bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practitioners' ability to retool the economy: The role of agency in local economic resilience to plant closures in Ontario
Authors: Sutton Jesse , Arku Godwin , Sadler Richard , Hutchenreuther John , Buzzelli Michael
Published: February 2024

Economic resilience focuses on how localities react and respond to shocks. A recent conceptual advancement, known as the agency perspective and rooted in evolutionary thinking, highlights that economic actors (e.g., practitioners, firms, and institutions) play an essential role in localities' resilience. However, empirical investigations into the role of economic actors have been scarce. To address this shortcoming, in this study we conducted in‐depth interviews with 22 practitioners (economic development officials) from various cities in Ontario, Canada. Through an evolutionary lens, we examine practitioners' perceptions of and responses to endogenous shocks—notably, major industrial plant closures over the past 20 years. We find that practitioners influence localities' resilience through each dimension of the resilience process. Most notably, they support their localities' adaption through various short‐ and long‐term adaptive strategies. Also, we find that economic actors have different capacities and resources at their disposal to respond to shocks depending on the size of their city and its geographical location. Regarding the latter, we reiterate a commonly noted north‐south divide in the province. In addition, we find that economic actors are constrained by multi‐scalar policies, and thus operate in the confines of existing power and political structures.
Shedding light on dermographism: a narrative review
Authors: Zhang Li , Peng Cong , Li Jie
Published: February 2024

Dermographism is a common subtype of chronic urticaria. It generally manifests as a linear wheal after scratching or friction, with or without angioedema. The pathophysiology is not clear, but currently, we believe that the stimulation of the skin by mechanical stress leads to the activation of mast cells, which provoke the release of histamine and pro‐inflammatory mediators, ultimately forming wheal along the stressed area. The gold standard for diagnosis is a medical history and provocation test or dermatographic test. As one of the subtypes of chronic urticaria, the Urticaria Control Test (UCT), Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life questionnaire (CU‐Q2oL), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) are also effective tools for evaluating disease control in dermographism patients. In addition to avoiding triggers, nonsedating H1 antihistamines are the first‐line medications recommended by EAACI and other guidelines; for those who do not respond to standard doses, the recommended dosage can be increased up to 4 times. When necessary, the off‐label use of omalizumab can be considered, and some drugs with potential therapeutic effects are still being explored. However, there is still a lack of biomarkers for predicting disease severity, efficacy, and prognosis. Here, we review what we know about dermographism and some points that need exploration in the future.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune‐inflammatory index as markers of response to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ocaña‐Ramm Guillermo , Gallardo‐Pérez Moisés Manuel , Garcés‐Eisele Solón Javier , Sánchez‐Bonilla Daniela , Robles‐Nasta Max , Hernández‐Flores Edgar Jared , Hamilton‐Avilés Luis Enrique , Negrete‐Rodríguez Paola , Melgar‐de‐la‐Paz Miranda , Lira‐Lara Olivia , Olivares‐Gazca Juan Carlos , Ruiz‐Delgado Guillermo J. , Ruiz‐Argüelles Guillermo J.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Biomarkers that help to evaluate the immune system and could be useful in multiple sclerosis (MS) are the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune‐inflammatory index (SII). The objective of this work is to evaluate the significance of the SII index, PLR, and NLR before and after transplantation in individuals with MS who underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (aHSCT) at a single institution.

Methods

Patients with MS who received an aHSCT between 2017 and 2022 were included in the study. NLR, PLR, and SII index were calculated prior to the transplant and 100 days after, and evaluation of the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) was done before the transplant and 12 months after. The cohort was divided into two groups: aHSCT responders (R) and nonresponders (NR).

Results

Fifty‐eight individuals were examined: 37 patients in the responders group R group and 21 in NR group. There was no statistically significant difference in the SII, NLR, and PLR prior to the transplant, however at 100 days post‐HSCT, NLR in the R group was 1.8 versus 3.1 in the NR group (p = 0.003), PLR was 194 versus 295, respectively (p = 0.024), meanwhile SII index was 489.5 versus 729.3 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

High NLR and SII index values after the aHSCT were associated with a worsening in the EDSS score. However, since this is the first ever study that compared NLR and SII index with the aHSCT response in persons with MS, further studies must be performed to corroborate this information.
Risk assessment and pathogen profile of surgical site infections in traumatic brain injury patients undergoing emergency craniotomy: A retrospective study
Authors: Feng Wenxian , Sun Changqing , Hao Sha , Yang Jie , Wang Pengfei , Wang Zong , Liu Xiatong , Lou Jinfeng , Yang Yang
Published: February 2024

