bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Become a Memory: The Individual and Collective Aspects of Mnemicity
Authors: Mahr Johannes B.
Published: April 2023

Human adults distinguish their mental event simulations along various dimensions—most prominently according to their “mnemicity”: we track whether these simulations are outcomes of past personal experiences or not (i.e., whether we are “remembering” or “imagining”). This distinction between memory and imagination is commonly thought to reflect a deep architectural distinction in the mind. Against this idea, I argue that mnemicity is not based on a fundamentalstructural difference between memories and imaginations but is instead the result of metacognitive attribution and social construction. On this attributional view, mnemicity is likely a uniquely human capacity that both serves collective functions and has been shaped by collective norms. First, on the individual level, mnemicity attribution is an outcome of metacognitive learning: it relies on acquired interpretations of the phenomenal features of mental event simulations. Such interpretations are in part acquired through interactive reminiscing with other community members. Further, how the distinction between memory and imagination is drawn is likely sensitive to cultural norms about what remembering is, when it is appropriate to claim to remember, what can be remembered, and what remembering entails. As a result, how individuals determine whether they remember or imagine is bound to be deeply enculturated. Second, mnemicity attribution solves an important collective challenge: who to grant epistemic authority about the past. Solving this challenge is important because—for humans—the past represents not just an opportunity to learn about the future but to coordinate present social realities. How a community determines such social realities both draws on individuals’ remembering and in turn shapes when, what, and how individuals remember.
The differential graded Verlinde formula and the Deligne Conjecture
Authors: Schweigert Christoph , Woike Lukas
Published: April 2023

A modular category gives rise to a differential graded modular functor, that is, a system of projective mapping class group representations on chain complexes. This differential graded modular functor assigns to the torus the Hochschild chain complex and, in the dual description, the Hochschild cochain complex of . On both complexes, the monoidal product of induces the structure of an ‐algebra, to which we refer as the differential graded Verlinde algebra. At the same time, the modified trace induces on the tensor ideal of projective objects in a Calabi–Yau structure so that the cyclic Deligne Conjecture endows the Hochschild cochain and chain complex of with a second ‐structure. Our main result is that the action of a specific element in the mapping class group of the torus transforms the differential graded Verlinde algebra into this second ‐structure afforded by the Deligne Conjecture. This result is established for both the Hochschild chain and the Hochschild cochain complex of . In general, these two versions of the result are inequivalent. In the case of Hochschild chains, we obtain a block diagonalization of the Verlinde algebra through the action of the mapping class group element . In the semisimple case, both results reduce to the Verlinde formula. In the non‐semisimple case, we recover after restriction to zeroth (co)homology earlier proposals for non‐semisimple generalizations of the Verlinde formula.
Foaming and Priming of Boiler Water
Authors: Foulk C. W.
Published: April 2023

A rapidly increasing interest in the subject of the foaming and priming of boiler water is shown by the fact that as many papers have appeared during the last three or four years as in the preceding 20 or 30 years. New information about the behavior of suspended solids and of dissolved salts has been brought out, and a helpful theory of foam formation has also been advanced. It would be inferred from recent work that too broad generalizations in regard to foaming and priming of boiler water should not be made, because in some cases the design of the boiler profoundly affects the behavior of the water.
Air Compression With Temperatures Above Adiabatic, With Special Reference to Airplane Superchargers
Authors: Moss Sanford A.
Published: April 2023

In compressing air or other gases by means of reciprocating or centrifugal compressors of comparatively large size, with large cooling areas and often water-jacketed, an appreciable amount of heat is removed which helps to decrease the power input. This cooling, however, is by no means essential, and under many circumstances decrease of power for compression by cooling is not very great. Furthermore, conditions are often encountered which make cooling inadvisable. In the present paper the author outlines the mathematical theory to be used when due consideration of all of the circumstances indicates that a compressor with a small amount of cooling is the most advantageous.
Factor of Safety and Working Stress
Authors: Soderberg C. Richard
Published: April 2023

This paper contains a general discussion of the fundamentals on which working stresses in machine parts should be based. The terms “failure” and “factor of safety” are also discussed. Rules for the determination of working stress as established by the East Pittsburgh Works of the Westinghouse Co. are given. It is stated as the author’s opinion that the engineering profession is in need of a general code on the subject of working stress. The beginning of such a code has been made in the “Code for Design of Transmission Shafting” approved by the American Standards Association in 1927. In an appendix, this code is also discussed. It is hoped that this paper may lead to some action on the part of the A.S.M.E. toward the establishment of a general standard or code on the subject.
On the Mechanics of the Plastic State of Metals
Authors: Nadai A.
Published: April 2023

