bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collection efficiency and safety of large‐volume leukapheresis for the manufacturing of tisagenlecleucel
Authors: Kitamura Wataru , Urata Tomohiro , Fujii Keiko , Fukumi Takuya , Ikeuchi Kazuhiro , Seike Keisuke , Fujiwara Hideaki , Asada Noboru , Ennishi Daisuke , Matsuoka Ken‐ichi , Otsuka Fumio , Maeda Yoshinobu , Fujii Nobuharu
Published: February 2024

Background

In patients with relapsed or refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia or B cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (r/r B‐ALL/B‐NHL) with low CD3+ cells in the peripheral blood (PB), sufficient CD3+ cell yield in a single day may not be obtained with normal‐volume leukapheresis (NVL). Large‐volume leukapheresis (LVL) refers to the processing of more than three times the total blood volume (TBV) in a single session for PB apheresis; however, the efficiency and safety of LVL for manufacturing of tisagenlecleucel (tisa‐cel) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the tolerability of LVL.

Study Design and Methods

We retrospectively collected data on LVL (≥3‐fold TBV) and NVL (<3‐fold TBV) performed for patients with r/r B‐ALL/B‐NHL in our institution during November 2019 and September 2023. All procedures were performed using a continuous mononuclear cell collection (cMNC) protocol with the Spectra Optia.

Results

Although pre‐apheresis CD3+ cells in the PB were significantly lower in LVL procedures (900 vs. 348/μL, p < .01), all patients could obtain sufficient CD3+ cell yield in a single day with a comparably successful rate of final products (including out‐of‐specification) between the two groups (97.2% vs. 100.0%, p = 1.00). The incidence and severity of citrate toxicity (no patients with grade ≥ 3) during procedures was not significantly different between the two groups (22.2% vs. 26.1%, p = .43) and no patient discontinued leukapheresis due to any complications.

Conclusion

LVL procedures using Spectra Optia cMNC protocol was well tolerated and did not affect the manufacturing of tisa‐cel.
Preliminary evaluation of a commercial shampoo and fine bubble bathing in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: A single‐blinded, randomised, controlled study
Authors: Taguchi Norihito , Onishi Ikki , Iyori Keita , Hsiao Yun‐Hsia
Published: February 2024

Background

Fine bubble (FB) bathing has shown benefits on a mouse model of atopic dermatitis (AD). However, its efficacy in dogs with AD remains to be evaluated.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of FB bathing in dogs with AD.

Animals

Seventeen dogs with AD whose clinical presentation showed a Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI‐04) score of <40.

Materials and Methods

The dogs were randomly assigned to either the FB bathing group or the shampoo group. The treatments were administered once a week as per the instructions, in a trial totalling 4 weeks. Evaluations were conducted on Day (D)0 and D28 to assess the outcomes of the trial. The severity of AD was measured using the CADESI‐04 and the pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS). The skin barrier function parameters, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration were measured before and after the treatment.

Results

Both treatment groups demonstrated a decreasing trend in CADESI‐04 scores, yet the FB group exhibited significant improvement in comparison to the shampoo group after 1 month of trial. There were no significant changes in PVAS scores in either group. No significant difference was found in skin barrier function parameters between the two treatments, although TEWL slightly decreased in the FB group and slightly increased in the shampoo group after treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

These results suggested that FB treatment provides benefits for dogs with AD and offers an alternative topical treatment option with a lesser impact on skin barrier function compared to frequent shampooing.
Evaluation of the impact of diagnostic blood loss and red blood cell transfusion in very‐low‐birth‐weight anaemic neonates during hospitalization: A multi‐centre retrospective clinical study
Authors: Ma Ting , Yang Jiangcun , Sun Yang , Song Aowei , Zhang Jin , Shen Yuan , Hua Kai , Wu Wenjing , Chen Wei
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

Diagnostic blood loss is a significant factor in the development of anaemia in neonates with very low birth weight. This study aimed to assess the clinical efficacy of intervention approaches involving varying diagnostic blood loss and red blood cell transfusion volumes in neonates with very low birth weights experiencing anaemia during hospitalization.

Materials and Methods

A total of 785 newborns with anaemia weighing less than 1500 g were enrolled from 32 hospitals in China. The study involved monitoring diagnostic blood loss and red blood cell transfusion and evaluating relevant interventions such as red blood cell transfusion and clinical outcomes. Three intervention approaches were established based on the difference between blood loss and transfusion (Intervention Approaches 0, 1 and 2). The primary outcomes measured were unsatisfactory weight gain during hospitalization and neonatal mortality. The secondary outcomes included related complications.

Results

In the non‐hospital‐acquired anaemia group, Intervention Approach 2 had the highest incidence of below‐normal weight gain (odds ratio [OR]: 3.019, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.081–8.431, p = 0.035). Multivariate analysis revealed that Intervention Approach 1 had a protective effect on weight gain. In the hospital‐acquired anaemia group, Intervention Approach 2 had the highest incidence of below‐normal weight gain (OR: 3.335, 95% CI: 1.785–6.234, p = 0.000) and mortality (OR: 5.341, 95% CI: 2.449–11.645, p = 0.000), while Intervention Approach 1 had the lowest incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage. Intervention Approach 1 demonstrated favourable outcomes in both anaemia groups.

