bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with a better treatment efficacy among psoriasis patients: a study based on decision tree model and logistic regression in Shanghai, China
Authors: Shen Fanlingzi , Duan Zhen , Li Siyuan , Gao Zhongzhi , Zhang Rui , Gao Xiangjin , Li Bin , Wang Ruiping
Published: July 2024

Background

Many effective therapies for psoriasis are being applied in clinical practice in recent years, however, some patients still can’t achieve satisfied effect even with biologics. Therefore, it is crucial to identify factors associated with the treatment efficacy among psoriasis patients. This study aims to explore factors influencing the treatment efficacy of psoriasis patients based on decision tree model and logistic regression.

Methods

We implemented an observational study and recruited 512 psoriasis patients in Shanghai Skin Diseases Hospital from 2021 to 2022. We used face-to-face questionnaire interview and physical examination to collect data. Influencing factors of treatment efficacy were analyzed by using logistic regression, and decision tree model based on the CART algorithm. The receiver operator curve (ROC) was plotted for model evaluation and the statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

The 512 patients were predominately males (72.1%), with a median age of 47.5 years. In this study, 245 patients achieved ≥ 75% improvement in psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score in week 8 and was identified as treatment success (47.9%). Logistic regression analysis showed that patients with senior high school and above, without psoriasis family history, without tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking had higher percentage of treatment success in patients with psoriasis. The final decision tree model contained four layers with a total of seventeen nodes. Nine classification rules were extracted and five factors associated with treatment efficacy were screened, which indicated tobacco smoking was the most critical variable for treatment efficacy prediction. Model evaluation by ROC showed that the area under curve (AUC) was 0.79 (95%CI: 0.75 ~ 0.83) both for logistic regression model (0.80 sensitivity and 0.69 specificity) and decision tree model (0.77 sensitivity and 0.73 specificity).

Conclusion

Psoriasis patients with higher education, without tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking and psoriasis family history had better treatment efficacy. Decision tree model had similar predicting effect with the logistic regression model, but with higher feasibility due to the nature of simple, intuitive, and easy to understand.
Attitudes toward and preparedness for lung transplantation among individuals with cystic fibrosis in the era of highly effective modulators
Authors: Burdis Nora , Kapnadak Siddhartha G. , Bartlett Lauren E. , McElvaney Oliver , Milinic Tijana , Wai Travis Hee , Lange Allison V. , Reid Nick , Dunitz Jordan M. , Billings Joanne L. , Pilewski Joseph M. , Saavedra Milene , Goss Christopher H. , Hartzler Andrea L. , Ramos Kathleen J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Outcomes for individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) have improved due to highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT). However, lung transplant (LTx) remains an important treatment for people with advanced lung disease. This study assessed attitudes and knowledge about LTx in the HEMT era.

Methods

All patients from the University of Washington CF clinic were surveyed March 25-May 30, 2020. Questions addressed self-rated LTx preparedness and knowledge, as well as barriers and facilitators to discussing LTx. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from the electronic health record.

Results

There were 159/224 (71%) responses. Respondents had a median forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 70%, and 142 (89%) were on modulatory therapy. One hundred thirteen (71%) respondents felt that it was moderately or very important to be prepared to make decisions about LTx, though only 56 (35%) felt moderately or very prepared. Only 83 (30%) and 47 (52%) participants correctly answered questions about life expectancy and improved quality of life after LTx, respectively. Respondents with Medicaid insurance less frequently answered questions correctly. The most common barriers to discussing LTx were fear of being a burden on loved ones for 58 respondents (36%) and cost of LTx for 46 (29%). Most participants (94%) trusted their CF doctor, and 75% of participants selected trust as a facilitator for LTx discussions.

Conclusions

Many individuals with CF, especially those with lower socioeconomic status, lacked knowledge and did not feel very prepared for decisions about LTx. Earlier education and discussions about LTx represent an area for improvement in CF care.
The effect of USM-IAM-based counselling vs standard counselling on insulin adherence, FBS and HbA1c among patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM): a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zainudin Aida Maziha , Rasool Aida Hanum Ghulam , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Muhamad Rosediani , Mohamed Wan Mohd Izani Wan
Published: July 2024

Background

Many patients with T2DM on insulin are not optimally controlled despite receiving standard diabetes education counselling. Poor insulin adherence may be a contributing factor. We developed and evaluated a new module [Universiti Sains Malaysia-Insulin Adherence Module (USM-IAM)] on insulin-treated patients with poorly controlled diabetes.

Methods

Eligibility criteria are those diagnosed with T2DM, aged between 18 and 65 years, with HbA1c between 8 and 15% and on insulin therapy for 1 year. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either the USM-IAM-based counselling or the standard counselling (SC) at baseline and the second visit. Patients were instructed to adjust insulin doses based on blood glucose levels. Outcomes were changes in adherence score, FBS and HbA1c levels from baseline to 3 months and baseline to sixth month.

