bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To Effectively Address Complex Healthcare Problems, Continuing Professional Development Must Evolve
Authors: Price David W.
Published: December 2023

Continuing professional development aims to provide health professionals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to improve care. Physicians and other clinicians increasingly practice within complex health care delivery organizations aiming to improve the care of populations of patients with multiple problems and differing needs. These organizations are composed of local units in different departments and venues; these teams and the patients they care for change over time. Improving outcomes within constantly changing complex organizations delivering population care takes time and persistence. It takes time to equip critical masses of clinicians and other personnel with knowledge and skills to effect change. Although some changes might be simple, those involving new workflows require implementation support. Not all change will be smooth; individuals need opportunities to learn from and adjust their early intervention efforts, measure effectiveness of change, and sustain successful practices. Longitudinal support is necessary to affect change over complex organizations. This essay proposes that to be more supportive and valuable to health care delivery organizations, continuing professional development needs to intentionally participate in longitudinal, collaborative, context-specific, team-based interventions. An expanded menu of evaluation approaches will better describe the role of continuing professional development in helping health care professionals and organizations address increasingly complex health care delivery problems and improve patient and population outcomes. Selected concepts to achieve these ends are introduced at a high level in this article. Readers are invited to explore concepts that resonate with their current situation in further detail.
BULLOUS VARIANT OF CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY IN GOODPASTURE DISEASE: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Authors: Tsui Jonathan C. , Carroll Robert M. , Brucker Alexander J. , Kolomeyer Anton M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to describe a case of bullous variant of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSR) in Goodpasture disease (GD) compared with an identical twin without GD and summarize the literature on ocular manifestations of GD.

Methods:

This was an interventional/observational case report and literature review.

Results:

A 46-year-old White woman with a history of GD presented with decreased vision. She demonstrated bilateral multifocal pigment epithelial detachments and a large inferior exudative retinal detachment in the left eye consistent with bilateral CSR with bullous variant CSR in the left eye. Despite treatment, her disease remained refractory, with final VA of 20/200 in the left eye. The patient's identical twin sister did not have GD and demonstrated milder CSR on presentation with a more typical, self-limited disease course. Her final VA was 20/20 bilaterally.

Conclusion:

Goodpasture disease is associated with severe manifestations of CSR (exudative retinal detachment). Additional studies focusing on the association between GD and CSR severity may be of interest.
Kappa opioid agonists in the treatment of itch: just scratching the surface?
Authors: Beck Tyler C. , Wilson Elena M. , Wilkes Erik , Lee Lara Wine , Norris Russell , Valdebran Manuel
Published: December 2023

Chronic pruritus is a debilitating condition affecting 23–44 million Americans. Recently, kappa opioid agonists (KOAs) have emerged as a novel class of potent antipruritic agents. In 2021, the Food and Drug Administration approved difelikefalin (Korsuva) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease in adults undergoing hemodialysis. Difelikefalin is a potent, peripherally restricted KOA that is intravenously available. Although promising, difelikefalin is currently available as an intravenous composition only, limiting the scope of use. Oral formulations of difelikefalin did not meet the primary endpoint criteria in recent phase 2 clinical trials; however, additional clinical studies are ongoing. The future for KOAs in the treatment of pruritus is encouraging. Orally active pathway-biased KOAs, such as triazole 1.1, may serve as viable alternatives with broader applications. Extended-release compositions, such as the TP-2021 ProNeura subdermal implant, may circumvent the pharmacokinetic issues associated with peptide-based KOAs. Lastly, dual-acting kappa opioid receptor agonist/mu opioid receptor antagonists are orally bioavailable and may be useful in the treatment of various forms of chronic itch. In this review, we summarize the results of KOAs in clinical and preclinical trials and discuss future directions of drug development.
Diagnostic value of CD34 and CD117 Immunohistochemistry and Megakaryocyte Morphology in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: A Retrospective Case-control Study
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Wenhua , Liang Yuanchu , Liu Youli , Dai Wenbin
Published: December 2023

This study evaluated the diagnostic value of CD34 and CD117 immunohistochemistry(IHC) and megakaryocyte morphology in Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). In this study, CD34-positive individual cells (Type I) and small clusters (Type II) were observed in most cases (91.2%). Type II CD34-positive was seen in 24 (49%) MDS cases, and positive percentage was higher than in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) or aplastic anemia (AA). Type II CD117-positive were observed in 44 (89.8%) MDS cases and Type I were observed in 5 (10.2%) MDS. Type II CD117-positive percentage was higher than in AML or AA. Megakaryocyte counts were normal or increased in most MDS cases except one. Although megakaryocyte counts of AML and AA were predominantly decreased, Most MDS patients (81.6%) had abnormal megakaryocyte, whereas almost none of megakaryocyte abnormality was found in AML and AA. In conclusion, combined detection of CD34 and CD117 and observation of megakaryocyte count and morphology are useful for the diagnosis of MDS.
Beluga whale and bottlenose dolphin ACE2 proteins allow cell entry mediated by spike protein from three variants of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Stone H. M. , Unal E. , Romano T. A. , Turner P. E.
Published: December 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viruses infect numerous non-human species. Spillover of SARS-CoV-2 into novel animal reservoirs may present a danger to host individuals of these species, particularly worrisome in populations already endangered or threatened by extinction. In addition, emergence in new reservoirs could pose spillback threats to humans, especially in the form of virus variants that further mutate when infecting other animal hosts. Previous work suggests beluga whales (
Delphinapterus leucas
) and bottlenose dolphins (
Tursiops truncatus
) may be at risk owing to their formation of social groups, contact with humans, exposure to contaminated wastewater, and structure of their angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) proteins, which SARS-CoV-2 uses as a cellular receptor. We examined marine-mammal susceptibility to virus infection by challenging 293T cells expressing beluga or dolphin ACE2 with pseudovirions bearing the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Beluga and dolphin ACE2 were sufficient to allow cell entry by an early pandemic isolate (Wuhan-Hu-1) and two evolved variants (Delta B.1.617.2 and Omicron BA.1 strains). We conclude that SARS-CoV-2 poses a potential threat to marine mammal reservoirs that should be considered in surveillance efforts.
Investigating the potential of X shredding for mouse genetic biocontrol
Authors: Bunting Mark. D. , Godahewa Gelshan I. , McPherson Nicole O. , Robertson Louise , Gierus Luke , Piltz Sandra G. , Edwards Owain , Tizard Mark , Thomas Paul Q.
Published: December 2023

