bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of on-site and on-call nurse on exclusive breastfeeding in two different hospital settings: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Latorre Giuseppe , Martinelli Domenico , Capozza Manuela , Grosso Francesca Maria , Laforgia Nicola , Baldassarre Maria Elisabetta
Published: September 2024

Background

Exclusive breastfeeding during postpartum hospitalization is very important for ensuring the success of breastfeeding at home. The aim of the study is to determine if the on-site nurse in rooming in improves exclusive breastfeeding ratio.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study to evaluate exclusive breastfeeding during the first three months of life in two Neonatology Units in the South of Italy with different hospital settings: Ente Ecclesiastico Miulli of Acquaviva delle Fonti with on-site nurse h24 (on-site group) and Policlinico of Bari with nurse available on call h24 from Neonatology Unit (on-call group).

Results

A total of 564 mother-baby dyads were admitted from 3 January to 31 March 2018 (299 in on-site group and 265 in on-call group). In the overall population, exclusive breastfeeding rate was 76.4% at 90-days, confirming the role of nurse and rooming in, independently of modality of setting. Considering the way of delivery, in infants from cesarean section there were higher rates for exclusive breastfeeding at 30 and 90 days of life in on-site group.

Conclusions

We can assume that the presence of a nurse h24 could better identify breastfeeding problems. Our study suggests the role of on-site nurse during rooming in to encourage exclusive breastfeeding until three months of life in mothers who underwent caesarean section.
Extracellular vesicle miRNome during subclinical mastitis in dairy cows
Authors: Cuccato Matteo , Divari Sara , Giannuzzi Diana , Grange Cristina , Moretti Riccardo , Rinaldi Andrea , Leroux Christine , Sacchi Paola , Cannizzo Francesca Tiziana
Published: September 2024

Bovine mastitis is one of the main inflammatory diseases that can affect the udder during lactation. Somatic cell counts and sometimes microbiological tests are routinely adopted during monitoring diagnostics in dairy herds. However, subclinical mastitis is challenging to identify, reducing the possibility of early treatments. The main aim of this study was to investigate the miRNome profile of extracellular vesicles isolated from milk as potential biomarkers of subclinical mastitis. Milk samples were collected from a total of 60 dairy cows during routine monitoring tests. Small RNA sequencing technology was applied to extracellular vesicles of milk samples collected from cows classified according to the somatic cell count to identify differences in the miRNome between mastitic and healthy cows. A total of 1997 miRNAs were differentially expressed between both groups. Among them, 68 miRNAs whose FDRs were < 0.05 were mostly downregulated, with only one upregulated miRNA (i.e., miR-361). Functional analysis revealed that miR-455-3p, miR-503-3p, miR-1301-3p and miR-361-5p are involved in the regulation of several biological processes related to mastitis, including immune system-related processes. This study suggests the involvement of extracellular vesicle-derived miRNAs in the regulation of mastitis. Moreover, these findings provide evidence that miRNAs from milk extracellular vesicles can be used to identify biomarkers of mastitis. However, further studies must be conducted to validate these miRNAs, especially for subclinical diagnosis.
A review of the growth behaviour of stands and trees in even-aged, monospecific forest
Authors: West P. W.
Published: September 2024

Key message

Metabolic, physiological and inter-tree competitive processes interact to determine long-term growth behaviour of stands and individual trees of even-aged, monospecific forests.

Context

Even-aged, monospecific forests go through an initial phase from seedling establishment to full canopy development, then follows a progressive decline in growth rate, leading eventually to tree senescence and death. Individual trees show a relationship between their maximum possible growth rates and their sizes (hence ages), maxima that show a progressive decline as the trees grow larger. Growth rates are further restricted by competition with their neighbours for access from the site to the light, water and mineral nutrients essential to their growth. To ensure they remain standing upright and can access the resources they need, trees must maintain a balance between the sizes of both their above- and below-ground parts.

Aims

This review aimed to summarise what is known about the various biological factors that control these growth processes, both at the stand and individual tree levels.

Conclusions

The principal factors determining growth behaviour are species characteristics, environmental circumstances of the site on which the forest is growing, availability from the site of the resources essential to growth, sizes (hence ages) of individual trees, competition between neighbours for growth resources and partitioning of growth between the parts of individuals to maintain an appropriate balance between their sizes.
Deciphering breast cancer dynamics: insights from single-cell and spatial profiling in the multi-omics era
Authors: Xiong Xin , Wang Xin , Liu Cui-Cui , Shao Zhi-Ming , Yu Ke-Da
Published: September 2024

