bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The incidence and clinical significance of monoclonal and oligoclonal protein bands in multiple myeloma patients after BCMA–CAR‐T cell therapy: A retrospective study based on LEGEND‐2
Authors: Liu Rui , Gao Gongzhizi , Chen Hongli , Dong Ruijun , Zhang Wanggang , Zhao Wanhong , Liu Jie , Wang Jianli , Lei Bo , Wang Baiyan , Liu Jiali , Xu Xuezhu , Lin Zujie , Yang Ruoyu , Wang Yiwen , He Aili , Wang Fangxia , Bai Ju
Published: November 2024

The emergence of abnormal protein bands (APBs), also known as oligoclonal protein bands, has been documented in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, the incidence rate and clinical significance of APBs remain contentious. Few studies have explored the occurrence and prognostic implications of APBs in patients with MM treated with B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA)–specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T therapy. In this retrospective study, we examined the frequency, isotypes, and duration of APBs, as well as their correlation with MM disease characteristics, treatment response, clinical outcomes, and immune signature in patients with relapsed/refractory MM who had received LCAR‐B38M therapy at the Xi'an site of the phase 1 LEGEND‐2 trial. Among 47 patients assessed, 23 (48.9%) developed APBs following CAR‐T therapy, with IgG being the most common isotype. The median onset and duration of APBs post‐CAR‐T infusion were 3.6 and 5.8 months, respectively. Patients with APBs demonstrated significantly improved response to LCAR‐B38M therapy, along with longer overall and progression‐free survival. Furthermore, those with APBs exhibited enhanced recovery rates of immunoglobulins and higher absolute counts of white blood cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes post‐CAR‐T treatment compared to those without APBs. However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in the percentages of various T‐cell subsets and natural killer cells. Overall, the presence of APBs in patients with MM following CAR‐T treatment was associated with deeper remission and a more favorable prognosis, suggesting a robust humoral response and subsequent immune reconstitution.
Government Subsidies and Operational Efficiency: Evidence From the United States
Authors: Sun Hua , Xu Hongkang
Published: November 2024

In the United States, prior research links government subsidies to corporate misconduct and income smoothing, fueling debates over the elimination of these subsidies. Contrasting these findings, our study investigates the association between government subsidies and operational efficiency in US firms from 2004 to 2022, using data from the Subsidy Tracker database. We find a significant positive association between government subsidies and operational efficiency, suggesting that these subsidies enhance firms’ resource management and competitive positioning. Further analysis indicates that subsidies exert a more pronounced positive effect on firms with substantial R&D investments. Additionally, we find that government subsidies are positively related to corporate innovation activities and new hiring, highlighting the diverse benefits of subsidies in stimulating innovation and economic growth. This study provides essential insights into the potential of government subsidies as a strategic tool for enhancing operational efficiency, innovation, and employment within the corporate landscape.
The Information Content of Earnings: The Effects of a Change in Accounting Approach
Authors: Cabán David
Published: November 2024

This study leverages the adoption of ASC 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” to examine the effects of transitioning from a rules‐based to a principles‐based approach on the information content of earnings along with two of its most important attributes: predictive value and asymmetry. By introducing a common principles‐based framework, ASC 606 resolves inconsistencies found in earlier rules‐based standards and fosters uniformity in financial reporting. However, this change might also diminish the uniqueness of financial information, a critical factor in the decision‐making process. The findings reveal a significant increase in the overall market's information content of earnings post‐ASC 606 implementation. Industries with complex revenue recognition processes and long‐term contracts, such as information technology, real estate, and communications, experienced the most significant improvements. These industries benefited from the increased flexibility and professional judgment allowed under ASC 606, resulting in more accurate future earnings forecasts. However, the study also finds that ASC 606 has increased information asymmetry, particularly in industries with complex transactions. This suggests that while the principles‐based approach enhances the informativeness and predictive value of earnings, it also introduces challenges in interpreting and applying the new standards, leading to increased information asymmetry. These findings have important implications for standard setters, regulators, and practitioners in financial reporting.
Composition of carbohydrate, protein and lipid derived from microalgae using thermally pretreated solid waste
Authors: Rawindran Hemamalini , Khoo Kuan Shiong , Satpati Gour Gopal , Maity Sudatta , Chandran Krittika , Lim Jun Wei , Tong Woei‐Yenn , Setiabudi Herma Dina , Yunus Normawati M
Published: November 2024

Microalgae are widely recognized for their capacity to generate value‐added products in a variety of sectors, including the pharmaceutical and food industries, bioenergy industries and wastewater industries. The quality of a microalga is significantly influenced by its proliferation. Along with growth, the biochemical profile may also vary based on the nutrient that is supplemented. The majority of the supplemented nutrients utilized are not in a functional state, as they are typically extracted in liquid form or pretreated prior to use. Parallel to numerous commonly applied pretreatment processes, including chemical, mechanical and biological, thermal pretreatment appears to receive less attention. Hence it is crucial to comprehend the potential for thermal pretreatment as well as its mechanism in militating the solid waste to release additional nutrients in order to enhance the biochemical profile of microalgae. The current review takes a closer look at the impact of various thermal pretreatments on solid waste on influencing microalgal performance in terms of their overall biochemical profiles such as carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. This approach is likely to enhance the circular economy by utilizing waste products and effectively closing the loop on waste. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Gastric Cancer at a Nigerian Tertiary Referral Center: Experiences With Establishing an Institutional Cancer Registry
Authors: Yibrehu Betel , Mohammed Tajudeen Olakunle , Murthy Shilpa , Aderibigbe Adeniyi Sheriff , Daramola Oluwafemi Bamidele , Arije Olujide , Owoade Isreal , Wuraola Funmilola Olanike , Olasehinde Olalekan , Betiku Omolade , Folorunso Sharif Adeniyi , Omoyiola Oludolapo , Aderounmu Adewale , Adisa Adewale Oluseye , Kingham Peter Thomas , Alatise Olusegun Isaac
Published: November 2024

