bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology in the undergraduate dental programs in the MENA region
Authors: Islam Md Sofiqul , Al‐Fakhri Ali , Rahman Mohammed Mustahsen
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study was to understand the trends of teaching Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in the undergraduate dental curriculum in the MENA region by conducting an online survey among the undergraduate dental colleges in this region.

Materials and Methods

An online survey was conducted using Google Forms consisting of 20 questions that could be answered by “yes” or “no” responses, multiple‐choice answers or in a descriptive, “open” format. A total of 55 participants from the MENA region representing their dental college were requested to participate in this study.

Results

The response rate of the survey was 85.5% following the twofold follow‐up reminders method. Although the vast majority of professors demonstrated vital knowledge in the practical use of CAD/CAM, the majority of them did not provide theoretical and practical training on CAD/CAM in their institutions. Among the schools with established levels of teaching CAD/CAM, nearly 50% of them provide both pre‐clinical and clinical training on CAD/CAM. Despite the availability of extra‐curricular training courses on CAD/CAM outside the university setting, there is a lack of advocating for students to enrol in those courses by the institutions. More than 80% of the participants agreed that CAD/CAM has a strong future in chair‐side dental clinics and CAD/CAM needs to be incorporated within undergraduate studies.

Conclusion

Based on the results of the current study, it is understandable that an intervention is required by the dental education providers to cope with the growing demand for CAD/CAM technology for the current and future dental practitioners of the MENA region.
Management of epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia: Results of an international expert consensus panel
Authors: Smith Kelsey M. , Wirrell Elaine C. , Andrade Danielle M. , Choi Hyunmi , Trenité Dorothée Kasteleijn‐Nolst , Jones Hannah , Knupp Kelly G. , Mugar Jon , Nordli Douglas R. , Riva Antonella , Stern John M. , Striano Pasquale , Thiele Elizabeth A. , Zawar Ifrah
Published: June 2023

Objective

There are limited data about the treatment and management of epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia (EEM). The objective of this study was to determine areas of consensus among an international panel of experts for the management of EEM (formerly known as Jeavons syndrome).

Methods

An international steering committee was convened of physicians and patients/caregivers with expertise in EEM. This committee summarized the current literature and identified an international panel of experts (comprising 25 physicians and five patients/caregivers). This panel participated in a modified Delphi process, including three rounds of surveys to determine areas of consensus for the treatment, other areas of management, and prognosis for EEM.

Results

There was a strong consensus for valproic acid as the first‐line treatment, with levetiracetam or lamotrigine as preferable alternatives for women of childbearing age. There was a moderate consensus that ethosuximide and clobazam are also efficacious. There was a strong consensus to avoid sodium channel‐blocking medications, except for lamotrigine, as they may worsen seizure control. There was consensus that seizures typically persist into adulthood, with remission occurring in <50% of patients. There was less agreement about other areas of management, including dietary therapy, lens therapy, candidacy for driving, and outcome.

Significance

This international expert panel identified multiple areas of consensus regarding the optimal management of EEM. These areas of consensus may inform clinical practice to improve the management of EEM. In addition, multiple areas with less agreement were identified, which highlight topics for further research.
Integrated Three‐Dimensional Geological and Numerical Groundwater Model Development
Authors: LeFrancois Michael , Farmer Morgan , Carver Marc
Published: June 2023

Conceptual site model (CSM) development is a foundational step for numerical groundwater model construction. Tools for reviewing and combining disparate data to develop a CSM have been furthered through software that efficiently integrates multiple data streams, especially when a large amount of information is available at complex sites. Three‐dimensional (3D) interfaces for data visualization and geological modeling are becoming commonly used to compile data, support development of a robust CSM, and create effective visuals that enable project stakeholders to understand site complexity. This article describes a 3D interface workflow applied to a geological and numerical groundwater modeling case study where numerical modeling (i.e., MODFLOW family of codes) was used to assess remedy effectiveness. Specifically, the numerical model was used to overview an in situ solidification (ISS) application, where soil mixing will be conducted with cement, for possible adverse effects to an existing groundwater treatment system. 3D geological modeling allowed for the existing numerical groundwater flow model to be reconstructed to include previously overlooked data on buried infrastructure, which led to a detailed depiction of high‐permeability channels and a more accurate representation of site conditions. Modeling showed that the ISS remedy would not adversely impact the existing groundwater treatment system. Integration of existing data within a 3D interface led to hydrogeological insights that would have been difficult to obtain from two‐dimensional visualization of information, improved numerical modeling efficiency, and informed site remedy decisions. Additionally, the 3D interface created effective visuals that increased internal and external project team conceptual understanding.
Translation, cross‐cultural adaptation, and validation of a Latin American Spanish version of the ID Migraine screening test
Authors: Rodríguez‐Rivas Roberto , Moreno‐Martínez Carlos Alberto , Cerqueira Tiago Lemos , Enríquez‐Peregrino Kevin Giuseppe , Martínez‐Piña Daniel Arturo , Vargas‐Rodríguez Jossy Norilí , Zermeño Fernando
Published: June 2023

Objective

To translate, culturally adapt, and validate a version of the ID Migraine into Latin American Spanish.

