bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental footprinting of hospitals: Organizational life cycle assessment of a Canadian hospital
Authors: Cimprich Alexander , Young Steven B.
Published: July 2023

Healthcare is a critical and complex service sector with direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions amounting to 5%–10% of the national total in developed economies like Canada and the United States. Along with a growing, albeit sporadic, set of life cycle assessment (LCA) (and “carbon footprinting”) studies of specific medical products and procedures, there is growing interest in “environmental footprinting” of hospitals. In this article, we advance this rapidly evolving area through a comprehensive organizational LCA of a 40‐bed hospital in British Columbia, Canada, in its 2019 fiscal year. Our results indicate that the total environmental footprint of the hospital includes, among other things, global warming potential of 3500–5000 t CO2 eq. (with 95% confidence). “Hotspots” in this footprint are attributable to energy and water use (and wastewater released), releases of anesthetic gases (which are potent GHGs), and the upstream production of the thousands of materials, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other products used in the hospital. The generalizability and comparability of these results are limited by inconsistencies across the few environmental footprinting studies of hospitals conducted to date. Nonetheless, our novel methodological approach, in which we compiled new LCA data for 200 goods and services used in healthcare—strategically selected to statistically represent the 2927 unique products in the hospital's “supply‐chains”—has broad applicability in healthcare and beyond.
The effect of informing the patient about the procedure with video imaging before office hysteroscopy on pain
Authors: Çallıoğlu Nihal , Kanza Gül Derya , Özer Aslan İlke , Fendal Tunca Aysun , Başlı Kasım Kardelen , Akay Burcu , Uysal Elif , Ekin Murat
Published: July 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effect of informing patients undergoing diagnostic office hysteroscopy via a video 24 h before the procedure and determine the changes in pain scores, channel transit time, the degree of difficulty of the procedure, and physiological parameters.

Design

Single‐blind randomized controlled trial.

Setting

The study was conducted between September 1, 2021 and April 1, 2022 at the University of Health Sciences Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital.

Participants

A total of 134 patients aged 18–65 years who needed diagnostic office hysteroscopy.

Interventions

Participants were randomized into two groups, the standard information group (Group 1: controls), and the video information + standard information group (Group 2). After office hysteroscopy, a visual analog scale (VAS) and Likert scale were used to assess pain and the degree of difficulty of the procedure, respectively. Physiological parameters were evaluated before and after the procedure.

Main Outcome Measure

To determine the effect of video‐based multimedia information administered 24 h before office hysteroscopy on post‐procedure pain.

Results

The mean VAS score of the group that watched the training video (3.02 ± 1.88) was significantly lower than the control group (4.72 ± 2.54) who did not watch the training video (p < 0.001). The mean cervical channel transit time in seconds (sec) during the procedure was found to be significantly higher in the control group (21.57 ± 15.10 s) than in the video‐watching group (p = 0.011). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of physiological parameters and the degree of ease of the procedure.

Conclusion

Our study has shown that informing patients in a pre‐procedure video is an effective approach that shortens the duration of the channel transit time and reduces pain.
Analyst coverage, executive compensation and corporate risk‐taking: Evidence from property–casualty insurance firms
Authors: Chen Tao , Kamiya Shinichi , Lou Pingyi , Milidonis Andreas
Published: July 2023

Using an exogenous drop in analyst coverage introduced by broker closures and mergers, we test for the causal impact of analyst coverage on corporate risk‐taking, in an opaque industry. We document an increase in risk using several book‐based and market‐based risk measures, including tail and default risk measures. Results are driven by firms with stronger managerial risk‐taking compensation incentives. The increase in risk is stronger in more opaque firms, and firms with weaker policyholder monitoring. Firm risk increases through at least one risk‐taking action, such as investing firm assets in higher‐risk bonds. Our study highlights the importance of stock analysts in affecting corporate risk‐taking, especially in the presence of stronger managerial, compensation risk‐taking incentives.
Interest rate, price level, and the inflation rate: Evidence from the UK during the gold standard regimes
Authors: Choudhry Taufiq
Published: July 2023

This paper empirically investigates the Gibson Paradox and the Fisher Effect for the UK during different metallic and non‐metallic regimes. The paper applies long‐span monthly data on the long‐term interest rate and the price index from 1790 to 1931. The ARDL cointegration is employed to study the long‐term relationship. Significant evidence is provided for the paradox during the uninterrupted gold standard era of the UK (1821–1914). We also find evidence of the paradox during the short‐term gold exchange standard era (1925–1931). Further results also confirm the Fisher Effect during the 1821–1914 period, providing some backing to its ability to explain the paradox. This is further asserted by the short‐run mutual influence between the rate of interest and the inflation rate.
Nanoscale reorganisation of synaptic proteins in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhu Wang‐Hui , Yang Xiao‐Xu , Gou Xu‐Zhuo , Fu Shu‐Mei , Chen Jia‐Hui , Gao Feng , Shen Yong , Bi Dan‐lei , Tang Ai‐Hui
Published: July 2023

Aims

Synaptic strength depends strongly on the subsynaptic organisation of presynaptic transmitter release and postsynaptic receptor densities, and their alterations are expected to underlie pathologies. Although synaptic dysfunctions are common pathogenic traits of Alzheimer's disease (AD), it remains unknown whether synaptic protein nano‐organisation is altered in AD.

