bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel functional insights into the microbiome inhabiting marine plastic debris: critical considerations to counteract the challenges of thin biofilms using multi-omics and comparative metaproteomics
Authors: Messer Lauren F. , Lee Charlotte E. , Wattiez Ruddy , Matallana-Surget Sabine
Published: February 2024

Background

Microbial functioning on marine plastic surfaces has been poorly documented, especially within cold climates where temperature likely impacts microbial activity and the presence of hydrocarbonoclastic microorganisms. To date, only two studies have used metaproteomics to unravel microbial genotype–phenotype linkages in the marine ‘plastisphere’, and these have revealed the dominance of photosynthetic microorganisms within warm climates. Advancing the functional representation of the marine plastisphere is vital for the development of specific databases cataloging the functional diversity of the associated microorganisms and their peptide and protein sequences, to fuel biotechnological discoveries. Here, we provide a comprehensive assessment for plastisphere metaproteomics, using multi-omics and data mining on thin plastic biofilms to provide unique insights into plastisphere metabolism. Our robust experimental design assessed DNA/protein co-extraction and cell lysis strategies, proteomics workflows, and diverse protein search databases, to resolve the active plastisphere taxa and their expressed functions from an understudied cold environment.

Results

For the first time, we demonstrate the predominance and activity of hydrocarbonoclastic genera (Psychrobacter, Flavobacterium, Pseudomonas) within a primarily heterotrophic plastisphere. Correspondingly, oxidative phosphorylation, the citrate cycle, and carbohydrate metabolism were the dominant pathways expressed. Quorum sensing and toxin-associated proteins of Streptomyces were indicative of inter-community interactions. Stress response proteins expressed by Psychrobacter, Planococcus, and Pseudoalteromonas and proteins mediating xenobiotics degradation in Psychrobacter and Pseudoalteromonas suggested phenotypic adaptations to the toxic chemical microenvironment of the plastisphere. Interestingly, a targeted search strategy identified plastic biodegradation enzymes, including polyamidase, hydrolase, and depolymerase, expressed by rare taxa. The expression of virulence factors and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance suggested pathogenic genera were active, despite representing a minor component of the plastisphere community.

Conclusion

Our study addresses a critical gap in understanding the functioning of the marine plastisphere, contributing new insights into the function and ecology of an emerging and important microbial niche. Our comprehensive multi-omics and comparative metaproteomics experimental design enhances biological interpretations to provide new perspectives on microorganisms of potential biotechnological significance beyond biodegradation and to improve the assessment of the risks associated with microorganisms colonizing marine plastic pollution.
Psychotropic medication use among adolescents participating in three randomized trials of DBT
Authors: Mehlum Lars , Asarnow Joan , Neupane Sudan Prasad , Santamarina-Perez Pilar , Primé-Tous Mireia , Carlson Gabrielle A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Frequently presenting with symptoms of mood or anxiety disorders, substance abuse or borderline personality disorder, suicidal and self-harming adolescents often are prescribed psychotropic medication. Though such treatment may be warranted, recurrent suicidal and self-harming behaviour is often linked to emotion dysregulation where pharmacological treatment has weak empirical support. There is a need for more clinical research into the frequency, type and rationale for pharmacological treatment in this group. In this secondary analysis of three randomized clinical trials of dialectical behaviour therapy for adolescents, we report on psychotropic medication use in the respective samples at the time of recruitment, compare use of psychotropic medication across trials and describe sample characteristics that may be associated with possible differences in psychotropic medication.

Findings

Trials were conducted in Norway, the US and Spain (labelled the Oslo, US and Barcelona samples). At baseline, 86% of the Barcelona sample, 67% of the US sample and 12% of the Oslo sample were taking at least one psychotropic medication with antidepressants as the most frequent, followed by antipsychotics (72%, 22% and 1.3% respectively) and mood stabilizers (14.2%, 16.2% and 0%). In the Oslo sample there was a significant association between receiving a diagnosis of major depression and the likelihood of receiving antidepressants, but no such association was found in the Barcelona and US samples. The overall 7–8 times higher proportion of participants in the US and Barcelona samples treated with psychotropic medication could only partially be explained by differences between the samples in diagnostic profiles, symptom severity or level of dysfunction.

Conclusions

Highly prevalent in use among suicidal and self-harming adolescents with borderline features, psychotropic medication was still very unevenly prescribed across trials, differences not explained by differences in sample characteristics suggesting that current treatment practices are not fully empirically supported. We call for continued medical education and increased availability of evidence-based psychosocial interventions.
Clinicopathological alterations in wild mammals from the reservoir system of Trypanosoma cruzi: a scoping review
Authors: Sánchez Pérez Ricardo , Aranda-Coello José Manuel , De Fuentes Vicente José Antonio , Chávez Oscar Rico
Published: February 2024

