bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refracting Eurocentrism, operationalizing complicity: The Swiss Sonderfall as a vantage point
Authors: Hilbrandt Hanna , Ren Julie
Published: July 2022

Critiques of the parochialism of urban theory have resulted in appeals for more global urban studies. Yet, the fruitful responses to postcolonial work frequently remain sequestered, reflecting the persistence of Eurocentrism as a burden shouldered largely by the so-called “South”. This paper aims to shift the work implied by critiques of Eurocentrism – from the labor of translation to the chore of representation – to those whom Eurocentrism serves. We argue that recognizing the ways academics are always already complicit in Eurocentrism by working within the academy is an important starting point. Can the functions of complicity also serve to redistribute the burdens of redress and allow cultivating new possibilities to respond? To understand the functions of complicity, we take inspiration from the historical position of Switzerland on “the margins” of colonialism. Scrutinizing the history of a formally non-colonizing country reveals multiple forms of taking part in, benefitting from and assisting in colonial efforts. Applying these learnings to institutional and epistemological possibilities of working with complicity in the academy, we interrogate the potentials and limits of these functions to address the reproduction of Eurocentrism.
Making the Invisible Visible: Using a Contextual Measurement Approach to Identify Children With Social-Emotional and Behavioral Needs in Preschool Classrooms
Authors: Bulotsky-Shearer Rebecca J. , Carter Clopêt Tracy M. , Williford Amanda P. , Alamos Pilar , Hasbrouck Sadie
Published: July 2022

Best practices in early childhood include using measures to identify children’s social-emotional and behavioral needs within routine, naturalistic preschool contexts. Aligned with best practices, we examined the combined utility of two contextual measures, a teacher report and a direct observation of classroom behavior, in the context of interactions with teachers, peers, and learning tasks. Latent profile analysis ( N = 527 children) identified four profile groups: (a) well-adjusted and positively engaged, (b) high externalizing and conflict engagement, (c) adequately adjusted/mildly disengaged in learning tasks, and (d) elevated internalizing behavior and low engagement. Children’s profile classification was associated concurrently with emotion regulation and social competence. Teachers independently reported on children’s social-emotional or academic concerns. Teachers’ reports of social-emotional concerns comported for children in the externalizing profile but did not comport for the internalizing group. Findings illustrate the utility of a contextual assessment approach for early identification and intervention, particularly for children who display internalizing behavior.
Correlation of SARS-CoV-2 infection severity with ABO blood groups and RhD antigen: a case-control study
Authors: Omer Nazaneen Akbar , Al-Bajalan Sarwer Jamal , Rahman Heshu Sulaiman , Mohammed Maryam Salih
Published: July 2022

Objective

The role of ABO types and RhD antigen in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity has been investigated in several recent studies. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify the relationship of ABO and RhD types with symptomatic COVID-19 disease and determine the groups associated with an increased risk of hospitalization.

Methods

This observational case-control study was performed in 530 Iraqi-Kurdish patients with COVID-19. Among them, 184 were severe cases that required hospitalization, while 346 were mild to moderate cases that were treated at home. ABO and RhD antigen groups were compared between cases and 1698 control records from 1 year before the pandemic. The diagnosis of COVID-19 was based on real-time polymerase chain reaction tests and high-resolution chest computed tomography scans with the typical clinical presentation.

Results

There were no significant differences in ABO and RhD antigen distributions between the COVID-19 cases and non-COVID controls. No ABO group was associated with the risk of hospitalization as a marker of the severity of infection.

Conclusions

There was no significant association between symptomatic COVID-19 disease and any ABO group or RhD antigen type. No impact of ABO groups on hospitalization was documented.
Progress of studies on satellite-based terrestrial vegetation production models in China
Authors: Yuan Wenping , Lin Shangrong , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2022

Vegetation production is an important variable in terrestrial ecosystems, playing crucial roles in sustaining carbon balance, reducing atmospheric CO2 concentration, and mitigating global climate change. Satellite-based models, which benefit from spatially and temporally continuous remote sensing observations of vegetation growth conditions, are widely used for quantifying regional and global vegetation production. Satellite-based vegetation production models were initially simple statistical models, but later, process-based light use efficiency models were developed. The latest models are based on the relationship between solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence and vegetation production. An increasing number of satellite-based studies are being conducted by Chinese scientists, who are developing and implementing plant production models, particularly by self-developing a number of light consumption efficiency models and establishing a long-term worldwide dataset of vegetation production. Furthermore, Chinese scientists have investigated the spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation using diverse models, significantly improving our understanding of terrestrial functions and structures. However, current models and estimation techniques need further improvement, and Chinese scientists had the opportunity to improve model capability and our understanding of vegetation production patterns and their regulating elements.
Open government data initiatives in the Maghreb countries: An empirical analysis
Authors: Elsawy Elsayed , Shehata Ahmed
Published: July 2022