Results

Ninety patients were randomised to each group. The baseline sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were homogenous among groups. Ninety patients were analysed for each group. Adherence score changes between baseline to 3 months were − 8.30 (− 11.47, − 5.14) in USM-IAM-based counselling group (USM-IAM) and − 7.64 (− 10.89, − 4.40) in standard counselling group (SCG), between baseline to sixth month were − 10.21 (− 13.40, − 7.03) in USM-IAM and − 10.79 (− 14.64, − 6.97) in SCG. FBS changes between baseline to 3 months were 1.374 (0.25, 2.50) in USM-IAM and 0.438 (− 0.66, 1.54) in SCG, and between baseline to sixth month were 1.713 (0.473, 2.95) in USM-IAM and 0.998 (− 0.02, 2.01) in SCG. HbA1c changes between baseline to 3 months were 1.374 (0.25, 2.50) in USM-IAM and 0.547 (0.12, 0.98) in SCG, and between baseline to sixth month were 1.03 (0.65, 1.41) in USM-IAM and 0.617 (0.20, 1.03) in SCG. Between-subjects effects for all outcomes were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Both groups had significant improvements in adherence score and HbA1c with time, with higher improvement in patients receiving the USM-IAM. FBS reductions were significant in the intervention group but not in the control group.

Trial registration

This study protocol is registered withClicaltrials.govwith ID NCT05125185 dated 17th November 2021.
Mitochondrial network remodeling of the diabetic heart: implications to ischemia related cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Rudokas Michael W. , McKay Margaret , Toksoy Zeren , Eisen Julia N. , Bögner Markus , Young Lawrence H. , Akar Fadi G.
Published: July 2024

Mitochondria play a central role in cellular energy metabolism, and their dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes-related cardiac pathophysiology, including vulnerability to ischemic events that culminate in myocardial infarction on the one hand and ventricular arrhythmias on the other. In diabetes, hyperglycemia and altered metabolic substrates lead to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by mitochondria, initiating a cascade of oxidative stress that damages mitochondrial DNA, proteins, and lipids. This mitochondrial injury compromises the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation, leading to impaired ATP production. The resulting energy deficit and oxidative damage contribute to functional abnormalities in cardiac cells, placing the heart at an increased risk of electromechanical dysfunction and irreversible cell death in response to ischemic insults. While cardiac mitochondria are often considered to be relatively autonomous entities in their capacity to produce energy and ROS, their highly dynamic nature within an elaborate network of closely-coupled organelles that occupies 30–40% of the cardiomyocyte volume is fundamental to their ability to exert intricate regulation over global cardiac function. In this article, we review evidence linking the dynamic properties of the mitochondrial network to overall cardiac function and its response to injury. We then highlight select studies linking mitochondrial ultrastructural alterations driven by changes in mitochondrial fission, fusion and mitophagy in promoting cardiac ischemic injury to the diabetic heart.
To evaluate the performance of simultaneous amplification and testing assay for group B Streptococcus detection: comparison with real-time PCR and ddPCR assays
Authors: Lu Loukaiyi , Chen Yisheng , Wang Qiang , Gao Jing , Ying Chunmei
Published: July 2024

Background

To evaluate the performance of simultaneous amplification and testing (SAT) assay for the detection of group B Streptococcus (GBS) in maternal vaginal and perianal swabs compared with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Methods

We obtained vaginal and perianal swabs from 1474 pregnant women at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China) between April 2023 and June 2023. Vaginal and perianal swabs were collected at 35–37 weeks of gestation. Swabs were tested for GBS simultaneously by using the SAT assay and RT-PCR, and a comparative analysis (kappa coefficient) was performed. Furthermore, we conducted additional droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) tests to confirm the results when there were controversial results between SAT and RT-PCR. In addition, we compared the limit of detection, technical specificity, repeatability and reproducibility of SAT-GBS with those of routine RT-PCR assays.

Results

In our study, the detection rate of clinical GBS according to the SAT assay was 11.5% (169/1471). The SAT assay showed a sensitivity of 91.8%, a specificity of 99.9%, a diagnostic accuracy of 98.9%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 99.4% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.8%. The kappa value between RT-PCR and SAT was 0.917.

Conclusions

This SAT assay for the detection of group B Streptococcus is not only easy to perform but can also detect GBS sensitively and specifically and may be used in the regular molecular diagnosis of GBS infection among pregnancies.
Chromosomal instability in a patient with ring chromosome 14 syndrome: a case report
Authors: Meza-Espinoza Juan Pablo , González-García Juan Ramón , Nieto-Marín Nayeli , Patrón-Baro Liliana Itzel , González-Arreola Rosa María , Arámbula-Meraz Eliakym , Benítez-Pascual Julio , De la Herrán-Arita Alberto Kousuke , Norzagaray-Valenzuela Claudia Desireé , Valdez-Flores Marco Antonio , Carrillo-Cázares Tomás Adrián , Picos-Cárdenas Verónica Judith
Published: July 2024

Background

Ring chromosome 14 syndrome is a rare disorder primarily marked by early-onset epilepsy, microcephaly, distinctive craniofacial features, hypotonia, intellectual disability, and delay in both development and language acquisition.