Emergency craniotomy in patients with traumatic brain injury poses a significant risk for surgical site infections (SSIs). Understanding the risk factors and pathogenic characteristics of SSIs in this context is crucial for improving outcomes. This comprehensive retrospective analysis spanned from February 2020 to February 2023 at our institution. We included 25 patients with SSIs post‐emergency craniotomy and a control group of 50 patients without SSIs. Data on various potential risk factors were collected, including demographic information, preoperative conditions, and intraoperative details. The BACT/ALERT3D Automated Bacterial Culture and Detection System was utilized for rapid bacterial pathogen identification. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify significant risk factors for SSIs. The study identified Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus as the most prevalent pathogens in SSIs. Significant risk factors for SSIs included the lack of preoperative antibiotic use, postoperative drainage tube placement, diabetes mellitus, and the incorporation of invasive procedures, all of which showed a significant association with SSIs in the univariate analysis. The multivariate analysis further highlighted the protective effect of preoperative antibiotics and the increased risks associated with anaemia, diabetes mellitus, postoperative drainage tube placement, and the incorporation of invasive procedures. Our research underscores the critical role of factors like insufficient preoperative antibiotics, postoperative drainage, invasive techniques, anaemia, and diabetes mellitus in elevating the risk of surgical site infections in traumatic brain injury patients undergoing emergency craniotomy. Enhanced focus on these areas is essential for improving surgical outcomes.
High insulation resistivity and low dielectric loss in (Ta, Al)‐codoped BaTiO3 colossal permittivity materials
Authors: Fan Jiangtao , He Gang , Long Zhen , Hu Zhanggui
Published: February 2024

Low insulation resistivity is a key factor limiting the practical application of colossal permittivity (CP) ceramics in electronic components. In this study, BaTiO3–0.01Ta2O5–xAl2O3 (BTAx, x = 0.005, 0.01, 0.015, 0.02) CP ceramics with high insulation resistance were successfully prepared by sintering in N2. In particular, BTA0.015 ceramic exhibits CP (εr = 2.01 × 105, 1 kHz), low dielectric loss (tanδ = 0.044, 1 kHz), high insulation resistivity (ρv = 1.4 × 109 Ω cm, DC voltage (DC) 100 V), and superior frequency and thermal stability (20 Hz–1 MHz, room temperature–350°C). The polarization mechanism, dielectric and insulating properties were investigated by different atmosphere processing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and impedance analysis. Moderate doping of Al2O3 facilitates the construction of electron‐pinned defect dipoles, which improves the dielectric properties. In addition, the ceramics feature an extremely fine grain size, which is conducive to suppressing the long‐range migration of delocalized electrons. The combination of electron pinning defect dipole effects and internal barrier layer capacitance effects are the responsible for the giant dielectric constant. This research shows that the defect dipole‐dependent polarization can be employed to design highly insulating BaTiO3‐based CP ceramics.
Spatial transcriptomic analysis of tumour–immune cell interactions in melanoma arising from congenital melanocytic nevus
Authors: Lim Youngkyoung , Cho Beom Keun , Kang Seong‐Jun , Jeong Soyoung , Kim Hyun Je , Baek Jiyoon , Moon Ji Hwan , Lee Cheol , Park Chan‐Sik , Mun Je‐Ho , Won Chong Hyun , Park Chung‐Gyu
Published: February 2024

Background

Studies on the interaction between tumour‐infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and tumour cells in melanoma arising from congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) are lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the intratumoral immune landscape of TIICs and tumour cells during invasion and metastasis.

Methods

Tissue specimens were obtained from patients with melanoma originating from CMN. Differential gene expression in melanoma cells and TIICs during invasion and metastasis was determined using spatial transcriptomics.

Results

As invasion depth increased, the expression of LGALS3, known to induce tumour‐driven immunosuppression, increased in melanoma cells. In T cells, the expression of genes that inhibit T‐cell activation increased with increasing invasion depth. In macrophages, the expression of genes related to the anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype was upregulated with increasing invasion depth. Compared to primary tumour cells, melanoma cells in metastatic lesions showed upregulated expression of genes associated with cancer immune evasion, including AXL and EPHA2, which impede T‐cell recruitment, and BST2, associated with M2 polarization. Furthermore, T cells showed increased expression of genes related to immunosuppression, and macrophages exhibited increased expression of genes associated with the M2 phenotype.

Conclusions

The interaction between melanomas arising from CMN and TIICs may be important for tumour progression and metastasis.
Income predictability and budgeting
Authors: Zhang C. Yiwei , Sussman Abigail B.
Published: February 2024

Unpredictable income poses a significant threat to economic stability for many U.S. households. While budgeting may help to mitigate some of the negative effects of unpredictable income, the process of budgeting can also be more challenging under such circumstances. This paper presents new descriptive evidence on the relationship between income predictability, financial wellbeing, and budgeting behavior using data from a nationally‐representative survey of nearly 4000 U.S. adults. We document a strong negative relationship between income unpredictability and financial wellbeing. However, the strength of this negative relationship is substantially attenuated for those who budget. This suggests that budgeting may be a useful tool for mitigating the adverse effects of unpredictable income. Despite these benefits, the propensity to budget is significantly lower among those with the most unpredictable income. These findings indicate the need for policy reforms that insure households against unpredictable income in addition to efforts targeting individual‐level financial management strategies.
Human health and the health of Planet Earth go together
Authors: Antó Josep M.
Published: February 2024