This article explores the practices followed in preserving and sharing data in open data portals in the Maghreb countries, and assesses whether their structure and organization are consistent with the objectives of these portals. A set of characteristics that must be available in open data portals was developed and then used as a framework for analysing the structure and organization of open data portals in the Maghreb countries. The study adopted a content analysis approach to analyse the content of five open data portals (in Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco and Mauritania). The findings indicate that open data portals in the Maghreb countries provide data from different ministries, local communities and organizations. The findings also indicate that the open government data portals in Algeria and Morocco lack translation of content into English, which affects non-Arabic-language speakers. Moreover, the adoption of open data policies is still in its early stages. The study’s originality lies in the fact that it is the first study that focuses on the countries of the Arab Maghreb and the extent of their progress in adopting and making open data available.
Sleep Quality Predicts Functional Disability in Older Adults with Low Back Pain: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Oliveira Sabrina Dias , Pinto Rafael Z. , Gobbi Cynthia , Fernandes Guilherme L. , Dokkedal-Silva Vinícius , Lemes Ítalo Ribeiro , Andersen Monica L. , Tufik Sergio , Lorenconi Roselene Modolo Regueiro , Morelhão Priscila K.
Published: July 2022

Low back pain (LBP) and sleep quality are two very prevalent complaints in the older population. However, little is known about the prognostic relationship between sleep quality and disability in older adults with LBP. The aim of this study was to examine the association between sleep quality and disability in older adults with LBP. This was a longitudinal study over a 6-month period. Older adults with LBP in the last 12 weeks and who had preserved cognitive functions were recruited. The questionnaires used were the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. At baseline, we collected information on demographic/anthropometric variables, cognitive status, depression, daytime sleepiness, and comorbidities. Linear regression adjusted for potential covariates were performed. Poor sleep at baseline predicted higher disability after 6 months [β = 0.30 (CI95%:0.07 to 0.55)]. Our results support the existence of an important relationship between sleep and disability in older adults with LBP.
Financial Contributions and Experiences of Non-Spousal, Employed Family Caregivers
Authors: Keita Fakeye Maningbè B. , Samuel Laura J. , Wolff Jennifer L.
Published: July 2022

The economic impacts of caring for an older adult may be amplified for employed family and unpaid caregivers. We examine out-of-pocket spending among employed, retired, and unemployed caregivers. Among employed caregivers, we identify correlates of spending and assess whether spending and work productivity loss contribute to financial burden. Analyses use the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and National Study of Caregiving. We find that employed caregivers incur more out-of-pocket spending on caregiving than retired and unemployed counterparts. Employed caregivers spending more than $500 out-of-pocket provide more hours of care and assist older adults with greater impairment. Among employed family caregivers, caregiver and care recipient Medicaid enrollment, spending, and work productivity loss are associated with financial burden. Findings suggest that caregiving exacerbates economic well-being among employed caregivers, particularly for those with socioeconomic vulnerability.
Effect of the university’s entrepreneurial orientation on the academic’s entrepreneurial propensity
Authors: Bazan Carlos , Shaikh Arifusalam , Gillespie Katie , Rushat Tajrian , Radeef Yousuf , Yap Simon , Finn Chantel
Published: July 2022

This article addresses the following research question: does the entrepreneurial orientation of a university influence the entrepreneurial propensity of its academics? To answer this question, the authors conducted a two-phase study. First, based on a literature review of the entrepreneurial university and Nelles and Vorley’s theoretical framework on entrepreneurial architecture, they developed a conceptual model and research instrument to assess academics’ perceptions of the characteristics most likely attributed to the entrepreneurial university and their effects on an academic’s entrepreneurial propensity. Second, the authors used the research instrument to conduct a pilot study of the effect of a Canadian university’s entrepreneurial orientation on its academics’ entrepreneurial propensity. The pilot study, using the proposed methodology with detailed accounts of collecting, analyzing and interpreting the data, suggests that the proposed methodology is appropriate for measuring the relationship alluded to in the research question. Furthermore, the methodology can help university leadership in designing possible interventions to correct identified deficiencies in the university’s entrepreneurial architecture to stimulate academic entrepreneurship on campus.
Modeling of a port fuel injection spark-ignition engine with different compression ratios using methanol blends with the response surface methodology
Authors: Yesilyurt Murat Kadir , Uslu Samet , Yaman Hayri
Published: July 2022

