bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing graft‐recipient size matching in adolescent liver transplantation: Don't forget ex situ right posterior sectionectomy
Authors: Rossignol Guillaume , Muller Xavier , Dubois Remi , Rode Agnes , Mabrut Jean‐Yves , Mohkam Kayvan
Published: March 2023

Background

Graft‐recipient size matching is a major challenge in pediatric liver transplantation, especially for adolescent recipients. Indeed, adolescents have the lowest transplantation rate among pediatric recipients, despite prioritization policies and the use of split grafts. In case of an important graft‐recipient size mismatch, ex situ graft reduction with right posterior sectionectomy (RPS) may optimize the available donor pool to benefit adolescent recipients.

Methods

We present three cases of liver graft reduction with ex situ RPS for adolescent recipients. The surgical strategy was guided by GRWR (graft/recipient weight ratio), GW/RAP (right anteroposterior distance ratio), and CT‐scan volumetric and anthropometric evaluation.

Results

Recipients were 12, 13, and 14‐year‐old and weighed 32, 47, and 35 kg, respectively. All liver grafts were procured from brain‐dead donors with a donor/recipient weight ratio >1.5. RPS was performed ex situ, removing 20% of the total liver volume leading to a decrease of the GRWR <4% and the GW/RAP <100 g/cm in each case. All three reduced grafts were successfully transplanted with a static cold storage time ranging from 390 to 510 min without the need for delayed abdominal closure. We did not observe any primary non‐function, vascular complication, or delayed graft function with a median follow‐up of 6 months. One biliary anastomotic stenosis occurred which required surgical treatment.

Conclusion

Ex situ liver graft reduction with RPS allowed for successful transplantation in case of anthropometric graft‐recipient size mismatch in adolescent liver transplant candidates. Although the use of split grafts remains the gold standard, RPS should be acknowledged as a way to optimize the donor pool, especially for adolescent recipients.
Just‐in‐time for supply chains in turbulent times
Authors: Choi Thomas Y. , Netland Torbjørn H. , Sanders Nada , Sodhi ManMohan S. , Wagner Stephan M.
Published: March 2023

The Covid‐19 pandemic and other recent disruptions in the early 2020s led to sections in the business press blaming just‐in‐time (JIT) practices for operational failings. Consequently, there are calls for moving away from JIT toward holding more inventory as preparation against future disruptions, which is referred to as just‐in‐case. The academic community is also divided. Some scholars argue that JIT is not resilient, while others maintain that JIT can continue providing superior performance even with disruptions. Motivated by this debate, we discuss various misconceptions about JIT that underlie this debate. Furthermore, we present different ways to adapt JIT for turbulent environments and argue that companies can improve their supply chain performance if JIT supply chain segments are chosen fittingly—even more so—during disruptions.
Informational value of visual nudges during crises: Improving public health outcomes through social media engagement amid COVID‐19
Authors: Ivanov Anton , Tacheva Zhasmina , Alzaidan Abdullatif , Souyris Sebastian , England Albert C.
Published: March 2023

In this study, we conceptualize and empirically evaluate how large‐scale organizations can utilize the informational value of visual nudges on social media to promote safety among users and thus improve public health outcomes in the context of the coronovirus desease caused by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus (COVID‐19) pandemic. We construct a unique panel dataset combining data collected from multiple public and proprietary sources. To operationalize visual nudges from user‐generated content, we engage in extensive manual classification of images collected from Instagram (IG), Twitter (TW), and Facebook (FB). To examine the relationship between visual nudging and COVID‐19 positivity, we rely on a combination of econometric and epidemiological models. We find that when institutional actors share more images containing mask‐related information on IG, their COVID‐19 positivity rates decrease by up to 25%, on average. Also, given the fragmentary evidence behind FB and TW effects, our results provide suggestive evidence of the “boundary condition” of the visual nudge effect. Finally, empirical evidence indicates the dynamic and curvilinear effect of visual nudges on positivity over time, such that the informational value of visual nudging is most prominent if communicated 3 to 5 weeks ahead of time, on average. Our results demonstrate the informational value of visual nudges communicated through pertinent social media channels, as well as their capacity to improve public health outcomes. This suggests the feasibility of institutional actors using social media engagement to promote safe behaviors. We conclude by discussing how our findings may be used to develop more effective communication strategies regarding public perceptions of mask use and other relevant safety measures.
MICA and MICB allele assortment in Finland
Authors: Koskela Satu , Tammi Silja , Clancy Jonna , Lucas Jonathan A. M. , Turner Thomas R. , Hyvärinen Kati , Ritari Jarmo , Partanen Jukka
Published: March 2023