Here, we systematically characterised the alterations in the subsynaptic organisation in cellular and mouse models of AD.

Methods

We used immunostaining and super‐resolution stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy imaging to quantitatively examine the synaptic protein nano‐organisation in both Aβ1–42‐treated neuronal cultures and cortical sections from a mouse model of AD, APP23 mice.

Results

We found that Aβ1–42‐treatment of cultured hippocampal neurons decreased the synaptic retention of postsynaptic scaffolds and receptors and disrupted their nanoscale alignment to presynaptic transmitter release sites. In cortical sections, we found that while GluA1 receptors in wild‐type mice were organised in subsynaptic nanoclusters with high local densities, receptors in APP23 mice distributed more homogeneously within synapses. This reorganisation, together with the reduced overall receptor density, led to reduced glutamatergic synaptic transmission. Meanwhile, the transsynaptic alignment between presynaptic release‐guiding RIM1/2 and postsynaptic scaffolding protein PSD‐95 was reduced in APP23 mice. Importantly, these reorganisations were progressive with age and were more pronounced in synapses in close vicinity of Aβ plaques with dense cores.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a spatiotemporal‐specific reorganisation of synaptic nanostructures in AD and identifies dense‐core amyloid plaques as the major local inductor in APP23 mice.
Influence of soil drying followed by flooding on micronutrient solubilization
Authors: Khan Sidra U. , Hooda Peter S. , Blackwell Martin S. A. , Busquets Rosa
Published: July 2023

Flooding is known to solubilize soil nutrients, particularly those associated with redox‐sensitive metals (Fe/Mn). Both soil flooding and drying are becoming more common due to climate change, but it is not clear how soil drying prior to flooding influences nutrient solubilization in soils, compared with flooding of already moist soils. This study was designed to examine how soil drying followed by extended flooding might influence solubilization of micronutrient metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Zn and Ni). A series of laboratory mesocosm experiments was carried out by flooding samples of two contrasting grassland soils, which had each been either dried (40°C for 10 days) or kept at field moisture conditions (25%, w/w). The flooding of dried soils generally resulted in higher concentrations of the micronutrients (Mn, Co, Ni and Cu) in the water columns relative to their moist‐flooded counterparts. The results demonstrate that the flooding‐induced variations in pH and redox potential influence solubilization of micronutrients in the soils. The mobilization of Co and Ni appeared to be controlled by redox‐driven reductive dissolution of Fe/Mn minerals. This was supported by significant (p < .001) negative correlations between redox and metals: Co (r = −.712), Ni (r = −.784) and the positive correlations between Fe and metals: Co (r = .763) and Ni (r = .714) and between Mn and other metals: Co (r = .909) and Ni (r = .811). However, there were no significant correlations of Zn and Cu with Fe and Mn. The results suggest that soil drying followed by flooding has the potential to promote greater solubilization of soil micronutrients compared with flooding of moist soils, with potential implications for soil fertility and catchment water quality under future changes in weather patterns driven by climate change.
Reactive Force Field (ReaxFF) and Universal Force Field Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Solid Electrolyte Interphase Components in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Nagar Anshul , Garg Akhil , Singh Surinder , Gao Liang , Kim Jonghoon , Wei Kexiang
Published: July 2023

Understanding solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is essential for the diagnosis of lithium-ion batteries because many aspects of battery performance such as safety and efficiency depend on these characteristics. LiF, Li2O, and Li2CO3 are important inorganic components of SEI. This electrode–electrolyte surface forms during the battery’s first charging/discharging cycle, preventing electrons’ movement through the electrolyte and stabilizing the lithium-ion battery. However, the concern is inorganic SEI components cause rate limitation of lithium-ion diffusivity through the SEI layer. Lithium-ion diffusivity through the SEI layer depends on many factors such as temperature, the width of the SEI layer, and the concentration/density of the layer. Lithium-ion diffusivity dependence on temperature, at working temperatures of lithium-ion batteries was observed at temperatures from 250 K to 400 K and diffusion coefficient data at higher temperatures have also been observed. Lithium-ion diffusivity at varying concentration/density was also observed in this paper using the reactive force field (ReaxFF) molecular dynamic simulation. To improve the lithium-ion diffusivity, vacancy defects were created in the inorganic components of the SEI layer LiF, Li2O, and Li2CO3 and the diffusion coefficient was obtained using the ReaxFF molecular dynamic simulations. Another approach to improve the lithium-ion diffusivity is doping alkali metal ions such Na, Ca, K, and Mg in the inorganic components of SEI layers of LiF, Li2O, and Li2CO3 and simulated using the universal force field (UFF), and the diffusion coefficient was observed.
ERK2 stimulates
MYC
transcription by anchoring CDK9 to the
MYC
promoter in a kinase activity–independent manner
Authors: Agudo-Ibáñez Lorena , Morante Marta , García-Gutiérrez Lucía , Quintanilla Andrea , Rodríguez Javier , Muñoz Alberto , León Javier , Crespo Piero
Published: July 2023

