bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of CCN activation for fog forecasting and its representation in the two‐moment microphysical scheme LIMA
Authors: Vié B. , Ducongé L. , Lac C. , Bergot T. , Price J.
Published: July 2024

The work presented in this article studies the impact of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activation for fog forecasting and improves its parameterization in the LIMA (Liquid, Ice, Multiple Aerosols) two‐moment microphysical scheme, building upon the Local And Non‐local Fog EXperiment (LANFEX) field campaign observations, specifically the intensive observation period (IOP) 1 and the DEMISTIFY intercomparison. Large‐eddy simulations were performed with the Meso‐NH model, first using a prognostic supersaturation allowing us to compute the number of activated CCN at each time step, and then with the usual saturation adjustment hypothesis and a diagnostic maximum supersaturation. The prognostic supersaturation method provided very good results, similar to those from earlier simulations of this case using a bin scheme, and was thus used as a reference. In contrast, the diagnostic maximum supersaturation method strongly overestimated droplet numbers and produced a too‐thick fog. Thus, improvements to the maximum supersaturation diagnostic were proposed, by (1) revising the temperature tendency and (2) accounting for pre‐existing cloud droplets in the activation parameterization. These improvements resulted in a simulation in good agreement with observations and the reference simulation, and are promising for use in numerical weather prediction systems with a lower resolution and/or a longer time step.
Indigenous knowledge and sustainable development: Rüza—A traditional water management practice in Phek district, Nagaland
Authors: Das Jyoti
Published: July 2024

In a world replete with social inequalities, water is increasingly becoming liquid gold that acts as a socio‐economic divider of the capitalist driven Anthropocene. Both geography and politics combine in diverse ways to form differential lived‐in experiences for communities across the globe in terms of where they stand in the world map of water crises and sustainable development. This study used semiotics and post‐development theory to propose a nonarbitrary symbol of sustainable development and to analyse the relationship between Western science and non‐Western‐indigenous practices. The objective was to broaden our conception of science and development. The researcher adopted mixed methods approach, comprising survey and ethnography, to draw an anthropological account of Rüza, a traditional water management practice in Phek district of Nagaland, India. The study has tried to contribute to policy discourse on inclusive development by suggesting operationalization of sustainable science based on pluriversal knowledge systems.
X‐ray standing wave assisted XANES for depth dependent chemical state analysis of Cr in Cr2O3/Cr bilayer structure
Authors: Trivedi Ayushi , Alam Md. Akhlak , Khooha Ajay , Dhawan Rajnish , Sharma Rajendra Kumar , Tripathi Shilpa , Tiwari Manoj Kumar
Published: July 2024

We report the detailed depth‐dependent structural and chemical analysis of the Cr2O3/Cr bilayer structure deposited on Si ˂100˃ substrate. The non‐destructive simultaneous X‐ray reflectivity and grazing incidence X‐ray fluorescence measurements were used for this purpose. Corresponding variation in the chemical state of Cr atoms as a function of depth has been studied using X‐ray standing wave (XSW) assisted X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) measurements. Various oxidation states of Cr atoms present in the Cr2O3/Cr bilayer structure were determined using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Depth‐resolved XANES measurements confirmed the presence of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) and hydroxide (Cr (OH)3) at the top surface of the Cr2O3/Cr bilayer structure. The results also reveal the presence of metallic Cr along with its compounds Cr2O3 and Cr (OH)3 at the interface medium, showing significant mixing between the Cr2O3 and Cr layers. Our results clearly demonstrate that the XSW assisted XANES technique is extremely efficient for determining the variation of chemical states at the surface, interface, and different depths of a thin film structure. Such types of analysis are particularly useful for differentiating the presence of a metal from its own oxides, even at higher depths inside a thin film medium.
Is knowledge really the most important strategic resource? A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Bergh Donald D. , D'Oria Laura , Crook T. Russell , Roccapriore Ashley
Published: July 2024

Research Summary

The knowledge‐based view (KBV) claims that knowledge is the most important strategic resource because it is the strongest determinant of firm competitive advantage and the glue that pulls resources together. We examine this assertion through a meta‐analysis of the accumulated evidence on the relationships among strategic resources and firm performance (stock market, financial performance, and growth). Findings from 348 samples reporting 248,136 firm‐level observations show that knowledge resources have the highest positive association with all three performance dimensions, with the highest positive relationship with growth, followed by market and then financial performance. Further, knowledge may serve as a foundational resource by augmenting other strategic resources and helping make firms different. These findings support the KBV's core prediction that knowledge resources offer superior strategic value.