As one of the most common tumors in women, the pathogenesis and tumor heterogeneity of breast cancer have long been the focal point of research, with the emergence of tumor metastasis and drug resistance posing persistent clinical challenges. The emergence of single-cell sequencing (SCS) technology has introduced novel approaches for gaining comprehensive insights into the biological behavior of malignant tumors. SCS is a high-throughput technology that has rapidly developed in the past decade, providing high-throughput molecular insights at the individual cell level. Furthermore, the advent of multitemporal point sampling and spatial omics also greatly enhances our understanding of cellular dynamics at both temporal and spatial levels. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of SCS, and highlights the most recent advancements in utilizing SCS and spatial omics for breast cancer research. The findings from these studies will serve as valuable references for future advancements in basic research, clinical diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.
Profiling the lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA interaction network in the cold-resistant exercise period of grape (Vitis amurensis Rupr.)
Authors: Ma Weifeng , Ma Lijuan , Ma Zonghuan , Li Wenfang , Lu Shixiong , Gou Huimin , Mao Juan , Chen Baihong
Published: September 2024

Background

Grape is a plant that is sensitive to low temperature and vulnerable to low-temperature damage. However, little is known about the roles of lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs in regulating the hypothermia response mechanism in Vitis amurensis Rupr.

Methods

In this study, the expression and regulatory network of low-temperature response genes were studied in the phloem of grape under different low-temperature stress.

Results

Here, we performed analyses related to RNA-seq and miRNA-seq on grape phloem tissues from five periods of cold resistance campaigns. Three RNAs (lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs) obtained by KEGG and GO analyses were used to identify starch and sucrose metabolism associated with cold resistance, and specific changes in BP, CC, and MF were identified in four comparisons. Venn diagrams, thermograms and pathway maps were used to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and their specific gene expression during the cold exercise were obtained. The six DEGs finally selected were used for qRT-PCR to verify the RNA-seq data. In addition, we found that the regulatory networks of miRNAs and lncRNAs correspond to the six DEGs. This study will contribute to further experimental studies to elucidate the cold resistance mechanism of Vitis amurensis Rupr.

Conclusions

The low-temperature response genes of grape are mainly enriched in the starch and sucrose metabolism, and they are regulated by miRNAs and lncRNAs. The conclusions will provide basic information for further understanding of the cold resistance mechanism of grape in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Remifentanil vs. dexmedetomidine for cardiac surgery patients with noninvasive ventilation intolerance: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hao Guang-wei , Wu Jia-qing , Yu Shen-ji , Liu Kai , Xue Yan , Gong Qian , Xie Rong-cheng , Ma Guo-guang , Su Ying , Hou Jun-yi , zhang Yi-jie , Liu Wen-jun , Li Wei , Tu Guo-wei , Luo Zhe
Published: September 2024

Background

The optimal sedative regime for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) intolerance remains uncertain. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of remifentanil (REM) compared to dexmedetomidine (DEX) in cardiac surgery patients with moderate-to-severe intolerance to NIV.

Methods

In this multicenter, prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study, adult cardiac surgery patients with moderate-to-severe intolerance to NIV were enrolled and randomly assigned to be treated with either REM or DEX for sedation. The status of NIV intolerance was evaluated using a four-point NIV intolerance score at different timepoints within a 72-h period. The primary outcome was the mitigation rate of NIV intolerance following sedation.

Results

A total of 179 patients were enrolled, with 89 assigned to the REM group and 90 to the DEX group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups, including NIV intolerance score [3, interquartile range (IQR) 3–3 vs. 3, IQR 3–4,p = 0.180]. The chi-squared test showed that mitigation rate, defined as the proportion of patients who were relieved from their initial intolerance status, was not significant at most timepoints, except for the 15-min timepoint (42% vs. 20%,p = 0.002). However, after considering the time factor, generalized estimating equations showed that the difference was statistically significant, and REM outperformed DEX (odds ratio = 3.31, 95% confidence interval: 1.35–8.12,p = 0.009). Adverse effects, which were not reported in the REM group, were encountered by nine patients in the DEX group, with three instances of bradycardia and six cases of severe hypotension. Secondary outcomes, including NIV failure (5.6% vs. 7.8%,p = 0.564), tracheostomy (1.12% vs. 0%,p = 0.313), ICU LOS (7.7 days, IQR 5.8–12 days vs. 7.0 days, IQR 5–10.6 days,p = 0.219), and in-hospital mortality (1.12% vs. 2.22%,p = 0.567), demonstrated comparability between the two groups.

Conclusions

In summary, our study demonstrated no significant difference between REM and DEX in the percentage of patients who achieved mitigation among cardiac surgery patients with moderate-to-severe NIV intolerance. However, after considering the time factor, REM was significantly superior to DEX.

Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04734418), registered on January 22, 2021. URL of the trial registry record:https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S000AM4S&selectaction=Edit&uid=U00038YX&ts=3&cx=eqn1z0.
Comparative study of the growth, stress status and reproductive capabilities of four wild-type zebrafish (Danio rerio) lines
Authors: Chevalier Céline , Denis Clémence , Nedjar Sid-Ahmed , Ledoré Yannick , Silvestre Frédéric , Schaerlinger Bérénice , Milla Sylvain
Published: September 2024

Background

Zebrafish are widely used in various research fields and to fulfil the diverse research needs, numerous zebrafish lines are available, each with a unique domestication background, potentially resulting in intraspecies differences in specific biological functions. Few studies have compared multiple zebrafish lines under identical conditions to investigate both inter- and intra-line variability related to different functions. However, such variability could pose a challenge for the reproducibility of results in studies utilising zebrafish, particularly when the line used is not clearly specified. This study assessed growth, stress status (cortisol, serotonin) and reproductive capabilities (maturity, fecundity, fertilisation rate, sperm quality) of four commonly used wild-type zebrafish lines (AB, SJD, TU, WIK) using standardized protocols.

Results

The stress markers levels were found to be similar across the lines, indicating that the endocrine stress status is robust to diverse domestication histories. Variations were observed in the growth and reproductive parameters. The lines exhibited differences in the timing of puberty (86 dpf for AB and SJD lines vs. 107 dpf for the WIK line) despite achieving similar sizes, suggesting that there are line-specific variations in the induction of maturation. Additionally, the AB line demonstrated higher sperm quality than did the other lines and higher fecundity and fertilization rates than did the SJD line. The AB line also exhibiting a smaller adult size but a heavier brain relative to its body weight.

Conclusion

These findings emphasize the importance of line selection for zebrafish research, indicating that researchers should consider line-specific traits to ensure the biological relevance and reproducibility of the results.
Virtual reality in telepsychiatry is a new horizon for immersive mental health therapy
Authors: Hasan Md. Kamrul
Published: September 2024

The use of virtual reality (VR) in telepsychiatry signifies a paradigm shift in mental health care. VR provides realistic, interactive environments for therapies like exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, resulting in reliable and reproducible scenarios that improve treatment effectiveness. This technology enhances accessibility for those with geographical or physical limitations, lowers stigma, and boosts patient engagement and adherence by making treatment activities more pleasurable and interesting. Furthermore, VR may emulate social interactions and circumstances that are difficult to replicate in typical treatment settings, providing useful practice for people with social anxiety or autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Despite its great potential, integrating VR into telepsychiatry offers problems such as high VR equipment costs, assuring clinical effectiveness and safety, and securing patient data. Future research should prioritize large-scale, randomized controlled trials to determine the efficacy of VR-based therapy, investigate long-term consequences, and offer cost-effective solutions. By tackling these issues and investing in novel research, VR has the potential to greatly improve telepsychiatry, making mental health care more effective, engaging, and easily available to people all over the world.
The pathway to delivering injectable CAB for HIV prevention: strategies from global PrEP leaders leveraging an adapted version of the Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool (ISAT)
Authors: Violette Lauren R. , Zewdie Kidist , Gitahi Nyawira , Beima-Sofie Kristin , Heffron Renee
Published: September 2024

Background

Longer-acting cabotegravir (CAB) is a novel, safe, and efficacious pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. As we near a time for CAB scale-up, the experience of global leaders in PrEP research and implementation can be leveraged to identify optimal strategies for scaling and integrating CAB into existing PrEP infrastructure worldwide.

Methods

We recruited leaders of HIV prevention clinical trials and large PrEP programs through a combination of purposive and snowball sampling for participation in individual interviews. We conducted interviews using a semi-structured guide that compared CAB to oral PrEP and sought perspectives on barriers and strategies for CAB scale-up. Interviews were conducted virtually, audio recorded, and transcribed. We used thematic analysis, grounded in an adapted version of the Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool (ISAT), to identify critical elements for optimizing delivery of CAB.

Results

From October 2021 to April 2022, we interviewed 30 participants with extensive experience in PrEP research, care, and programming. Participants worked in all seven WHO regions and reported a median of 20 years working in HIV and 10 years in PrEP. Participants agreed that CAB was efficacious and discrete, therefore having the potential to address current concerns about oral PrEP adherence and stigma. Participants indicated direct and indirect costs for provider training, expansion of existing medical infrastructure, and the current medication cost of CAB as major concerns for roll out. The true cost to the end-user and health system were unknown. There were some conflicting strategies on how to best address product targeting, presentation of efficacy, and timing of product availability with scale-up. Some thought that targeting CAB for the general population could normalize PrEP and decrease stigma, while others thought that prioritizing key populations could optimize impact by targeting those with highest risk. Overall, participants emphasized that to ensure successful CAB scale-up, communities and stakeholders must be involved at every stage of planning and implementation.