Background

Although still considered a common diagnosis, half of the patients with migraine in Latin America experience diagnostic delay. The ID Migraine is a test developed in 2003 as a valuable tool for the early diagnosis of migraine at the primary care level; however, there is no validated Spanish or culturally adapted version for the Spanish‐speaking population.

Methods

This is an analytical, translation, and test‐validation study. We performed back translation and cross‐cultural adaptation. The Latin American Spanish version ID Migraine MX was applied to headache clinic patients from March 2021 to January 2022 to perform a validation process against the gold standard: blinded expert diagnosis according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD‐3), criteria.

Results

One hundred seventeen patients from the headache clinic of the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Mexico City were screened. We found 62/117 (53%) patients positive for screening with ID Migraine MX, and 47/117 (40%) positive for migraine according to ICHD‐3 criteria. A sensitivity (95% CI) of 0.91 (0.80–0.97), specificity of 0.73 (0.61–0.82), positive predictive value of 0.694 (0.57–0.794), and negative predictive value of 0.93 (0.83–0.97) were obtained. The positive likelihood ratio was 3.38 (2.27–4.99), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.12 (0.04–0.30). After calling the patients 1 month after the first interview, the calculated Kappa test–retest was 0.75 (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

A translated and cross‐culturally adapted version into Spanish of the ID Migraine was obtained, with a diagnostic performance similar to the original instrument. Clinicians may use this test at the first level of care to reduce the rate of misdiagnosis and the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment of migraine.
Enabling CAR T‐cell therapies for HIV‐positive lymphoma patients – A call for action
Authors: Hattenhauer Sandra Tessa , Mispelbaum Rebekka , Hentrich Marcus , Boesecke Christoph , Monin Malte Benedikt
Published: June 2023

People living with HIV have a higher risk of developing lymphoma. Outcomes for people living with HIV with relapsed or refractory (r/r) lymphoma remain poor. For this group of patients, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy represents a new successful treatment strategy. However, people living with HIV were not included in pivotal trials, so data are limited to case reports. We searched the PubMed and Ovid technologies databases for literature until 1 November 2022 using the terms ‘HIV and CAR‐T’, ‘HIV and lymphoma’ and ‘HIV and CAR‐T and lymphoma’. Six cases with sufficient information were included in the review. The mean CD4+ T‐cell count before CAR T‐cell therapy was 221 cells/μL (range 52–629). The viral load was below the limit of detection in four patients. All patients had diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and were treated with gamma‐retroviral‐based axicabtagene ciloleucel. Four patients developed cytokine‐release syndrome (CRS) grade 2 or less or immune effector‐cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANs) grade 3–4. Four of six patients responded to CAR T‐cell therapy (three complete remissions, one partial remission). In summary, there are no clinical reasons to restrict the use of CAR T‐cell therapy in people living with HIV with r/r DLBCL. According to the current data, CAR T‐cell therapy was safe and effective. In people who meet the standard criteria for CAR T‐cell therapy, this treatment approach could significantly improve the unmet need for more effective treatment options for people living with HIV with r/r lymphoma.
Le travail temporaire, un tremplin vers l'emploi permanent? Nouvel éclairage à partir de données sur le Pérou
Authors: JARAMILLO BAANANTE Miguel , CAMPOS UGAZ Daniela
Published: June 2023

Les auteurs cherchent à déterminer dans quelle mesure le travail temporaire fonctionne comme un tremplin vers l'emploi permanent, en distinguant les transitions intra‐entreprises et interentreprises. Pour cela, ils s'appuient sur une base de données employeurs‐salariés recueillies au Pérou sur la période 2012‐2016. Ils proposent plusieurs mesures de ces transitions et estiment des modèles de durée. Ils montrent que seuls 7 pour cent des contrats à durée déterminée sont suivis d'un contrat à durée indéterminée. Ces conversions relèvent d'une mobilité intra‐entreprise dans environ la moitié des cas.
Digital health competencies for the next generation of physicians
Authors: Scott Ian A. , Shaw Tim , Slade Christine , Wan Tai T. , Coorey Craig , Johnson Sandra L. J. , Sullivan Clair M.
Published: June 2023

As health care continues to change and evolve in a digital society, there is an escalating need for physicians who are skilled and enabled to deliver care using digital health technologies, while remaining able to successfully broker the triadic relationship among patients, computers and themselves. The focus needs to remain firmly on how technology can be leveraged and used to support good medical practice and quality health care, particularly around resolution of longstanding challenges in health care delivery, including equitable access in rural and remote areas, closing the gap on health outcomes and experiences for First Nations peoples and better support in aged care and those living with chronic disease and disability. We propose a set of requisite digital health competencies and recommend that the acquisition and evaluation of these competencies become embedded in physician training curricula and continuing professional development programmes.
Reply to: Comment on: Data‐driven classification of health status of older adults with diabetes: The diabetes and aging study
Authors: Huang Elbert S. , Schumm L. Philip , Karter Andrew J.
Published: June 2023

