bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular ultrasound renal denervation to lower blood pressure in young hypertensive women planning pregnancy: study protocol for a multicentre randomised, blinded and sham controlled proof of concept study
Authors: Gosse Philippe , Sentilhes Loïc , Boulestreau Romain , Doublet Julien , Gaudissard Julie , Azizi Michel , Cremer Antoine
Published: September 2023

Introduction

A major issue confronting clinicians treating hypertension in pregnancy is the limited number of pharmacological options. Endovascular catheter-based renal denervation (RDN) is a new method to lower blood pressure (BP) in patients with hypertension by reducing the activity of the renal sympathetic nervous system. Drugs that affect this system are safe in pregnant women. So there is reasonable evidence that RDN performed before pregnancy should not have deleterious effects for the fetus. Because the efficacy of RDN may be greater in younger patients and in women, we may expect a larger proportion of BP normalisation in young hypertensive women, but this remains to be proven. Our primary objective is to quantify the proportion of BP normalisation with RDN in this population.

Methods and analysis

WHY-RDN is a multicentre randomised sham-controlled trial conducted in six French hypertension centres that will include 80 women with essential hypertension treated or untreated, who are planning a pregnancy in the next 2 years and will be randomly assigned to RDN or classic renal arteriography and sham RDN in a ratio of 1:1. The primary outcome is the normalisation of 24-hour BP (<130/80 mm Hg) at 2-month post procedure off treatment. Sample size is calculated with the following assumptions: 5% one-sided significance level (α), 80% power (1-β), expected responder rates of 24% and 3% in the treatment and control group, respectively. Secondary outcomes include the absence of adverse outcomes for a future pregnancy, the variations of BP in ambulatory and home BP measurements and the evaluation of treatment prescribed.

Ethics and dissemination

WHY-RDN has been approved by the French Ethics Committee (Tours, Region Centre, Ouest 1- number 2021T1-28 HPS). This project is being carried out in accordance with national and international guidelines. The findings of this study will be disseminated by publication.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT05563337.
EMBIO trial study protocol: left gastric artery embolisation for weight loss in patients living with obesity with a BMI 35–50 kg/m2
Authors: Patel Prashant , Thomas Robert , Hamady Mohamad , Hague Julian , Raja Jowad , Tan Tricia , Bloom Stephen , Richards Toby , Weiss Clifford R , Prechtl Christina Gabriele , Smith Claire , Sasikaran Thiagarajah , Hesketh Richard , Bourmpaki Elli , Johnson Nicholas Andrew , Fiorentino Francesca , Ahmed Ahmed R
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Left gastric artery embolisation (LGAE) is a well-established treatment for major upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding when control is not established via upper GI endoscopy and recently has shown promising results for weight loss in small single arm studies. LGAE could be a treatment option in between our current tier-3 and tier-4 services for obesity. EMBIO is a National Institute for Health Research funded trial, a multicentre double-blinded randomised controlled trial between Imperial College National Health Service Trust and University College London Hospital, comparing LGAE versus Placebo procedure. The key aims of the trial is to evaluate LGAE efficacy on weight loss, its mechanism of action, safety profile and obesity-related comorbidities.

Methods and analysis

76 participants will be recruited from the existing tier-3 database after providing informed consent. Key inclusion criteria include adults aged 18–70 with a body mass index 35–50 kg/m2and appropriate anatomy of the left gastric artery and coeliac plexus on CT Angiogram. Key exclusion criteria included previous major abdominal and bariatric surgery, weight >150 kg, type 2 diabetes on any medications other than metformin and the use of weight modifying medications. Participants will undergo mechanistic visits 1 week prior to the intervention and 3, 6 and 12 months postintervention. Informed consent will be received from each participant and they will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to left gastric artery embolisation and placebo treatment. Blinding strategies include the use of moderate doses of sedation, visual and auditory isolation. All participants will enter a tier-3 weight management programme postintervention. The primary analysis will estimate the difference between the groups in the mean per cent weight loss at 12 months.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial shall be conducted in full conformity with the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and all subsequent revisions. Local research ethics approval was granted by London-Central Research Ethics Committee, (Reference 19/LO/0509) on 11 October 2019. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued the Letter of No Objection on 8 April 2022 (Reference CI/2022/0008/GB). The trial’s development and progress are monitored by an independent trial steering committee and data monitoring and ethics committee. The researchers plan to disseminate results at conferences, in peer- reviewed journals as well as lay media and to patient organisations.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN16158402.
Systematic review and meta-synthesis protocol for examining policies mitigating the determinants of African nurses’ and midwives’ migration
Authors: Osei Stephanopoulos Kofi Junior , Owusu Michael Barfi , Frimpong Sandra , Dela Bosro Dorinda , Asamoah Christopher Fosu , Owusu Daniel , Ntriwaa Amoako-Mensah Deborah , Barimah Sammy Kwantwi , Agbavor Jerry Kofi Esinu , Agbesi Bertha Delanyo Awo
Published: September 2023