Genetic variation in the MICA and MICB genes located within the major histocompatibility complex region has been reported to be associated with transplantation outcome and susceptibility to autoimmune diseases and infections. Only limited data of polymorphism in these genes in different populations are available. We here report allelic variation at 2‐field resolution and the haplotypes of the MICA and MICB genes in Finland (n = 1032 individuals), a north European population with historical bottleneck and founder effects. Altogether 24 MICA and 18 MICB alleles were found, forming 70 estimated MICA‐MICB haplotypes. As compared to other populations frequency differences were found, for example, MICA*010:01 was found to be at an allele frequency of 0.133 in Finland which is higher than in other European populations (0.021–0.077), but close to Asian populations (0.151–0.220). Three novel alleles with amino acid change are described. The results demonstrate a relatively high level of polymorphism and population differences in MICA and MICB allele distribution.
Investigating the dynamics of protein–protein interactions in plants
Authors: Zhang Youjun , Chen Moxian , Liu Tieyuan , Qin Kezhen , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: March 2023

Both stable and transient protein interactions play an important role in the complex assemblies required for the proper functioning of living cells. Several methods have been developed to monitor protein–protein interactions in plants. However, the detection of dynamic protein complexes is very challenging, with few technologies available for this purpose. Here, we developed a new platform using the plant UBIQUITIN promoter to drive transgene expression and thereby to detect protein interactions in planta. Typically, to decide which side of the protein to link the tags, the subcellular localization of the protein fused either N‐terminal or C‐terminal mCitrine was firstly confirmed by using eight different specific mCherry markers. Following stable or transient protein expression in plants, the protein interaction network was detected by affinity purification mass spectrometry. These interactions were subsequently confirmed by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC), bioluminescence resonance energy transfer and co‐immunoprecipitation assays. The dynamics of these interactions were monitored by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and split‐nano luciferase, whilst the ternary protein complex association was monitored by BiFC‐FRET. Using the canonical glycolytic metabolon as an example, the interaction between these enzymes was characterized under conditions that mimic physiologically relevant energy statuses.
Isoperimetric problems for zonotopes
Authors: Joós Antal , Lángi Zsolt
Published: March 2023

Shephard (Canad. J. Math. 26 (1974), 302–321) proved a decomposition theorem for zonotopes yielding a simple formula for their volume. In this note, we prove a generalization of this theorem yielding similar formulae for their intrinsic volumes. We use this result to investigate geometric extremum problems for zonotopes generated by a given number of segments. In particular, we solve isoperimetric problems for d‐dimensional zonotopes generated by d or segments, and give asymptotic estimates for the solutions of similar problems for zonotopes generated by sufficiently many segments. In addition, we present applications of our results to the ℓ1 polarization problem on the unit sphere and to a vector‐valued Maclaurin inequality conjectured by Brazitikos and McIntyre in 2021.
Branched nozzle oblique angle flow for initiated chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Welchert Nicholas A. , Swarup Jay V. , Gupta Rohan S. , Gupta Malancha
Published: March 2023

Monomer precursor flow was introduced at an oblique angle to the substrate at two locations during the initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) process using a branched nozzle inlet extension. The polymerization of methacrylic acid was systematically studied as a function of the nozzle length and the monomer flow rate. Our experimental data showed the evolution of two distinct symmetrical thickness profiles as the flow rate and nozzle length increased. The maximum thickness moved downstream along the axes of both nozzles as the flow rate and nozzle length increased. Computational models were used to study the effects of the nozzle length and the monomer flow rate on the velocity profile within the reactor. Increasing the monomer flow rate and the nozzle length resulted in increases in the velocity profile ranges and the movement of the location of the maximum velocity and local minimum velocity associated with the stagnation point. These velocity data provided insight for explaining the trends found in the experimental results. The data demonstrate the ability to use a branched nozzle inlet extension to control the location of polymer deposition during the iCVD process.
Influence of local chemical environment and external perturbations of porphyrins on surfaces
Authors: Ortiz-Garcia José J. , Quardokus Rebecca C.
Published: March 2023

Porphyrins and tetrapyrroles play crucial roles in biological processes such as photosynthesis and molecular transport. These nature-based molecules have found application in artificial systems, such as sensing, catalysis, and 2D/3D networks. They are ideal building blocks due to their chemical diversity, stability, and ability to self-assemble on surfaces. Derivatization of the peripheral positions allows for the rational design of magnetic, catalytic, and photochemical properties. Due to this, porphyrins have been used in a variety of natural and artificial systems such as photodynamic therapies and dye-sensitized solar cells. Recently, much work and attention have focused on using specific porphyrin and molecular relatives for molecular electronics due to their robust nature, functionality, and synthesis. The focus of this review is to summarize the mechanisms that affect the internal structure and properties of the molecules and how changes in the local chemical environment alter the electronic properties of the porphyrin. We review the current state of the literature concerning the intermolecular and surface-adsorbate interactions that dictate self-assembly. We will assess the effects that molecule-molecule and molecule-substrate interactions play on the molecule’s properties and the effects that external forces have on the molecular properties. The goal of this review is to dissect the mechanisms responsible for the unique properties that arise from porphyrinic systems adsorbed on surfaces.
Surface functionalization of microporous carbon fibers by vapor phase methods for CO2 capture
Authors: Prünte Stephan , van Straaten Gerben , van Eyck Dries , Diaz-Morales Oscar , Dijck Jeroen Van , de Neve Hans , Creatore Mariadriana
Published: March 2023