This paper is a study of the mechanical conditions under which plastic flow in metals occurs. Rules relative to the stresses and the deformation when the stresses reach the limit of plasticity are discussed. Some cases of plastic flow with rotational symmetry around an axis in cylinders are considered. As examples, the case of a bar in combined tension and torsion and that of a hollow cylinder subjected to a high internal pressure and axial forces are treated. The cases of pure bending of a bar with a rectangular cross-section and of pure torsion of a bar with a circular cross-section are discussed, assuming a general law of deformation. Also application of this theory is made to the hollow cylinder subjected to internal pressure. Methods of finding the residual stresses after severe plastic deformation are discussed, and the results obtained in the study should throw light on the problem of these stresses.
Power Required to Drill Cast Iron and Steel
Authors: Boston O. W. , Oxford C. J.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents the results of drilling tests on cast iron and steel. Drills ranging in diameter from 1/2 to 1-1/2 in. of the standard twist-drill type were used. The drills were considered sharp in all tests. A coolant consisting of one part of soluble oil and 16 parts of water was used in all tests. The materials cut consisted of one regular machining cast iron and one cast iron made up of 20 per cent charcoal pig iron, together with 17 steels of a wide variety of chemical analyses, which were selected to cover the steels commonly used in modern manufacture.

Data as to drilling torque, thrust, computed horsepower at the drill point, and net horsepower supplied to the machine as measured on a recording wattmeter are given under two headings: commercial tests and special tests. All commercial tests were run at a peripheral speed of the drill of approximately 60 ft. per min. The feed for each drill size was as near to those given in the usual commercial-drilling table as the change gears available would permit. They were as follows: 0.009 in. per rev. feed for the 1/2-in. diameter drill, 0.011 in. for the 5/8-in. drill, 0.012 in. for the 3/4-in. drill, 0.013 in. for the 1-in. drill and 0.015 in. for the 1-1/4- and 1-1/2-in. diameter drills.

Special tests were run on various cast irons and steels so that the influence of the speed, feed, and drill diameter could be determined, in order that the results of the commercial-drilling tests could be extended to cover any other conditions of drilling for each material. It was found from these special tests that the thrust for both cast iron and steel increased in direct proportion to the drill diameter d; that the torque increased in proportion to d2 for cast iron and d1.8 for steel. The thrust increased with an increase in feed f, but at a rate as slow as f0.6 for both cast iron and steel. The torque increased as f0.6 for cast iron, but f0.78 for steel. It was found that the torque and thrust remained practically constant over the whole range of speeds covered from 74 to 441 r.p.m. for each drill size and feed.

An attempt is made to correlate the hardness values of the materials determined by the Brinell, Rockwell, scleroscope, and Herbert pendulum hardness testers, with the results obtained from the drilling tests.

It is concluded that no satisfactory relation exists between these properties.
Framing Supradisciplinary Research for Intellectualized Cyber-Physical Systems: An Unfinished Story
Authors: Horváth Imre
Published: April 2023

Conceptualization and design of intellectualized, socialized, and personalized cyber-physical systems (CPSs) need integration of existing knowledge across the involved disciplines, as well as exploration and synthesis of novel knowledge beyond disciplinary boundaries. The latter needs a combined use of interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research. Supradisciplinary research has emerged as a new doctrine of combining these research approaches from epistemological, methodological, and procedural perspectives. However, no methodology can be found in the literature that could facilitate the practical execution of supradisciplinary research programs. This position paper proposes a conceptual framework that can be used as a blueprint for operationalization of such undertakings. The framework rests on six generic pillars: (i) problematics, (ii) infrastructure, (iii) method, (iv) stakeholders, (v) operations, and (vi) knowledge. It specifies the major concerns that have to be taken into consideration in a systematic manner in developing executional scenarios for supradisciplinary research. The framework facilitates (i) management of research organization tasks, (ii) joint formation of shared research infrastructure, (ii) setting up concrete research program, (iii) academic partnering and public stakeholder involvement, (iv) process flow management and capacity/competence allocation, (v) a holistic knowledge synthesis, assessment, and consolidation, and (vi) development of tools supporting the preparation and execution of large-scale supradisciplinary research. In its current form, it does not cover the specific societal and personal issues of a successful organization of the inquiry at individual researchers, research teams, and research community levels. A community-based follow-up research may focus on the practical application and testing of the framework in concrete cases—a task that an individual researcher cannot address.
Towards Data and Model Interoperability for Industrial Extended Reality in Manufacturing
Authors: Bernstein William Z. , Bowman Andrew , Durscher Ryan , Gillman Andrew , Donegan Sean
Published: April 2023

Extended reality (XR) technologies have realized significant value for design, manufacturing, and sustainment processes. However, industrial XR, or XR implemented within industrial applications, suffers from scalability and flexibility challenges due to fundamental gaps with interoperability between data, models, and workflows. Though there has been a number of recent efforts to improve the interoperability of industrial XR technologies, progress has been hindered by an innate separation between the domain-specific models (e.g., manufacturing execution data, material specifications, and product manufacturing information) with XR (often-standard) processes (e.g., multiscale spatial representations and data formats optimized for run-time presentation). In this paper, we elaborate on promising research directions and opportunities around which the manufacturing and visualization academic community can rally. To establish such research directions, we (1) conducted a meta-review on well-established state-of-the-art review articles that have already presented in-depth surveys on application areas for industrial XR, such as maintenance, assembly, and inspection and (2) mapped those findings to publicly published priorities from across the US Department of Defense. We hope that our presented research agenda will spur interdisciplinary work across academic silos, i.e., manufacturing and visualization communities, and engages either community within work groups led by the other, e.g., within standards development organizations.
Design and Implementation of a Behavioral Sequence Framework for Human–Robot Interaction Utilizing Brain-Computer Interface and Haptic Feedback
Authors: Hazra Sudip , Whitaker Shane , Shiakolas Panos S.
Published: April 2023