Trypanosoma cruzi is the etiologic agent of Chagas disease. This flagellated protozoan is transmitted to humans as well as different species of domestic and wild animals via vectors from the Reduviidae family (known as “kissing bugs”). Despite the fact that hundreds of species of wild mammals are part of the reservoir system, the morphological changes and clinical manifestations resulting from the pathogenesis of the infection have been largely neglected. The aim of this review is to systematically compile the available information regarding clinicopathological alterations in wild mammals due to natural infection by T. cruzi. Information was obtained from six online bibliographic data search platforms, resulting in the identification of 29 publications that met the inclusion criteria. Mortality was the most common clinical manifestation, cardiac damage was the main finding at necropsy, and lymphoplasmacytic inflammation was the most frequent microscopic injury. Thus, regardless of its role as a reservoir, T. cruzi has the potential to affect the health status of wild mammals, a situation that highlights the need for further research to analyze, measure, and compare its effects at both the individual and population levels.
Coronary artery anomalies and the role of echocardiography in pre-participation screening of athletes: a practical guide
Authors: Bhatia Raghav T. , Forster Jan , Ackrill Melanie , Chatrath Nikhil , Finocchiaro Gherardo , Fyyaz Saad , MacLachlan Hamish , Malhotra Aneil , Marwaha Sarandeep , Papadakis Michael , Ring Liam , Sharma Sanjay , Oxborough David , Rakhit Dhrubo
Published: February 2024

Transthoracic echocardiography is an essential and widely available diagnostic tool for assessing individuals reporting cardiovascular symptoms, monitoring those with established cardiac conditions and for preparticipation screening of athletes. While its use is well-defined in hospital and clinic settings, echocardiography is increasingly being utilised in the community, including in the rapidly expanding sub-speciality of sports cardiology. There is, however, a knowledge and practical gap in the challenging area of the assessment of coronary artery anomalies, which is an important cause of sudden cardiac death, often in asymptomatic athletic individuals. To address this, we present a step-by-step guide to facilitate the recognition and assessment of anomalous coronary arteries using transthoracic echocardiography at the bedside; whilst recognising the importance of performing dedicated cross-sectional imaging, specifically coronary computed tomography (CTCA) where clinically indicated on a case-by-case basis. This guide is intended to be useful for echocardiographers and physicians in their routine clinical practice whilst recognising that echocardiography remains a highly skill-dependent technique that relies on expertise at the bedside.

Graphical Abstract
Stent-induced new entry and device migration associated with hemodynamic stress after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for type B chronic aortic dissection using computational fluid dynamics analysis: a case report
Authors: Hosaka Itaru , Uzuka Takeshi , Umeta Riko , Sasaki Akihiko
Published: February 2024

Background

Stent graft-induced new entry (SINE) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a serious adverse event which leads to stent graft migration and rupture. SINE is known to be more frequent in cases of chronic dissection and oversizing. However, few studies have evaluated the influence of hemodynamic stress on SINE in patients with chronic dissection. Here, we report a rare case of TEVAR for chronic dissection with a dissection stent, inducing SINE 6 years after the first surgery. In addition, we analyze the hemodynamic stress for the aortic event using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old male underwent TEVAR with left subclavian artery debranching for chronic type B aortic dissection, using a stent graft and dissection stent. The postoperative course was uneventful, but follow-up computed tomography (CT) showed that the stent graft and bare-metal stent had dislodged 4 years after surgery. The gap between the bare-metal stent and the stent graft increased over time, and the proximal edge of the bare-metal stent led to SINE at the descending aorta 6 years after surgery. We performed reintervention to cover the SINE. The patient recovered well and was discharged at 6 days postoperatively. He is currently in good condition 6 months after reintervention. CFD analysis of the patient’s CT image suggested that the local change in wall shear stress at the stent graft and dissection stent might be related to the aortic event.

Conclusion

Hemodynamic stress is a factor affecting SINE and device migration. CFD may be useful for evaluating patient-specific risk of aortic events.
Overcoming Barriers to Discovery and Implementation of Equitable Pharmacogenomic Testing in Oncology
Authors: Shriver Sharon P. , Adams Devon , McKelvey Brittany Avin , McCune Jeannine S. , Miles Dale , Pratt Victoria M. , Ashcraft Kristine , McLeod Howard L. , Williams Hannah , Fleury Mark E.
Published: February 2024

Pharmacogenomics (PGx), the study of inherited genomic variation and drug response or safety, is a vital tool in precision medicine. In oncology, testing to identify PGx variants offers patients the opportunity for customized treatments that can minimize adverse effects and maximize the therapeutic benefits of drugs used for cancer treatment and supportive care. Because individuals of shared ancestry share specific genetic variants, PGx factors may contribute to outcome disparities across racial and ethnic categories when genetic ancestry is not taken into account or mischaracterized in PGx research, discovery, and application. Here, we examine how the current scientific understanding of the role of PGx in differential oncology safety and outcomes may be biased toward a greater understanding and more complete clinical implementation of PGx for individuals of European descent compared with other genetic ancestry groups. We discuss the implications of this bias for PGx discovery, access to care, drug labeling, and patient and provider understanding and use of PGx approaches. Testing for somatic genetic variants is now the standard of care in treatment of many solid tumors, but the integration of PGx into oncology care is still lacking despite demonstrated actionable findings from PGx testing, reduction in avoidable toxicity and death, and return on investment from testing. As the field of oncology is poised to expand and integrate germline genetic variant testing, it is vital that PGx discovery and application are equitable for all populations. Recommendations are introduced to address barriers to facilitate effective and equitable PGx application in cancer care.
Social Determinants of Health and Cancer Care: An ASCO Policy Statement
Authors: Tucker-Seeley Reggie , Abu-Khalaf Maysa , Bona Kira , Shastri Surendra , Johnson Wenora , Phillips Jonathan , Masood Azam , Moushey Allyn , Hinyard Leslie
Published: February 2024

