bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing a community‐academic nursing partnership to lead a healthcare response during a human trafficking extraction operation
Authors: Barnett Katherine , Saye Jamie , Beidler Susan M.
Published: June 2024

A community‐academic nursing partnership formed to care for the urgent healthcare needs of individuals extracted from human trafficking during a multidisciplinary team operation. During past human trafficking extraction operations, law enforcement and the state sexual assault nurse examiner coordinator recognized the need to meet the patients' immediate physical and emotional needs while providing essential comfort to the newly extracted individuals. To meet the immediate holistic healthcare needs during the recovery operation, the nursing faculty partnered with a local nonprofit community clinic to provide onsite trauma‐informed, patient‐centered healthcare and comfort items. The healthcare team consisted of advanced practice nurses, mental health nurses who triaged the patient's immediate psychological needs, sexual assault nurses who collected forensic specimens, and nurses with expertise in substance use disorder who evaluated the patient's treatment needs. The patient's physical comfort was met by providing hygiene kits, blankets, socks, food, and drinks. Trauma‐informed language was utilized to help the patient feel safe and to convey respect for the patient's autonomy in making decisions during the extraction process. The innovative community‐academic nursing partnership laid the groundwork for providing healthcare to future human trafficking extraction operations with plans to incorporate nursing students and graduate nursing students to increase the number of patients served while providing a rich learning experience to the students.
Analytical and numerical solutions for the boundary layer flow and heat transfer over a moving wedge in Casson fluid
Authors: Joshi Shrivatsa R. , Kirsur Shreenivas R. , Nargund Achala L.
Published: June 2024

This paper presents exact, analytical, and numerical solutions to the two‐dimensional Casson fluid boundary layer flow over a moving wedge with varying wall temperature. The boundary layer flow of the Casson fluid with varying wall temperature is governed by a system of partial differential equations called Prandtl boundary layer equations modified by Casson fluid. By applying similarity transformations the governing system of partial differential equations is reduced to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations called as the Falkner–Skan equation modified by Casson fluid flow with heat transfer (C‐FSEHT). In the beginning, an exact solution of the C‐FSEHT is obtained for the particular values of physical parameters (i.e., , , , see nomenclature) in terms of two standard functions, namely error function and exponential function. Thus, obtained exact solution is then modified to obtain the analytical solution of C‐FSEHT for general values of physical parameters, in terms of power series. The analysis of the asymptotic behavior of the problem, when the wedge velocity is very large (), is performed using the Dirichlet series. A comparative analysis is performed using the Chebyshev collocation technique (CCT) to validate the obtained results in all the scenarios. The effect of governing parameters, which are the Casson parameter , Hartree pressure gradient parameter , moving wedge parameter , Prandtl number , and wedge temperature parameter on the skin friction coefficient, temperature coefficient, velocity profiles, and temperature profiles is discussed in detail. Multiple solutions are found analytically for fixed values of governing parameters. The fact that an increase in the value of the Casson parameter () reduces the thickness of both velocity and temperature boundary layers, is also validated during the study.
Temporal trends and distributional changes in cardiorespiratory fitness among Chinese children and adolescents from 1985 to 2019
Authors: Li Chengyue , Zhang Juanxin , Maisiwute Maierdan , Zhou Zhidong , Zang Liuhong
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze the temporal trends in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and body mass index (BMI) among children and adolescents from 1985 to 2019.

Methods

A total of 1 840 212 children and adolescents aged 7–18 years (921 223 boys) were tested for CRF from 1985 to 2019. CRF was tested by 50‐m × 8 shuttle run for boys and girls aged 7–12 years, 1000‐m run for boys aged 13–18 years, and 800‐m run for girls aged 13–18 years. Trends in BMI from 2000 to 2019 were also investigated.

Results

Cardiorespiratory fitness decreased during the entire 34 years among children and adolescents in all sex and age categories, and the most rapid decline occurred from 1995 to 2005. Some positive trends in CRF were observed among adolescents aged 13–15 years from 2005 to 2019 and among girls aged 16–18 years from 2014 to 2019. The variation in the CRF distribution was not uniform, with Z‐scores for participants with high CRF levels changing little or increasing (CRF stabilized or improved) and Z‐scores for participants with low CRF levels continuing to decrease (CRF decreased). BMI increased over time for boys and girls in all age categories, with an acceleration of the increase for adolescents in recent years.

Conclusions

This study revealed that the overall CRF levels of Chinese children and adolescents decreased over three decades but stabilized or improved in recent years. BMI continued to increase. Our findings are important for the focus on future domestic physical fitness and public health.
Computed tomography‐derived structural analysis for the likelihood of pathologic fracture in canine antebrachial osteosarcoma
Authors: Steffey Michele A. , Garcia Tanya C. , Gorney Angela , Stover Susan M. , Zwingenberger Allison L.
Published: June 2024