In this study, the response surface methodology was applied to verify the optimum compression ratio, methanol percentage, and engine load in order to obtain the best levels of engine response that will occur when using methanol (0, 10, and 20% by vol.) in a spark-ignition engine under different compression ratio (6.0:1, 8.0:1, and 10.0:1) and engine load (8, 10, and 12 kg) conditions. A response surface methodology aided by analysis of variance was created using the three-factor and three-level central composite full design with the results of the experiment. With the created model, optimum methanol percentage, compression ratio, and engine load levels corresponding to the finest brake thermal efficiency, brake-specific fuel consumption, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon, and nitrogen oxide emission levels were determined. According to the optimization results, the optimum methanol percentage, compression ratio, and engine load were found to be 10.5%, 6.0:1, and 12 kg, respectively. Hydrocarbon, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, brake thermal efficiency , and brake-specific fuel consumption corresponding to optimum operating conditions were determined as 63.568 ppm, 840.643 ppm, 0.365%, 14.059%, 28.199%, and 0.286 kg/kWh, respectively. To test the reliability of the response surface methodology results, experiments with optimal methanol, compression ratio, and engine load were carried out and compared with the response surface methodology findings. As a result, it can be said that the response surface methodology is a successful application for the optimization of a spark-ignition engine using methanol as an alternative fuel with different engine parameters.
Hsa_circ_0000285 knockdown inhibits the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by sponging miR-582-3p to regulate CCNB2 expression
Authors: Huang Jing , Zhou Hongchi , Diao Yun , Yang Zhiming
Published: July 2022

Aim

Hsa_circ_0000285, a novel circular RNA, has been proven to extensively take part in the pathogenesis of numerous tumors. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), very little is known about hsa_circ_0000285 until now. Hence, this research aims to determine hsa_circ_0000285’s functional role and underlying mechanisms in HCC.

Methods

The expressions of miR-582-3p, hsa_circ_000028, and cyclin B2 (CCNB2) among the HCC cells and tumor samples were determined by performing western blotting and qRT-PCR analyses. The impacts of hsa_circ_000028 on the proliferative and migratory abilities of HCC cells were examined through the execution of CCK-8 and wound-healing assays. Meanwhile, the expressions of the proteins Bcl-2 and Bax were detected via western blotting. Tumor xenograft models were established to examine how hsa_circ_000028 functions during the mediation of HCC tumor growth in vivo. RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter experiments were performed for the validation of the interactions of miR-582-3p, hsa_circ_000028, and CCNB2 with each other.

Results

Elevated hsa_circ_0000285 and CCNB2 expressions, and a decreased miR-582-3p expression were observed among the HCC cell lines and tumors. Hsa_circ_0000285 bound to miR-582-3p competitively to improve CCNB2 levels. Silencing of hsa_circ_0000285 promoted apoptosis and repressed proliferation and migration among HCC cells. Moreover, silencing hsa_circ_0000285 also impeded the growth of HCC tumors in vivo. Inhibiting hsa_circ_0000285 or CCNB2 reversed the miR-582-3p-knockdown-mediated promotion of malignant HCC cell phenotypes.

Conclusion

Our study has demonstrated that hsa_circ_0000285 fosters the development of malignant HCC cells phenotypes through the modulation of the miR-582-3p/CCNB2 axis. Thus, these results suggest that hsa_circ_0000285 is a prospective target for HCC treatment.
A comparison of two frameworks for multi-state modelling, applied to outcomes after hospital admissions with COVID-19
Authors: Jackson Christopher H , Tom Brian DM , Kirwan Peter D , Mandal Sema , Seaman Shaun R , Kunzmann Kevin , Presanis Anne M , De Angelis Daniela
Published: July 2022

We compare two multi-state modelling frameworks that can be used to represent dates of events following hospital admission for people infected during an epidemic. The methods are applied to data from people admitted to hospital with COVID-19, to estimate the probability of admission to intensive care unit, the probability of death in hospital for patients before and after intensive care unit admission, the lengths of stay in hospital, and how all these vary with age and gender. One modelling framework is based on defining transition-specific hazard functions for competing risks. A less commonly used framework defines partially-latent subpopulations who will experience each subsequent event, and uses a mixture model to estimate the probability that an individual will experience each event, and the distribution of the time to the event given that it occurs. We compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two frameworks, in the context of the COVID-19 example. The issues include the interpretation of the model parameters, the computational efficiency of estimating the quantities of interest, implementation in software and assessing goodness of fit. In the example, we find that some groups appear to be at very low risk of some events, in particular intensive care unit admission, and these are best represented by using ‘cure-rate’ models to define transition-specific hazards. We provide general-purpose software to implement all the models we describe in the flexsurv R package, which allows arbitrarily flexible distributions to be used to represent the cause-specific hazards or times to events.
Optimisation of active SHM system based on optimal number and placement of piezoelectric transducers
Authors: Daraji Ali H , Ye Jianqiao , Hale Jack M
Published: July 2022