Conclusions

Our evaluation found that although there is a clear and urgent need for additional HIV PrEP options beyond daily oral PrEP, CAB scale-up must be thoughtful, flexible, and based in lessons learned from oral PrEP rollout.
Area deprivation index, a marker of socioeconomic disadvantage, may predict severity of COVID-19 in patients and which families may experience worse symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression post-ICU
Authors: Mayer Megan , Althoff Meghan , Csikesz Nicholas , Yu Stephanie , Cruse Hope , Stapleton Renee , Amass Timothy
Published: September 2024

Background

COVID-19 disproportionately impacted marginalized populations early in the pandemic. Families of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) experienced significant psychological effects. Little is known about whether individual and patient psychological outcomes after a loved ones stay in the ICU differs by socioeconomic status, as measured by the area deprivation index (ADI).

Methods

Family members of patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure admitted to the ICU at twelve hospitals in five US states were enrolled in a larger study looking at rates of symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in the months following their loved one's ICU stay. This secondary data analysis includes eight of the twelve hospitals in four of the five states. Each participant was assigned a number indicating a level of neighborhood disadvantage based on the patient’s zip code. Patient and family level characteristics as well as symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD were assessed among each neighborhood.

Results

Patients from the most disadvantaged neighborhoods had the highest proportion of patients that needed to be intubated (p = 0.005). All the patients in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods were a race other than white (p = 0.17). At 12 months post-hospitalization, there was a statistically significant difference in the proportion of family members who experienced symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression between the ADI groups.

Conclusions

ADI may be a predictor of COVID-19 disease severity for patients on presentation to the ICU. Patients and family members experience psychological effects after a loved one’s admission to the ICU, and these outcomes vary among individuals of different socioeconomic status’, as measured by the ADI. A larger study of family members’ incidence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder is needed to understand the extent to which these symptoms are impacted by neighborhood level factors as measured by the ADI.
Age and Sex Affects the Frequency and Mutation Type of FGFR2 Alterations in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Z. Ian , Ross Jeffrey S. , Pavlick Dean , Hsiehchen David
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

FGFR2 alterations are infrequent but currently represent the most common targetable mutation in cholangiocarcinoma. We performed a large-scale genomic analysis to assess associations between FGFR2 and other driver gene alterations in cholangiocarcinoma with patient demographics.

METHODS

Clinical and molecular data for patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma were abstracted from the Foundation Medicine (FMI) and Genomics, Evidence, Neoplasia, Information, Exchange (GENIE) genomic databases. The Chi-squared test was used to assess the association between sex and alterations in driver genes. FGFR2 fusion partners were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Across both FMI (N = 7,859) and GENIE (N = 1,395) cohorts, FGFR2 rearrangements were more frequent in female than male patients with cholangiocarcinoma (odds ratio, 1.69 and 2.45). By contrast, FGFR2 missense mutations, TP53 mutations, and KRAS mutations were not associated with sex. Stratifying patients by age groups showed that FGFR2 rearrangements were specifically enriched in younger ages (<45 years). Although the most common FGFR2 fusion partners were shared across both sexes, a subset of fusion partners was recurrent and uniquely associated with female or male patients.

CONCLUSION

FGFR2 rearrangements but not other driver alterations in cholangiocarcinoma are concentrated in young female patients, where the prevalence reached nearly 20% across two large patient cohorts. These results suggest that the molecular basis of FGFR2 rearrangements may be distinct between sexes. These results indicate the importance of genetic testing in cholangiocarcinoma, particularly for younger patients, and suggest that patient recruitment strategies in trials for FGFR2-targeting therapies should seek to reduce barriers to enhance the enrollment of young female patients.
Investigating the Salience of Clinical Meaningfulness and Clinically Meaningful Outcomes in Metastatic Breast Cancer Care Delivery
Authors: Graff Stephanie L. , Freeman Emily C. , Roach Meaghan , Wilson Rozanne , Cagle Claire , Lunsford Sarah , Maravic Melissa Culhane , Fairley Ricki , Gullatte Mary , Stemland Jeanne , Wochal Paulina , Katz Julie , Hoffner Brianna , Scott Julie M. , May Suepattra G.
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

As metastatic breast cancer (mBC) treatment evolves, there is a need to understand how clinical meaningfulness, or a meaningful change in a patient's daily life, and clinically meaningful outcomes inform patient-centered care. Partnering with key stakeholders ensures patient-centered research incorporates the knowledge and expertise of advisors with lived experience. We describe a multistakeholder engagement approach to examine how people living with mBC (PLWmBC), caregivers, and health care providers interpret clinical meaningfulness and clinically meaningful outcomes and their influence on mBC treatment decision making and care.

METHODS

Qualitative focus groups with PLWmBC, caregivers, and health care providers were conducted and analyzed along three overarching themes: interpretations of clinical meaningfulness and clinically meaningful outcomes; treatment recommendations, preferences, and decisions; and implications for clinical practice. Patient-led and professional organizations served as research partners in study design, implementation, and interpretation of findings.