Determining the risk of pathologic fracture in dogs with a primary bone tumor would aid in case selection for in‐situ treatment options. Prior research found strong relationships between in vitro strength of canine antebrachii with primary bone tumors and CT‐derived metrics. This study assesses the prognosis for pathologic fracture in dogs with distal radial bone tumors using CT‐derived structural analysis metrics. CT images of the antebrachium in dogs with aggressive osseous lesions of the radius were used to calculate structural rigidity and failure forces, including axial rigidity (AR), craniocaudal bending rigidity (BR), torsional rigidity (TR), and failure forces for a slightly‐curved/asymmetric beam (Fs) or a curved beam (Fc). Metrics were compared with the clinical outcome of radial fracture. Eight of 19 dogs with CT‐derived metrics developed a radial fracture. The prognostic potential of the metrics to discriminate fractured and nonfractured bones was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves (area under the curve), stepwise logistic regression, and classification regression (CART) analyses. Fc was the most sensitive and specific metric for prognosing fracture occurrence (AUC = 0.864). When dog body weight (BW) was included, all five metrics had AUC > 0.705. Fc was the best predictor of fracture using stepwise logistic regression and CART analysis, followed by BR. An indication of fracture probability can be determined by normalizing Fc or BR with dog BW or by using the logistic regression equation of either metric with dog BW. Results warrant further analysis of a larger cohort to evaluate fracture likelihood in dogs with antebrachial bone neoplasia.
Occipital subcutaneous schwannoma diagnosed by ultrasound
Authors: Li Li , Shi Na , Piao Yilan
Published: June 2024

.
Bimodality in Ras signaling originates from processivity of the Ras activator SOS without deterministic bistability
Authors: Lee Albert A. , Kim Neil H. , Alvarez Steven , Ren He , DeGrandchamp Joseph B. , Lew L. J. Nugent , Groves Jay T.
Published: June 2024

Ras is a small GTPase that is central to important functional decisions in diverse cell types. An important aspect of Ras signaling is its ability to exhibit bimodal or switch-like activity. We describe the total reconstitution of a receptor-mediated Ras activation-deactivation reaction catalyzed by SOS and p120-RasGAP on supported lipid membrane microarrays. The results reveal a bimodal Ras activation response, which is not a result of deterministic bistability but is rather driven by the distinct processivity of the Ras activator, SOS. Furthermore, the bimodal response is controlled by the condensation state of the scaffold protein, LAT, to which SOS is recruited. Processivity-driven bimodality leads to stochastic bursts of Ras activation even under strongly deactivating conditions. This behavior contrasts deterministic bistability and may be more resistant to pharmacological inhibition.
Experimental realization of a three-photon asymmetric maximally entangled state and its application to quantum state transfer
Authors: Zhou Linxiang , Xu Qiao , Feng Tianfeng , Zhou Xiaoqi
Published: June 2024

Quantum entanglement is crucial for quantum information processing, prominently used in quantum communication, computation, and metrology. Recent studies have shifted toward high-dimensional entangled states, offering greater information capacity and enabling more complex applications. Here, we experimentally prepared a three-photon asymmetric maximally entangled state, comprising two two-dimensional photons and one four-dimensional photon. Using this state, we conducted a proof-of-principle experiment, successfully transferring a four-dimensional quantum state from two photons to another photon with fidelities ranging from 0.78 to 0.86. These results exceed theoretical limits, demonstrating genuine four-dimensional quantum state transfer. The asymmetric entangled state demonstrated here holds promise for future quantum networks as a quantum interface facilitating information transfer across quantum systems with different dimensions.
Carbonated magmatic sulfide systems: Still or sparkling?
Authors: Cherdantseva Maria , Anenburg Michael , Fiorentini Marco , Mavrogenes John
Published: June 2024

For decades, there has been debate surrounding the transport of dense metal-rich sulfide liquid in mafic magmas. This topic is crucial to understanding the genesis of valuable resources of nickel, copper, and platinum-group elements, which are essential for a sustainable, emission-free energy future. Recent studies of mineralized mafic magmas suggested that gas bubbles adhere to sulfide globules, reducing their density and favoring upward transport. While this hypothesis may explain sulfide mobility in near-surface magmatic environments, it is at odds with key mineralogic and textural observations and does not explain how long-distance sulfide transport operates. Here, we suggest an alternative hypothesis that builds on previous observations, focusing on the interaction between carbonate melt and sulfide liquid. We demonstrate experimentally that carbonate melt wraps sulfide globules forming a relatively mobile pair that may mediate metal-rich sulfide transport from mantle to crust.
Evidence that the cold- and menthol-sensing functions of the human TRPM8 channel evolved separately
Authors: Luu Dustin D. , Ramesh Nikhil , Kazan I. Can , Shah Karan H. , Lahiri Gourab , Mana Miyeko D. , Ozkan S. Banu , Van Horn Wade D.
Published: June 2024

Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) is a temperature- and menthol-sensitive ion channel that contributes to diverse physiological roles, including cold sensing and pain perception. Clinical trials targeting TRPM8 have faced repeated setbacks predominantly due to the knowledge gap in unraveling the molecular underpinnings governing polymodal activation. A better understanding of the molecular foundations between the TRPM8 activation modes may aid the development of mode-specific, thermal-neutral therapies. Ancestral sequence reconstruction was used to explore the origins of TRPM8 activation modes. By resurrecting key TRPM8 nodes along the human evolutionary trajectory, we gained valuable insights into the trafficking, stability, and function of these ancestral forms. Notably, this approach unveiled the differential emergence of cold and menthol sensitivity over evolutionary time, providing a fresh perspective on complex polymodal behavior. These studies provide a paradigm for understanding polymodal behavior in TRPM8 and other proteins with the potential to enhance our understanding of sensory receptor biology and pave the way for innovative therapeutic interventions.
Mesoporous amorphous non-noble metals as versatile substrates for high loading and uniform dispersion of Pt-group single atoms
Authors: Kang Yunqing , Li Shuangjun , Cretu Ovidiu , Kimoto Koji , Zhao Yingji , Zhu Liyang , Wei Xiaoqian , Fu Lei , Jiang Dong , Wan Chao , Jiang Bo , Asahi Toru , Zhang Dieqing , Li Hexing , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: June 2024

Atomically dispersed Pt-group metals are promising as nanocatalysts because of their unique geometric structures and ultrahigh atomic utilization. However, loading isolated Pt-group metals in single-atom alloys (SAAs) with distinctive bimetallic sites is challenging. In this study, we present amorphous mesoporous Ni boride (Ni-B) as an ideal substrate to uniformly disperse Pt atoms with tunable loadings (1.7 to 12.2 wt %). The effect of the morphology, composition, and crystal phase of the Ni-B host on the growth and dispersion of Pt atoms is discussed. The resulting amorphous Pt-Ni-B mesoporous nanospheres exhibit superior electrocatalytic H
2
evolution performance in acidic media. This strategy holds the potential to synthesize a diverse library of mesoporous amorphous Pt-group SAAs, by leveraging functional amorphous nanostructured 3
d
transition-metal borides as substrates, thereby proposing a comprehensive strategy to control atomically dispersed Pt-group metals.
Tailoring local chemical fluctuation of high-entropy structures in thermoelectric materials
Authors: Wang Wu , Liu Shixuan , Wang Yan , Jia Baohai , Huang Yi , Xie Lin , Jiang Binbin , He Jiaqing
Published: June 2024

In high-entropy materials, local chemical fluctuation from multiple elements inhabiting the same crystallographic site plays a crucial role in their unique properties. Using atomic-resolution chemical mapping, we identified the respective contributions of different element characteristics on the local chemical fluctuation of high-entropy structures in thermoelectric materials. Electronegativity and mass had a comparable influence on the fluctuations of constituent elements, while the radius made a slight contribution. The local chemical fluctuation was further tailored by selecting specific elements to induce large lattice distortion and strong strain fluctuation to lower lattice thermal conductivity independent of increased entropy. The chemical bond fluctuation induced by the electronegativity difference had a noticeable contribution to the composition-dependent lattice thermal conductivity in addition to the known fluctuations of mass and strain field. Our findings provide a fundamental principle for tuning local chemical fluctuation and lattice thermal conductivity in high-entropy thermoelectric materials.
SARS-CoV-2 inflammation durably imprints memory CD4 T cells
Authors: Gray-Gaillard Sophie L. , Solis Sabrina M. , Chen Han M. , Monteiro Clarice , Ciabattoni Grace , Samanovic Marie I. , Cornelius Amber R. , Williams Tijaana , Geesey Emilie , Rodriguez Miguel , Ortigoza Mila Brum , Ivanova Ellie N. , Koralov Sergei B. , Mulligan Mark J. , Herati Ramin Sedaghat
Published: June 2024

Memory CD4 T cells are critical to human immunity, yet it is unclear whether viral inflammation during memory formation has long-term consequences. Here, we compared transcriptional and epigenetic landscapes of Spike (S)–specific memory CD4 T cells in 24 individuals whose first exposure to S was via SARS-CoV-2 infection or mRNA vaccination. Nearly 2 years after memory formation, S-specific CD4 T cells established by infection remained enriched for transcripts related to cytotoxicity and for interferon-stimulated genes, likely because of a chromatin accessibility landscape altered by inflammation. Moreover, S-specific CD4 T cells primed by infection had reduced proliferative capacity in vitro relative to vaccine-primed cells. Furthermore, the transcriptional state of S-specific memory CD4 T cells was minimally altered by booster immunization and/or breakthrough infection. Thus, infection-associated inflammation durably imprints CD4 T cell memory, which affects the function of these cells and may have consequences for long-term immunity.
Defining the value of medical microbiology consultation
Authors: Rodino Kyle G. , Luethy Paul M. , Abbott April N. , Bender Jeffrey M. , Eberly Allison R. , Gitman Melissa , Leber Amy , Dien Bard Jennifer ,   on behalf of the Personnel Standards and Workforce Subcommittee, American Society for Microbiology
Published: June 2024