ASCO's new policy statement on SDOH supports practices that sustain and advance cancer health equity.
Universality of spectral fluctuations in open quantum chaotic systems
Authors: Jisha C , Prakash Ravi
Published: February 2024

Quantum chaotic systems with one-dimensional spectra follow spectral correlations of Orthogonal (OE), Unitary (UE), or Symplectic Ensembles (SE) of random matrices depending on their invariance under time reversal and rotation. In this letter, we study the non-Hermitian and non-unitary ensembles based on the symmetry of matrix elements, viz. ensemble of complex symmetric, complex asymmetric (Ginibre), and self-dual matrices of complex quaternions. The eigenvalues for these ensembles lie in the two-dimensional plane. We show that the fluctuation statistics of these ensembles are universal and quantum chaotic systems belonging to OE, UE, and SE in the presence of a dissipative environment show similar spectral fluctuations. The short-range correlations are studied using spacing ratio and spacing distribution. For long-range correlations, unfolding at a non-local scale is crucial. We describe a generic method to unfold the two-dimensional spectra with non-uniform density and evaluate correlations using number variance. We find that both short-range and long-range correlations are universal. We verify our results with the quantum kicked top in a dissipative environment that can be tuned to exhibit symmetries of OE, UE, and SE in its conservative limit.
Silicon Valley Imperialism
Authors: McElroy Erin
Published: February 2024

In Silicon Valley Imperialism, Erin McElroy maps the processes of gentrification, racial dispossession, and economic predation that drove the development of Silicon Valley in the San Francisco Bay Area and how that logic has become manifest in postsocialist Romania. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and archival research in Romania and the United States, McElroy exposes the mechanisms through which the appeal of Silicon Valley technocapitalism devours space and societies, displaces residents, and generates extreme income inequality in order to expand its reach. In Romania, dreams of privatization updated fascist and anti-Roma pasts and socialist-era underground computing practices. At the same time, McElroy accounts for the ways Romanians are resisting Silicon Valley capitalist logics, where anticapitalist and anti-imperialist activists and protesters build on socialist-era worldviews not to restore state socialism but rather to establish more just social formations. Attending to the violence of Silicon Valley imperialism, McElroy reveals technocapitalism as an ultimately unsustainable model of rapacious economic and geographic growth.
The Value of Biological and Conditional Factors for Staging of Patients with Resectable Pancreatic Cancer Undergoing Upfront Resection: A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Schouten Thijs J. , van Goor Iris W. J. M. , Dorland Galina A. , Besselink Marc G. , Bonsing Bert A. , Bosscha Koop , Brosens Lodewijk A. A. , Busch Olivier R. , Cirkel Geert A. , van Dam Ronald M. , Festen Sebastiaan , Groot Koerkamp Bas , van der Harst Erwin , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T. , Intven Martijn P. W. , Kazemier Geert , Liem Mike S. L. , van Lienden Krijn P. , Los Maartje , de Meijer Vincent E. , Patijn Gijs A. , Schreinemakers Jennifer M. J. , Stommel Martijn W. J. , van Tienhoven Geert Jan , Verdonk Robert C. , Verkooijen Helena M. , van Santvoort Hjalmar C. , Molenaar I. Quintus , Daamen Lois A. ,   the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group
Published: February 2024

Background

Novel definitions suggest that resectability status for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) should be assessed beyond anatomical criteria, considering both biological and conditional factors. This has, however, yet to be validated on a nationwide scale. This study evaluated the prognostic value of biological and conditional factors for staging of patients with resectable PDAC.

Patients and Methods

A nationwide observational cohort study was performed, including all consecutive patients who underwent upfront resection of National Comprehensive Cancer Network resectable PDAC in the Netherlands (2014–2019) with complete information on preoperative carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status. PDAC was considered biologically unfavorable (RB+) if CA19-9 ≥ 500 U/mL and favorable (RB−) otherwise. ECOG ≥ 2 was considered conditionally unfavorable (RC+) and favorable otherwise (RC−). Overall survival (OS) was assessed using Kaplan–Meier and Cox-proportional hazard analysis, presented as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Overall, 688 patients were analyzed with a median overall survival (OS) of 20 months (95% CI 19–23). OS was 14 months (95% CI 10 months—median not reached) in 20 RB+C+ patients (3%; HR 1.61, 95% CI 0.86–2.70), 13 months (95% CI 11–15) in 156 RB+C− patients (23%; HR 1.86, 95% CI 1.50–2.31), and 21 months (95% CI 12–41) in 47 RB−C+ patients (7%; HR 1.14, 95% CI 0.80–1.62) compared with 24 months (95% CI 22–27) in 465 patients with RB−C− PDAC (68%; reference).