Conclusion

Intervention Approach 1 improved weight gain and reduced mortality and complications in both the non‐hospital‐acquired and hospital‐acquired anaemia groups.
MRSA infection, re‐infection and clinical outcomes in diabetic foot infections
Authors: Suludere Mehmet A. , Öz Orhan K. , Rogers Lee C. , Wukich Dane K. , Malone Matthew , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: February 2024

The aim was to investigate methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) incidence, conversion and outcomes in diabetic foot infections (DFIs). This is a pooled patient‐level analysis of combined data sets from two randomised clinical trials including 219 patients admitted to the hospital with moderate or severe DFIs. Intraoperative bone and tissue cultures identified bacterial pathogens. We identified pathogens at index infections and subsequent re‐infections. We identified MRSA conversion (MSSA to MRSA) in re‐infections. MRSA incidence in index infections was 10.5%, with no difference between soft tissue infections (STIs) and osteomyelitis (OM). MRSA conversion occurred in 7.7% of the re‐infections in patients who initially had MSSA in their cultures. Patients with re‐infection were 2.2 times more likely to have MRSA compared to the first infection (10.5% vs. 25.8%, relative risk [RR] = 2.2, p = 0.001). Patients with MRSA had longer antibiotic treatment during the 1‐year follow‐up, compared to other pathogens (other 49.8 ± 34.7 days, MRSA 65.3 ± 41.5 days, p = 0.04). Furthermore, there were no differences in healing, time to heal, length of stay, re‐infection, amputation, re‐ulceration, re‐admission, surgery after discharge and amputation after discharge compared to other pathogens. The incidence of MRSA at the index was 10.5% with no difference in STI and OM. MRSA incidence was 25.8% in re‐infections. The RR of having MRSA was 2.2 times higher in re‐infections. Patients with MRSA used more antibiotics during the 1‐year follow‐up. Furthermore, there were no differences in clinical outcomes compared to other bacterial pathogens.
Monetary Integration Effects on Foreign Direct Investments in New EU Member States
Authors: Velić Ismar , Cvečić Igor
Published: February 2024

This study examines the impact of accession to the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in the 11 New Member States (NMS), during the period 2005-2018. Using panel regression analysis and the gravity model, the influence of macroeconomic indicators on FDI outflows from 21 industrialised countries (including EU and non-European counties, such as Japan and USA) to the NMS is assessed. The empirical results suggest that favourable macroeconomic indicators in the NMS, such as a stable exchange rate, lower inflation, long-term interest rates and EU/EMU membership, are positively correlated with FDI inflows from NMS. Conversely, rising inflation and exchange rate volatility in the NMS are negatively associated with FDI inflows, while inflation in the FDI origin countries is positively correlated with investment in the NMS. The results suggest that joining the EMU has a statistically significant and positive relationship on FDI inflows to the NMS.
Minimum Wage Hike and Multinational Enterprises' Employment: Firm-Level Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Jung Hoyong , Park Sunyoung
Published: February 2024

This study examines the impact of a consecutive double-digit hike in Korea's minimum wage from 2018 to 2019 after the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye as an exogenous shock on the employment of multinational enterprises (MNEs). Notably, this topic has received limited attention in extant literature. Using a firm-level dataset covering the period 2006-2020, we find that MNEs respond to increases in the minimum wage by reducing their total employment size, including both regular and temporary workers. Furthermore, the effects are heterogeneous and depend on the participation of international trade and strategic partnerships. Our findings indicate that the minimum wage policy can even lead to a decrease in high-quality jobs within high-productivity companies, underscoring the need to adjust the pace of such increases to mitigate their side effects on the labor market.
Presentación concomitante de queratitis y encefalitis herpética secundarias a infección por virus de la varicela zóster. Presentación de caso
Authors: Echeverri Rodríguez Camila , Aguiar Martínez Leonar
Published: February 2024

El ojo rojo doloroso y las crisis epilépticas son motivos de consulta frecuentes en los servicios de urgencias. El virus de la varicela zóster (VVZ) tiene manifestaciones oculares y en el sistema nervioso central que pueden incluir los síntomas mencionados; sin embargo, cada síntoma suele corresponder a enfermedades aisladas y es infrecuente la concomitancia de la queratitis con la encefalitis herpética. El artículo presenta el caso de una mujer de 66 años, quien ingresó por ojo rojo doloroso y se le diagnosticó queratitis herpética; pero luego tuvo una crisis epiléptica de inicio focal no motora que se enfocó como encefalitis herpética. Posterior a los estudios paraclínicos, se confirmó el diagnóstico de encefalitis por VVZ. Se resalta de este caso clínico que una alta sospecha diagnóstica de encefalitis herpética, a pesar de una presentación clínica infrecuente y sin una relación causal directa descrita hasta ahora en la literatura con la queratitis herpética, llevó a un adecuado diagnóstico.
A New Handheld Tool to Select the Correct Tibial Insert Thickness by Measuring the Force to Push a Trial Insert Into Position During Total Knee Arthroplasty Surgery
Authors: Santana Gabriel , Howell Stephen M. , Hull Maury L.
Published: February 2024

