bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Let him die in peace’: understanding caregiver’s refusal of medical oxygen treatment for children in Nigeria
Authors: Bakare Ayobami Adebayo , Salako Julius , King Carina , Olojede Omotayo E , Bakare Damola , Olasupo Olabisi , Burgess Rochelle , McCollum Eric D , Colbourn Tim , Falade Adegoke G , Molsted-Alvesson Helle , Graham Hamish R
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Efforts to improve oxygen access have focused mainly on the supply side, but it is important to understand demand barriers, such as oxygen refusal among caregivers. We therefore aimed to understand caregiver, community and healthcare provider (HCP) perspectives and experiences of medical oxygen treatments and how these shape oxygen acceptance among caregivers of sick children in Lagos and Jigawa states, which are two contrasting settings in Nigeria.

Methods

Between April 2022 and January 2023, we conducted an exploratory qualitative study using reflexive thematic analysis, involving semistructured interviews with caregivers (Jigawa=18 and Lagos=7), HCPs (Jigawa=7 and Lagos=6) and community group discussions (Jigawa=4 and Lagos=5). We used an inductive-deductive approach to identify codes and themes through an iterative process using the theoretical framework of acceptability and the normalisation process theory as the analytic lens.

Results

Medical oxygen prescription was associated with tension, characterised by fear of death, hopelessness about a child’s survival and financial distress. These were driven by community narratives around oxygen, past negative experiences and contextual differences between both settings. Caregiver acceptance of medical oxygen was a sense-making process from apprehension and scepticism about their child’s survival chances to positioning prescribed oxygen as an ‘appropriate’ or ‘needed’ intervention. Achieving this transition occurred through various means, such as trust in HCPs, a perceived sense of urgency for care, previous positive experience of oxygen use and a symbolic perception of oxygen as a technology. Misconceptions and pervasive negative narratives were acknowledged in Jigawa, while in Lagos, the cost was a major reason for oxygen refusal.

Conclusion

Non-acceptance of medical oxygen treatment for sick children is modifiable in the Nigerian context, with the root causes of refusal being contextually specific. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all policy is unlikely to work. Financial constraints and community attitudes should be addressed in addition to improving client–provider interactions.
“I pity the TB patient”: a mixed methods study assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB services in two major Indonesian cities and distilling lessons for the future
Authors: Mashuri Yusuf Ari , Boettiger David , Wahyuningtias Siska Dian , Negara Srila Nirmithya Salita , Subronto Yanri Wijayanti , Liverani Marco , Wulandari Luh Putu Lila , Ahmad Riris Andono , Thabrany Hasbullah , Fardousi Nasser , Kaldor John , Probandari Ari , Wiseman Virginia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

In Indonesia, a country with around 280 million people and the second-highest tuberculosis (TB) incidence rate in the world, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB care needs careful assessment so that future response strategies can be strengthened. We conducted a study comparing TB testing and treatment rates before and during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, and the reasons for any disruptions to care.

Methods

We conducted retrospective secondary data analysis and qualitative interviews in Yogyakarta and Bandung, Indonesia. Routine data on TB testing and treatment were sourced from the national TB information system operated by the Indonesian Ministry of Health. TB testing and treatment outcomes were compared between two time periods: pre-COVID (2018–19); and during COVID-19 (2020–21). In-depth interviews were conducted with patients and health workers to explore their experiences in accessing and providing TB services during the pandemic.

Results

There was a 45% (21 937/39 962) reduction in the number of patients tested for TB during the pandemic compared with pre-COVID-19, while the proportion of TB tests returning a positive result increased from 12% (4733/39 962) to 50% (10 945/21 937). The proportion of TB patients completing treatment increased by 2.6% during the pandemic, yet the proportion cured and the number of patients successfully treated both decreased (by 7% and 4.4%, respectively). Our qualitative interviews highlighted several factors influencing TB service access and delivery, including fear of being diagnosed with COVID-19 during TB-related clinic visits, fear of COVID-19 exposure among patients and health workers, healthcare facilities prioritising COVID-19 over other services, and mandatory mobility restrictions affecting both patients and health workers.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted TB testing and treatment outcomes in Bandung and Yogyakarta. Policymakers should consider these findings in designing strategies to ensure TB services are maintained and supported during future health crises.
109: RISK MANAGEMENT AND PATIENT SAFETY IN OPERATING ROOM: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Kabiri Neda , Jannati Ali , Vahed Nafiseh , Oskouei Mina Mahami
Published: May 2024

Background and aims:

The concept of risk management is a new issue which pointed out the dangers of the health system on patients. Statistics indicate that a non-negligible percentage of patients, faced with health system, especially hospitals, and injuries are complications arising from the provision of services. Since the entire process of provision of health services is combined with a degree of safety and risk, therefore, safety is one of the most fundamental principles of service delivery in health centers. This study was a systematic review of risk management and patient safety in operating room.