This letter comments on the letter by Christiaens
Profiles of early career insecurity and its outcomes in adolescence: A four‐wave longitudinal study
Authors: Mauno Saija , Klug Katharina , Rantanen Johanna , Muotka Joona , Kiuru Noona
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the developmental profiles of perceived early career insecurity (ECI) and their outcomes among adolescents (n = 1416) during a critical educational transition from basic education to upper secondary education. We found three distinct latent profiles with varying amounts of ECI: Profile 1: Moderate and decreasing ECI before the transition (57%); Profile 2: Low‐decreasing ECI before the transition but increasing ECI after the transition (31%); and Profile 3: High and stable ECI during the transition (12%). Moreover, the ECI profiles related to school and life satisfaction as well as to school stress and dropout intentions in a meaningful way consistent with the stressor hypothesis. Chronically high and increasing ECI was related to negative outcomes.
Strategies elementary school children use to influence mothers' food purchasing decisions
Authors: Monalisa Nazratun N. , Frongillo Edward A. , Blake Christine E. , Steck Susan E. , DiPietro Robin B.
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to understand the strategies elementary‐school‐aged children used to influence mothers' food purchasing decisions. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 children aged 6–11 years and their mothers living in South Carolina. Strategies to influence mothers' food purchases were collected from children and their mothers separately. The interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and open‐coded. The constant comparative method was used for data analysis. Coding matrices were used to compare children's and mothers' responses on the children's strategies. Children reported 157 instances of 25 distinct strategies to influence mothers' purchasing decisions. Mothers had concordance with 83 instances of these strategies. Mothers were more concordant with sons than daughters. The most common and successful strategies reported by children and mothers were repeated polite requests, reasoned requests and referencing friends. Other strategies included offers to contribute money or service, using other family members to pursue mothers for the item, writing a list and grabbing desired items. Mothers perceived that children had a large influence on food purchasing decisions. Children were aware of the strategies that would get positive reactions from mothers. They (children) could get their desired items a lot of times, often, or several times in a month from their mothers irrespective of the healthfulness of the items. Children's influence can be used as a change agent for improving mothers' food purchases if children prefer healthy foods. Efforts are needed for mothers and children to help address children's strategies to influence mothers to purchase unhealthy foods and make healthy foods more appealing to children.
Farewell to humanism? Considerations for nursing philosophy and research in posthuman times
Authors: Petrovskaya Olga
Published: June 2023

In this paper, I argue that critical posthumanism is a crucial tool in nursing philosophy and scholarship. Posthumanism entails a reconsideration of what ‘human’ is and a rejection of the whole tradition founding Western life in the 2500 years of our civilization as narrated in founding texts and embodied in governments, economic formations and everyday life. Through an overview of historical periods, texts and philosophy movements, I problematize humanism, showing how it centres white, heterosexual, able‐bodied Man at the top of a hierarchy of beings, and runs counter to many current aspirations in nursing and other disciplines: decolonization, antiracism, anti‐sexism and Indigenous resurgence. In nursing, the term humanism is often used colloquially to mean kind and humane; yet philosophically, humanism denotes a Western philosophical tradition whose tenets underpin much of nursing scholarship. These underpinnings of Western humanism have increasingly become problematic, especially since the 1960s motivating nurse scholars to engage with antihumanist and, recently, posthumanist theory. However, even current antihumanist nursing arguments manifest deep embeddedness in humanistic methodologies. I show both the problematic underside of humanism and critical posthumanism's usefulness as a tool to fight injustice and examine the materiality of nursing practice. In doing so, I hope to persuade readers not to be afraid of understanding and employing this critical tool in nursing research and scholarship.
A spatial justice perspective on EU rural sustainability as territorial cohesion
Authors: Mahon Marie , Woods Michael , Farrell Maura , Jones Rhys , Goodwin‐Hawkins Bryonny
Published: June 2023

Territorial cohesion is a guiding set of EU principles to achieve sustainable development. However, evidence suggests that within and across rural and peripheral regions in particular, prosperity and social and economic wellbeing continue to lag behind other regions. The aim of this article is to examine how a spatial justice perspective can provide new development insights on rural sustainability. Introducing a spatial justice perspective to a sustainability/territorial cohesion view of rural development, this article explores the scope for alternative framings of rural sustainability based on more place‐based, context‐specific socio‐spatial relations and processes. Drawing on interviews with EU‐based stakeholders mainly representing rural‐based NGOs, it identifies changing values and priorities about rural sustainability linked to notions of spatial justice and fairness. The findings illustrate an evolving local‐level emphasis on rural sustainability as a phenomenon less focused on economic growth and as much on achieving social equity, with associated capacity to frame and agree locally relevant sustainability goals in an inclusive and respectful way.
How Coordinated Capitalism Adapts to the Knowledge Economy: Different Upskilling Strategies in Germany and Switzerland
Authors: Emmenegger Patrick , Bajka Scherwin M. , Ivardi Cecilia
Published: June 2023