During total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery, an important step is determining the correct insert thickness for each patient. If the insert is too thick, then stiffness results. Or conversely, if the insert is too thin, then instability results. One common method used to determine the insert thickness is by manually assessing the joint laxity; this is a qualitative method that depends on the surgeon's experience and “feel” and is unreliable. The lack of objective methods to reliably determine the correct insert thickness creates a need to develop such a method. One possible method is to measure the force required to push a trial insert into position, requiring a specialized tool to measure the push force. Hence, a new measuring tool was designed to measure the push force intra-operatively, accurately, and safely. To demonstrate functionality, the tool was tested on three patients. During the tests, the surgeon determined the appropriate thicknesses of the insert to trial and proceeded to position three different insert thicknesses ranging from 10 mm to 12 mm, and example push forces were recorded. The new tool met all the design criteria, and the example results from the patient testing show potential in using the peak push force to identify the insert with the correct thickness.
Advances in growth, doping, and devices and applications of zinc oxide
Authors: Saravade Vishal , Feng Zhe Chuan , Nafisa Manika Tun , Zhou Chuanle , Lu Na , Klein Benjamin , Ferguson Ian
Published: February 2024

Zinc oxide is a breakthrough multifunctional material of emerging interest applicable in the areas of electronics, computing, energy harvesting, sensing, optoelectronics, and biomedicine. ZnO has a direct and wide bandgap and high exciton binding energy. It is nontoxic, earth-abundant, and biocompatible. However, the growth and characterization of high-quality ZnO has been a challenge and bottleneck in its development. Efforts have been made to synthesize device-quality zinc oxide and unleash its potential for multiple advanced applications. ZnO could be grown as thin films, nanostructures, or bulk, and its properties could be optimized by tuning the growth techniques, conditions, and doping. Zinc oxide could be a suitable material for next generation devices including spintronics, sensors, solar cells, light-emitting diodes, thermoelectrics, etc. It is important and urgent to collate recent advances in this material, which would strategically help in further research and developments in ZnO. This paper provides a coherent review of developments in ZnO growth, leading to its advancing applications. Recent developments in growth technologies that address native defects, current challenges in zinc oxide, and its emerging applications are reviewed and discussed in this article.
Growth of conformal TiN thin film with low resistivity and impurity via hollow cathode plasma atomic layer deposition
Authors: Lee Ha Young , Han Jeong Hwan , Choi Byung Joon
Published: February 2024

Copper has been used as an interconnect material in integrated semiconductor devices because of its excellent conductivity, mechanical strength, and electromigration resistance. Introducing a diffusion barrier layer using transition metals such as Ti, Ta, W, Mo, and their nitrides can effectively prevent copper diffusion into the transistor region. TiN is widely used as the diffusion barrier. Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD), which uses plasma to activate molecular reactions, can be used to fabricate high-quality thin films at lower temperatures than thermal atomic layer deposition. However, its high electrical resistivity and poor step coverage are disadvantageous for its adoption in highly scaled three-dimensional structures. In this study, TiN thin films were fabricated using PEALD with a hollow cathode plasma (HCP) source. The fabricated TiN exhibited a high density (5.29 g/cm3), which was very close to the theoretical density of TiN. Moreover, it has low electrical resistivity (132 μΩ cm) and excellent step coverage (>98%) in a trench pattern with a high aspect ratio of 32:1. These results suggest the possible application of the PEALD of TiN films using HCP sources in semiconductor device manufacturing.
Anti-Black Racism and Soccer in Canada: Is It Because I’m Black, Ref?
Authors: Nya Paul , Scherer Jay
Published: February 2024