Managerial Summary

Managers need to understand what resources yield the strongest and most consistent returns. We examined the often‐invoked claim that knowledge is the most important resource associated with firm success. Our study combines evidence from over 300 samples and finds that knowledge‐based resources are consistently associated with the strongest profit, stock market, and growth returns relative to other types of resource investments. For managers, the message is clear—acquire, integrate, retain, and motivate knowledge‐related resources because doing so pays off.
Collaborative CRISPR‐Cas System‐Enabled Detection of Circulating Circular RNA for Reliable Monitoring of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Sha Lingjun , Yao Jianhua , Yang Shuang , Hu Meiyu , Zhou Qiulian , Zhao Jing , Bei Yihua , Cao Ya
Published: July 2024

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the major causes of death worldwide, posing significant global health challenges. Circular RNA (circRNA) has recently emerged as a potential diagnostic biomarker for AMI, providing valuable information for timely medical care. In this work, a new electrochemical method for circRNA detection by engineering a collaborative CRISPR‐Cas system is developed. This system integrates the unique circRNA‐targeting ability with cascade trans‐cleavage activities of Cas effectors, using an isothermal primer exchange reaction as the bridge. Using cZNF292, a circulating circRNA biomarker for AMI is identified by this group; as a model, the collaborative CRISPR‐Cas system‐based method exhibits excellent accuracy and sensitivity with a low detection limit of 2.13 × 10−15 m. Moreover, the method demonstrates a good diagnostic performance for AMI when analyzing whole blood samples. Therefore, the method may provide new insight into the detection of circRNA biomarkers and is expected to have great potential in AMI diagnosis in the future.
Unveiling Energy Conversion Mechanisms and Regulation Strategies in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ai Zhenhai , Ma Tianshu , Zhang Yuqi , Bao Yining , Shi Luolei , Yang Zhenhai , Zhan Yaohui , Qin Linling , Cao Guoyang , Li Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Despite recent revolutionary advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology, further improving cell efficiencies toward their Shockley‐Queisser (SQ) limits remains challenging due to inherent optical, electrical, and thermal losses. Currently, most research focuses on improving optical and electrical performance through maximizing spectral utilization and suppressing carrier recombination losses, while there is a serious lack of effective opto‐electro‐thermal coupled management, which, however, is crucial for further improving PV performance and the practical application of PV devices. In this article, the energy conversion and loss processes of a PV device (with a specific focus on perovskite solar cells) are detailed under both steady‐state and transient processes through rigorous opto‐electro‐thermal coupling simulation. By innovatively coupling multi‐physical behaviors of photon management, carrier/ion transport, and thermodynamics, it meticulously quantifies and analyzes energy losses across optical, electrical, and thermal domains, identifies heat components amenable to regulation, and proposes specific regulatory means, evaluates their impact on device efficiency and operating temperature, offering valuable insights to advance PV technology for practical applications.
The mechanical and microstructural performance of waste textile and cardboard materials in concrete
Authors: Haigh Robert , Sandanayake Malindu , Joseph Paul , Yaghoubi Ehsan , Vrcelj Zora
Published: July 2024

Waste fiber reinforced concrete is gaining recognition as a high‐performance construction material, offering notable load‐bearing capacity, corrosion resistance, and enhanced durability features. As the building and construction industry focuses on sustainable practices, fibers derived from waste materials create an opportunity to be utilized further in composite designs. This study explores the tensile, compressive, and flexural behaviors of cardboard fibers (kraft fibers) and textile polyester fibers in concrete materials. The composite microstructure is also investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to measure the bonding performance of the fibers within the cementitious matrix. Four mix designs were created using 2.5% textile fibers as a reinforcement agent and 5% silica fume modified kraft fibers (SFKFs) as a partial cement replacement. The combination of fibers achieved 44 MPa compressive strength, equaling the control. Tensile strength was enhanced by 5% when using the combination of the two fibers, achieving 3.58 MPa in comparison to 3.41 MPa. However, flexural strength was reduced among all fibrous concrete materials. SEM images distinguished the natural and synthetic characteristics associated with the two fibers within the cementitious matrix. Namely, demonstrating the chemical bonding of SFKFs in comparison with the physical bonding properties of the textile fibers. This study serves as a valuable resource for future investigations and the broader adoption of binary waste fiber composite designs in cementitious composite applications.
Assessment of computational fluid dynamic as a design tool for estimation of wind loads on unconventional skyscrapers in urban environment
Authors: Lu Bin , Li Qiu‐Sheng , Han Xu‐Liang
Published: July 2024

Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) has not been widely accepted as a design tool in current wind‐resistant structural design practices due to its contentious accuracy. To promote the application of CFD in wind‐resistant structural design, the accuracy of CFD should be comprehensively validated. However, most previous validation studies were focused on isolated generic or regular‐shaped buildings. This paper evaluates the accuracy of large eddy simulation (LES) in predicting the wind loads on a 600‐m‐high supertall building with a complex appearance in a realistic urban area against wind tunnel test results. The aerodynamic characteristics obtained from the LES and the wind tunnel test are compared and analyzed in detail, including wind pressure and force coefficients, wind force spectra, base moments, and correlations of the wind loads. This study aims to assess the performance and potential as well as the strengths and weaknesses of CFD in predicting wind loads on high‐rise buildings in an urban environment and promote its application to the wind‐resistant design of skyscrapers.
Analysis of a Novel Consequent‐Pole Dual‐Stator Linear Permanent Magnet Vernier Machine Employing Mover Slot PM
Authors: Wang Mingjie , Li Pengcheng , Li Yanyan , Jia Wanying , Shen Yongpeng
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a novel consequent‐pole dual‐stator linear permanent magnet vernier machine (DS‐LPMVM) with PM in the mover slot opening, which has a bi‐directional flux modulation effect. The novelty of the proposed machine consists of consequent‐pole double‐sided topology with toroidal windings placed in the mover slot, as well as PMs both on the stator and mover slot to improve the air gap magnetic field. The dual‐stator adopts misalignment structure to suppress detent force and produce steady thrust. The electromagnetic parameters of the proposed DS‐LPMVM are evaluated and quantitatively compared with the conventional linear permanent magnet vernier machine (C‐LPMVM) in terms of air‐gap flux density, no‐load back EMF, inductance, and thrust. The geometrical parameters are designed to reduce the detent force. By analyzing the optimized structure parameters of the two machines, the good electromagnetic performances of the proposed machine are verified by the finite element method (FEM) and semi‐analytical method, and both results of the two methods are basically the same. It is found that the amount of PMs for the proposed machine is reduced by 20% compared to the C‐LPMVM, but the average thrust is increased by 20.7% and the thrust ripple is reduced to 4.04%. The results show that the proposed DS‐LPMVM has better flux modulation effect and thrust characteristics than C‐LPMCM. Finally, a 12‐slot, 10‐pole pairs prototype was manufactured and tested. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Association of circulating Z‐polymer with adverse clinical outcomes and liver fibrosis in adults with alpha‐1 antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Fromme Malin , Rademacher Laura , Amzou Samira , Cook Christi D. , Zacharias Isabel , Zhang Lanju , Ripollone John E. , Strnad Pavel
Published: July 2024

Background

Circulating polymerized mutant Z‐alpha‐1 antitrypsin (Z‐polymer) constitutes a characteristic feature in alpha‐1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), but there is limited knowledge about its association with adverse clinical outcomes and liver fibrosis. We explored this association using data from a large cohort of adults with AATD.

Methods

A total of 836 (431 PiZZ, 405 PiMZ) adults with AATD and 312 controls (PiMM) from the European Alpha‐1 Liver Cohort (2015–2020) were included. Time‐to‐event analyses were conducted for adults with the PiZZ genotype followed for adverse clinical outcomes (earliest occurrence of liver‐related hospitalization, liver transplant or all‐cause mortality). Cox proportional hazard models were used to describe the association between binary circulating Z‐polymer levels and adverse clinical outcomes. Correlations between baseline circulating Z‐polymer levels and baseline liver fibrosis (liver stiffness measurement [LSM] determined by transient elastography [FibroScan®]) were evaluated. The analyses were stratified by augmentation therapy status.

Results

Of 324 adults with the PiZZ genotype and longitudinal follow‐up data, 28 reported adverse clinical outcomes. Higher baseline circulating Z‐polymer levels were associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes in both crude (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval, CI], 2.88 [1.21, 6.87]) and age‐adjusted (1.96 [0.78, 4.94]) analyses. In adults with the PiZZ genotype, circulating Z‐polymer levels were weakly positively correlated with baseline LSM (Spearman's rho [95% CI]: 0.21 [0.11, 0.31]). Similar results were observed after stratification by augmentation therapy status.

Conclusions

In adults with the PiZZ genotype, higher circulating Z‐polymer levels were associated with a shorter time to adverse clinical outcome, and positively correlated with baseline LSM. Circulating Z‐polymer levels may be a prognostic biomarker of clinically relevant disease in AATD.
Significant role of novel additives in improving the antibacterial properties of rubber composite: A comprehensive review
Authors: Kandil Heba
Published: July 2024

Antibacterial products have gained considerable attention from both the academic and industrial communities due to the transmission of several infectious diseases which has raised public awareness of the disinfection pathways of such highly infectious bacteria. Among the materials that have raised public awareness are rubber composite materials as they are present in many different applications, such as medical apparatus, health care products, food packaging, and house furnishings Therefore, the development of rubber‐composite‐based materials with antibacterial activity is crucial to avoid the propagation of pathogens. In this regard, researchers have directed their focus toward the development of innovative additives with antibacterial properties to enhance the antibacterial activities of rubber composites. Several promising additives have emerged, most notably metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, biopolymers, plant‐derived materials, and synthetic organic compounds. The studies have shown that the incorporation of these additives endows the rubber composites with antibacterial properties, making them applicable in a range of biomedical uses. In light of these findings, the present review aims to cover recent works to improve the antibacterial properties of rubber composites using different additives.

Highlights

Rubber composite materials, found in various applications like medical apparatus and food packaging, have raised public awareness of infection prevention.

Development of rubber‐composite‐based materials with antibacterial activity is crucial for preventing pathogen propagation.