The removal of excess CO2 from the atmosphere is expected to play a major role in the mitigation of global warming. Solid-state adsorbents, consisting of CO2-binding functionalities on porous supports, can provide high CO2 capture capacities with low energy requirements. In this contribution, we report on the vapor-phase functionalization of porous carbon fibers with amine functionalities. Functionalization occurs either via direct exposure to cyclic azasilane molecules (2,2-dimethoxy-1,6-diaza-2-silacyclooctane) or by the atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 followed by exposure to azasilane. XPS analysis and SEM/energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) measurements confirmed Al2O3 deposition and amine functionalization. Yet, the two different functionalization approaches led to different amine loadings and distinct differences in porosity upon functionalization, which affected CO2 capture. Combining Al2O3 and amine functionalization resulted in fast CO2 sorption with superior capturing efficiency. In contrast, direct functionalization resulted in strong reduction of the surface area of the porous support and limited gas exchange. We attribute the superior capture efficiency to the porosity level achieved when combining Al2O3 and amine functionalization demonstrating that this approach might be valuable for compact high-throughput direct air, CO2 capture systems.
Long-QT mutations in KCNE1 modulate the 17β-estradiol response of Kv7.1/KCNE1
Authors: Erlandsdotter Lisa-Marie , Giammarino Lucilla , Halili Azemine , Nikesjö Johan , Gréen Henrik , Odening Katja E. , Liin Sara I.
Published: March 2023

Estradiol (17

$
β
$

-E2) is implicated in higher arrhythmia risk of women with congenital or acquired long-QT syndrome (LQTS) compared to men. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, and little is known about the impact of LQTS-associated mutations. We show that 17

$
β
$

-E2 inhibits the human cardiac Kv7.1/KCNE1 channel expressed in
Xenopus
oocytes. We find that the 17

$
β
$

-E2 effect depends on the Kv7.1 to KCNE1 stoichiometry, and we reveal a critical function of the KCNE1 carboxyl terminus for the effect. LQTS-associated mutations in the KCNE1 carboxyl terminus show a range of responses to 17

$
β
$

-E2, from a wild-type like response to impaired or abolished response. Together, this study increases our understanding of the mechanistic basis for 17

$
β
$

-E2 inhibition of Kv7.1/KCNE1 and demonstrates mutation-dependent responses to 17

$
β
$

-E2. These findings suggest that the 17

$
β
$

-E2 effect on Kv7.1/KCNE1 might contribute to the higher arrhythmia risk of women, particularly in carriers with specific LQTS-associated mutations.
Signal recognition particle receptor-β (SR-β) coordinates cotranslational N-glycosylation
Authors: Phoomak Chatchai , Rinis Natalie , Baro Marta , Shrimal Shiteshu , Bennett Daniel , Shaffer Scott A. , Lehrman Mark , Gilmore Reid , Contessa Joseph N.
Published: March 2023

Proteins destined for the secretory compartment of the cell are cotranslationally translocated into the endoplasmic reticulum. The majority of these proteins are N-glycosylated, a co- and posttranslational modification that ensures proper protein folding, stability, solubility, and cellular localization. Here, we show that the

β

subunit of the signal recognition particle receptor (SR) is required for assembly of the N-glycosylation–competent translocon. We report that guanine analog chemical probes identified by high-throughput screening or mutation of the SR-

β

guanosine triphosphate binding site cause an N-glycosylation–deficient phenotype. Neither method alters the association of SR-

α

with SR-

β

, but both approaches reduce the association of SR-

β

with the oligosaccharyltransferase complex. These experiments demonstrate that SR-

β

has a previously unrecognized function coordinating endoplasmic reticulum translation with N-glycosylation.
Emergent second-harmonic generation in van der Waals heterostructure of bilayer MoS
2
and monolayer graphene
Authors: Zhang Mingwen , Han Nannan , Zhang Jiachen , Wang Jing , Chen Xiaoqing , Zhao Jianlin , Gan Xuetao
Published: March 2023

Van der Waals (vdW) stacking of two-dimensional (2D) materials to create artificial structures has enabled remarkable discoveries and novel properties in fundamental physics. Here, we report that vdW stacking of centrosymmetric 2D materials, e.g., bilayer MoS
2
(2LM) and monolayer graphene (1LG), could support remarkable second-harmonic generation (SHG). The required centrosymmetry breaking for second-order hyperpolarizability arises from the interlayer charge transfer between 2LM and 1LG and the imbalanced charge distribution in 2LM, which are verified by first-principles calculations, Raman spectroscopy, and polarization-resolved SHG. The strength of SHG from 2LM/1LG is of the same order of magnitude as that from the monolayer MoS
2
, which is well recognized with strong second-order nonlinearity. The emergent SHG reveals that the interlayer charge transfer can effectively modify the symmetry and nonlinear optical properties of 2D heterostructures. It also indicates the great opportunity of SHG spectroscopy for characterizing interlayer coupling in vdW heterostructures.
Beating thermal noise in a dynamic signal measurement by a nanofabricated cavity optomechanical sensor
Authors: Wang Mingkang , Perez-Morelo Diego J. , Ramer Georg , Pavlidis Georges , Schwartz Jeffrey J. , Yu Liya , Ilic Robert , Centrone Andrea , Aksyuk Vladimir A.
Published: March 2023