This paper concerns optimal placement and number of discrete piezoelectric macro fibre composite (MFC) sensors to optimise SHM systems. Its novelty lies in a two-stage placement methodology for discrete piezoelectric transducers, with fitness and objective functions to optimise the location and number of discrete piezoelectric sensors in order to reduce the cost and complexity of data processing and increase the effectiveness in damage detection. The maximisation of sensor voltage amplitude at multiple modes of vibration and the average of sensor normal damage index [Formula: see text] measured for several plates artificially cracked at different positions and orientations are proposed as objective functions to optimise the locations and the number of efficient piezoelectric sensors. A non-normalised root-mean-square deviation [Formula: see text] is introduced in this study in place of the conventional normalised [Formula: see text] to assess the degree of damage and sensor effectiveness. Furthermore, normal damage indices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] normalised to 100% are proposed as the fitness functions. The placement methodology is utilised and verified for stiffened and unstiffened plates; stiffeners are used to break the dynamic symmetry and increase plate complexity. The performance of the placement methodology is tested for a healthy and 12 damaged plates to optimise SHM system based on the maximisation of sensor voltage and average normal damage index [Formula: see text] as objective functions. The results show that the placement methodology is efficient in determining the optimum number and placement of piezoelectric sensors at a low computational effort. The optimum placement of two piezoelectric sensors can efficiently monitor the crack’s initiation at different positions and multiple modes of vibration. The optimal placement and number of sensors have a positive impact on the cost, data acquisition and processing of the active SHM system
Theoretical analysis and experimental research on characteristics of the lubricating gas film of a planar restrictor in the orifice-throttling effect
Authors: Shen Xiaoyan , Liu Yuhang , Yu Jing , Yin Jianlong , Li Dongsheng
Published: July 2022

When a restrictor is coupled with groove microstructures, the analysis on the flow-field status of the restrictor’s lubricating gas film becomes more difficult, especially in theoretical calculation. In this study, a single-orifice planar restrictor with double-ring-grooves was researched. First, the theoretical mathematical analysis and calculation of the pressure and temperature distributions of the lubricating gas film, were conducted based on the proposed analysis method of proportional assignation and resynthesis (PAR) along with the finite difference method. Then, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations based on the simple model were conducted, the results of which show the agreement with the theoretical analysis. Finally and more importantly, experiments were carried out well by using a self-made micro-flow field parameter measurement device (MFFPMD), which verifies the theoretical calculation and the CFD simulation results. The PAR method can be applied in other structures of restrictors, and the experimental study could facilitate the research of the stability of the lubricating gas film.
A comparatively numerical investigation on heat transfer behavior of different materials used for internal combustion engines
Authors: Saxena Ambuj , Dwivedi Shashi Prakash , Srivastava Ashish Kumar , Sharma Abhishek , Yadav Vinod Kumar , Srinivas Krovvidi , Kaushik Abhishek , Kotkunde Nitin , Sharma Shubham
Published: July 2022

The aluminum and magnesium alloys are mostly used in the development of internal combustion engines. In the present investigation, an aluminum based composite material has been developed by utilizing the hybrid casting technique with the composition of Al + 7.5 wt.% Si3N4 + 5 wt.% MgO. Further, a comparative numerical analysis has been performed on the four-cylinder diesel internal combustion engine with the help of finite element analysis code Abaqus. The numerical investigation was performed and compared for the three materials Al + 7.5 wt.% Si3N4 + 5 wt.% MgO (Material 1), WE43A magnesium alloy (Material 2), and Al356 aluminum alloy (Material 3) based on temperature distribution and heat flux. The results revealed that the developed composite material (Material 1) shows a good temperature at the core of the four-cylinder diesel engine which supports the combustion process. Further, it shows the minimum temperature at the cylinder wall in both directions (along the length and width) which supports the cooling system. Further, Material 1 shows the lowest heat flux near the cylinder wall which is a more desirable characteristic for the internal combustion engine. Hence the developed material can replace Material 1 and Material 2 which are the alloys of aluminum and magnesium alloys.
Reframing the classics?
Authors: Edwards Zophia
Published: July 2022

A number of recent works in sociology call for the decolonization of the discipline. Colonialism and Modern Social Theory adds a critical intervention to this recent body of work by deconstructing the theories that have been canonized in North American and European social theory, and meticulously laying out the systematic erasure of colonialism and imperialism from their concepts and analytical categories. This review focuses on the introductory chapter and overall scope of the book, and draws attention to several potential areas for fruitful future engagement that this text inspires.
Social capital, food insecurity, and health outcomes in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Choi Y , Kim HH
Published: July 2022

Aims:

The purpose of this study was first, to investigate the harmful effects of food insufficiency on health outcomes – self-rated health (SRH) and self-assessed depressive symptoms – during the COVID-19 pandemic and, second, to test whether these effects fluctuated across the US in terms of state-level social capital.

Methods:

Data were drawn from the Census Household Pulse Survey (fielded between April 2020 and February 2021) consisting of community-dwelling American adults (N = 1.5M+). Social capital measures were taken from the ‘Social Capital Project’ sponsored by the US Congress. We estimated three-level mixed effects models to analyze multiple waves of repeated cross-sectional surveys.