Researchers focus on innovative additives, including metal nanoparticles, biopolymers, plant‐derived materials, and synthetic organic compounds, to enhance antibacterial properties.

Incorporating these additives into rubber composites endows them with antibacterial properties, suitable for biomedical applications.
Servers Before Tanks? Defence AI in Denmark
Authors: Graae Andreas Immanuel
Published: July 2024

As one of the most digitized societies in the world, Denmark has a unique opportunity as a small nation to contribute to and benefit from the evolving landscape and global technology competition on defence AI. However, due to persisting strategic cultures and procurement practices the Danish defence is characterized by a platform-centric approach to force development and investments in hardware rather than software. Consequently, Denmark is still at an early stage on the path to adopting defence AI. Recognizing the increasingly central role AI plays in the global technology competition and on current battlefields, it has thus become clear that Danish Defence needs a major technological boost to remain relevant for its allies. However, the question of how exactly the technological boost should be accomplished and implemented into the organization remains uncertain and uncoordinated. The purpose of this chapter is to look beyond the technicalities and provide an overview of the current development and use of military AI in Denmark from a broader sociotechnical point of view that questions the double ambition of the Danish Government to be an AI frontrunner while at the same time restricting these ambitions to matters relating to security politics and ethics of defence AI.
Introduction
Authors: Binney Nicholas , Schermer Maartje
Published: July 2024

The volume before you grew from an interdisciplinary research project “Health and disease as practical concepts”, funded by the Dutch organization for scientific research (NWO), in which we aimed to develop a new, pragmatist approach to the conceptualization of health and disease.
The Biomarkerization of Alzheimer’s Disease: From (Early) Diagnosis to Anticipation?
Authors: Boenink Marianne , van der Molen Lennart
Published: July 2024

The idea that disease can exist without symptoms has recently been boosted by the increasing number of molecular biomarkers. This also spurred controversy about the desirability of early diagnosis. Biomarkers’ role in early diagnosis and definition of disease, as well as the controversies this raises, are particularly noticeable in the domain of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This chapter analyses how the introduction of biomarkers in the AD field has reshaped the conceptualization of ‘AD’. We begin by reconstructing and analysing the subsequent versions of criteria to diagnose AD, issued by the National Institute of Ageing and the Alzheimer’s Association (NIA-AA). This reconstruction is then used to show how biomarker research induces a gradual shift from an ‘ontological’ to a ‘physiological’ mode of approaching disease, which also has several implications beyond the field of AD. Firstly, it helps to see that biomarker testing affects both individuals with and without symptoms. Moreover, it shows that the search for a more specific diagnosis may result in an explosion of heterogeneity rather than diminish it. Finally, it suggests that the value of biomarkers for healthcare practice may lie in their capacity to anticipate on disease trajectory, rather than in a more precise and earlier diagnosis.
Addiction and Its Ambiguities: Some Comments from History
Authors: Blok Gemma
Published: July 2024

In their rich paper, Mary Jean Walker and Wendy Rogers state that addiction is a ‘paradigmatic borderline case’, its disease status having been contested for at least several centuries. Is addiction a sin, an individual weakness, or a brain disease? Is it caused by the substance, by the individual’s vulnerability and psychology, or by social factors? As historians have demonstrated, ideas about addiction have changed significantly over time (Acker 2002; Carstairs 2006; Courtwright 2001). Walker and Rogers’ conceptualization of the vague cluster approach of disease is very helpful in explaining addiction’s contested status. First of all, addiction is a “vague” condition where the difference between health and disease is a matter of degree. Moreover, criteria that we might use to speak of a disease in spite of this vagueness, are not easily applied to addiction.
Epilogue: Towards a Toolbox for a Pragmatist Approach to Conceptualization of Health and Disease
Authors: Schermer Maartje , van der Linden Rik , Bolt Timo , Binney Nicholas
Published: July 2024

In this Epilogue, we bring together the different strands of the volume, and reflect on the lessons learned in the international workshop. We discuss next questions to be asked and steps to be taken for the further development and application of our pragmatic approach. We end by tentatively proposing a ‘toolbox’ intended to give guidance to further inquire on the concept and conceptions of Disease, specific diseases, and health, as they function in numerous practical contexts.
Combining [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TOC PRRT with PARP inhibitors to enhance treatment efficacy in small cell lung cancer
Authors: Rauch Hartmut , Kitzberger Carolin , Janghu Kirti , Hawarihewa Pavithra , Nguyen Nghia T. , Min Yu , Ballke Simone , Steiger Katja , Weber Wolfgang A. , Kossatz Susanne
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive tumor with neuroendocrine origin. Although SCLC frequently express somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2), a significant clinical benefit of SSTR2-targeted radionuclide therapies of SCLC was not observed so far. We hypothesize that combination treatment with a PARP inhibitor (PARPi) could lead to radiosensitization and increase the effectiveness of SSTR2-targeted therapy in SCLC.