Case presentation

A 21-year-old woman with a history of epileptic seizures since the age of 1.5 years presented with distinctive craniofacial features, including a prominent and narrow forehead, sparse and short eyebrows, palpebral ptosis, horizontal palpebral fissures, a broad nasal bridge, a prominent nasal tip, a flat philtrum, hypertelorism, midfacial hypoplasia, horizontal labial fissures, a thin upper lip, crowded teeth, an ogival palate, retrognathia, and a wide neck. Additional physical abnormalities included kyphosis, lumbar scoliosis, pectus carinatum, cubitus valgus, thenar and hypothenar hypoplasia, bilateral hallux valgus, shortening of the Achilles tendon on the left foot, and hypoplasia of the labia minora. Chromosomal analysis identified a ring 14 chromosome with breakpoints in p11 and q32.33. An aCGH study revealed a ~ 1.7 Mb deletion on chromosome 14qter, encompassing 23 genes. Genomic instability was evidenced by the presence of micronuclei and aneuploidies involving the ring and other chromosomes.

Conclusion

The clinical features of our patient closely resembled those observed in other individuals with ring chromosome 14 syndrome. The most important point was that we were able to verify an instability of the r(14) chromosome, mainly involving anaphasic lags and its exclusion from the nucleus in the form of a micronucleus.
Stabilizing the integrity of intestinal barrier to control arthritis
Authors: Kalliolias George D. , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: July 2024

With great interest, we have read the recent article “Expression of HIF1α in intestinal epithelium restricts arthritis inflammation by inhibiting RIPK3-induced cell death machinery” published by Lyu et al. in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. The authors pose that the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha in intestinal epithelial cells represents a crucial check point for the development of arthritis by impeding necroptosis of intestinal epithelial cells and safeguarding the intestinal barrier integrity. Previous studies suggest a potential mechanistic link between faulty intestinal barrier function and potentiation of arthritogenic immune cells. From this perspective, bolstering the intestinal barrier integrity arose as an attractive therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis.
Transplantation of human endometrial perivascular stem cells with hydroxy saffron yellow A promotes uterine repair in rats
Authors: Li Ning , Mao Jialian , Wang Miaomiao , Qi Jiahui , Jiang Zhiwei , Li Yifan , Yan Guijun , Hu Yali , Li Shiyuan , Sun Haixiang , Ding Lijun
Published: July 2024

Background

Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) jeopardise uterine function in women, which is a great challenge in the clinic. Previous studies have shown that endometrial perivascular cells (En-PSCs) can improve the healing of scarred uteri and that hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) promotes angiogenesis. The purpose of this study was to observe whether the combination of En-PSCs with HSYA could improve the blood supply and fertility in the rat uterus after full-thickness injury.

Methods

En-PSCs were sorted by flow cytometry, and the effect of HSYA on the proliferation and angiogenesis of the En-PSCs was detected using CCK-8 and tube formation assays. Based on a previously reported rat IUA model, the rat uteri were sham-operated, spontaneously regenerated, or treated with collagen-loaded PBS, collagen-loaded HSYA, collagen-loaded En-PSCs, or collagen-loaded En-PSCs with HSYA, and then collected at both 30 and 90 days postsurgery. HE staining and Masson staining were used to evaluate uterine structure and collagen fibre deposition, and immunohistochemical staining for α-SMA and vWF was used to evaluate myometrial regeneration and neovascularization in each group. A fertility assay was performed to detect the recovery of pregnancy function in each group. RNA-seq was performed to determine the potential mechanism underlying En-PSCs/HSYA treatment. Immunofluorescence, tube formation assays, and Western blot were used to validate the molecular mechanism involved.

Results

The transplantation of Collagen/En-PSCs/HSYA markedly promoted uterine repair in rats with full-thickness injury by reducing fibrosis, increasing endometrial thickness, regenerating myometrium, promoting angiogenesis, and facilitated live births. RNA sequencing results suggested that En-PSCs/HSYA activated the NRG1/ErbB4 signaling pathway. In vitro tube formation experiments revealed that the addition of an ErbB inhibitor diminished the tube formation ability of cocultured En-PSCs and HUVECs. Western blot results further showed that elevated levels of NRG1 and ErbB4 proteins were detected in the Collagen/En-PSCs/HSYA group compared to the Collagen/En-PSCs group. These collective results suggested that the beneficial effects of the transplantation of Collagen/En-PSCs/HSYA might be attributed to the modulation of the NRG1/ErbB4 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

