bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating early intervention in smoldering myeloma clinical trials: a systematic review
Authors: Kakkilaya Apoorva , Trando Aaron , Cliff Edward R Scheffer , Mian Hira , Al Hadidi Samer , Aziz Muhammad , Goodman Aaron M , Jeong Ah-Reum , Smith Wade L , Kelkar Amar H , Russler-Germain David A , Mehra Nikita , Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Gertz Morie A , Mohyuddin Ghulam Rehman 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), an asymptomatic precursor of multiple myeloma (MM), carries a variable risk of progression to MM. There is little consensus on the efficacy or optimal timing of treatment in SMM. We systematically reviewed the landscape of all clinical trials in SMM. We compared the efficacy of treatment regimens studied in SMM to results from these regimens when used in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM), to determine whether the data suggest deeper responses in SMM versus NDMM.

Methods
All prospective interventional clinical trials for SMM, including published studies, meeting abstracts, and unpublished trials listed on ClinicalTrials.gov up to April 1, 2023, were identified. Trial-related variables were captured, including treatment strategy and efficacy results. Relevant clinical endpoints were defined as overall survival (OS) and quality of life.

Results
Among 45 SMM trials identified, 38 (84.4%) assessed active myeloma drugs, while 7 (15.6%) studied bone-modifying agents alone. Of 18 randomized trials in SMM, only one (5.6%) had a primary endpoint of OS; the most common primary endpoint was progression-free survival (n = 7, 38.9%). Among 32 SMM trials with available results, 9 (28.1%) met their prespecified primary endpoint, of which 5 were single-arm studies. Six treatment regimens were tested in both SMM and NDMM; 5 regimens yielded a lower rate of very good partial response rate or better (≥VGPR) in SMM compared to the corresponding NDMM trial (32% vs 63%, 43% vs 53%, 40% vs 63%, 86% vs 89%, 92% vs 95%, and 94% vs 87%, respectively).