In assistive robotics, research in Brain Computer Interface aims to understand human intent to enhance Human–Robot interaction and augment human performance. In this research, a framework to enable a person with an upper limb disability to use an assistive system toward maintaining self-reliance is introduced and its implementation and evaluation are discussed. The framework interlinks functional components and establishes a behavioral sequence to operate the assistive system in three stages; action classification, verification, and execution. An action is classified based on identified human intent and verified through haptic and/or visual feedback before execution. The human intent is conveyed through facial expressions and verified through head movements. The interlinked functional components are an electro-encephalogram (EEG) sensing device, a head movement recorder, a dual-purpose glove, a visual feedback environment, and a robotic arm. Five volunteers are used to evaluate the ability of the system to recognize a facial expression, the time required to respond using head movements, convey information through vibrotactile feedback effects, and the ability to follow the established behavioral sequence. Based on the evaluation, a personalized training dataset should be used to calibrate facial expression recognition and define the time required to respond during verification. Custom vibrotactile effects were effective in conveying system information to the user. The volunteers were able to follow the behavioral sequence and control the system with a success rate of 80.00%, thus providing confidence to recruit more volunteers to identify and address improvements and expand the operational capability of the framework.
Atomic layer etching of gallium nitride using fluorine-based chemistry
Authors: Hamraoui Lamiae , Zhang Tinghui , Crespi Angela , Lefaucheux Philippe , Tillocher Thomas , Boufnichel Mohamed , Dussart Rémi
Published: April 2023

Atomic layer etching (ALE) of GaN on silicon substrates has been investigated using fluorine-based chemistry. The ALE process used for this study consists of a modification step using SF6 plasma and a removal step using argon plasma. Two configurations were studied in which the distance between the sample and the plasma source was modified. The energy scan, synergy, selective etching of GaFx by Ar+ ion bombardment, and self-limiting etching regime of the ALE of GaN were first investigated. An etch per cycle of 0.50 nm/cycle averaged over 100 cycles was reached for GaN ALE. The self-limiting regime was also obtained for both SF6 and argon plasma steps. Moreover, a synergy rate as high as 78% was achieved. It was found that the GaFx-modified layer can be selectively sputtered by applying a self-bias voltage while the argon ion energy is maintained below the sputtering threshold of GaN.
Investigation into the effect of a PECVD-deposited SiOx chamber coating on the selective, radical-based NF3 etching of TaN with respect to BEOL low-k
Authors: Otto I. V. , Vallée C. , Kal S. , Biolsi P.
Published: April 2023

This paper explores the use of a low temperature inductively coupled plasma discharge containing an NF3/Ar mixture for the isotropic, dry etching of TaN with selectivity to low-k dielectric; relying on radically based etch, without nonselective ion bombardment. With a clean chamber condition, no etch selectivity is found between TaN and the low-k dielectric, but when the chamber condition is manipulated by the addition of a plasma-deposited SiOx coating to the chamber wall, selectivity between TaN and the low-k dielectric is achieved. Deposition occurred on the low-k dielectric when the coating was applied to the chamber walls before etch, and while the TaN film etch rate did decrease with a coating applied, an etching regime was still observed. The coating was found to add significant atomic oxygen to the etch processes and decreased etching of the low-k dielectric. The deposition regime apparent for the low-k dielectric was made possible by the inability of the fluorine radicals to volatize silicon oxyfluoride compounds, causing deposition of a silicon oxyfluoride film on the low-k surface. The same etching inhibition was not observed on TaN, allowing selective etching.
Coach Development: In Situ Examples of Translating Research Into Practice Within Strength and Conditioning
Authors: Gillham Andy , Szedlak Christoph
Published: April 2023

Researchers highlight the importance of using constructivist, learner-centered approaches to develop effective strength and conditioning (S&C) coaching practice, such as reflective practice and community of practice. Such approaches are relational meaning that the S&C coach developer must build effective relationships with the learner (i.e., S&C coach) to enhance cooperation and engagement, which can take a considerable amount of time. Constructivist learning strategies are essential to develop an athlete-centered coaching approach, which focuses on developing not only performance but also the overall well-being of the athlete. Yet, there has been a considerable lack of evidence of how to integrate and utilize reflective practice and community of practice within S&C coach development, as well as documenting their impact. This practical advance article aims to address this knowledge-to-action gap by examining how a S&C coach developer, who is paid by and in situ working with an organization, implemented an effective longitudinal, learner-centered coach development program to promote athlete-centered coaching practice. In doing so, we outline the importance of relationship building, creating community, and trust, which underlines the organic process that seamlessly integrates guided critical reflection and community of practices as valued learning strategies to develop S&C coaches’ psychosocial skills.
Susceptibility of Campylobacter jejuni to Stressors in Agrifood Systems and Induction of a Viable-but-Nonculturable State
Authors: Zhang Jingbin , Lu Xiaonan
Published: April 2023