Medical microbiologists, defined as doctoral-level laboratory directors with subspecialty training in medical microbiology, lead the clinical laboratory operations through activities such as clinical consultations, oversight of diagnostic testing menu, institutional leadership, education, and scholastic activities. However, unlike their clinical colleagues, medical microbiologists are largely unable to bill for clinical consultations performed within the hospital and, therefore, unable to generate relative value units or a similar quantifiable metric. As hospital budgets tighten and justification of staffing becomes a necessity, this may present a challenge to the medical microbiologist attempting to prove their value to the organization. To aid in providing tangible data, the Personnel Standards and Workforce subcommittee of the American Society for Microbiology conducted a multi-center study across seven medical centers to document clinical consultations and their impact. Consults were generated equally from internal (laboratory-based) and external (hospital-based) parties, with the majority directly impacting patient management. Near universal acceptance of the medical microbiologist’s recommendation highlights the worth derived from their expertise. External consults required more time commitment from the medical microbiologist than internal consults, although both presented ample opportunity for secondary value, including impact through stewardship, education, clinical guidance, and cost reduction. This study is a description of the content and impact of consultations that underscore the importance of the medical microbiologist as a key member of the healthcare team.

IMPORTANCE

Medical microbiologists are invaluable to the clinical microbiology laboratory and the healthcare system as a whole. However, as medical microbiologists do not regularly generate relative value units, capturing and quantifying the value provided is challenging. As hospital budgets tighten, justification of staffing becomes a necessity. To aid in providing tangible data, the Personnel Standards and Workforce subcommittee of the American Society for Microbiology conducted a multi-center study across seven medical centers to document clinical consultations and their impact. To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide detailed evaluation of the consultative value provided by medical microbiologists.
Granitic mush compaction by impingement of a large felsic enclave: Evidence from the Aztec Wash pluton (Nevada, USA)
Authors: Teeter Elizabeth C. , Gualda Guilherme A.R. , Miller Calvin F.
Published: June 2024

Compaction and melt extraction are key processes in the generation of melt-dominated magma bodies. We analyze magmatic fabrics in the Aztec Wash pluton (15.7 Ma; Nevada, USA) to understand magma dynamics during emplacement of a large (2 m diameter) felsic enclave (LFE) in a silicic magma body. We hypothesize that the LFE moved through crystal-poor magma, settling into crystal-rich magma. We analyze four granite samples collected near the enclave: two 0.25 m below the enclave (E-5 and E-2); one 0.5 m below (E-6); and one 2.5 m to the side (E-3, far field). We use the scanning electron microscope (SEM) to gather data using backscattered electron (BSE) microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) imaging. BSE maps show large (up to 10 mm) euhedral alkali feldspar grains in E-5 and E-2, while E-6 and E-3 have large (up to 6 mm) alkali feldspar with distinct irregular and wavy rims. Dark BSE alkali feldspar rims correlate with Ba depletion in EDS maps. Broken feldspars in E-5 and E-2 have mismatched zones in BSE and orientation differences in EBSD. Grain orientation spread (GOS) maps show that alkali feldspar has the highest degree of intragrain deformation, followed by plagioclase, then quartz. Histograms of the angle between the vertical plane and the pole to the (010) plane demonstrate clustering in E-5, suggesting an enhanced fabric. Differences in rim texture suggest melt extraction beneath the enclave and melt retained in the far field. EBSD data reveal an enhanced foliation beneath the LFE. We conclude that mush under the LFE was deformed during emplacement of the LFE, expelling melt and reorienting grains.
Supplemental Material: Dynamic redox conditions in Mesoproterozoic shallow seawater: Constraints from carbonate fabrics and geochemistry
Authors: Sun Longfei , Tang Dongjie , al. et
Published: June 2024

Table S1: The iodine concentrations of the reference material GSR 12 measured by MC-ICP-MS. Table S2: ICP-MS analysis of the dolostone standard JDo-1. Table S3: Geochemical data from carbonate rocks of the Wumishan Formation, North China. Table S4: Isotopic composition of the Wumishan Formation, Lingyuan section. Table S5: REY and Th concentrations in the lower Member IV of the Wumishan Formation, Lingyuan section.
Barriers to initiating and implementing palliative and end-of-life care for children with life-limiting conditions: a mixed-methods study in a UK children’s hospital
Authors: Umezurike Indira , Dittborn Mariana , Whitelaw James , Bedford Helen , Brierley Joe
Published: June 2024

Background

To ensure that children with life-limiting conditions (LLC) and their families have access to a palliative care pathway from diagnosis to death and bereavement, a better understanding of the challenges experienced by paediatric healthcare professionals caring for children with LLC is needed.

Aim

To explore the barriers paediatricians face in initiating and implementing palliative and end-of-life care for children with LLC.

Methods

Due to the challenges of COVID-19, the study was performed as a service evaluation using semi-structured interviews and an online questionnaire with consultant paediatricians in general paediatrics, community paediatrics and multiple subspecialties at a UK children’s hospital between December 2020 and August 2021. Twelve interviews and 18 online questionnaires were completed. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, and descriptive statistics were used for questionnaire responses.

Results

Recurring themes from both data sets were further analysed and five themes were developed: (1) Problems with the leadership of palliative and end-of-life care; (2) Problems with preparing advanced care plans; (3) Lack of training in paediatric palliative care and advanced communication; (4) Problems communicating with families; and (5) Lack of recognition of children with LLC and high-profile cases.