The combination of En-PSCs/HSYA facilitated morphological and functional repair in rats with full-thickness uterine injury and may promote endometrial angiogenesis by regulating the NRG1/ErbB4 signaling pathway.
Sex differences in airway disease: estrogen and airway surface liquid dynamics
Authors: Harvey Brian J. , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: July 2024

Biological sex differences exist for many airway diseases in which females have either worse or better health outcomes. Inflammatory airway diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and asthma display a clear male advantage in post-puberty while a female benefit is observed in asthma during the pre-puberty years. The influence of menstrual cycle stage and pregnancy on the frequency and severity of pulmonary exacerbations in CF and asthma point to a role for sex steroid hormones, particularly estrogen, in underpinning biological sex differences in these diseases. There are many ways by which estrogen may aggravate asthma and CF involving disturbances in airway surface liquid (ASL) dynamics, inappropriate hyper-immune and allergenic responses, as well as exacerbation of pathogen virulence. The deleterious effect of estrogen on pulmonary function in CF and asthma contrasts with the female advantage observed in airway diseases characterised by pulmonary edema such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and COVID-19. Airway surface liquid hypersecretion and alveolar flooding are hallmarks of ARDS and COVID-19, and contribute to the morbidity and mortality of severe forms of these diseases. ASL dynamics encompasses the intrinsic features of the thin lining of fluid covering the airway epithelium which regulate mucociliary clearance (ciliary beat, ASL height, volume, pH, viscosity, mucins, and channel activating proteases) in addition to innate defence mechanisms (pathogen virulence, cytokines, defensins, specialised pro-resolution lipid mediators, and metabolism). Estrogen regulation of ASL dynamics contributing to biological sex differences in CF, asthma and COVID-19 is a major focus of this review.

Graphical Abstract
ASM is a therapeutic target in dermatomyositis by regulating the differentiation of naive CD4 + T cells into Th17 and Treg subsets
Authors: Chen Yuehong , Liu Huan , Luo Zhongling , Zhang Jiaqian , Dong Min , Yin Geng , Xie Qibing
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aims to investigate the involvement of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) in the pathology of dermatomyositis (DM), making it a potential therapeutic target for DM.

Methods

Patients with DM and healthy controls (HCs) were included to assess the serum level and activity of ASM, and to explore the associations between ASM and clinical indicators. Subsequently, a myositis mouse model was established using ASM gene knockout and wild-type mice to study the significant role of ASM in the pathology and to assess the treatment effect of amitriptyline, an ASM inhibitor. Additionally, we investigated the potential treatment mechanism by targeting ASM both in vivo and in vitro.

Results

A total of 58 DM patients along with 30 HCs were included. The ASM levels were found to be significantly higher in DM patients compared to HCs, with median (quartile) values of 2.63 (1.80–4.94) ng/mL and 1.64 (1.47–1.96) ng/mL respectively. The activity of ASM in the serum of DM patients was significantly higher than that in HCs. Furthermore, the serum levels of ASM showed correlations with disease activity and muscle enzyme levels. Knockout of ASM or treatment with amitriptyline improved the severity of the disease, rebalanced the CD4 T cell subsets Th17 and Treg, and reduced the production of their secreted cytokines. Subsequent investigations revealed that targeting ASM could regulate the expression of relevant transcription factors and key regulatory proteins.

Conclusion

ASM is involved in the pathology of DM by regulating the differentiation of naive CD4 + T cells and can be a potential treatment target.
Seven decades of image super-resolution: achievements, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Maiseli Baraka , Abdalla Abdi T.
Published: July 2024

Super-resolution imaging has, for more than seventy years, gradually evolved to produce advanced methods for enhancing the resolution of images beyond the diffraction limits. Notwithstanding its foreseeable practical capabilities, we noted that this technology has received undeserved attention. The present work provides an extensive review of super-resolution imaging since its first conception in 1952, contextualizing studies into four research directions: reviews, advances, applications, and hardware implementations. We have discussed achievements, challenges, and potential opportunities of super-resolution imaging to equip researchers, especially those in their early careers, with knowledge to further advance the technology. Our work may open interesting research avenues that may accelerate realization of the technology into commercial imaging devices.
Digital twin based DDPG reinforcement learning for sum-rate maximization of AI-UAV communications
Authors: Lee Jeongyoon , Park Taeje , Sung Wonjin
Published: July 2024