Background

In Nigeria, gastric cancer is the 10th most common and 9th most deadly malignancy. The limited availability of robust data makes further characterizing it challenging. The objective of this study was to assess the presentation, and management of gastric cancer in Nigeria using an institutional cancer registry.

Methods

We reviewed a prospective database of patients diagnosed with any gastric cancer at a single tertiary referral center over 15 years (2007–2022). Patients with suspected gastric cancer were surveyed for sociodemographics and then added to the institutional gastric cancer registry. Thereafter, periodic chart review and phone call was used to obtain investigation results, and survival data, respectively. Only patients with complete histopathology were included in analysis.

Results

138 patients met inclusion criteria (mean age 55.3 years, 68.8% male). Patients typically presented with weight loss (119, 86.2%) and anorexia (92, 66.7%). Blood work (132, 95.7%) and ultrasound (80, 57.9%) were the most common investigations. Most fully staged patients presented with metastatic disease (39, 90.2%). Patients underwent at least one treatment modality (109, 79.0%), and most 54 (49.5%) underwent both chemotherapy and surgery. Patients undergoing surgery usually had resection of their tumor (58, 67.4%). The median time of follow‐up was 45.6 months, and 51.4% (71) of patients were dead at that time point.

Conclusion

Our gastric cancer database identified that most patients present with advanced disease and are undergoing at least one treatment modality. The next steps include initiatives to strengthen the quality of registry data, identify high‐risk patients, and provide timely treatment.
Prevalence of Molecular Diagnoses for Usher Syndrome and the Need for Coordinated Care
Authors: Colbert Brett M. , Smeal Molly , Cromar Zachary J. , Rosa Potyra , Blanton Susan H. , Lam Byron L. , Liu Xue Z.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Usher syndrome (USH) is a rare, autosomal‐recessive genetic disorder and a leading cause of early onset deaf‐blindness. A clinical diagnosis is made by the presence of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Subtype (USH1, USH2, USH3) is determined by severity and age of onset. Molecular testing is able to further distinguish USH subtypes by causative gene. As gene therapy strategies continue to be explored for USH, it is important to know the underlying genetic cause and to coordinate care among an interdisciplinary team.

Methods

We reviewed charts of 198 individuals presenting to the RP clinic at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (BPEI) for suspected USH. Demographic information, USH clinical diagnosis, molecular testing, molecular diagnosis, and audiological data were collected.

Results

Of the 198 patients reviewed, 190 (96%) met clinical criteria for USH and received a clinical diagnosis. There were 67 (35%) that had a genetic test with a pathogenic molecular diagnosis. The average ages at molecular diagnosis were USH1B, 20 years old; USH2A, 37 years old; USH2C, 50 years old. Of the 67 with a molecular diagnosis, 23 (34%) established ophthalmic care and 8 of these (11%) established audiological care.

Discussion/Conclusion

Molecular testing and diagnosis should be part of the routine care of USH individuals to facilitate earlier interventions and coordinated care between ophthalmology and audiology.

Level of evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2024
Effects of enrichment of live prey with soy lecithin on growth, stress resistance, digestive enzymes activity, and antioxidant capacity in yellowfin seabream (Acanthopagrus latus) larvae
Authors: Morshedi Vahid , Torfi Mozanzadeh Mansour , Noori Farzaneh , Agh Naser , Jafari Fatemeh , Hamedi Shirin , Azodi Maryam , Afshar Moghadam Reza , Eryalçın Kamil Mert
Published: November 2024

