bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Palliative Care Needs Among Patients With Cancer and Non-Cancer Serious Chronic Diseases: A Comparison Study
Authors: Alnajar Malek , Darawad Muhammad , Khater Wejdan , Alshahwan Rashed , Mosleh Sultan , Nofal Basema , Abdalrahim Maysoon
Published: February 2024

Background

Palliative care (PC) is integral to improving the quality of life and mitigating suffering for individuals with serious illnesses. This interdisciplinary-led study aims to comprehensively evaluate the prevalence of distressing problems and unmet needs among both cancer and non-cancer chronic disease patients and explore their need for PC.

Methods

A cross-sectional, comparative, and multicenter design was conducted, involving 458 patients from eight hospitals, utilizing a self-reported Problems and Needs in Palliative Care-sv questionnaire.

Results

The study included 276 (60.3%) patients with cancer and 182 (39.7%) with non-cancer chronic diseases. Most were 45-64 years old (n = 216, 47.2%). Patients with cancer reported a higher prevalence of physical symptoms, notably pain (n = 240, 87%) and anorexia (n = 192, 69.6%), while non-cancer patients faced more social challenges, including issues in companion relationships (n = 77, 42.3%) and discussing their disease with life companion (n = 78, 42.9%). Unmet needs were prevalent in both groups, with cancer patients having an average of 75.6% (n = 120) unmet needs, predominantly in the information (n = 145, 91.75%) and spiritual domains (n = 123, 77.8%). Non-cancer patients emphasized financial (n = 71, 66.6%) and autonomy (n = 59, 55.0%) problems. Moreover, patients in both groups with severe Charlson Comorbidity Index scores demonstrated significantly higher PC needs across all health domains.

Conclusion

The study highlights the universal demand for comprehensive PC for patients with both cancer and non-cancer chronic diseases. The findings underscore the need for enhanced PC provision, especially for patients with multiple comorbidities. Further research is needed to comprehensively address psychological, social, and spiritual problems in both patient groups.
A Field Study of Carbon Monoxide Levels in Snow Caves During Short-Term Stove Use
Authors: Nielsen Simon Uhl , Karlsen Anders
Published: February 2024

Introduction

While the use of camping stoves in poorly ventilated areas is discouraged, the need to address dehydration challenges in harsh arctic conditions has led to their unconventional use inside snow caves for snow melting, subjecting occupants to unknown carbon monoxide (CO) levels. This study, located at sea level in northeastern Greenland, aimed to assess CO levels and dynamics during short cooking sessions in newly constructed emergency snow caves.

Methods

In 5 snow caves, constructed according to the same design principles by 4 different individuals, a single MSR Whisperlite multifuel burner, primed with ethanol and burning white gas, was used to melt snow. CO concentrations were monitored every minute until all the snow in a 5-L pot was converted to water and CO levels returned to below 10 ppm.

Results

A total of 16 experiments conducted showed that the priming phase generated the highest CO peaks, with a maximum of 120 ppm. Time-weighted averages ranged from 14 ppm to 67 ppm, with trial durations of 15 to 21 min. A single trial with a dirty burner resulted in up to a 10-fold increase in CO levels.

Conclusions

While single, short cooking sessions of less than 10 min burn time in newly constructed snow caves may be tolerated under specific conditions, the study highlighted substantial variation between caves and the importance of using clean burners, emphasizing the need for further research to gain a comprehensive understanding of CO exposure dynamics in snow caves.
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Aloni Roy , Kalron Alon , Goodman Assaf , Ben-Ari Amichai , Yoeli-Shalom Talya , Menascu Shay
Published: February 2024

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological autoimmune disease; pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) represents 5% to 10% of total MS population. Children with POMS may experience attention difficulties due to the disease’s impact on the central nervous system. However, little is known regarding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in POMS, and its relation to cognitive performance.

Methods:

A retrospective case review was conducted using medical records of 66 children and adolescent patients diagnosed with POMS between 2012 and 2021 in a MS center of a tertiary medical center. All patients had undergone routine clinical neurological examinations and had been assessed for a diagnosis of ADHD by a department pediatric neurologist. In addition, sociodemographic data, disease-related variables, and cognitive performance were collected.

Results:

Of the 66 patients, 31 (47%) had a diagnosis of ADHD; 29 (44%) had cognitive impairment. Moreover, we identified four different profiles of POMS: those with only ADHD (17, 26%); only cognitive impairment (15, 23%), ADHD and cognitive impairment (14, 21%), and only POMS (20, 30%). A significant difference in disease duration was found among the four profiles [ F(3,65) = 8.17, p < .001, η² = 0.29], indicating that patients with ADHD and cognitive impairment were characterized by longer disease duration.