Construction of wireless infrastructure using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) can effectively expand the coverage and support high-density traffic of next-generation communication systems. Designing wireless systems including UAVs as aerial base stations (ABSs) is a challenging task, due to the mobility of ABSs causing time-varying nature of environmental surroundings and relative propagation paths to user equipment (UE) devices. Therefore, it is essential to have an accurate estimate of the channel for varying positioning of the UAVs. In this paper, we propose to adopt a digital twin based performance evaluation procedure for wireless systems including ABSs, providing enhanced accuracy of channel modeling for specific target deployment areas. Using ray-tracing channel models reflecting detailed building and terrain information of the transmission environment, an UAV position optimization algorithm based on reinforcement learning is presented. By utilizing deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG), the proposed algorithm calculates the overall throughput in the digital twin and determines the desired states of the UAV. Performance evaluation results demonstrate the trajectory training ability of the algorithm and the performance advantage of the system with a reduced amount of shadow area compared to those with ground base stations (GBSs).
Biopsychosocial factors of quality of life among middle-aged adults living alone in South Korea: a secondary data analysis using the 2017 Korea Community Health Survey
Authors: Kim Hyerang , Bae Eun Jung , Choi Yunkyung , Son Heesook
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate quality of life (QoL) in middle-aged adults living alone and identify comprehensive biological, psychological, interpersonal, and contextual factors related to QoL using the dynamic biopsychosocial model. As a secondary analysis, this study used data from the 2017 Korea Community Health Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

Methods

Among the total 228,381 respondents, 10,639 middle-aged individuals aged 40–64 years from single-person households (5,036 men and 5,603 women) were included in the analysis. QoL was measured using the EuroQoL-5 Dimension (EQ-5D). The EQ-5D descriptive statistics were provided according to biological, psychological, interpersonal, and contextual factors. Considering the data structure of the multistage stratified cluster sampling method, a complex samples general linear model statistic was used to identify the predictors of QoL.

Results

QoL was lower in those who had undesirable psychological status (e.g., more depressive symptoms, poor subjective health, and higher perceived stress), less engagement in social networking (less frequent contact with friends and less frequent participation in social activities such as religious activities, friendship gathering, and leisure), and lower physical, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors.

Conclusions

This study’s findings indicate that psychological and interpersonal factors should be addressed and prioritized to improve the QoL of middle-aged adults living alone. By providing many opportunities for easily accessible social activities that meet the needs and interests of this demographic, their QoL can be improved through strengthening social support.
Prospective life cycle assessment of an electric vehicle equipped with a model magnesium battery
Authors: Pinto-Bautista Sebastián , Baumann Manuel , Weil Marcel
Published: July 2024

Background

Concerns about the sustainability of commercially available batteries have driven the development of post-lithium systems. While previous studies on Magnesium batteries have explored both the potential environmental footprint of battery production and their possible use in stationary applications, their environmental impact in electromobility remains unexplored. This study provides an initial prospective evaluation of the environmental performance of a theoretical Mg–S battery for potential use in electric vehicles (EVs). Utilizing life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, various scenarios are analyzed and compared to conventional systems. The analysis focuses on potential environmental impacts, including climate change, resource criticality, acidification of the biosphere, and particulate matter emissions.

Results

In the battery pack level, the Magnesium anode and its respective supply chain have been identified as main drivers of environmental burdens. Additional concerns arise from the uneven geographical distribution of Mg production, which leads to dependency on few producers. In terms of resource criticality, the Mg–S battery could carry significant advantages over benchmark systems. A look into the use-phase via theoretical implementation in an electric vehicle (EV) also suggests that the Magnesium based EV could perform on a comparable level to an LIB EV, also outperforming conventional ICEVs in several impact categories.

Conclusions

This study is based on optimistic assumptions, acknowledging several remaining technical challenges for the Mg battery. Consequently, the results are indicative and carry a significant degree of uncertainty. Nonetheless, they suggest that the Mg–S system shows promising environmental sustainability performance, comparable to other reference systems.
Thalidomide as an adjunctive therapy in complex childhood neuro-tuberculosis: a case report
Authors: Veeramachaneni Amulya , Rangaswamy Darshan Rajatadri , Kamble Niranjan , Kumar Vikram S.
Published: July 2024

Background

Tuberculosis remains a global health challenge, with central nervous system tuberculosis (CNSTB) affecting 5–10% of extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases, leading to severe complications in children aged 2 to 4 years. Despite timely diagnosis and intervention, management of CNSTB is a challenge. Thalidomide, a TNF-α inhibitor, is a potential therapeutic option in cases resistant to adjuvant corticosteroid therapy. This case report describes the management of complicated CNSTB utilising thalidomide, a less commonly used drug, with a favourable outcome.

Clinical presentation

A 3-year-old boy diagnosed with CNSTB and having a ventriculoperitoneal shunt presented with left-sided hemiparesis. He was previously diagnosed with tubercular meningitis at 2.5 years of age. On anti-tubercular treatment and corticosteroid, he had a complicated course with drug-induced liver injury (DILI) and paradoxical reaction. Despite a year of anti-tubercular therapy, there was a deterioration in neurological symptoms, accompanied by an increase in the number of tuberculomas observed on MRI. Adjuvant treatment with thalidomide proved effective in suppressing immunological activation, leading to a reduction in tuberculomas.