Phospholipid (PL) is an essential nutrient that has vital effects on growth, stress resistance, and early development in marine fish larvae. In this regard, a 30‐day feeding experiment was conducted in order to examine the effects of live prey enrichment with graded levels of soy lecithin (SL) on some physiological responses of Acanthopagrus latus larvae. Four experimental emulsion levels of SL were used to enrich rotifer and Artemia including very low (2%, N‐Nil), low (4%, L), medium (8%, M), and high (12%, H). Newly hatched larvae were distributed into 12,250‐L cylindrical tanks with an initial density of 15,000 larvae in each tank that was supplied with natural seawater (23 ± 1°C; 40.0 ± 1.0 g L−1). Larvae fed live prey enriched with 4% SL significantly had higher wet weight gain than other treatments. Air exposure and osmotic activity tests were also performed to detect larval resistance to stress. Larvae fed live prey enriched with 8% and 12% SL had higher survival compared to the other two groups. The accumulation of arachidonic (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was increased in the whole body of larvae fed high SL‐supplemented live prey. Alkaline phosphatase and aminopeptidase N activities in the guts brush border membrane of larvae in M and H groups were higher than other treatments. The trypsin and chymotrypsin activities in the N group were lower than in other groups. The highest and lowest amylase activities were in the H and N groups, respectively. The activity of catalase in the whole body of the M group was higher than the N group and the glutathione reductase activity was significantly increased in the M and L groups compared to the N and H groups. Total antioxidant capacity in the whole body of larvae in the N group was lower than in the other treatments. In summary, moderate levels of SL (4%–8%) are suggested for the enrichment of live prey in A. latus.
Preferences regarding Disclosure of Risk for Parkinson's Disease in a Population‐based Study
Authors: Mahlknecht Philipp , Leiter Simon , Horlings Corinne , Schwarzová Katarína , Egner Iris , Stockner Heike , Marini Kathrin , Theyer Christoph , Zamarian Laura , Djamshidian Atbin , Seppi Klaus , Farfan Fernanda , Garrido Alicia , Ghosh Soumyabrata , Krüger Rejko , McIntyre Deborah , Mollenhauer Brit , Noyce Alastair , Pauly Claire , Pilco‐Janeta Daniel F. , Rege Kavita , Satagopam Venkata P. , Schade Sebastian , Simonet Cristina , Trenkwalder Claudia , Poewe Werner ,   the HeBA Consortium
Published: November 2024

Background

Preferences for risk disclosure in population‐based studies assessing Parkinson's disease (PD) risk have not been assessed so far.

Objectives

To examine preferences for risk disclosure in a subset of the European Healthy Brain Aging (HeBA) multicenter study.

Methods

After a remote PD risk assessment, a structured pilot‐questionnaire on risk disclosure was first presented to participants (≥50 years, without neurodegenerative diseases) during in‐person visits at the Innsbruck study site.

Results

From the included 81 participants (63% females, median age 65 years), 79% expressed an unconditional desire to be informed about their PD risk. Confronted with a hypothetical scenario of a positive, specific PD test, most would try to live a healthier lifestyle. Regarding future placebo‐controlled disease‐modification trials, 66% stated they would probably or definitely participate.

Conclusions

This pilot‐study shows an open‐minded view of participants towards disclosure of risk for future PD and a proactive attitude regarding dealing with one's risk.
Magnetic properties and I‐V characteristics of DC magnetron sputtered [Co (0.2 nm)/Ni (0.4 nm)]10 thin films
Authors: Sarkar Subrata , Hussain Rafikul , Rajbanshi Dhananjoy , Srivastava Sandeep Kumar
Published: November 2024

A set of [Co(0.2 nm)/Ni(0.4 nm)]10 multilayers (MLs) thin films were fabricated on silicon and glass substrate under various distinct conditions (i) as‐prepared films without an under‐layer, (ii) films with a copper [Cu(2 nm)] underlayer (UL), (iii) films with an in situ annealed Ta/Cu UL during sputtering, and (iv) films with post‐annealing treatment, by using a DC magnetron sputtering machine. The [Co/Ni] MLs thin films prepared under various conditions exhibit in‐plane magnetic anisotropic behavior except as‐prepared films which show isotropic behavior. The maximum saturation magnetization was observed in the as‐prepared films prepared on both silicon and glass substrate. The Ta/Cu UL in situ annealing followed by post‐annealing films exhibit highest coercivity, moderate saturation magnetization but lowest squareness in contrast to the films deposited under other conditions. The I‐V curves of the films show diode like behavior with breakdown voltage of 42, 58, 14, and 21 V for [Co/Ni] MLs under four different conditions.
Sex differences in ectopic lipid deposits and cardiac function across a wide range of glycemic control: a secondary analysis
Authors: Harreiter Jürgen , Just Ivica , Weber Michael , Klepochová Radka , Bastian Magdalena , Winhofer Yvonne , Wolf Peter , Scherer Thomas , Leutner Michael , Kosi‐Trebotic Lana , Deischinger Carola , Chmelík Marek , Krebs Michael R. , Trattnig Siegfried , Krššák Martin , Kautzky‐Willer Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify sex differences in ntrahepatocellular (HCL) and intramyocardial lipids (MYCL) and cardiac function in participants with different grades of glucometabolic impairment and different BMI strata.

Methods

Data from 503 individuals from 17 clinical experimental studies were analyzed. HCL and MYCL were assessed with 3T and 7T scanners by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Cardiac function was measured with a 3T scanner using electrocardiogram‐gated TrueFISP sequences. Participants were classified as having normoglycemia, prediabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Three‐way ANCOVA with post hoc simple effects analyses was used for statistical assessment.

Results

Consistent increases of HCL with BMI and deterioration of glucose metabolism, especially in female individuals, were detected. MYCL increased with BMI and glucose impairment in female individuals, but not in male individuals. Sex differences were found in cardiac function loss, with significant effects found among male individuals with worsening glucose metabolism. Myocardial mass and volume of the ventricle were higher in male individuals in all groups. This sex difference narrowed with increasing BMI and with progressing dysglycemia.