This study critically examines the experiences of members of a sub-Saharan African men’s recreational soccer club with anti-Black racism in a Western Canadian city. Drawing from extensive ethnographic fieldwork, and working at the intersections of Critical Race Theory and Physical Cultural Studies, our analysis focuses on how team members navigate a racial hierarchy that privileges Whiteness and cements their status as outsiders through both overt and subtle forms of racism on the pitch, and the laborious, retraumatizing challenges of “proving” these racist incidents to those in positions of institutional power. We underline the need for anti-racist and anti-oppressive policies and training, and independent judiciaries to monitor and address racist incidents and systemic racism—and its intersections with other forms of oppression—in Canadian sport cultures.
The immunopathological landscape of human pre-TCRα deficiency: From rare to common variants
Authors: Materna Marie , Delmonte Ottavia M. , Bosticardo Marita , Momenilandi Mana , Conrey Peyton E. , Charmeteau-De Muylder Bénédicte , Bravetti Clotilde , Bellworthy Rebecca , Cederholm Axel , Staels Frederik , Ganoza Christian A. , Darko Samuel , Sayed Samir , Le Floc’h Corentin , Ogishi Masato , Rinchai Darawan , Guenoun Andrea , Bolze Alexandre , Khan Taushif , Gervais Adrian , Krüger Renate , Völler Mirjam , Palterer Boaz , Sadeghi-Shabestari Mahnaz , Langlois de Septenville Anne , Schramm Chaim A. , Shah Sanjana , Tello-Cajiao John J. , Pala Francesca , Amini Kayla , Campos Jose S. , Lima Noemia Santana , Eriksson Daniel , Lévy Romain , Seeleuthner Yoann , Jyonouchi Soma , Ata Manar , Al Ali Fatima , Deswarte Caroline , Pereira Anaïs , Mégret Jérôme , Le Voyer Tom , Bastard Paul , Berteloot Laureline , Dussiot Michaël , Vladikine Natasha , Cardenas Paula P. , Jouanguy Emmanuelle , Alqahtani Mashael , Hasan Amal , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Rosain Jérémie , Al Qureshah Fahd , Sabato Vito , Alyanakian Marie Alexandra , Leruez-Ville Marianne , Rozenberg Flore , Haddad Elie , Regueiro Jose R. , Toribio Maria L. , Kelsen Judith R. , Salehi Mansoor , Nasiri Shahram , Torabizadeh Mehdi , Rokni-Zadeh Hassan , Changi-Ashtiani Majid , Vatandoost Nasimeh , Moravej Hossein , Akrami Seyed Mohammad , Mazloomrezaei Mohsen , Cobat Aurélie , Meyts Isabelle , Toyofuku Etsushi , Nishimura Madoka , Moriya Kunihiko , Mizukami Tomoyuki , Imai Kohsuke , Abel Laurent , Malissen Bernard , Al-Mulla Fahd , Alkuraya Fowzan Sami , Parvaneh Nima , von Bernuth Horst , Beetz Christian , Davi Frédéric , Douek Daniel C. , Cheynier Rémi , Langlais David , Landegren Nils , Marr Nico , Morio Tomohiro , Shahrooei Mohammad , Schrijvers Rik , Henrickson Sarah E. , Luche Hervé , Notarangelo Luigi D. , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Béziat Vivien
Published: February 2024

We describe humans with rare biallelic loss-of-function
PTCRA
variants impairing pre–α T cell receptor (pre-TCRα) expression. Low circulating naive αβ T cell counts at birth persisted over time, with normal memory αβ and high γδ T cell counts. Their TCRα repertoire was biased, which suggests that noncanonical thymic differentiation pathways can rescue αβ T cell development. Only a minority of these individuals were sick, with infection, lymphoproliferation, and/or autoimmunity. We also report that 1 in 4000 individuals from the Middle East and South Asia are homozygous for a common hypomorphic
PTCRA
variant. They had normal circulating naive αβ T cell counts but high γδ T cell counts. Although residual pre-TCRα expression drove the differentiation of more αβ T cells, autoimmune conditions were more frequent in these patients compared with the general population.
Retrograde endocannabinoid signaling at inhibitory synapses in vivo
Authors: Dudok Barna , Fan Linlin Z. , Farrell Jordan S. , Malhotra Shreya , Homidan Jesslyn , Kim Doo Kyung , Wenardy Celestine , Ramakrishnan Charu , Li Yulong , Deisseroth Karl , Soltesz Ivan
Published: February 2024

Endocannabinoid (eCB)–mediated suppression of inhibitory synapses has been hypothesized, but this has not yet been demonstrated to occur in vivo because of the difficulty in tracking eCB dynamics and synaptic plasticity during behavior. In mice navigating a linear track, we observed location-specific eCB signaling in hippocampal CA1 place cells, and this was detected both in the postsynaptic membrane and the presynaptic inhibitory axons. All-optical in vivo investigation of synaptic responses revealed that postsynaptic depolarization was followed by a suppression of inhibitory synaptic potentials. Furthermore, interneuron-specific cannabinoid receptor deletion altered place cell tuning. Therefore, rapid, postsynaptic, activity-dependent eCB signaling modulates inhibitory synapses on a timescale of seconds during behavior.
Stop arguing and cut emissions
Authors: Morgan M. Granger , Apt Jay
Published: February 2024

The expert and policy communities have invested enormous effort in debating what greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target to aim for, or which decarbonization policies and technologies should be mandated or banned. Because multiple trajectories can achieve similar targets and timelines, some scenario analysis is useful. However, with many players involved, it will be impossible to remain on anyone’s optimal trajectory. As one of the world’s largest contributors to the climate crisis, the US should stop arguing about perfect solutions and get on with reducing emissions in ways that are feasible and affordable.
The SARS-CoV-2 Spike is a virulence determinant and plays a major role on the attenuated phenotype of Omicron virus in a feline model of infection
Authors: Martins Mathias , Nooruzzaman Mohammed , Cunningham Jessie Lee , Ye Chengjin , Caserta Leonardo Cardia , Jackson Nathaniel , Martinez-Sobrido Luis , Fang Ying , Diel Diego G.
Published: February 2024