Methods:

We systematically reviewed the literature from PubMed (Medline), The Cochrane Library, Ovid, Scopus, Embase, Proquest and Google Scholar published between 2000 and 2016. The search strategy Included a combination of key words “Risk Management”, “Patient Safety”, “Operating Rooms” in all fields. Also the publication types of review and articles were included and meetings abstracts, editorials, brief commentaries, letters, errata and papers that Subtopics were also excluded.

Results:

The initial search identified 340 abstracts. Application of the inclusion/exclusion criteria resulted in 24 articles for review. The majority of studies mentioned well communication between patient and operating team, Steps to prevent wrong-site, wrong-person and wrong-procedure errors, checklist using and Teamwork as effective interventions.

Conclusion:

Results from this project gives healthcare managers, policy makers, and operating room staff useful information to increase surgical rooms efficiency and patient safety.
79: IMPACT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ON EFFICIENCY OF EVIDENCE-BASED MEDICINE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Ebrahimi Zahra , Piri Zakieh , mehdikhani Afsaneh , Khara RouhAllah
Published: May 2024

Background and aims:

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is a systematic process of searching, evaluating and using the best evidence available for clinical decision that this evidence obtained from clinical research consciously. Information technology refers to any technology using for receiving, storing, processing, transmission and presentation of information. This technology in EBM led to the release, evaluation and critique of the medical research evidence. The aim of this study was to exploring the impact and benefits of information technology in evidence-based medicine.

Methods:

The search was conducted in main databases include WOS, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest using keywords such as “health information technology”,” social network”, “decision support system”, ”effects”, ”benefits”, “information technology”, “internet”, “evidence based medicine” and “practice based medicine” until the end of 2016. The results were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Finally, 40 Paper was included in this study. The results showed increasing usage of information technology in EBM. Information technology improves patient safety, quality of care and reduces Medication errors, through clinical supervision and increase adherence to the preventive care guidelines. Internet, social networks, decision support systems, Artificial intelligence and neural network are some of the technologies that used in EBM.

Conclusion:

Using information technology facilitates the evidence-based medicine processes are extremely effective. So that Internet has easy access via links to information and specialized evidence-based clinical guidelines, that can be used for improved decision-making and facilitate communication and dissemination of information. Any technology that can to facilitate collection, storage, process and retrieve information for health staff it can also have a positive impact in improving EBM. In general, EBM is a dream without the use of technologies and policymakers should seriously plan to use more IT.
A rapid review to identify physical activity accrued while playing golf
Authors: Luscombe Jack , Murray Andrew D , Jenkins Evan , Archibald Daryll
Published: May 2024

Objective

To identify physical activity (PA) accrued while playing golf and modifiers of PA accrued.

Design

A rapid review of primary research studies. Quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute quality assessment tool for cohort and cross-sectional studies.

Methods and outcomes

The following databases were searched from 1900 to March 2017: SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Google Advanced Search, ProQuest, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. All primary research investigating golf or golfers with any of the following outcomes was included: metabolic equivalent of task, oxygen uptake, energy expenditure, heart rate, step count, distance covered, strength, flexibility, balance, sedentary behaviour.

Results

Phase one searching identified 4944 citations and phase two searching identified 170 citations. In total, 19 articles met inclusion criteria. Golf is primarily a moderate intensity PA, but may be low intensity depending on the playing population and various modifiers. Less PA is accrued by those who ride a golf cart compared with those walking the course.

Conclusions

Golf can be encouraged in order to attain PA recommendations. Further research is required into the relationship between golf and strength and flexibility PA recommendations and how modifiers affect PA accrued.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017058237.
46 An integrated pathway to access medicines for the palliative care patient in crisis in the out-of-hours period
Authors: Donovan Gemma , Foster Stephen , Herscovitz Marc , Griffiths Andrew , Slark Denise
Published: May 2024

Introduction

It is recognised that community rapid response services can face difficulties in sourcing medicines to support end-of-life care (Butler and Holdsworth, 2013). Medicines used in the out-of-hours (OOH) period cannot usually be dispensed directly to the patient due to community pharmacies being closed. This can prevent the setup of syringe drivers and/or administration of prescribed stat doses. Here, an on-call pharmacy service was commissioned but not well integrated into pathways of care.

Aim

To optimise the treatment of palliative care patients in crisis, using an integrated pathway.

Method

A Rapid Process Improvement Workshop (RPIW) was used to map the process of managing a patient in crisis, and plan a more efficient pathway to access medicines across nursing, medical and pharmacy services.

Results

An integrated pathway was developed to facilitate best use of healthcare professional time to deliver palliative care (see below). An on-call pharmacy service is key to its delivery. In 2015/16, palliative care nurses were coordinating medicines supply for 95% pharmacy call-outs (n=38), since implementation of the new pathway in 2016/17 this has reduced to 42% (n=31). At baseline, it was estimated that sourcing medicines by nurses took four to five hours, the new service takes an average 49 min from call-out to patient delivery of required medicines.

Conclusion

Commissioning an on-call pharmacy service using an integrated pathway for patients in crisis enables efficient supply of medicines during the OOH period, optimising use of nursing, pharmacist and medical time to facilitate timely access to medicines for symptom management.