RESULTS

Partnerships were established with four patient-led and three professional organizations representing diverse constituencies throughout the United States. Twenty-two focus groups were conducted with 50 PLWmBC, 24 caregivers, and 41 health care providers (oncologists, n = 11; advanced practice providers, n = 13; oncology nurses, n = 17) between March and June 2023. PLWmBC and caregivers were unfamiliar with the concepts of clinical meaningfulness and clinically meaningful outcomes. Although health care providers were familiar, they did not use the terms when discussing treatment with PLWmBC. Across groups, participants emphasized the importance of meaningful outcomes beyond overall survival, including quality of life and improvement in symptoms and functioning. Participants noted that outcomes considered meaningful are individualized and dynamic.

CONCLUSION

This study offers insight into how partnering with patient advocacy and professional organizations can enhance research quality and aid translation of findings to clinical practice, thereby supporting patient-centered care.
Phase II Study of Samotolisib in Children and Young Adults With Tumors Harboring Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase/Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Pathway Alterations: Pediatric MATCH APEC1621D
Authors: Laetsch Theodore W. , Ludwig Kathleen , Williams P. Mickey , Roy-Chowdhuri Sinchita , Patton David R. , Coffey Brent , Reid Joel M. , Piao Jin , Saguilig Lauren , Alonzo Todd A. , Berg Stacey L. , Mhlanga Joyce , Fox Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda J. , Hawkins Douglas S. , Mooney Margaret M. , Takebe Naoko , Tricoli James V. , Janeway Katherine A. , Seibel Nita L. , Parsons Donald Williams
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

Patients age 1-21 years with relapsed or refractory solid and CNS tumors were assigned to phase II studies of molecularly targeted therapies on the National Cancer Institute-Children's Oncology Group (NCI-COG) Pediatric Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (MATCH) trial. Patients whose tumors harbored predefined genetic alterations in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and lacked mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activating alterations were treated with the PI3K/mTOR inhibitor samotolisib.

METHODS

Patients received samotolisib twice daily in 28-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. A rolling 6 limited dose escalation was performed as, to our knowledge, this was the first pediatric study of samotolisib. The primary end point was the objective response rate; secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS) and the recommended phase II dose and toxicity of samotolisib in children.

RESULTS

A total of 3.4% (41/1,206) of centrally tested patients were matched to this arm. Seventeen patients were treated. Among treated patients, the most common diagnoses included osteosarcoma (n = 6) and high-grade glioma (n = 5) harboring alterations in phosphatase and tensin homolog (n = 6), PIK3CA (n = 5), and tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (n = 3). No objective responses or prolonged stable disease were observed. Three-month PFS was 12% (95% CI, 2 to 31). Two patients experienced dose-limiting toxicities (mucositis and pneumonitis). Dose level 2 (115 mg/m2/dose twice daily) was determined to be the recommended phase II dose of samotolisib in children.

CONCLUSION

This nationwide study was successful at identifying patients and evaluating the efficacy of molecularly targeted therapy for rare molecular subgroups of patients in a histology-agnostic fashion. Unfortunately, there was no activity of samotolisib against tumors with PI3K/mTOR pathway alterations. Prospective trials such as the NCI-COG Pediatric MATCH are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of molecularly targeted therapies given their increasing use in clinical practice.
Organizational Selection of Innovation
Authors: Böttcher Lucas , Klingebiel Ronald
Published: September 2024

Budgetary constraints force organizations to pursue only a subset of possible innovation projects. Identifying which subset is most promising is an error-prone exercise, and involving multiple decision makers may be prudent. This raises the question of how to most effectively aggregate their collective nous. Our model of organizational portfolio selection provides some first answers. We show that portfolio performance can vary widely. Delegating evaluation makes sense when organizations employ the relevant experts and can assign projects to them. In most other settings, aggregating the impressions of multiple agents leads to better performance than delegation. In particular, letting agents rank projects often outperforms alternative aggregation rules—including averaging agents’ project scores and counting their approval votes—especially when organizations have tight budgets and can select only a few project alternatives out of many.

Funding: L. Böttcher acknowledges financial support from hessian.AI and the Army Research Office [Grant W911NF-23-1-0129].

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2023.17357 .
Dacryoadenitis as a rare initial presentation in a patient with suspected CREST syndrome
Authors: Singh Arkaja , Rao Sameer , Shah Riya , Maheshwari Mashal , Dhillon Aarish , Gupta Silka
Published: September 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare, chronic disease with diverse clinical presentations, and only a few cases with ocular manifestations have been reported in the literature. In this case report, we describe the case of a 51-year-old South Asian woman who initially complained of painless swelling in her left upper eyelid. An ultrasound examination of the left eye revealed an enlarged lacrimal gland with increased vascularity. The presence of dacryoadenitis, which was unresponsive to initial conservative management with oral antibiotics and warm compresses, along with positive antinuclear antibodies, prompted further investigation. Dacryoadenitis or orbital inflammation is a common presentation in systemic conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, or granulomatosis with polyangiitis. However, it can also be a rare initial symptom in a patient with CREST syndrome. To our knowledge, this is only the second case in the literature of dacryoadenitis in the context of calcinosis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia (CREST) syndrome. This case highlights the significance of serological markers and peripheral clinical presentations in individuals with chronic orbital inflammation, emphasizing the importance of considering further systemic associations.
A study of the music history of the Pathé Company in the Shun Pao
Authors: Ma Jincheng , Zheng Lin
Published: September 2024