Conclusions

We found that the barriers to effective palliative and end-of-life planning are multifaceted and pervasive, so healthcare professionals must establish clearer pathways to overcome them. Approaches suggested included (1) discussing palliative care for children with LLC at professional encounters, for example, departmental meetings, peer-review meetings and morbidity and mortality meetings and (2) advanced communication training in palliative and end-of-life care.
Planned dose reduction of ocrelizumab in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a single-centre observational study
Authors: Tran Trung Dang Quoc , Hall Leanne , Heal Clare , Haleagrahara Nagaraja , Edwards Sharon , Boggild Mike
Published: June 2024

Background

Ocrelizumab, a humanised anti-CD20 monoclonal, is a highly effective treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The long-term safety of B-cell depletion in RRMS, however, is uncertain and there are no data on dose reduction of ocrelizumab as a risk mitigation strategy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of reducing ocrelizumab dose from 600 to 300 mg in patients with RRMS.

Method

Data were collected through the Townsville neurology service. Following the standard randomised controlled trial regimen of 600 mg every 6 months for 2 years, sequential patients consented to dose reduction to 300 mg every 6 months. Patients were included if they were diagnosed with RRMS and received at least one reduced dose of ocrelizumab. Relapse, disability progression, new MRI lesions, CD19+cell counts and immunoglobulin concentrations were analysed.

Results

A total of 35 patients, treated with 177 full and 107 reduced doses, were included. The mean follow-up on reduced dose was 17 (1–31) months. We observed no relapses or new MRI activity in the cohort receiving the reduced dose, accompanied by persistent CD19+B cell depletion (≤0.05×109/L). Mean IgG, IgA and IgM levels remained stable throughout the study. No new safety concerns arose.

Conclusions

In this single-centre observational study, dose reduction of ocrelizumab from 600 to 300 mg every 6 months after 2 years appeared to maintain efficacy in terms of new inflammatory disease activity. A randomised trial may be warranted to confirm this and explore the impact of dose reduction on long-term safety.
Morbidity and unplanned healthcare encounters after hospital discharge among young children in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and Monrovia, Liberia
Authors: Kisenge Rodrick , Ideh Readon C , Kamara Julia , Coleman-Nekar Ye-Jeung G , Samma Abraham , Godfrey Evance , Manji Hussein K , Sudfeld Christopher R , Westbrook Adrianna , Niescierenko Michelle , Morris Claudia R , Whitney Cynthia G , Breiman Robert F , Duggan Christopher P , Manji Karim P , Rees Chris A
Published: June 2024

Background

Researchers and healthcare providers have paid little attention to morbidity and unplanned healthcare encounters for children following hospital discharge in low- and middle-income countries. Our objective was to compare symptoms and unplanned healthcare encounters among children aged <5 years who survived with those who died within 60 days of hospital discharge through follow-up phone calls.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of a prospective observational cohort of children aged <5 years discharged from neonatal and paediatric wards of two national referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and Monrovia, Liberia. Caregivers of enrolled participants received phone calls 7, 14, 30, 45, and 60 days after hospital discharge to record symptoms, unplanned healthcare encounters, and vital status. We used logistic regression to determine the association between reported symptoms and unplanned healthcare encounters with 60-day post-discharge mortality.

Results

A total of 4243 participants were enrolled and had 60-day vital status available; 138 (3.3%) died. For every additional symptom ever reported following discharge, there was a 35% greater likelihood of post-discharge mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10 to 1.66; p=0.004). The greatest survival difference was noted for children who had difficulty breathing (2.1% among those who survived vs 36.0% among those who died, p<0.001). Caregivers who took their child home from the hospital against medical advice during the initial hospitalisation had over eight times greater odds of post-discharge mortality (aOR 8.06, 95% CI 3.87 to 16.3; p<0.001) and those who were readmitted to a hospital had 3.42 greater odds (95% CI 1.55 to 8.47; p=0.004) of post-discharge mortality than those who did not seek care when adjusting for site, sociodemographic factors, and clinical variables.

Conclusion

Surveillance for symptoms and repeated admissions following hospital discharge by healthcare providers is crucial to identify children at risk for post-discharge mortality.
Simplified
Helicobacter pylori
therapy for patients with penicillin allergy: a randomised controlled trial of vonoprazan-tetracycline dual therapy
Authors: Gao Wen , Liu Jianxiang , Wang Xiaolei , Li Jingwen , Zhang Xuezhi , Ye Hui , Li Jiang , Dong Xinhong , Liu Binbin , Wang Chi , Xu Ying , Teng Guigen , Tian Yuling , Dong Jinpei , Ge Chaoyi , Cheng Hong
Published: June 2024

Background and aims

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan and tetracycline (VT) dual therapy as first-line treatment for
Helicobacter pylori
infection in patients with penicillin allergy.

Methods

In this randomised controlled trial, treatment-naïve adults with
H. pylori
infection and penicillin allergy were randomised 1:1 to receive either open-label VT dual therapy (vonoprazan 20 mg two times per day+tetracycline 500 mg three times a day) or bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT; lansoprazole 30 mg two times per day+colloidal bismuth 150 mg three times a day+tetracycline 500 mg three times a day+metronidazole 400 mg three times a day) for 14 days. The primary outcome was non-inferiority in eradication rates in the VT dual group compared with the BQT group. Secondary outcomes included assessing adverse effects.