Reference

. Butler, C. and Holdsworth, L. (2013) ‘Setting up a new evidence-based hospice-at-home service in England’, International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 19(7), pp. 355–359
Operational patient care pathway: building pragmatic medical interoperability through health engagements
Authors: Falconer Hall Thomas , Wilson R , Chacksfield C , Horne S T
Published: May 2024

The future operational demand for medical support in Western militaries will likely outstrip available resources, necessitating burden-sharing through medical interoperability with allies and partners. However, the current North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) model of interoperability through standardisation, while achieving high levels of commonality and integration along the operational patient care pathway (OPCP), is high-cost and resource-intensive. We have termed this model assured interoperability. Assured interoperability, while applicable to well-established partnerships with high-resource nations, is unlikely to be feasible when working with resource-limited partners or, potentially, when in a sustained conflict with a near-peer adversary. In these circumstances, there will be a requirement to develop a far less resource-intensive model of medical interoperability with lower levels of commonality, assurance and standardisation than assured interoperability, but that provides a ‘good enough’ OPCP for the operational context. We have termed this pragmatic interoperability. By considering these two types of interoperability, the complete continuum of medical interoperability can be mapped with the full spectrum of partners demonstrating increasing levels of interoperability from pragmatic through to assured interoperability, integrateability and interchangeability, reducing the gap between demand and provision of medical support for operations, increasing operational resilience. This is a paper commissioned as a part of the Defence Engagement special issue ofBMJ Military Health.
Wavelet Transform, Reconstructed Phase Space, and Deep Learning Neural Networks for EEG-Based Schizophrenia Detection
Authors: Al Fahoum Amjed , Zyout Ala’a
Published: May 2024

This study proposes an innovative expert system that uses exclusively EEG signals to diagnose schizophrenia in its early stages. For diagnosing psychiatric/neurological disorders, electroencephalogram (EEG) testing is considered a financially viable, safe, and reliable alternative. Using the reconstructed phase space (RPS) and the continuous wavelet transform, the researchers maximized the differences between the EEG nonstationary signals of normal and schizophrenia individuals, which cannot be observed in the time, frequency, or time-frequency domains. This reveals significant information, highlighting more distinguishable features. Then, a deep learning network was trained to enhance the accuracy of the resulting image classification. The algorithm’s efficacy was confirmed through three distinct methods: employing 70% of the dataset for training, 15% for validation, and the remaining 15% for testing. This was followed by a 5-fold cross-validation technique and a leave-one-out classification approach. Each method was iterated 100 times to ascertain the algorithm’s robustness. The performance metrics derived from these tests — accuracy, precision, sensitivity, F1 score, Matthews correlation coefficient, and Kappa — indicated remarkable outcomes. The algorithm demonstrated steady performance across all evaluation strategies, underscoring its relevance and reliability. The outcomes validate the system’s accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and robustness by showcasing its capability to autonomously differentiate individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia from those in a state of normal health.
Expansion of the universe on fractal time: A study on the dynamics of cosmic growth
Authors: Golmankhaneh Alireza Khalili , Wanliss James
Published: May 2024

In this paper, fractal space–time, the Hubble horizon and the energy–momentum tensor are examined in relation to the FLRW metric. It offers a Fractal Friedman equation along with its answer. Also included is the scale factor, which includes fractal structures for closed, flat and open universes. They offer fresh insights into the behavior and evolution of the universe through detailed plots that vividly illustrate their potential cosmological implications.
Enhancing Iris Authentication for Managing Multiple Cancellations: Leveraging Quotient Filters
Authors: Arepalli Gopi Suresh , Boobalan Pakkiri
Published: May 2024

Biometric authentication methods have become increasingly popular for their ability to offer secure and convenient access control. However, concerns about the privacy and security of biometric data have arisen. In this study, we present a novel approach to address these concerns by proposing a cancellable biometric encryption technique for secure and format-preserving iris authentication. Our method leverages the Quotient Filter data structure to transform encrypted iris templates into cancellable templates while preserving their original format. We carefully select an appropriate format-preserving encryption algorithm for iris templates and design a mapping scheme to achieve cancellability. To assess the effectiveness and performance of our approach, extensive experiments are conducted. The quantitative results indicate the efficiency and efficacy of our cancellable biometric encryption technique using the Quotient Filter. Our innovation, the Iris Authentication for Multiple Cancelled Instances Using a Quotient Filter (IAMCIQF), demonstrates competitive performance across several key metrics. IAMCIQF achieves a high level of security strength and strikes a balance between security and efficiency in terms of key size, encryption and decryption speeds and storage efficiency when compared to other existing techniques. The quantitative outcomes underscore IAMCIQF’s potential as a promising solution for attaining secure and format-preserving iris authentication, addressing critical concerns about biometric data security.
Recommender System Based on Unsupervised Clustering and Supervised Deep Learning
Authors: Sahni Dheeraj Kumar , Khurana Dhiraj , Kumar Yogesh
Published: May 2024