The emergence of the planetary health approach was highlighted by the report of The Rockefeller Foundation‐Lancet Commission on Planetary Health in 2015 and changed how we comprehend human well‐being. The report advocates integrating the health of other living beings and Earth's natural systems as intrinsic components of human health. Drawing on over three decades of experience in respiratory epidemiology and environmental health, this article outlines how my perspective on human health underwent a transformative shift upon reading the abovementioned report. The planetary health approach offers a lens through which human health issues and potential solutions can be understood within the context of the Anthropocene. It addresses the pressing existential challenges arising from humanity's transgression of planetary limits. Embracing the planetary health paradigm within the field of health sciences can catalyze transformative changes essential for cultivating a sustainable and equitable future.
Stearoyl‐CoA desaturase regulates organelle biogenesis and hepatic merozoite formation in Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Narwal Sunil Kumar , Mishra Akancha , Devi Raksha , Ghosh Ankit , Choudhary Hadi Hasan , Mishra Satish
Published: February 2024

Plasmodium is an obligate intracellular parasite that requires intense lipid synthesis for membrane biogenesis and survival. One of the principal membrane components is oleic acid, which is needed to maintain the membrane's biophysical properties and fluidity. The malaria parasite can modify fatty acids, and stearoyl‐CoA Δ9‐desaturase (Scd) is an enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of oleic acid by desaturation of stearic acid. Scd is dispensable in P. falciparum blood stages; however, its role in mosquito and liver stages remains unknown. We show that P. berghei Scd localizes to the ER in the blood and liver stages. Disruption of Scd in the rodent malaria parasite P. berghei did not affect parasite blood stage propagation, mosquito stage development, or early liver‐stage development. However, when Scd KO sporozoites were inoculated intravenously or by mosquito bite into mice, they failed to initiate blood‐stage infection. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that organelle biogenesis was impaired and merozoite formation was abolished, which initiates blood‐stage infections. Genetic complementation of the KO parasites restored merozoite formation to a level similar to that of WT parasites. Mice immunized with Scd KO sporozoites confer long‐lasting sterile protection against infectious sporozoite challenge. Thus, the Scd KO parasite is an appealing candidate for inducing protective pre‐erythrocytic immunity and hence its utility as a GAP.
Rhizosheath drought responsiveness is variety‐specific and a key component of belowground plant adaptation
Authors: Steiner Franziska A. , Wild Andreas J. , Tyborski Nicolas , Tung Shu‐Yin , Koehler Tina , Buegger Franz , Carminati Andrea , Eder Barbara , Groth Jennifer , Hesse Benjamin D. , Pausch Johanna , Lüders Tillmann , Vahl Wouter K. , Wolfrum Sebastian , Mueller Carsten W. , Vidal Alix
Published: February 2024

Biophysicochemical rhizosheath properties play a vital role in plant drought adaptation. However, their integration into the framework of plant drought response is hampered by incomplete mechanistic understanding of their drought responsiveness and unknown linkage to intraspecific plant–soil drought reactions.

Thirty‐eight Zea mays varieties were grown under well‐watered and drought conditions to assess the drought responsiveness of rhizosheath properties, such as soil aggregation, rhizosheath mass, net‐rhizodeposition, and soil organic carbon distribution. Additionally, explanatory traits, including functional plant trait adaptations and changes in soil enzyme activities, were measured.

Drought restricted soil structure formation in the rhizosheath and shifted plant–carbon from litter‐derived organic matter in macroaggregates to microbially processed compounds in microaggregates. Variety‐specific functional trait modifications determined variations in rhizosheath drought responsiveness. Drought responses of the plant–soil system ranged among varieties from maintaining plant–microbial interactions in the rhizosheath through accumulation of rhizodeposits, to preserving rhizosheath soil structure while increasing soil exploration through enhanced root elongation.

Drought‐induced alterations at the root–soil interface may hold crucial implications for ecosystem resilience in a changing climate. Our findings highlight that rhizosheath soil properties are an intrinsic component of plant drought response, emphasizing the need for a holistic concept of plant–soil systems in future research on plant drought adaptation.
Temporal dynamics of genetic architecture governing leaf development in Populus
Authors: Li Peng , He Yuling , Xiao Liang , Quan Mingyang , Gu Mingyue , Jin Zhuoying , Zhou Jiaxuan , Li Lianzheng , Bo Wenhao , Qi Weina , Huang Rui , Lv Chenfei , Wang Dan , Liu Qing , El‐Kassaby Yousry A. , Du Qingzhang , Zhang Deqiang
Published: February 2024

Leaf development is a multifaceted and dynamic process orchestrated by a myriad of genes to shape the proper size and morphology. The dynamic genetic network underlying leaf development remains largely unknown.

