests however that the test is not well understood and consequently not being correctly applied in practice by a range of medical professionals. Donnelly has argued that gaining a better understanding of how capacity assessments are actually employed is essential to improving the quality of assessments. To date, there is little data on how doctors in particular make their assessments in practice. Using a socio-legal methodology, this quantitative study aims to assess understanding of capacity among a group of general practitioners/family medicine doctors in Ireland, and to determine how they assess capacity in clinical practice. Our study found that notwithstanding a lack of confidence in their ability to assess decision-making capacity, that respondents in fact demonstrated a high level of understanding and of ability to correctly apply the functional test in practice.
Inscribing Janaki Ammal: Biographies and the Act of Remembering
Authors: Jyothisha V. R. , Shalini M.
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the life and commemoration of E. K. Janaki Ammal, a groundbreaking Indian botanist and cytogeneticist. By analysing three biographical sources, the paper explores how these narratives portray Ammal as an exemplary female scientist, specifically by formulating a rigid picture of an ‘ideal female scientist’. While elucidating the career and gender-specific challenges faced by Ammal as a female scientist, the paper employs the methodological framework of feminist science studies to explore the creation, dissemination, and attribution of specific subjectivities. It examines how class, gender, and caste in India affected Ammal’s scientific career. Moreover, these biographies shed light on the role played by race in her scientific pursuits in nineteenth-century British India.
Improved Russo-Wiberg Model: Unveiling New Dimensions in Parliamentary Question Comparison
Authors: Czinege Matej
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes an improved model for comparing parliamentary question systems based on their procedural settings. It draws upon a model which was first proposed by Russo and Wiberg (2010). In addition to incorporating new categories for evaluating parliamentary questions, the improved model is also adapted for application to both forms of parliamentary questions in terms of assessing their potentials (informational and confrontational). It is proposed that both oral and written questions be evaluated using identical criteria. Finally, the paper presents a brief case study to demonstrate the application of the modified model and to test whether the proposed criteria should indeed be included in the model.
Civil Justice’s ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’
Authors: Andrews Neil
Published: November 2024

This paper considers a number of themes taken from Marcel Storme’s address, ‘Best Science, Worst Practice?’ and the gap that exists between the theory and practice of civil procedural codes. In particular, it considers, in respect of England and Wales, the disjunction between theory and practice following the introduction of the Civil Procedure Rules 1998 as a consequence of the Woolf Reforms of 1995–96. It examines the growth in prolix rules of procedure, notwithstanding the express aim of those reforms to ensure a simpler form of process. It looks at changes to the legal profession, the respective roles of lawyers and the court in the management of litigation, and procedural mechanisms to secure relevant facts and a fair trial. It further examines the role played by the appellate process and issues of enforcement. Finally, it considers the eternal problem of procedure, one that is particularly acute in England and Wales: litigation cost and the need to secure effective litigation funding. The paper concludes with recommendations for reform and by raising questions for further consideration.
Trichomyia Haliday in Curtis (Diptera: Psychodidae) from southern Brazil: four new species and seven new records
Authors: ROSSITO LUCAS , ANDRADE ANDREY J. , PINHO LUIZ CARLOS
Published: November 2024

The Neotropical region currently has the greatest richness of species in the genus Trichomyia Haliday in Curtis, but many regions, such as southern Brazil, have the fauna poorly explored. Here we describe four new species: Trichomyia brisolai sp. nov., T. aculeata sp. nov., T. marumbi sp. nov. and T. uncata sp. nov. and provide new records for seven brazilian species: T. inermis, T. brasiliensis, T. danieli, T. nocturna, T. riodocensis, T. truncata and T. mineira from the southern region of Brazil.
Reimagining sacred spaces and spiritual leadership: Response to Andrea Baker’s paper Sacred Spaces
Authors: Varghese Meloottu Allan
Published: November 2024