Background

There has been a notable rise in the number of African nurses and midwives migrating to high-income countries despite varying policies and restrictions to promote retention. The need to comprehensively evaluate existing policies addressing the exodus is crucial to future policy formulation and steps in addressing drivers of nurses and midwives brain drain in Africa.

Aim

To explore the existence of migration policies that address the drivers of nurse and midwives’ migration outside Africa and determine the characteristics and implementation of these policies.

Methods

The review would be guided by the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of text and non-research evidence. Databases including CINAHL, PubMed, Academic Search Complete via Ebscohost and ISI Web of Science will be searched using a PICOS selection criteria framework. Grey literature would be gathered from Google Scholar, government and organisational websites. Two independent reviewers would be involved in searching, study selection, data extraction and data analysis. A third reviewer would provide an arbitrary judgement during conflicts when disagreements persist after discussion. A meta-synthesis would be used to identify and report emerging themes in the literature.

Ethics and dissemination

The study does not require ethical approval. The findings would be published in peer-review journals and presented at research conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023395013.
Predictive accuracy of risk prediction models for recurrence, metastasis and survival for early-stage cutaneous melanoma: a systematic review
Authors: Kunonga Tafadzwa Patience , Kenny R P W , Astin Margaret , Bryant Andrew , Kontogiannis Vasileios , Coughlan Diarmuid , Richmond Catherine , Eastaugh Claire H , Beyer Fiona R , Pearson Fiona , Craig Dawn , Lovat Penny , Vale Luke , Ellis Robert
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To identify prognostic models for melanoma survival, recurrence and metastasis among American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I and II patients postsurgery; and evaluate model performance, including overall survival (OS) prediction.

Design

Systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Data sources

Searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Science Citation Index and grey literature sources including cancer and guideline websites from 2000 to September 2021.

Eligibility criteria

Included studies on risk prediction models for stage I and II melanoma in adults ≥18 years. Outcomes included OS, recurrence, metastases and model performance. No language or country of publication restrictions were applied.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two pairs of reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the CHecklist for critical Appraisal and data extraction for systematic Reviews of prediction Modelling Studies checklist and the Prediction study Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Heterogeneous predictors prevented statistical synthesis.

Results

From 28 967 records, 15 studies reporting 20 models were included; 8 (stage I), 2 (stage II), 7 (stages I–II) and 7 (stages not reported), but were clearly applicable to early stages. Clinicopathological predictors per model ranged from 3–10. The most common were: ulceration, Breslow thickness/depth, sociodemographic status and site. Where reported, discriminatory values were ≥0.7. Calibration measures showed good matches between predicted and observed rates. None of the studies assessed clinical usefulness of the models. Risk of bias was high in eight models, unclear in nine and low in three. Seven models were internally and externally cross-validated, six models were externally validated and eight models were internally validated.

Conclusions

All models are effective in their predictive performance, however the low quality of the evidence raises concern as to whether current follow-up recommendations following surgical treatment is adequate. Future models should incorporate biomarkers for improved accuracy.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018086784.
Peri-Operative Wearables in Elder Recover after Surgery (POWERS) study: a protocol for a multicentre, prospective cohort study to evaluate perioperative activity with postoperative disability in older adults after non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Ladha Karim S , Lu Justin , McIsaac Daniel I , van Vlymen Janet M , Lebovic Gerald , Ehtesham Sahar , Pazmino-Canizares Janneth , Clarke Hance , Parotto Matteo , Lorello Gianni R , Wijeysundera Duminda Nalaka
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The ageing population has led to an increasing proportion of surgical patients with greater frailty and comorbidity. Complications and mortality within 30 days of a surgical procedure are often used to evaluate success in the perioperative period however these measures can potentially underestimate a substantial level of morbidity associated with surgery. Personal wearable technologies are now readily available and can offer detailed information on activity intensity, sedentary behaviour and sleeping patterns. These devices may provide important information perioperatively by acting as a non-invasive, and cost-efficient means to risk stratify patients.