The rise of the knowledge economy challenges coordinated models of capitalism by requiring their skill formation systems to produce a workforce with higher skills. This paper examines how coordinated capitalism adapts to upskilling pressures by jointly studying general education and vocational education and training (VET) at both upper‐secondary and tertiary levels. Employing a comparative research design covering German and Swiss upskilling efforts over the past 50 years, we observe important differences. Switzerland, with influential small firms and weak union presence, focuses on keeping VET an attractive option at upper‐secondary level by favoring VET graduates' access to tertiary education. By contrast, Germany, marked by large firm dominance and influential unions, concentrates on expanding general education throughout and adding vocational elements later. Our analysis suggests that firms' reform preferences are conditioned by their size and political constraints to reform.
Sewage sludge treated with bentonite, vermiculite or biochar can improve soil properties and enhance growth of grasses
Authors: Balidakis Athanasios , Matsi Theodora , Karagianni Anastasia‐Garyfallia , Ipsilantis Ioannis
Published: June 2023

Sewage sludge treated with 15% bentonite, vermiculite or biochar was evaluated as a soil amendment in comparison to limed and untreated sludge. Seven treatments were established to two soils, an acid and an alkaline, in three replications, i.e. 2% addition of sludge treated with bentonite, vermiculite, biochar and lime and application of 2% untreated sludge, inorganic fertilization and no sludge or inorganic fertilizers (control). Then, the soil treatments were used in a pot experiment with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) as a test plant. Sludge treated with the clay minerals or biochar improved pH of the acid soil and significantly increased organic matter and available nutrients of both soils compared to control. Although no salinity or sodicity hazard was evidenced, the initial salinity of acid and alkaline soil increased by four‐eight and two‐three times, respectively, upon addition of all sludge treatments, especially that of untreated sludge. Moreover, soil available zinc (Zn) increased by four‐eight times. Soil application of sludge treated with the clay minerals or biochar increased the total aboveground biomass yield of ryegrass in the acid and alkaline soil by 133%–171% and 72%–88%, respectively, compared to control and enhanced nutrient uptake by plants. Furthermore the microbial metabolic quotient indicated lack of low pH and heavy metal stress with addition of sludge to the acid soil. After three harvests of ryegrass, the residual effect of sludge on pH of acid soil and salinity, available phosphorus (P), Zn and boron (B) of both soils still persisted. Thus sewage sludge treated with 15% bentonite, vermiculite or biochar could be applied to soils at a rate of 2% (≈80 Mg ha−1) to serve as soil amendment and fertilizer for grasses and pasture species; however, caution is needed regarding possible P build‐up, Zn phytotoxicity and salinization risks.
Use of CT and MR imaging in radiation therapy planning of imaging‐diagnosed canine intracranial meningioma achieves better tumor coverage than CT alone
Authors: Walther Eric , Warfield Simon , Akbarzadeh Afshin , Davis Karen , Sidhu Narinder , Matthews Quinn , Deveau Michael , Mauldin Neal , Parker Sarah , Mayer Monique
Published: June 2023

The aim of this retrospective, secondary analysis study was to quantify the dosimetric impact of the lack of interobserver agreement on gross tumor volume (GTV) delineation for canine meningioma. This study used a previously reported population of 13 dogs with GTVs contoured on CT alone and on registered CT‐MR by 18 radiation oncologists. The “true” GTV was generated for each dog using a simultaneous truth and performance‐level estimation algorithm, and “true” brain was defined as the whole brain minus true GTV. Treatment plans were generated for each dog and observer combination, using criteria applied to the observer's GTV and brain contours. Plans were then categorized as a pass (met all planning criteria for true GTV and true brain) or fail. A mixed‐effects linear regression was performed to examine differences in metrics between CT and CT‐MR plans and mixed‐effects logistic regression was performed to examine differences in percentages of pass/fail between CT and CT‐MRI plans. The mean percent coverage of true GTV by prescribed dose was higher for CT‐MR plans than for CT plans (mean difference 5.9%; 95% CI, 3.7–8.0; P < 0.001). There was no difference in the mean volume of true brain receiving ≥24 Gy and in maximum true brain dose between CT plans and CT‐MR plans (P ≥ 0.198). CT‐MR plans were significantly more likely to pass the criteria for true GTV and true brain than CT plans (OR 1.75; 95% CI, 1.02–3.01; P = 0.044). This study demonstrated significant dosimetric impact when GTV contouring was performed on CT alone compared with CT‐MR.
“It’s Absolutely Essential”: Sport and Performance Psychology Practitioners’ Perspectives on Training, Use, and Importance of Debriefing in Applied Work
Authors: Maurice Stefanee , Byrd Megan , Crawford Holt , Johnson Kaytlyn , He Joy , Charalambous Carolena
Published: June 2023