Conclusions

Sex differences in HCL and MYCL may be associated with a higher cardiovascular disease risk observed in female individuals progressing to diabetes. Further studies are needed to elucidate possible sex differences with advancing glucometabolic impairment and obesity and their potential impact on cardiovascular outcomes.

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Critique, Vision and Cosmology: Millenarian Ideas in Melanesia
Authors: Hirsch Eric
Published: November 2024

An essential connection between critique and the millenarian has been proposed with particular reference to the study of Melanesian cargo cults. It is argued here that all critique is not necessarily millenarian. Rather, what is crucial for critique to have a millenarian form is for local cosmological ideas and practices to become transformed into the source of a new kind of future; a future that appears delimited by outside power relations (colonial, mission, capitalist) that now define what is possible. Often this involves altering local cosmological ideas of the outside (e.g. the dead) as the new source of future fecundity. The article considers two cases, among Fuyuge and Manus Islands peoples, where forms of critique and the millenarian have radically different outcomes.
Effect of polyacrylic acid‐polypropylene‐polyacrylic acid triblock copolymers with different acid content on mechanical properties of carbon fiber/polypropylene composites
Authors: Yokoi Daichi , Sasaki Daisuke , Takahashi Tatsuhiro
Published: November 2024

The use of polyacrylic acid‐polypropylene‐polyacrylic acid triblock copolymers (PAA‐iPP‐PAA, abbreviated as iPP‐PAA) with different acrylic acid contents (9, 19.5, 29 wt%) as compatibilizers for carbon fiber (CF)/polypropylene (PP) composites and their effect on the tensile properties of the composites were investigated. The addition of iPP‐PAA improved the tensile properties of the CF/PP composites. This enhancement in mechanical properties was considered to be due to the hydrogen bonding network between iPP‐PAAs, which improved the mechanical properties of the matrix resin itself, and to hydrogen bonding between carbon fiber surface and iPP‐PAAs, which improved the interfacial adhesion. A higher acrylic acid content of iPP‐PAA resulted in better interfacial properties; however, excessive acrylic acid content adversely affected the crystallinity and tensile properties of the composite, which suggests that there is an optimum acrylic acid content for the iPP‐PAA. The results indicated that iPP‐PAA is an effective compatibilizer in CF/PP composites, and the iPP‐PAA with the best performance had an acrylic acid content of 19.5%.

Highlights

PAA‐PP‐PAA copolymers used as compatibilizers for CF/PP composites.

Acrylic acid content of PAA‐PP‐PAA varied as 9%, 19.5%, and 29%.

Tensile properties of CF/PP composites enhanced by iPP‐PAA addition.

Hydrogen bonding improved mechanical properties of matrix resin and CF‐resin adhesion.

Optimum acrylic acid content for CF/PP composite was 19.5%.
Second Opinion Seeking in Paediatric Oncology: Motivations and Predictors
Authors: Kerras Stephen , Hetherington Kate , Toofanian Sara , Manoharan Neevika , Ziegler David S. , Mateos Marion K.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study investigated the prevalence, methods and factors leading carers of childhood cancer patients to seek second opinions.

Methods

A prospective, questionnaire‐based study was conducted among families attending oncology clinics at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick. Participants were asked whether they had sought a second opinion for their child and if so, their motivations. Factors including cancer diagnosis, carer demographics and online health seeking behaviours were evaluated in association with second opinions. A separate online questionnaire invited paediatric oncologists worldwide to indicate the frequency of, and their approach to, second opinion requests via email.

Results

Fourteen out of 126 carers (11.1%) sought a second opinion from another oncologist to confirm diagnoses (64.3%), explore treatment options (64.3%) or receive additional information (57.1%). A brain cancer diagnosis was the most significant predictor for second opinion seeking in univariate (p = 0.009) and multivariate analyses (p = 0.015). Among carers who reported using the internet for health information seeking (n = 98), second opinions were independently associated with social media use (p = 0.014) and frequent health‐related searches (p = 0.027). Most paediatric oncologists (71/89, 79.8%) had received second opinion requests via email, with 21.3% (19/89) reporting that these occur at least weekly. Surveyed oncologists provided a second opinion for some (59.2%) or all (33.8%) requests they received, with 68.5% supporting guideline development for second opinions in paediatric oncology.

Conclusions

Second opinions are regularly sought by carers of childhood cancer patients, with many paediatric oncologists approached over email. International guidelines may be warranted to assist paediatric oncologists and families in navigating these requests.
Perceived Control as a Potential Protective Factor for Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Cancer Patients and Survivors: A Systematic Review With Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hirschmiller Judith , Schmeckenbecher Jim , Schwinn Tamara , Wiltink Jörg , Brähler Elmar , Kapusta Nestor , Zwerenz Rüdiger , Beutel Manfred E. , Ernst Mareike
Published: November 2024

Objective

Individuals affected by cancer have an elevated risk of experiencing suicidal crises. Aligning established suicide theories with social‐cognitive theories, perceived control and related constructs emerge as potential protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors in cancer patients. As perceived control is potentially modifiable, it holds great potential for prevention and intervention efforts. We aimed to comprehensively synthesize the evidence on perceived control and its link with suicidal thoughts and behaviors in cancer patients.