Thermal fluctuations often impose both fundamental and practical measurement limits on high-performance sensors, motivating the development of techniques that bypass the limitations imposed by thermal noise outside cryogenic environments. Here, we theoretically propose and experimentally demonstrate a measurement method that reduces the effective transducer temperature and improves the measurement precision of a dynamic impulse response signal. Thermal noise–limited, integrated cavity optomechanical atomic force microscopy probes are used in a photothermal-induced resonance measurement to demonstrate an effective temperature reduction by a factor of ≈25, i.e., from room temperature down as low as ≈12 K, without cryogens. The method improves the experimental measurement precision and throughput by >2×, approaching the theoretical limit of ≈3.5× improvement for our experimental conditions. The general applicability of this method to dynamic measurements leveraging thermal noise–limited harmonic transducers will have a broad impact across a variety of measurement platforms and scientific fields.
Surface changes observed on a Venusian volcano during the Magellan mission
Authors: Herrick Robert R. , Hensley Scott
Published: March 2023

Venus has a geologically young surface, but it is unknown whether it has ongoing active volcanism. From 1990 to 1992, the Magellan spacecraft imaged the planet’s surface, using synthetic aperture radar. We examined volcanic areas on Venus that were imaged two or three times by Magellan and identified an ~2.2-square-kilometer volcanic vent that changed shape in the 8-month interval between two radar images. Additional volcanic flows downhill from the vent are visible in the second-epoch images, although we cannot rule out that they were present but invisible in the first epoch because of differences in imaging geometry. We interpret these results as evidence of ongoing volcanic activity on Venus.
A systems approach points to a therapeutic role for retinoids in asparaginase-associated pancreatitis
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Yu , Saito Toshie , Sarangdhar Mayur , Abu-El-Haija Maisam , Wen Li , Lee Bomi , Yu Mang , Lipata Den A. , Manohar Murli , Barakat Monique T. , Contrepois Kévin , Tran Thai Hoa , Theoret Yves , Bo Na , Ding Ying , Stevenson Kristen , Ladas Elena J. , Silverman Lewis B. , Quadro Loredana , Anthony Tracy G. , Jegga Anil G. , Husain Sohail Z.
Published: March 2023

Among drug-induced adverse events, pancreatitis is life-threatening and results in substantial morbidity. A prototype example is the pancreatitis caused by asparaginase, a crucial drug used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Here, we used a systems approach to identify the factors affecting asparaginase-associated pancreatitis (AAP). Connectivity Map analysis of the transcriptomic data showed that asparaginase-induced gene signatures were potentially reversed by retinoids (vitamin A and its analogs). Analysis of a large electronic health record database (TriNetX) and the U.S. Federal Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System demonstrated a reduction in AAP risk with concomitant exposure to vitamin A. Furthermore, we performed a global metabolomic screening of plasma samples from 24 individuals with ALL who developed pancreatitis (cases) and 26 individuals with ALL who did not develop pancreatitis (controls), before and after a single exposure to asparaginase. Screening from this discovery cohort revealed that plasma carotenoids were lower in the cases than in controls. This finding was validated in a larger external cohort. A 30-day dietary recall showed that the cases received less dietary vitamin A than the controls did. In mice, asparaginase administration alone was sufficient to reduce circulating and hepatic retinol. Based on these data, we propose that circulating retinoids protect against pancreatic inflammation and that asparaginase reduces circulating retinoids. Moreover, we show that AAP is more likely to develop with reduced dietary vitamin A intake. The systems approach taken for AAP provides an impetus to examine the role of dietary vitamin A supplementation in preventing or treating AAP.
Pharmacological Elevation of Cellular Dihydrosphingomyelin Provides a Novel Antiviral Strategy against West Nile Virus Infection
Authors: Jiménez de Oya Nereida , San-Félix Ana , Casasampere Mireia , Blázquez Ana-Belén , Mingo-Casas Patricia , Escribano-Romero Estela , Calvo-Pinilla Eva , Poderoso Teresa , Casas Josefina , Saiz Juan-Carlos , Pérez-Pérez María-Jesús , Martín-Acebes Miguel A.
Published: March 2023

The flavivirus life cycle is strictly dependent on cellular lipid metabolism. Polyphenols like gallic acid and its derivatives are promising lead compounds for new therapeutic agents as they can exert multiple pharmacological activities, including the alteration of lipid metabolism.
Combined Quantification and Deep Serotyping for Salmonella Risk Profiling in Broiler Flocks
Authors: Obe Tomi , Siceloff Amy T. , Crowe Megan G. , Scott H. Morgan , Shariat Nikki W.
Published: March 2023