The role of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron BA.1 Spike (S) on disease pathogenesis was investigated. For this, we generated recombinant viruses harboring the S D614G mutation (rWA1-D614G) and the Omicron BA.1 S gene (rWA1-Omi-S) in the backbone of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 WA1 strain genome. The recombinant viruses were characterized
in vitro
and
in vivo
. Viral entry, cell-cell fusion, plaque size, and the replication kinetics of the rWA1-Omi-S virus were markedly impaired when compared to the rWA1-D614G virus, demonstrating a lower fusogenicity and ability to spread cell-to-cell of rWA1-Omi-S. To assess the contribution of the Omicron BA.1 S protein to SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, the pathogenicity of rWA1-D614G and rWA1-Omi-S viruses was compared in a feline model. While the rWA1-D614G-inoculated cats were lethargic and showed increased body temperatures on days 2 and 3 post-infection (pi), rWA1-Omi-S-inoculated cats remained subclinical and gained weight throughout the 14-day experimental period. Animals inoculated with rWA1-D614G presented higher infectious virus shedding in nasal secretions, when compared to rWA1-Omi-S-inoculated animals. In addition, tissue replication of the rWA1-Omi-S was markedly reduced compared to the rWA1-D614G, as evidenced by lower viral load in tissues on days 3 and 5 pi. Histologic examination of the nasal turbinate and lungs revealed intense inflammatory infiltration in rWA1-D614G-inoculated animals, whereas rWA1-Omi-S-inoculated cats presented only mild to modest inflammation. Together, these results demonstrate that the S protein is a major virulence determinant for SARS-CoV-2 playing a major role for the attenuated phenotype of the Omicron virus.

IMPORTANCE

We have demonstrated that the Omicron BA.1.1 variant presents lower pathogenicity when compared to D614G (B.1) lineage in a feline model of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. There are over 50 mutations across the Omicron genome, of which more than two-thirds are present in the Spike (S) protein. To assess the role of the Omicron BA.1 S on virus pathogenesis, recombinant viruses harboring the S D614G mutation (rWA1-D614G) and the Omicron BA.1 Spike gene (rWA1-Omi-S) in the backbone of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 WA1 were generated. While the Omicron BA.1 S promoted early entry into cells, it led to impaired fusogenic activity and cell-cell spread. Infection studies with the recombinant viruses in a relevant naturally susceptible feline model of SARS-CoV-2 infection here revealed an attenuated phenotype of rWA1-Omi-S, demonstrating that the Omi-S is a major determinant of the attenuated disease phenotype of Omicron strains.
Artificial food additives: hazardous to long-term health?
Authors: Warner John O
Published: February 2024

Many additives, some of which have no nutritional value, can be legally used in processed foods. They intensify colour, thicken, increase shelf life and enhance flavour. Regulatory authorities issue approvals as safe within acceptable quantitative limits. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contain combinations of all these additives and are particularly attractive to children.

Many publications suggest that artificial colourants, benzoate preservatives, non-caloric sweeteners, emulsifiers and their degradation derivatives have adverse effects by increasing risks of mental health disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and potential carcinogenic effects.

A systematic review has established that artificial azo dye food colourants (AFCs) and sodium benzoate preservative cause disturbed behaviour in children. AFCs and benzoates in animal models have neurotoxic properties through gut microbial generation of toxic metabolites. Observational studies show associations between high emulsifier intake and cardiovascular disease. Animal models and in vitro studies have highlighted neurotoxic, cytotoxic, genotoxic and carcinogenic effects. High intake of non-caloric sweeteners has been linked to cardiovascular disease and depression in adults and is linked to childhood obesity.

Little research has focused on children who are the largest consumers of UPFs. Potentially, they are a ticking time bomb for adult obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, mental health disorders and cancers. Based on risk/benefit analysis, azo dye AFCs should be banned. Benzoates, emulsifiers and sweeteners require assessment of quantitative limits and cumulative effects of combinations. Consumers purchasing UPFs require information through ingredient health warnings and recommendations to use natural unprocessed foods which have well-described health-promoting properties.
Epileptic seizures and abnormal tooth development as primary presentation of pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B
Authors: Van der Biest Anne-Marie , Jüppner Harald , Andreescu Corina , Bravenboer Bert
Published: February 2024

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare genetic disorder characterised by a non-functioning PTH. Usually, the diagnosis is made following (symptomatic) hypocalcaemia. We describe a case in which epileptic seizures and abnormalities in dental development were the main clinical manifestation of PHP type 1B. This case demonstrates the importance of screening for hypocalcaemia in patients withde novoepileptic seizures. In addition, antiepileptic medications themselves may interfere with calcium-phosphate metabolism, causing or aggravating a hypocalcaemia as well. By correcting the calcium level, a resolution of these symptoms could be obtained.
Retroperitoneal ‘uterus-like mass’ of cervical origin
Authors: Karim Nouran , Pantilie Patricia , Kamran Waseem
Published: February 2024

We report a rare case of a retroperitoneal uterus-like mass communicating with the endocervix, which presented as abdominal pain and bloating associated with severe irregular vaginal and postcoital bleeding. Our patient did not have any structural abnormalities of the urogenital system or otherwise, which makes a müllerian defect unlikely in our case. Based on the diagnostic criteria for the choristoma, that theory would be excluded here as the mass communicated with the endocervix. This strengthens the theory of metaplasia, under the effect of oestrogen and accelerated by the hyperoestrogenic state of pregnancy as the most likely postulate for our patient. Although the uterus-like mass is not commonly reported, it should be considered as a possible differential for pelvic masses.
Exposure-response associations between chronic exposure to fine particulate matter and risks of hospital admission for major cardiovascular diseases: population based cohort study
Authors: Wei Yaguang , Feng Yijing , Danesh Yazdi Mahdieh , Yin Kanhua , Castro Edgar , Shtein Alexandra , Qiu Xinye , Peralta Adjani A , Coull Brent A , Dominici Francesca , Schwartz Joel D
Published: February 2024

Objective

To estimate exposure-response associations between chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and risks of the first hospital admission for major cardiovascular disease (CVD) subtypes.