Methods

SSTR2-ligand uptake of the SCLC cell lines H69 and H446 was evaluated in vitro using flow cytometry, and in vivo using SPECT imaging and cut-and-count biodistribution. Single-agent (Olaparib, Rucaparib, [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TOC) and combination treatment responses were determined in vitro via cell viability, clonogenic survival and γH2AX DNA damage assays. In vivo, we treated athymic nude mice bearing H69 or H446 xenografts with Olaparib, Rucaparib, or [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TOC alone or with combination treatment regimens to assess the impact on tumor growth and survival of the treated mice.

Results

H446 and H69 cells exhibited low SSTR2 expression, i.e. 60 to 90% lower uptake of SSTR2-ligands compared to AR42J cells. In vitro, combination treatment of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TOC with PARPi resulted in 2.9- to 67-fold increased potency relative to [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TOC alone. We observed decreased clonogenic survival and higher amounts of persistent DNA damage compared to single-agent treatment for both Olaparib and Rucaparib. In vivo, tumor doubling times increased to 1.6-fold (H446) and 2.2-fold (H69) under combination treatment, and 1.0 to 1.1-fold (H446) and 1.1 to 1.7-fold (H69) in monotherapies compared to untreated animals. Concurrently, median survival was higher in the combination treatment groups in both models compared to monotherapy and untreated mice. Fractionating the PRRT dose did not lead to further improvement of therapeutic outcome.

Conclusion

The addition of PARPi can markedly improve the potency of SSTR2-targeted PRRT in SCLC models in SSTR2 low-expressing tumors. Further evaluation in humans seems justified based on the results as novel treatment options for SCLC are urgently needed.

Graphical Abstract
Practical considerations in the management of patients treated with bosutinib for chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lipton Jeffrey H. , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Sweet Kendra , Apperley Jane F. , Cortes Jorge E.
Published: July 2024

Bosutinib is a second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome–positive chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and for patients with Ph + chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blast phase CML resistant or intolerant to prior therapy. As is the case for all TKIs approved for treatment of CML, bosutinib is associated with adverse events (AEs) that require appropriate management to ensure adherence to treatment and optimized outcomes. The aim of this review is to provide physicians with updated practical information for the prevention and management of AEs occurring during treatment with bosutinib, including dosing strategies, based on the latest published evidence and clinical experience. Clinical studies and real-world evidence have shown bosutinib has a generally favorable safety profile, which has remained consistent across lines of therapy and in long-term reports. Adjusting the starting dose and/or modifying the dose during treatment with bosutinib are important strategies to manage AEs and improve tolerability, which are recognized within the label and in treatment guidelines. Dosing adjustment strategies to manage AEs are a recognized management approach for other TKIs in the treatment of CML and are not exclusive to bosutinib. In summary, long-term results from clinical trials and emerging real-world evidence demonstrate bosutinib has a safety profile that can largely be managed with treatment modifications and/or supportive care. Increased experience in managing toxicities and by using a personalized dosing approach may further improve adherence and outcomes with bosutinib.
Advancing wastewater treatment: chitin and derivatives for PPCP contaminant mitigation
Authors: Atheena P. V. , Basawa Renuka , Raval Ritu
Published: July 2024

There is a growing threat of wastewater pollution impacting human access to clean water. The surge in pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in such water has reached alarming levels, posing an unprecedented threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Conventional wastewater treatment is not specifically tailored to address the presence of PPCPs. This paper examines the possibility of using nano-chitin and chitosan as effective and sustainable adsorbents for the removal of PPCPs from wastewater. The recent progress in functionalized nano-chitin or chitosan composites is reviewed with attention to enhanced adsorption capacity and selectivity toward different classes of PPCPs. Unique features of nano-chitin and chitosan, such as their large surface areas and biocompatibility making them a good choice for PPCP adsorption, are also discussed. Critical evaluation is given about how these nanomaterials absorb PPCPs by looking at various mechanisms like electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interaction, among others. Finally, future research directions provided for improving performance and scalability of such bio-based adsorbents are discussed.

Graphical Abstract
Serological responses to vaccination in children exposed in utero to ustekinumab or vedolizumab: cross-sectional analysis of a prospective multicentre cohort
Authors: Mitrova Katarina , Cerna Karin , Zdychyncova Kristyna , Pipek Barbora , Svikova Jana , Minarikova Petra , Adamcova Miroslava , David Jan , Lukas Milan , Duricova Dana
Published: July 2024

Evidence on serological responses to vaccination in children exposed to ustekinumab (UST) or vedolizumab (VDZ) in utero is lacking. This multicentre prospective study aimed to assess the impact of prenatal exposure to UST or VDZ due to maternal inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on serological responses to vaccination and other immunological parameters in exposed children. Children aged ≥ 1 year who were exposed in utero to UST or VDZ and completed at least 1-year of mandatory vaccination were included. We assessed the serological response to vaccination (non-live: tetanus, diphtheria, and Haemophilus influenzae B; live: mumps, rubella, and measles), whole blood count, and immunoglobulin levels. The control group comprised unexposed children born to mothers without IBD. A total of 23 children (median age, 25 months) exposed to UST (n = 13) or VDZ (n = 10) and 10 controls (median age, 37 months) were included. The serological response to vaccination was comparable between the UST and VDZ groups and controls, with an adequate serological response rate of ≥ 80%. Only children exposed to UST showed a slightly reduced serological response to mumps (67% vs. 86% in controls), whereas all children exposed to VDZ showed an adequate response. The majority of the exposed children had normal levels of individual immunoglobulin classes, similar to the controls. No severe pathology was observed in any of the children.