Results:

Post-COVID-19 food insufficiency was significantly negatively associated with SRH and positively associated depression, adjusting for controls including food insufficiency prior to the onset of the pandemic. These relationships were also more pronounced in areas with higher aggregate social capital.

Conclusions:

The health burdens of the new coronavirus disease have fallen disproportionately on the economically marginalized, as measured by food insufficiency. Contrary to the conventional literature, living in a state with a greater stock of social capital worsened its health effects.
The Role of Ingenane Diterpenes in Cancer Therapy: From Bioactive Secondary Compounds to Small Molecules
Authors: Alves Ana Laura V. , da Silva Luciane S. , Faleiros Camila A. , Silva Viviane A. O. , Reis Rui M.
Published: July 2022

Diterpenes are a class of critical taxonomic markers of the Euphorbiaceae family, representing small compounds (eg, molecules) with a wide range of biological activities and multi-target therapeutic potential. Diterpenes can exert different activities, including antitumor and multi-drug resistance-reversing activities, and antiviral, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects, mainly due to their great structural diversity. In particular, one polycyclic skeleton has been highlighted: ingenane. Besides this natural diterpene, promising polycyclic skeletons may be submitted to chemical modification—by in silico approaches, chemical reactions, or biotransformation—putatively providing more active analogs (eg, ingenol derivatives), which are currently under pre-clinical investigation. This review outlines the current mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic implications of ingenol diterpenes as small cancer molecules.
Coaching as a Model for Facilitating the Performance, Learning, and Development of Palliative Care Nurses
Authors: Costeira Cristina , Dixe Maria A. , Querido Ana , Vitorino Joel , Laranjeira Carlos
Published: July 2022

Palliative care nurses experience huge pressures, which only increased with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A reflection on the new demands for nursing care should include an evaluation of which evidence-based practices should be implemented in clinical settings. This paper discusses the impacts and challenges of incorporating coaching strategies into palliative care nursing. Evidence suggests that coaching strategies can foster emotional self-management and self-adjustment to daily life among nurses. The current challenge is incorporating this expanded knowledge into nurses’ coping strategies. Coaching strategies can contribute to nurses’ well-being, empower them, and consequently bring clinical benefits to patients, through humanized care focused on the particularities of end-of-life patients and their families.
Total marrow and lymphoid irradiation as conditioning in haploidentical transplant with posttransplant cyclophosphamide
Authors: Al Malki Monzr M. , Palmer Joycelynne , Tsai Ni-Chun , Mokhtari Sally , Hui Susanta , Tsai Weimin , Aldoss Ibrahim , Ali Haris , Aribi Ahmed , Cao Thai , Mei Mathew , Sandhu Karamjeet S. , Siddiqi Tanya , Forman Stephen J. , Nakamura Ryotaro , Marcucci Guido , Stein Anthony , Wong Jeffrey Y. C. , Rosenthal Joseph
Published: July 2022

Posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) platform has shown low rates of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and nonrelapse mortality (NRM) after haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (HaploHCT). However, because of the limited disease control, relapse rate remains a major cause of treatment failure in high-risk patients. Total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI) allows for delivery of high radiation to bone marrow and other targeted structures, without increasing off-target radiation exposure and toxicity to end organs. In this phase 1 trial, 31 patients with high-risk and/or active primary refractory leukemias or myelodysplastic syndrome underwent peripheral blood stem cell HaploHCT with TMLI, fludarabine, and cyclophosphamide as the conditioning regimen. Radiation dose was escalated in increments of 200 cGy (1200-2000 cGy). GVHD prophylaxis was PTCy with tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil. Grade 2 toxicities by the Bearman scale were mucositis (n = 1), hepatic (n = 3), gastrointestinal (n = 5), and cardiac (n = 2). One patient (1800 cGy) experienced grade 3 pulmonary toxicity (dose-limiting toxicity). At a follow-up duration of 23.9 months for the whole cohort; 2-year NRM was 13%. Cumulative incidence of day 100 grade 2 to 4 and 3 to 4 acute GVHD was 52% and 6%, respectively. Chronic GVHD at 2 years was 35%. For patients treated with 2000 cGy, with a median follow-up duration of 12.3 months, 1-year relapse/progression, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 17%, 74%, and 83%, respectively. In conclusion, HaploHCT-TMLI with PTCy was safe and feasible in our high-risk patient population with promising outcomes.
Complications associated with removal of airway devices under deep anesthesia in children: an analysis of the Wake Up Safe database
Authors: Vitale Lisa , Rodriguez Briana , Baetzel Anne , Christensen Robert , Haydar Bishr
Published: July 2022

Background

Previous studies examining removal of endotracheal tubes and supraglottic devices under deep anesthesia were underpowered to identify rare complications. This study sought to report all adverse events associated with this practice found in a large national database of pediatric anesthesia adverse events.