Utilizing a synergistic genetic approach encompassing dynamic genome‐wide association study (GWAS), time‐ordered gene co‐expression network (TO‐GCN) analyses and gene manipulation, we explored the temporal genetic architecture and regulatory network governing leaf development in Populus.

We identified 42 time‐specific and 18 consecutive genes that displayed different patterns of expression at various time points. We then constructed eight TO‐GCNs that covered the cell proliferation, transition, and cell expansion stages of leaf development. Integrating GWAS and TO‐GCN, we postulated the functions of 27 causative genes for GWAS and identified PtoGRF9 as a key player in leaf development. Genetic manipulation via overexpression and suppression of PtoGRF9 revealed its primary influence on leaf development by modulating cell proliferation. Furthermore, we elucidated that PtoGRF9 governs leaf development by activating PtoHB21 during the cell proliferation stage and attenuating PtoLD during the transition stage.

Our study provides insights into the dynamic genetic underpinnings of leaf development and understanding the regulatory mechanism of PtoGRF9 in this dynamic process.
The impact of scrambler therapy on pain and quality of life for chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy: A pilot study
Authors: Chung Matthew , Chen Tsun Hsuan , Wang Xin Shelley , KIM Kyung‐Hoon , Abdi Salahadin
Published: February 2024

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating disturbance among patients who received chemotherapy, with no effective treatment available. Scrambler therapy (ST) is a noninvasive treatment capable of improving multiple quality‐of‐life symptoms beyond pain. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ST for pain and nonpain symptoms related to CIPN.

Methods

Ten patients with moderate to severe CIPN symptoms for >3 months were enrolled in a single‐arm trial of ST for 10 daily sessions. CIPN‐related symptoms were measured throughout the treatment period and up to 6 months thereafter.

Results

The worst pain was reduced by 6 months (p = 0.0039). QST demonstrated the greatest improvement in pressure of 60 g (p = 0.308, Cohen's d = 0.42) and cold temperature threshold of 2.5°C (p = 0.9375, Cohen's d = 0.51) in the gastrocnemius area. Symptoms of numbness, tingling, trouble walking, and disturbed sleep had significant improvements at 6 months. Pain medication use decreased by 70% at the end of treatment and by 42% at 6 months. Patient satisfaction was high (82%) and no adverse events with ST treatment were reported.

Conclusions

The results of this pilot trial support the use of ST by demonstrating improvement in multiple domains of quality of life for CIPN patients during an extended follow‐up of 6 months. However, further large‐scale studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Regulation and development: Theoretical contributions and empirical lessons from Latin America
Authors: Dussauge‐Laguna Mauricio I. , Elizondo Alejandra , González Camilo Ignacio , Lodge Martin
Published: February 2024

How do regulation and development relate to each other? Despite the centrality of this question to the worlds of research and practice, surprisingly little scholarship has reflected on the nexus between regulation and development. Existing studies are mainly concerned with the design and operation of regulatory institutions and instruments in developed countries. Regulatory propositions about “developing” countries have, however, remained at a rather general level. This introductory article and the following set of contributions intend to broaden our understanding on how regulation and development relate to each other with a particular emphasis on Latin America. This article introduces key debates and themes as well as an analytical framework that incorporates the various dimensions of the regulation‐development nexus. It also discusses the literature on regulation in Latin America. Following a brief overview of the articles in this special issue, we conclude with reflections regarding future research on the relationship between regulation and development.
Radiofrequency identification tracking system (RFID) significantly improves blood bank inventory management and decreases staff work effort
Authors: da Souza Antoine Tavares , Flores Jennylyn , Millendez Loevette , Filio Marites , Mo Yunchuan Delores , Jacquot Cyril , Delaney Meghan
Published: February 2024

Background

Before implementation of the radio frequency identification (RFID) system, there was a high loss rate of 4.0%–4.3% of red blood cell (RBC) units every year expiring on the shelf in our transfusion service laboratory. We introduced RFID technology to improve inventory management and the burden of work on the staff. The goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of RFID technology on the inventory management of RBC units and the staff workload in a transfusion service laboratory.

Study Design and Methods

Using an RFID system involves encoding RBC units with an RFID tag capturing information such as donor identification number, product code, blood type, expiration date, product volume, and negative antigen(s). Tag information is collected through retrofitted storage shelves linked to the RFID server. The study analyzed RBC usage by unit and by volume (mL) and staff work effort to carry out inventory management tasks before and after the implementation of the RFID system.

Results

Implementation of the RFID technology reduced the loss, or discard, of RBC units to less than 1% annually (a statistically significant change, p < .001). The RFID computer dashboard provides a constant visual update of the inventory, allowing technologists to have accurate product counts and reducing their work burden.