Conclusions:

ADHD may be prominently involved in POMS, even during the early stages of the disease and early diagnosis is crucial in order to provide appropriate interventions and support.
Fitness self-presentations on social media and the impact of social support on physical activities
Authors: Kim Hyung-Min
Published: February 2024

Social media serves as one of the primary outlets for self-presentation and receiving social support. Even when individuals portray themselves negatively, it might not necessarily be intended for social disapproval. Conversely, positive self-presentation doesn’t always guarantee social support. This study examined the relationship between positive and negative fitness self-presentations on social media and the reception of supportive feedback. Additionally, it investigated how social support might influence individuals’ self-efficacy, motivation, and participation in physical activities (PA). Participants were fitness app users recruited from a crowdsourcing internet marketplace who had shared their fitness experiences on social media. The results indicated that both types of self-presentation received social support: presenters receiving more social support showed higher self-efficacy for PA. Moreover, fitness posters with higher self-efficacy in PA showed greater motivation for PA. This research suggests that fitness self-presentation allows users to receive social support, fostering confidence and motivation for engaging in PA.
Climate change, critical theory and economic democracy: ‘Small is Beautiful’ and the challenge to growth
Authors: Jervis Robin
Published: February 2024

This article brings ‘Small is Beautiful’ into dialogue with Frankfurt School critical theory to explore reshaping capitalism considering the climate crisis. Nature’s subjugation to capitalist instrumental reason is discussed in terms of Schumacher’s arguments. The article contends that market-based emission reduction schemes privatise Earth’s life-sustaining capacity and underscores how current lifestyles depend on growth whilst commodifying environmental concerns. Capitalism, it is argued, relies on producing a continued demand for new products, requiring continued growth to sustain the ‘treadmill of production’. Technology disrupts markets but not capitalism, further serving accumulation. Economic democracy, as in Schumacher’s argument, is proposed as a solution which redirects economic activity by combining the worker/producer duality of the individual but notes the challenge of changing the growth-based status quo on which we rely despite the existential threat it presents.
A computer-assisted analysis of image representations of obesity: comparing UK news content with the World Obesity Federation Image Bank
Authors: Collins Luke C , Baker Paul
Published: February 2024

Visual representations in news media contribute to the social construction of health concerns such as obesity. Media representations of obesity, however, have been shown to be stigmatizing, focusing on disembodied abdomens or depicting people in ill-fitting clothing, for example. In addition, analyses of image representations have typically focused on small datasets and relied upon inductive thematic coding. This article presents the application of Google Cloud Vision – an automated image annotation tool – to a collection of images collected from articles on obesity in the UK press. In addition, the World Obesity Federation (WOF) has produced an image bank designed to support journalists in offering respectable depictions of people with obesity, alongside its general guidelines for media representations. The authors compare the images from the news with the WOF Image Bank, on the basis of the tags generated by Google Cloud Vision. They use corpus methods to highlight frequently occurring tags that demonstrate similarities and differences between what is represented in the news and what is provided by the WOF. They observe only minimal consistencies between the datasets in that, while both image collections often depict people with obesity in relation to food, the WOF Image Bank provides a greater variety of activities that include food purchase and preparation. In the news, the analysis finds a greater occurrence of ‘body positive’ representations but also a continuation of the focus on abdomens and pinched skin. In the WOF Image Bank, the authors observe more ‘body neutral’ representations, with people engaged in a greater range of recreational activities and socializing with others. The article reflects on the utility of Vision as an automatic tool for capturing salient elements of visual representations in images.
Out-of-pocket costs associated with chronic respiratory diseases in Korean adults
Authors: Park Jun Su , Kim Bomgyeol , Kim Yejin , Lee Sang Gyu , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are a burden on both individuals and society. While previous literature has highlighted the clinical burden and total costs of care, it has not addressed patients’ direct payments. This study aimed to estimate the incremental healthcare costs associated with patients with CRDs, specifically out-of-pocket (OOP) costs.

Methods

We used survey data from the 2019 Korea Health Panel Survey to estimate the total OOP costs of CRDs by comparing the annual hospitalizations, outpatient visits, emergency room visits, and medications of patients with and without CRDs. Generalized linear regression models controlled for differences in other characteristics between groups.

Results

We identified 222 patients with CRDs, of whom 166 were aged 65 years and older. Compared with the non-CRD group, CRD patients spent more on OOP costs (238.3 USD on average). Incremental costs were driven by outpatient visits and medications, which are subject to a coinsurance of 30% or more and may include items not covered by public insurance. Moreover, CRD patients aged 50–64 years incurred the highest incremental costs.