Methods

An extract of an adverse events database created by the Wake Up Safe database, a multi-institutional pediatric anesthesia quality improvement initiative, was performed for this study. It was screened to identify anesthetics with variables indicating removal of airway devices under deep anesthesia. Three anesthesiologists screened the data to identify events where this practice possibly contributed to the event. Event data was extracted and collated.

Results

One hundred two events met screening criteria and 66 met inclusion criteria. Two cardiac etiology events were identified, one of which resulted in the patient’s demise. The remaining 97% of events were respiratory in nature (64 events), including airway obstruction, laryngospasm, bronchospasm and aspiration. Some respiratory events consisted of multiple distinct events in series. Nineteen respiratory events resulted in cardiac arrest (29.7%) of which 15 (78.9%) were deemed preventable by local anesthesiologists performing independent review. Respiratory events resulted in intensive care unit admission (37.5%), prolonged intubation and temporary neurologic injury but no permanent harm. Provider and patient factors were root causes in most events. Upon investigation, areas for improvement identified included improving patient selection, ensuring monitoring, availability of intravenous access, and access to emergency drugs and equipment until emergence.

Conclusions

Serious adverse events have been associated with this practice, but no respiratory events were associated with long-term harm.
Study protocol of a phase II study to evaluate safety and efficacy of neo-adjuvant pembrolizumab and radiotherapy in localized rectal cancer
Authors: Corrò Claudia , Buchs Nicolas C. , Tihy Matthieu , Durham-Faivre André , Bichard Philippe , Frossard Jean-Louis , Puppa Giacomo , McKee Thomas , Roth Arnaud , Zilli Thomas , Trembleau Christelle , Di Marco Mariagrazia , Dutoit Valérie , Dietrich Pierre-Yves , Ris Frédéric , Koessler Thibaud
Published: July 2022

Background

Reshaping the tumor microenvironment by novel immunotherapies represents a key strategy to improve cancer treatment. Nevertheless, responsiveness to these treatments is often correlated with the extent of T cell infiltration at the tumor site. Remarkably, microsatellite stable rectal cancer is characterized by poor T cell infiltration and, therefore, does not respond to immune checkpoint blockade. To date, the only available curative option for these patients relies on extensive surgery. With the aim to broaden the application of promising immunotherapies, it is necessary to develop alternative approaches to promote T cell infiltration into the tumor microenvironment of these tumors. In this regard, recent evidence shows that radiotherapy has profound immunostimulatory effects, hinting at the possibility of combining it with immunotherapy. The combination of long-course chemoradiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition was recently shown to be safe and yielded promising results in rectal cancer, however short-course radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition have never been tested in these tumors.

Methods

Our clinical trial investigates the clinical and biological impact of combining pembrolizumab with short-course radiotherapy in the neo-adjuvant treatment of localized rectal cancer. This phase II non-randomized study will recruit 25 patients who will receive short-course preoperative radiotherapy (5 Gy × 5 days) and four injections of pembrolizumab starting on the same day and on weeks 4, 7 and 10. Radical surgery will be performed three weeks after the last pembrolizumab injection. Our clinical trial includes an extensive translational research program involving the transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of tumor and blood samples throughout the course of the treatment.

Discussion

Our study is the first clinical trial to combine short-course radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition in rectal cancer, which could potentially result in a major breakthrough in the treatment of this cancer. Additionally, the translational research program will offer insights into immunological changes within the tumor and blood and their correlation with patient outcome. Taken together, our work will help optimizing future treatment combinations and, possibly, better selecting patients.

Trial registration

This study was registered with www.clinicaltrial.gov: NCT04109755. Registration date: June, 2020.
Prognostic impact of pretreatment T790M mutation on outcomes for patients with resected, EGFR-mutated, non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Matsumoto Yoshiya , Kawaguchi Tomoya , Watanabe Masaru , Isa Shun-ichi , Ando Masahiko , Tamiya Akihiro , Kubo Akihito , Kitagawa Chiyoe , Yoshimoto Naoki , Koh Yasuhiro
Published: July 2022

Background

Many previous studies have demonstrated that minor-frequency pretreatment T790M mutation (preT790M) could be detected by ultrasensitive methods in a considerable number of treatment-naïve, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases. However, the impact of preT790M in resected cases on prognosis remains unclear.

Methods

We previously reported that preT790M could be detected in 298 (79.9%) of 373 surgically resected, EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients. Therefore, we investigated the impact of preT790M on recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in this cohort by multivariate analysis. All patients were enrolled from July 2012 to December 2013, with follow-up until November 30, 2017.