Conclusions

Survival after upfront resection of anatomically resectable PDAC is worse in patients with CA19-9 ≥ 500 U/mL, while performance status had no impact. This supports consideration of CA19-9 in preoperative staging of resectable PDAC.
ÉTICA DO EXPLÍCITO
Authors: Pereira Caleb Salomão , Adeodato João Maurício
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: O artigo pretende demonstrar como determinado tipo de racionalismo, ao promover a indiferença pela complexidade da condição humana e o desprezo por possibilidades epistemológicas mais integrativas, pode induzir a uma habituação moral capaz de insensibilizar eticamente o ser humano diante dos fenômenos que ofendem a existência do outro.
Metodologia: A abordagem metodológica utilizada se serve da filosofia retórica aplicada à revisão de literatura por meio do método hipotético-dedutivo. Partindo de textos de autores e propósitos distintos, o artigo desenvolve retórica estratégica útil para criticar determinadas formas de lidar com fenômenos constituintes da realidade material, realçando sua naturalizada incompletude.
Resultados: O desenvolvimento do trabalho permitiu organizar conceitos e ideias demonstrativas da efetiva agnosia moral produzida por modos de pensar que desafetivam os fenômenos relevantes nas interações humanas, sejam entre humanos, sejam destes com o meio ambiente. A partir dessa organização argumentativa, pôde-se criticar, a partir dos referenciais teóricos utilizados, a redução epistemológica causada pelo racionalismo, fenômeno que está na origem da ética do explícito.
Contribuições: A conceituação dessa modalidade de expressão ética permite introduzir, no debate sobre temas morais caros ao direito e à política, reflexões sobre a dessensibilização do pensamento racional, ocorrência que termina por criar culturas refratárias à alteridade e à razão compassiva, somente se sensibilizando diante da explicitude de seus efeitos negativos.
The use of drones in hostilities under the Jus ad bellum and the Jus in bello
Authors: Παπαδόπουλος Φώτιος
Published: February 2024

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή πραγματεύεται την χρήση των οπλισμένων μη-επανδρωμένων αεροσκαφών (armed drones) στο πλαίσιο χρήσης στρατιωτικής βίας για την αντιμετώπιση της τρομοκρατίας, υπό το πρίσμα του Διεθνούς Δικαίου Χρήσης Βίας μεταξύ Κρατών (Jus ad Bellum) και του Διεθνούς Ανθρωπιστικού Δικαίου (Jus in Bello). Με επίκεντρο τις αεροπορικές προσβολές με οπλισμένα μη-επανδρωμένα αεροσκάφη στο Αφγανιστάν, στο Πακιστάν, στην Υεμένη, στη Σομαλία και στο Ιράκ, η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή προβαίνει σε μια πολύπλευρη εξέταση των εν λόγω στοχευμένων επιθέσεων (targeted strikes), με σκοπό να αναλύσει τη νομιμότητά τους επί τη βάσει των ισχυόντων κανόνων του Διεθνούς Δικαίου. Αυτή η νομική αξιολόγηση λαμβάνει χώρα τόσο αφηρημένα (in abstracto νομιμότητα των drones ως οπλικό σύστημα), όσο και συγκεκριμένα (in concreto νομιμότητα των drones στο πλαίσιο των συγκεκριμένων χρήσεών τους στο πεδίο της μάχης). Κατόπιν ενδελεχούς εξέτασης του ζητήματος, η κεντρική θέση που υιοθετείται από τον συγγραφέα της διδακτορικής διατριβής είναι ότι η τεχνολογία που εισάγουν τα μη-επανδρωμένα αεροσκάφη δεν τα διαφοροποιεί ποιοτικά από τα λοιπά συμβατικά οπλικά συστήματα, ως προς την αξιολόγηση της νομιμότητάς τους επί τη βάσει του Διεθνούς Δικαίου. Προκειμένου να επιτευχθεί επαρκώς η νομική αξιολόγηση των μη-επανδρωμένων αεροσκαφών, προϋποτίθεται η ad hoc εξέταση αυτών στις συγκεκριμένες χρήσεις τους στο πεδίο της μάχης, ώστε να διαγνωσθεί η συμμόρφωσή τους με τους εφαρμοστέους κανόνες του Διεθνούς Δικαίου.
Cultivating autonomy in writing through 21st century literacy
Authors: Μπούγια Άννα
Published: February 2024

Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι να καλλιεργήσει την αυτονομία των μαθητών στην ακαδημαϊκή συγγραφή στη δεύτερη γλώσσα με τη χρήση τεχνολογικών εργαλείων αιχμής, όπως ιστολόγια, wikis, έγγραφα Google και βίντεο. Συγκεκριμένα, η παρούσα διατριβή αναφέρεται σε μια ατομική έρευνα δράσης εκπαιδευτικού που διεξήχθη κατά τη διάρκεια δύο ακαδημαϊκών εξαμήνων σε 2 διαφορετικές κοόρτες πρωτοετών φοιτητών που φοιτούν σε ιδιωτικό κολέγιο τριτοβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης στην Αθήνα. Ξεκίνησα την έρευνα με στόχο να προωθήσω την αυτονομία των φοιτητών στο γραπτό λόγο με την ενσωμάτωση νέων μέσων στην τάξη της ακαδημαϊκής γραφής, ώστε να τους προετοιμάσω για τις προκλήσεις της ψηφιακής εποχής. Επίσης, είχα ως στόχο να διερευνήσω τις αντιλήψεις των μαθητών σχετικά με την αποτελεσματικότητα της διαδικτυακής ανατροφοδότησης και του διαδικτυακού αναστοχασμού. Μεθοδολογία: Μεθοδολογία: Στο έργο αυτό υιοθετήθηκε η μεθοδολογία έρευνας δράσης για εκπαιδευτικούς. Ως εκπαιδευτικός-ερευνητής, έκανα διάγνωση των μαθησιακών προβλημάτων, σχεδίασα, παρατήρησα, ενήργησα και προβληματίστηκα, ακολουθώντας ένα μοντέλο έρευνας δράσης δύο κύκλων. Κατά τη διάρκεια αυτής της μελέτης χρησιμοποιήθηκε μια τεράστια ποικιλία εργαλείων μέτρησης: δεδομένα από αντικείμενα, ημερολόγιο του ερευνητή, ημιδομημένες συνεντεύξεις. Η μελέτη αυτή συμπληρώνεται επίσης από τα ποιοτικά δεδομένα που ελήφθησαν από τα διαδικτυακά χαρτοφυλάκια των μαθητών και τα βίντεο που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για να παρουσιάσουν τους προβληματισμούς των μαθητών σχετικά με τη συγγραφική τους αυτονομία. Ευρήματα της έρευνας: Η θεματική ανάλυση των ποιοτικών δεδομένων έδειξε ότι η ενσωμάτωση των wikis και των ιστολογίων στον 1ο κύκλο ενθάρρυνε τη συνεργασία, την αυτομάθηση μέσω της τεχνολογίας και τον αναστοχασμό στο μάθημα της γραφής. Αν και οι επιλογές του διδάσκοντος στις εκπαιδευτικές μεθόδους και τα εργαλεία επηρέασαν την εμπλοκή και την αυτονομία των μαθητών στη συγγραφήΗ βελτίωση της διδακτικής μεθοδολογίας και η αλλαγή των τεχνολογικών εργαλείων στον κύκλο 2 οδήγησαν στην ανακάλυψη ενός αποτελεσματικού μοντέλου γραφής. Οι μαθητές ανέφεραν παιδαγωγικά οφέλη από τη διαδικτυακή ανατροφοδότηση μέσω του Google Drive στις δεξιότητες συνεργασίας, στη γλωσσική επίγνωση, στην επίγνωση του έργου και στην κριτική σκέψη. Επίσης, η αυτοαξιολόγηση και η κριτική σκέψη καλλιεργήθηκαν μέσω του αναστοχασμού σε vlogs. Συνολικά, οι μαθητές υποστήριξαν ότι επωφελήθηκαν από την αυτόνομη μάθηση με τη χρήση των σύγχρονων τεχνολογιών, καθώς ανέπτυξαν μια συνεργατική κουλτούρα, ασχολήθηκαν με τη διαδικτυακή γραφή εντός και εκτός τάξης, ανέπτυξαν τον ψηφιακό τους γραμματισμό και ενίσχυσαν την αυτοπεποίθησή τους στη συγγραφή.
Managing recurrent/advanced oropharyngeal/oesophageal cancer with cetuximab-based regimens: A case series
Authors: Dattatreya P. Satya , Nirni Sharabasappa Somnath , Suresh Attilli V
Published: February 2024

Background: Several clinical trials in a setting of recurrent/metastatic (R/M) squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (HNSCC) have reported the use of cetuximab with chemotherapy (CT) or radiation therapy (RT).

Methods: We report on 14 R/M HNSCC (oropharyngeal/oesophageal cancer). These are the patients who are receiving cetuximab as part of their treatment plan and are on follow-up at time of writing.

Results: Seven patients were diagnosed with tongue cancer (#1, #5, #9, #10, #11, #12, and #13) and five patients with cancer of the oral cavity (patient #2, #3, #4, #7 and #14). One patient each had cancer of the oesophagus and larynx, respectively. All patients were treated with CTX (dose: 400 mg–800 mg) for R/M cancer. Patients #1, #3, #4, #5 #7 and #8 received concurrent CT (cisplatin) and RT. Patient #10 received RT and CTX. Patient #8 received docetaxel [doceAqualip], cisplatin, CTX (TPEx) as a second line of therapy after treatment failure with concomitant CT and RT for primary cancer. Patient #11 was switched to nivolumab after stabilizing on TPEx. Patient #13 received docetaxel- cisplatin-5-fluorouracil (5-FU), nivolumab, and afatinib before CTX.

Conclusions: Patients had completed a minimum of one and a maximum of six cycles of TPEx. All patients are alive at time of writing.
Prevalence of Panton-Valentine leucocidin (pvl) and exfoliative toxin A (eta) gene within methicillin resistant and susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in an urban tertiary hospital: A molecular epidemiology pilot study
Authors: Amelia Sri , Kusumawati R. Lia , Hasibuan Mirzan , Winda Lavarina , Balatif Ridwan , Ivander Alvin
Published: February 2024

Background Staphylococcus aureus is well known to cause a multitude of clinical manifestations, from mild to severe bloodstream infections that could lead to death. Infections are common, either in community-acquired or hospital-acquired settings, and treatment remains a challenge due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The pathogenesis of S. aureus is mediated by several cell-surface and secreted virulence factors. The virulence factors discussed in this study are Panton-Valentine leucocidin (pvl) and exfoliative toxin A (eta). Identifying both pvl and eta gene may help in studying bacterial pathogenesis and biology thus creating possible therapeutic pathway or intervention. Our pilot study aimed to observe pvl and eta as virulence gene prevalence in a North Sumatera tertiary referral health center. Methods Our study was a descriptive-analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design in which we collected isolates over a single time period. The frequency of genes is reported as a percentage comparison between MRSA and methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA). Qualitative gene prevalence analysis was carried out using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Our results showed that from 38 MRSA sample isolates, 32 samples were found to be pvl-positive, or 84,3% of the total samples. From 40 MSSA sample isolates, one sample was found to be pvl-positive MSSA, or 97,5%. Regarding eta, from 38 MRSA sample isolates, 81,6% of the total sample did not have eta, while from 40 MSSA sample isolates, all samples were found to be positive for eta. We found that both pvl and eta were significantly more likely to be expressed in the MSSA strain. Conclusions Our study shows that pvl and eta are more likely expressed in MSSA strains than in MRSA strains in Indonesia.
Generative AI, UK Copyright and Open Licences: considerations for UK HEI copyright advice services
Authors: Johnson Andrew
Published: February 2024