Discussion

Implementation of RFID technology substantially reduced RBC product loss, improved inventory management, and lessened staff work burden.
Telangiectatic osteosarcoma in four dogs: Cytologic, histopathologic, cytochemical, and immunohistochemical findings
Authors: Cagle Laura A. , Maisel Morgan , Conrado Francisco O. , Wait Courtney , Peper Katherine , Lochhead Tannis , Vo Thao , Dolan Jacqueline K. , de Oliveira Helena Hauck , Bosch Sarah , Walker Randall , Fox‐Alvarez Stacey A. , Porter Erin , Carrera‐Justiz Sheila , Lanier Christopher J. , Hoffmann Aline Rodrigues , Dark Michael J. , Sharkey Leslie C.
Published: February 2024

Telangiectatic osteosarcoma is a rare variant of osteosarcoma histologically and clinically similar to hemangiosarcoma (HSA). This case series describes the imaging and cytologic features of four histologically confirmed telangiectatic osteosarcomas, including the use of cytochemical stains. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was applied to Wright–Giemsa‐stained cytology slides, and Factor VIII immunohistochemistry was evaluated. Cytologic characteristics included atypical mesenchymal cells with evidence of acute and chronic hemorrhage. Telangiectatic osteosarcoma cases had positive ALP cytochemical staining, while control HSA cases were negative. Factor VIII immunohistochemistry was negative in telangiectatic osteosarcoma and positive in HSA. Cytologic diagnosis of telangiectatic osteosarcoma with positive ALP cytochemical staining can help differentiate this neoplasm from HSA.
EL ESPACIO PÚBLICO COMO TERRITORIO. ENTRE LA FILOSOFÍA OCCIDENTAL Y LAS FILOSOFÍAS AMERICANAS
Authors:   Universidad del Centro del Bajío, Ojeda Sampson Alejandra
Published: February 2024

El ser humano es y existe en un lugar y tiempo determinado por lo que el espacio y el tiempo son ónticos en su constitución, así como de la realidad. Esto lo signa de manera particular dadas las condiciones de ese sitio de inserción. A pesar de esa consustancialidad, la tradición filosófica eurocéntrica ha permeado y dirigido toda actividad de reflexión y actuar en América, entre otros. Las construcciones sobre esos aspectos, entre muchas más, emanadas de los pueblos llamados originarios, han sido clasificadas, según esa filosofía en formas mágicas o mitos, eliminando la racionalidad que las constituye. Derivado de esa ‘universalidad’ de reflexionar se ha actuado sobre el territorio, sea éste urbano o rural. Pensar a la ciudad en términos de estructura espacial y social, ha sido desde la postura eurocéntrica, dejándola como ‘forma civilizatoria’. Las reflexiones y filosofías de los pueblos de América, entre otros, han generado sus propias construcciones que les explican su estar en el mundo. Aunado a la filosofía eurocentrista que observa el espacio fuera del sujeto, el sistema capitalista mercantiliza todo incluyendo el territorio que lo trata como cosa, volviendo el espacio público ahora en los fraccionamientos tipo clúster en un lugar clasista, excluyente y fragmentador del tejido social. Es necesario si se piensa regenerar ese tejido social recuperar el pensamiento de ser-comunidad. Es necesario repensar la ciudad y sus espacios públicos como lugares existenciales de una comunidad, no de cosas externas a las personas.
Contribution to knowledge of the oribatid mite genus Protozetes (Acari, Oribatida, Microzetidae), with description of a new species from Guatemala
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G.
Published: February 2024

The genus Protozetes (Oribatida, Microzetidae) is recorded in Guatemala for the first time. A new species—Protozetes janosbaloghi sp. nov.—is described from damp litter in an alpine cloud forest in Guatemala. It differs from all known species of the genus in the number of the interlamellar apophyses, the morphology of the head of the bothridial seta, the ornamentation of the pteromorph, and the length of the interlamellar and notogastral setae. A revised generic diagnosis is presented. An identification key and data on distribution and habitat of the known species of Protozetes are provided.
Faithful quantum teleportation through common and independent qubit-noise configurations and multi-parameter estimation in the output of teleported state
Authors: Hosseiny Seyed Mohammad , Seyed-Yazdi Jamileh , Norouzi Milad
Published: February 2024

Quantum teleportation allows the transmission of unknown quantum states over arbitrary distances. This paper studies quantum teleportation via two non-interacting qubits coupled to local fields and Ornstein Uhlenbeck noise. We consider two different qubit-noise configurations, i.e., common qubit-noise interactions and independent qubit-noise interactions. We introduce a Gaussian Ornstein Uhlenbeck process to take into account the noisy effects of the local external fields. Furthermore, we address the intrinsic behavior of classical fields toward single- and two-qubit quantum teleportation as a function of various parameters. Additionally, using a quantum estimation theory, we study single- and multi-parameter estimation of the teleported state output for single and two-qubit quantum teleportation scenarios. One important application of this work is obtaining more valuable information in quantum remote sensing.
Revealing the mechanism of interfacial adhesion enhancement between the SiO2 film and the GaAs substrate via plasma pre-treatments
Authors: He Zhiwei , Liu Chanjuan , Gao Jiuru , Li Zichao , Xu Kaidong , Zhuang Shiwei
Published: February 2024