Discussion

The financial burden associated with CRDs is significant, and outpatient visits and medications constitute the largest components of OOP spending. Policymakers should introduce appropriate strategies to reduce CRD-associated burdens.
What are the Experiences of and Interventions for Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse in South Asia? A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Talwar Shivangi , Osorio Carlos , Sagar Rajesh , Appleton Rebecca , Billings Jo
Published: February 2024

Adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) may experience emotional, social, and psychological difficulties, heightened due to the interpersonal nature of harm. Despite the demonstrated effectiveness of trauma-focused treatments in the West, a culturally specific understanding of the needs of and treatments for survivors in South Asia is still in its infancy. The study aimed to systematically review research findings on the mental health impacts of CSA on adult survivors and current treatment approaches and their efficacy and acceptability in South Asia. Seven databases (Scopus, Ovid, CINAHL, ProQuest, EThOS, Google Scholar, and Dogpile) and five peer-reviewed South Asian journals were searched from inception until March 30, 2023. Searches included participants who were adult survivors of CSA of South Asian origin residing in South Asia. Studies on their mental health, different treatments, and the efficacy and acceptability of these treatments were included. Quality assessment tools were used to appraise the quality of included studies. The results were synthesized narratively. A total of 3,362 records were retrieved, and 24 articles were included in the final review. Twenty studies reported mental health impacts of CSA on adult survivors, four studies reported current treatments offered, and two studies were on recovery. However, no study focused on the efficacy or acceptability of the treatments being delivered. Even though the needs of adult CSA survivors in South Asia have been partly identified, there is very little research into the treatments for them.
Not Just a Women Artists’s Show: Curatorial Challenges for the Exhibition of Women Artists in a Public Collection
Authors: Barcenilla Haizea
Published: February 2024

Using a practical case study co-curated by the author and Garazi Ansa as a departing point for reflection, this article addresses a number of questions that arise when organizing exhibitions of female artists in collections. First, it examines the danger of falling into categories such as “women artists.” Second, it discusses the possibilities for the exhibition to have an impact on other activities of the museum, such as collecting. Finally, it proposes alternatives to extend the curatorial purpose on time by other by-practices, such as editing children’s book about the exhibited artists.
Immunotherapeutic Properties of Dexmedetomidine on Pain Management and Cardiovascular Function in Videolaparoscopic Cholecystectomies: A Randomized, Two-Arm, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Silva Gustavo Nascimento , Brandão Virna Guedes , Perez Marcelo Vaz , Sobrinho Sandoval Lage , Villardi João Gabriel de Cerqueira Campos , Sacramento Priscilla Mendonça do , Ribeiro Luiz Claudio Pereira , Alvim Fiorelli Rossano Kepler
Published: February 2024

Background

Laparoscopy represented one of the most innovative surgical techniques approached in the surgery field. Dexmedetomidine association with general anesthesia promotes the response control to trauma by altering the neuroinflammatory reflex, provides better clinical outcomes in the postoperative period and reduces the excessive use of drugs with risk for addiction. This trial aims to evaluate the potential drug treatment of dexmedetomidine on organic function, with the targets in neuroinflammation, perioperative pain control and blood pressure measurements in a medium-sized surgical model.

Methods

Fifty-two patients were randomized in two groups: Sevoflurane and Dexmedetomidine – A (dexmedetomidine infusion [1 μg/kg loading, .2-.5 μg/kg/h thereafter]) vs Sevoflurane and Saline .9% - B. Three blood samples were collected at three times: before surgery, 4 to 6 hours after surgery and 24 hours postoperatively. The primary outcome was inflammatory and endocrine mediators dosage analisys. Finally, we evaluated pain and opioid use as secondary outcomes, also the hemodynamic values.

Results

In Dexmedetomidine group A, a reduction of Interleukin 6 was found during 4-6 hours after surgery. A reduction of IL-10 was noted in the measurement of its values 24 hours after the procedure, with statistical significance. Also, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well heart rate were attenuated, and there was a lower incidence of pain and opioid consumption in the first postoperative hour ( P < .0001) in the anesthetic recovery room.

Conclusions

Dexmedetomidine provided anti-inflammatory activity, sympatholytic effect and analgesia with cardiovascular safety. It reinforces the therapeutic nature of highly selective α2-adrenergic agonists when combined within anesthetic interventions.
Dynamic Computed Tomography of the Distal Radioulnar Joint Versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detecting Foveal Tears of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
Authors: Braig Zachary V. , Dittman Lauren E. , Amrami Kimberly K. , Kakar Sanjeev
Published: February 2024

Background:

Diagnosis of foveal triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears remains difficult. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether dynamic computed tomography (CT) of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) has a higher sensitivity in detecting foveal tears of the TFCC when compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods:

A database query identified all patients above the age of 18 years with suspected foveal TFCC injuries who underwent bilateral dynamic CT imaging of the DRUJ, static 3T MRI, and subsequent wrist arthroscopy. All patients had evidence of foveal tenderness on clinical examination. The imaging results were validated with wrist arthroscopy.

Results:

Twelve patients with a mean age of 31 years (range, 18-53 years) were identified. Eight patients were diagnosed with a complete foveal detachment of the TFCC on wrist arthroscopy. Of the 8 patients with a foveal tear on DRUJ arthroscopy, only 3 had a preoperative physical examination suggestive of DRUJ instability. Magnetic resonance imaging identified foveal injuries in 4 of these 8 patients (sensitivity, 50%), and 3 of these were identified as only partial tears. Dynamic CT identified instability of DRUJ in 6 of 8 patients (sensitivity, 75%). Seven of 8 patients had imaging findings suggestive of a foveal tear when including either MRI or CT imaging (sensitivity, 88%). Of the 4 patients with an intact foveal attachment on arthroscopy, 3 (specificity, 75%) had a stable DRUJ on CT and all 4 (specificity, 100%) had an intact foveal attachment on MRI.