Methods and analysis

The Peri-Operative Wearables in Elder Recover After Surgery (POWERS) study is a multicentre observational study of 200 older adults (≥65 years) having major elective non-cardiac surgery. The objectives are to characterise the association between preoperative and postoperative activity monitor measurements with postoperative disability and recovery, as well as characterise trajectories of activity and sleep in the perioperative period. Activity will be monitored with the ActiGraph GT3X device and measured for 7-day increments, preoperatively, and at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively. Disability will be assessed using the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 assessed at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

The POWERS study received research ethics board approval at all participating sites on 1 August 2019 (REB # 19-121 (CTO 1849)). Renewal was granted on 19 May 2022.
Providing the basis for a patient-centred and effective screening for cancer-related fatigue (MERLIN study): design of a longitudinal observational study
Authors: Blickle Patricia , Haussmann Alexander , Holzner Bernhard , Berger Anne Katrin , Steindorf Karen , Schmidt Martina E
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a frequent and burdensome sequela of cancer and cancer therapies. It can persist from months to years and has a substantial impact on patients’ quality of life and functioning. CRF is often still not adequately diagnosed and insufficiently treated. According to guideline recommendations, patients should be routinely screened for CRF from cancer diagnosis onwards. We will investigate how an effective screening should be designed regarding timing, frequency, screening type and cut-off points.

Methods and analysis

MERLIN is a longitudinal observational study that will include 300 patients with cancer at the beginning of cancer therapy. The main study centre is the National Center for Tumour Diseases Heidelberg, Germany. Patients answer five items to shortly screen for CRF at high frequency during their therapy and at lower frequency during the post-treatment phase for 18 months. Further, CRF is assessed at wider intervals based on the Cella criteria, the Brief Fatigue Inventory impact scale, the quality of life fatigue questionnaire (QLQ-FA12) and the fatigue and cognitive items of the quality of life core questionnaire (QLQ-C30), both of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer. Important psychological, socio-demographical or medical factors, which may exacerbate CRF are assessed. All assessments are performed online. Receiver operating curves, areas under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and likelihood ratios will be calculated to determine optimal short screening modalities.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the ethics committee of the Medical Faculty of the Heidelberg University, Germany (approval number: S-336/2022). Written informed consent is obtained from all participants. The study is conducted in full conformance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, presented at conferences and communicated to clinical stakeholders to foster the implementation of an effective CRF management.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov; registration number:NCT05448573.
How does participatory research work: protocol for a realist synthesis
Authors: Belaid Loubna , Sarmiento Ivàn , Dion Anna , Pimentel Juan Pablo , Rojas-Cárdenas Andrés , Cockcroft Anne , Andersson Neil
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Participatory research science deals with partnerships underlying research, governance and ownership of research products. It is concerned with relationships behind research objectives and methods. Participatory research has gained significant traction in design of health interventions, contextualising these to local settings and stakeholder groups. Despite a massive increase in participatory research exercises, the field remains undertheorised, and the mechanisms for improving health outcomes remain unclear. This realist review seeks to understand how and under what circumstances participatory research impacts health and social outcomes.

Methods and analysis

The review will follow four steps: (1) searching for and selecting evidence, (2) assessing the quality of evidence, (3) extracting and categorising data and (4) synthesising the data in the form of context–mechanism–outcomes configurations. The review will follow the Realist And Meta Narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) II guidelines for reporting realist evaluations. We categorise and synthesise data in four steps: (1) identifying outcomes, (2) identifying contextual components of outcomes, (3) theoretical redescription (abduction) and (4) identifying mechanisms. A retroductive analysis will identify mechanisms by moving between empirical data and theories, using inductive and deductive reasoning to explain the outcomes–context matches. The output will generate middle-range theories on how participatory research works, for whom and under what circumstances.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is a review of a published literature. It does not involve human participants. We will convene a workshop to share and discuss the preliminary results with partners and key stakeholders involved in participatory health research. We will publish the review results in peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences.
Experiences of work for people living with a grade 2/3 oligodendroglioma: a qualitative analysis within the Ways Ahead study
Authors: Walker Hayley , Rimmer Ben , Dutton Lizzie , Finch Tracy , Gallagher Pamela , Lewis Joanne , Burns Richéal , Araújo-Soares Vera , Williams Sophie , Sharp Linda
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the work experiences of people living with an oligodendroglioma.