Debriefing is commonly used in sport and performance psychology (SPP), but little has been done to expand debriefing education and training experiences. The researchers sought to examine SPP practitioners’ education and training on debriefing and how it is used in their applied work. This study had two phases (Phase I, n = 143; Phase II, n = 13). During Phase I, researchers developed a 16-item questionnaire regarding demographics and debriefing training, use, and importance. Many participants debriefed every session (46%) and rated debriefing as extremely (53.1%) or very important (39.2%). Participants were unsatisfied with their training (55%) and desired more debriefing training from coursework (65%). Three themes were identified in Phase II interviews: training and education, use of debriefing, and importance of debriefing. With limited research in SPP about debriefing, this study furthers knowledge about how debriefing is used in practice and how training experiences can be improved.
A
Plasmodium
membrane receptor platform integrates cues for egress and invasion in blood forms and activation of transmission stages
Authors: Kuehnel Ronja Marie , Ganga Emma , Balestra Aurélia C. , Suarez Catherine , Wyss Matthias , Klages Natacha , Brusini Lorenzo , Maco Bohumil , Brancucci Nicolas , Voss Till S. , Soldati Dominique , Brochet Mathieu
Published: June 2023

Critical events in the life cycle of malaria-causing parasites depend on cyclic guanosine monophosphate homeostasis by guanylyl cyclases (GCs) and phosphodiesterases, including merozoite egress or invasion of erythrocytes and gametocyte activation. These processes rely on a single GCα, but in the absence of known signaling receptors, how this pathway integrates distinct triggers is unknown. We show that temperature-dependent epistatic interactions between phosphodiesterases counterbalance GCα basal activity preventing gametocyte activation before mosquito blood feed. GCα interacts with two multipass membrane cofactors in schizonts and gametocytes: UGO (unique GC organizer) and SLF (signaling linking factor). While SLF regulates GCα basal activity, UGO is essential for GCα up-regulation in response to natural signals inducing merozoite egress and gametocyte activation. This work identifies a GC membrane receptor platform that senses signals triggering processes specific to an intracellular parasitic lifestyle, including host cell egress and invasion to ensure intraerythrocytic amplification and transmission to mosquitoes.
Topologically protected optical polarization singularities in four-dimensional space
Authors: Spaegele Christina M. , Tamagnone Michele , Lim Soon Wei Daniel , Ossiander Marcus , Meretska Maryna L. , Capasso Federico
Published: June 2023

Optical singularities play a major role in modern optics and are frequently deployed in structured light, super-resolution microscopy, and holography. While phase singularities are uniquely defined as locations of undefined phase, polarization singularities studied thus far are either partial, i.e., bright points of well-defined polarization, or are unstable for small field perturbations. We demonstrate a complete, topologically protected polarization singularity; it is located in the four-dimensional space spanned by the three spatial dimensions and the wavelength and is created in the focus of a cascaded metasurface-lens system. The field Jacobian plays a key role in the design of such higher-dimensional singularities, which can be extended to multidimensional wave phenomena, and pave the way for unconventional applications in topological photonics and precision sensing.
Nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy with a femtotesla diamond magnetometer
Authors: Silani Yaser , Smits Janis , Fescenko Ilja , Malone Michael W. , McDowell Andrew F. , Jarmola Andrey , Kehayias Pauli , Richards Bryan A. , Mosavian Nazanin , Ristoff Nathaniel , Acosta Victor M.
Published: June 2023

Radio frequency (RF) magnetometers based on nitrogen vacancy centers in diamond are predicted to offer femtotesla sensitivity, but previous experiments were limited to the picotesla level. We demonstrate a femtotesla RF magnetometer using a diamond membrane inserted between ferrite flux concentrators. The device provides ~300-fold amplitude enhancement for RF magnetic fields from 70 kHz to 3.6 MHz, and the sensitivity reaches ~70 fT√s at 0.35 MHz. The sensor detected the 3.6-MHz nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) of room-temperature sodium nitrite powder. The sensor’s recovery time after an RF pulse is ~35 μs, limited by the excitation coil’s ring-down time. The sodium-nitrite NQR frequency shifts with temperature as −1.00±0.02 kHz/K, the magnetization dephasing time is
T
2
*=887±51 μs, and multipulse sequences extend the signal lifetime to 332±23 ms, all consistent with coil-based studies. Our results expand the sensitivity frontier of diamond magnetometers to the femtotesla range, with potential applications in security, medical imaging, and materials science.
Reversing the mitochondrial hex that bewitches NLRP3
Authors: Mellacheruvu Manasa , Lawrence Grace M. E. P. , Emming Stefan , Schroder Kate
Published: June 2023

Hexokinase dissociation from mitochondria triggers calcium-induced oligomerization of VDAC within the outer mitochondrial membrane, leading to NLRP3 recruitment and inflammasome signaling (see related Research Article by Baik
et al.
).
COVID-19 and unintended steps towards further equity in global health research
Authors: Willows Tamara Mulenga , Oliwa Jacquie , Onyango Onesmus , Mkumbo Elibariki , Maiba John , Schell Carl Otto , Baker Tim , McKnight Jacob
Published: June 2023