Conclusion:

Sixty-two percent of patients with foveal tears on arthroscopy have a stable DRUJ on clinical examination. When combining MRI and dynamic CT imaging of the DRUJ, the sensitivity of detecting a foveal TFCC tear approaches 88% compared with a gold standard of wrist arthroscopy.
A Novel, Network-Based Approach to Assessing Romantic-Relationship Quality
Authors:   The CORE Lab
Published: February 2024

How should romantic-relationship quality be approached psychometrically? This is a complicated theoretical and methodological challenge that we begin to address through three studies. In Study 1a, we identified 25 distinct romantic-relationship categories among 754 items from 26 romantic-relationship-quality instruments with a weak Jaccard index (0.38), indicating that the scales’ item content was extremely heterogeneous. Study 1b then demonstrated limited structure validity evidence in 43 scale-development-validation articles of 23 of these 26 instruments. Finally, Study 2 surveyed 587 French-speaking participants in a romantic relationship on romantic-relationship quality. Applying a network-based model, we identified four dimensions, three of which are central to relationship quality. The inferences were mostly limited to French-speaking, monogamous, heterosexual women. To resolve challenges detected in the literature, we recommend a multicountry qualitative approach, more diverse sampling, better definitions of romantic-relationship quality, and a dynamic-systems approach to measuring romantic-relationship quality.
Sandhi-based predictability of pitch accent facilitates word recognition in Kansai Japanese speakers
Authors: Ito Aine , Hirose Yuki
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the predictability effects of pitch accent on word recognition using the sandhi rule in Kansai Japanese (KJ). Native KJ speakers and native Tokyo Japanese (TJ) speakers (control group) saw images of four objects while hearing modifier + noun phrases and selected the corresponding image as quickly as possible. The word-initial tone of the noun’s initial mora was predictable or unpredictable based on the tone of the preceding modifier’s final mora in KJ but not in TJ. Experiment 1 found faster reaction times in the predictable conditions compared with the unpredictable conditions in KJ speakers but only when the modifier had an all-low tone sequence. This finding suggests that a modifier-ending that changes following the sandhi rule can function as a reliable cue to constrain an upcoming tone, whereas a modifier-ending tone that remains the same as in the citation form cannot (although the next tone is predictable). Unexpectedly, we found the same effect, albeit weaker, in TJ speakers. Experiment 2 replicated this effect and additionally showed that the facilitation effect was not due to TJ speakers having sufficient exposure to KJ to be familiar with the KJ sandhi rule. We speculate that the effect in TJ speakers is related to a language universal constraint against a sequence of low tones without a high tone within a phonological word, which may urge listeners to listen for a high tone in the upcoming input.
Memory, borders, and justice: The emerging morality competition over the wartime documentary heritage of Jewish refugees in East Asia
Authors: Huang Shu-Mei
Published: February 2024

This article brings attention to the moral aspect of remembering by examining the emerging interest in wartime documentary heritage in East Asia, particularly epitomized in recent competitions and disputes over nomination processes of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Memory of the World. It examines China and Japan’s attempts at pursuing MoW registers and leading the commemoration of Jewish passages in wartime East Asia, through which they wish to gain an international reputation for morality derived from the Holocaust. This study demonstrates that memory politics in East Asia, instead of only reinforcing the image of innocent victims of wars, has moved toward featuring the righteous figures who preserved humanity against violence. It also sheds light on the limits of MoW—an institutional practice that is not designed to accommodate entangled memory but to confine and govern memories.
Formation of vesicovaginal fistula after modified McDonald cerclage placement: a case report with literature review
Authors: AlGhamdi Deama , AlBasri Samera F.
Published: February 2024

Cervical cerclage is a common procedure employed to prevent preterm birth in women with cervical insufficiency. Complications such as injuries to the cervix and bladder, and premature membrane rupture are well-documented, while genitourinary fistulas are a rare occurrence. This article reports a rare case of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) formation in a 27-year-old woman following the placement of a McDonald cervical cerclage. The patient presented with continuous watery vaginal leakage, which began during the last 2 months of her pregnancy. Clinical and cystoscopic examinations revealed the presence of a VVF, which was further confirmed through voiding cystourethrography and perineal magnetic resonance imaging. Notably, the patient had undergone the cerclage procedure 18 months prior to the onset of symptoms, making this case particularly unusual. We believe that the VVF formation was associated with the use of Mersilene tape, which may have slowly eroded through the cervix and subsequently breached the urothelium. This case underscores the importance of considering cerclage-related genitourinary fistulas as potential complications, especially when evaluating and counseling patients who have undergone cervical procedures like the McDonald technique. In conclusion, this case highlights the need for vigilant monitoring and a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with symptoms of genitourinary fistulas after such procedures. Further research and awareness in this area are warranted to better understand the risk factors and mechanisms underlying this unusual complication.
The Role of the Built Environment as a Therapeutic Intervention in Mental Health Facilities: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Rodríguez-Labajos Laura , Kinloch Joanne , Grant Susan , O’Brien Geraldine
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

This systematic literature review synthesizes and assesses empirical research concerning the use of the built environment as a therapeutic intervention in adult mental health inpatient facilities. The review explores the impact of facility design on patient outcomes.