With the enormous growth in interest and use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems seen since the launch of ChatGPT in autumn 2022 have come questions both about the legal status of AI outputs, and of using protected works as training inputs. It is inevitable that UK higher education institution (HEI) library copyright advice services will see an increase in questions around use of works with AI as a result. Staff working in such library services are not lawyers or able to offer legal advice to their academic researchers. Nonetheless, they must look at the issues raised, consider how to advise in analogous situations of using copyright material, and offer opinion to researchers accordingly. While the legal questions remain to be answered definitively, copyright librarians can still offer advice on both open licences and use of copyright material under permitted exceptions. We look here at how library services can address questions on copyright and open licences for generative AI for researchers in UK HEIs.
Unveiling the Group A Streptococcus Vaccine-Based L-Rhamnose from Backbone of Group A Carbohydrate: Current Insight Against Acute Rheumatic Fever to Reduce the Global Burden of Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Ambari Ade Meidian , Desandri Dwita Rian , Dwiputra Bambang , Radi Basuni , Qhabibi Faqrizal Ria , Baravia Pirel Aulia , Makes Indira Kalyana
Published: February 2024

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a widely distributed bacterium that is Gram-positive and serves as the primary cause of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) episodes. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a sequela resulting from repeated ARF attacks which are also caused by repeated GAS infections. ARF/RHD morbidity and mortality rates are incredibly high in low- and middle-income countries. This is closely related to poor levels of sanitation which causes the enhanced incidence of GAS infections. Management of carditis in RHD cases is quite challenging, particularly in developing countries, considering that medical treatment is only palliative, while definitive treatment often requires more invasive procedures with the high costs. Preventive action through vaccination against GAS infection is one of the most effective steps as a solution in reducing RHD morbidity and mortality due to curative treatments are expensive. Various developments of M-protein-based GAS vaccines have been carried out over the last few decades and have recently begun to enter the clinical stage. Nevertheless, this vaccination generates cross-reactive antibodies that might trigger ARF assaults as a result of the resemblance between the M-protein structure and proteins found in many human tissues. Consequently, the development of a vaccine utilizing L-Rhamnose derived from the poly-rhamnose backbone of Group A Carbohydrate (GAC) commenced. The L-Rhamnose-based vaccine was chosen due to the absence of the Rhamnose biosynthesis pathway in mammalian cells including humans thus this molecule is not found in any body tissue. Recent pre-clinical studies reveal that L-Rhamnose-based vaccines provide a protective effect by increasing IgG antibody titers without causing cross-reactive antibodies in test animal tissue. These findings demonstrate that the L-Rhamnose-based vaccine possesses strong immunogenicity, which effectively protects against GAS infection while maintaining a significantly higher degree of safety.
Guidelines for Translating Frameworks, Methods, Tools and Principles of Local Innovations for Marginalised and Vulnerable Communities – 2023
Authors: Khutsishvili Kristina
Published: February 2024

The Guidelines for Translating Methods, Tools and Principles of Local Innovations for Marginalised and Vulnerable Communities aim to reflect on the ongoing experiences and lessons learned based on the first piloting round in the cities of Amsterdam, Helsinki and Porto inside the framework of CommuniCity Horizon Europe project and propose solutions for ethical and inclusive engagement with communities aimed to translate, in its metaphorical but oftentimes also literal meaning, the aims, definitions, points of reference of the project and its pilots. The overall goal to bring together representatives of the world of technology and vulnerable and marginalised communities implies the need for translation being a starting point for the mutually rewarding engagement and co-creation of technological solutions targeted to the specific needs of cities and communities. The reflective points outlined in this work add value to the next rounds of open calls and consequent piloting processes as well as to the practices exercised by the so-called replicator cities, keeping in mind the overall project goal of proposing scalable solutions to be further taken up by the European cities and communities.
The Mousterian in North-Western Tuscany: new data from the Piano di Mommio sites
Authors: Gennai Jacopo
Published: February 2024

Background The Mousterian technocomplex is commonly associated with Neanderthals and therefore serves as a proxy for their presence across Europe. Stratified archaeological sites are the most informative because they can yield information about artefacts' spatial distribution and dating. Only a few of the Mousterian sites in Tuscany (Italy) met these conditions and most of these sites are concentrated in the North-Western region, with three specific sites situated in proximity to the village of Piano di Mommio, on the slopes of a small river canyon. Nevertheless, research on the sites stopped early on due to their small extent and complete excavation, which does not allow for additional fieldwork. Methods This article presents previously unpublished field notes, reports, and images, which are then correlated with recent archaeological surveys. Results This combination of historical and contemporary data aims to provide a more detailed understanding of the context in which the assemblages at these sites were found. The insights gained from this research shed light on the arrangement and positioning of artefacts at these locations, offering valuable information to guide future investigations on the assemblages. Conclusions By enhancing our knowledge of Neanderthal presence in this region through this interdisciplinary approach, this study contributes to a better understanding of the Mousterian culture and the broader narrative of human prehistory in Italy. It underscores the importance of integrating historical field data with modern archaeological techniques to advance our understanding of human history.
Feature-Based Inventory Control with Censored Demand
Authors: Ding Jingying , Huh Woonghee Tim , Rong Ying
Published: February 2024