There was, and possibly still is, potential for COVID-19 to disrupt power inequities and contribute to positive transformation in global health research that increases equity. While there is consensus about the need to decolonise by transforming global health, and a roadmap outlining how we could approach it, there are few examples of steps that could be taken to transform the mechanics of global health research. This paper contributes lessons learnt from experiences and reflections of our diverse multinational team of researchers involved in a multicountry research project. We demonstrate the positive impact on our research project of making further steps towards improving equity within our research practices. Some of the approaches adopted include redistributing power to researchers from the countries of interest at various stages in their career, by involving the whole team in decisions about the research; meaningfully involving the whole team in research data analysis; and providing opportunities for all researchers from the countries of interest to voice their perspectives as first authors in publications. Although this approach is consistent with how research guidance suggests research should be run, in reality it does not often happen in this way. The authors of this paper hope that by sharing our experience, we can contribute towards discussions about the processes required to continue developing a global health sector that is equitable and inclusive.
Cost-effectiveness of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke with large infarct in China
Authors: Pan Yuesong , Huo Xiaochuan , Jin Aoming , Nguyen Thanh N , Ma Gaoting , Tong Xu , Zhang Xuelei , Gao Feng , Ma Ning , Mo Dapeng , Ren Zeguang , Wang Yongjun , Miao Zhongrong
Published: June 2023

Background

Endovascular therapy administered within 24 hours has been shown to improve outcomes for patients with acute ischemic stroke with large infarction, but the data on its cost-effectiveness are limited.

Objective

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke with large infarction in China, the largest low- and middle-income country.

Methods

A short-term decision tree model and a long-term Markov model were used to analyze the cost-effectiveness of endovascular therapy for patients with acute ischemic stroke with large infarction. Outcomes, transition probability, and cost data were obtained from a recent clinical trial and published literature. The benefit of endovascular therapy was assessed by the cost per quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained in the short and long term. Deterministic one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the results.

Results

Compared with medical management alone, endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke with large infarction was found to be cost-effective from the fourth year onward and during a lifetime. In the long term, endovascular therapy yielded a lifetime gain of 1.33 QALYs at an additional cost of ¥73 900 (US$ 11 400), resulting in an incremental cost of ¥55 500 (US$ 8530) per QALY gained. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that endovascular therapy was cost-effective in 99.5% of the simulation runs at a willingness-to-pay threshold of ¥243 000 (3 × gross domestic product per capita of China in 2021) per QALY gained.

Conclusions

Endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke with large infarction could be cost-effective in China.
Roadmap for embedding health equity research into learning health systems
Authors: Schoenthaler Antoinette , Francois Fritz , Cho Ilseung , Ogedegbe Gbenga
Published: June 2023

Background

Achieving health equity is vital to fulfil the quadruple aim for optimal healthcare system performance. Traditionally, academic medicine and healthcare systems have focused their efforts on addressing health inequities with an emphasis on improving workforce diversity. Although this approach isan important requisite, a diverse workforce alone is not sufficient; rather holistic health equity should be established as the anchoring principal mission of all academic medical centres, residing at the intersection of clinical care, education, research and community.

Methods

NYU Langone Health (NYULH) has embarked on significant institutional changes to position itself as an equity-focused learning health system. One-way NYULH accomplishes this is through the establishment of ahealth equity research roadmap, which serves as the organising framework through which we conduct embedded pragmatic research in our healthcare delivery system to target and eliminate health inequities across our tripartite mission of patient care, medical education and research.

Results

This article outlines each of the six elements of the NYULHroadmap. These elements include: (1) developing processes for collecting accurate disaggregate data on race, ethnicity and language, sexual orientation and gender identity and disability; (2) using a data-driven approach to identify health equity gaps; (3) creating performance and metric-based quality improvement goals to measure progress toward elimination of health equity gaps; (4) investigating the root cause of the identified health equity gap; (5) developing and evaluating evidence-based solutions to address and resolve the inequities; and (6) continuous monitoring and feedback for system improvements.

Conclusion

Application of each element of theroadmapcan provide a model for how academic medical centres can use pragmatic research to embed a culture of health equity into their health system.
Progressive gait disturbance with head drop
Authors: Mackenzie Graeme , Leach John-Paul , Farrugia Maria Elena , Gilbertson Tom , Davenport Richard J
Published: June 2023

A 61-year-old man developed progressive head drop, gait disturbance, shortness of breath, night sweats and weight loss. Investigations led to a treatable diagnosis. This report documents the clinicopathological conference at the 43rd Edinburgh Clinical Neurology course 2022.
Magnetism caused by 3d-metals
Authors: Jafarova Aynur N.
Published: June 2023