CRISPR-Cas9 technology has facilitated development of strategies that can potentially provide more humane and effective methods to control invasive vertebrate species, such as mice. One promising strategy is X chromosome shredding which aims to bias offspring towards males, resulting in a gradual and unsustainable decline of females. This method has been explored in insects with encouraging results. Here, we investigated this strategy inMus musculusby targeting repeat DNA sequences on the X chromosome with the aim of inducing sufficient DNA damage to specifically eliminate X chromosome-bearing sperm during gametogenesis. We tested three different guide RNAs (gRNAs) targeting different repeats on the X chromosome, together with three male germline-specific promoters for inducing Cas9 expression at different stages of spermatogenesis. A modest bias towards mature Y-bearing sperm was detected in some transgenic males, although this did not translate into significant male-biasing of offspring. Instead, cleavage of the X-chromosome during meiosis typically resulted in a spermatogenic block, manifest as small testes volume, empty tubules, low sperm concentration, and sub/infertility. Our study highlights the importance of controlling the timing of CRISPR-Cas9 activity during mammalian spermatogenesis and the sensitivity of spermatocytes to X chromosome disruption.
Activity of informed traders and stock returns
Authors: Hsu CheChun
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Recent studies suggested the ratio of option to stock volume reflected the private information. Informed traders were drawn to the options market for its leverage effect and relatively low transaction costs. Informed traders use different intervals of option moneyness to execute their strategies. The question is which types of option moneyness were traded by informed traders and what information was reflected in the market. In this study, the authors focused on this question and constructed a method for capturing the activity of informed traders in the options and stock markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors constructed the daily measure, moneyness option trading volume to stock trading volume ratio (MOS), to capture the activity of informed traders in the market. The authors formed quintile portfolios sorted with respect to the moneyness option to stock trading volume ratio and provided the capital asset pricing model and Fama–French five-factor alphas. To determine whether MOS had predictive ability on future stock returns after controlling for company characteristic effects, the authors formed double-sorted portfolios and performed Fama–Macbeth regressions.

Findings

The authors found that the firms in the lowest moneyness option trading volume to stock trading volume ratio for put quintile outperform the highest quintile by 0.698% per week (approximately 36% per year). The firms in the highest moneyness option trading volume to stock trading volume ratio for call quintile outperform the lowest quintile by 0.575% per week (approximately 30% per year).

Originality/value

The authors first propose the measures, moneyness option trading volume to stock trading volume ratio, that combined with the trading volume and option moneyness. The authors provide evidence that the measures have the predictive ability to the future stock returns.
Demonstrating a significant advance to the field: An essential criterion for publication in Functional Ecology
Authors: Sayer Emma J. , Ferry Lara A.
Published: December 2023

Demonstrating how a study advances the field is an essential criterion for publication in Functional Ecology. However, it is not always clear what constitutes a ‘significant advance’ and many manuscripts are rejected because authors have not demonstrated how their study will advance the field. In this editorial, we explain what the editors of Functional Ecology regard as an advance, and we provide some tips about how to demonstrate the advance in the manuscript text.
Nine recommendations for the emergency department for patients presenting with low back pain based on management and post‐discharge outcomes in an Australian, tertiary emergency department
Authors: Seneviratne Uvin , McLaughlin Kerry , Reilly Jennifer , Luckhoff Carl , Myles Paul
Published: December 2023

Objective

To ascertain and develop recommendations for analgesic management, discharge planning and further healthcare utilisation of adults presenting to an Australian tertiary ED with radicular or low back pain (LBP).

Methods

This prospective cohort study included adults presenting with non‐specific LBP or radicular pain to an Australian tertiary ED. Participants with trauma/cancer‐related pain, and those requiring hospital admission or surgical interventions were excluded. The primary outcome was pharmacological and non‐pharmacological management delivered in ED, retrospectively collected via electronic medical records. The secondary outcomes include discharge management use, and changes made due to post‐discharge healthcare utilisation, as observed by weekly telephone questionnaires over 4‐weeks follow‐up.