Through Andrea Baker’s paper, the realities of abuse and the failure of churches to protect the oppressed are brought closer to our hearts and minds. Baker presents a prophetic call to imagine how Christians may embody the kingdom of God and restore ‘sacred spaces’ in our ecclesial institutions. In light of such a prophetic challenge, as a response, this paper reflects on a couple of aspects that can be pertinent to missiologists. They are: 1) to reimagine how we understand ‘sacred spaces’ and 2) to envision the possibility of holistic leadership development that fosters ‘sacred spaces.’ Consequently, one can discern God’s redeeming presence beyond the four walls of the church while working to restore churches as ‘sacred spaces’ where the love and resurrection power of Jesus Christ become an embodying reality. This paper was read in response to Andrea Baker's plenary address titled ‘Sacred Spaces’ at the Annual Conference of the American Society of Missiology, 2024.
Interaction of azithromycin and methylprednisolone with ex-vivo extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits (ECMO)
Authors: Chevalier Andrew , McKnite Autumn , Whelan Aviva , Imburgia Carina , Rower Joseph E , Watt Kevin M , Green Danielle J
Published: November 2024

Background

Azithromycin and methylprednisolone are two medications that are commonly used in patients who require ECMO support. Unfortunately, ECMO support can decrease drug concentrations through adsorption to circuit components. Such interactions have not been well described for either azithromycin or methylprednisolone. This study determined the extraction of these medications by ECMO circuits in an ex-vivo system.

Methods

Medications were administered to closed-loop, blood-primed ECMO circuits to attain target therapeutic concentrations. Drug concentration remaining in the circuit was measured over 6 h. The difference in medication recovery was compared between the ECMO circuits and controls using two-sample t-tests.

Results

Concentrations of azithromycin and methylprednisolone remained constant in control experiments over time, indicating medication stability in blood. There was no statistical difference in percent recovery after 6 h between control experiments and the ECMO circuits for either azithromycin ( p = .32) or methylprednisolone ( p = .17).

Discussion

Azithromycin and methylprednisolone did not significantly interact with ex-vivo ECMO circuits. While these studies do not account for all in-vivo pharmacokinetic changes that may occur as a result of ECMO and critical illness, they suggest that standard dosing may be adequate to achieve therapeutic concentrations of azithromycin and methylprednisolone.
Self-assembling peptide hydrogel scaffold accelerates healing of patellar tendon injury: A histological and biomechanical study
Authors: Ishitani Takashi , Otsuki Shuhei , Yamauchi Shota , Okamoto Yoshinori , Wakama Hitoshi , Sezaki Shunsuke , Matsuyama Junya , Nakamura Kaito , Iwata Takeru , Hirota Chuji , Hirano Yoshiaki
Published: November 2024

Although KI24RGDS peptide hydrogel that acts as a cell adhesion has been reported to repair tissue in meniscus injury, its effect on tendon injuries remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of KI24RGDS for tendon repair based on histological and biomechanical evaluation. After introducing defects (length: 10 mm; width: 3 mm) at the centers of rabbits’ patellar tendons, and the KI24RGDS group was implanted with KI24RGDS and observed for 8 weeks. KI24RGDS implantation resulted in limited tendon elongation and better histological scores with uniformed collagen fiber orientation and early vascularization. The failure load of the patellar tendon was higher in the KI24RGDS group than that in the defect group ( p < 0.05) and no significant difference with the control group (intact patellar tendon) at 8 weeks postoperatively. In conclusion, KI24RGDS administration might have therapeutic potential for tendon injuries by accelerating collagen remodeling.
Artificial Intelligence as Research Methods in Urban Design
Authors: Choi Hee Sun , Zhang Wang
Published: November 2024