The VBNC state of pathogens can pose risks to food safety and public health because the pathogens cannot be detected using conventional microbiological culture-based methods but can resuscitate under favorable conditions to develop virulence. As a leading cause of human gastroenteritis worldwide,
C. jejuni
can enter the VBNC state to survive in the environment and food-processing chain with high prevalence.
Therapeutics for Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcal Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Cairns Kelly A. , Udy Andrew A. , Peel Trisha N. , Abbott Iain J. , Dooley Michael J. , Peleg Anton Y.
Published: April 2023

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are common causes of bloodstream infections (BSIs) with high morbidity and mortality rates. They are pathogens of global concern with a limited treatment pipeline.
Candida albicans Promotes Oral Cancer via IL-17A/IL-17RA-Macrophage Axis
Authors: Wang Xu , Wu Shuangshaung , Wu Wenjie , Zhang Wenqing , Li Linman , Liu Qian , Yan Zhimin
Published: April 2023

The relationship between fungi and cancer is gradually receiving attention. Among them, some clinical evidence has shown that
Candida
may be a contributor to gastrointestinal cancers, especially oral cancer.
Complete Genome Sequence of Stutzerimonas stutzeri Strain SOCE 002, a Marine Bacterium Isolated from the Surface Seawater of Dapeng Bay
Authors: Guo Jing , Xu Shuaishuai , Liu Yanting , Zhang Chuanlun , Hou Shengwei
Published: April 2023

We report the complete genome sequence of
Stutzerimonas stutzeri
strain SOCE 002, obtained from Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. The genome is 4.68 Mb long, with a GC content of 63.5%, and contains 4,334 protein-coding genes, 60 tRNAs, and 12 rRNAs. We expect that this complete genome sequence will provide a reference for both genomic and metabolic analyses of
S. stutzeri
.
Integration of ARTP Mutation and Adaptive Laboratory Evolution to Reveal 1,4-Butanediol Degradation in Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Qian Xiujuan , Xin Kaiyuan , Zhang Lili , Zhou Jie , Xu Anming , Dong Weiliang , Jiang Min
Published: April 2023

Plastic waste represents not only a global pollution problem but also a carbon-rich, low-cost, globally renewable feedstock for industrial biotechnology. BDO is the basic material for polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), poly butylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT), poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), etc.
Chemogenomic Profiling of a Plasmodium falciparum Transposon Mutant Library Reveals Shared Effects of Dihydroartemisinin and Bortezomib on Lipid Metabolism and Exported Proteins
Authors: Pires Camilla Valente , Oberstaller Jenna , Wang Chengqi , Casandra Debora , Zhang Min , Chawla Jyotsna , Adapa Swamy Rakesh , Otto Thomas D. , Ferdig Michael T. , Rayner Julian C. , Jiang Rays H. Y. , Adams John H.
Published: April 2023

Malaria control is seriously threatened by the emergence and spread of
Plasmodium falciparum
resistance to the leading antimalarial, artemisinin. The potent killing activity of artemisinin results from oxidative damage unleashed by free heme activation released by hemoglobin digestion.
Pseudomonas syringae Type III Secretion Protein HrpP Manipulates Plant Immunity To Promote Infection
Authors: Jin Ya , Zhang Wei , Cong Shen , Zhuang Qi-Guo , Gu Yi-Lin , Ma Yi-Nan , Filiatrault Melanie J. , Li Jun-Zhou , Wei Hai-Lei
Published: April 2023

The T3SS is required for the virulence of many Gram-negative bacterial pathogens of plants and animals. This study focuses on the sensing and function of the T3SS protein HrpP during plant interactions. Our findings show that HrpP and its N-terminal truncation HrpP
1–119
can interact with MKK2, promote effector translocation, and manipulate plant immunity to facilitate bacterial infection, highlighting the
P. syringae
T3SS component involved in the fine-tuning of plant immunity.
Features of the Interaction of Scheelite with HCl Solutions at 400 and 500°C, 100 MPa, and Various f(O2) (According to Experimental and Calculated Data)
Authors: Redkin A. F. , Kotova N. P.
Published: April 2023

Experimental studies were carried out on the solubility of scheelite in HCl solutions in the concentration range from 0.01 to 0.316 mol/kg H2O at 400 and 500°C, a pressure of 100 MPa and the fugacity of oxygen (hydrogen) specified by the buffers Cu2O–CuO, Fe3O4–Fe2O3, Ni–NiO, and Co–CoO. It was found that scheelite in HCl solutions at the specified parameters dissolves incongruently. In solutions containing from 0.01 to 0.0316 m HCl, minor amounts of WO3 and/or WO3 – x tungsten oxides are found in the run products, along with scheelite. In solutions containing from 0.1 to 0.316 m HCl, the formation of calcium tungsten bronzes CaxWO3 is observed, the average composition of which corresponds to the formula Ca0.07WO3. Based on the analysis of the experimental data obtained, the free energies of the formation of tungsten oxides WO3, WO2.9, scheelite, and calcium tungsten bronze were calculated. Using mutually agreed thermodynamic data, the solubility of Sch in solutions of HCl and (Na, K)Cl with the participation of aluminosilicates is calculated. It is shown that the scheelite has a wide area of congruent solubility in saline systems.
Giant pars plana cysts and a diagnostic approach to peripheral retinal elevation with the assistance of multimodal imaging
Authors: Kenworthy Matthew Keith , Kenworthy Sarah Jane , Bhosale Anant , Raja Vignesh
Published: April 2023