Nearly one in five foodborne
Salmonella
illnesses are derived from chicken, making it the largest single food category to cause salmonellosis and indicating a need for effective pathogen mitigation. Although industry has successfully reduced
Salmonella
incidence in poultry products, there has not been a concurrent reduction in human salmonellosis linked to chicken consumption.
Sound the (Smaller) Alarm: The Triphosphate Magic Spot Nucleotide pGpp
Authors: Malik Areej , Hept Megan A. , Purcell Erin B.
Published: March 2023

It has recently become evident that the bacterial stringent response is regulated by a triphosphate alarmone (pGpp) as well as the canonical tetra- and pentaphosphate alarmones ppGpp and pppGpp [together, (p)ppGpp]. Often dismissed in the past as an artifact or degradation product, pGpp has been confirmed as a deliberate endpoint of multiple synthetic pathways utilizing GMP, (p)ppGpp, or GDP/GTP as precursors.
RNF7 Induces Skeletal Muscle Cell Apoptosis and Arrests Cell Autophagy via Upregulation of THBS1 and Inactivation of the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway in a Rat Sepsis Model
Authors: Lei Yu , Jin Xiaoyuan , Sun Mingli , Ji Zhiyong
Published: March 2023

Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been highlighted for extensive functionality in sepsis. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of RNF7 in the progression of sepsis.
Strategies for Updating Piperacillin-Tazobactam Breakpoints
Authors: Bobenchik April M.
Published: March 2023

In this issue of theJournal of Clinical Microbiology, C. Manuel, R. Maynard, A. Abbott, K. Adams, et al. (J Clin Microbiol 61:e01617-22, 2023,https://doi.org/10.1128/JCM.01617-22) describe a multisite study evaluation of piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP) MIC testing on three U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) devices compared to the reference broth microdilution method for organisms belonging toEnterobacterales.
A Picture is Worth 1000 Words: Teaching Science Communication with Graphical Abstract Assignments
Authors: Agrawal Swati , Ulrich Paul
Published: March 2023

An important part of scientific training in undergraduate curriculum involves teaching students how to effectively communicate in science. Scientific writing and oral presentations are important parts of most science classes.
Draft Genome Sequence of a
Delftia
sp., a Member of an Electroactive Community Enriched from Wastewater from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India
Authors: Mahar Nirmal Singh , Aiyer Kartik , Juwayria  , Doyle Lucinda Elizabeth , Gupta Ishaan
Published: March 2023

The draft genome sequence of
Delftia
sp. is reported here. The genome was recovered from a mixed-species electroactive community in a microbial fuel cell that had been inoculated with wastewater from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India. Sequencing was performed using Nanopore technology.
The Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier Coupling Glycolysis and the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle Is Required for the Asexual Reproduction of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Lyu Congcong , Chen Yukun , Meng Yanan , Yang Jichao , Ye Shu , Niu Zhipeng , EI-Debs Issam , Gupta Nishith , Shen Bang
Published: March 2023

T. gondii
is a zoonotic parasite capable of infecting many warm-blooded organisms, including humans. Among others, a feature that allows it to parasitize multiple hosts is its exceptional metabolic plasticity.
The early opening of the Equatorial Atlantic gateway and the evolution of Cretaceous peak warming
Authors: Dummann Wolf , Hofmann Peter , Herrle Jens O. , Frank Martin , Wagner Thomas
Published: March 2023

The Cretaceous opening of the Equatorial Atlantic gateway (EAG) is considered a driver of major changes in global oceanography, carbon cycling, and climate. However, the early stages of EAG opening are poorly understood. We present seawater Nd-isotope, bulk geochemical, and micropaleontological data from two South Atlantic drill cores that constrain the onset of shallow (<500 m) and intermediate (<~1000 m) water mass exchange across the EAG to 113 Ma and 107 Ma, respectively. Deep water mass exchange (>2000 m) was enabled by at least ca. 100 Ma, as much as 10 m.y. earlier than previously estimated. In response to EAG opening, deep-water ventilation in the South Atlantic, North Atlantic, and Tethys basins intensified, thereby triggering basin-scale reductions in organic carbon burial. We propose that the consequent drop in carbon sequestration in concert with increased atmospheric CO2 fluxes from subduction zones acted as major amplifiers of global warming that culminated in peak greenhouse conditions during the mid-Cretaceous.
Supplemental Material: Permian to Triassic protolith ages of type locality eclogites in the Eastern Alps: Implications for the opening of the Meliata back-arc basin
Authors: Chang Ruihong
Published: March 2023