Results

300 patients were randomised. The eradication rates in the VT group and the BQT group were: 92.0% (138/150, 95% CI 86.1% to 95.6%) and 89.3% (134/150, 95% CI 83.0% to 93.6%) in intention-to-treat analysis (difference 2.7%; 95% CI −4.6% to 10.0%; non-inferiority p=0.000); 94.5% (138/146, 95% CI 89.1% to 97.4%) and 93.1% (134/144, 95% CI 87.3% to 96.4%) in modiﬁed intention-to-treat analysis (difference 1.5%; 95% CI −4.9% to 8.0%; non-inferiority p=0.001); 95.1% (135/142, 95% CI 89.7% to 97.8%) and 97.7% (128/131, 95% CI 92.9% to 99.4%) in per-protocol analysis (difference 2.6%; 95% CI −2.9% to 8.3%; non-inferiority p=0.000). The treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were significantly lower in the VT group (14.0% vs 48.0%, p=0.000), with fewer treatment discontinuations due to TEAEs (2.0% vs 8.7%, p=0.010).

Conclusions

VT dual therapy demonstrated efficacy and safety as a first-line treatment for
H. pylori
infection in the penicillin-allergic population, with comparable efficacy and a lower incidence of TEAEs compared with traditional BQT.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300074693.
Logistics and administration-related stressors among young physicians working in the emergency medicine (EM) department and their perceived job satisfaction in EM department across hospitals of India: a nationwide multicentric digital survey
Authors: Ghiya Murtuza , Gangurde Alok A , Varghese Jilshy , Hishaam Mohamed M A , Krishna Balamurali , Raj Jeffrey Pradeep , Lal Manu Mathew
Published: June 2024

Objective

Emergency medicine (EM) is a growing specialty in India with the board approving training programme commencing only since 2009. This study aimed to identify the challenges faced by EM department personnel in the country and to obtain valuable insight into the concerns and problems experienced by them.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional digital survey conducted among EM department personnel in teaching institutions across India. The study involved 170 respondents, who completed an online questionnaire that covered various aspects of their work and identified the challenges they faced. It also captured potential solutions as perceived by the respondents.

Results

A total of n=170 participants completed the survey of which N=164 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The study revealed significant challenges faced by EM personnel in India. Administrative and clerical work consumed a considerable amount of respondents’ time. Understaffing (n=144/164; 87.8%), followed by complains about delay due to hospital administrative processes and policies (n=141/164; 85.9%), and delay in interhospital transfers (n=139/164; 84.8%) were the primary concerns spelt out by the respondents. Additionally, respondents experienced interpersonal conflicts, and verbal/physical abuse and inappropriate behaviour from patients and their family members. Potential key solutions suggested were to improve resources including manpower and take steps to prevent violence against EM staff.

Conclusion

The study’s results call for policy-makers and hospital administrators to address the issues faced by EM department staff. Improving EM department operations can improve patient care and staff well-being. Future research should examine challenges in non-teaching institutions and potential solutions.
Pulmonary sarcoidosis: differences in lung function change over time
Authors: Sharp Michelle , Psoter Kevin J , Mustafa Ali M , Chen Edward S , Lin Nancy W , Mathai Stephen C , Gilotra Nisha A , Eakin Michelle N , Wise Robert A , Moller David R , McCormack Meredith C
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Given the heterogeneity of sarcoidosis, predicting disease course of patients remains a challenge. Our aim was to determine whether the 3-year change in pulmonary function differed between pulmonary function phenotypes and whether there were differential longitudinal changes by race and sex.

Methods

We identified individuals seen between 2005 and 2015 with a confirmed diagnosis of sarcoidosis who had at least two pulmonary function test measurements within 3 years of entry into the cohort. For each individual, spirometry, diffusion capacity, Charlson Comorbidity Index, sarcoidosis organ involvement, diagnosis duration, tobacco use, race, sex, age and medications were recorded. We compared changes in pulmonary function by type of pulmonary function phenotype and for demographic groups.

Results

Of 291 individuals, 59% (173) were female and 54% (156) were black. Individuals with restrictive pulmonary function phenotype had significantly greater 3-year rate of decline of FVC% (forced vital capacity) predicted and FEV
1
% (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) predicted course when compared with normal phenotype. We identified a subset of individuals in the cohort, highest decliners, who had a median 3-year FVC decline of 156 mL. Black individuals had worse pulmonary function at entry into the cohort measured by FVC% predicted, FEV
1
% predicted and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide % predicted compared with white individuals. Black individuals’ pulmonary function remained stable or declined over time, whereas white individuals’ pulmonary function improved over time. There were no sex differences in rate of change in any pulmonary function parameters.