The transcription factor MYC regulates cell proliferation, transformation, and survival in response to growth factor signaling that is mediated in part by the kinase activity of ERK2. Because ERK2 can also bind to DNA to modify gene expression, we investigated whether it more directly regulates
MYC
transcription. We identified ERK2 binding sites in the
MYC
promoter and detected ERK2 at the promoter in various serum-stimulated cell types. Expression of nuclear-localized ERK2 constructs in serum-starved cells revealed that ERK2 in the nucleus—regardless of its kinase activity—increased
MYC
mRNA expression and MYC protein abundance. ERK2 bound to the promoter through its amino-terminal insert domain and to the cyclin-dependent kinase CDK9 (which activates RNA polymerase II) through its carboxyl-terminal conserved docking domain. Both interactions were essential for ERK2-induced
MYC
expression, and depleting ERK impaired CDK9 occupancy and RNA polymerase II progression at the
MYC
promoter. Artificially tethering CDK9 to the
MYC
promoter by fusing it to the ERK2 insert domain was sufficient to stimulate
MYC
expression in serum-starved cells. Our findings demonstrate a role for ERK2 at the
MYC
promoter acting as a kinase-independent anchor for the recruitment of CDK9 to promote
MYC
expression.
The 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes in Turkey: Seismic Movements along Conjugated Faults
Authors: Tikhotsky S. A. , Tatevosyan R. E. , Rebetsky Yu. L. , Ovsyuchenko A. N. , Larkov A. S.
Published: July 2023

The earthquakes in Turkey (Kahramanmaraş province) in February 2023 do not fit into the usual mainshock–aftershocks sequence. According to Bath’s statistical law [1], the magnitude of the strongest aftershock is expected to be one less than the magnitude of the mainshock. Meanwhile, for the aftershock sequence in Turkey, the difference in magnitude is only 0.1. In Turkish publications, the first of the strongest earthquakes is called Pazardzhik (Mw = 7.8) and the second, Elbistan (Mw = 7.7). Each of these earthquakes generated its own system of surface ruptures and aftershock sequences differently oriented in space. The purpose of this study is to assess whether the occurrence of the second earthquake is due to a stress field that existed earlier or if it arose as a result of the mainshock. If the second scenario was realized, the stress field can be almost instantly changed in the vicinity of a strong earthquake (the time difference between the earthquakes was less than nine hours).
How can we best chart children’s growth in the paperless age? The UK experience
Authors: Wright Charlotte Margaret , Chapman Simon , Cole Tim J
Published: July 2023

Growth charts have played an integral part in the monitoring and assessment of children’s health for the past 50 years, but their use is now under threat as paperless electronic systems become more widely used. While the obvious solution is to adopt electronic charting systems, this can prove challenging in practice. This article describes the key issues to consider in planning this transition and the charting options available, ranging from bespoke local systems to commercial packages and a new initiative by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
A new far-UVC class tricarboxylate-Bi-based metal organic frameworks grown by hydrothermal method
Authors: Zeryab Irum , Rani Malika , Shah Aqeel Ahmad , Siddiqui Rabia , Neffati R. , Sharif Muhammad Nawaz , Khan M. Ajmal
Published: July 2023

The new class of Tricarboxylate-Bismuth (TB)-based Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) was attempted, using the impressive capability of alkaline earth metal Bismuth (Bi), to realize more massive complex structures for real-world applications including supercapacitors, energy storage devices, biomedical imaging, drug delivery, fluorescence sensing and far-UVC applications. The grown structure and band gap of the TB-based MOFs samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy, and Ultraviolet-Visible Absorption Spectroscopy (UV-Vis spectra), respectively. The SEM observation identifies the TB-based MOFs nanosheet layered with orthorhombic structure, which shows strong agglomeration with a grain size of 668 nm. The EDS analysis indicates the presence of Bi-peaks as well as carbon peaks (organic linkers) in the grown samples. Furthermore, the peak of TB-based MOFs structure during the Raman spectroscopy was also confirmed. The optical band gap of the newly synthesized TB-based MOFs was estimated and the optical band gap ([Formula: see text] approximately [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]eV was confirmed. These findings open the possibility of Bi-based MOFs for the applications in far-UVC emission range.
Experimental measurements of soiling impact on current and power output of photovoltaic panels
Authors: Tseng Ming-Lang , Eshaghi Nazanin , Gassoumi Abdelaziz , Dehkalani Mehran Mohseni , Gorji Nima E.
Published: July 2023

We have investigated the impact of three different soiling types (dust, leaf, rainfall) on the current–voltage and power–voltage characteristics of a solar panel located at different locations. The current and power losses were measured regularly for 50 days (10-day interval). The soiling ratio was calculated to be a reliable parameter for soiling impact assessment. The source of current and power losses due to soiling was rooted by measuring the transmittance loss and panel surface temperature increase, external quantum efficiency and electroluminescence spectrum recorded for the range of 950–1300 nm. The results confirm leaves as the most detrimental soling type with 38% power loss compared to dust and raindrop and the lowest loss in current density and power was related to raindrop (29%). This is confirmed by the significant decrease in the soiling ratio of the leaf-soiled panels from 0.9 to [Formula: see text] in 50 days. Electroluminescence spectra confirm the critical impact of leaf-soiling on defect generation in the materials and a reduced photocurrent generation. Leaf could reduce the current and power of the panel from 14[Formula: see text]A to 12[Formula: see text]A and from 190[Formula: see text]W to 100[Formula: see text]W, respectively.
GREEN RETIREMENT HOMES IN CHINA — BACKGROUND AND CASE STUDY
Authors: OBERHEITMANN ANDREAS , RUAN XIAODONG
Published: July 2023