Results

Of the 100 participants recruited, 94 completed follow‐up. In ED, pharmacological management was received by 85%, including opioids (62%) and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS, 63%). Non‐pharmacological management was received by 73%, including patient education (71%) and exercise prescription (37%). In the first‐week post‐discharge, changes to initial discharge plan occurred in 50%, mostly carried out by GPs (76%). Over the follow‐up period, 51% received additional investigations/referrals. Pharmacological use decreased by 38% and non‐pharmacological use decreased by 10%. 16% of opioid‐naïve patients continued using opioids 4‐weeks post‐discharge.

Conclusion

ED presentations for LBP were more often treated pharmacologically than non‐pharmacologically, with opioids commonly prescribed and NSAIDs potentially under‐utilised. Post‐discharge, additional investigations/referrals, discharge analgesia reductions and maintenance of non‐pharmacological management were common. Opioid initiation as a result of LBP presentations, signifies a potential ‘gateway’ towards unintentional long‐term use. Key study findings form our nine recommendations to inform ED LBP pain management.
Associations between alcohol use disorder polygenic score and remission in participants from high‐risk families and the Indiana Biobank
Authors: Lai Dongbing , Kuo Sally I‐Chun , Wetherill Leah , Aliev Fazil , Zhang Michael , Marco Abreu , Schwantes‐An Tae‐Hwi , Dick Danielle , Francis Meredith W. , Johnson Emma C. , Kamarajan Chella , Kinreich Sivan , Kuperman Samuel , Meyers Jacquelyn , Nurnberger John I. , Liu Yunlong , Edenberg Howard J. , Porjesz Bernice , Agrawal Arpana , Foroud Tatiana , Schuckit Marc , Plawecki Martin H. , Bucholz Kathleen K. , McCutcheon Vivia V.
Published: December 2023

Background

In the United States, ~50% of individuals who meet criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) during their lifetimes do not remit. We previously reported that a polygenic score for AUD (PGSAUD) was positively associated with AUD severity as measured by DSM‐5 lifetime criterion count, and AUD severity was negatively associated with remission. Thus, we hypothesized that PGSAUD would be negatively associated with remission.

Methods

Individuals of European (EA) and African ancestry (AA) from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) who met lifetime criteria for AUD, and two EA cohorts ascertained for studies of liver diseases and substance use disorders from the Indiana Biobank were included. In COGA, 12‐month remission was defined as any period of ≥12 consecutive months without meeting AUD criteria except craving and was further categorized as abstinent and non‐abstinent. In the Indiana Biobank, remission was defined based on ICD codes and could not be further distinguished as abstinent or non‐abstinent. Sex and age were included as covariates. COGA analyses included additional adjustment for AUD severity, family history of remission, and AUD treatment history.

Results

In COGA EA, PGSAUD was negatively associated with 12‐month and non‐abstinent remission (p ≤ 0.013, βs between −0.15 and −0.10) after adjusting for all covariates. In contrast to the COGA findings, PGSAUD was positively associated with remission (p = 0.004, β = 0.28) in the Indiana Biobank liver diseases cohort but not in the Indiana Biobank substance use disorder cohort (p = 0.17, β = 0.15).

Conclusions

PGSAUD was negatively associated with 12‐month and non‐abstinent remission in COGA EA, independent of behavioral measures of AUD severity and family history of remission. The discrepant results in COGA and the Indiana Biobank could reflect different ascertainment strategies: the Indiana Biobank participants were older and had higher rates of liver disease, suggesting that these individuals remitted due to alcohol‐related health conditions that manifested in later life.
An orthotopic syngeneic mouse model of bortezomib‐resistant multiple myeloma
Authors: Li Manjun , Bennett Melissa K. , Toubia John , Pope Victoria S. , Tea Melinda N. , Tamang Sarah , Samuel Michael S. , Anderson Paul H. , Gliddon Briony L. , Powell Jason A. , Pitson Stuart M.
Published: December 2023

While bortezomib has significant benefits in multiple myeloma (MM) therapy, the disease remains incurable due to the invariable development of bortezomib resistance. This emphasises the need for advanced models for preclinical evaluation of new therapeutic approaches for bortezomib‐resistant MM. Here, we describe the development of an orthotopic syngeneic bortezomib‐resistant MM mouse model based on the most well‐characterised syngeneic MM mouse model derived from spontaneous MM‐forming C57BL/KaLwRij mice. Using bortezomib‐resistant 5TGM1 cells, we report and characterise a robust syngeneic mouse model of bortezomib‐resistant MM that is well suited to the evaluation of new therapeutic approaches for proteasome inhibitor‐resistant MM.
Chimeric antigen receptor and bispecific T‐cell engager therapies in multiple myeloma patients with prior allogeneic transplantation
Authors: Hammons Lindsay , Haider Shabi , Portuguese Andrew J. , Banerjee Rahul , Szabo Aniko , Pasquini Marcelo , Chhabra Saurabh , Radhakrishnan Sabarinath , Mohan Meera , Narra Ravi , Dong Jing , Janz Siegfried , Shah Nirav N. , Hamadani Mehdi , D'Souza Anita , Hari Parameswaran , Dhakal Binod
Published: December 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy and bispecific T‐cell engagers (BsAb) have emerged as promising immunotherapeutic modalities in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). However, there is limited data on the safety and efficacy of CAR‐T and BsAb therapies in MM patients with a prior history of allogeneic transplantation (allo‐HCT). Thirty‐three MM patients with prior allo‐HCT received CAR‐T (n = 24) or BsAb (n = 9) therapy. CAR‐T therapy demonstrated an ORR of 92% (67% ≥ CR), and 73% were MRD negative. BsAb therapy resulted in an ORR of 44% (44% ≥ CR) and 44% MRD negative. Safety analysis showed grade ≥3 AEs in 92% of CAR‐T and 56% of BsAb patients. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) occurred in 83% of CAR‐T and 78% of BsAb recipients, while immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) was observed in three CAR‐T patients. Infections of grade ≥3 were reported in 50% of CAR‐T and 44% of BsAb recipients. No exacerbation of graft‐versus‐host disease occurred except in one BsAb recipient. CAR‐T and BsAb therapies appear to be feasible, safe and provide deep and durable responses in MM patients with prior allo‐HCT.
Records of quality indicators for management of long‐term health conditions of patients with intellectual disabilities in Dutch residential care
Authors: van den Bemd Milou , Suichies Viviana , Bischoff Erik , Leusink Geraline L. , Cuypers Maarten
Published: December 2023