Methods

The search term and procedures were registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023391048). We systematically searched the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web‐of‐Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library, adding a grey literature search. In addition to the narrative review, pooled effect sizes, moderation and subgroup analysis were calculated.

Results

The systematic search yielded 1986 original reports of which 36 were included in the systematic review and 25 in the meta‐analysis. Demoralization, help‐/hopelessness, and self‐efficacy were the most commonly studied facets of control, showing a relatively large, pooled correlation with suicidal ideation overall (r = 0.45, [95% CI = 0.38–0.52], Q = 346.15, p < 0.01, I2 = 91.2%) and across operationalisations (demoralisation: r = 52; hopelessness: r = 45; self‐efficacy: r = 0.40). Moderation analyses revealed no effect of cancer stages; but more directly cancer‐associated variables (demoralisation, hopelessness) were more closely related to suicidal ideation (QM = 5.40, p = 0.02) than general self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the pivotal role of perceived control in shaping severe distress in cancer patients. More studies are needed examining perceived control in a narrower sense.
Modeling the future carbon sink: Land‐use and climate change may offset CO2 fertilization in the United States
Authors: Felzer Benjamin S.
Published: November 2024

Societal Impact Statement

The terrestrial carbon sink currently consumes about a third of the CO2 released to the atmosphere by fossil fuel emissions and land‐use change. In light of future carbon emissions, it is important to understand how that carbon sink will change in order to better determine how much CO2 remains in the atmosphere. This study uses a modeling approach to compare a middle‐of‐the‐road (SSP245) versus rocky road (SSP370) scenario for the conterminous United States. While both scenarios result in a carbon sink by the end of the century, it is larger in SSP245, due to less deforestation and more moderate climate.

This modeling study explores how elevated atmosphere CO2, climate warming, and land use and land cover change (LULCC) will affect the direction and magnitude of the terrestrial carbon sink during the 21st century for the conterminous United States.

Initial conditions are averaged and condensed for each plant functional type (PFT) from a historical run from 1750 to 2014 with the Terrestrial Ecosystems Model (TEM). Future experiments consider the effect of climate change, LULCC, and the CO2 fertilization effect (CFE) from 2015 to 2099 using the SSP245 and SSP370 scenarios from the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Earth System Model (NCAR CESM2) model.

The resultant effect on accumulated net carbon exchange (NCE) is 12.2 PgC for SSP245 versus 2.4 PgC for SSP370. Separating out the effects of climate, LULCC, and CFE results in a negative effect from both climate (−1.6 vs. −14.6 PgC) and LULCC (−5.6 vs. −15.4 PgC) and a positive effect from CFE (8 vs. 17.1 PgC) for SSP245 versus SSP370. The effect on water dynamics is that the SSP370 climate results in more evapotranspiration (ET) with less soil moisture and runoff, while the LULCC effect of SSP370 results in lower ET with more soil moisture and runoff. Both scenarios produce lower ET with elevated CO2, and more soil moisture and runoff.

The SSP245 scenario has more afforestation and less deforestation than the SSP370 scenario, providing more potential carbon offsets for the voluntary carbon market. This study highlights the carbon and water benefits of a more sustainable LULCC scenario.
Investigation of a fully mechanistic physiologically based pharmacokinetics model of absorption to support predictions of milk concentrations in breastfeeding women and the exposure of infants: A case study for albendazole
Authors: Cole Susan , Malamatari Maria , Butler Andrew , Arshad Mahnoor , Kerwash Essam
Published: November 2024

Due to limited non‐clinical and clinical data, European guidance recommends to discontinue breastfeeding when taking albendazole. The aim of this study was to consider the use of PBPK modeling to support the expected exposure in breastfed infants. A fully mechanistic PBPK approach was used to provide quantitative predictions of albendazole and its main active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, concentrations in plasma and breast milk of lactating women. The model predicted the exposure in adults and the large food effect, however, it does not predict all the clinical data for the exposure in children. Milk/plasma ratio predictions were also largely over‐predicted for this lipophilic compound, but not for the less lipophilic metabolite. Predictions using the observed ratio and a worse‐case exposure based on Cmax predictions, suggest doses to children through milk will be low. However, more clinical data are required before full exposure predictions can be made to breastfed infants.
Line Defects as Valley Filters in Graphene
Authors: Duman Şiyar , Schattauer Christoph , Libisch Florian
Published: November 2024

Hexagonal two‐dimensional crystals typically feature two identical but inequivalent conduction band minima—so‐called valleys—at the corners of the Brillouin zone. Exploiting this additional quantum number to process information—the goal of the field of valleytronics—requires directly manipulating the valley quantum number. Line defects emerging at grain boundaries between regions of pristine graphene could potentially act as valley filters. Quantum transport is quantitatively simulated through two such typical defects in a fully ab initio parameterized tight‐binding model to assess the validity of such a strategy. Pronounced valley polarization effects are found in transport through the line defect, that sensitively depend on the type and electronic structure of the line defect. In particular, a 5‐8‐5 defect features several strongly localized states breaking the valley symmetry, and, accordingly, leads to pronounced valley filtering effects. By contrast, a comparatively similar 5‐7 defect does not feature localized states, instead showing pronounced valley filtering at large angles of incidence. A much weaker energy dependence can still be exploited to select a specific valley. These results highlight the potential of defect engineering for building valleytronic devices, yet also the importance of realistic, quantitative models for judging the properties of tailored defects.
Strain‐Engineered Level Alignment in the MoTe2/WSe2 Heterobilayer
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad Sufyan , Cocchi Caterina
Published: November 2024