This paper analyzes China’s age structure until 2100. China is aging severely having tremendous impact on the young generation to care for the elderly people. Against this background, retirement homes with more centralized care for older people will become more and more important. As on the other side, the Chinese population is more and more preferring a low carbon economy and a climate friendly living style in smart cities. Hence, Green retirement homes are expected to be the first choice of accommodation for older people in the future. This paper sheds light on the most important characteristics of Green retirement homes and provides for a concrete example.
Ameliorative Effect of Olea europaea Leaf Extract on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in the Rat Model
Authors: Ibrahim Doa’a , Halboup Abdulsalam , Al Ashwal Mohammed , Shamsher Amani
Published: July 2023

Background. Olea europaea leaf extract (OELE) has potential health benefits and protects against cytotoxicity. This study investigated the possible ameliorative effect of OELE on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Methods. Rats were assigned into six groups; two groups received 150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of OELE, one group received a single dose of cisplatin (6 mg/kg) IP on the first day of the experiment, two groups received a single dose of cisplatin 150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of OELE on the first day then starting from the fifth day for 10 consecutive days, and one group acted as a control. Results and Conclusion. The findings showed that cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was evidenced by a significant increase in serum creatinine blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and a significant decrease in estimated creatinine clearance and potassium level, which corresponded with the alterations in the histopathology of the renal tissue. OELE significantly ameliorated the nephrotoxic effects of cisplatin as dose-dependent.
Panoramic Motion Perception Inspired Fly Visual Brain Joint Neural Network on Omnidirectional Collision Detection
Authors: Li Lun , Zhang Zhuhong , Jia Wensheng , Lu Jiaxuan
Published: July 2023

Biological systems have a great number of visual motion detection neurons, some of which can preferentially react to specific visual regions. Nevertheless, little work has been performed about how they can be used to develop neural network models for omnidirectional collision detection. Hereby, an artificial fly visual brain neural network with presynaptic and postsynaptic subnetworks, for the first time, is developed to detect the changes of visual motion in panoramic scenes. Herein, the presynaptic subnetwork, which originates from the preferential response characteristics of five fly visual neurons, responds to all the moving objects in the panoramic field; the postsynaptic network, which is based on the properties of the angle and height detection neurons in the fly’s brain system, collects the excitatory intensities of the visual neurons, and outputs the real‐time activities of the main object closest to the panoramic camera. Hereafter, a computational model is constructed to implement omnidirectional collision detection, relying upon the artificial visual brain neural network and three functional neurons. The theoretical analysis has verified that the collision detection model’s computational complexity depends mainly on the image input resolution. Three experimental conclusions can be clearly drawn: (i) the motion characteristics of the main object in the panoramic environment can be clearly exhibited in the neural network; (ii) the collision detection model can not only outperform the compared models but also successfully perform omnidirectional collision detection; and (iii) it spends 0.24 s or so to execute visual information processing per frame with the resolution of 120 × 80.
Supplementary Table S3 from Dissecting the Mechanisms Underlying the Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Mediated by T-Cell Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Leclercq-Cohen Gabrielle , Steinhoff Nathalie , Albertí Servera Llucia , Nassiri Sina , Danilin Sabrina , Piccione Emily , Yángüez Emilio , Hüsser Tamara , Herter Sylvia , Schmeing Stephan , Gerber Petra , Schwalie Petra , Sam Johannes , Briner Stefanie , Jenni Sylvia , Bianchi Roberta , Biehl Marlene , Cremasco Floriana , Apostolopoulou Katerina , Haegel Hélène , Klein Christian , Umaña Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Table S3. Specification of reagents for flow cytometry (HUVEC staining)
Supplementary Figure S2 from Phase I trial of Ganitumab plus Dasatinib to Cotarget the Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor and Src Family Kinase YES in Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Akshintala Srivandana , Sundby R. Taylor , Bernstein Donna , Glod John W. , Kaplan Rosandra N. , Yohe Marielle E. , Gross Andrea M. , Derdak Joanne , Lei Haiyan , Pan Alexander , Dombi Eva , Palacio-Yance Isabel , Herrera Kailey R. , Miettinen Markku M. , Chen Helen X. , Steinberg Seth M. , Helman Lee J. , Mascarenhas Leo , Widemann Brigitte C. , Navid Fariba , Shern Jack F. , Heske Christine M.
Published: July 2023