The formation mechanism of a highly adherent silicon dioxide (SiO2) film on gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrate by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) is proposed. Ar, N2, and NH3 were used as pre-treatment gas to improve the interfacial adhesion. The interfacial adhesion was measured by the cross-cut tape test. By the measurement of spectroscopic ellipsometry and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), it is revealed that nitrogen plasma pre-treatment had formed a very thin GaN transition layer on the surface, which was responsible for the improvement of interfacial adhesion. XPS depth-profiling further confirmed various pre-treatment gases generate plasma mixtures and form thin film layers with different compositions on the GaAs surface. These layers have a significant impact on the adhesion of the subsequently prepared SiO2 film. The primary mechanism for improving interfacial adhesion is the renovation of the substrate composition via plasma pre-treatment by PECVD, which forms a transition layer of nitrides that eliminates the negative effects of oxides on adhesion. This study reveals the mechanism of interfacial adhesion enhancement between SiO2 film and GaAs substrate, which is of significant importance in fabricating high-performance and reliable semiconductor devices.
Meat from gene-edited pigs could hit the market
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: February 2024

United States and other countries may soon approve virus-proof pigs
Clostridioides difficile
infection: history, epidemiology, risk factors, prevention, clinical manifestations, treatment, and future options
Authors: Di Bella Stefano , Sanson Gianfranco , Monticelli Jacopo , Zerbato Verena , Principe Luigi , Giuffrè Mauro , Pipitone Giuseppe , Luzzati Roberto
Published: February 2024

Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI) is one of the major issues in nosocomial infections. This bacterium is constantly evolving and poses complex challenges for clinicians, often encountered in real-life scenarios. In the face of CDI, we are increasingly equipped with new therapeutic strategies, such as monoclonal antibodies and live biotherapeutic products, which need to be thoroughly understood to fully harness their benefits. Moreover, interesting options are currently under study for the future, including bacteriophages, vaccines, and antibiotic inhibitors. Surveillance and prevention strategies continue to play a pivotal role in limiting the spread of the infection. In this review, we aim to provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of epidemiological aspects, predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tools, and current and future prophylactic and therapeutic options for
C. difficile
infection.
Supplemental Material: Middle Jurassic to Early Cretaceous orogenesis in the Klamath Mountains Province (Northern California–southern Oregon, USA) occurred by tectonic switching: Insights from detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology of the Condrey Mountain schist
Authors: Chapman Alan D. , al. et
Published: February 2024

U-Pb zircon data from the Condrey Mountain schist and adjacent units.
Added benefit and revenues of oncology drugs approved by the European Medicines Agency between 1995 and 2020: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Brinkhuis Francine , Goettsch Wim G , Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje K , Bloem Lourens T
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the added benefit and revenues of oncology drugs, explore their association, and investigate potential discrepancies between added benefit and revenues across different approval pathways of the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Oncology drugs and their indications approved by the EMA between 1995 and 2020.

Main outcome measures

Added benefit was evaluated using ratings published by seven organisations: health technology assessment agencies from the United States, France, Germany, and Italy, two medical oncology societies, and a drug bulletin. All retrieved ratings were recategorised using a four point ranking scale to indicate negative or non-quantifiable, minor, substantial, or major added benefit. Revenue data were extracted from publicly available financial reports and compared with published estimates of research and development (R&D) costs. Finally, the association between added benefit and revenue was evaluated. All analyses were performed within the overall study cohort, and within subgroups based on the EMA approval pathway: standard marketing authorisation, conditional marketing authorisation, and authorisation under exceptional circumstances.

Results

131 oncology drugs with 166 indications were evaluated for their added benefit by at least one organisation within the required timeframe, yielding a total of 458 added benefit ratings; 189 (41%) were negative or non-quantifiable. The median time to offset the median R&D costs ($684m, £535m, €602m, adjusted to 2020 values) was three years; 50 of 55 (91%) drugs recovered these costs within eight years. Drugs with higher added benefit ratings generally had greater revenues. Negative or non-quantifiable added benefit ratings were more frequent for conditional marketing authorisations and authorisations under exceptional circumstances than for standard marketing authorisations (relative risk 1.53, 95% confidence interval 1.23 to 1.89). Conditional marketing authorisations generated lower revenues and took longer to offset R&D costs than standard marketing authorisations (four years compared with three years).

Conclusions

While revenues seem to align with added benefit, most oncology drugs recover R&D costs within a few years despite providing little added benefit. This is particularly true for drugs approved through conditional marketing authorisations, which inherently appear to lack comprehensive evidence. Policy makers should evaluate whether current regulatory and reimbursement incentives effectively promote development of the most effective drugs for patients with the greatest needs.
‘ARVs are a constant reminder of lost freedom, whereas for others, they are liberating’: understanding the treatment narrative among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Malawi and Zimbabwe–a qualitative study
Authors: Gumede-Moyo Sehlulekile , Sharma Sunny , Gwanzura Clorata , Nyirenda Rose , Mkandawire Philip , Chatora Kumbirai , Hasen Nina
Published: February 2024

Objective

The aim of the research was to understand what drives and motivates young women living with HIV in their treatment journeys, as well as their key influencers. The findings will assist in appreciating their obstacles to treatment and constructing the most effective ways to convey fresh messages to them. These insights will contribute to the messaging developed for a campaign across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily Malawi and Zimbabwe.