Conclusion

This case highlights the intricacies of CNSTB, including complications and refractory tuberculomas. Thalidomide was effective in managing these challenges, offering a potential therapeutic option in challenging CNSTB cases. Positive clinical and radiological responses underscore the need to further explore thalidomide as an adjunctive therapy in similar paediatric cases.
Prioritizing research needs and opportunities at the intersection of implementation science and engagement science
Authors: Villalobos Aubrey , Reynolds Elizabeth , Halpin Sean N. , Jacobs Sara R. , Peay Holly L.
Published: July 2024

Background

There has been increased attention to the need for, and the positive impact of, engaged or participatory science in recent years. Implementation scientists have an opportunity to leverage and contribute to engagement science (ES) through the systematic integration of engagement into implementation science (IS). The purpose of this study was to gather information from researchers and others to develop a prioritized list of research needs and opportunities at the intersection of IS and ES.

Methods

We conducted three Zoom-based focus groups with 20 researchers to generate a list of unmet needs, barriers, and to describe normative themes about use of ES and IS. Then a panel of nine experts in IS and/or engagement ranked the needs and barriers using a survey and met via a Zoom meeting to discuss and generate research opportunities and questions, with reference to the focus group outputs.

Results

Respondents and experts concurred on the importance of engagement in IS. Focus group participants reported 28 needs and barriers under the themes of 1) need for best practice guidance related to engagement processes and outcomes and 2) structural barriers to integrating ES in IS. The expert panel prioritized six structural barriers and four barriers related to generating best practice guidance, with corresponding recommendations on research opportunities. Example research opportunities related to engagement processes included: define “successful” engagement in IS contexts; adapt engagement tools and best practices from other disciplines into IS. Example research opportunities related to outcomes included: assess the impact of engagement on IS outcomes; examine engagement practices that lead to optimal engaged research. Example research opportunities related to structural barriers included: leverage research evidence to create structural changes needed to expand support for engaged IS; examine factors that influence institutional buy-in of engagement in IS.

Conclusions

Research needs exist that relate to engagement processes, outcomes, and structural barriers, even for scientists who value engaged research. Expert panelists recommended sequential and reinforcing research opportunities that implementation and engagement scientists can tackle together to advance both fields and health equity. Future work should assess insights from broader invested parties, particularly patients and community members.
The genome sequence of the L-album Wainscot Moth Mythimna l-album (Linnaeus, 1767)
Authors: Sterling Mark , Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Mythimna l-album (the L-album Wainscot Moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 691.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.39 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,379 protein coding genes.
Factors influencing the fasting decisions of day-case surgery patients
Authors: Burgess Ruth
Published: July 2024

Background:

Patients admitted on the day of surgery are asked to arrive fasted, and they often fast for longer than necessary. Although pre-assessment supports patients to prepare for surgery, little is known about how they make fasting decisions.

Aims:

To explore factors influencing the fasting decisions of day-case patients and how to provide information pre-operatively.

Methods:

A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Semi-structured telephone interviews were carried out with 10 patients recruited from a single day-case unit. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings:

Three themes provided context for fasting decisions: the operation as a serious event; the patient as an active partner; and the patient as a rule follower. Length of fast is determined by fasting decisions and practicalities.

Conclusion:

Patients approach fasting decisions according to their knowledge and experience and their individual preferences for information. Pre-assessment nurses should tailor information to the patient and explain the rationale for fasting.
Peripheral intravenous catheter-induced phlebitis in a tertiary hospital of Karachi: a cohort study
Authors: Yaqoob Muhammad , Masih Sarfraz , Rasheed Abdur , Shah Yousaf , Uddin Nadeem , Siddiqui Faraz , Rehan Muhammad , Khan Rasheed Ahmed , Ahmed Fahad , Rehan Muhammad , Qasim Rubina
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to determine the incidence of peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC)-induced phlebitis and its predictors among adult patients hospitalized at Dow University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods:

A sample of 258 adult patients admitted in the selected wards and planned for peripheral intravenous catheter insertion were recruited through consecutive sampling during March to May 2019. Daily follow-ups were performed to observe signs of phlebitis using a validated tool. The cohort was followed until discharge, removal of peripheral intravenous catheter, or study conclusion.

Results:

Of 258 patients studied, 139 (53.9%) were females. A significant number of the participants 104 (40.3%) were young adults of age 20–40 years. The incidence of phlebitis was 39.1%. Tuberculosis (TB), peripheral intravenous catheter dwell time before initial assessment, administration of IV fluids, and dissatisfactory nursing care at Day 1 were associated significantly with the development of phlebitis. There was a doseresponse relationship between the catheter dwell time in hours before initial assessment and the development of phlebitis.