Serial samples demonstrate recurrent loci with copy number alterations for each patient.
Supplementary Figure S7 from Dissecting the Mechanisms Underlying the Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Mediated by T-Cell Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Leclercq-Cohen Gabrielle , Steinhoff Nathalie , Albertí Servera Llucia , Nassiri Sina , Danilin Sabrina , Piccione Emily , Yángüez Emilio , Hüsser Tamara , Herter Sylvia , Schmeing Stephan , Gerber Petra , Schwalie Petra , Sam Johannes , Briner Stefanie , Jenni Sylvia , Bianchi Roberta , Biehl Marlene , Cremasco Floriana , Apostolopoulou Katerina , Haegel Hélène , Klein Christian , Umaña Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Figure S7. Overview of average expression and fraction positives per cell type, timepoint and treatment condition for cytokines that are differentially expressed in neutrophils, monocytes, pDC, cDC, B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, MAIT cells and/or NK cells treatment vs. control any timepoint. The untreated condition corresponds to the pooled baseline samples and incubation control samples. Mean of n= 4 donors (baseline, and 20 hrs) and n=2 donors (2 hrs, 4 hrs and 6 hrs).
Supplementary Figure S5 from Dissecting the Mechanisms Underlying the Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Mediated by T-Cell Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Leclercq-Cohen Gabrielle , Steinhoff Nathalie , Albertí Servera Llucia , Nassiri Sina , Danilin Sabrina , Piccione Emily , Yángüez Emilio , Hüsser Tamara , Herter Sylvia , Schmeing Stephan , Gerber Petra , Schwalie Petra , Sam Johannes , Briner Stefanie , Jenni Sylvia , Bianchi Roberta , Biehl Marlene , Cremasco Floriana , Apostolopoulou Katerina , Haegel Hélène , Klein Christian , Umaña Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Figure S5. Overview of GO Biological process pathways found enriched in A. CD4+ T cells (6 hrs), B. CD8+ T cells (6 hrs), C. monocytes (6 hrs) and D. neutrophils (4 hrs) after treatment with 0.2 μg/mL CD20-TCB.
Data from Dissecting the mechanisms underlying the Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) mediated by T Cell Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Leclercq-Cohen Gabrielle , Steinhoff Nathalie , Albertí-Servera Llucia , Nassiri Sina , Danilin Sabrina , Piccione Emily , Yángüez Emilio , Hüsser Tamara , Herter Sylvia , Schmeing Stephan , Gerber Petra , Schwalie Petra , Sam Johannes , Briner Stefanie , Jenni Sylvia , Bianchi Roberta , Biehl Marlene , Cremasco Floriana , Apostolopoulou Katerina , Haegel Hélène , Klein Christian , Umana Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Target-dependent TCB activity can result in strong and systemic release of cytokines that may develop into Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), highlighting the need to understand and prevent this complex clinical syndrome. Experimental design: We explored the cellular and molecular players involved in TCB-mediated cytokine release by single cell RNA sequencing of whole blood treated with CD20-TCB together with bulk RNA sequencing of endothelial cells exposed to TCB-induced cytokine release. We used the in vitro whole blood assay and an in vivo DLBCL model in immunocompetent humanized mice to assess the effects of dexamethasone, anti-TNF-a, anti-IL-6R, anti-IL-1R and inflammasome inhibition, on TCB-mediated cytokine release and anti-tumor activity. Results: Activated T cells release TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-8 and MIP-1β, which rapidly activate monocytes, neutrophils, DCs and NKs along with surrounding T cells to amplify the cascade further, leading to TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6, IL-1β, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β and IP-10 release. Endothelial cells contribute to IL-6 and IL-1β release and at the same time release several chemokines (MCP-1, IP-10, MIP-1α and MIP-1β). Dexamethasone and TNF-α blockade efficiently reduced CD20-TCB-mediated cytokine release while IL-6R blockade, inflammasome inhibition and IL1-R blockade induced a less pronounced effect. Dexamethasone, IL-6R blockade, IL-1R blockade and the inflammasome inhibitor did not interfere with CD20-TCB activity, in contrast to TNF-α blockade, which partially inhibited anti-tumor activity. Conclusion: Our work sheds a new light on the cellular and molecular players involved in cytokine release driven by TCBs and provides rationale for the prevention of CRS in patients treated with TCBs.
Molecular phylogeny of Vetigastropoda reveals non-monophyletic Scissurellidae, Trochoidea, and Fissurelloidea
Authors:   Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA, GEIGER DANIEL L. , THACKER CHRISTINE E. ,   Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA
Published: July 2023

A molecular phylogeny using cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, Histone H3, and 18S rRNA, comprising 3038 aligned characters, was developed for 38 ingroup vetigastropods and two neritimorph outgroups. Vetigastropoda is diagnosed by the presence of bursicles and their presence and absence in putative vetigastropod groups is discussed. The molecular data support the monophyly of Fissurellidae, Haliotidae, Lepetodrilidae, Pleurotomariidae, and Peltospiridae; single exemplar taxa were available for Clypeosectidae, Cocculinidae, Neomphalidae, and Anatomidae. The monophyly of Scissurellidae s.l. (Scissurellinae plus Anatominae) is rejected and diagnosing radular characters of the family s.l. are identified as symplesiomorphies for Vetigastropoda. Sukashitrochus is part of Scissurellinae and not Anatominae. Neither Fissurelloidea (Fissurellidae, Clypeosectidae) nor Trochoidea (Trochidae, Turbinidae, Stomatellidae) is monophyletic. Previously cited trochoidean synapomoprhies are identified as either being symplesiomorphies or affected by reductive heterochrony (paedomorphosis followed by hypermorphosis). Change in body size between major lineages is likely accomplished by peramorphy from a small ancestor and not by paedomorphy from a large ancestor. The colonization of the hydrothermal vent environment has occurred at least three times independently with some vent lineages not yet included in this study (Temnocinclinae, Sutilizoninae); vent colonization seems stochastic and not restricted to one particular geological time interval.
Parenting toddlers: Evidences of parental needs from South India
Authors: Holla Chaithra , Thomas Bino , Kishore Madhavaram Thomas
Published: July 2023