Design

This was a qualitative study conducted in order to build an understanding of unknown parts of the HIV treatment journey through in-depth interviews. A hybrid approach was used to conduct thematic analysis.

Setting and participants

Study participants were HIV-positive women, their influencers (eg, parents/partners/siblings/aunts and uncles/religious leaders, etc) and healthcare providers from a range of regions in Zimbabwe and Malawi.

Results

A total of 26 young people living with HIV (PLHIV), 29 healthcare providers and 24 influencers such as maternal figures in the community were interviewed. Two main broad insights were drawn, that is, key needs and wider contextual factors. The key needs of young PLHIV to stay on treatment were empathy, support and emotional connection with antiretroviral therapy (ART), while the wider contextual factors impacting their treatment journeys were structural challenges and cultural reference points. Fear of shame and humiliation can also be significant barriers to disclosure and treatment. The fear predisposes the PLHIV to the need for empathy, support and connection with ART. Mental health and anxiety appear to be comorbid with HIV. Some PLHIV have a small and limited support network leading to very few people living openly with HIV. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, and maximising campaign reach will likely need a multifaceted approach.

Conclusion

Currently, the relationship between nurses and PLHIV can appear to be transactional. Through learning about the community (including PLHIV), there are more chances of communicating in a way that resonates.
Screening and early warning system for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with obstructive sleep apnoea based on the medical Internet of Things in three levels of healthcare: protocol for a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study
Authors: Pan Zihan , Liao Sha , Sun Wanlu , Zhou Haoyi , Lin Shuo , Chen Dian , Jiang Simin , Long Huanyu , Fan Jing , Deng Furong , Zhang Wenlou , Chen Baiqi , Wang Junyi , Huang Yongwei , Li Jianxin , Chen Yahong
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are prevalent respiratory diseases in China and impose significant burdens on the healthcare system. Moreover, the co-occurrence of COPD and OSA exacerbates clinical outcomes significantly. However, comprehensive epidemiological investigations in China remain scarce, and the defining characteristics of the population affected by COPD and OSA, alongside their intrinsic relationship, remain ambiguous.

Methods and analysis

We present a protocol for a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study based on a digital health management platform across three different healthcare tiers in five sites among Chinese patients with COPD. The study aims to establish predicative models to identify OSA among patients with COPD and to predict the prognosis of overlap syndrome (OS) and acute exacerbations of COPD through the Internet of Things (IoT). Moreover, it aims to evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of IoT in managing chronic diseases within clinical settings. Participants will undergo baseline assessment, physical examination and nocturnal oxygen saturation measuring. Specific questionnaires screening for OSA will also be administered. Diagnostic lung function tests and polysomnography will be performed to confirm COPD and OSA, respectively. All patients will undergo scheduled follow-ups for 12 months to record the changes in symptoms, lung functions and quality of life. Primary outcomes include the prevalence and characteristics of OS, while secondary outcomes encompass OS prognosis and the feasibility of the management model in clinical contexts. A total of 682 patients with COPD will be recruited over 12–24 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by Peking University Third Hospital, and all study participants will provide written informed consent. Study results will be published in an appropriate journal and presented at national and international conferences, as well as relevant social media and various stakeholder engagement activities.

Trial registration number

NCT04833725.
Camrelizumab in combination with chemotherapy versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy for the conversion of locally advanced unresectable oesophageal squamous carcinoma: protocol for a two-arm, open-label phase II trial
Authors: Chen Maohui , Huang Yizhou , Zhang Shuliang , Zheng Yixiong , Zeng Taidui , Chen Chun , Zheng Bin
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Oesophageal cancer (OC) has higher morbidity and mortality rate than most other malignancies. The standard treatment for unresectable locally advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is concurrent chemoradiotherapy, with tumour regression observed in a proportion of patients after treatment, but prognostic improvement remains limited. Immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy (CT) has been shown to be efficacious as the first-line treatment of advanced OC and neoadjuvant therapy. Therefore, we conducted a prospective, two-arm, randomised, unblinded phase II study to explore the efficacy of camrelizumab in combination with CT versus chemoradiotherapy for the conversion of unresectable advanced OSCC.