Magnetic properties of Ag2S doped with 3d-transition metals were studied using density functional theory (DFT). It was found that magnetic elements such as Co, Cr and Mn cause magnetism in the structure. The nature of this magnetism is mainly from the 3d-states of the magnetic elements. The magnetic moment of supercells containing various concentrations (x= 2.08%, 4.1%, 8.3%) of dopant atoms has been studied. It was determined that the contribution of the magnetic elements is significant in the total magnetic moment of supercells. Calculation results reveal that when doped with impurity atoms, supercells show half metallicity and ferromagnetic (FM) nature which makes them the best candidate to be used in the field of spintronics.
Extreme Multistability and Extreme Events in a Novel Chaotic Circuit with Hidden Attractors
Authors: Ahmadi Atefeh , Parthasarathy Sriram , Pal Nikhil , Rajagopal Karthikeyan , Jafari Sajad , Tlelo-Cuautle Esteban
Published: June 2023

Extreme multistable systems can show vibrant dynamical properties and infinitely many coexisting attractors generated by changing the initial conditions while the system and its parameters remain unchanged. On the other hand, the frequency of extreme events in society is increasing which could have a catastrophic influence on human life worldwide. Thus, complex systems that can model such behaviors are very significant in order to avoid or control various extreme events. Also, hidden attractors are a crucial issue in nonlinear dynamics since they cannot be located and recognized with conventional methods. Hence, finding such systems is a vital task. This paper proposes a novel five-dimensional autonomous chaotic system with a line of equilibria, which generates hidden attractors. Furthermore, this system can exhibit extreme multistability and extreme events simultaneously. The fascinating features of this system are examined by dynamical analysis tools such as Poincaré sections, connecting curves, bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponents spectra, and attraction basins. Moreover, the reliability of the introduced system is confirmed through analog electrical circuit design so that this chaotic circuit can be employed in many engineering fields.
Tri-State Memristors Based on Composable Discrete Devices
Authors: Li Xiao-Jing , Wang Xiao-Yuan , Li Pu , Iu Herbert H. C. , Eshraghian Jason K. , Nandi Sanjoy Kumar , Nath Shimul Kanti , Elliman Robert G.
Published: June 2023

We develop a tri-state memristive system based on composable binarized memristors, from both a dynamical systems construction to the development of in-house fabricated devices. Firstly, based on the SPICE model of the binary memristor, the series and parallel circuits of binary memristors are designed, and the characteristics of each circuit are analyzed in detail. Secondly, through the analysis of the connection direction and parameters of the two binary memristors, an effective method to construct a tri-state memristor is proposed, and verified using SPICE simulations. Finally, the characteristics of the constructed equivalent tri-state memristor are analyzed, and it is concluded that the amplitude, frequency and type of the input signal can affect the characteristics of the equivalent tri-state memristor. Predictions from this modeling were validated experimentally using Au/[Formula: see text]/Nb cross-point devices.
Heterogeneous Coexisting Attractors and Large-Scale Amplitude Control in a Simple Memristive Neural Network
Authors: Lai Qiang , Yang Liang
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a simple ring memristive neural network (MNN) with self-connection, bidirectional connection and a single memristive synapse. Compared with some existing MNNs, the most distinctive feature of the proposed MNN is that it can generate heterogeneous coexisting attractors and large-scale amplitude control. Various kinds of heterogeneous coexisting attractors are numerically found in the MNN, including chaos with a stable point, chaos with a limit cycle, a limit cycle with a stable point. By increasing the parameter values, the chaotic variables of the MNN can be accordingly increased and their corresponding areas are extremely wide, yielding parameter-dependent large-scale amplitude control. A circuit implementation platform is established and the obtained results demonstrate its validity and reliability.
Global Dynamics of an Oligopoly Game Model with Nonlinear Costs and Strategic Delegation
Authors: Zhou Wei , Liu Yuxia , Xue Rui
Published: June 2023

A dynamic oligopoly game model with nonlinear cost and strategic delegation is built on the basis of isoelastic demand in this paper. And the dynamic characteristics of this game model are investigated. The local stability of the boundary equilibrium points is analyzed by means of the stability theory and Jacobian matrix, and the stability region of the Nash equilibrium point is obtained by Jury criterion. It is concluded that the system may lose stability through Flip bifurcation and Neimark–Sacker bifurcation. And the effects of speed of adjustment, price elasticity, profit weight coefficient and marginal cost on the system stability are discussed through numerical simulation. After that, the coexistence of attractors is analyzed through the basin of attraction, where multiple stability always means path dependence, implying that the long-term behavior of enterprises is strongly affected by historical contingency. In other words, a small perturbation of the initial conditions will have a significant impact on the system. In addition, the global dynamical behavior of the system is analyzed by using the critical curves, the basin of attraction, absorbing areas and a noninvertible map, revealing that three global bifurcations, the first two of which are caused by the interconversion of simply-connected and multiply-connected regions in the basin of attraction, and the third global bifurcation, that is, the final bifurcation is caused by the contact between attractors and the boundary of the basin of attraction.
Gold metallogeny in Iran; implications for gold exploration and conceptual modelling
Authors: Darabi-Golestan Farshad
Published: June 2023