Background:

There is a growing recognition that the built environment in mental health facilities must strike a balance between ensuring safety and providing a therapeutic atmosphere. A review addressing how facility design contributes to this therapeutic environment is warranted.

Methods:

Database searches were conducted in CINAHL, Embase, PsychInfo, PubMed, and Web of Science from inception up to March 10, 2022. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN50) critical appraisal checklists were used to assess the quality of included studies.

Results:

Of the 44 peer-reviewed studies identified from nine countries, several factors emerged as vital for the therapeutic environment in mental health inpatient facilities. These included personal spaces prioritizing privacy and control of the environment, daylight-optimized spaces, versatile communal areas promoting activities and interaction, designated areas for visits and spiritual/contemplative reflection, homelike environments, the inclusion of artwork in units, open nursing stations, and dedicated female-only areas. Yet, there is a need for research yielding stronger evidence-based designs harmonizing with therapeutic needs.

Conclusion:

This review offers initial guidance on designing mental health facilities that foster a therapeutic environment, while highlighting that the influence of facility design on mental health inpatients is considerably under-researched.
Development of Partition-Designed Outdoor Workwear with Optimal Fabric Selection
Authors: Li Hongyan , Mo Yu , Dong Guanliang , Jin Yanping , Zhang Dan , Li Jian , Chen Tao
Published: February 2024

The necessity for anti-heat stress workwear to ensure the safety and performance of outdoor workers in hot, humid environments is clear. Yet, there is a gap in fabric selection techniques that consider multi-criteria decisions and account for the varying functional needs across different body regions. Here, we proposed a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making approach, merging the efficacy coefficient method, analytic hierarchy process, entropy weight, and technique of order preference by similarity to the ideal solution for developing ergonomic modular outdoor workwear. This method is tailored for anti-heat stress workwear, balancing competing functional demands. Initial research involved surveying workwear requirements in terms of human, clothing, and environmental factors, leading to the selection and testing of 15 fabrics for 6 partitioned designs. We established data standardization by the efficacy coefficient method and six evaluation index systems for human body requirements, with analytic hierarchy process and entropy methods determining subjective and objective criteria weights. The technique of order preference by similarity was used to produce the ideal solution then ranking of pre-screened fabrics, culminating in the optimal selection. For validation, three uniform prototypes were developed and tested through sweating manikin experiments and human wear trials to affirm the effectiveness of our approach. The partitioned design method proved more effective for anti-heat stress workwear for outdoor workers compared to existing solutions.
Surface modification using nanostructures and nanocoating to combat the spread of bacteria and viruses: Recent development and challenges
Authors: Patil Deepak
Published: February 2024

Apart from transmission through the respiratory droplet, the surface contact route is another major mode of viral transmission. The recent pandemic is neither the first nor the last; hence, it is a big challenge for a surface engineer to combat the transmission of microbes and viruses through the contact route. In this topical review, we have comprehensively summarized the possible techniques of surface modification for making surfaces antiviral and the respective antiviral mechanisms. Will the anti-biofouling, superhydrophobic, structured surfaces be enough to roll down viruses with water droplets? If so, there could be critical dimensions of nanostructures that need to be fabricated using a precise micro-nano manufacturing method, and the same has been discussed in this review. The surface structuring using functional nanomaterials (copper and copper alloy, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, zinc dioxide, etc.) against different types of viruses and viruses belonging to the coronavirus family has been compared in detail with their merits and demerits. Finally, we foresee that among these surface modification techniques, the nanospike structures combined with an antiviral coating could be the most effective way to combat the transmission of viruses (e.g., COVID-19) through the contact route.
Designing, executing, and publishing replication research: Best practices for successfully taking replication ideas from conceptualization to publication
Authors: Obenauer William G.
Published: February 2024

Management scholars now recognize the important contribution that replication research can make to our field by examining the robustness of scientific findings and boundary conditions of previously tested relationships. Replications can also serve as an important tool for training doctoral students. Despite these strong arguments for conducting replication research, the field has been slow to respond to calls for increased use of replication. In part, this may be influenced by concerns that reviewers will discount the contribution of replication research. A less frequently discussed barrier to replication, however, is that due to a lack of replication training, engaging in this type of research constitutes embarking on unfamiliar territory. In this piece, I attempt to address the need for replication research training by providing researchers with a roadmap for taking replication ideas from conceptualization to publication, drawing on my own experience publishing replications and observations in the evolving replication literature.
“What Works” to Support LGBTQ+ Young People's Mental Health: An Intersectional Youth Rights Approach
Authors: McDermott Elizabeth , Eastham Rachael , Hughes Elizabeth , Johnson Katherine , Davis Stephanie , Pryjmachuk Steven , Mateus Ceu , McNulty Felix , Jenzen Olu
Published: February 2024