Gramophones and records were first introduced into China at the end of the 19th Century and then developed and prospered here. After years of development and exploration, since E.Labansat founded Pathé Company in 1908, Pathé became the most influential record company. It maintained its leadership in record content and quality in this industry. The Company also played an important role in developing the record industry and transmitting the musical culture during the period of the Republic of China (1912–1949). It also has a close relationship with the development of Chinese modern music. As one of the most profound newspapers, Shun Pao is the earliest published newspaper in Shanghai and has the longest history. Its news materials published about records were written extremely thoroughly and abundantly. A study of the Pathé Company is regarded as invaluable. This study involves compiling original historical materials from the Shun Pao using a documentary analysis approach, systematically selecting and analyzing relevant materials according to various periods and categories. By analyzing the history of its development, business strategy, and cultural influence, the study explores the significance of Pathé to China›s record industry and witnesses its profound impact on the introduction of Western music culture, the fusion of Chinese and Western music culture, and the development of modern music in China.
Corrigendum to “Estimating WEPP Cropland Erodibility Values from Soil Properties”
Authors: Elliot William J. , Flanagan Dennis C.
Published: September 2024

Highlights

Interrill erodibility Ki values presented in Elliot and Flanagan (2023) were incorrect, and correct values are given.

Interrill erodibility can be estimated from a soil’s sand, very fine sand, and clay contents.