Design

Population based cohort study.

Setting

Contiguous US.

Participants

59 761 494 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged ≥65 years during 2000-16. Calibrated PM2.5predictions were linked to each participant’s residential zip code as proxy exposure measurements.

Main outcome measures

Risk of the first hospital admission during follow-up for ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, valvular heart disease, thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms, or a composite of these CVD subtypes. A causal framework robust against confounding bias and bias arising from errors in exposure measurements was developed for exposure-response estimations.

Results

Three year average PM2.5exposure was associated with increased relative risks of first hospital admissions for ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, and thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms. For composite CVD, the exposure-response curve showed monotonically increased risk associated with PM2.5: compared with exposures ≤5 µg/m3(the World Health Organization air quality guideline), the relative risk at exposures between 9 and 10 µg/m3, which encompassed the US national average of 9.7 µg/m3during the study period, was 1.29 (95% confidence interval 1.28 to 1.30). On an absolute scale, the risk of hospital admission for composite CVD increased from 2.59% with exposures ≤5 µg/m3to 3.35% at exposures between 9 and 10 µg/m3. The effects persisted for at least three years after exposure to PM2.5. Age, education, accessibility to healthcare, and neighborhood deprivation level appeared to modify susceptibility to PM2.5.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that no safe threshold exists for the chronic effect of PM2.5on overall cardiovascular health. Substantial benefits could be attained through adherence to the WHO air quality guideline.
Women in Health and their Economic, Equity and Livelihood statuses during Emergency Preparedness and Response (WHEELER) protocol: a mixed methods study in Kenya
Authors: Langat Evaline Chepchichir , Mazoya Bilali Yusuf , Oginga Pauline , Okwaro Ferdinand , Matheka Norah , Kibara Irene , Otieno Rhoda , Mantel Michaela , Lorway Robert , du Plessis Elsabe , Temmerman Marleen , Avery Lisa
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Kenya reported its first COVID-19 case on 13 March 2020. Pandemic-driven health system changes followed and unforeseen societal, economic and health effects reported. This protocol aims to describe the methods used to identify the gender equality and health equity gaps and possible disproportional health and socioeconomic impacts experienced by paid and unpaid (community health volunteer) female healthcare providers in Kilifi and Mombasa Counties, Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods and analysis

Participatory mixed methods framed by gender analysis and human-centred design will be used. Research implementation will follow four of the five phases of the human-centred design approach. Community research advisory groups and local advisory boards will be established to ensure integration and the sustainability of participatory research design.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee at the Aga Khan University and the University of Manitoba.

This study will generate evidence on root cultural, structural, socioeconomic and political factors that perpetuate gender inequities and female disadvantage in the paid and unpaid health sectors. It will also identify evidence-based policy options for future safeguarding of the unpaid and paid female health workforce during emergency preparedness, response and recovery periods.
Knowledge, practice and attitudes regarding substance use disorder treatment and harm reduction strategies among pharmacists: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Pope Elle , McCullough Megan , Smith Jason G , Kim Bo
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Pharmacists provide a spectrum of services and comprehensive medication management for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) with many providing timely and increased access to care for patients. Prior studies have evaluated other healthcare professionals’ attitudes, knowledge and practice in regard to SUD treatment and harm reduction services. However, no reviews to date summarise the available literature on the attitudes, knowledge and practice in regard to SUD treatment and harm reduction services from the pharmacist perspective. This scoping review aims to systematically map the extent, range and nature of available evidence and identify and describe gaps in knowledge, practice and attitudes towards SUD treatment among pharmacists with the goal of providing information for meaningful integration of pharmacists into SUD care.

Methods and analysis

We will use the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) updated with recommendations by Levacet al(2010) and the Joanna Briggs Institute (2020). The protocol is registered via Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/92dek). We will search for peer-reviewed literature containing empirical evidence investigating SUD treatment or harm reduction with outcomes pertaining to the knowledge, practice or attitudes of pharmacists. Findings will be guided and assessed by research objectives and summarised using descriptive statistics and thematically for quantitative and qualitative findings, respectively. This review will be conducted and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews.

Ethics and dissemination

Our findings will provide crucial information and support for future interventions and programmes which aim to meaningfully integrate pharmacists into SUD care. We will disseminate findings at conferences and publish in a peer-reviewed journal. In addition, we will integrate feedback on search strategy, data extraction and our dissemination approach from multidisciplinary collaborators including those within our team’s institution and outside experts with clinical or administrative knowledge in SUD care.
Impact of mental health comorbidity in children and young adults with inflammatory bowel disease: a UK population-based cohort study
Authors: Cooney Rachel , Barrett Kevin , Russell Richard K
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the impact of mental health comorbidity in children and young adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Representative population, routinely collected primary care data from the UK Optimum Patient Care Research Database (2015–2019).