Background:

Quality of childcare can predict a child’s emotional and behavioural adjustment throughout the life span. Furthermore, this has major implications for child development and mental health in the long-term. Parents often face major challenges while providing childcare especially during the early years of a child.

Aim:

This paper describes specific parental concerns in raising a toddler from a mental health developmental perspective.

Methods:

The study was conducted in urban Bengaluru, India under an exploratory research design using semi-structured interviews. Ten parents participated in the study. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Four major themes emerged. The first theme was related to the formation of parental beliefs about parenting which identified several sources such as parenting practices witnessed during childhood, childhood experiences and influence of culture, mass or social media. The second theme to emerge was on concerns related to toddlers which parents had difficulties in understanding as well as managing, specially navigating through sleep and feed pattern, identifying developmental needs and making a meaning of toddlers’ communication styles and content. The third theme showed parental concerns which consisted of areas such as parental stress, physical exhaustion, lack of time for each other or toddler, lack of information about handling toddlers and absence of validation of parental efforts. The final theme was on their current parenting practices with their toddlers which showcased controlling styles, play time but low on quality, inappropriate responses to toddlers’ emotions or behaviours and several culturally practiced measures which were not validated scientifically.

Conclusion:

The pre-existing belief among parents about parenting and toddlers’ specific behaviours influence parenting practices. The understanding of the parental challenges is beneficial in developing an appropriate parenting programme focussing on strengthening psychological capacities of toddlers.
An Ethical Perspective for Telemedicine in Prison
Authors: Botrugno Carlo
Published: July 2023

Telemedicine is increasingly being considered as a viable solution to advance healthcare organization, widening accessibility and increasing the quality of service delivery. However, implementing telemedicine in prison settings is not unproblematic as it gives rise to a range of ethical issues. In light of this, this article seeks to provide an ethical perspective for prison telemedicine, offered as a point of departure for stimulating a better integration of telemedicine in correctional systems. This entails examining this innovation as part of a wider strategy aimed at fully addressing the medical needs of prison populations.
Killing a Country and Getting Away with It: Neopatrimonialism and Incurable Corruption by Political Elites Linked to International Development Aid
Authors: Harnois Yanik G. , Gagnon Stéphane
Published: July 2023

As some countries are increasingly locked in a state of incurable corruption, while most political elites escape lavishly any prosecution, there is a growing concern that global governance is overlooking the crimes committed by some leaders who are “killing a country and getting away with it.” This phenomenon of state capture coincides increasingly with countries heavily dependent on international development aid. It also coincides within cultures where neopatrimonialism is allowed to flourish as opposed to more modern public administration standards. Inspired by a post-colonial and broader critical perspective, but with a practice-oriented focus, this article reviews the literature related to project management methods and how they can help uncover and prevent corruption. A review of governance regimes leads to a set of models to help better contextualize development aid management and identify how evidence-gathering can be enhanced to ensure that maximum sanctions are taken against corrupt political elite.
Outcome of Absence Epilepsy With Onset at 8-11 Years of Age: Watershed Ages When Syndromes Overlap
Authors: Datta Anita N. , Crawford Jacqueline , Wallbank Laura , Wong Peter K. H.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Absence seizures occur in various epilepsy syndromes, including childhood and juvenile absence epilepsy and juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. When children present with absence seizures at ages when syndromes overlap, initial syndrome designation is not always possible, making early prognostication challenging. For these children, the study objective is to determine clinical and initial electroencephalograph (EEG) findings to predict the development of generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which is a factor that affects outcome. Methods: Children with new-onset absence seizures between 8 and 11 years of age with at least 5 years of follow-up data were studied through the review of medical records and initial EEG tracings. Results: Ninety-eight patients were included in the study. The median age of absence seizure onset was 9 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 8.00, 10.00) and follow-up was 15 years (IQR = 13.00, 18.00). Forty-six percent developed generalized tonic-clonic seizures and 20% developed myoclonic seizures. On multiple regression analysis, a history of myoclonic seizures, anxiety, as well as bifrontal slowing and mild background slowing on initial EEG ( P < .05) were associated with generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Although not statistically significant, a shorter duration of shortest EEG burst on baseline EEG was also associated with generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Conclusion: On initial EEG, bifrontal and background slowing and myoclonic seizures and anxiety are associated with developing generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which is of prognostic significance when early syndrome designation is difficult.
BAFFR expression in circulating T follicular helper (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+) and T peripheral helper (CD4+CXCR5−PD-1+) cells in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Sagrero-Fabela Nefertari , Ortíz-Lazareno Pablo C , Salazar-Camarena Diana C , Cruz Alvaro , Cerpa-Cruz Sergio , Muñoz-Valle José F , Marín-Rosales Miguel , Alvarez-Gómez Jhonatan A , Palafox-Sánchez Claudia A
Published: July 2023