Design

This was a descriptive qualitative study. One-time semi-structured interviews exploring supportive care needs were conducted; work was discussed at various points throughout each interview. An inductive thematic analysis was undertaken.

Setting

Participants were recruited across the UK through four National Health Service hospitals and the Brain Tumour Charity research involvement networks.

Participants

19 people with grade 2 or 3 oligodendroglioma (mean age 52 years; male n=11). At diagnosis, 16 participants were working, 2 studying and 1 retired. At the interview (mean time since diagnosis 9.6 years; range 1–18 years), seven participants were working, eight retired (four on medical grounds) and four unable to work due to illness.

Results

Seven themes were constructed: (1) physical and cognitive limitations; (2) work ability and productivity; (3) work accommodations; (4) changing roles; (5) attitudes of clients and coworkers; (6) feelings and ambitions; and (7) financial implications. Fatigue, seizures and cognitive deficits influenced work ability. A stressful work environment could exacerbate symptoms. Changes in job roles and work environment were often required. Employer and coworker support were integral to positive experiences. Work changes could result in financial stress and strain.

Conclusions

This study has highlighted, for the first time, influences on work experiences in this understudied population. These findings have implications for clinicians and employers, when considering the importance of work in rehabilitation for people with oligodendrogliomas, and the individually assessed adjustments required to accommodate them, should employment be desired.
Implementing a package of essential non-communicable diseases interventions in low- and middle-income countries: a realist review protocol
Authors: Vaidya Anju , Simkhada Padam , Lee Andrew , Jones Susan , Mukumbang Ferdinand C
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing rapidly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), accounting for 85% of premature deaths in the region. LMICs have been facing an increasing trend of a double burden of disease (infectious diseases and NCDs) that has led to multiple challenges in prioritising strategies for NCDs control amidst limited resources. Evidence indicates that measures such as the WHO’s package of essential non-communicable (PEN) diseases interventions can prevent and control NCDs. However, because of the complexity of such health interventions, there is limited evidence that explains how the intervention works, for whom and in what context. We aim to unpack the causal mechanisms explaining how, why, for whom and in what context PEN prevents and controls NCDs.

Methods and analysis

We propose a realist review to understand how, why, for whom and under what circumstances PEN works or does not work. The review process includes five steps applied iteratively throughout the study: clarification of review scope, searching for evidence, appraising and extracting data, synthesising evidence and drawing conclusions, and disseminating the findings. Programme theories will be developed using the realist logic for theory formulation—Retroductive Theorising. The context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) heuristic tool will be used to develop the programme theories. Portions of the reviewed documents describing constructs of context, mechanism and outcomes will be coded inductively and extracted. These extracted constructs will then be linked abductively to formulate CMO configurations.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval is not required for this review. Study findings will be disseminated through publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and formal and informal reports.
Observational cohort study to validate SEARCH, a novel hierarchical algorithm to define long-term outcomes after pulmonary embolism
Authors: Morris Timothy A , Fernandes Timothy M , Chung Jina , Vintch Janine R E , McGuire W Cameron , Thapamagar Suman , Alotaibi Mona , Aries Savannah , Dakaeva Khadizhat
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic dyspnoea and exercise impairment are common after acute pulmonary embolism (PE) but are not defined and quantified sufficiently to serve as outcomes in clinical trials. The planned project will clinically validate a novel method to determine discrete, clinically meaningful diagnoses after acute PE. The method uses an algorithm entitled SEARCH, forsymptom screen,exercise testing,arterial perfusion,resting echocardiography,confirmatory imaging andhaemodynamic measurements. SEARCH is a stepwise algorithm that sorts patients by a hierarchical series of dichotomous tests into discreet categories of long-term outcomes after PE: asymptomatic, post-PE deconditioning, symptoms from other causes, chronic thromboembolism with ventilatory inefficiency, chronic thromboembolism with small stroke volume augmentation, chronic thromboembolic disease and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Methods

The project will test the inter-rater reliability of the SEARCH algorithm by determining whether it will yield concordant post-PE diagnoses when six independent reviewers review the same diagnostic data on 150 patients evaluated at two time points after PE. The project will also determine whether the post-PE diagnoses are stable, according to the SEARCH algorithm, between the first evaluation and the subsequent one 6 months later.

Implications

Validation of the SEARCH algorithm would offer clinicians a straightforward method to diagnose post-PE conditions that are rarely distinguished clinically. Their categorisation and definition will allow post-PE conditions to be used as endpoints in clinical trials of acute PE treatment.