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease contribute significantly to societal and individual impact globally. High‐quality management of these long‐term health conditions is important to prevent deterioration of health, although potentially more complex for patients with intellectual disabilities in residential care. Disease management in this context particularly benefits from complete and accurate recording of disease management. Without complete records, long‐term health conditions are more difficult to track due to the level of uncertainty regarding which clinical examinations have and have not been performed. This study therefore aims to examine the recording routines of quality indicators for disease monitoring for chronically ill patients with intellectual disabilities in Dutch residential care.

Methods

This retrospective study utilised medical record data from a large Dutch long‐term care provider. We assessed the occurrence of cardiovascular disease (ICPC‐2 codes K74, K75, K76, K89 and K90), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T90, T90.02) and/or COPD (R91, R95). For adults with intellectual disabilities and long‐term condition, we analysed data entries in an 18‐month period (between July 2020 and December 2021). Observed consultation rates were calculated and presented in median with interquartile range and contrasted against the baseline number of consultations in primary care. Information on recorded quality indicators was presented in frequencies and percentages.

Findings

Of the three long‐term conditions investigated, the most common was type 2 diabetes mellitus (8.6%; n = 287), followed by cardiovascular disease (5.8%; n = 195) and COPD (3.0%; n = 101). Of those who received management for their long‐term condition from their contracted GP, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, or COPD had fewer consultations in 2021 than the Dutch baseline. Discussion of lifestyle was often not recorded. Disease monitoring quality indicators were recorded more often but at a lower frequency than expected.

Conclusions

Because of the infrequent recording of quality indicators, recording of management of long‐term conditions for patients with intellectual disabilities in long‐term care appears suboptimal. Although this may not directly harm individual patients, it may jeopardise the quality of management of long‐term conditions, as suboptimal recording limits opportunities for evaluation and improvement. Within a broader trend towards data‐driven work methods in healthcare, recording of quality indicators requires attention from practice, research and policy.
Gift and stewardship: Two ambiguous concepts in the religious discourse on nature
Authors: Henriksen Jan‐Olav
Published: December 2023

Among the misleading conceptions that may prevent adequate action to mitigate the consequences of climate change are two predominant views: the understandings of nature as a gift and of humans as stewards of creation. This article discusses these conceptions critically before suggesting alternative ways to understand humanity's place in and activity with nature. The constructive proposals at the end are based on insights from philosopher G.W.F. Hegel on the need to see ourselves as part of a unity with nature, and theologian I.U. Dalferth, who provides a basis for another type of sensitivity for nature that is not based merely in human activity, but also in the need for passivity and the recognition of our finitude.
A cytochrome P450 insecticide detoxification mechanism is not conserved across the Megachilidae family of bees
Authors: Hayward Angela , Hunt Benjamin J. , Haas Julian , Bushnell‐Crowther Ellie , Troczka Bartlomiej J. , Pym Adam , Beadle Katherine , Field Jeremy , Nelson David R. , Nauen Ralf , Bass Chris
Published: December 2023

Recent work has demonstrated that many bee species have specific cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) that can efficiently detoxify certain insecticides. The presence of these P450s, belonging or closely related to the CYP9Q subfamily (CYP9Q‐related), is generally well conserved across the diversity of bees. However, the alfalfa leafcutter bee, Megachile rotundata, lacks CYP9Q‐related P450s and is 170–2500 times more sensitive to certain insecticides than bee pollinators with these P450s. The extent to which these findings apply to other Megachilidae bee species remains uncertain. To address this knowledge gap, we sequenced the transcriptomes of four Megachile species and leveraged the data obtained, in combination with publicly available genomic data, to investigate the evolution and function of P450s in the Megachilidae. Our analyses reveal that several Megachilidae species, belonging to the Lithurgini, Megachilini and Anthidini tribes, including all species of the Megachile genus investigated, lack CYP9Q‐related genes. In place of these genes Megachile species have evolved phylogenetically distinct CYP9 genes, the CYP9DM lineage. Functional expression of these P450s from M. rotundata reveal they lack the capacity to metabolize the neonicotinoid insecticides thiacloprid and imidacloprid. In contrast, species from the Osmiini and Dioxyini tribes of Megachilidae have CYP9Q‐related P450s belonging to the CYP9BU subfamily that are able to detoxify thiacloprid. These findings provide new insight into the evolution of P450s that act as key determinants of insecticide sensitivity in bees and have important applied implications for pesticide risk assessment.
Evaluation of phubbing online social support and trait anxiety in nurses
Authors: Şafak Ayşegül , Oflaz Fahriye
Published: December 2023

Aim

This study investigated the relationship between phubbing, online social support, trait anxiety, and some demographic factors among nurses.