Significant progress in the classification, definition and understanding of the main Au deposit types could significantly aid improvements in Au exploration. Because of the wide occurrence of Au in the central part of the Tethyan Eurasian Metallogenic Belt, Iranian structures composed of more than 17 zones (arcs and blocks) are considered as having one of the largest Au reserves in the Middle East. Without attempts at understanding the tectono-magmatic evolution of Iran and the geodynamic settings of Au deposition, the establishment of a reliable predictive exploration model for Au-type deposits in Iran and other parts of the world will be unsuccessful. By considering a total of 33 Au deposits and prospects in Iran, a mineralization sequence is revealed from orogenic and volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS), orogenic, Carlin-type, epithermal/porphyry Cu–Au/skarn, epithermal/iron oxide–copper–gold (IOCG). The trend of deposition gradually changes in the SW–NE axis to intrusion-related, epithermal and porphyry Cu–Au deposits at the Urumieh–Dokhtar Magmatic Arc (UDMA) and post-arc magmatism. VMS deposits occur adjacent to the NE Zagros Fold and Thrust Belt, at the Sanandaj–Sirjan Zone. The Zagros Orogeny and associated post-collisional magmatism at UDMA host many porphyry, epithermal and intrusion-related Au deposits, with a major magmatism peak in the Miocene. This work reveals that orogenic and Carlin-type Au mineralization are linked genetically. After each associated subduction for Palaeotethys (286–215 Ma) and Neotethys (210–68 Ma) in Iran, VMS and orogenic Au-deposits are formed in the border of the subduction (±obduction) zone. The porphyry, intrusion-related, epithermal and IOCG mineralization are emplaced in appropriate formations and structures during collision and post-collision processes.
Analysis of magma rheology from lava spreading and explosive activity during the 2020–21 eruption of La Soufrière, St Vincent, with implications for eruption dynamics
Authors: Stinton Adam , Sparks R. Stephen J. , Huppert Herbert E.
Published: June 2023

We apply dynamical models to estimate the rheological properties of magma and lava during the 2021–22 eruption of La Soufrière Volcano, St Vincent. Analysis of the emplacement of a lava coulée gives viscosities in the range 0.94 × 10
10
Pa s to 5.97 × 10
10
Pa s. A static Bingham model gives a yield strength of 4.1 × 10
5
Pa. A dynamical model of conduit flow during the explosive phase of the eruption gives a viscosity range from 1.2 × 10
7
to 2.3 × 10
9
Pa s. A petrological model of magma viscosity in the source region falls in the range 10
2
to 10
3
Pa s. The very high viscosity of the lava is attributed to the presence of a remnant degassed and partially crystallized magma from previous eruptions that occupied the shallow conduit–vent system prior to onset of the 2021 explosive eruptions. Gas-rich magma pushed this degassed remnant magma out over a three-month period at a steady rate of about 1.2 m
3
s
−1
and the explosive phase began when volatile-rich and much lower viscosity magma reached the surface.
On the Relationship between HCI Researchers and Creators---Or How I Became a Toolsmith
Authors: Kato Jun
Published: June 2023

Research on creativity support tools in human-computer interaction often focuses on novel interaction design, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. Let's dive deeper and help creative activities "in the wild."
Remaking Everyday Objects for Physical Computing
Authors: Zheng Clement
Published: June 2023

We are surrounded by objects that have been designed and made for a wide range of purposes. Alongside the development of specialized electronic devices, we can look to these objects as a functional resource for tangible computing. By deconstructing such everyday objects and uncovering their structures, they become a material that can be remade into new physical interactive systems.
Cytokine storm in individuals with severe COVID-19 decreases endothelial cell antioxidant defense via downregulation of the Nrf2 transcriptional factor
Authors: Rodrigues Daniel , Machado Mirele R. , Alves Juliano V. , Fraga-Silva Thais F. C. , Martins Ronaldo B. , Campos Ligia C. B. , Francisco Daniely F. , Couto Ariel E. S. , Bonato Vânia L. D. , Arruda Eurico , Becari Christiane , Auxiliadora-Martins Maria , Louzada-Júnior Paulo , Costa Rafael M. , Tostes Rita C.
Published: June 2023

We demonstrate that endothelial cell dysfunction in SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals is linked to decreased activity of the major antioxidant system regulator, the Nrf2 transcription factor. We provide evidence that this phenomenon relies on IL-6, an important cytokine involved in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Our data support the view that Nrf2 activation is a potential therapeutical strategy to prevent oxidative stress and vascular inflammation in severe cases of COVID-19.
Chronic mitochondria antioxidant treatment in older adults alters the circulating milieu to improve endothelial cell function and mitochondrial oxidative stress
Authors: Murray Kevin O. , Ludwig Katelyn R. , Darvish Sanna , Coppock McKinley E. , Seals Douglas R. , Rossman Matthew J.
Published: June 2023

Chronic supplementation with a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant (MitoQ) improves vascular endothelial function in older adults, but the mechanisms of action are incompletely understood. Here, we show that MitoQ supplementation leads to changes in the circulating milieu (plasma), including reductions in oxidized low-density lipoprotein that enhance nitric oxide production and reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress in endothelial cells. These findings provide new information regarding the mechanisms by which MitoQ improves age-related endothelial dysfunction.