Trial registration number

NCT05568927.
Measuring the prevalence of autistic traits in a cohort of adults living with HIV or taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and mapping safer-sex barriers and facilitators: a study protocol
Authors: Huyst Veerle , Dewinter Jeroen , Noens Ilse , Platteau Tom , Tsoumanis Achilleas
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Autistic individuals identify with a wider range of sexual orientations than non-autistic individuals, including higher rates of bisexual orientation in autistic men. Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men are at greater risk for HIV. Prevalence data of autistic traits in people living with HIV or using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV are lacking so far. Such data, combined with insights in barriers and facilitators for safer sex in autistic people living with HIV or using PrEP, are a first step to improve health support for autistic people in HIV clinics. This support is crucial since autistic individuals have worse physical and mental health outcomes. The objective of this research is to determine the prevalence of autistic traits within the group of people living with HIV or using PrEP in Belgium and to describe specific facilitators and barriers for sexual safer behaviour in people living with HIV and PrEP users with autistic traits.

Methods and analysis

The research is a cross-sectional, observational and multicentre study with recruitment of individual participants. The research consists of two phases. In phase 1, adults coming for HIV/AIDS care or HIV PrEP in participating Belgian HIV Reference Centres will be invited to fill in the validated Autism Spectrum Quotient questionnaire. In phase 2, participants with a score above the predefined cut-off for autistic traits (>26), who agreed to be informed about this score, will be invited to complete an additional survey, inquiring facilitators and barriers for sexual safer behaviour.

Ethics and dissemination of results

Institutional Review Board Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, 25 July 2022, REF 1601/22 and University Hospital of Antwerp, 12 September 2022, Project ID 3679: BUN B3002022000111. Study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented to Belgian HIV Reference Centres and at conferences.
Effectiveness of a supervisor training on quality of feedback to internal medicine residents: a controlled longitudinal multicentre study
Authors: Renting Nienke , Jaarsma Debbie , Borleffs Jan CC , Slaets Joris P J , Cohen-Schotanus Janke , Gans Rob O B
Published: September 2023

Objectives

High-quality feedback on different dimensions of competence is important for resident learning. Supervisors may need additional training and information to fulfil this demanding task. This study aimed to evaluate whether a short and simple training improves the quality of feedback residents receive from their clinical supervisors in daily practice.

Design

Longitudinal quasi-experimental controlled study with a pretest/post-test design. We collected multiple premeasurements and postmeasurements for each supervisor over 2 years. A repeated measurements ANOVA was performed on the data.

Setting

Internal medicine departments of seven Dutch teaching hospitals.

Participants

Internal medicine supervisors (n=181) and residents (n=192).

Intervention

Half of the supervisors attended a short 2.5-hour training session during which they could practise giving feedback in a simulated setting using video fragments. Highly experienced internal medicine educators guided the group discussions about the feedback. The other half of the supervisors formed the control group and received no feedback training.

Outcome measures

Residents rated the quality of supervisors’ oral feedback with a previously validated questionnaire. Furthermore, the completeness of the supervisors’ written feedback on evaluation forms was analysed.

Results

The data showed a significant increase in the quality of feedback after the training F (1, 87)=6.76, p=0.04. This effect remained significant up to 6 months after the training session.

Conclusions

A short training session in which supervisors practise giving feedback in a simulated setting increases the quality of their feedback. This is a promising outcome since it is a feasible approach to faculty development.
Illuminating the daily life experiences of adolescents with and without ADHD: protocol for an ecological momentary assessment study
Authors: Murray Aja , Speyer Lydia , Thye Melissa , Stewart Tracy , Obsuth Ingrid , Kane Jennifer , Whyte Katie , Devaney John , Rohde Luis Augusto , Ushakova Anastasia , Rhodes Sinead
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at elevated risk of a range of difficulties, among which emotion regulation, peer and co-occurring mental health problems are prominent challenges. To better support adolescents with ADHD, ecologically valid interventions that can be embedded in daily life to target the most proximal antecedents of these challenges are needed. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) designs are ideally suited to meeting this need.

Methods and analyses

In the mental health in the moment ADHD study, we will use an EMA design to capture the daily life experiences of approximately 120 adolescents aged 11–14 years with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD and the same number of age-matched and gender-matched peers without a diagnosis of ADHD. We will combine this with comprehensive information gathered from online surveys. Analysing the data using techniques such as dynamic structural equation modelling, we will examine, among other research questions, the role of emotion regulation and peer problems in mediating the links between characteristics of ADHD and commonly co-occurring outcomes such as anxiety, depression and conduct problems. The results can help inform interventions to support improved peer functioning and emotion regulation for adolescents with ADHD.