Conclusion: Despite the limited sample size, our findings suggest that in utero exposure to VDZ or UST does not significantly impair the vaccine response or broader immunological parameters in exposed children.

What is known:• Treatment with anti-TNF inhibitors during pregnancy does not appear to affect serologic response to vaccination in exposed children.• Evidence on the efficacy of vaccination in children exposed to ustekinumab or vedolizumab in utero is almost lacking.What is new:• Our findings suggest that in utero exposure to ustekinumab or vedolizumab does not significantly affect the serological responses to common childhood non-live (tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae B, diphtheria) and live vaccines (measles, mumps, rubella).• No major adverse effects on overall immunological health were observed in children exposed in utero to ustekinumab or vedolizumab.
Non-crossing Hamiltonian Paths and Cycles in Output-Polynomial Time
Authors: Eppstein David
Published: July 2024

We show that, for planar point sets, the number of non-crossing Hamiltonian paths is polynomially bounded in the number of non-crossing paths, and the number of non-crossing Hamiltonian cycles (polygonalizations) is polynomially bounded in the number of surrounding cycles. As a consequence, we can list the non-crossing Hamiltonian paths or the polygonalizations, in time polynomial in the output size, by filtering the output of simple backtracking algorithms for non-crossing paths or surrounding cycles respectively. We do not assume that the points are in general position. To prove these results we relate the numbers of non-crossing structures to two easily-computed parameters of the point set: the minimum number of points whose removal results in a collinear set, and the number of points interior to the convex hull. These relations also lead to polynomial-time approximation algorithms for the numbers of structures of all four types, accurate to within a constant factor of the logarithm of these numbers.
Women speaker representation at SAGES annual meetings: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Maskal Sara M. , Chang Jenny H. , Essani Varisha , Moe Ava , Al Marzooqi Raha , Remulla Daphne , Jackson Hope T. , Beffa Lucas R. A. , Lum Sharon S. , Matthew Walsh R. , Prabhu Ajita S.
Published: July 2024

Background

Gender representation trends at the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Annual Meetings and the effect of the 2018 ‘We R SAGES’ initiatives are unknown. We assessed gender trends in oral presentations at the SAGES Annual Meeting between 2012 and 2022 with a focus on assessing the impact of the 2018 initiatives.

Methods

Abstracts selected for oral presentations from 2012 to 2022 were reviewed for presenter and first, second, and senior author gender. Gender was categorized as woman, man, or unknown using public professional profiles. Subsequent publications were identified using search engines. The primary outcome was the temporal trend of proportion of women in each role using interrupted time series analysis. Secondary outcomes included publication rates based on first and senior author genders in 2012–2018 versus 2019–2022.

Results

1605 abstracts were reviewed. The proportion of women increased linearly in all categories: presenter (2.4%/year, R2 = 0.91), first author (2.4%/year, R2 = 0.90), senior author (2%/year, R2 = 0.65), and overall (2.2%, R2 = 0.91), (p < 0.01 for all). Prior to 2018, the proportion of women increased annually for presenters (coefficient: 0.026, 95% CI [0.016, 0.037], p = 0.002) and first authors (coefficient: 0.026, 95% CI [0.016, 0.037], p = 0.002), but there was no significant increase after 2018 (p > 0.05). Female second author proportion increased annually prior to 2018 (coefficient: 0.012, 95% CI [0.003, 0.021], p = 0.042) and increased by 0.139 (95% CI [0.070, 0.208], p = 0.006) in 2018. Annual female senior author proportion did not significantly change after 2018 (p > 0.05). 1198 (75.2%) abstracts led to publications. Women were as likely as men to be first (79% vs 77%, p = 0.284) or senior author (79% vs 77%, p = 0.702) in abstracts culminating in publications. There was no difference in woman first author publication rate before and after 2018 (80% vs 79%, p = 1.000), but woman senior author publication rate increased after 2018 (71% vs 83%, p = 0.032).

Conclusion

There was an upward trend in women surgeons’ presentations and associated publications in the SAGES Annual Meetings over the last decade.
The experience of live-remote exercise—perspectives after cancer treatment
Authors: Kotte Melissa , Ringborg Cecilia H. , Wengström Yvonne
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Live-remote exercise interventions, supervised by exercise professionals in a home-based setting, could potentially enhance exercise accessibility for cancer survivors, yet research on their perspectives is limited. This study explored cancer survivors’ experience of exercise within the context of a live-remote exercise intervention, to understand factors influencing exercise engagement.