Background

Circulating T follicular helper (cTfh) and T peripheral helper (Tph) subpopulations are shown to be higher in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and have been involved in promoting extrafollicular B cell responses. However, a possible association with the B cell activating factor (BAFF), a cytokine mainly related to B cell responses and disease activity in SLE, has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association of cTfh and Tph subpopulations with the BAFF system expression and clinical activity in SLE patients.

Methods

This study included 43 SLE patients and 12 healthy subjects (HS). The identification of cTfh (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+), Tph (CD4+CXCR5−PD-1+) cells, expression of membrane-bound BAFF (mBAFF), BAFFR, TACI, BCMA, and intracellular IL-21 was performed by flow cytometry. Serum levels of IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF were analyzed using ELISA. The SLEDAI-2K score was used to evaluate disease activity in SLE patients.

Results

Compared with HS, SLE patients showed a significantly increased percentage of cTfh and Tph cells, higher in patients with clearly active disease. SLE patients had markedly higher IL-21-producing cTfh and Tph cells than HS. Both subpopulations were positively correlated with the disease activity in SLE patients. Tph cells were negatively correlated with CD19+CXCR5+ B cells and positively correlated with CD19+CXCR5− B cells. A low expression of mBAFF and their receptors TACI and BCMA was found on cTfh and Tph cells in SLE patients and HS. However, SLE patients with clearly active disease showed decreased expression of BAFFR on cTfh and Tph subpopulations than patients with mildly active/nonactive disease. Serum IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF levels were higher in SLE patients than in HS. Levels of CXCL13 were correlated with disease activity. Non-significant correlations were observed among T cell subpopulations and IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF levels.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the importance of cTfh and Tph cells in SLE pathogenesis. Besides the importance of IL-21, our results suggest that BAFFR could play a role in cTfh and Tph subpopulations in the autoimmunity context.
Is Social Work Research in Crisis?
Authors: Dunleavy Daniel J. , Lacasse Jeffrey R.
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the veracity of scientific findings has come under intense scrutiny in what has been called the “replication crisis.” This crisis is marked by the propagation of scientific claims which were subsequently contested, found to be exaggerated, or deemed false. This article describes the replication crisis and identifies examples of unreproducible results and irreplicable findings from across the biomedical and social sciences. Purported causes and potential remedies to the crisis are examined. It is argued that social work research suffers from the many analytic and methodological vices described here and that the profession is likely in crisis itself. Consequences for the discipline, as both a research and practice-based profession, are explored and paths forward are proposed.
Intercostal Cryoablation During Video-Assisted Lung Resection Can Decrease Postoperative Opioid Use
Authors: Maxwell Conor M. , Weksler Benny , Houda Joseph , Fernando Hiran C.
Published: July 2023

Objective:

Pain requiring opioid use remains an issue even with minimally invasive thoracic surgery. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of intercostal nerve cryoablation (CRYO) for pain control in adult patients undergoing pulmonary resection.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing pulmonary resection by uniportal video-assisted thoracic (uVATS) approach was undertaken. Patients treated with our usual pain regimen (STANDARD) were compared with those who additionally received CRYO. STANDARD includes intercostal bupivacaine, patient-controlled analgesia (24 h), ketorolac (48 to 72 h), and tramadol. Intraoperative CRYO was performed on 5 intercostal levels. The primary aim was to compare pain scores (range, 0 to 10) and morphine equivalent dosages (MED). Secondary outcomes included length of stay, chest tube duration, presence of an air leak, and adverse events. A p value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

There were 49 patients (34 female, 15 male). The median age was 74 (37 to 90) years. Procedures included lobectomy ( n = 32), segmentectomy ( n = 7), and wedge resections ( n = 10). There were 23 (46.9%) CRYO and 26 (53.1%) STANDARD patients. Baseline characteristics were similar. Mean length of stay (2.9 vs 3.5 days), chest tube duration (2.2 vs 1.8 days), and adverse events (9 of 23 vs 7 of 26) were similar. There were no complications attributable to CRYO. Pain scores were not significantly different on postoperative days (POD) 1 to 4. MED was significantly reduced after CRYO on POD 1 (5 vs 47.24), POD 2 (10.93 vs 25.04), POD 3 (8.13 vs 21.7), and POD 4 (7.08 vs 19.17).