Conclusion
In this systematic review of all prospective interventional clinical trials in SMM, we found significant variability in trial design, including randomization status, primary endpoints, and types of intervention used. Despite the statistical limitations, comparison of treatment regimens revealed no compelling evidence that the treatment is more effective when introduced early in SMM compared to NDMM.
The strigolactone receptor DWARF14 regulates flowering time in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bai Jinrui , Lei Xi , Liu Jinlan , Huang Yi , Bi Lumei , Wang Yuehua , Li Jindong , Yu Haiyang , Yao Shixiang , Chen Li , Janssen Bart J , Snowden Kimberley C , Zhang Meng , Yao Ruifeng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Multiple plant hormones, including strigolactone (SL), play key roles in regulating flowering time. The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) DWARF14 (AtD14) receptor perceives SL and recruits F-box protein MORE AXILLARY GROWTH2 (MAX2) and the SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2-LIKE (SMXL) family proteins. These interactions lead to the degradation of the SMXL repressor proteins, thereby regulating shoot branching, leaf shape, and other developmental processes. However, the molecular mechanism by which SL regulates plant flowering remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that intact strigolactone biosynthesis and signaling pathways are essential for normal flowering in Arabidopsis. Loss-of-function mutants in both SL biosynthesis (max3) and signaling (Atd14 and max2) pathways display earlier flowering, whereas the repressor triple mutant smxl6/7/8 (s678) exhibits the opposite phenotype. Retention of AtD14 in the cytoplasm leads to its inability to repress flowering. Moreover, we show that nuclear-localized AtD14 employs dual strategies to enhance the function of the AP2 transcription factor TARGET OF EAT1 (TOE1). AtD14 directly binds to TOE1 in an SL-dependent manner and stabilizes it. In addition, AtD14-mediated degradation of SMXL7 releases TOE1 from the repressor protein, allowing it to bind to and inhibit the FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) promoter. This results in reduced FT transcription and delayed flowering. In summary, AtD14 perception of SL enables the transcription factor TOE1 to repress flowering, providing insights into hormonal control of plant flowering.
Development and exploratory evaluation of substance use and substance use disorder training for the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy
Authors: Owens Mandy D , McKee Melody , Rickert Christine , Rogel Brandon , Starnes Becky 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Washington State passed a 2021 law requiring all new law enforcement officers to receive training on substance use disorder (SUD). This project developed and conducted an exploratory evaluation of the effectiveness of the new SUD training among recruits completing the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Recruits completed surveys at the start (“pre”) and end (“post”) of the Academy. Surveys included two subscales from the Drug and Drug Problem Perceptions Questionnaire. ANOVA analyses compared pre-post changes in ratings among recruits completing the Academy with and without the new SUD training. Recruits (n = 211) receiving the new SUD training reported increases on almost all questions of knowledge of alcohol and drugs and professional self-esteem working with SUD (Fs = 4.6-23.157, ps &lt; 0.05). Recruits (n = 59) not receiving the SUD training reported little to no changes in knowledge or professional self-esteem. The SUD training was effective in giving recruits evidence-based SUD information and confidence to interact effectively with people with SUD.
A performance comparison study between two HPGe lung counters with different detector configurations
Authors: Naito Masayuki , Tamakuma Yuki , Mihei Yuma , Yajima Kazuaki , Tani Kotaro , Kim Eunjoo , Kowatari Munehiko , Kurihara Osamu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This study compares the performance of old and new lung counters in the National Institutes for Quantum Sciences and Technology of Japan. The total sensitive area of the detector crystals for the new lung counter is ~15% smaller than that for the old lung counter. Minimum detectable activities (MDAs) for 241Am and 239Pu were evaluated through experiments using a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory torso phantom. Despite differences in detector configuration, the MDAs were found to be comparable between the two lung counters. For a chest wall thickness of 2.1 cm and a counting time of 30 min, the MDAs of 241Am and 239Pu were 5.7 and 2300 Bq for the old lung counter, and 5.5 and 2600 Bq for the new lung counter, respectively. Experimental results for the relative sensitivities between left-side and right-side detectors suggested that the new lung counter offered better measurement geometry.
Energy resolution improvement in simplified alpha spectroscopy for radionuclidic purity tests on 225Ac production floors
Authors: Mihei Yuma , Tani Kotaro , Ichinose Jun , Nagatsu Kotaro , Fukushi Masahiro , Kurihara Osamu , Inoue Kazumasa 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This study investigated the feasibility of a simplified method of alpha spectroscopy for radionuclidic purity tests at 225Ac production sites that eliminates the need for a vacuum chamber. The impact of enhancing the energy resolution using a collimator was evaluated through radiation transport simulations. The results showed that a full width at tenth maximum (FWTM) of &lt;300 keV was achieved for alpha particles from 241Am, for which the main energy peak was 5.5 MeV. Experimental validation using an electrodeposition source containing 237Np, 241Am, and 244Cm confirmed an FWTM of 272 keV for both 241Am and 244Cm. These two peaks, with a difference of ~300 keV, were effectively separated. In response to the growing demand for targeted radioisotope therapy, this simplified alpha spectroscopy method offers the potential to detect 226Ra mixed with 225Ac generated by accelerators, given the alpha energy difference of ~700 keV.
Rewriting Febles, Decolonialising Exclusion
Authors: Fynn Bruey Veronica , Grey Colin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Article 1F(b) of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees denies refugee protection to persons who have committed a “serious non-political crime.” In Febles v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 SCC 68, a majority of the Supreme Court of Canada held that the “seriousness” of a crime is to be determined based on the offence at the time it was committed. Later developments, such as serving a sentence or rehabilitation, do not factor in the analysis. Febles remains the leading apex court decision on determining seriousness. We argue the majority’s analysis creates the potential for both material and epistemic injustice. We then rewrite Febles by drawing on criminal law theory and a variety of critical perspectives, most notably critical race theory, decolonial theory, and Third World Approaches to International Law. On our rewrite, crimes meet the threshold of “seriousness” if they represent an intrinsic threat to the civil order of any State, hence indirectly a threat to the international order. Exclusion holds refugee status in abeyance until the goals of criminal justice have been met with respect to such crimes. If they have, either through formal or informal means, a claimant should not be excluded.
Poor-Quality Legal Advice: Re-Imagining How Immigration Detention Centres Should Run in England
Authors: Riaz Ayesha 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The High Court of England and Wales in the case of R (Detention Action) v Lord Chancellor, ruled that the Lord Chancellor had acted lawfully due to the way he operated the Detention Duty Advice Scheme (hereafter “DDAS”). The DDAS is a publicly funded legal service provided to detainees in immigration detention centres. Under it, all detainees are eligible to receive up to 30 minutes of free advice from legal representatives. This approach to detention has been critiqued by scholars on the grounds that a lack of time is afforded to detainees. Some research has been undertaken on the lack of availability of publicly funded legal advice in detention. However, existing literature has yet to canvass the issue in relation to the relaxation of the rules in 2018, whereby contracts were awarded to legal aid providers that lacked experience of dealing with detainees. In this article, I address this lacuna by arguing that detainees were hindered from accessing good-quality legal advice as a result of the lack of experience and expertise of the newer providers. Therefore, I will consider ways of remedying the current dysfunctional system.
Income Inequality, World Polity, and Political Secularization: A Comparative Historical Analysis (1870–2014)
Authors: Huft Justin , Hekmatpour Peyman 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Previous works find descriptive evidence for a long-term political secularization trend during the nineteenth century, and a political desecularization trend starting in the late 1970s. This study, however, is an attempt to go beyond mere descriptions of global trends by introducing a methodological approach that can effectively account for the differences between countries in their paths either toward or away from political secularization. We use growth curve models to estimate country-specific trajectories of political secularization, and then condition these trajectories on nations’ historically predominant religions as well as geographic locations as a time-invariant independent variable. Overall, results suggest that there is a significant heterogeneity in trajectories of political secularization. Results suggest that as income inequality increases, so does the government’s preference for religion. Moreover, as countries become more embedded in the world polity (measured by increased number of international governmental organizations memberships), governments tend to lose their preference for religion.
Reflections on a linear algebra reading comprehension exercise arising from macroeconomics
Authors: Meyer John Christopher 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
We reflect on a reading comprehension exercise given in a linear algebra course to joint honours students enrolled in their first year on an Applied Mathematics with Economics undergraduate degree programme. The exercise first required students to read a proof of a Hawkins–Simon condition, which contained some intended minor mistakes. Students were then required to identify and fix the mistakes; apply the theorem to guarantee the existence of a solution to a simple instance of such a system; and explain how they could use the theorem in more generality. Consequently, we highlight how reading comprehension exercises can be used to evidence students’ attainment of attributes they should typically have obtained via their undergraduate degree studies.
Brain mitochondrial damage attenuation by quercetin and N-acetyl cysteine: peripheral and central antiemetic effects
Authors: Abolfazli Sajad , Foroumand Sarvenaz , Mohammadi Elham , Ahangar Nematollah , Kheirandish Ali , Fathi Hamed , Mohammadi Hamidreza 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Nausea serves as a protective mechanism in organisms to prevent excessive consumption of toxic substances. Due to the adverse effects of chemical anti-nausea drugs, there is a growing interest in using herbal remedies and natural antioxidants. In this study, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of quercetin (QU) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against oxidative damage induced by nausea. Emesis was induced in chickens using ipecac and copper sulfate (600 and 60 mg/kg, orally, respectively). QU and NAC (with doses of 50, 100, 200 mg/kg), and their combination were administered, along with a standard therapy (metoclopramide; MET 2 mg/kg) for one-time. Mitochondrial function, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl (PC), glutathione level (GSH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as oxidative damage biomarkers were evaluated in the chicken’s brain mitochondria. QU and NAC significantly reduced emesis induced by copper sulfate and ipecac compared to the control group (P &lt; 0.001). Significant differences in oxidative damage were observed in the groups received of copper sulfate and ipecac compared with control group. Levels of LPO, ROS, and PC were significantly decreased after the administration of QU and NAC in emesis induced by copper sulfate and ipecac. While, mitochondrial function and GSH levels were increased after the administration of QU and NAC. Combination therapy with QU and NAC yielded the most effective results. This study suggests that QU and NAC possess antiemetic effects through both peripheral and central mechanisms and exhibit neuroprotective effects against oxidative brain damage induced by emesis by increasing plasma antioxidants or scavenging free radicals.
Perioxygenation During Advanced Airway Management
Authors: Hendrickson Eric , de Castro Maria , Behringer Elizabeth Cordes 
Published: September 2024