Analytical methods with zircon U-Pb geochronology, geochemistry, and Hf isotopic analysis, and whole-rock geochemical analysis; geochemical and isotopic data in (Tables S1–S7); microphotographs of studied eclogite samples, cathodoluminescence images, supplemental U-Pb and Hf isotopic plots of zircons, and supplemental whole rock geochemical plots.
Lung Cancer App (LuCApp) study protocol: a randomised controlled trial to evaluate a mobile supportive care app for patients with metastatic lung cancer
Authors: Ciani Oriana , Cucciniello Maria , Petracca Francesco , Apolone Giovanni , Merlini Giampaolo , Novello Silvia , Pedrazzoli Paolo , Zilembo Nicoletta , Broglia Chiara , Capelletto Enrica , Garassino Marina , Nicod Elena , Tarricone Rosanna
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Mobile health technologies may enhance patient empowerment and data integration along the whole care continuum. However, these interventions pose relatively new regulatory, organisational and technological challenges that limit appropriate evaluation. Lung Cancer App (LuCApp) is a mobile application developed by researchers and clinicians to promote real-time monitoring and management of patients’ symptoms. This protocol illustrates a clinical trial designed to evaluate the usability, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of LuCApp versus standard of care.

Methods and analysis

This is a 24-week two-arm non-blinded multicentre parallel randomised controlled trial. A total of 120 adult patients diagnosed with small or non-small cell lung cancer and eligible for pharmaceutical treatments will be allocated 1:1 to receiving either standard care or LuCApp in addition to standard care at three oncology sites in Northern Italy. During the treatment period, LuCApp allows daily monitoring and grading of a list of symptoms, which trigger alerts to the physicians in case predefined severity thresholds are met. Patients will complete a baseline assessment and a set of valid and reliable patient-reported outcome measures every 3±1 weeks, and up to 24 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in the score of the Trial Outcome Index in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (Lung) questionnaire from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes are the Lung Cancer Subscale, the EuroQoL 5D-5L questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form, the app usability questionnaire and the Zarit Burden Interview for the main caregiver.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial received ethical approval from the three clinical sites. Trial results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Conclusions

This trial makes a timely contribution to test a mobile application designed to improve the quality of life and delivery of care for patients with lung cancer.

Trial registration number

NCT03512015; Pre-results.
Counselling-based psychosocial intervention to improve the mental health of abused pregnant women: a protocol for randomised controlled feasibility trial in a tertiary hospital in eastern Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Diksha , Baird Kathleen , Saito Amornrat , Rijal Pappu , Pokharel Rita , Anderson Debra
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The strong correlation between domestic and family violence (DFV) and mental health has been well documented in studies. Pregnancy is a period when both DFV and mental distress tend to occur and/or accentuate. Although limited, available evidence from developed countries has shown continual support and education as psychological first aid that can reduce DFV and improve mental health. However, there is significantly less number of studies from resource-constrained countries; thus, there continues to be a substantial gap in knowledge and awareness regarding effective interventions for DFV.

Methods and analysis

A two-arm randomised trial with a nested qualitative study has been planned to assess feasibility and treatment effect estimates of a counselling-based psychosocial intervention among pregnant women with a history of abuse. A total of 140 pregnant women who meet the inclusion criteria will be recruited into the study. Block randomisation will be used to allocate women equally into two groups. The intervention group will receive a counselling session, an information booklet and continuous support by a researcher, while women in the control group will receive contact information of local support services. Feasibility measures, such as rates of recruitment, consent and retention, will be calculated. Qualitative interviews with participants and healthcare providers will explore the acceptability and usability of the intervention. Outcome measures, such as psychological distress, quality of life, social support and self-efficacy, will be measured at baseline, 4 weeks postintervention and 6 weeks postpartum.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has obtained ethical approval from the Griffith University Human Research Ethics Committee, the Nepal Health Research Council and the Institutional Review Board of a tertiary hospital in Dharan, Nepal. The findings will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations and will be used to inform a future multicentre trial.

Trial registration number

12618000307202; Pre-results.
Natural history of tinnitus in adults: a cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis
Authors: Dawes Piers , Newall John , Stockdale David , Baguley David M
Published: March 2023

Objective

To assess incidence and changes in tinnitus and bothersome tinnitus as well as associated risk factors in a large sample of UK adults.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

UK.

Participants

For cross-sectional analysis, a group of 168 348 participants aged between 40 and 69 years with hearing and tinnitus data from the UK Biobank resource. Longitudinal analysis included a subset of 4746 people who attended a 4-year retest assessment.

Main outcome measures

Presence and bothersomeness of tinnitus.

Results

17.7% and 5.8% of participants reported tinnitus or bothersome tinnitus, respectively. The 4-year incidence of tinnitus was 8.7%. Multivariate logistic regression models suggested that age, hearing difficulties, work noise exposure, ototoxic medication and neuroticism were all positively associated with both tinnitus and bothersome tinnitus. Reduced odds of tinnitus, but not bothersome tinnitus, was seen in alcohol drinkers versus non-drinkers. Male gender was associated with increased odds of tinnitus, while female gender was associated with increased odds of bothersome tinnitus. At follow-up, of those originally reporting tinnitus, 18.3% reported no tinnitus. Of those still reporting tinnitus, 9% reported improvement and 9% reported tinnitus becoming more bothersome, with the rest unchanged. Male gender and alcohol consumption were associated with tinnitus being reported less bothersome, and hearing difficulties were associated with the odds of tinnitus being reported as more bothersome.