A man in his 50s was referred for a suspected superotemporal retinal tear in the right eye. Fundus examination showed multiple areas of elevated retina temporally in both eyes which were immobile and did not reappose with scleral depression. No retinal breaks were present. Ultra-widefield colour fundus photography with Optos captured these areas of elevated retina in both eyes temporally, which on fundus autofluorescence where hypoautofluorescent with no leading hyperautofluorescent edge. On ultrasound biomicroscopy, an immobile lesion with a single hyperechoic convexity towards the vitreous body was noted. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral giant pars plana cysts which were managed conservatively.

The multimodal imaging in our case is its distinguishing feature which can be used to help ensure accurate diagnosis when one is presented with an area of peripheral retina elevation.
Risk factors for cataract in retinoblastoma management
Authors: Jia Shichong , Wen Xuyang , Yu Jie , Zhou Min , Yang Ludi , Feng Yiyi , He Xiaoyu , Jia Renbing , Fan Jiayan , Fan Xianqun
Published: April 2023

Aims

To investigate the risk factors for cataract following eye-preserving therapies for retinoblastoma.

Methods

This retrospective, single-centre cohort study included patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma receiving eye-preserving therapies between January 2017 and June 2021. Cataract by the end of the follow-up was the main outcome.

Results

Cataract was found in 31 of 184 (16.8%) included eyes during a mean follow-up of 27.6 months. The cataract and control groups were similar regarding patients’ laterality, sex and disease stage. Eyes in the cataract group were more likely to present with endophytic retinoblastoma (p=0.02) and greater intraocular pressure (p=0.001). Competing risk regression analysis (univariate Fine-Gray model) showed that the growth pattern (p=0.01), intraocular pressure (p=0.01), number of intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) cycles (p=0.001), melphalan dose per IAC cycle (p=0.001) and number of intravitreous chemotherapy (IvitC) cycles (p=0.001) were associated with cataract occurrence. Multivariate analysis included higher intraocular pressure (p=0.003), a higher melphalan dose per IAC cycle (p=0.001) and an increasing number of IvitC cycles (p=0.04) as independent risk factors for cataract.

Conclusions

Repeated IAC and/or IvitC with melphalan were the most common eye-preserving therapies that induced cataract formation. The toxic effect of melphalan was an essential factor in cataract development, as indicated by the association of cataract occurrence with the melphalan dose.
Cost of introducing and delivering malaria vaccine (RTS,S/AS01E) in areas of seasonal malaria transmission, Mali and Burkina Faso
Authors: Diawara Halimatou , Bocoum Fadima Yaya , Dicko Alassane , Levin Ann , Lee Cynthia , Koita Fatoumata , Ouédraogo Jean Bosco , Guissou Rosemonde , Yabré Seydou , Traoré Seydou , Morgan Winthrop , Pecenka Clint , Baral Ranju
Published: April 2023

Background

The WHO recommends use of the RTS,S/AS01E(RTS,S) malaria vaccine for young children living in areas of moderate to highPlasmodium falciparummalaria transmission and suggests countries consider seasonal vaccination in areas with highly seasonal malaria. Seasonal vaccination is uncommon and may require adaptations with potential cost consequences. This study prospectively estimates cost of seasonal malaria vaccine delivery in Mali and Burkina Faso.

Methods

Three scenarios for seasonal vaccine delivery are costed (1) mass campaign only, (2) routine Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) and (3) mixed delivery (mass campaign and routine EPI)), from the government’s perspective. Resource use data are informed by previous new vaccine introductions, supplemented with primary data from a sample of health facilities and administrative units.

Findings

At an assumed vaccine price of US $5 per dose, the economic cost per dose administered ranges between $7.73 and $8.68 (mass campaign), $7.04 and $7.38 (routine EPI) and $7.26 and $7.93 (mixed delivery). Excluding commodities, the cost ranges between $1.17 and $2.12 (mass campaign), $0.48 and $0.82 (routine EPI) and $0.70 and $1.37 (mixed delivery). The financial non-commodity cost per dose administered ranges between $0.99 and $1.99 (mass campaign), $0.39 and $0.76 (routine EPI) and $0.58 and $1.28 (mixed delivery). Excluding commodity costs, service delivery is the main cost driver under the mass campaign scenario, accounting for 36% to 55% of the financial cost. Service delivery accounts for 2%–8% and 12%–23% of the total financial cost under routine EPI and mixed delivery scenarios, respectively.