Problem definition: We study stochastic periodic-review inventory systems with lost sales, where the decision maker has no access to the true demand distribution a priori and can only observe historical sales data (referred to as censored demand) and feature information about the demand. In an inventory system, excess demand is unobservable because of inventory constraints, and sales data alone cannot fully recover the true demand. Meanwhile, feature information about the demand is abundant to assist inventory decisions. We incorporate features for inventory systems with censored demand. Methodology/results: We propose two feature-based inventory algorithms called the feature-based adaptive inventory algorithm and the dynamic shrinkage algorithm. Both algorithms are based on the stochastic gradient descent method. We measure the performance of the proposed algorithms through the average expected regret in finite periods: that is, the difference between the cost of our algorithms and that of a clairvoyant optimal policy with access to information, which is acting optimally. We show that the average expected cost incurred under both algorithms converges to the clairvoyant optimal cost at the rate of [Formula: see text] for the perishable inventory case and [Formula: see text] for the nonperishable inventory case. The feature-based adaptive inventory algorithm results in high volatility in the stochastic gradients, which hampers the initial performance of regret. The dynamic shrinkage algorithm uses a shrinkage parameter to adjust the gradients, which significantly improves the initial performance. Managerial implications: This paper considers feature information. The idea of dynamic shrinkage for the stochastic gradient descent method builds on a fundamental insight known as the bias-variance trade-off. Our research shows the importance of incorporating the bias-variance in a dynamic environment for inventory systems with feature information.

Funding: W. T. Huh acknowledges support from the NSERC Discovery Grants [Grant RGPIN 2020-04213] and the Canada Research Chair Program. The work of Y. Rong was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72025201, 72331006, and 72221001].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2021.0135 .
Local Elements Content on Working Surfaces of Five Different New Ni-Ti Rotary Endodontic Files: SEM-EDS Study
Authors: Noenko Igor , Fedak Volodymyr , Biley Anastasia
Published: February 2024

Objective: To assess diversity of local elements content within working surfaces of five different new Ni-Ti rotary endodontic files.

Methods: Energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) for local elements content analysis was held within three specific areas of working surfaces of the files identified over received SEM images: 1) with pronounced visible signs of impurities; 2) with slightly visible signs of impurities; 3) with no visible signs of impurities. EDS procedure was provided with the use of EDS-detector. Local elements content data at the three above-mentioned specific areas of files’ working surfaces was presented in means of weight percent (wt%), normalized to 100%, and was automatically calculated by the SEM-EDS software.

Results: Expressiveness of visible signs of impurities present over working surfaces of the files demonstrated correlation with nickel (r=-0.62, p < 0.05) and titanium (r=-0.49, p < 0.05) content at analyzed areas, while also with carbon (r=0.57, p < 0.05) and oxygen (r=0.50, p < 0.05) content at analyzed areas. Odds ratio for possibility to register traces of one of the following elements N, Na, Mg, Al, Si, S, Cl, Cr, Fe, Ca at the working surface of endodontic file under condition of present pronounced visible signs of impurities was found to be at the level of OR=12.5 (95% CI: 1.08; 143.44; p=0.04).

Conclusions: None of the analyzed files was free of impurities over their working surface. Carbon, oxygen, nickel, and titanium were the most prevalent elements observed along working surfaces of five new different endodontic files, while some instruments were characterized with the presence of tungsten, silicon, aurum, iron, chromium, magnesium and nitrogen, maximum level of which at selected areas with pronounced visible signs of impurities outreach 10% weight percent values.
Collaboration With Researchers With Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities: An Illustration of Inclusive Research Attributes Across Two Projects
Authors: Kramer Jessica M. , Dean Evan E. , Urquilla Micah Peace , Beasley Joan B. , Linnenkamp Brad
Published: February 2024

Researchers have implemented inclusive research for over 30 years. This article describes how two research projects collaborated with researchers with disabilities and aligns the description with four attributes of inclusive research developed by a consensus of international experts with and without disabilities. The first project, the Person Experiences Interview Survey (PEIS) Workgroup, reviewed and revised items for a self-report survey of mental health service experiences. The second project describes the peer-led implementation of the Self-Determined Career Design Model (SDCDM) intervention. Four factors facilitated or were barriers to the projects’ alignment with inclusive research attributes. First, relationships enhanced capacity to engage in meaningful ways. Second, balance between consistency and adaptability promoted engagement. Third, long-term capacity was enabled by ongoing engagement and peer mentorship. Fourth, time and funds impacted inclusive implementation. Engaging researchers with disabilities meaningfully enhanced the research process and products.
Reconceptualizing Research to Practice: The Role of Self-Advocates in Disrupting How We Think About Implementing Research-Based Practices in Disability
Authors: Broussard Ricky , Gill Norine Jaloway , Dean Evan , Shogren Karrie A.
Published: February 2024