Nowadays, the Recommender System (RS) has gained much attention in industry and academia. RS offers valuable ideas to users while interacting with a website or application. With the advancements in the mobile environment (ME), the users’ interest has turned to the movie recommendation system. This model overcomes the problem of surplus information about movies and offers users only the relevant items by analyzing their interests and preferences. This work presents a hybrid movie recommendation system based on unsupervised clustering and supervised deep learning. Here, the dataset used is the IMDB movie reviews dataset. The clustering technique used is adaptive density-based clustering or adaptive DBSCAN. Next, the similarity calculation is performed using the cosine similarity metric. Finally, the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model integrated with the Adaptive Red Deer (ARD) Optimization offers the most relevant depictions on the movie list with higher accuracy. The implementation is performed on the MATLAB simulation environment. The system’s performance is measured in terms of accuracy, recall, precision, F-measure, RMSE and MAE.
Band-limited wavelets beyond Gevrey regularity
Authors: Teofanov Nenad , Tomić Filip , Tutić Stefan
Published: May 2024

It is known that a smooth function of exponential decay at infinity cannot be an orthonormal wavelet. Dziubański and Hernández constructed smooth orthonormal wavelets of Gevrey-type subexponential decay. We weaken the Gevrey-type decay and construct orthonormal wavelets of subexponential decay related to the so-called extended Gevrey classes. The virtue of our construction is that precise asymptotics of functions from such classes can be given in terms of the Lambert [Formula: see text]-function.
Application of (σ,δ)-cyclic codes in DNA codes over a non-chain ring
Authors: Singh Ashutosh , Sharma Priyanka , Prakash Om
Published: May 2024

For a prime [Formula: see text] and a positive integer [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] be the finite field of characteristic [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] be a non-chain ring for a positive integer [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the [Formula: see text]-cyclic codes over [Formula: see text]. Further, we study the application of these codes in finding DNA codes. Toward this, we first define a Gray map to find classical codes over [Formula: see text] using codes over the ring [Formula: see text]. Later, we find the conditions for a [Formula: see text]-cyclic code to be reversible. Finally, we provide DNA codes using this algebraic method with some classical codes of better parameters.
Global Supply Chain Disruptions, Commodity Price Shocks and Inflation in Japan
Authors: Wang Rui
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the concurrent occurrences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have led to global disruptions in supply chains and a surge in commodity prices. Major advanced economies have experienced an increase in inflation rates and a decline in economic activity. Against this economic backdrop, this paper aims to address the strained condition of supply chains by employing the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index (GSCPI) alongside commodity price indices. Furthermore, it seeks to examine how fluctuations in these variables affect Japan’s macroeconomic landscape through local projection and structural Vector Autoregression (VAR). In the local projection analysis, it has been observed that the strain on supply chains induces sustained increases in consumer and producer prices, further contributing to long-term declines in production. Within the structural VAR model framework, the identification of structural shocks is conducted through sign restrictions, affirming the significance of supply chain shocks and energy and food price shocks as crucial factors contributing to recent price increases. This confirmation is supported by variance decomposition and historical decomposition analyses.
Difference between Franchisers with and without Direct Retail Stores
Authors: Lee Jin Hyung
Published: May 2024

The new regulation was introduced to the franchise market of South Korea in that an applicant who wants to be a franchiser must set up direct retail stores and run them for at least one year before recruiting franchisees. Considering the purpose of the regulation, it is inferred that once franchisers run their own stores, their franchisees would be better off than otherwise. This paper addresses one reason that the Korea Fair Trade Commission has no choice but to introduce the regulation. Along the line, this paper investigates whether franchisees would have a more likelihood to make profit in case of franchisers operating their own stores. The result demonstrates that this case could be true since the operation of franchiser-owned stores could be helpful in reducing the cost of franchisees.
Elevating Security with Arm CCA
Authors: Garcia-Tobin Charles , Knight Mark
Published: May 2024

Confidential computing has great potential to improve the security of general-purpose computing platforms by taking supervisory systems out of the TCB, thereby reducing the size of the TCB, the attack surface, and the attack vectors that security architects must consider. Confidential computing requires innovations in platform hardware and software, but these have the potential to enable greater trust in computing, especially on devices that are owned or controlled by third parties. Early consumers of confidential computing will need to make their own decisions about the platforms they choose to trust. As confidential computing becomes mainstream, however, it's possible that certifiers and regulators will share this burden, enabling customers to make informed choices without having to undertake their own evaluations.
Porous Dielectric Structure and Response Speed of Moisture Sensors
Authors: Ali Ronak , Swartz Aaron , Badhan Riasad Azim , Ilka Reza , Wang Yiju , He Jiangbiao , Chen Zhi , Ren Ning , Zhang Z George , Wu Gefei , England Roger
Published: May 2024