When stacked into heterostructures, layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) exhibit peculiar electronic and optical properties that may differ substantially from those of their constituents and that largely depend on the level alignment. For example, the MoTe2/WSe2 heterobilayer exhibits a type I band lineup, which can be exploited in emitting devices but limits charge separation. In this first‐principle study based on density functional theory and many‐body perturbation theory, strain is proposed as an effective means to make MoTe2/WSe2 a type II heterostructure. By exploring several configurations where biaxial strain is applied to either or both monolayers, the top of the valence band and the bottom of the conduction band are found at different points in k‐space leading to an indirect‐to‐direct bandgap transition when the lattice constant of WSe2 is expanded by 3.2% or more. In terms of optical properties, all considered systems exhibit a first dark excitation, consistently shifting in energy with the direct electronic gap, while the absorption onset does not vary significantly with strain. Our findings suggest strain as a powerful tool for fine tuning the electronic and optical properties of TMDC heterostructures while preserving their fundamental characteristics, thus opening new avenues for designing optoelectronic applications.
Plastic bronchitis in an adult
Authors: Bandara Harshana , Davis Michael D. , Fowler Stephen J.
Published: November 2024

Key message

Plastic bronchitis is rare in adult pulmonology and has a wide range of aetiology. Cast analysis is key in narrowing down the differential diagnosis of plastic bronchitis. If suspected of having lymphocytic PB, complete imaging to evaluate thoracic lymphatics is important to find out the potential causes for PB.
Factors Associated With Delay in Seeking Abortion Care Until the Second Trimester at Jimma University Medical Centre: A Prospective Cross‐Sectional Study Jimma, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abdi Taju , Assefa Fanta , Debela Dejene T.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Although the overall abortion‐related maternal mortality ratio has shown a downward trend in Ethiopia, the case‐fatality rate from abortion is still high. This study identified factors associated with delays in seeking an abortion until the second trimester at Jimma Medical Centre, Jimma, southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

From February to August 2023, we conducted a cross‐sectional study on pregnant women seeking safe abortion care. Participants were selected through systematic sampling from a sample size of 260 calculated based on a previous study's prevalence of second‐trimester abortion (19.2%), with 80% power and a 5% margin of error. Participants were selected using systematic sampling and data were collected by an interviewer‐administered questionnaire. P‐value adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with their 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to determine the association between variables.

Results

The study found a high prevalence of second‐trimester abortion at 58%. Factors significantly associated with delays in seeking abortion services until the second trimester included being from a rural area (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.2–3.8), experiencing social stigma (AOR = 4.2, 95% CI: 2.9–7.8), being unmarried (AOR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.0–3.0), having limited knowledge of menstrual periods (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.6), delaying suspicion and testing for pregnancy (AOR = 18.2, 95% CI: 2.1–8.9–37.3), postponing the decision to have an abortion by more than 1 week (AOR = 4.9, CI: 1.0–23.7), and being a primigravidae (AOR = 2.1, CI: 1.1–4.1).

Conclusions

Being from a rural area, social stigma surrounding abortion, being unmarried, limited knowledge of menstrual periods, and being a primigravidae were found to be significantly associated with delays in seeking abortion services until the second trimester. A multifaceted approach and efforts should focus on improving access to healthcare resources in rural areas, reducing social stigma surrounding abortion through education and advocacy, and providing comprehensive reproductive health education to enhance knowledge about menstrual cycles and pregnancy testing adapting to local contexts including employing community‐based approaches, using visual and interactive tools, and ensuring cultural sensitivity.
Neuroinflammation in Post COVID‐19 Sequelae: Neuroinvasion and Neuroimmune Crosstalk
Authors: Dos Reis Roberta S. , Selvam Sathish , Ayyavoo Velpandi
Published: November 2024

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in December 2019 triggered a swift global spread, leading to a devastating pandemic. Alarmingly, approximately one in four individuals diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) experience varying degrees of cognitive impairment, raising concerns about a potential increase in neurological sequelae cases. Neuroinflammation seems to be the key pathophysiological hallmark linking mild respiratory COVID‐19 to cognitive impairment, fatigue, and neurological sequelae in COVID‐19 patients, highlighting the interaction between the nervous and immune systems following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain how the virus disrupts physiological pathways to trigger inflammation within the CNS, potentially leading to neuronal damage. These include neuroinvasion, systemic inflammation, disruption of the lung and gut‐brain axes, and reactivation of latent viruses. This review explores the potential origins of neuroinflammation and the underlying neuroimmune cross‐talk, highlighting important unanswered questions in the field. Addressing these fundamental issues could enhance our understanding of the virus's impact on the CNS and inform strategies to mitigate its detrimental effects.
Emerging Bi‐Based Multicationic Ternary Chalcogenides as Promising Photoabsorbers for Solar Cells
Authors: Akhil S. , Kang Dong‐Won , Choi Hyosung , Balakrishna R. Geetha
Published: November 2024