Conclusion

Vaccine delivery using the mass campaign approach is most costly followed by mixed delivery and routine EPI delivery approaches, in both countries. Our cost estimates provide useful insights for decisions regarding delivery approaches, as countries plan the malaria vaccine rollout.
Oxytocin versus prostaglandins for labour Induction of women with an unfavourable cervix after 24 hours of cervical ripening (OPIC): protocol for an open multicentre randomised non-inferiority trial
Authors: De Berti Marion , Le Gouge Amélie , Monmousseau Fanny , Gallot Denis , Sentilhes Loïc , Winer Norbert , Legendre Guillaume , Desbriere Raoul , Girault Aude , Pozzi Jordan , Gachon Bertrand , Barjat Thiphaine , Perrotin Franck , Brunet-Houdard Solène , Diguisto Caroline
Published: April 2023

Introduction

It remains uncertain whether the most appropriate management for women with an unfavourable cervix after 24 hours of cervical ripening is repeating the ripening procedure or proceeding directly to induction by oxytocin. No adequately powered trial has compared these strategies. We hypothesise that induction of labour with oxytocin among women who have just undergone an ineffective first ripening procedure is not associated with a higher risk of caesarean delivery than a repeated cervical ripening with prostaglandins.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a multicentre, non-inferiority, open-label, randomised controlled trial aimed at comparing labour induction by oxytocin with a second cervical ripening that uses prostaglandins (slow-release vaginal dinoprostone; oral misoprostol 25 µg; dinoprostone vaginal gel 2 mg). Women (n=1494) randomised in a 1:1 ratio in 10 French maternity units must be ≥18 years with a singleton fetus in vertex presentation, at a term from ≥37+0 weeks of gestation, and have just completed a 24-hour cervical ripening procedure by any method (pharmacological or mechanical) with a Bishop score ≤6. Exclusion criteria comprise being in labour, having more than 3 contractions per 10 min, or a prior caesarean delivery or a history of uterine surgery, or a fetus with antenatally suspected severe congenital abnormalities or a non-reassuring fetal heart rate. The primary endpoint will be the caesarean delivery rate, regardless of indication. Secondary outcomes concern delivery, perinatal morbidity, maternal satisfaction and health economic evaluations. The nature of the assessed procedures prevents masking the study investigators and patients to group assignment.

Ethics and dissemination

All participants will provide written informed consent. The ethics committee ‘Comité de Protection des Personnes Ile de France VII’ approved this study on 2 April 2021 (No 2021-000989-15). Study findings will be submitted for publication and presented at relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04949633.
Appraisal of published guidelines in European countries addressing the clinical care of childhood sexual abuse: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Otterman Gabriel , Nurmatov Ulugbek , Akhlaq Ather , Naughton Aideen , Kemp Alison Mary , Korhonen Laura , Jud Andreas , Vollmer Sandholm Mary Jo , Mora-Theuer Eva , Moultrie Sarah , Chalumeau Martin , Karst Wouter A , Greenbaum Jordan
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a global public health problem with potentially severe health and mental health consequences. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) should be familiar with risk factors and potential indicators of CSA, and able to provide appropriate medical management. The WHO issued global guidelines for the clinical care of children with CSA, based on rigorous review of the evidence base. The current systematic review identifies existing CSA guidelines issued by government agencies and academic societies in the European Region and assesses their quality and clarity to illuminate strengths and identify opportunities for improvement.

Methods and analysis

This 10-database systematic review will be conducted according to the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination guidelines and will be reported according to The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Guidance for HCPs regarding CSA, written by a national governmental agency or academic society of HCPs within 34 COST Action 19106 Network Countries (CANC) and published in peer-reviewed or grey literature between January 2012 and November 2022, is eligible for inclusion. Two independent researchers will search the international literature, screen, review and extract data. Included guidelines will be assessed for completeness and clarity, compared with the WHO 2017/2019 guidelines on CSA, and evaluated for consistency between the CANC guidelines. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology will be used to evaluate CANC guidelines. Descriptive statistics will summarise content similarities and differences between the WHO guidelines and national guidelines; data will be summarised using counts, frequencies, proportions and per cent agreement between country-specific guidelines and the WHO 2017/2019 guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

There are no individuals or protected health information involved and no safety issues identified. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed medical journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022320747.
Value of improving patient safety: health economic considerations for rapid response systems–a rapid review of the literature and expert round table
Authors: Subbe Christian , Hughes Dyfrig A , Lewis Sally , Holmes Emily A , Kalkman Cor , So Ralph , Tranka Sumeshni , Welch John
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Failure to rescue deteriorating patients in hospital is a well-researched topic. We aimed to explore the impact of safer care on health economic considerations for clinicians, providers and policymakers.

Design

We undertook a rapid review of the available literature and convened a round table of international specialists in the field including experts on health economics and value-based healthcare to better understand health economics of clinical deterioration and impact of systems to reduce failure to rescue.

Results

Only a limited number of publications have examined the health economic impact of failure to rescue. Literature examining this topic lacked detail and we identified no publications on long-term cost outside the hospital following a deterioration event. The recent pandemic has added limited literature on prevention of deterioration in the patients’ home.