We made moisture sensors using α-Al2O3 films as porous dielectric materials deposited through the anodic spark deposition (ASD). In this study, a variety number of small pores has been studied to investigate the response speed of moisture sensors. Three different surface morphologies have been studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Sample DM23 has the maximum number of small pores. Small pores are defined as pore size ranging from 40 nm to several hundred nm. Sample TA40 has the minimum number of small pores. Sample FW06 has the medium number of small pores. We found that the sensor made from dielectric material with the maximum number of small pores has the fastest response speed, and that from the minimum number of small pores has the slowest response speed either from high humidity to low humidity or from low humidity to high humidity.
(Invited) Advanced Compute Scaling: A New Era of Exciting, Sustainability-Aware Innovations with Nanosheet-Based Devices, Increased Interdisciplinary Synergies, and (R)Evolution Towards Higher Versatility
Authors: Veloso Anabela , Eneman Geert , Vermeersch Bjorn , Matagne Philippe , Loo Roger , Serbulova Kateryna , Chen Shih-Hung , Horiguchi Naoto , Ryckaert Julien
Published: May 2024

We report on several key elements for enabling advanced compute scaling. At transistor level, as we are entering the nanosheet (NS) era, the focus lies on single-level NSFETs consisting of several vertically stacked NS per device, which can evolve into 3D stacked configurations like the so-called complementary FET (CFET) with potentially different materials/crystal orientations for the stacked channels. New device connectivity schemes are also becoming possible thanks to the trend towards using both wafer sides, started with the move of on-chip power distribution to the wafer’s backside. As devices are becoming sandwiched and accessed from levels above and below them, that also allows interesting new opportunities for transistor engineering, some examples of which will be discussed here. In parallel, from a system level’s perspective, a (r)evolution towards smart disintegration, enabling higher flexibility and hybridized technology platforms, is expected to further allow new scaling paths, also as it can help ease the introduction of new materials and device architectures.
Hard Magnetic FePt Nanoparticles within Nanostructured Silicon to Improve the Maximum Energy Product
Authors: Rumpf Klemens , Granitzer Petra , Gonzalez-Rodriguez Roberto , Coffer Jeffery
Published: May 2024

In this work nanostructured silicon, silicon nanotubes (SiNTs) and porous silicon (PSi), with embedded hard magnetic FePt nanoparticles (NPs) is used as platform to create hard magnetic nanomagnet-arrays. The magnetic response of FePt-loaded composite materials is investigated, which have potential in high-performance magnets and as rare earth magnet alternatives. PSi/FePt demonstrates superior hard magnetic behavior with a higher coercivity and remanence compared to SiNTs/FePt. Varying the Fe:Pt molar ratio in deposits results in a small coercivity (HC) change. FePt-loaded samples consistently show increased coercivity and remanence compared to Co-loaded samples, with PSi exhibiting a stronger effect compared to SiNTs. Comparing FePt-loaded samples with Co-NP-loaded samples, in both template types an increase of the coercivity is observed for FePt. Also in the case of Co-loading the utilization of PSi offers higher coercivities compared to SiNTs. From the investigated composite systems the ones consisting of PSi and FePt offer the highest energy product.
Operation up to 225°C of NiO/ β-(Al0.21Ga0.79)2O3 /Ga2O3 Heterojunction Lateral Rectifiers
Authors: Wan Hsiao-Hsuan , Li Jian-Sian , Chiang Chao-Ching , Xia Xinyi , Ren Fan , Masten Hannah , Lundh James Spencer , Spencer Joseph , Alema Fikadu , Osinsky Andrei , Jacobs Alan G. , Hobart Karl D. , Tadjer Marko , Pearton Stephen J
Published: May 2024

The characteristics of NiO/ β-(Al0.21Ga0.79)2O3 /Ga2O3 heterojunction lateral geometry rectifiers with the epitaxial layers grown by Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition were measured over the temperature range from 25-225°C. The forward current increased with temperature, while the on-state resistance decreased from 360 Ω•cm2 at 25°C to 30 Ω.cm2 at 225°C. The forward turn-on voltage was reduced from 4 V at 25°C to 1.9 V at 225°C. The reverse breakdown voltage at room temperature was ~4.2 kV, with a temperature coefficient of -16.5 V/K. This negative temperature coefficient precludes avalanche being the breakdown mechanism and indicates that defects still dominate the reverse conduction characteristics. The corresponding power figures-of-merit were 0.27-0.49 MW.cm-2. The maximum on/off ratios improved with temperature from 2105 at 25°C to 3107 at 225°C when switching from 5 V forward to 0 V. The high temperature performance of the NiO/ β-(Al0.21Ga0.79)2O3 /Ga2O3 lateral rectifiers is promising if the current rate of optimization continues.
Design, Construction, and Performance Testing of a Collapsible Parabolic Dish Solar Cooker for Temperature Control
Authors: Mwinisin Peter , Yeboah Douglas , Annin Isaac
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes solar energy as a viable alternative to biomass fuels for cooking, introducing a collapsible parabolic solar cooker designed to regulate heat production. The collector is divided into three sectors, with a specific condition for effective convergence of reflected radiation. The total concentration ratio is 89.4, with the primary sector covering 42%, while sectors 2 and 3 occupy 29% each. In the analysis ASAE protocol was employed. The results obtained from the ASAE S580.1 test revealed a range of cooking power values, with a minimum of 215.5 W and a maximum of 280.9 W. The single measure of performance of the cooker was gauged at 234.17 W. Regarding the Standard Stagnation Temperature, it was observed that a reduction of the collector area by 0.343݉ଶ resulted in a temperature decrease of 59.5℃. The highest recorded SST for the entire solar cooker (when all three sectors were expanded) reached 279℃.
Experimental Investigation on Shear Strength and Microstructure of Chemically Treated Sisal Fiber‐Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Kahsay Abadi Haftu , Demiss Belachew Asteray
Published: May 2024