Conclusions:

CRYO can be performed safely during pulmonary resection and can decrease in-hospital opioid use. The results from this retrospective study will need to be validated in future prospective studies.
A tale of two rivers – Baaka and Martuwarra, Australia: Shared voices and art towards water justice
Authors: Bates William Brian (Badger) , Chu Long , Claire Hozaus , Colloff Matthew J , Cotton Robert , Davies Ruby , Larsen Libby , Loughrey Glenn , Manero Ana , Marshall Virginia , Martin Sarah , Nguyen Nhat-Mai , Nikolakis William , Poelina Anne , Schulz Daniel , Taylor Katherine Selena , Williams John , Wyrwoll Paul , Grafton R Quentin
Published: July 2023

Two of Australia’s iconic river systems, Baaka in New South Wales (NSW) and Martuwarra in Western Australia (WA), are described in a narrative that connects Indigenous custodianship, bio-physical features and art, and contrasts settler law with First Law to provide multiple ways of seeing the two river systems. Our narrative is a shared response to: (1) upstream water extractions that have imposed large costs on Baaka and its peoples; and (2) threats of water extractions and developments to Martuwarra. By scribing the voices of the two river systems, we have created a space to reimagine an emerging future that connects the past and present through the concept of ‘EveryWhen’, where First Law has primacy, and where art connects Indigenous knowledges to non-Indigenous understanding. Through a dialogue process with Indigenous knowledge holders, artists and water researchers, five action processes, or journeys, are identified to guide water decision making towards water justice.
Median effective dose (ED50) of esketamine combined with propofol for children to inhibit response of gastroscope insertion
Authors: Su Ming , Zhu Yichao , Liu Shupeng , Song Lijuan , Qu Jiangtao , Zhang Yong , Zhang Quanyi
Published: July 2023

Background

Propofol is the most commonly used drug for procedural sedation during gastroscopy. However, independent use of propofol can lead to increased dosage and additional side effects. Esketamine was found to be exceptional in combination with propofol for painless gastroscopy. No studies have calculated the median effective dose (ED50) of esketamine combined with propofol in pediatric painless gastroscopy. Here, we designed a research to study the ED50 of esketamine combined with propofol using the Dixon and Massey up-and-down sequential method for inhibiting the response of gastroscope insertion.

Methods

Children who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this study. Propofol and esketamine were used as anesthetics for painless gastroscopy in children. To explore the ED50, the initial propofol dose was set at 3 mg/kg in all children. The first child was given an esketamine dose of 0.1 mg/kg, followed by 30 s of slow bolus injection propofol. If anesthesia induction failed (coughing or body movement of children during gastroscope insertion), the esketamine dose was elevated in the next child, with a interval difference of 0.05 mg/kg. Otherwise, if the anesthesia induction was successful, the next dosage was reduced by 0.05 mg/kg. The study was stopped if nine crossover inflection points were reached. The ED50 of esketamine was calculated using probit regression, and the blood pressure, pulse oxygen saturation, heart rate, recovery time, and side effects were recorded in all children.

Results

A total of 26 children were included in this study. The ED50 of esketamine combined with 3 mg/kg propofol was 0.143 mg/kg (95% CI 0.047–0.398 mg/kg). The total consumption of propofol was 16.04 ± 5.37 mg. The recovery time was 16.38 ± 8.70 min. Adverse effects recorded were delayed awakening in two cases and increased oral secretions of another child during the examination inducing cough and hypoxemia (86% was the lowest).

Discussion

The ED50 of esketamine was 0.143 mg/kg when combined with 3 mg/kg propofol for successful sedation in pediatric gastroscope insertion. This sub-anaesthetic dose of esketamine was safe and efficacious with few complications in pediatric painless gastroscopy.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (www.chictr.org.cn; registration number: ChiCTR2100052830 on 06/11/2021).
End-of-life treatment preference discussions between older people and their physician before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: cross sectional and longitudinal analyses from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam
Authors: Kox Roosmarijne M. K. , Pasman H. Roeline W. , van der Plas Annicka G. M. , Huisman Martijn , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Onwuteaka-Philipsen Bregje D.
Published: July 2023

Background

COVID-19 could lead to hospitalisation and ICU admission, especially in older adults. Therefore, during the pandemic, it became more important to discuss wishes and preferences, such as older peoples’ desire for intensive treatment in a hospital in acute situations, or not. This study explores what percentage of Dutch older people aged 75 and over discussed Advance Care Planning (ACP) topics with a physician during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic and whether this was different in these people before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data of two ancillary data collections of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam were used: the LASA 75 PLUS study and the LASA COVID-19 study. The latter provided cross sectional data (during COVID-19; n = 428) and longitudinal data came from participants in both studies (before and during COVID-19; n = 219).

Results

Most older adults had thought about ACP topics during COVID-19 (76,4%), and a minority had also discussed ACP topics with a physician (20.3%). Thinking about ACP topics increased during COVID-19 compared to before COVID-19 in a sample with measurements on both timeframes (82,5% vs 68,0%). Not thinking about ACP topics decreased in the first months of the COVID-pandemic compared to before COVID-19 for all ACP topics together (68.0% vs 82.2%) and each topic separately (hospital 42.0% vs 63.9%; nursing home 36.5% vs 53.3%; treatment options 47.0% vs 62.1%; resuscitation 53.0% vs 70.7%).

Conclusions

Older people do think about ACP topics, which is an important first step in ACP, and this has increased during COVID-19. However, discussing ACP topics with a physician is still not that common. General practitioners could therefore take the initiative in broaching the subject of ACP. This can for instance be done by organizing information meetings.