Cost-effectiveness and cost-efficiency are dependent on broader system effects of adverse events. We suggest including the care needs beyond the hospital and loss of income of patients and/or their informal carers as well as sickness of healthcare staff exposed to serious adverse events in the analysis of adverse events. They are likely to have a larger health economic impact than the direct attributable cost of the hospital admission of the patient suffering the adverse event. Premorbid status of a patient is a major confounder for health economic considerations.

Conclusion

In order to optimise health at the population level, we must limit long-term effects of adverse events through improvement of our ability to rapidly recognise and respond to acute illness and worsening chronic illness both in the home and the hospital.
Hypothermia or hyperthermia, which is associated with patient outcomes in critically ill children with sepsis? —A retrospective study
Authors: Wang Huabin , Chang Yanhua , Xin Meiyun , Hou Tongshu , Han Lei , Zhang Ruipin , Liu Ziying , Sun Bing , Gan Lijun
Published: April 2023

Objectives

In the early stage of sepsis, identifying high-risk paediatric patients with a poor prognosis and providing timely and adequate treatment are critical. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of average body temperature within 24 hours of admission on the short-term prognosis of paediatric patients with sepsis.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A single-centre, tertiary care hospital in China, containing patient data from 2010 to 2018.

Participants

1144 patients with sepsis were included.

Intervention

None.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The main outcome measure was in-hospital mortality, which was defined as death from any cause during hospitalisation. The secondary outcome was the length of hospital stay.

Results

The LOWESS method showed a roughly ‘U’-shaped relationship between body temperature on the first day and in-hospital mortality. Multivariate logistic regression showed that severe hypothermia (OR 14.72, 95% CI 4.84 to 44.75), mild hypothermia (OR 3.71, 95% CI 1.26 to 10.90), mild hyperthermia (OR 3.41, 95% CI 1.17 to 9.90) and severe hyperthermia (OR 5.15, 95% CI 1.84 to 14.43) were independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Compared with other variables, the Wald χ2value of temperature on the first day minus the degree of freedom was the highest.

Conclusions

Whether hypothermic or hyperthermic, the more abnormal the temperature on the first day is, the higher the risk of in-hospital death in children with sepsis.
Clinical features, immunological interactions and household determinants of visceral leishmaniasis and malaria coinfections in West Pokot, Kenya: protocol for an observational study
Authors: van Dijk Norbert , Carter Jane , Omondi Wyckliff , Mens Petra , Schallig Henk
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and malaria are two deadly parasitic diseases that coexist in West Pokot County, Kenya. The local population is at considerable risk of coinfection with VL and malaria; however, few studies have described the clinical implications of this comorbidity. Questions remain regarding the immune responses responsible for possible predisposing or protective effects. Moreover, characterisation of environmental and household risk factors for co-acquiring VL and malaria is warranted to increase awareness and guide implementation of targeted control strategies. This protocol intends to address these knowledge gaps concerning VL–malaria coinfections.

Methods and analysis

This observational research project will have a multimethod approach, starting with a cross-sectional study at Kacheliba Sub-County Hospital in West Pokot, Kenya. Patients with laboratory confirmation of a VL and/or malaria infection will be clinically assessed and symptomatology of monoinfections and coinfections will be compared. Second, a questionnaire will be addressed to all included patients and to healthy controls in local communities. This case–control study will aim to describe household and environmental determinants associated with VL–malaria coinfection. Lastly, blood samples will be collected from a small cohort of VL and malaria monoinfected and coinfected patients during treatment of their infection(s), and from healthy controls and asymptomatic VL and malaria cases recruited in local communities. These specimens will be used for serum cytokine measurements and molecular quantitation ofPlasmodiumandLeishmania. In this way, the immune response and parasite dynamics during VL–malaria coinfection will be characterised longitudinally and compared with those observed in clinical and asymptomatic monoinfections.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics and Scientific Research Committee of Amref Health Africa. The study findings will be presented at international conferences and published in open-access, peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN Registry (ISRCTN15023306).
Safety and efficacy of post-haematopoietic cell transplantation maintenance therapy with blinatumomab for relapsed/refractory CD19-positive B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: protocol for a phase I–II, multicentre, non-blinded, non-controlled trial (JPLSG SCT-ALL-BLIN21)
Authors: Sakaguchi Hirotoshi , Umeda Katsustugu , Kato Itaru , Sakaguchi Kimiyoshi , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Ishida Hiroyuki , Yabe Hiromasa , Goto Hiroaki , Kawahara Yuta , Yamashita Yuka Iijima , Sanada Masashi , Deguchi Takao , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Saito Akiko , Noma Hisashi , Horibe Keizo , Taga Takashi , Adachi Souichi
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Relapsed and refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (R/R-B-ALL) is linked to a significant relapse rate after allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) in children, adolescents and young adults (CAYA). No standard treatment has been established to prevent relapse after allo-HCT for R/R-B-ALL, which is an unmet medical need. The administration of blinatumomab after allo-HCT is expected to enhance the antileukaemic effect on residual CD19-positive blasts by donor-derived CD3-positive T-cells.