The incorporation of sisal fiber into the concrete matrix reduces waste disposal, which has negative environmental impacts. The aim of this study was to perform an experimental investigation on shear strength and microstructure of chemically treated sisal fiber‐reinforced concrete (SFRC). In order to accomplish the aim of the study, physical, shear, and mechanical properties of concrete reinforced with chemically treated sisal fiber have been performed. 0.50%, 1.00%, 1.25%, 1.50%, 1.75%, and 2.00% of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) treated sisal fiber were used as an addition to the dry weight average with the help of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) mix design procedure. After the 7th and 28th days of curing, shear strength according to the ASTM D5379M standard and the mechanical properties of concrete have been conducted. For microstructural properties, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were conducted after the concrete was cured for 28 days. Forty‐six percent and 20% compressive strength enhancement at the 7th and 28th days of curing was compared to the control mix. Twenty‐seven percent enhancement was recorded in the split tensile strength of 1.5% SFRC as compared to the control mix at 28 curing days. A shear strength of 1.5% SFRC was improved by 95% at the 7th curing days and 28% at the 28th curing days as compared to the control mix. As compared to conventional concrete, SFRC shows a denser microstructure. In addition to this, portlandite, quartz, calcium aluminum silicate, and C─S─H crystal are the available phases in the concrete matrix.
Maxillary Postsurgical Ciliated Cysts (PSCCs): A Series of Three Cases
Authors: Sfondrini Domenico , Pagella Fabio , Pellegrini Matteo , Ghizzoni Martina , Scribante Andrea , Tore Chiara , Marelli Stefano
Published: May 2024

Introduction. A postsurgical ciliated cyst (PSCC) is an epithelial cyst that usually develops in the maxilla, although in rare cases, it can affect the mandible or other facial bones. The typical age of diagnosis is 40‐50 years, with no gender prevalence, and the mean cyst development occurs approximately 10‐15 years following a surgical or traumatic event. Some epithelial respiratory cells can be trapped into the bone tissue during maxillary surgical procedures or maxillary fractures. The pathogenetic mechanism can be attributed to an inflammatory process that stimulates epithelial proliferation, leading to cyst expansion caused by osmotic pressure difference. Methods. This study presents case series involving three surgical ciliated cysts located in the left maxilla, affecting two female patients (aged 49 and 55 years) and one male patient (aged 39 years). In all three cases, symptoms such as pain or swelling were mild and not consistently present. Two cases showed cyst development 10 and 15 years after implant placement, while one case was not associated with any surgical or traumatic event. CT scan identified well‐defined unilocular lesions in the maxillary bone in each patient. Results. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimens confirmed the suspected diagnosis of a PSCC of maxilla. The cystic walls consisted of fibrous connective tissue with chronic inflammatory infiltrate, lined exclusively by a thin layer of ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium. In the third patient, it was not possible to rule out an unusual radicular cyst. Conclusions. Although PSCCs are not commonly encountered in daily practice, clinicians should consider this possibility including it in the differential diagnosis of odontogenic jaw cysts and benign jaw tumors, particularly in patients who have undergone previous surgeries in the maxillary area.
Newly Constructed Subway on Over‐Track Bridge Safety and Vibration Reduction Measure
Authors: Xu Yuan , Li Hui , Hou Jue , Zhu Liming , Chen Lingkun
Published: May 2024

Primarily generated at the interface between the wheel and the rail, railroad vibrations then propagate through the supporting soil. If these vibrations reach nearby bridges and buildings, they amplify the vibration nuisance and cause ground noise, which has detrimental effects on nearby residents, sensitive equipment, and historic structures. By analyzing measured data from metro vibration field vibration experiments, this article attempts to contribute to the body of knowledge on environmental vibration propagation patterns by offering insightful conclusions. Before analyzing the deformation response of the metro jet system (MJS) vibration isolation piles to the structure and the ground, we investigated the effect of MJS vibration isolation piles in the ground of the existing subway tunnel structure on the control of vibration of the proximate structure and conducted dynamic tests on the vibration of bridges without vibration isolation measures caused by operating subway trains. The tests determined that the acceleration of the bridge’s lateral vibration exceeded the code limit; one of the contributing factors was that the bridge’s structure had already sustained damage. The utilization of MJS isolation piles was also discovered to safeguard the extant bridge pile foundations. The paper presents an innovation in the form of economically viable vibration mitigation strategies that were implemented subsequent to the identification that the lateral vibration acceleration of the preexisting bridge surpassed the prescribed code standards. Considerable insight is gained regarding the design and implementation of vibration control systems for structures situated near caverns, encompassing deep foundation works.
Adding a Brief Continuous Glucose Monitoring Intervention to the National Diabetes Prevention Program: A Multimethod Feasibility Study
Authors: Richardson Kelli M. , Schembre Susan M. , da Silva Vanessa , Blew Robert M. , Behrens Nick , Roe Denise J. , Marvasti Farshad Fani , Hingle Melanie
Published: May 2024