We found significant differences in 3-year change in pulmonary function among pulmonary function phenotypes and races, but no difference between sexes.
Polar bear dens on the Seal and Caribou Rivers, Manitoba
Authors: Clark Douglas A. , Kennah Joanie L. , MacLean Chantal Cadger , Atkinson Stephen N.
Published: June 2024

During aerial surveys, we opportunistically located clusters of polar bear ( Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774) earth dens on and near the Seal and Caribou Rivers in Northern Manitoba in 2011, 2022, and 2023. Polar bear denning has not been documented in the published literature there before, but there is local knowledge of denning in this area. These dens are of two different types (shallow dens and pits), with similar characteristics to those in the Western Hudson Bay polar bear subpopulation’s main denning area, 120 km farther south. It is not possible to determine whether these findings represent a northward extension of denning by this subpopulation but changes in den distribution, particularly in such previously overlooked areas, need to be monitored and understood to effectively conserve polar bears in a warming climate.
Regional bridge risk assessment due to the combined effect of flooding and overloading events in Manitoba
Authors: Fiorillo Graziano , Safa Shadi
Published: June 2024

The challenges experienced by Canada’s aging infrastructure require probabilistic methods to address the threats that bridge systems are exposed to. This study provides a framework to evaluate risk associated with two major bridge hazards such as flooding and overloading in Manitoba. The probability of failure of highway bridges due to overloading is assessed as a function of traffic volume and overweight percentages. The probability of failure due to flooding is obtained from a spatial analysis of the water levels. Finally, consequences of failure are established from the analysis of insurance exposure, including climate change effects. Historic data are projected ten years into the future through an ARIMA model. The results of the analysis show that the risk for bridges in the south-west regions of Manitoba is expected to increase by 2035 up to 40% for water levels of 3.0 m and up to 0.6% for a threshold of 12.0 m.
Physical and mechanical properties affecting the suitability of black ash wood for W8banaki basketry
Authors: Boudreault Laurence , Chagnon Catherine , Gauthier-Nolett Luc , Durand-Nolett Michel , Gill Danny , Flamand-Hubert Maude , Achim Alexis
Published: June 2024

Black ash ( Fraxinus nigra Marsh.) is an important species for the W8banaki Nation, which uses its wood for traditional basketry. This study aimed to identify the wood properties required for black ash splints used in basketry. Eleven logs were selected and pounded into 26 longitudinal groups of annual wood layers, which were then transformed into splints. A quality class (high, medium, or low) was assigned by W8banakiak knowledge carriers to each group of rings. We measured wood density, ring width, modulus of elasticity, and modulus of rupture on samples located at the same radial position in wood bolts collected adjacently to the logs used for pounding. To investigate which wood properties were best related to the assigned wood quality class, we applied a generalized linear mixed model. Our model revealed a significant effect of ring width and average ring density on the probability to obtain a given wood quality class. Narrow- to medium-sized rings and relatively dense wood offered the best quality for basketry practice. Based on our results, further research on the effects of growth conditions that favour the production of high-quality black ash wood could be conducted to ultimately propose silvicultural treatments and management strategies.
Influence of different machining methods on the surface roughness of TC4: dry milling, water-based fluid wet milling, and foam spray milling
Authors: Li You , Li Shuncai , Wang Xin
Published: June 2024

The surface quality of workpieces is influenced by various factors, including processing parameters, processing techniques, cutting force, and cutting vibration. Many researchers have studied wet cutting to minimize milling forces and vibrations. We explore a high-density water-based foam milling method. By this method the foam is sprayed onto the surface area of tool and workpiece to absorb vibration energy. Firstly, a milling test system was established to conduct tests on TC4 titanium alloy under three different machining conditions (dry milling, water-based fluid wet milling, and foam spray milling), and the three-dimensional (3D) milling forces and milling vibrations were simultaneously recorded during the milling process, and the workpiece’s surface roughness was measured using a contact roughness measuring instrument. Then principal component analysis method was performed on the 3D milling forces and vibrations to obtain dimensionality-reduced feature values. Subsequently, multi-feature combination prediction models of surface roughness corresponding to the three machining conditions were developed using particle swarm optimization and a generalized regression neural network. Finally, the developed prediction models were compared and analyzed. The research results indicate that high-density water-based foam spray milling can effectively reduce the milling force by 70% and the milling vibration by 85% at most. Foam spray milling reduces the average roughness by up to 49%. The roughness prediction accuracy reaches 95.43%, with an error of less than 0.054 µm.
Spatial-Temporal Dynamic Hypergraph Information Bottleneck for Brain Network Classification
Authors: Dong Changxu , Sun Dengdi
Published: June 2024

Recently, Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) have gained widespread application in automatic brain network classification tasks, owing to their ability to directly capture crucial information in non-Euclidean structures. However, two primary challenges persist in this domain. First, within the realm of clinical neuro-medicine, signals from cerebral regions are inevitably contaminated with noise stemming from physiological or external factors. The construction of brain networks heavily relies on set thresholds and feature information within brain regions, making it susceptible to the incorporation of such noises into the brain topology. Additionally, the static nature of the artificially constructed brain network’s adjacent structure restricts real-time changes in brain topology. Second, mainstream GNN-based approaches tend to focus solely on capturing information interactions of nearest neighbor nodes, overlooking high-order topology features. In response to these challenges, we propose an adaptive unsupervised Spatial-Temporal Dynamic Hypergraph Information Bottleneck (ST-DHIB) framework for dynamically optimizing brain networks. Specifically, adopting an information theory perspective, Graph Information Bottleneck (GIB) is employed for purifying graph structure, and dynamically updating the processed input brain signals. From a graph theory standpoint, we utilize the designed Hypergraph Neural Network (HGNN) and Bi-LSTM to capture higher-order spatial-temporal context associations among brain channels. Comprehensive patient-specific and cross-patient experiments have been conducted on two available datasets. The results demonstrate the advancement and generalization of the proposed framework.
Discrete Dynamic Modeling Analysis of Badminton Games Based on Viterbi Algorithm in College Badminton Physical Education
Authors: Jiang Xiaofeng , Guo Xiude , Feng Hui , Ren Fangling
Published: June 2024