Bismuth‐based multicationic chalcogenide solar cells of class ABiX2 (A–Ag, Cu; X–S, Se) have attracted substantial interest within the photovoltaic research community mainly due to their nontoxic nature and rising power conversion efficiencies. Although a good amount of research on these materials is underway, it calls for an intense and comprehensive approach to address the poor performance (PCE 10%) compared to its reported theoretical efficiency of 29%. Hence a review in this direction to address various unexplored concerns of these materials particularly, the defects and unfavorable band positions that give rise to enormous nonradiative recombinations, leading to major voltage losses in these devices is necessary. The article also discusses the structural and electronic properties, deposition techniques, device optimization strategies, impact of grain size, interface engineering, cationic disorder, transport layers, and light‐harvesting techniques that may be required to enhance the device performance. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of stability and cost considerations of the emerging AgBiS2 solar devices is conducted to unveil their real‐time applications in comparison to current state‐of‐the‐art devices.
Stability‐Indicating RP‐HPLC Method for Lopinavir Estimation in Pharmaceutical Co‐Crystals: A Design of Expert Approach
Authors: Mehta Pranali , Sharannavar Bhuvaneshwari R. , Koli Rahul
Published: November 2024

The primary objective of this investigation was to develop and validate a robust reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) method for the quantification of lopinavir in co‐crystals formed with fumaric acid and acetamide. A Box–Behnken design within the design of the experiment framework was employed to optimize chromatographic conditions. The method utilized a Phenomenex Luna C18 column and a mobile phase of methanol and 0.1% formic acid (80:20 v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, with detection at 259 nm. Validation followed ICH Q2 (R1 and R2) guidelines, confirming the method's specificity, accuracy, precision, linearity, and robustness. Co‐crystals of lopinavir were prepared using liquid‐assisted grinding and reaction crystallization techniques. The validated HPLC method successfully quantified lopinavir in these co‐crystals, with recovery rates ranging from 96.3% to 99.8%. Forced degradation studies under various stress conditions (acidic, base, oxidative, thermal, and photolytic) demonstrated the method's capability to distinguish lopinavir from its degradation products. In conclusion, the developed RP‐HPLC method is suitable for routine analysis and quality control of lopinavir in co‐crystal formulations. This method not only provides precise quantification but also offers insights into the enhanced delivery potential of lopinavir through co‐crystallization, contributing to improved therapeutic efficacy in HIV/AIDS treatment.
Biege‐ und Biegedrillknicken von Sandwichelementen mit einheitlicher Knickkurve
Authors: Feldmann Markus , Kuhnhenne Markus , Nonn Jonas , Janczyk Kevin
Published: November 2024

Mit Sandwichelementen ohne Unterkonstruktion können Raum‐ und Kühlzellen schnell und wirtschaftlich realisiert werden. Als tragende Wandbauteile übernehmen sie dann nicht nur Querlasten, sondern auch axial wirkende Kräfte aus der Deckenkonstruktion, sodass insbesondere bei zunehmenden Gebäudehöhen und Sandwichschlankheiten die Stabilitätsnachweise maßgebend werden. Dabei ist zu berücksichtigen, dass die auf der Deckenkonstruktion befindlichen Aufbauten beliebig angeordnet und somit die resultierenden Axiallasten exzentrisch zur Längsachse angreifen können. Die Stabilitätsnachweise sind deswegen in einem erweiterten Spektrum der möglichen Versagensphänomene zu berücksichtigen. So werden neben dem Biegeknicken unter zentrischer und exzentrischer Längsdruckkraft auch kombinierte Beanspruchungen aus Biege‐ und Biegedrillknicken relevant. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz werden ein einheitlicher Ansatz für Knickkurven für verschiedene Beanspruchungskonstellationen von axial beanspruchten Sandwichelementen und die damit verbundene Nachweisführung vorgestellt. Sie bilden die Grundlage für eine einfache, wirtschaftliche und insbesondere konsistente Stabilitätsbemessung dieser Bauteile.
Effect of nano‐silica on the mechanical performance and porosity evolution of concrete under freezing and thawing cycles
Authors: Yang Yujie , Xiao Ting , Ming Xuanang
Published: November 2024

The enhancement of freeze–thaw resistance in concrete is crucial for improving the durability and longevity of infrastructure in cold regions. Although the benefits of nano‐silica (NS) on concrete's freeze–thaw resistance have been demonstrated, there is still controversy surrounding the optimal concentration of admixture and underlying mechanisms. In this study, the mechanical performance (mass weight, elastic modulus, compressive and splitting strength) and porosity evolution (total porosity, porosity distribution and micro‐surface morphologies) of control concrete and concrete modified with five different NS admixture concentration (1%–5%) were tested under freezing and thawing (F–T) cycles, and damage models were established to assess the correlations between macroscopic and microscopic damages. The results indicate that F–T cycles lead to both damage in mechanic properties and porosity in concrete specimens. The effects of NS particles on macroscopic and microscopic damage under F–T conditions depend on their admixture concentration. A 2% concentration mitigates while a 5% dosage promotes both macroscopic and microscopic damages during F–T cycles. These differences can primarily be attributed to different dispersion status of NS particles in concrete, leading to variations in porosity evolution during F–T cycles. The macroscopic damage exhibit stronger correlation with microscopic damage factor modified by proportion of large pores compared to that only based on total porosity, suggest that the microscopic damage, especially large pores' proportion, contribute to macroscopic damage of concrete specimens under F–T cycles. These findings provide valuable references for field concrete engineering applications in cold areas.
Factors associated with elective surgical case cancellation at a tertiary hospital in Malawi
Authors: Serrato Paul , Msosa Vanessa , Kondwani Jephta , Nkhumbwah Mwai , Mowafi Hani , Smith Jonathan P. , Mulima Gift , Sion Melanie
Published: November 2024