Methods and analysis

The goal of this multicentre, open-label, uncontrolled, phase I–II clinical trial is to assess the safety and effectiveness of post-transplant maintenance therapy with blinatumomab for CAYA patients (25 years old or younger) with CD19-positive R/R-B-ALL who have received allo-HCT beyond first complete remission (CR) and have CR with haematological recovery between 30 and 100 days after allo-HCT. Eighty-five paediatric institutions in Japan are participating in this study. Forty-one patients will enrol within 2.25-year enrolment period and follow-up period is 1 year. The primary endpoints are the treatment completion rate for phase I study and the 1-year graft-versus-host disease-free/relapse-free survival rate for phase II study, respectively.

Ethics and dissemination

This research was approved by the Central Review Board at National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center (Nagoya, Japan) on 21 January 2022 and was registered at the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCT) on 3 March 2022. Written informed consent is obtained from all patients and/or their guardians. The results of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

jRCTs041210154.
Cohort profile: Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH)
Authors: van Wier Marieke F , Jansen Lotte A , Goderie Thadé , Stam Mariska , Nachtegaal Janneke , van Beek Johannes H M , Lemke Ulrike , Anema Johannes R , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I , Smits Cas , Kramer Sophia E
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH) was set up to examine associations of hearing ability with psychosocial, work and health outcomes in working age adults.

Participants

Inclusion started in 2006 and is ongoing. Currently the sample comprises 2800 adults with normal and impaired hearing, aged 18–70 years at inclusion. Five-year follow-up started in 2011, 10-year follow-up in 2016 and 15-year follow-up in 2021. All measurements are web-based. Participants perform a speech-in-noise recognition test to measure hearing ability and fill out questionnaires about their hearing status, hearing aid use, self-reported hearing disability and coping, work status and work-related outcomes (work performance, need for recovery), physical and psychosocial health (depression, anxiety, distress, somatisation, loneliness), healthcare usage, lifestyle (smoking, alcohol), and technology use.

Findings to date

The NL-SH has shown the vast implications of reduced hearing ability for the quality of life and health of working-age adults. A selection of results published in 27 papers is presented. Age-related deterioration of hearing ability accelerates after the age of 50 years. Having a history of smoking is associated with a faster decline in hearing ability, but this relationship is not found for other cardiovascular risk factors. Poorer hearing ability is associated with increased distress, somatisation, depression and loneliness. Adults with impaired hearing ability are more likely to be unemployed or unfit for work, and need more time to recuperate from work effort.

Future plans

Participant data will be linked to a national database to enable research on the association between hearing ability and mortality. Linking to environmental exposure data will facilitate insight in relations between environmental factors, hearing ability and psychosocial outcomes. The unique breadth of the NL-SH data will also allow for further research on other functional problems, for instance, hearing ability and fall risk.

Trial registration number

NL12015.029.06.
Neutrophil activation in patients treated with endovascular therapy is associated with unfavorable outcomes and mitigated by intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Maïer Benjamin , Di Meglio Lucas , Desilles Jean-Philippe , Solo Nomenjanahary Mialitiana , Delvoye François , Kyheng Maeva , Boursin Perrine , Ollivier Véronique , Dupont Sébastien , Rambaud Thomas , Hamdani Mylène , Labreuche Julien , Blanc Raphaël , Piotin Michel , Halimi Jean-Michel , Mazighi Mikaël , Ho-Tin-Noe Benoit
Published: April 2023

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates that neutrophil activation (NA) contributes to microvascular thromboinflammation in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to a large vessel occlusion. Preclinical data have suggested that intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) before endovascular therapy (EVT) could dampen microvascular thromboinflammation. In this study we investigated the association between NA dynamics and stroke outcome, and the impact of IVT on NA in patients with AIS treated with EVT.

Methods

A single-center prospective study was carried out, including patients treated with EVT for whom three blood samples (before, within 1 hour, 24 hours post-EVT) were drawn to measure plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO) concentration as a marker of NA. Unfavorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin score of 3–6 at 3 months.

Results

Between 2016 and 2020, 179 patients were included. The plasma MPO concentration peaked significantly 1 hour post-EVT (median increase 21.0 ng/mL (IQR −2.1–150)) and returned to pre-EVT baseline values 24 hours after EVT (median change from baseline −0.8 ng/mL (IQR −7.6–6.7)). This peak was strongly associated with unfavorable outcomes at 3 months (aOR 0.53 (95% CI 0.34 to 0.84), P=0.007). IVT before EVT abolished this 1 hour post-EVT MPO peak. Changes in plasma MPO concentration (baseline to 1 hour post-EVT) were associated with unfavorable outcomes only in patients not treated with IVT before EVT (aOR 0.54 (95% CI 0.33 to 0.88, P=0.013). However, we found no significant heterogeneity in the associations between changes in plasma MPO concentration and outcomes.

Conclusions

A peak in plasma MPO concentration occurs early after EVT and is associated with unfavorable outcomes. IVT abolished the post-EVT MPO peak and may modulate the association between NA and outcomes.