Background

Phubbing, or socializing through online smartphone applications, has become increasingly prevalent in healthcare environments, potentially threatening real‐life interactions. We aimed to explore the use of smartphones among nurses, both professionally and socially, and to determine if increased usage was leading to interaction problems.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted using a digital survey completed by 384 nurses between May and November 2021. The survey included an individual descriptive form, the generic scale of phubbing, the online social support scale, and the trait anxiety inventory. Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H, t test, Pearson, and the Spearman rank correlation coefficient were used for analysis. A backward selection method regression analysis was performed to determine the variables affecting the phubbing score. The “STROBE checklist” for cross‐sectional studies was utilized in order to report the findings of the study.

Results

The participants had a moderate level of trait anxiety. The study found that marital status, having WhatsApp groups with teammates, and being warned about phone use from teammates were significantly related to phubbing. A moderate positive correlation was found between the phubbing score and the online social support score. Additionally, a weak positive correlation was found between the general phubbing and trait anxiety scores.

Conclusions

Perceived online social support significantly influenced the phubbing behavior of nurses and trait anxiety played a mediating role in this relationship.

Implications for nursing and policy

Nurses frequently use smartphones for professional purposes, but this study found that excessive phone use can be detrimental to their social interactions. Moreover, phubbing could also be problematic for patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals need to be aware of the potential consequences of smartphone usage and the importance of limiting excessive use during patient care.
Enhancement of superior dielectric performance in ZnTiNb2O8 systems by multi‐layer architecture
Authors: Huang Zipeng , Qiao Jianli , Li Lingxia
Published: December 2023

Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8@TiO2 mixed ceramics and Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8‐TiO2‐Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8 layered ceramics with different TiO2 contents were designed and manufactured to adjust the microwave dielectric performances of Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8/TiO2 composite ceramics. The effects of random distribution and laminated co‐firing processes on the microwave dielectric properties of the ZnTiNb2O8 systems were fully investigated and compared. During the random distribution process, the compound transforms from the original ZnTiNb2O8 phase to the Zn0.17Nb0.33Ti0.5O2 phase with the increase of TiO2 content. Its value can be adjusted to near zero, but its Q× f value decreases severely. For the laminated co‐firing process, the distinctive tri‐layer architecture allows the reaction between Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8 and TiO2 to be limited to a narrow region of about 20 µm width and can play a role similar to that of “glue” to connect the layers well. The process significantly minimizes the probability of Q× f values deteriorating. Compared with the random distribution Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8@TiO2, the Q× f value of the tri‐layer architecture ceramics is improved by about 85% with no significant decrease in dielectric permittivity while ensuring high‐temperature stability. When stacked with 0.04 wt% TiO2, the Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8‐TiO2‐Zn0.995Cu0.005TiNb2O8 tri‐layer architecture ceramic exhibits superior dielectric properties:  = 39.96, Q× f = 51,987 GHz, and  = ‐1.31 ppm/°C.
Statistical evaluation of the mechanical and flux trapping properties of standard and thin‐wall EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors
Authors: Baumann Josef , Lojka Michal , Dennis Anthony , Shi Yunhua , Durrell John H. , Hlásek Tomáš , Cardwell David A.
Published: December 2023

The mechanical and flux trapping properties of 19 EuBCO(Ag) and 20 thin‐wall EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors were investigated statistically and compared to those observed for YBCO using Brazilian testing and high‐field magnetization. The average trapped fields of EuBCO(Ag) and thin‐wall EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors were significantly higher than those of YBCO bulk samples at 77 K measured under similar experimental conditions. However, due to the wide range of trapped field data for both materials, a statistical overlap was observed between the highest trapped fields observed for YBCO and the lowest values observed for EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors. All EuBCO(Ag) bulk materials measured in this study exhibit a superior tensile strength compared to YBCO bulk single grains. Unlike the case of YBCO, however, the introduction of artificial holes to EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors prior to melt processing was observed to decrease the average tensile strength of the single grain. Surprisingly, despite their superior mechanical and flux pinning properties, EuBCO(Ag) bulk superconductors do not exhibit enhanced performance when exposed to high fields at low temperatures.
Is shrunken pore syndrome also a reality in children?
Authors: Roussel Mathilde , Bacchetta Justine , Sellier‐Leclerc Anne Laure , Lemoine Sandrine , De Mul Aurélie , Derain Dubourg Laurence
Published: December 2023

Background

Shrunken pore syndrome (SPS) is defined as cystatin C‐based‐eGFR (eGFRcys)/creatinine‐based‐eGFR (eGFRcreat) <0.6 or 0.7 and is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. SPS has been described in children, but no link to increased morbi‐mortality was demonstrated.