Participants

Patients with IBD aged 5–25 years with mental health conditions were compared with patients with IBD of the same age without mental health conditions.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Outcomes comprised quality-of-life indicators (low mood, self-harm, parasuicide, bowel symptoms, absence from school or work, unemployment, substance use and sleep disturbance), IBD interventions (medication, abdominal surgery, stoma formation and nutritional supplements) and healthcare utilisation (primary care interactions and hospital admissions).

Results

Of 1943 individuals aged 5–25 years with IBD, 295 (15%) had a mental health comorbidity. Mental health comorbidity was associated with increased bowel symptoms (adjusted incident rate ratio (aIRR) 1.82; 95% CI 1.33 to 2.52), sleep disturbance (adjusted HR (aHR) 1.63; 95% CI 1.02 to 2.62), substance use (aHR 3.63; 95% CI 1.69 to 7.78), primary care interactions (aIRR 1.33; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.58) and hospital admissions (aIRR 1.87; 95%CI 1.29 to 2.75). In individuals ≥18 years old, mental health comorbidity was associated with increased time off work (aHR 1.55; 95% CI 1.21 to 1.99).

Conclusions

Mental health comorbidity in children and young adults with IBD is associated with poorer quality of life, higher healthcare utilisation and more time off work. It is imperative that affected young patients with IBD are monitored and receive early mental health support as part of their multidisciplinary care.

Trial registration number

The study protocol was specified and registered a priori (ClinicalTrials.gov study identifier:NCT05206734).
Carbon footprint of hospital laundry: a life-cycle assessment
Authors: John Joseph , Collins Michael , O'Flynn Kieran , Briggs Tim , Gray William , McGrath John
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To assess greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from a regional hospital laundry unit, and model ways in which these can be reduced.

Design

A cradle to grave process-based attributional life-cycle assessment.

Setting

A large hospital laundry unit supplying hospitals in Southwest England.

Population

All laundry processed through the unit in 2020–21 and 2021–22 financial years.

Primary outcome measure

The mean carbon footprint of processing one laundry item, expressed as in terms of the global warming potential over 100 years, as carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e).

Results

Average annual laundry unit GHG emissions were 2947 t CO2e. Average GHG emissions were 0.225 kg CO2e per item-use and 0.5080 kg CO2e/kg of laundry. Natural gas use contributed 75.7% of on-site GHG emissions. Boiler electrification using national grid electricity for 2020–2022 would have increased GHG emissions by 9.1%, however by 2030 this would reduce annual emissions by 31.9% based on the national grid decarbonisation trend. Per-item transport-related GHG emissions reduce substantially when heavy goods vehicles are filled at ≥50% payload capacity. Single-use laundry item alternatives cause significantly higher per-use GHG emissions, even if reusable laundry were transported long distances and incinerated at the end of its lifetime.

Conclusions

The laundry unit has a large carbon footprint, however the per-item GHG emissions are modest and significantly lower than using single-use alternatives. Future electrification of boilers and optimal delivery vehicle loading can reduce the GHG emissions per laundry item.
Sickle Eye Project: a cross-sectional, non-interventional study of the prevalence of visual impairment due to sickle cell retinopathy and maculopathy in the UK
Authors: Dinah Christiana , Balaskas Konstantinos , Greystoke Brigit , Awadzi Rossby , Beke Peter , Ahern Roger , Talks James
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common genetic disorders in the UK, with over 15 000 people affected. Proliferative sickle cell retinopathy (SCR) is a well-described complication of SCD and can result in significant sight loss, although the prevalence in the UK is not currently known. There are currently no national screening guidelines for SCR, with wide variations in the management of the condition across the UK.

Methods and analysis

The Sickle Eye Project is an epidemiological, cross-sectional, non-interventional study to determine the prevalence of visual impairment due to SCR and/or maculopathy in the UK. Haematologists in at least 16 geographically dispersed hospitals in the UK linked to participating eye clinics will offer study participation to consecutive patients meeting the inclusion criteria attending the sickle cell clinic. The following study procedures will be performed: (a) best corrected visual acuity with habitual correction and pinhole, (b) dilated slit lamp biomicroscopy and funduscopy, (c) optical coherence tomography (OCT), (d) OCT angiography where available, (e) ultrawide fundus photography, (f) National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 and (g) acceptability of retinal screening questionnaire. The primary outcome is the proportion of people with SCD with visual impairment defined as logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution ≥0.3 in at least one eye. Secondary outcomes include the prevalence of each stage of SCR and presence of maculopathy by age and genotype; correlation of stage of SCR and maculopathy to severity of SCD; the impact of SCR and presence of maculopathy on vision-related quality of life; and the acceptability to patients of routine retinal imaging for SCR and maculopathy.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the South Central–Oxford A Research Ethics Committee (REC 23/SC/0363). Findings will be reported through academic journals in ophthalmology and haematology.
Impact of involvement in mental health professional education on patient educators: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: Stanyon Miriam , Ryan Karl , Dilks Joanna , Hartshorn Kirsty , Ingley Paul , Kumar Brijesh , Sira Mahalinggappa Sridevi , Mullins Elizabeth , Misquitta Olivia , Sidwell Alexa , Dave Subodh
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Patient involvement in mental health professional education is required by policy but lacks a robust evidence base. The impact of involvement in education on patients with mental health conditions may differ from that of patients with other conditions. This study aims to review the impact of involvement in mental health professional education on the patients with mental health conditions involved.