The National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) promotes lifestyle changes to prevent diabetes. However, only one‐third of DPP participants achieve weight loss goals, and changes in diet are limited. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has shown potential to raise awareness about the effects of diet and activity on glucose among people with diabetes, yet the feasibility of including CGM in behavioral interventions for people with prediabetes has not been explored. This study assessed the feasibility of adding a brief CGM intervention to the Arizona Cooperative Extension National DPP. Extension DPP participants were invited to participate in a single CGM‐based education session and subsequent 10‐day CGM wear period, during which participants reflected on diet and physical activity behaviors occurring prior to and after hyperglycemic events. Following the intervention, participants completed a CGM acceptability survey and participated in a focus group reflecting on facilitators and barriers to CGM use and its utility as a behavior change tool. A priori feasibility benchmarks included opt‐in participation rates ≥ 50%, education session attendance ≥ 80%, acceptability scores ≥ 80%, and greater advantages than disadvantages of CGM emerging from focus groups, as analyzed using the Key Point Summary (KPS) method. Thirty‐five DPP members were invited to participate; 27 (77%) consented, and 24 of 27 (89%) attended the brief CGM education session. Median survey scores indicated high acceptability of CGM (median = 5, range = 1–5), with nearly all (n = 23/24, 96%) participants believing that CGM should be offered as part of the DPP. In focus groups, participants described how CGM helped them make behavior changes to improve their glucose (e.g., reduced portion sizes, increased activity around eating events, and meditation). In conclusion, adding a single CGM‐based education session and 10‐day CGM wear to the DPP was feasible and acceptable. Future research will establish the efficacy of adding CGM to the DPP on participant health outcomes and behaviors.
Allysine-Targeted Molecular MRI Enables Early Prediction of Chemotherapy Response in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ma Hua , Esfahani Shadi A. , Krishna Shriya , Ataeinia Bahar , Zhou Iris Y. , Rotile Nicholas J. , Weigand-Whittier Jonah , Boice Avery T. , Liss Andrew S. , Tanabe Kenneth K. , Caravan Peter
Published: May 2024

Neoadjuvant therapy is routinely used in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), but not all tumors respond to this treatment. Current clinical imaging techniques are not able to precisely evaluate and predict the response to neoadjuvant therapies over several weeks. A strong fibrotic reaction is a hallmark of a positive response, and during fibrogenesis, allysine residues are formed on collagen proteins by the action of lysyl oxidases. Here, we report the application of an allysine-targeted molecular MRI probe, MnL3, to provide an early, noninvasive assessment of treatment response in PDAC. Allysine increased 2- to 3-fold after one dose of neoadjuvant therapy with FOLFIRINOX in sensitive human PDAC xenografts in mice. Molecular MRI with MnL3 could specifically detect and quantify fibrogenesis in PDAC xenografts. Comparing the MnL3 signal before and 3 days after one dose of FOLFIRINOX predicted subsequent treatment response. The MnL3 tumor signal increased by 70% from day 0 to day 3 in mice that responded to subsequent doses of FOLFIRINOX, whereas no signal increase was observed in FOLFIRINOX-resistant tumors. This study indicates the promise of allysine-targeted molecular MRI as a noninvasive tool to predict chemotherapy outcomes.

Significance: Allysine-targeted molecular MRI can quantify fibrogenesis in pancreatic tumors and predict response to chemotherapy, which could guide rapid clinical management decisions by differentiating responders from nonresponders after treatment initiation.
Data from The Impact of Improved Treatments on Survival of Adult U.S. Leukemia Patients: 1990–2018
Authors: Howlader Nadia , Sharon Elad , Bhattacharya Manami , Ehrlich Lori A. , Richardson Nicholas C. , Gormley Nicole J. , de Claro R. Angelo , Wood Amy E. , Mariotto Angela B. , Cronin Kathleen A.
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroduction:
Molecularly targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) are effective treatments for B-cell receptor (BCR)-ABL–bearing leukemias. We evaluated the impact of TKIs on historical chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) mortality trends compared with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL).
Methods:
Because mortality trends reflect combined effects of leukemia incidence and survival, we also evaluated the contribution of incidence and survival trends to mortality trends by subtypes. We used data from 13 U.S. (SEER) registries (1992–2017) among U.S. adults. We utilized histology codes to identify cases of CML, ALL, and CLL and death certificate data to calculate mortality. We used Joinpoint to characterize incidence (1992–2017) and mortality (1992–2018) trends by subtype and diagnosis year.
Results:
For CML, mortality rates started declining in 1998 at an average rate of 12% annually. Imatinib was approved by the FDA for treating CML and ALL in 2001, leading to clear benefits for patients with CML. Five-year CML survival increased dramatically over time, especially between 1996 to 2011, 2.3% per year on average. ALL incidence increased 1.5% annually from 1992 to 2017. ALL mortality decreased 0.6% annually during 1992 to 2012 and then stopped declining. CLL incidence fluctuated during 1992 to 2017 while mortality decreased 1.1% annually during 1992 to 2011 and at a faster rate of 3.6% per year from 2011. Five-year survival increased 0.7% per year on average during 1992 to 2016.
Conclusions:
Survival benefit from TKIs and other novel therapies for treating leukemia subtypes has been demonstrated in clinical trials.
Impact:
Our study highlights the impact of molecularly targeted therapies at the population level.
Abstract A025: Integrating genomic alterations and histopathological features for enhanced risk stratification in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Lillesand Melinda , Kvikstad Vebjørn , Gudlaugsson Einar , Skaland Ivar , Johannessen Aida Slewa , Tesfahun Almaz Nigatu , Sperstad Sigmund Vegard , Janssen Emiel A.M. , Austdal Marie
Published: May 2024