With the rapid development of machine learning and artificial intelligence, society has gradually stepped into the era of intelligence, and a series of research results and intelligent products based on machine learning and artificial intelligence have emerged. In this paper, machine learning methods are applied to the classification and recognition of badminton stroke actions, and on this basis, a statistical scheme of badminton technical features is constructed, a badminton stroke action recognition algorithm is proposed, and a real-time badminton action recognition system is implemented on this basis. Based on the model features of Hidden Markov Model (HMM) and the training method of Viterbi algorithm (VA), this paper proposes a VA scheme to recognize ten common badminton strokes. Experiments show that the algorithm model system designed in this paper can recognize the ten common strokes in real time. The average recognition rate of the proposed scheme is improved by 6.4% compared with the traditional scheme, and the final comprehensive recognition rate of the stroke can reach 94%.
Pseudoclassical mechanics à la Faddeev–Jackiw
Authors: Caro L. G. , de Gracia G. B. , Pimentel B. M. , Zambrano G. E. R.
Published: June 2024

In this study, we propose an extension of the formulation developed by Faddeev and Jackiw to include anticommutative variables in the language of supergeometry, as it could be a cost-effective way to determine the ([Formula: see text]-graded) Poisson structure of theories describing spin-like degrees of freedom. Specifically, we apply the developed approach to pseudoclassical systems to lately use the standard canonical quantization program to check whether their already known quantum description is recovered.
Predicting Depression, Anxiety, and Their Comorbidity among Patients with Breast Cancer in China Using Machine Learning: A Multisite Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Li Shu , Shi Jing , Shao Chunyu , Sznajder Kristin K. , Wu Hui , Yang Xiaoshi
Published: June 2024

Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among patients with breast cancer. We tested the capacity of personal resources (psychological resilience, social support, and process of recovery) for predicting depression, anxiety, and comorbid depression and anxiety (CDA) among such patients using machine learning (ML). We conducted a cross‐sectional survey in Liaoning Province, China, including questions about demographics, COVID‐19′s impact, and personal resources (707 valid responses). In the training set, we used Lasso logistic regression to establish personal resource models. Subsequently, we used six ML methods and a tenfold cross‐validation strategy to establish models combining personal resources, demographics, and COVID‐19 impacts. Findings indicate that in total, 21.9%, 35.1%, and 14.7% of participants showed depression, anxiety, and CDA, respectively. Loneliness, vitality, mental health, bodily pain, and self‐control predicted depression, anxiety, and CDA. Furthermore, general health predicted depression, and physical function predicted anxiety. Demographic and COVID‐19 models were far less predictive than personal resource models (0.505–0.629 vs. 0.826–0.869). Among combined models, the support vector machine model achieved the best prediction (AUC: 0.832–0.873), which was slightly better than the personal resource models. Personal resources features with ML and personal resources can help predict depression, anxiety, and CDA in patients with breast cancer. Accordingly, interventions should target loneliness, bodily pain, vitality, mental health, and self‐control.
What Does It Take to Make an Incel: The Role of Paranoid Thinking, Depression, Anxiety, and Attachment Patterns
Authors: Fontanesi Lilybeth , Marchetti Daniela , Cosi Giulia , Limoncin Erika , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Verrocchio Maria Cristina , Ciocca Giacomo
Published: June 2024

Background. The term “incel” (involuntary celibate) refers to the members of an online subculture, mainly composed of heterosexual men. These individuals find it difficult or impossible to have a romantic and/or sexual partner, and they express extreme anger and resentment toward women, as they hold them accountable for their “inceldom.” In recent years, online and offline acts of violence have been perpetrated by incels, raising concern at social and political levels. This study aims to understand the personal, psychological, and psychopathological variables that may contribute to developing incel traits. Materials and Methods. A total of 800 Italian heterosexual cisgender men were recruited by a link to the survey forwarded on social networks. Participants have completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and a set of psychometric tests to assess incels’ personality traits, attachment patterns, paranoia, anxiety, and depression. Results. Positive correlations among incel personality traits and psychopathological symptoms and insecure attachment were found. Hierarchical regression analysis showed the significant role of paranoid thinking, insecure attachment, depression, and anxiety symptoms in the presence of incels’ personality traits. Conclusion. Therefore, the assessment of these psychopathological aspects could help clinicians, parents, and teachers to early identify young males that can be caught in the inceldom and to develop specific intervention programs to prevent violence.