This paper delves into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in urban design, focusing on its capability to manage complex urban systems via paradigm classification and comparative analysis. It methodically explores how AI improves design generation, optimizes morphology, and simulates real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing design quality and efficiency throughout the urban design process. Furthermore, the study contributes to the development of comprehensive AI evaluation criteria, integrating both theoretical and practical perspectives to critically understand the advantages and limitations of AI in urban design applications.
Extending the Triple Helix model: Collaboration through “moments of community” among edtech, university and government
Authors: Adachi Chie , Bearman Margaret , Blannin Joanne , Henderson Michael
Published: November 2024

Over the last few decades, the rise of educational technologies has disrupted educational practices within universities. Routinely, edtech enterprises have received criticism that their product development is more aligned with service provision of software rather than pedagogically oriented products. This paper explores collaborative and contentious practices observed in a government-funded, large-scale innovation project that enabled edtech companies to work with university researchers in critically improving their products, processes and practices, in short, their ‘efficacy’. Drawing on and challenging the Community of Practice as a conceptual framework, the thematic and discourse analysis was conducted on the semi-structured interviews and written reports collected. In this Triple Helix space, the paper frames ‘moments of community’ as a construct that reveals what makes the joint enterprise, mutual engagement and shared repertoire work to drive the success of such innovation projects. Limitations of the study will also be outlined.
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection in severely immunocompromised people living with HIV: Findings from a five-year cohort
Authors: Fernández-Díaz María del Rocío , Faro-Miguez Naya , Aguilera-Franco María , Muñoz-Medina Leopoldo , Ruiz-Sancho Andrés , Rodríguez-Granger Javier , Guirao-Arrabal Emilio
Published: November 2024

Background

We sought to clarify the current incidence, risk factors and symptoms of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (dMAC) infection in admitted people living with HIV in a hospital in the Southeast of Spain.

Methods

5-years observational, retrospective and single-centre study. Demographic, clinical and analytical variables, along with microbiological, treatment and follow-up were collected.

Results

Five cases of dMAC infection in severely immunocompromised people living with HIV people living were found. dMAC was diagnosed in 22.7% of patients under 100 CD4. All patients presented with fever and clinical manifestations of pneumonia, lymphadenopathy, or gastrointestinal symptoms. Despite low CD4 levels and high viral loads in some cases, primary prophylaxis had not been previously administered.

Conclusions

Until 2018, U.S. American guidelines recommended antimycobacterial prophylaxis for patients with low CD4 cell counts, a practice not adopted in Europe. Untreated dMAC infection is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. dMAC infection represents a prevalent disease in severely immunosuppressed people living with HIV. dMAC requires a high index of suspicion in this population, in order to perform mycobacterial cultures from different samples.
Accountability System, Academic Autonomy, and Freedom of Academia Versus Pathways to Educational Excellence in Hawassa University, Ethiopia
Authors: Geletu Girma Moti , Adige Aklilu Yihun
Published: November 2024

The study examined integrated effects of implementation of accountability system, institutional autonomy, and academic freedom of academia versus pathways to educational (professional, leadership and pedagogical) excellence in Hawassa University. The study answered the central research question: “What do the effects of implementation of accountability, academic autonomy and freedom of academia versus professional, leadership and pedagogical excellences look-like?” The study employed mixed method with concurrent triangulation design. The researchers selected samples of the study using purposive, convenient, stratified, and simple random sampling techniques. The researchers collected data using questionnaires, unstructured interviews, and document examination and analyzed data using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic narration using SPSS-26 and NVivo-14, respectively. There were multiple gaps pertaining implementing performance-based and professional-based internal accountability to accomplish institutional visions, missions, and mutual goals. The findings of the study showed that although academic autonomy relates to the independence of academic institutions in decision-making concerning curriculum, teaching methods, research, and academic policies, it shows practical gaps concerning teachers’ and students’ academic freedom. This includes challenges related to quality teaching, research, community services, and expression of views to criticize the weakness of institutional censorship. The study recommends that the practice of accountability strategies, technological, and pedagogical innovation toward striving for educational excellences needed improvements. Managerial, technological, and pedagogical innovation should promote decision-making competencies, professional, leadership, and pedagogical excellence.