Abstract. In Elliot and Flanagan (2023), the interrill and rill soil erodibility of 36 cropland soils was reported, along with correlations among soil erodibility and other soil properties, and equations to estimate erodibility from readily measured soil properties. Early versions of the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) model had linked interrill detachment rate to the square of the rainfall intensity and an interrill soil erodibility constant Ki1. By the time the WEPP model was released for general use in 1995, the developers had changed the interrill detachment rate to be a function of the product of rainfall intensity and runoff and a different interrill erodibility constant, Ki2. The interrill erodibilities (Ki2) with this altered relationship were not the same as Ki1 values developed to support earlier releases of the WEPP model. The authors, when reviewing some of the past literature supporting Elliot and Flanagan (2023), had mistakenly reported Ki2 values when the numbers reported were in fact Ki1 values. A closer examination of the entire data set and the identification of a published source for the correct Ki2 values confirmed this mistake. This corrigendum reports the corrected Ki2 values, the correlation of those revised values with other soil properties, and confirmation of a 1995 regression equation relating Ki2 to three readily measured soil properties: sand content, very fine sand content, and clay content. The coefficient of determination for the 1995 regression equation was 0.80. We recommend that all references to Ki2 in Elliot and Flanagan (2023) be changed to Ki1 except the discussion about the findings of Mirzaee and Ghorbani-Dashtaki (2021), discussion about Ki2 in Alberts et al. (1995), and equations 2 and A16. A marked up copy of Elliot and Flanagan (2023) showing these changes can be downloaded from https://www.fs.usda.gov/rm/pubs_journals/2023/rmrs_2023_elliot_w001_corr.pdf. Keywords: Cropland Soils, Interrill Erodibility, Water Erosion Prediction Project.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Experiences in Chicago Neighborhoods With Increased Adverse Maternal Outcomes: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Perry Madeline F. , Thompson April , Johnson Talibah , Range Kirbi , Steinberg Jecca R. , Masinter Lisa , Gemkow Jena Wallander , Baker Andie , Lewis-Thames Marquita W.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Background: Black birthing people are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White birthing people. Objective: We aimed to better understand the pregnancy and postpartum experiences with health care, support, and maternal morbidity and mortality (MMM) of Black pregnant and parenting people living in neighborhoods with increased rates of MMM in Chicago, Illinois. Methods: This was a rapid qualitative analysis in Chicago, Illinois based on principles of community-based participa-tory research. Community partners recruited Black pregnant and parenting individuals living in neighborhoods with higher rates of MMM. Four focus groups from February 2021 to October 2021 were led by community health workers and covered pregnancy and postpartum experiences. Transcripts were deductively and inductively coded by paired-analyst teams and thematically analyzed. Results: This study included 31 participants from eight neighborhoods. Key themes related to pregnancy and the postpartum period included the: (1) a need for social and mental health support during and after pregnancy, (2) a preference for multiple sources of health information, (3) a need for strengthened connection with medical providers and health care systems, (4) a lack of clarity regarding MMM and the postpartum period, and (5) a difference in language between patients and health care providers. Conclusions: Further research and interventions are needed to evaluate how to best support pregnant and postpartum people, to implement patient-centered language when communicating about pregnancy and postpartum complications, and to demonstrate investment by health care workers in Black birthing people. Crucial to further research and interventions is communication with and input from communities most affected by MMM.
Co-designing the Family Wellbeing Program to Address Mental Health Disparities in a Latino Community: Lessons Learned
Authors: Mercado Micaela , Birr Rebecca , Safyer Paige
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Background: Latino caregivers caring for children under 5 years old who are under resourced, and underserved may be most vulnerable for experiencing mental health problems. Furthermore, Latino families with young children—during the COVID-19 pandemic—were at particular risk for multiple and concurrent stressors and acute adversities. Objectives: The Family Wellbeing Program (FWP) was designed to strengthen Latino caregivers’ mental health and mental well-being, and facilitate their access to mental health supports and service providers. Methods: Using the principles of community-based participatory research, a university research team and staff from a federally qualified health care center co-developed and implemented the FWP. Pre- and post-implementation focus groups with six staff were conducted and data analysis was guided by the RE-AIM framework. Results: Staff identified implementation challenges related to the pandemic and socioenvironmental factors affecting the reach and participation of Latino families. Staff perceived the program improved caregivers’ help-seeking behaviors, yet suggestions for improving the FWP for Latino caregivers were noted. Staff also discussed implementation strategies to sustain future programming. Conclusions: Implementation strategies along the RE-AIM dimensions were identified to improve the participation of Latino caregivers in future adaptations of the FWP. The implications of this work could show promise for sustaining programs designed to address disparities in mental health among Latino caregivers.
Applying Best Practices from CAPs to a Community–Academic–Corrections Partnership: Academic Partner Perspectives
Authors: Gaber Jessica , Elston Dawn , Sanya Njideka , McLeod Katherine E. , Kouyoumdjian Fiona G.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Background: While correctional systems often function separately from academic and community-based organizations, there is opportunity for mutually beneficial collaborative partnerships to strengthen services and relationships. Community–academic partnerships (CAPs) are a well-established model in implementation science and in scientific literature. Applying best practices for CAPs to a partnership that includes community, academic, and correctional partners could contribute to a stronger partnership with more capacity to improve population health of people who experience incarceration. Objectives: To describe our work to identify CAP best practices, and to discuss considerations and approaches for applying these best practices in an emerging community– academic–corrections partnership. Methods: From the scientific literature, we identified best practices for CAPs across nine domains: bringing the community into the project; building new relationships while addressing the past; establishing mutually beneficial vision, goals, and purpose; roles and expectations of partners; communication; administration; leadership; project implementation and evaluation; and building community capacity and awareness. In this paper we describe considerations from the perspective of the academic partner regarding these nine best practice domains in the development of a community–academic–corrections partnership. Conclusions: While established CAP best practices have relevance, there are specific considerations for partnerships with correctional authorities that require attention. Informed by best practices, planning and preparation for partnership can help mitigate challenges, support effectiveness, and strengthen relationships.
Statistical properties of circular and rectangular multi-sinc Schell-model beams propagating in uniaxial crystals
Authors: Tian Liancheng , Zhou Jianyang
Published: September 2024

With the extended Huygens–Fresnel principle, we derive the expressions for the spectral intensity, coherence, and effective beam width of circular and rectangular multi-sinc Schell-model (MSSM) beams propagating through uniaxial crystals. Numerical simulations are employed to extensively explore how beam and crystal parameters modulate the optical field. The results reveal that the propagating field exhibits multiple ring-shaped and array-like intensity distributions, with adjustable features such as the number of concentric rings, central brightness, array dimensions, and the morphology and diversity of sub-beams. Additionally, the spectral coherence displays an oscillatory distribution that evolves into a Gaussian distribution as the transmission distance increases. The anisotropy of uniaxial crystals not only influences the morphology of intensity distribution but also affects the evolution rate of coherence and the expansion rate of effective beam width. Our work contributes to optimizing beam propagation through uniaxial crystals, potentially benefiting precision optical systems in laser technology.
Tunable Fano-type resonance with quadrature squeezing in a double-cavity-waveguide structure of photonic crystals
Authors: Liu Shaopeng , Wang Junfeng , Song Zhenzhen , Li Ying , Zhou Shuang
Published: September 2024

We propose an optical approach to realizing Fano-type spectra of quadrature squeezing in a double-cavity-waveguide structure based on photonic crystals (PhCs). In this scheme, a partially transmitting element (PTE) in the waveguide creates the transmission and reflection light, which interferes with the outflow from the intracavity field and subsequently gives rise to Fano-type interference. Meanwhile, a degenerate parametric amplifier (DPA) embedded into the cavity is expected to yield quantum squeezed states in the interference process. After verifying the existence of the Fano resonance, we report that increasing the nonlinear gain of the DPA not only amplifies the transmitted intensity of the output field, but also improves its quadrature squeezing degree. More importantly, we illustrate that, when maintaining the high performance of quadrature squeezing, the linewidths and frequencies of the asymmetrical spectra can be modulated by adjusting the double-cavity coupling strength. This combination of Fano-type spectra and quadrature squeezing is beneficial for optimizing optical communications and signal processing with a low noise level.
Vanadium-dioxide-assisted multifunctional switchable terahertz metamaterial devices
Authors: Wang Kai , Yan Rui , Li Jing
Published: September 2024