Methods

Four online focus groups with, in total, 22 breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors were conducted between March and June 2023. These individuals had participated in a 12-week live-remote exercise intervention. The semi-structured discussions were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis with an abductive approach. The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation model of Behaviour (COM-B) served as a supportive framework.

Results

Nine themes were identified and mapped onto COM-B domains (capability, opportunity, motivation). Factors influencing cancer survivors’ exercise engagement included exercise readiness following cancer treatment, bringing exercise closer, in capable hands, peer support through shared experience, life factors as hurdles or support, exercise as an integral component of cancer treatment, caring for myself and others after me, the positive impact of exercise exceeding expectations, and getting into the habit.

Conclusions

Identifying factors shaping exercise engagement, these findings emphasise live-remote’s potential benefit in overcoming barriers and fostering participation. Supervised by professionals, it offered psychosocial and exercise support, facilitating the integration of exercise into daily life.

Implications for cancer survivors

Elucidating key factors for exercise engagement within a live-remote context is essential for developing and implementing live-remote exercise interventions to ensure accessible, integrated exercise for optimal post-treatment well-being for cancer survivors.
Glioma grade and post-neurosurgical meningitis risk
Authors: Niemelä Sakke , Oksi Jarmo , Jero Jussi , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Rahi Melissa , Rinne Jaakko , Posti Jussi P. , Laukka Dan
Published: July 2024

Background

Post-neurosurgical meningitis (PNM) constitutes a grave complication associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the risk factors predisposing patients to PNM following surgery for low- and high-grade gliomas.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis encompassing all patients who underwent glioma surgery involving craniotomy at Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland, between 2011 and 2018. Inclusion criteria for PNM were defined as follows: (1) Positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture, (2) CSF leukocyte count ≥ 250 × 106/L with granulocyte percentage ≥ 50%, or (3) CSF lactate concentration ≥ 4 mmol/L, detected after glioma surgery. Glioma grades 3–4 were classified as high-grade (n = 261), while grades 1–2 were designated as low-grade (n = 84).

Results

Among the 345 patients included in this study, PNM developed in 7% (n = 25) of cases. The median time interval between glioma surgery and diagnosis of PNM was 12 days. Positive CSF cultures were observed in 7 (28%) PNM cases, with identified pathogens encompassing Staphylococcus epidermidis (3), Staphylococcus aureus (2), Enterobacter cloacae (1), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1). The PNM group exhibited a higher incidence of reoperations (52% vs. 18%, p < 0.001) and revision surgery (40% vs. 6%, p < 0.001) in comparison to patients without PNM. Multivariable analysis revealed that reoperation (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.04–6.67) and revision surgery (OR 7.08, 95% CI 2.55–19.70) were significantly associated with PNM, while glioma grade (high-grade vs. low-grade glioma, OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.30–2.22) showed no significant association.

Conclusions

The PNM rate following glioma surgery was 7%. Patients requiring reoperation and revision surgery were at elevated risk for PNM. Glioma grade did not exhibit a direct link with PNM; however, the presence of low-grade gliomas may indirectly heighten the PNM risk through an increased likelihood of future reoperations. These findings underscore the importance of meticulous post-operative care and infection prevention measures in glioma surgeries.
A retrospective descriptive study of male perpetrators of intimate partner violence referred by judicial authorities: an example from Turkey
Authors: Sehlikoğlu Şeyma , Nalbant Ahmet , Sehlikoğlu Kerem , Almiş Behice Han
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Our study examines the socio-demographic, forensic psychiatric, and childhood trauma exposure (CTE) data of Turkish intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetrators and draws comparisons with the violence data.

Methods

Data of male perpetrators referred to the domestic violence outpatient clinic by judicial authorities between November 2019 and June 2022 were retrospectively examined, with a focus on CTE data.

Results

The mean age of the male perpetrators examined in the study was 37.1 years. Among the overall sample, 16.2% (n = 17) had experienced violence at school in childhood, and 22.9% (n = 24) had experienced CTE. Regarding the frequency of domestic violence in their households, of the perpetrators admitted to the clinic for IPV, 40% (n = 42) reported rarely, 43.8% (n = 46) sometimes, and 16.2% (n = 17) often engaged in violent acts. There is a significant relationship between the frequency of IPV and the level of CTE (χ2: 13.052, SD: 2, p = 0.001, Cramer’s V: 0.353). Similarly, individuals who witnessed domestic violence during childhood were found to commit partner violence more frequently (χ2: 8.157, SD: 2, p = 0.017, Cramer’s V: 0.279).