Abstract:
Advanced airway management is a skill that is used every day in patient care settings throughout the world. Albeit common, it is not benign. Advanced airway management may either be elective or urgent; in either case, it may result in significant patient morbiidity and mortality. The complications of difficult or failed endotracheal intubation can be severe and include death or permanent neurologic injury. Difficulty or failure with advanced airway management often coincides with the onset of hypoxia. The onset of hypoxia affects both the patient and the airway manager. While hypoxemia may result in dysrhythmias and ultimately cardiac arrest for the patient, it adds time pressure and stress to the airway manager, and thus may impact successful performance. In this review, we will discuss how to identify patients at risk for rapid desaturation during advanced airway management. Additionally, methods of peri-oxygenation throughout the performance of airway management will be discussed.
Association Between Metformin Use in Early Gestational or Type 2 Diabetes in Pregnancy and Preterm Preeclampsia
Authors: Patel Maya , Battarbee Ashley N. , Refuerzo Jerrie S. , Zork Noelia , Eichelberger Kacey , Ramos Gladys A. , Olson Gayle , Durnwald Celeste , Landon Mark B. , Aagaard Kjersti M. , Wallace Kedra , Scifres Christina , Rosen Todd , Mulla Wadia , Valent Amy , Longo Sherri , Boggess Kim A. 
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE:
To estimate the association between maternal metformin use for the treatment of early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes and preterm preeclampsia.