Methods and analysis

All participants meeting the inclusion criteria will be enrolled after signing an informed consent form. Patients with clinically cT4b or spread to at least one group of lymph nodes with possible invasion of surrounding organs and unresectable locally advanced squamous carcinoma of the thoracic segment of the oesophagus will be included in the study. Patients with suspected distant metastases on the preoperative examination will be excluded from this study. Patients eligible for enrolment will be grouped by centre randomisation according to the study plan. Patients will undergo radical surgery after completion of two cycles of chemotherapy (CT) combined with camrelizumab induction therapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy if assessed to be operable. Patients evaluated as inoperable will be scheduled for a multidisciplinary consultation to determine the next treatment option. The primary endpoint is the R0 resection rate in patients undergoing surgery after treatment. Secondary endpoints are the rate of major pathological remission, pathological complete response rate, overall survival, progression-free survival and adverse events for all patients.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the ethics committees of Fujian Medical University Union Hospital (No. 2022YF039-02). The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

NCT05821452.
Anti-racist interventions to reduce ethnic disparities in healthcare in the UK: an umbrella review and findings from healthcare, education and criminal justice
Authors: Yip Jennifer L Y , Poduval Shoba , de Souza-Thomas Leah , Carter Sophie , Fenton Kevin
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To assess the evidence for anti-racist interventions which aim to reduce ethnic disparities in healthcare, with a focus on implementation in the UK healthcare system.

Design

Umbrella review.

Data sources

Embase, Medline, Social Policy and Practice, Social Care Online and Web of Science were searched for publications from the year 2000 up to November 2023.

Eligibility criteria

Only systematic and scoping reviews of anti-racist interventions reported in English were included. Reviews were excluded if no interventions were reported, no comparator interventions were reported or the study was primarily descriptive.

Data extraction and synthesis

A narrative synthesis approach was used to integrate and categorise the evidence on anti-racist interventions for healthcare. Quality appraisal (including risk of bias) was assessed using the AMSTAR-2 tool.

Results

A total of 29 reviews are included in the final review. 26 are from the healthcare sector and three are from education and criminal justice. The most promising interventions targeting individuals include group-based health education and providing culturally tailored interventions. On a community level, participation in all aspects of care pathway development that empowers ethnic minority communities may provide an effective approach to reducing ethnic health disparities. Interventions to improve quality of care for conditions with disproportionately worse outcomes in ethnic minority communities show promise. At a policy level, structural interventions including minimum wage policies and integrating non-medical interventions such as housing support in clinical care has some evidence for improving outcomes in ethnic minority communities.

Conclusions

Many of the included studies were low or critically low quality due to methodological or reporting limitations. For programme delivery, different types of pathway integration, and providing a more person-centred approach with fewer steps for patients to navigate can contribute to reducing disparities. For organisations, there is an overemphasis on individual behaviour change and recommendations should include a shift in focus and resources to policies and practices that seek to dismantle institutional and systemic racism through a multilevel approach.
Formative evaluation of an emergency department clinical decision support system for agitation symptoms: a study protocol
Authors: Wong Ambrose H , Nath Bidisha , Shah Dhruvil , Kumar Anusha , Brinker Morgan , Faustino Isaac V , Boyce Michael , Dziura James D , Heckmann Rebekah , Yonkers Kimberly A , Bernstein Steven L , Adapa Karthik , Taylor Richard Andrew , Ovchinnikova Polina , McCall Terika , Melnick Edward R
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The burden of mental health-related visits to emergency departments (EDs) is growing, and agitation episodes are prevalent with such visits. Best practice guidance from experts recommends early assessment of at-risk populations and pre-emptive intervention using de-escalation techniques to prevent agitation. Time pressure, fluctuating work demands, and other systems-related factors pose challenges to efficient decision-making and adoption of best practice recommendations during an unfolding behavioural crisis. As such, we propose to design, develop and evaluate a computerised clinical decision support (CDS) system, Early Detection and Treatment to Reduce Events with Agitation Tool (ED-TREAT). We aim to identify patients at risk of agitation and guide ED clinicians through appropriate risk assessment and timely interventions to prevent agitation with a goal of minimising restraint use and improving patient experience and outcomes.

Methods and analysis

This study describes the formative evaluation of the health record embedded CDS tool. Under aim 1, the study will collect qualitative data to design and develop ED-TREAT using a contextual design approach and an iterative user-centred design process. Participants will include potential CDS users, that is, ED physicians, nurses, technicians, as well as patients with lived experience of restraint use for behavioural crisis management during an ED visit. We will use purposive sampling to ensure the full spectrum of perspectives until we reach thematic saturation. Next, under aim 2, the study will conduct a pilot, randomised controlled trial of ED-TREAT at two adult ED sites in a regional health system in the Northeast USA to evaluate the feasibility, fidelity and bedside acceptability of ED-TREAT. We aim to recruit a total of at least 26 eligible subjects under the pilot trial.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval by the Yale University Human Investigation Committee was obtained in 2021 (HIC# 2000030893 and 2000030906). All participants will provide informed verbal consent prior to being enrolled in the study. Results will be disseminated through publications in open-access, peer-reviewed journals, via scientific presentations or through direct email notifications.

Trial registration number

NCT04959279; Pre-results.