Results

The median follow-up time was 48.6 months. Using a cutoff value of the median preT790M allele frequency, the high-preT790M group (n = 151) had significantly shorter RFS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.25, P = 0.045) and a tendency for a shorter OS (HR = 1.87, 95% CI: 0.99–3.55, P = 0.055) than the low-preT790M group (n = 222). On multivariate analysis, higher preT790M was independently associated with shorter RFS (high vs low, HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.03–2.36, P = 0.035), irrespective of advanced stage, older age, and male sex, and was also associated with shorter OS (high vs low, HR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.11–4.20, P = 0.024) irrespective of advanced stage, older age, EGFR mutation subtype, and history of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Minor-frequency, especially high-abundance of, preT790M was an independent factor associated with a poor prognosis in patients with surgically resected, EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
Physical activity and healthcare utilization in France: evidence from the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) 2014
Authors: Jemna Dănuț-Vasile , David Mihaela , Depret Marc-Hubert , Ancelot Lydie
Published: July 2022

Background

A growing need and focus on preventing and controlling the diseases and promoting a healthier lifestyle is more evident at global, regional, and national levels. In this respect, it is well-known the positive association between physical activity and population’s health, but also its negative association with the demand of healthcare, which could lead to lower spending on healthcare systems. In France, a lack of physical activity, a high prevalence of sedentary behaviours, and a continuous deterioration of these behaviours are observed since 2006. Therefore, promoting and increasing physical activities could contribute to major societal issues. Within this context, the study aims to analyse how the use of different healthcare services are related to physical activity in a nationally representative sample of French population.

Methods

The data used was retrieved from the second wave of the EHIS-ESPS 2014. The relationship between physical activity and healthcare utilization, controlled by a set of socioeconomic, demographic, and health behaviour factors, was explored both at the level of the entire population and separately for two age groups (less than 65 years, 65 years and older), employing probit and recursive multivariate probit models.

Results

Our findings underline that the relation between healthcare utilization and physical activity depends on the type of healthcare services and age group. In this respect, only among adult respondents, we observe a significant negative association between physical activity and prescribed medicines consumption and day hospitalization, while preventive services use is positively related to physical activity. Common to both age groups, the positive association of physical activity with general physician services and non-prescribed medicines reveal that moderately and highly active adults and elders may be more health conscious and therefore may seek referrals to generalist and other prevention measures more frequently than their inactive counterparts. This explanation is also sustained by the negative association between physical activity and overnight hospitalization or home healthcare services.

Conclusions

This study highlights the double role of physical activity on health as preventive measure and treatment and thus support the implementation of public health policies aimed at increasing the level of physical activity in French population.
Study protocol for a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial testing virtual tobacco treatment in oncology practices [Smokefree Support Study 2.0]
Authors: Goshe Brett M. , Rasmussen Autumn W. , Wagner Lynne I. , Sicks JoRean D. , Gareen Ilana F. , Carlos Ruth C. , Herman Benjamin A. , Walter Angela Wangari , Regan Susan , Levy Douglas E. , Mahon Irene , Muzikansky Alona , Neil Jordan M. , Lui Michelle , Dilip Deepika , Malloy Laura , Gonzalez Irina , Finkelstein-Fox Lucy , McCann Caitlin , Perez Elissa , Ostroff Jamie S. , Park Elyse R.
Published: July 2022

Background

Persistent smoking among patients diagnosed with cancer is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, yet an evidence-based tobacco use intervention has not been well-integrated into cancer care in community oncology settings. This paper describes the protocol of a nation-wide clinical trial conducted by the ECOG-ACRIN National Cancer Institute (NCI) Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) Research Base to assess the effectiveness of a virtual tobacco treatment intervention and the process of implementing tobacco treatment in NCORP community oncology settings.

Methods/design

This two-arm, multisite (n: 49 NCORP sites) hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of a Virtual Intervention Treatment (VIT) versus an Enhanced Usual Control (EUC) among English and Spanish speaking patients recently diagnosed with cancer, reporting current smoking and receiving care at a participating NCORP Community or Minority/Underserved Site. The VIT includes up to 11 virtual counseling sessions with a tobacco treatment specialist and up to 12 weeks of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The EUC arm receives a referral to the NCI Quitline. The primary study outcome is biochemically confirmed 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence. Moderators of treatment effect will be assessed. The study evaluates implementation processes from participating NCORP site staff via survey, administrative, and focus group data, including reach, acceptability, appropriateness, fidelity, feasibility, adoption, cost and sustainability outcomes.