METHODS:
This is a planned secondary analysis of the MOMPOD study (Medical Optimization of Management of Overt Type 2 Diabetes in Pregnancy), a randomized trial comparing the effect of adding metformin with insulin treatment on composite neonatal outcome in singleton pregnancies with early gestational or type 2 diabetes. Participants were randomized at 11–23 weeks of gestation to 1,000 mg metformin twice daily or placebo until delivery. A subset of participants had maternal blood collected at 24–30 weeks of gestation, and serum soluble endoglin, apolipoprotein B, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, placental growth factor, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, adiponectin, and vascular endothelial growth factor levels were measured. Our primary outcome was preterm preeclampsia, defined as preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. Secondary outcomes included preterm preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation and differences in serum biomarkers. Multivariable regression analysis was used to estimate the associations between metformin use and primary or secondary study outcomes.

RESULTS:
Of 831 participants, 119 (14.3%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation: 57 of 416 (13.7%) in the placebo group and 62 of 415 (14.9%) in the metformin group. Thirty-seven (4.4%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation: 15 (3.6%) receiving placebo and 22 (5.3%) receiving metformin. Compared with placebo, metformin was not associated with a significant difference in the occurrence of preeclampsia before 37 weeks of gestation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.04, 95% CI, 0.70–1.56) or before 34 weeks (aOR 1.43, 95% CI, 0.73–2.81). Similarly, there was no association between maternal metformin use and serum biomarker levels.

CONCLUSION:
Among parturients with early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes, the addition of metformin to insulin was not associated with lower odds of preterm preeclampsia or with serum biomarkers associated with cardiovascular disease risk.
Patient Perspectives on Evolving Diverticulitis Treatment: An Assessment of Patient Willingness to Enroll in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Altman-Merino Annie , Bonnet Kemberlee , Schlundt David , Wrenn Jesse , Self Wesley H. , Gordon Elisa J. , Hawkins Alexander T. 
Published: September 2024

Objective:
The objective of the study was to assess patients’ attitudes regarding participation in a randomized trial of antibiotics versus placebo for acute diverticulitis.