Conclusions

This study is one of the few to provide data on the natural history of tinnitus in a non-clinical population, suggesting that resolution is relatively uncommon, with improvement and worsening of symptoms equally likely. There was limited evidence for any modifiable lifestyle factors being associated with changes in tinnitus symptoms. In view of the largely persistent nature of tinnitus, public health strategies should focus on: (1) primary prevention and (2) managing symptoms in people that have tinnitus and monitoring changes in bothersomeness.
Mindfulness-based programmes and ‘bigger than self’ issues: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Callen-Davies Robert John , Bristow Jamie , Gazder Taranah , Griffith Gemma M , Noorani Yasmin , Crane Rebecca Susan
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Mindfulness-based programmes (MBPs) have an established, growing evidence base as interventions to optimise health, well-being and performance of individual participants. Emerging evidence suggests that MBPs also enhance prosociality, encouraging individuals to contribute to positive social change. This study focuses on the potential of MBPs to facilitate development of participants’ inner resources that support prosocial shifts. The review seeks to detect shifts in MBP benefit from individual toward ‘bigger than self’, informing and empowering individual and collective responses to complex societal and global issues. The review aims to map current literature on MBPs and social change, into a descriptive overview with commentary on quality, trends, theoretical models and gaps, and on how training in MBPs potentially enables individual and collective responses to societal and global issues. Recommendations for future directions for researchers seeking to advance this evidence base, and practitioners developing innovative MBPs for this purpose will be provided.

Methods and analysis

A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature will be undertaken and reported on according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidance. Systematic searches of four scientific databases will be undertaken to identify potentially eligible articles published from all time to current date. Data will be extracted using an extraction template and analysed descriptively using narrative synthesis.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review involves no human participants, so ethics is not required. Findings will be shared through professional networks, conference presentations and journal publication.
Feasibility evaluation of the Reaching Out to Kids with Emotional Trauma (ROcKET) intervention in an elementary school: a single-arm, single-centre, feasibility study based on the RE-AIM framework
Authors: McMahon Ellen , Van Wyk Chelsea , González Peña Tavia , Samuels Lauren R , Teeters Leah A , Worsley Sarah B , Heerman William J
Published: March 2023

Objective

The study purpose was to describe feasibility of implementation of the Reaching Out to Kids with Emotional Trauma (ROcKET) intervention. We hypothesised that the ROcKET Intervention would be feasible in a poor resource school.

Design

We performed a single-arm, single-centr feasibility study of an intervention pilot, based on the RE-AIM framework.

Setting

The intervention was delivered in a single K-4th elementary charter school in the Nashville, TN area, in a low-resource community.

Participants

57 elementary school children attending our partner school and reporting exposure to at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE) and their parents.

Interventions

The Reaching Out to Kids with Emotional Trauma (ROcKET) intervention is a school-based multilevel intervention (individual child, family and school) that promotes positive health behaviours in children who have been exposed to ACEs.

Outcomes

Outcomes were gathered qualitatively via focus groups. The primary outcome was feasibility. The secondary outcomes were implementation outcomes according to the RE-AIM framework, including Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption and Implementation.

Results

Of 105 eligible children, 57 children and their parents participated (54%) with 31 (54%) girls, 47 (82%) Black/African American, 5 (9%) Hispanic and 5 (9%) white. The school staff implemented all planned ROcKET sessions with >90% fidelity in each session, and 52 (91%) of children who completed the final intervention session went on to complete 6 month follow-up assessments. The average attendance at the in-school child sessions was 57 students (87%), and 35 (61%) of parents attended at least one family session, with 25 (44%) of parents attending at least half of the family sessions. 13 (23%) parents participated in the focus groups. Qualitative data suggested high parent participant satisfaction, uptake of positive health behaviours targeted by the intervention and increased quality of life.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the ROcKET intervention was feasible and acceptably delivered in a local elementary school with high reach to low-income and minority populations. These data suggest that schools, especially those serving low-income and minority children, can be an appropriate avenue for interventions designed to address health disparities. Data from this study will be used to advise a pilot study of the intervention.
Application of complexity theory in health and social care research: a scoping review
Authors: Carroll Áine , Collins Claire , McKenzie Jane , Stokes Diarmuid , Darley Andrew
Published: March 2023

Background

Complexity theory has been chosen by many authors as a suitable lens through which to examine health and social care. Despite its potential value, many empirical investigations apply the theory in a tokenistic manner without engaging with its underlying concepts and underpinnings.

Objectives

The aim of this scoping review is to synthesise the literature on empirical studies that have centred on the application of complexity theory to understand health and social care provision.