Inclusive research advances the right of people with lived experience with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be involved in all phases of the research process. From an implementation science perspective, a critical component to inclusive research is addressing how research-based practices are adopted, implemented, and sustained in real-world contexts by real-world implementers—who in the context of this special issue are people with lived experience of disability. The purpose of this article is to advance inclusive approaches in the implementation of research-based practices in disability services and supports by highlighting strategies used by an innovative organization that supports self-advocates to implement research-based practices in disability supports and services.
The Diaspora Human Genomics Institute Launches the Together for Change Initiative: A Transformative, Historic Partnership to Ensure Health Equity in a Time of Unprecedented Technological Advancements
Authors: Hildreth James E.K. , Shanker Anil
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Human subjects research and drug and device development currently base their findings largely on the genetic data of the non-Hispanic White population, excluding People of Color. This practice puts People of Color at a distinct and potentially deadly disadvantage in being treated for sickness, disability, and disease, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Major disparities exist in all chronic health conditions, including cancer. Data show that less than 2% of genetic information being studied today originates from people of African ancestry. If genomic datasets do not adequately represent People of Color, new drugs and genetic therapies may not work as well as for people of European descent. Addressing the urgent concern that historically marginalized people may again be excluded from the next technological leap affecting human health and the benefits it will bring will requires a paradigm shift. Thus, on behalf of underserved and marginalized people, we developed the Together for CHANGE (T4C) initiative as a unique collaborative public-private partnership to address the concern. The comprehensive programs designed in the T4C initiative, governed by the Diaspora Human Genomics Institute founded by Meharry Medical College, will transform the landscape of education and health care and positively affect global Black communities for decades to come.
Social Isolation, Self-Rated Health, and Self-Rated Oral Health among African Americans
Authors: Taylor Harry Owen , Taylor Robert Joseph , Tsuchiya Kazumi , Chatters Linda
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Social isolation is associated with worse health; however, few studies have examined the health effects of isolation among African Americans. The purpose of this study is to evaluate associations between social isolation and self-rated physical and oral health from the National Survey of American Life, a nationally representative sample of African Americans. Social isolation was operationalized to reflect both objective isolation (lack of contact) and subjective isolation (lack of emotional closeness). Self-rated physical and oral health were regressed on objective and subjective isolation while controlling for marital status, gender, age, family income, education, and health behaviors. Poorer self-rated physical health was associated with objective isolation, while poorer self-rated oral health was associated with subjective isolation. This study contributes to the small literature of the impact of social isolation on health among African Americans; furthermore, it is the first to examine the relationship between isolation and self-rated oral health in this population.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Food Access: Insights from First-Person Accounts in a Safety-Net Health Care System
Authors: Cortés Dharma E. , Zack Rachel M. , Odayar Varshini , Moyer Margo , Kumar Anika , Maia Juliana Libardi , Bronico Jackie V. Rodriguez , Granick Jean
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected populations that were already facing socioeconomic disadvantages and limited access to health care services. The livelihood of millions was further compromised when strict shelter-in-place measures forced them out of their jobs. The way that individuals accessed food during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed as a result of declines in household income, food chain supply disruptions, and social distance measures. This qualitative study examined the food access experiences of participants enrolled in a safety-net health care system-based, free, monthly fruit and vegetable market in the Metro Boston area during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings offer rich qualitative information to understand the financial repercussions of the pandemic on food access.
Experiences of Stigma and Discrimination Compounded by Intersecting Identities among Individuals Receiving Medication for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Nwanaji-Enwerem Uzoji , Redeker Nancy S. , O'Connell Meghan , Barry Declan , Iheanacho Theddeus , Knobf Tish M. , Scheinost Dustin , Wang Katie , Yaggi Klar , Sadler Lois S.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Stigma and discrimination create barriers to care among people receiving medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). We report qualitative findings from a mixed methods study guided by three aims: to explore (1) intersecting identities of people receiving MOUD (2) how individuals experience stigma and discrimination and (3) helpful resources in addressing cumulative experiences of multiple forms of disadvantage. We conducted interviews with 25 individuals in three treatment centers in the Northeast United States and identified six themes: (1) Living with multiple socially marginalized identities and addiction; (2) Loss; (3) "It's everywhere": Discrimination and stigma; (4) A "damaged" identity, (5) Positive responses to negative experiences: Facing reality and becoming accountable, and (6) Experiencing treatment and identifying supportive interventions. Findings highlight the complexity of intersecting, marginalized social positions. Future work should look beyond one-size-fits-all approaches to care and recognize individual vulnerabilities and strengths for improving outcomes among those experiencing OUD.
The Relationship Between Dental Provider Density and Receipt of Dental Care Among Medicaid-enrolled Adults
Authors: Taylor Heather L. , Menachemi Nir , Holmes Ann , Sen Bisakha , Schleyer Titus , Blackburn Justin
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Objective. We sought to measure the association of dental provider density and receipt of dental care among Medicaid-enrolled adults. Methods. We used four years of Indiana Medicaid claims and enrollment data (2015 to 2018) and the Area Health Resources File to examine the relationship between any dental visit (ADV) or any preventive dental visit (PDV) and three county-level measures of dental provider density (the total number of Medicaid-participating dentists, a binary indicator of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) with a Medicaid-participating dentist, and the overall county dentist-to-population ratio). Results. The likelihood of ADV or PDV increased with greater density of Medicaid-participating dentists as well as dentists accepting Medicaid working at an FQHC within the county. The overall dentist-to-population ratio was not associated with dental care use among the adult Medicaid population. Conclusion. Dentist participation in Medicaid program may be a modifiable barrier to Medicaid-enrolled adults' receipt of dental care.