Despite overwhelming international evidence of elevated rates of poor mental health in LGBTQ+ youth compared to their cis-heterosexual peers, we know relatively little about effective mental health services for this population group. This study aims to produce the first early intervention model of “what works” to support LGBTQ+ youth with emerging mental health problems. Utilizing a mixed method case study, we collected data across 12 UK mental health service case study sites that involved: ( a) interviews with young people, parents, and mental health practitioners (n = 93); ( b) documentary analysis; ( c) nonparticipant observation. The data analysis strategy was theoretical using the “explanation-building” analytical technique. Our analysis suggests an intersectional youth rights approach with 13 principles that must be enacted to provide good mental health services as advocated by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and World Health Organization. This approach should address the multiple forms of marginalization and stigmatization that LGBTQ+ youth may experience, enable informed independent decision-making, and uphold the right to freedom of safe self-expression. A rights-based approach to mental health services for LGBTQ+ young people is not prominent. This needs to change if we are to tackle this mental health inequality and improve the mental well-being of LGBTQ+ youth worldwide.
Long-term treatment with rilzabrutinib in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kuter David J. , Mayer Jiri , Efraim Merlin , Bogdanov Lachezar H. , Baker Ross , Kaplan Zane , Garg Mamta , Trněný Marek , Choi Philip Y. , Jansen A. J. Gerard , McDonald Vickie , Bird Robert , Gumulec Jaromir , Kostal Milan , Gernsheimer Terry , Ghanima Waleed , Daak Ahmed , Cooper Nichola
Published: February 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease associated with autoantibody-mediated platelet destruction and impaired platelet production, resulting in thrombocytopenia and a predisposition to bleeding. The ongoing, global phase 1/2 study showed that rilzabrutinib, a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor specifically developed to treat autoimmune disorders, could be an efficacious and well-tolerated treatment for ITP. Clinical activity, durability of response, and safety were evaluated in 16 responding patients who continued rilzabrutinib 400 mg twice daily in the long-term extension (LTE) study. At LTE entry, the median platelet count was 87 × 109/L in all patients, 68 × 109/L in those who had rilzabrutinib monotherapy (n = 5), and 156 × 109/L in patients who received concomitant ITP medication (thrombopoietin-receptor agonists and/or corticosteroids, n = 11). At a median duration of treatment of 478 days (range, 303-764), 11 of 16 patients (69%) continued to receive rilzabrutinib. A platelet count of ≥50 × 109/L was reported in 93% of patients for more than half of their monthly visits. The median percentage of LTE weeks with platelet counts ≥30 × 109/L and ≥50 × 109/L was 100% and 88%, respectively. Five patients discontinued concomitant ITP therapy and maintained median platelet counts of 106 × 109/L at 3 to 6 months after stopping concomitant ITP therapy. Adverse events related to treatment were grade 1 or 2 and transient, with no bleeding, thrombotic, or serious adverse events. With continued rilzabrutinib treatment in the LTE, platelet responses were durable and stable over time with no new safety signals. This trial is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03395210 and www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu as EudraCT 2017-004012-19.
Reinfusion of CD19 CAR T cells for relapse prevention and treatment in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Myers Regina M. , Devine Kaitlin , Li Yimei , Lawrence Sophie , Leahy Allison Barz , Liu Hongyan , Vernau Lauren , Callahan Colleen , Baniewicz Diane , Kadauke Stephan , McGuire Regina , Wertheim Gerald B. , Kulikovskaya Irina , Gonzalez Vanessa E. , Fraietta Joseph A. , DiNofia Amanda M. , Hunger Stephen P. , Rheingold Susan R. , Aplenc Richard , June Carl H. , Grupp Stephan A. , Wray Lisa , Maude Shannon L.
Published: February 2024