Conclusion:

This study found an increased incidence (39.1%) in three months of PIVC-induced phlebitis among adult patients. In addition to patient-related and PIVC-related risk factors considered in this study, PIVC-induced phlebitis is found to be significantly associated with the level of PIVC care provided by nurses. Continuous nursing education, developing standard care plans for PIVCs, and proper documentation of care are recommended.
Author Meets Critics: Selling the American People: Advertising, Optimization, and the Origins of Adtech
Authors: McGuigan Lee , Asquith Kyle , Bishop Sophie , Nieborg David B. , Richards Jef I. , Rosa-Salas Marcel , Timke Edward
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Lee McGuigan, author of Selling the American People: Advertising, Optimization, and the Origins of Adtech (MIT Press, 2023), meets with a group of scholars to discuss how his book provides a history of the origins and development of adtech, which has regularly involved the tension between entertaining consumers and focusing on direct selling. The first part of the discussion covers the origins of adtech and the calculative evolution, adtech’s connections to military optimization techniques, ethical concerns surrounding privacy and discrimination, and the industry’s reliance on surveillance technologies. The group also delves into the implications of adtech as a form of control, shaping consumer behavior and societal norms. They reflect on the precariousness of the industry, the gap between marketing hype and practical realities, the potential for public service media systems, the impact of generative AI, and the need for critical perspectives on adtech’s role in society. The panel agrees that McGuigan’s book provides a critical perspective on the political economy of capitalism and the complex dynamics of advertising, media, and technology. Moreover, some participants challenge the notion that advertising is a necessary subsidy for democratic communication, which supports a shift towards public service media systems that prioritize public culture over private value.
A Pioneer in Advertising and Society Studies: An Interview with William O’Barr on Building Academic-Industry Bridges
Authors: Round Cynthia , O’Barr William M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This is the second of three interviews published in this issue with Advertising & Society Quarterly ’s founding editor William “Mack” O’Barr. The series covers his prolific career as an anthropologist and a founder in the field of advertising and society studies. In this particular interview, brand strategy consultant and Advertising Educational Foundation (AEF) board member Cynthia Round asks O’Barr to reflect on a central tenet of the journal: building bridges between academia and the advertising industry. Throughout the conversation, they explore their longstanding involvement with the AEF and various educational programs. Round asks O’Barr to share his story as a pioneering anthropologist who became well known for working with the advertising industry to conduct research, archive materials, and educate about advertising’s place in society and culture. They delve into the development of Advertising & Society Quarterly and the subsequent launch of the ADText curriculum, a series of open access educational units on advertising and society. Round and O’Barr cover the evolution of advertising, its integration into broader marketing strategies, shifts in societal perceptions, and the need to continue forging academic-industry bridges. The discussion concludes with reflections on corporate social responsibility and the ongoing efforts to understand and address advertising’s societal impact. O’Barr provides advice to scholars and practitioners on how to foster and sustain relationships with each other in understanding advertising’s relationship to society, culture, history, and the economy.
Brave Work in the Age of Climate Change: The Sustainability Imperative Colloquium
Authors: Morrison Deborah
Published: July 2024

Abstract: At the Advertising & Society Colloquium held on March 1, 2024, at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, University of Oregon advertising professor Deb Morrison delivered a plenary address emphasizing the advertising industry’s potential to address the environmental crisis. Following a keynote on intersectional environmentalism by Leah Thomas and a discussion on Smokey Bear’s legacy, Morrison called for the industry to leverage its creative power for climate action. Expanding on her research for her upcoming book, Brave Work in the Age of Climate Change: A Creative’s Guide to Advertising and Brand Messages in Complicated Times , to be published in 2025, she argued that advertisers can and must turn the tide on the climate emergency. She highlighted the importance of storytelling and data visualization, like Ed Hawkins’ “Warming Stripes,” to communicate climate change effectively. Morrison stressed the ethical imperative for the industry to combat greenwashing and adopt “brave work,” characterized by empathy, authenticity, and scientific literacy. She urged creatives to engage in activism, promote sustainable practices, and inspire societal change. Morrison’s address underscored the necessity for the advertising industry to evolve and embrace its role in solving the environmental emergency. This talk was part of a broader colloquium theme, “The Sustainability Imperative,” and followed a plenary by environmental activist Leah Thomas and a panel on the legacy of Smokey Bear.
Ring-shaped segmentation phase design method for the combined point spread function
Authors: Wang Famin , Liu Huijian , Tan Yongyi , Gu Jingyi , Zhang Shuaishuai , Zhang Yunhai , Xiao Yun , Wang Chi
Published: July 2024

The study presents a method for designing phase masks, specifically the ring-shaped segmentation method, which can be employed in creating the modulation phase for specialized point spread functions (PSFs), such as multi-focus PSFs and those with axial encoding functions. An algorithm for phase inversion optimization is introduced to enhance the optical transfer function efficiency of the designed phase mask, which is based on the Fresnel approximation imaging inverse operation and iterative Fourier transform algorithm. The ring-shaped segmentation phase design approach effectively combines individual phases, resulting in unified PSFs with unique properties. The promising outcomes demonstrated by the designed PSFs are truly remarkable. The refined phase masks and experimental verification further validate the effectiveness of this groundbreaking approach. This advancement in ring-shaped segmentation method development has significant potential for real-world applications, representing a noteworthy contribution to the field of optical imaging.
Bifunctional terahertz metamaterial device with switchable properties between transmission and broadband absorption
Authors: Ma Shilin , wu mi , Bian XiuLong
Published: July 2024