Background

Same‐day cancellation of surgery affects up to 44% of cases at a public tertiary hospital in Lilongwe, Malawi. To characterize these cancellations, this study examines surgical volume, cancellation causes, and surgery completion rate after initial cancellation, which are not otherwise monitored for analysis in this setting.

Methods

We conducted a serial cross‐sectional study at the Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) during a 6 month period. Variables included patient demographics, procedure information, and hospital capacity factors. Bivariate and multivariable regression models were constructed to assess factors associated with cancellation.

Results

Of the 3121 total surgeries, 2626 (84.1%) were elective procedures, of which 747 (28.4%) were canceled. Orthopedic surgery observed the highest cancellation rate (36.5%). Process‐related factors, such as starting cases late, were the primary reason for cancellation (64.3%). Only 40% of patients with a canceled surgery underwent their procedure after index admission, with a median wait time of 3 days. Emergency cases (aOR: 0.50 and CI: 0.39 and 0.64) and first cases of the day (aOR: 0.02 and CI: 0.01 and 0.04) were associated with lower odds of cancellation. Facility factors associated with lower odds of cancellation included number of open operating rooms (OR: 0.86 and CI: 0.77 and 0.96) and anesthetists assigned on duty (OR: 0.94 and CI: 0.88 and 0.99).

Conclusion

Cancellation of elective surgery was primarily driven by process‐related factors. We identify facility‐related factors associated with lower odds of cancellation and thus provide targets for future interventions at KCH. Studies examining patient outcomes following elective case cancellation are warranted as most patients never return for surgery following cancellation.
Robustness of Corpus-Based Typological Strategies for Dependency Parsing
Authors: Alves Diego , Gomes Daniel
Published: November 2024

This chapter presents a comparison of the corpus-based typological classification of ten European Union languages obtained using parallel corpora, with one generated in a less controlled scenario, with non-parallel automatically annotated data. First, we described the specific pipeline that was created to extract and annotate multilingual data from the Arquivo.pt 2019 European Parliamentary Elections collection. Two new corpora for all EU languages were generated and made publicly and freely available: one composed of raw texts extracted from this collection and the other with syntactic annotation obtained automatically. Then, we presented an overview of different quantitative typological approaches developed for dependency parsing improvement and selected the most optimised ones to conduct our comparative analysis. Finally, we compared both scenarios using the same corpus-based strategy and showed that the classification obtained using the data provided by the Arquivo.pt dataset provides valuable linguistic information for this type of study, presenting similarities when compared to the classification based on parallel corpora. However, considering the dissimilarities observed, further analysis is required before validating this new method.
Collection and Integration of Event-Centric Information in Cross-Lingual Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Gottschalk Simon
Published: November 2024

Collecting and integrating event information in a knowledge graph enables the analysis of major societal events, their interdependencies with other events and actors and their perception and impact. While existing cross-domain knowledge graphs such as Wikidata and DBpedia also contain event knowledge, they are typically limited regarding the diversity of event representations and types. In this chapter, we first describe EventKG—a knowledge graph of multilingual event-centric information bringing together heterogeneous event information from different sources. Since the thorough understanding of events further demands the availability of context information in different modalities, we then present the Open Event Knowledge Graph (OEKG), which extends the coverage and modality of EventKG by integrating several of the event-related datasets presented in this book and opens up several possibilities for cross-lingual, event-centric open analytics. Through several statistics, example queries and applications, we show the versatility and the applicability of EventKG and OEKG for event analytics across languages and communities.
Introduction
Authors: Szymanski-Düll Berenika , Skwirblies Lisa
Published: November 2024

This chapter serves as the introduction to the book European Theatre Migrants in the Age of Empire. It presents the objectives of the volume, outlines its structure and methodological approach, and provides a glimpse into the subsequent chapters and sections, each addressing specific and selected topics related to aspects of European migration theatre history in the long nineteenth century.
Migration and the Expansion of German-Language Theatre in the Habsburg Monarchy: Reflecting on Internal Colonisation and Cultural Assimilation
Authors: Weber-Kapusta Danijela
Published: November 2024

This chapter deals with cultural asymmetries and hierarchies between the dominant German-language theatre and the national theatres in the Habsburg Monarchy in the nineteenth century. The central aim is to show the key role of German-speaking theatre migrants in the establishment of a professional theatre culture in the countries of today’s Eastern and Southeastern Europe. By doing this, the chapter explores the power structures that enabled the transnational establishment of the German-language theatre in linguistically, culturally, and ethnically very heterogeneous Crown Lands of the monarchy and examines the patterns of internal colonisation in the monarchy.