Background:
Despite evidence that antibiotics may not be necessary to treat acute uncomplicated diverticulitis, they remain the mainstay of treatment in the United States. A randomized trial in the United States evaluating antibiotic effectiveness could accelerate the implementation of antibiotic-free treatment, but providers maintain concerns that patients may be unwilling to participate.

Methods:
This mixed-methods study conducted semi-structured interviews of patients presenting to a quaternary care emergency department with acute diverticulitis and a web-based survey of a larger cohort. The interviews assessed patients’ experiences with diverticulitis and perceptions of participation in a trial comparing antibiotics versus placebo. The survey quantified patients’ willingness to participate in such a study and the relative importance of factors influencing the process.

Results:
Thirteen patients completed an interview. Reasons to participate included a desire to help others or contribute to scientific knowledge. Doubts about the efficacy of observation as a treatment method were the main barrier to participation. In a survey of 218 subjects, 62% of respondents reported willingness to participate in a randomized clinical trial. “What my doctor thinks,” followed by “What I have experienced in the past” were the most important decision-making factors.

Conclusion:
Patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis maintain complex and varying perceptions of antibiotic use. Most surveyed patients would be willing to participate in a trial of antibiotics versus placebo. Our findings support the trial’s feasibility and may facilitate an informed approach to recruitment and consent.
L5-S1 Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion is Associated With Increased Revisions Compared With L4-L5 Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion at Two Years
Authors: Singh Manjot , Casey Jack , Glueck Jacob , Balmaceno-Criss Mariah , Perez-Albela Alejandro , Hanna John , Diebo Bassel G. , Daniels Alan H. , Basques Bryce A. 
Published: September 2024

Study Design.
Retrospective cohort study.

Objective.
The aim of this study was to compare outcomes in patients undergoing 1-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) at L4-S1.

Background.
TLIF is frequently performed at L4-S1 to treat degenerative lumbar pathologies. However, the native alignment and biomechanics differ across L4-L5 and L5-S1, and there is limited data regarding comparative radiographic outcomes.

Patients and Methods.
Patients who underwent 1-level TLIF at L4-L5 or L5-S1 at a single academic institution were identified. Baseline demographics, procedural characteristics, change in postoperative spinopelvic alignment patient-reported outcome measures, and 2-year postoperative surgical complications were compared. Multivariate regression analyses, accounting for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and body mass index, were also performed.

Results.
Across the 175 included patients, 125 had L4-L5 TLIF and 50 had L5-S1 TLIF. The mean age was 57.8 years, 56.6% were females, the mean Charlson Comorbidity Index was 0.9, and the mean follow-up was 26.7 months. In the hospital, the 2 cohorts were not statistically different with regard to estimated blood loss and length of stay. Two years postoperatively, multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that L5-S1 TLIF achieved 6.0° higher correction in L4-S1 lordosis (P = 0.012) than L4-L5 TLIF. At the same time, however, L5-S1 patients undergoing TLIF experienced significantly higher rates of pseudoarthrosis (8.0% vs. 1.6%, P = 0.036) and subsequent spine surgery (18.0% vs. 7.2%, P = 0.034), specifically for pseudoarthrosis (6.0% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.006), with this cohort having 8.7 times higher odds of subsequent spine surgery for pseudoarthrosis (P = 0.015) than L4-L5 patients undergoing TLIF on multivariate logistic analyses. Patient-reported outcome measures, in contrast, were not different across the 2 cohorts.

Conclusions.
Although L5-S1 TLIF yielded good radiographic correction, it was associated with higher rates of subsequent spine surgery for pseudoarthrosis compared with L4-L5 TLIF. These findings may be related to differences in native segmental alignment and biomechanics across the L4-L5 and L5-S1 motion segments and are important to consider during surgical planning.

Level of Evidence.
Level IV.