Objectives

Study the prevalence of SPS in a pediatric population using several glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimating formulas and measured GFR and evaluate the potential link with cardiovascular risk.

Methods

In 307 renal risk pediatric patients, we studied prevalence of SPS either with CKiDU25creat and cyst or with FAScreat and cyst and EKFCcreat. The characteristics of patients with SPS (defined with Full‐age spectrum equation (FAS) and/or European Kidney Function Consortium equation (EKFC)) were compared.

Results and conclusion

The prevalence of SPS varies widely depending on the threshold and the formulas used. Higher C‐reactive protein (CRP) and phosphate levels and smaller size are observed in children with SPS defined with FAS and/or EKFC and might be associated with long‐term increased cardiovascular risk. Further studies in wider general pediatric populations are warranted.
Prevalence of eunatremic, eukalemic hypoadrenocorticism in dogs with signs of chronic gastrointestinal disease and risk of misdiagnosis after previous glucocorticoid administration
Authors: Tardo Antonio Maria , Del Baldo Francesca , Leal Rodolfo Oliveira , Galiazzo Giorgia , Pietra Marco , Gaspardo Alba , Fracassi Federico
Published: December 2023

Background

Dogs with eunatremic, eukalemic hypoadrenocorticism (EEH) typically show signs of chronic gastrointestinal disease (CGD). Previous glucocorticoid administration (PGA) can give false‐positive results on the ACTH stimulation test (ACTHst).

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine the prevalence of EEH in dogs with signs of CGD, and to identify clinical and clinicopathological features for EEH and PGA.

Animals

One hundred twelve dogs with CGD (101 non‐PGA and 11 PGA), 20 dogs with EEH.

Methods

Multicenter prospective cohort study. Basal serum cortisol (BSC) concentration was measured in dogs with signs of CGD. When BSC was <2 μg/dL and in PGA dogs, ACTHst plus measurement of endogenous ACTH (eACTH) were performed. Records of dogs with EEH from 2009 to 2021 were reviewed.

Results

The BSC concentration was <2 μg/dL in 48/101 (47.5%) non‐PGA and in 9/11 (82%) PGA dogs. EEH was diagnosed in 1/112 dog (prevalence 0.9%; 95% CI, 0.1%‐4.8%); the ACTHst provided false‐positive results in 2/11 PGA dogs. PGA dogs showed lower C‐reactive protein‐to‐haptoglobin ratio (median 0.01, range 0.003‐0.08; P = .01), and higher haptoglobin (140, 26‐285 mg/dL; P = .002) than non‐PGA dogs (0.04, 0.007‐1.5; 38.5, 1‐246 mg/dL, respectively). eACTH was higher (P = .03) in EEH (396, 5‐>1250 pg/mL) than in non‐PGA dogs (13.5, 7.3‐46.6 pg/mL). Cortisol‐to‐ACTH ratio was lower (P < .0001 and P = .01, respectively) in EEH (0.002, 0.0002‐0.2) than in non‐PGA (0.1, 0.02‐0.2) and PGA dogs (0.1, 0.02‐0.2).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The prevalence of EEH in dogs with signs of CGD was lower than previously reported. The clinical and clinicopathological features herein identified could increase the index of suspicion for EEH or PGA in dogs with an unclear history of glucocorticoid administration.
Deteriorating complementary feeding practices and dietary quality in Jordan: Trends and challenges
Authors: Ghosh Shibani , Shrestha Robin , Ren Yanlin , Salve Karuna , Webb Patrick
Published: December 2023

Quality complementary feeding (CF) of infants and young children is key to their growth and development. But in Jordan, providing appropriate CF remains a challenge. This study assesses trends in infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices, and consumption by infants and young children aged 6–23 months of breast milk substitutes (BMSs), sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs), and micronutrient‐rich foods in Jordan from 1990 to 2017. We combined dietary data on infants and young children from six Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) (n = 14,880 children) to compute IYCF indicators. The latter included minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF), and minimum acceptable diet (MAD), as well as intake of micronutrient‐rich foods and food groups, specific SSBs, and infant formula. We conducted trend analyses using logistic regression models adjusted for child's age in month, child age squared, governorates, urban/rural residence, mother's educational attainment, and household wealth quintiles. We found that the proportion of consumption of micronutrient‐rich food groups declined significantly between 1990 and 2017, with fewer infants and young children consuming eggs (OR = 0.39, p ≤ 0.001, 2002 reference), meat, poultry, and fish (OR = 0.25, p ≤ 0.001, 2002 reference), dairy (OR = 0.59, p ≤ 0.001, 2002 reference) and Vitamin A‐rich fruits and vegetables (OR = 0.66, p ≤ 0.001, 2002 reference). Conversely, there was increased use of BMSs and sugar‐sweetened juices that paralleled a decline in the share of infants and young children meeting appropriate CF practices and consuming micronutrient‐rich foods and food groups. By 2017, children aged 6–23 months were significantly less likely to meet MDD, MMF, and subsequently MAD; the odds of consuming BMSs were almost three times the reference (OR = 3.8, p ≤ 0.001, 1990 reference), as were the odds of consuming sugar sweetened juices  (OR = 3.63, p ≤ 0.001, 1990 reference). Food insecurity and undernutrition are low in Jordan; however, overweight and obesity rates are increasing concurrently as are micronutrient deficiencies. This highlights the need for policymakers to address factors at individual and household levels (behaviours and practices) as well as environmental issues (increasing access to unhealthy and ultraprocessed foods).
Is it possible to generate an additional pleasant and pain‐relieving muscle stimulation when using a low‐frequency spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of lower back pain? Pilot study: A new technique: “MuscleSCS”
Authors: Morgalla Matthias Hubert , Marquetand Justus , Staber Franziska Katharina
Published: December 2023