Setting

Electronic databases MEDLINE, PubMed, AMED, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Emcare, BNI, HMIC and CINAHL were systematically searched to find articles reporting on health professional teaching interventions involving patients with mental health conditions and the psychological, social or physical impact of involvement. The search took place in August 2023.

Results

Findings from 20 articles were amalgamated into four synthesised findings: (1) Impact of general involvement (2) impact of making a difference through teaching, (3) impact of new relationships and (4) impact of talking about experiences.

Conclusions

Patient involvement in mental health professional education can be beneficial for patients with mental health conditions when their experiences are respected and valued as expertise by students and academic staff. The experiences of patient educators in the mental health field are unique in that teaching activities interact with their mental health. Future research should evaluate patient involvement in the mental health field separately and report research findings according to reporting guidelines.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020224907.
Paroxysmal dysarthria-ataxia syndrome
Authors: Cauchi Marija , Abela Janice , Dingli Nicola , Vella Norbert
Published: February 2024

Paroxysmal dysarthria ataxia syndrome presents with recurrent, brief, stereotyped events of dysarthria, limb clumsiness, unsteady gait and vertigo or dizziness that can occur in association with lesions in the midbrain. We describe a case of a woman presenting with paroxysmal dysarthria and ataxia secondary to a midbrain lesion, treated successfully with carbamazepine.
Ammonium phosphate is a potential nitrogen supplement in nitrogen-limiting diets for growing pigs
Authors: Buchinski Miranda J. , Camire Carley M. , Babatunde Olufemi O. , Shoveller Anna K. , Columbus Daniel A.
Published: February 2024

Reduced protein diets may be limiting in dietary nitrogen (N). The objective of this study was to determine the impact of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) inclusion and lysine content on growth performance of growing pigs. Pen-housed growing pigs were randomly assigned to one of six dietary treatments to test the impact of NPN inclusion and dietary lysine content for 28 days. NPN inclusion increased feed efficiency and lean depth ( P < 0.05). Final body weight increased with greater lysine ( P < 0.05) but was not impacted by NPN ( P > 0.05). Ammonium phosphate may be an appropriate N source in N-limiting diets for pigs.
Stable isotopes delineate regional pelagic food web structure in British Columbia’s coastal ocean
Authors: Lerner Jacob E. , Hunt Brian P. V.
Published: February 2024

The pelagic food webs of British Columbia’s (BC) coastal oceans have never had a comprehensive review of their trophic structure. In this study, we analyzed carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope ratios of pelagic food web components collected from four regions in southern BC: Juan de Fuca Strait, the Strait of Georgia, Queen Charlotte Strait, and Queen Charlotte Sound during an August 2019 survey. In addition, conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD), chlorophyll, and nutrient data were collected to assess the oceanographic basis for regionalization. Between regions, we observed differences in the isotopic baseline driven by regional oceanography. Likewise, we also observed oceanography-driven differences in regional food chain length, carbon range, and isotopic overlap. Species-specific trophic level and isotopic niche were determined. For common pelagic species, we described how trophic level varied regionally, was not always in line with previously published dietary data, and instead largely tracked regional changes in food chain length. We conclude that variable food web properties and trophic ecology can manifest across the small spatial scales of the BC coast’s discrete regions.
Repeating fast radio bursts produced by a strange star interacting with its planet in an eccentric orbit
Authors: Nurmamat Nurimangul , Huang Yong-Feng , Geng Jin-Jun , Kurban Abdusattar , Li Bing
Published: February 2024

FRB 180916 is an important repeating fast radio burst (FRB) source. Interestingly, the activity of FRB 180916 shows a well-regulated behavior, with a period of 16.35 days. The bursts are found to occur in a duty cycle of about 5 days in each period. In this study, we suggest that the bursts of FRB 180916 are produced by a strange star interacting with its planet. The planet moves in a highly eccentric orbit around its compact host, with the periastron only slightly beyond the tidal disruption radius. As a result, the planet will be partially disrupted every time it passes through the periastron. The stripped material from the planet will be accreted by the strange star, falling to the polar cap region along the magnetic field lines and accumulated there. It will finally lead to a local collapse when the crust at the polar region is overloaded, triggering an FRB. The observed 16.35 day period corresponds to the orbital motion of the planet, and the 5 day duty cycle is explained as the duration of the partial disruption near the periastron. The energy released in each local collapse event can be as high as $$\sim 10^{42}\,\textrm{erg}$$

∼

10
42

erg

, which is large enough to account for typical FRBs even if the radiation efficiency is low.