Methods

This scoping review considered primary research using complexity theory-informed approaches, published in English between 2012 and 2021. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, PSYCHINFO, the NHS Economic Evaluation Database, and the Health Economic Evaluations Database were searched. In addition, a manual search of the reference lists of relevant articles was conducted. Data extraction was conducted using Covidence software and a data extraction form was created to produce a descriptive summary of the results, addressing the objectives and research question. The review used the revised Arksey and O’Malley framework and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

Results

2021 studies were initially identified with a total of 61 articles included for extraction. Complexity theory in health and social care research is poorly defined and described and was most commonly applied as a theoretical and analytical framework. The full breadth of the health and social care continuum was not represented in the identified articles, with the majority being healthcare focused.

Discussion

Complexity theory is being increasingly embraced in health and care research. The heterogeneity of the literature regarding the application of complexity theory made synthesis challenging. However, this scoping review has synthesised the most recent evidence and contributes to translational systems research by providing guidance for future studies.

Conclusion

The study of complex health and care systems necessitates methods of interpreting dynamic prcesses which requires qualitative and longitudinal studies with abductive reasoning. The authors provide guidance on conducting complexity-informed primary research that seeks to promote rigor and transparency in the area.

Registration

The scoping review protocol was registered at Open Science Framework, and the review protocol was published at BMJ Open (https://bit.ly/3Ex1Inu).
Association between maternal multimorbidity and preterm birth, low birth weight and small for gestational age: a prospective birth cohort study from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Nakanishi Kentaro , Saijo Yasuaki , Yoshioka Eiji , Sato Yukihiro , Kato Yasuhito , Nagaya Ken , Takahashi Satoru , Ito Yoshiya , Kobayashi Sumitaka , Miyashita Chihiro , Ikeda-Araki Atsuko , Kishi Reiko
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Multimorbidity is defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic physical or psychological conditions within an individual. The association between maternal multimorbidity and adverse perinatal outcomes such as preterm delivery and low birth weight has not been well studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate this association.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study using data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study of pregnant women between 2011 and 2014. Those with data on chronic maternal conditions were included in the study and categorised as having no chronic condition, one chronic condition or multimorbidities. The primary outcomes were the incidence of preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW) and small for gestational age (SGA). Adjusted logistic regression was performed to estimate ORs (aORs) and 95% CIs.

Results

Of the 104 062 fetal records, 86 885 singleton pregnant women were analysed. The median maternal age and body mass index were 31 years and 20.5 kg/m2, respectively. The prevalence of pregnant women with one or more chronic conditions was 40.2%. The prevalence of maternal multimorbidity was 6.3%, and that of PTB, LBW, and SGA were 4.6%, 8.1%, and 7.5%, respectively. Pre-pregnancy underweight women were the most common, observed in 15.6% of multimorbidity cases, followed by domestic violence from intimate partner in 13.0%. Maternal multimorbidity was significantly associated with PTB (aOR 1.50; 95% CI 1.33–1.69), LBW (aOR 1.49; 95% CI 1.35–1.63) and SGA (aOR 1.33; 95% CI 1.20–1.46).

Conclusion

Maternal multimorbidity was associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, including PTB, LBW and SGA. The risk of adverse perinatal outcomes tends to increase with a rise in the number of chronic maternal conditions. Multimorbidity becomes more prevalent among pregnant women, making our findings important for preconception counselling.
Vertex operator for generalized Kac–Moody algebras associated to the two-sphere and the two-torus
Authors: Campoamor-Stursberg Rutwig , Rausch de Traubenberg Michel
Published: March 2023

We pursue our study of generalized Kac–Moody and Virasoro algebras defined on compact homogeneous manifolds. Extending the well-known vertex operator in the case of the two-torus or the two-sphere, we obtain explicit bosonic realizations of the semi-direct product of the extension of Kac–Moody and Virasoro algebras on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. As for the fermionic realization previously constructed, in order to have well defined algebras, we introduce, beyond the usual normal ordering prescription, a regulator and regularize infinite sums by means of the Riemann [Formula: see text]-function.
Searching for new physics in the differential decay width of a Λb semi-leptonic decay
Authors: Di Salvo E. , Ajaltouni Z. J.
Published: March 2023

We propose to investigate the effects of new physics in the semi-leptonic sequential decay [Formula: see text]. First, we write the general, model-independent, non-covariant expression of the differential decay width of the process. Then, we calculate that observable according to three different types of new physics interactions, which might explain the tension of data with the Standard Model predictions. We find that some coefficients of the differential decay width are sensitive to the kind of interaction that is assumed. The measurements that we suggest seem to be feasible.
High-energy nucleus–nucleus collision and halo radii in different approaches of Glauber theory
Authors: Shabelski Yu. M. , Shuvaev A. G.
Published: March 2023

The complete Glauber calculation of the differential cross-sections of [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] and halo nuclei on [Formula: see text] scattering was performed using the previously proposed in Y. M. Shabelski and A. G. Shuvaev [Phys. Rev. C 104, 064607 (2021); Mod. Phys. Lett. A 37, 2250081 (2022)] method of generating function. The results are different as compared with the similar calculations in the optical model and the rigid target approximation. The halo nuclei radii extracted from the scattering data via the complete Glauber analysis come out to be larger than those obtained in the approximate approaches.