Objective

The combined use of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and muscle stimulation, in the treatment of chronic pain, using the same probe, could improve the clinical results. However, this technique has not been established as yet. It was our hypothesis that it is possible to generate muscle stimulation by using low frequencies with SCS electrodes and use it to additionally treat chronic back pain.

Methods

We generated muscle stimulation in patients with previously implanted SCS electrodes, for the treatment of lower back pain, by using low frequencies (2, 4, 6, and 8 Hz) and different contact combinations of the electrodes. The results were evaluated by using visual inspection (videos), haptic control, surface electromyography (EMG), and sonographic recordings.

Results

This pilot study (17 patients, seven females, age 36–87 years, 11 percutaneous paddle leads, and 6 octrodes) was performed at the Neurosurgical Department of the University of Tuebingen. The most preferred frequencies were 6 Hz (45.5% of percutaneous paddle leads) and 8 Hz (50% of octrodes) at contacts 3&4 or 5&6. The preference of frequencies differed significantly among genders (p = 0.023). Simultaneous EMG and ultrasonic recordings demonstrated the generation of muscle potentials and the stimulation of deeper muscle groups.

Conclusion

In this study, it has been shown that with low‐frequency SCS stimulation, pleasant and pain‐relieving muscle contractions of the lower and upper back can also be generated. This combined method has been coined by us as “MuscleSCS” technique. Clinical trials are necessary to establish the value of this combined technique and its subtypes.
Pregnancy and birth rate outcomes in alpacas (Vicugna pacos) inseminated with frozen semen using two commercial extenders
Authors: Huamani M. Contreras , Olaguivel Flores C. A. , Palomino C. Y. Guillen , Carretero M. I. , Fumuso F. G. , Arcce I. M. Laines
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate alpaca pregnancy outcomes and birth rates of females inseminated with frozen semen using two commercial extenders. A total of 18 ejaculates from 8 adult alpaca males were obtained with artificial vagina, and macroscopic and microscopic semen characteristics were assessed. Afterwards, samples were divided into two aliquots, diluted with Biladyl® B or AndroMed®, and cooled for 2 h at 5°C. At that moment, sperm motility was evaluated, and samples were frozen through a gradual descent of temperature using a liquid nitrogen tank. To analyse frozen sperm quality, samples were thawed at 38°C for 30 s. Even though a significant decrease in sperm motility and viability was detected when thawed (p < .05), no superiority was found between the two commercial extenders (Biladyl® B vs. AndroMed®). A total of 36 alpaca females were artificially inseminated (AI) between 30 and 34 h post‐injection of a GnRH analogue, administered when a growing dominant follicle was detected through transrectal palpation and ultrasonography. Obtained pregnancy rates were similar between Biladyl® B (33.3%, 6/18) and AndroMed® (22.2%, 4/18). No significant differences were detected in birth rates between the two tested extenders, obtaining 4 and 3 births for Biladyl® and AndroMed®, respectively. In conclusion, alpaca pregnancies and alive offspring can be obtained through AI with frozen semen at similar efficiency rates using commercial diluents, Biladyl® B or AndroMed®.
Macrodendritic ulcerative keratitis and conjunctival lymphoid hyperplasia in horses with equine herpesvirus‐2 and equine herpesvirus‐5 infections
Authors: Ledbetter Eric C. , Cutler Timothy J. , Irby Nita L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, confocal microscopic, histologic, and virologic features of horses with macrodendritic ulcerative keratitis and conjunctival lymphoid hyperplasia associated with equine herpesvirus‐2 and equine herpesvirus‐5 infection.

Animal Studied

Four foals with bilateral ocular disease.

Procedures

Complete ophthalmic examination was performed for each horse, and corneal samples were collected for cytology and microbiologic evaluation, including virus isolation and molecular diagnostics for the equine herpesviruses. In vivo confocal microscopy examination of the cornea was performed in two horses. Conjunctival biopsies for histopathology were collected from two horses with nodular conjunctival thickening.