In recent years, metamaterial devices have been developed with dynamically switchable functions between narrowband (or multi-band) and broadband absorption. However, these metamaterial devices cannot switch between transmission and absorption. Inspired by previous research, a bifunctional terahertz metamaterial device with switchable properties between transmission and broadband absorption is proposed. The simulated results show that the switchable functional characteristics of the absorber can be achieved by changing the phase transition property of VO₂. When VO₂ is in the insulating state, there are transmission spectra with a maximum transmittance of 90% and a minimum transmittance of 25% in the frequency range from 1 THz to 10 THz. Meanwhile, transmission spectra be adjusted by controlling the Fermi energy of graphene. When VO₂ is in the metal state, the broadband absorptivity achieves over 90% in the frequency range from 2.54 THz to 7.65 THz. Not only that, the absorption spectra can be continuously adjusted by controlling the conductivity of VO₂ from 20 to 200000 S/m. Alternatively, the proposed bifunctional terahertz metamaterial device can work and show the same absorption spectra when the conductivity of VO₂ is 200000 S/m under TM and TE polarized normal incidences. Our current work could provide a new pathway for further development of transmissive and broadband absorbing types of metamaterial devices in the THz range.
When should lockdown be implemented? Devising cost-effective strategies for managing epidemics amid vaccine uncertainty
Authors: Doyle Nathan J. , Cumming Fergus , Thompson Robin N. , Tildesley Michael J.
Published: July 2024

During an infectious disease outbreak, public health policy makers are tasked with strategically implementing interventions whilst balancing competing objectives. To provide a quantitative framework that can be used to guide these decisions, it is helpful to devise a clear and specific objective function that can be evaluated to determine the optimal outbreak response. In this study, we have developed a mathematical modelling framework representing outbreaks of a novel emerging pathogen for which non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) are imposed or removed based on thresholds for hospital occupancy. These thresholds are set at different levels to define four unique strategies for disease control. We illustrate that the optimal intervention strategy is contingent on the choice of objective function. Specifically, the optimal strategy depends on the extent to which policy makers prioritise reducing health costs due to infection over the costs associated with maintaining interventions. Motivated by the scenario early in the COVID-19 pandemic, we incorporate the development of a vaccine into our modelling framework and demonstrate that a policy maker’s belief about when a vaccine will become available in future, and its eventual coverage (and/or effectiveness), affects the optimal strategy to adopt early in the outbreak. Furthermore, we show how uncertainty in these quantities can be accounted for when deciding which interventions to introduce. This research highlights the benefits of policy makers being explicit about the precise objectives of introducing interventions.
Mapping maternal and infant health in Morocco: A global scoping review of themes, gaps, and the "unseen" in the published health research literature, 2000–2022
Authors: Amster Ellen , Jessani Ghazal , Gupta Gauri , Hlyva Oksana , Rae Charlene
Published: July 2024

Global efforts to reduce Maternal Mortality Rates (MMR) have been significant, but researchers are exploring new approaches to address stalled progress and enduring health inequities. This scoping review offers an analytic synthesis of maternal and infant health (MIH) research in the low-middle income North African Islamic country of Morocco over 22 years, a mapping of the themes, research gaps, geographies, and methodologies, 2000–2022. Morocco is an official MIH success story with excellent health indicators, yet indicators do not address local contexts, gender issues, or health disparities. To understand how medical research has reflected social reality over the past 22 years, we explored not just what is known, but how it is known, where it is known, what remained unseen, and why. Four databases were searched: OVID: MEDLINE, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and EBSCO: CINAHL. 4590 abstracts were identified, 3131 abstracts screened, and 402 full MIH articles and 128 sub-group articles identified and subject to data extraction. The 402 full MIH articles were subject to qualitative thematic analysis, classified by 34 primary research themes and explored especially for gender, health equity, and methodology. Findings included significant geographic research disparities; four regions were the location of 75% of research and many regions remained virtually “unseen” by research. The best-equipped urban public hospitals in higher-income regions produced the most research, creating an urban, hospital-based research perspective. Maternal health articles predominated, often >50% more than articles published about infant health. Infants studied were mostly neonates. Socially marginalized women were often invisible to research, as were private healthcare, NGO care (non-governmental civic organizations), and healthcare in community. In articles, researchers recommended new policies, new laws, health system reform, and government actions to advocate for patients. Three solutions emerged to broaden the research perspective: increase geographic breadth, address missing topics and populations, and embrace interdisciplinary methods.