Discussion

This trial will generate findings about the effectiveness of an evidence-based virtual tobacco treatment intervention targeting patients diagnosed with cancer and illuminate barriers and facilitators that influence implementing tobacco treatment into community oncology settings nationally. In the era of COVID-19, virtual care solutions are vital for maximizing access and utilization of tobacco treatment delivery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03808818) on January 18th, 2019; Last update posted: May 21st, 2020.
A systematic review of patient-reported outcome measures in paediatric endocrinology
Authors: McGee Richard G. , Zhang Edward Y. B. , Tan Jennifer J. G. , Cheung Aiden C. K. , Garvey Matthew P.
Published: July 2022

Context

Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) are useful tools in paediatric endocrinology to gauge health status in children, especially since they are often unable to clearly communicate it themselves. We aimed to systematically search and appraise all available PROMs relevant to paediatric endocrinology and provide a curated resource for health professionals to utilise.

Evidence acquisition

We identified PROMs in paediatric endocrinology by systematically searching the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, World Health Organisation International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature on May 20, 2022. Additional studies were located through hand searching and content area expert contributions. We assessed the quality of each PROM using the COSMIN risk of bias checklist.

Evidence synthesis

We identified 5003 papers in the initial search. After applying exclusion criteria we included seven PROMs in the review. Six PROMs were specific to Type I Diabetes and one to Hypothyroidism. We gave all studies an overall COSMIN score of ‘inadequate’ due to poorly detailed PROM development.

Conclusion

The scope and quality of PROMs in paediatric endocrinology is limited. Further research and development of PROM tools are required in paediatric endocrinology to allow for improved patient care.
Evaluation of a training programme for Pharmacist Independent Prescribers in a care home medicine management intervention
Authors: Birt L. , Dalgarno L. , Bond C. M. , Holland R. , Alldred D. P. , Hughes C. , Blyth A. , Watts L. , Wright D. J. ,   on behalf of the CHIPPS team
Published: July 2022

Background

The provision of independent prescribing rights for United Kingdom (UK) pharmacists has enabled them to prescribe within their area of competence. The aim of this study was to evaluate an evidence-based training programme designed to prepare Pharmacist Independent Prescribers (PIPs) to safely and effectively assume responsibility for pharmaceutical care of older people in care homes in the UK, within a randomised controlled trial.

Methods

The training and competency assessment process included two training days, professional development planning against a bespoke competency framework, mentor support, and a viva with an independent General Practitioner (GP). Data on the PIPs’ perceptions of the training were collected through evaluation forms immediately after the training days and through online questionnaires and interviews after delivery of the 6-month intervention. Using a mixed method approach each data set was analysed separately then triangulated providing a detailed evaluation of the process. Kaufman’s Model of Learning Evaluation guided interpretations.

Results

All 25 PIPs who received the training completed an evaluation form (N = 25). Post-intervention questionnaires were completed by 16 PIPs and 14 PIPs took part in interviews. PIPs reported the training days and mentorship enabled them to develop a personalised portfolio of competence in preparation for discussion during a viva with an independent GP. Contact with the mentor reduced as PIPs gained confidence in their role. PIPs applied their new learning throughout the delivery of the intervention leading to perceived improvements in residents’ quality of life and medicines management. A few PIPs reported that developing a portfolio of competence was time intensive, and that further training on leadership skills would have been beneficial.

Conclusions

The bespoke training programme was fit for purpose. Mentorship and competency assessment were resource intensive but appropriate. An additional benefit was that many PIPs reported professional growth beyond the requirement of the study.

Trial registration

The definitive RCT was registered with the ISRCTN registry (registration number ISRCTN 17,847,169).
Study of the factors influencing the use of MyData platform based on personal health record data sharing system
Authors: Choi Wona , Chang Se-Hyun , Yang Yoon-Sik , Jung Surin , Lee Seo-Joon , Chun Ji-Won , Kim Dai-Jin , Lee Woonjeong , Choi In Young
Published: July 2022

Background

The application of telemedicine and electronic health (eHealth) technology has grown in importance during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a new approach in personal data management and processing MyData, has emerged. Data portability and informational self-determination are fundamental concepts of MyData. This study analysed the factors that influence acceptance of the MyData platform, which, reflects the right to self-determine personal data.

Methods

The study involved participants having experience using the MyData platform, and the key factors of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology were used in the research model (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitation condition and behavioural intention to use). The questionnaire comprided 27 items, and system usage log data were used to confirm that behavioural intention to use affected actual use behaviour through structural equation modeling.

Results

In total, 1153 participants completed the survey. The goodness of fit in the structural equation model indices indicates that the data fit the research model well. Performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions had direct effects on behavioural intention to use. We used system usage log data to confirm that behavioural intention to use positively affected actual use behaviour. The impact of the main factors in the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology was not moderated by age or gender, except for performance expectancy.

Conclusions

This study is the first to examine the factors influencing the use of the MyData platform based on the personal health record data sharing system in Korea. In addition, the study confirmed the use behaviour of the MyData platform utilising the system’s actual usage log for each function and analysing the effect of the intention of use on actual use. Our study serves as a significant foundation for the acceptance of data portability and sharing concepts. It also lays the foundation for expanding the data economy and ecosystem in the pandemic era.