A multifunctional, switchable terahertz (THz) metamaterial (MM) device with wideband
absorption and polarization conversion capabilities has been
developed, based on the insulator-metal phase transition of vanadium
dioxide (VO2). In its metallic state, the device
operates as a wideband absorber within the range of
2.56–6.74 THz, achieving a bandwidth of 4.18 THz and an
absorption rate of ≥90%. The wideband absorption is
insensitive to both oblique incident angles and polarization. When VO2 is in its insulating state, the
device switches to a polarization converter, facilitating
linear-to-cross polarization (LTX) conversion between 1.04 and
4 THz, and linear-to-circular polarization (LTC) conversion
between 1 and 1.04 THz, with a conversion efficiency exceeding
90%. Additionally, the effects of incident angle and polarization
angle on the device’s performance were analyzed. This THz device
offers advantages of wide angle, wide bandwidth, and high efficiency,
making it a valuable reference for research into new multifunctional
THz devices. It has great potential applications in short-range
wireless THz communication, ultrafast optical switches,
high-temperature resistant switches, transient spectroscopy, and
optical polarization control devices. In specific application
scenarios, particularly in fields requiring efficient detection,
transmission, and analysis—such as security and non-destructive
testing, secure communication systems, imaging and sensing,
multidimensional spectral analysis, pollutant detection, smart stealth
coatings, dynamic optical control devices, and integrated optical
systems—these devices offer multifunctional capabilities. They enhance
system performance and flexibility, meeting diverse application
needs.
Wavefront shaping and imaging through a multimode hollow-core fiber
Authors: Lyu Zhouping , Amitonova Lyubov V.
Published: September 2024

Multimode fibers recently emerged as compact minimally-invasive probes for high-resolution deep-tissue imaging. However, the commonly used silica fibers have a relatively low numerical aperture (NA) limiting the spatial resolution of a probe. On top of that, light propagation within the solid core generates auto-fluorescence and Raman background, which interferes with imaging. Here we propose to use a hollow-core fiber to solve these problems. We experimentally demonstrate spatial wavefront shaping at the multimode hollow-core fiber output with tunable high-NA. We demonstrate raster-scan and speckle-based compressive imaging through a multimode hollow-core fiber.
Influence of NH3 flow rate on the photoelectric properties of high Al content p-AlGaN
Authors: Lin Gao Mao , Jing Yang , Yang Xu , Jie Huang Yu , Wei Jia , Liang Dong Hai , Dong Hao Xiao , She Xu Bing , Gang Zhao De
Published: September 2024

High Al content (60%) p-AlGaN with different NH3 flow rates was grown using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), and changes in its photoelectric properties were studied using the Hall effect tester (Hall) and cathodoluminescence (CL) spectrometer. The results show that the film resistivity increases from 3.8 Ω·cm to 46.5 Ω·cm with increasing NH3 flow rate. The impurity peak intensity of p-AlGaN grown under high NH3 flow conditions is particularly high, indicating numerous point defects. The results of high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) show a large number of Ga interstitial atoms (Gai) at the interface. As Gai acts as a donor, this may be the main reason for the increase in resistivity. And under high NH3 flow conditions, a lattice distortion and a high density of dislocation occur between p-AlGaN and p-GaN, which can lead to enhanced carrier scattering and decreased mobility. Additional validation via LED growth experiments indicates that the luminescence intensity of samples with low ammonia concentration increased by more than 13000 times.
Supercontinuum saturation of femtosecond laser filament in pressurized gases
Authors: Geints Yuri , Bulygin Andrey , Kompanets Viktor , Chekalin Sergey
Published: September 2024

Filamentation of high-power femtosecond optical pulses in high-pressure gases has gained increasing academic and practical interest from the viewpoint of studying large-scale spectral and temporal transformations occurring with pulsed laser radiation and obtaining super-broadened spectra and extremely short (attosecond) wave packets. Experimentally and theoretically, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, we show that as a result of femtosecond titanium-sapphire laser pulse filamentation in an optical cell filled with pressurized up to 50 bar nitrogen or argon, the pulse spectrum can reach maximally about eightfold broadening. This limiting pulse spectral width is reached at a gas pressure of about 20 bar and with further pressure increase exhibits saturation and even a slight decrease relative to the limiting value. As a possible reason for this evidence, we propose the enhancement of pulse energy depletion in the self-created plasma at high gas pressure.