Relapse after CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–modified T cells remains a substantial challenge. Short CAR T-cell persistence contributes to relapse risk, necessitating novel approaches to prolong durability. CAR T-cell reinfusion (CARTr) represents a potential strategy to reduce the risk of or treat relapsed disease after initial CAR T-cell infusion (CARTi). We conducted a retrospective review of reinfusion of murine (CTL019) or humanized (huCART19) anti–CD19/4-1BB CAR T cells across 3 clinical trials or commercial tisagenlecleucel for relapse prevention (peripheral B-cell recovery [BCR] or marrow hematogones ≤6 months after CARTi), minimal residual disease (MRD) or relapse, or nonresponse to CARTi. The primary endpoint was complete response (CR) at day 28 after CARTr, defined as complete remission with B-cell aplasia. Of 262 primary treatments, 81 were followed by ≥1 reinfusion (investigational CTL019, n = 44; huCART19, n = 26; tisagenlecleucel, n = 11), representing 79 patients. Of 63 reinfusions for relapse prevention, 52% achieved CR (BCR, 15/40 [38%]; hematogones, 18/23 [78%]). Lymphodepletion was associated with response to CARTr for BCR (odds ratio [OR], 33.57; P = .015) but not hematogones (OR, 0.30; P = .291). The cumulative incidence of relapse was 29% at 24 months for CR vs 61% for nonresponse to CARTr (P = .259). For MRD/relapse, CR rate to CARTr was 50% (5/10), but 0/8 for nonresponse to CARTi. Toxicity was generally mild, with the only grade ≥3 cytokine release syndrome (n = 6) or neurotoxicity (n = 1) observed in MRD/relapse treatment. Reinfusion of CTL019/tisagenlecleucel or huCART19 is safe, may reduce relapse risk in a subset of patients, and can reinduce remission in CD19+ relapse.
Long-term radiological and pulmonary function abnormalities at 3 years after COVID-19 hospitalisation: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Han Xiaoyu , Chen Lu , Guo Liyan , Wu Linxia , Alwalid Osamah , Liu Jie , Zheng Yuting , Chen Leqing , Wu Wenlong , Li Hanting , Luo Qinyue , Zhao Huangxuan , Zhang Lijie , Bai Yaowei , Sun Bo , Sun Tao , Gui Yuxi , Nie Tong , Chen Lei , Yang Fan , Fan Yanqing , Shi Heshui , Zheng Chuansheng
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal progression of residual lung abnormalities (ground-glass opacities, reticulation and fibrotic-like changes) and pulmonary function at 3 years following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

This prospective, longitudinal cohort study enrolled COVID-19 survivors who exhibited residual lung abnormalities upon discharge from two hospitals. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 6 months, 12 months, 2 years and 3 years post-discharge, and included pulmonary function tests, 6-min walk distance (6MWD), chest computed tomography (CT) scans and symptom questionnaires. Non-COVID-19 controls were retrospectively recruited for comparative analysis.

Results

728 COVID-19 survivors and 792 controls were included. From 6 months to 3 years, there was a gradual improvement in reduced diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO<80% predicted: 49%versus38%; p=0.001), 6MWD (496versus510 m; p=0.002) and residual lung abnormalities (46%versus36%; p<0.001), regardless of disease severity. Patients with residual lung abnormalities at 3 years more commonly had respiratory symptoms (32%versus16%; p<0.001), lower 6MWD (494versus510 m; p=0.003) and abnormalDLCO(57%versus27%; p<0.001) compared with those with complete resolution. Compared with controls, the proportions ofDLCOimpairment (38%versus17%; p<0.001) and respiratory symptoms (23%versus2.2%; p<0.001) were significantly higher in the matched COVID-19 survivors at the 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Most patients exhibited improvement in radiological abnormalities and pulmonary function over time following COVID-19. However, more than a third continued to have persistent lung abnormalities at the 3-year mark, which were associated with respiratory symptoms and reduced diffusion capacity.
Investigating the synthesis parameters of durian skin-based activated carbon and the effects of silver nanocatalysts on its recyclability in methylene blue removal
Authors: Amir Dzilal , Nasaruddin Ricca Rahman , Yousefi Maryam , Mastuli Mohd Sufri , Sulaiman Sarina , Alam Md. Zahangir , Engliman Nurul Sakinah
Published: February 2024

Activated carbon (AC) is the most common and economically viable adsorbent for eliminating toxic organic pollutants, particularly dyes, from wastewater. Its widespread adoption is due to the simplicity and affordable production of AC, wherein low-cost agricultural wastes, such as durian skin can be used. Converting durian skin into AC presents a promising solution for its solid waste management. However, inherent drawbacks such as its non-selectivity, relatively short lifespan and laborious replacement and recovery processes diminish the overall efficacy of AC as an adsorbent. To address these challenges, the immobilisation of metal nanocatalysts such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is one of the emerging solutions. AgNPs can facilitate the regeneration of the adsorption sites of AC by catalysing the conversion of the adsorbed dyes into harmless and simpler molecules. Nevertheless, the immobilisation of AgNPs on AC surface can be challenging as the pore size formation of AC is hard to control and the nanomaterials can easily leach out from the AC surface. Hence, in this study, we synthesised AC from durian skin (DS) and immobilised AgNPs on the AC-DS surface. Then, we used methylene blue (MB) removal for studying the adsorption capability and recyclability of the AC-DS. In the synthesis of AC-DS, the influences of reaction temperature, activating agent, and acid-washing to its capability in adsorptive removal of  MB in solution were first determined. It was found that 400 °C, KOH activating agent, and the presence of acid-washing (50% of HNO3) resulted in AC-DS with the highest percentage of MB removal (91.49 ± 2.86%). Then, the overall results from three recyclability experiments demonstrate that AC-DS with immobilised AgNPs exhibited higher MB removal after several cycles (up to 6 cycles) as compared to AC-DS alone, proving the benefit of AgNPs for the recyclability of AC-DS. We also found that AgNPs/Citrate@AC-DS exhibited better adsorption capability and recyclability as compared to AgNPs/PVP@AC-DS indicating significant influences of type of stabilisers in this study. This study also demonstrates that the presence of more oxygen-containing functional groups (i.e., carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups) after acid-washing on AC-DS and in citrate molecules, has greater influence to the performance of AC-DS and AgNPs/Citrate@AC-DS in the removal of MB as compared to the influences of their BET surface area and pore structure. The findings in this study have the potential to promote and serve as a guideline for harnessing the advantages of nanomaterials, such as AgNPs, to enhance the properties of AC for environmental applications.
Kinome and phosphoproteome reprogramming underlies the aberrant immune responses in critically ill COVID-19 patients
Authors: Kaneko Tomonori , Ezra Sally , Abdo Rober , Voss Courtney , Zhong Shanshan , Liu Xuguang , Hovey Owen , Slessarev Marat , Van Nynatten Logan Robert , Ye Mingliang , Fraser Douglas D. , Li Shawn Shun-Cheng
Published: February 2024

SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers extensive host immune reactions, leading to severe diseases in certain individuals. However, the molecular basis underlying the excessive yet non-productive immune responses in severe COVID-19 remains incompletely understood. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proteome and phosphoproteome in sepsis patients positive or negative for SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as healthy subjects, using quantitative mass spectrometry. Our findings demonstrate dynamic changes in the COVID-19 PBMC proteome and phosphoproteome during disease progression, with distinctive protein or phosphoprotein signatures capable of distinguishing longitudinal disease states. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection induces a global reprogramming of the kinome and phosphoproteome, resulting in defective adaptive immune response mediated by the B and T lymphocytes, compromised innate immune responses involving the SIGLEC and SLAM family of immunoreceptors, and excessive cytokine-JAK-STAT signaling. In addition to uncovering host proteome and phosphoproteome aberrations caused by SARS-CoV-2, our work recapitulates several reported therapeutic targets for COVID-19 and identified numerous new candidates, including the kinases PKG1, CK2, ROCK1/2, GRK2, SYK, JAK2/3, TYK2, DNA-PK, PKCδ, and the cytokine IL-12.
Treatment effect estimation using the propensity score in clinical trials with historical control
Authors: Kanamori Saki , Takeuchi Masahiro
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical trials assessing new treatment effects require a control group to compare the pure treatment effects. However, in clinical trials on regenerative medicine, rare diseases, and intractable diseases, it may be ethically difficult to assign participants to the control group. In recent years, the use of historical control data has attracted attention as a method for supplementing the number of participants in the control group. When combining historical control data with new randomized controlled trial (RCT) data, the assessment of heterogeneity using outcome data is not sufficient. Therefore, several statistical methods that consider participant outcomes and baseline characteristics, including the propensity score (PS) method have been proposed.

Methods

We propose a new method considering “information on whether the data are RCT data or not” in the PS model when combining the RCT and historical control data. The performance of the proposed method in estimating the treatment effect is evaluated using simulation data.

Results

When the distribution of covariates is similar between the RCT and historical control data, not much difference in performance is found between the proposed and conventional methods to estimate the treatment effect. On the other hand, when the distribution of covariates is not similar between the two kinds of data, the proposed method shows higher performance.

Conclusions

Even when it is not known whether RCT and historical control data are similar, the proposed PS model is useful to estimate the treatment effect appropriately in RCTs using historical control data.
The experience of feeling old after a fragility fracture
Authors: Sale Joanna E.M. , Frankel Lucy , Bogoch Earl , Carlin-Coleman Gabriel , Hui Sean , Saini Jessica , McKinlay Jennifer , Meadows Lynn
Published: February 2024

Background

There has been little exploration of the effect of fragility fractures on patient perceptions of their age. The common assumption is that fractures “happen to old people”. In individuals with a fragility fracture, our objective was to explore the experience of feeling old after sustaining a fragility fracture.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data from 145 community-dwelling women and men participating in six qualitative primary studies was conducted relying on a phenomenological approach. Participants were English-speaking, 45 years and older, who had sustained a recent fragility fracture or reported a history of previous fragility fractures. Data for the analysis included direct statements about feeling old as well any discussions relevant to age post-fracture.

Results

We highlight two interpretations based on how individuals with a history of fragility fracture talked about age: (1) Participants described feeling old post-fracture. Several participants made explicit statements about being “old”. However, the majority of participants discussed experiences post-fracture that implied that they felt old and had resigned themselves to being old. This appeared to entail a shift in thinking and perception of self that was permanent and had become a part of their identity; and (2) Perceptions of increasing age after sustaining a fracture were reinforced by health care providers, family, and friends.

Conclusions

Our findings challenge the notion that fractures “happen to old people” and suggest that fractures can make people feel old. Careful consideration of how bone health messages are communicated to patients post-fracture by health care providers is warranted. (Word Count: 248)