Urothelial carcinoma is the most prevalent type of bladder cancer, where non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) accounts for about 75% of the initial diagnosis. Recognizing the limitations of current WHO04/16 grading and TNM staging systems, this study investigates genomic alterations, mitotic activity index (MAI) and immunohistochemical (IHC) markers CK20, p53, and CD25 to identify better prognostic biomarkers in NMIBC. In this retrospective population-based study of NMIBC patients (n=287), a targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel analysis was performed using Oncomine™ Focus Assay on Ion GeneStudio S5 platform to identify genomic changes, including single nucleotide variations (SNVs) and copy number variations (CNVs) across 52 genes. The results revealed that the most frequent gene variants were identified in FGFR3 (n=183, 45%) and PIK3CA (n=98, 24%), while AKT1 (n=39, 20%), ERBB2 (n=24, 12%), MYCN (n=23, 12%) and CCND1 (n=22, 11%) were among the most amplified genes. Distinct genetic associations were observed among Ta, T1, low-grade (LG), and high-grade (HG) tumors. Ta tumors were significantly associated with FGFR3 and PIK3CA mutations, while T1 tumors were linked to ERBB2 mutations (p<0.001). Additionally, LG tumors were enriched with FGFR3 mutations, while HG tumors were significantly associated with FGFR1, CCND1, and ERBB2 mutations (p<0.001). In the analysis of tumor recurrence, patients with FGFR3 mutations had significantly shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS) (p=0.033). Analysis of stage progression revealed a significant association between FGFR3 mutations and improved PFS (p<0.001), while MYC, ERBB2 (p<0.001), and MYCN (p=0.011) were linked to shorter PFS. In gene set enrichment analysis, gene sets like PIK3CA and ERBB2 (p=0.003), and PIK3CA and MYC (p=0.005), were inversely associated with progression-free survival (PFS). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, MAI was the strongest predictor for PFS (p<0.001). The study emphasizes the potential of combining genomic alterations with histopathological features for enhanced risk stratification in NMIBC patients.

Citation Format: Melinda Lillesand, Vebjørn Kvikstad, Einar Gudlaugsson, Ivar Skaland, Aida Slewa Johannessen, Almaz Nigatu Tesfahun, Sigmund Vegard Sperstad, Emiel A.M. Janssen, Marie Austdal. Integrating genomic alterations and histopathological features for enhanced risk stratification in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Bladder Cancer: Transforming the Field; 2024 May 17-20; Charlotte, NC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(10_Suppl):Abstract nr A025.
Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: May 2024

Hemangiosarcoma and angiosarcoma are soft-tissue sarcomas of blood vessel–forming cells in dogs and humans, respectively. These vasoformative sarcomas are aggressive and highly metastatic, with disorganized, irregular blood-filled vascular spaces. Our objective was to define molecular programs which support the niche that enables progression of canine hemangiosarcoma and human angiosarcoma. Dog-in-mouse hemangiosarcoma xenografts recapitulated the vasoformative and highly angiogenic morphology and molecular characteristics of primary tumors. Blood vessels in the tumors were complex and disorganized, and they were lined by both donor and host cells. In a series of xenografts, we observed that the transplanted hemangiosarcoma cells created exuberant myeloid hyperplasia and gave rise to lymphoproliferative tumors of mouse origin. Our functional analyses indicate that hemangiosarcoma cells generate a microenvironment that supports expansion and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitor populations. Furthermore, gene expression profiling data revealed hemangiosarcoma cells expressed a repertoire of hematopoietic cytokines capable of regulating the surrounding stromal cells. We conclude that canine hemangiosarcomas, and possibly human angiosarcomas, maintain molecular properties that provide hematopoietic support and facilitate stromal reactions, suggesting their potential involvement in promoting the growth of hematopoietic tumors.

Significance:

We demonstrate that hemangiosarcomas regulate molecular programs supporting hematopoietic expansion and differentiation, providing insights into their potential roles in creating a permissive stromal-immune environment for tumor progression.