Conclusions

In this study, we found a strong relationship between CTE and IPV. To the best of our knowledge, our study is only example that investigates the relationship between CTE and IPV in a Turkish sample.
Radiological and intraoperative findings of a rare case of vestibular paroxysmia
Authors: Montano Nicola , Ioannoni Eleonora , Izzo Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Vestibular paroxysmia (VP) is a rare condition. The pathogenesis is linked to a neurovascular conflict (NVC) between an abnormal arterial loop and the VII/VIII cranial nerve complex in the cerebello-pontine angle. Due to its rarity, intraoperative findings are only anecdotally reported. Here we reported on a case of VP, showing the radiological images and the intraoperative surgical video of microvascular decompression (MVD). Further we discussed our findings considering the pertinent literature. We think that in case of VP the concordance between the side of tinnitus/hypoacusia and the side of NVC on magnetic resonance imaging should be always looked for before considering MVD as a therapeutic option.
Clinical and microbiological features of a cohort of patients with Acinetobacter baumannii bloodstream infections
Authors: Wu Chongyang , Yuan Yu , Tang Sishi , Liu Chen , He Chao
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Acinetobacter baumannii is emerging as a pathogen that is a focus of global concern due to the frequent occurrence of the strains those are extensively resistant to antibiotics. This study was aimed to analyze the clinical and microbiological characteristics of a cohort of patients with A. baumannii bloodstream infections (BSIs) in western China.

Methods

A retrospective study of the patients at West China Hospital of Sichuan University with A. baumannii BSIs between Jan, 2018 and May, 2023 was conducted. Antimicrobial susceptibility of A. baumannii isolates was tested by microdilution broth method. Whole-genome sequencing and genetic analysis were also performed for these isolates.

Results

Among the 117 patients included, longer intensive care unit stay, higher mortality, and more frequent invasive procedures and use of more than 3 classes of antibiotics were observed among the carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB)-infected group (n = 76), compared to the carbapenem-susceptible A. baumannii (CSAB)-infected group (n = 41, all P ≤ 0.001). Twenty-four sequence types (STs) were determined for the 117 isolates, and 98.7% (75/76) of CRAB were identified as ST2. Compared to non-ST2 isolates, ST2 isolates exhibited higher antibiotic resistance, and carried more resistance and virulence genes (P < 0.05). In addition, 80 (68.4%) isolates were CRISPR-positive, showed higher antibiotic susceptibility, and harbored less resistance and virulence genes, in comparison to CRISPR-negative ones (P < 0.05). Phylogenetic clustering based on coregenome SNPs indicated a sporadic occurrence of clonal transmission.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate a high frequency of ST2 among A. baumannii causing BSIs, and high antibiotic susceptibility of non-ST2 and CRISPR-positive isolates. It is necessary to strengthen the surveillance of this pathogen.
Effectiveness of cooperative, collaborative, and interdisciplinary learning guided by software development in Spanish universities
Authors: Lorente Sonia , Arnal-Palacián Mónica , Paredes-Velasco Maximiliano
Published: July 2024

The European Higher Education Area (EHEA) proposes to enhance active learning and student protagonism in order to improve academic performance. In this sense, different methodologies are emerging to create scenarios for self-regulation of their learning. In this study the cooperative, collaborative and interdisciplinary learning methodologies were compared in Spanish universities. The main objectives were to evaluate their effects in higher education and to explore the relationship between perceived group cooperation and self-perceived ability to work in a group, differences between educational Spanish contexts, educational methodologies and gender. To this end, a quasi-experimental design was carried out. Data analysis included the descriptive metrics, correlations and analysis of variance to evaluate the differences among pedagogical methods, their effects on cooperative learning, teamwork outcomes and gender differences, comprising a total of 229 students in Spain from Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Primary Education and Computer Engineering completed the two questionnaires. Results showed that the highest correlation between perceived cooperative activity and self-perceived ability to work in a group was found among computer science students, especially among women, suggesting that the interdisciplinary learning focused on software tool development may be the most effective methodology to improve teamwork and cooperative learning outcomes. Despite these findings concern only to Spanish universities, limiting the generalizability of results, the interdisciplinary methodology seems promising for improving both teaching quality and teamwork skills. The learning methodologies of interdisciplinary projects may therefore need to be implemented within the framework of cooperative and collaborative methodologies.
A Learning Theory Proposal that May Strengthen the Effectiveness of Psychological Treatments
Authors: McCullough James P. , Long Lee R.
Published: July 2024

This paper stands in the learning tradition of H. J. Eysenck who, sixty-three years ago in 1961, wrote that pathological/psychological disorders are learned/conditioned responses or habits that are non-adaptive. Eysenck argued that persons who receive Psychological Treatment (i.e. ‘psychotherapy’) are best served when their symptom complaints are addressed with well-established learning guidelines. In a similar vein, our proposal presents a general overview of learning and following Eysenck’s lead, describes six general characteristics (Eysenck listed 6 characteristics of ‘psychotherapy’) of a learning-based proposal for Psychological Treatment. Our proposal places a heavy emphasis on the therapist’s role as teacher. In addition, four acquisition learning examples are presented showing how one constructs a learning approach that addresses psychological symptom categories.