Results

Each horse had bilateral, large, superficial dendritic corneal ulcerations that covered extensive regions of the corneal surface. Corneal in vivo confocal microscopy examination in two horses detected inflammatory cells and populations of morphologically abnormal corneal epithelial cells adjacent to the ulcerations. The abnormal epithelial cells included round, relatively small, hyperreflective cells intermixed with elongated, enlarged, hyperreflective cells. Equine herpesvirus‐2 was isolated from corneal samples of 2 horses and detected by PCR assay in the other two horses. Equine herpesvirus‐5 was also detected by PCR assay in three of the horses. Conjunctival histopathology identified predominantly lymphocytic infiltrates. The macrodendrites and conjunctival masses resolved with topical antiviral therapy (cidofovir or idoxuridine) in all horses and did not recur.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The equine gammaherpesviruses may be associated with the development of macrodendritic ulcerative keratitis and conjunctival lymphocytic masses in foals. In vivo confocal microscopy of horses with macrodendrites revealed similar findings to other host species with herpetic dendritic keratitis.
Effect of streamwise vane treatments on the noise reduction performance of trailing edge serrations under aerodynamic loading conditions
Authors: Sundeep Shivam , Zhou Peng , Zhong Siyang
Published: December 2023

Trailing edge serrations have shown remarkable ability to reduce noise, but their effectiveness can be significantly impacted by flow misalignment, particularly under aerodynamic loading conditions. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the effect of incorporating streamwise vane treatments at the root of the trailing edge serrations on its noise reduction performance. Experiments were performed on a 100 mm chord NACA 0012 wing model with sawtooth type trailing edge serration. The aeroacoustic performance was investigated for serrations with non-zero flap angle at various angles of attack between −5° and 8.5°. The findings reveal that streamwise vanes can reduce the high-frequency noise by over 5 dB when placed at the root. Furthermore, particle image velocimetry measurements in the wall-normal plane demonstrate a significant decrease in cross-flow and turbulence generation when the treatment was placed near the root of serrations. In addition, the load measurements indicate no noticeable variation in the lift coefficient and up to 6% increase in the drag coefficients in the pre-stall region.
Hegemony and the National Collegiate Athletic Association: A Critical Discourse Analysis of National Collegiate Athletic Association Resources Concerning Name, Image, and Likeness
Authors: Harry Molly
Published: December 2023

When athletes gained rights from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL), the NCAA’s historic hegemony over college sports was challenged. However, given the recency of NIL, there is minimal research on how the NCAA communicated NIL changes to its members during this time. Through the lens of hegemony theory, this research explored how the NCAA communicated its hegemony and its loss of power via its distribution of NIL resources (N = 48). Critical discourse analysis demonstrated the NCAA and its leaders predominantly employed ideological influence in their communications to members and athletes to follow NIL guidelines. This influence centered around appeals to fairness and amateurism. The NCAA also tried to use coercion to force compliance. Finally, with an increasing trend toward decentralization, the NCAA relinquished hegemony in communications that shifted control to member institutions and by requesting federal involvement.
Ultrahigh-gain organic transistors based on van der Waals metal-barrier interlayer-semiconductor junction
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Han Lei , Zou Ye , Liu Bingyao , He Zhi-hao , Huang Yinan , Wang Zhongwu , Zheng Lei , Hu Yong-xu , Zhao Qiang , Sun Yajing , Li Zhi-qing , Gao Peng , Chen Xiaosong , Guo Xiaojun , Li Liqiang , Hu Wenping
Published: December 2023

Intrinsic gain is a vital figure of merit in transistors, closely related to signal amplification, operation voltage, power consumption, and circuit simplification. However, organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) targeted at high gain have suffered from challenges such as narrow subthreshold operating voltage, low-quality interface, and uncontrollable barrier. Here, we report a van der Waals metal-barrier interlayer-semiconductor junction–based OTFT, which shows ultrahigh performance including ultrahigh gain of ~10
4
, low saturation voltage, negligible hysteresis, and good stability. The high-quality van der Waals–contacted junctions are mainly attributed to patterning EGaIn liquid metal electrodes by low-energy microfluidic processes. The wide-bandgap semiconductor Ga
2
O
3
as barrier interlayer is achieved by in situ surface oxidation of EGaIn electrodes, allowing for an adjustable barrier height and expected thermionic emission properties. The organic inverters with a high gain of 5130 and a simplified current stabilizer are further demonstrated, paving a way for high-gain and low-power organic electronics.
Innate TCRβ-chain engagement drives human T cells toward distinct memory-like effector phenotypes with immunotherapeutic potentials
Authors: Vantourout Pierre , Eum Josephine , Conde Poole María , Hayday Thomas S. , Laing Adam G. , Hussain Khiyam , Nuamah Rosamond , Kannambath Shichina , Moisan Jacques , Stoop Allart , Battaglia Sebastiano , Servattalab Roya , Hsu Jonathan , Bayliffe Andrew , Katragadda Madan , Hayday Adrian C.
Published: December 2023

Clonotypic αβ T cell responses to cargoes presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC), MR1, or CD1 proteins underpin adaptive immunity. Those responses are mostly mediated by complementarity-determining region 3 motifs created by quasi-random T cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangements, with diversity being highest for TCRγδ. Nonetheless, TCRγδ also displays nonclonotypic innate responsiveness following engagement of germline-encoded Vγ-specific residues by butyrophilin (BTN) or BTN-like (BTNL) proteins that uniquely mediate γδ T cell subset selection. We now report that nonclonotypic TCR engagement likewise induces distinct phenotypes in TCRαβ
+
cells. Specifically, antibodies to germline-encoded human TCRVβ motifs consistently activated naïve or memory T cells toward core states distinct from those induced by anti-CD3 or superantigens and from others commonly reported. Those states combined selective proliferation and effector function with activation-induced inhibitory receptors and memory differentiation. Thus, nonclonotypic TCRVβ targeting broadens our perspectives on human T cell response modes and might offer ways to induce clinically beneficial phenotypes in defined T cell subsets.