Ethics and dissemination

This study received a favourable ethical opinion through the National Health Service ethical review board and the University of Edinburgh PPLS Research Ethics panel. The results will be disseminated through journal publications, conferences and seminar presentations and to relevant stakeholders, such as those with ADHD, their families and clinicians.
Health centres and social determinants of health: an analysis of enabling services provision and clinical quality
Authors: Topmiller Michael , McCann Jessica , Hoang Hank , Rankin Jennifer , Grandmont Jene , Pelzer Molly , Sripipatana Alek
Published: September 2023

Objective

It is well known that social determinants of health (SDOH), including poverty, education, transportation and housing, are important predictors of health outcomes. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centres serve a patient population with high vulnerability to barriers posed by SDOH and are required to provide services that enable health centre service utilisation and assist patients in navigating barriers to care. This study explores whether health centres with higher percentages of patients using these enabling services experience better clinical performance and outcomes.

Design and setting

The analysis uses organisational characteristics, patient demographics and clinical quality measures from HRSA’s 2018 Uniform Data System. Health centres (n=875) were sorted into quartiles with quartile 1 (Q1) representing the lowest utilisation of enabling services and quartile 4 (Q4) representing the highest. The researchers calculated a service area social deprivation score weighted by the number of patients for each health centre and used ordinary least squares to create adjusted values for each of the clinical quality process and outcome measures. Analysis of variance was used to test differences across enabling services quartiles.

Results

After adjusting for patient characteristics, health centre size and social deprivation, authors found statistically significant differences for all clinical quality process measures across enabling services quartiles, with Q4 health centres performing significantly better than Q1 health centres for several clinical process measures. However, these Q4 health centres performed poorer in outcome measures, including blood pressure and haemoglobin A1c control.

Conclusion

These findings emphasise the importance of how enabling services (eg, translation services, transportation) can address unmet social needs, improve utilisation of health services and reaffirm the challenges inherent in overcoming SDOH to improve health outcomes.
Designing high piezoelectric properties at the BaTiO3–PbZrO3–PbTiO3 phase boundary by Landau–Devonshire theory
Authors: Song Yu , Shi Xiaoming , Li Dan , Wang Jing , Huang Houbing
Published: September 2023

Ferroelectric materials possessing exceptional piezoelectric attributes have garnered widespread utilization in various applications. Solid solution systems improve piezoelectric properties through multiphase mixing, but the methodologies for effective design remain wanting. Based on the Landau–Devonshire theory, we propose a theoretical design method. Binary materials with morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) compositions are added with new elements to increase the free energy of the original stabilized phase and lower the energy barrier (EB). Flatter EBsand higher piezoelectric coefficients are found at the phase boundaries of the ternary system. By calculating the phase diagram, piezoelectric coefficient, dielectric constant, polarization, and EBs, we reveal the origin of the highest piezoelectric coefficient at the phase boundaries. This study underscores the importance of the EBs for polarization rotation in characterizing piezoelectric properties and proposes a theoretical design method for exploring materials with high piezoelectric coefficients.
What Your Next Check-in Might Look Like: Next Check-in Behavior Prediction
Authors: Sun Heli , Cao Chen , Chu Xuguang , Hu Tingting , Lu Junzhi , He Liang , Wang Zhi , He Hui , Xiong Hui
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the next-POI recommendation has become a trending research topic in the field of trajectory data mining. For protection of user privacy, users’ complete GPS trajectories are difficult to obtain. The check-in information posted by users on social networks has become an important data source for Spatio-temporal Trajectory research. However, state-of-the-art methods neglect the social meaning and the information dissemination function of check-in behavior. The social meaning is an important reason why users are willing to post check-in on social networks, and the information dissemination function means, users can affect each other’s behavior by check-ins. The above characteristics of the check-in behavior make it different from the visiting behavior. We consider a new problem of predicting the next check-in behavior including the check-in time, the POI (point-of-interest) where the check-in is located, functional semantics of the POI, and so on. To solve the proposed problem, we build a multi-task learning model called DPMTM, and a pre-training module is designed to extract dynamic social semantics of check-in behaviors. Our results show that the DPMTM model works well in the check-in behavior problem.
What Have We Learned by Resurrecting the 1918 Influenza Virus?
Authors: Gilbertson Brad , Subbarao Kanta
Published: September 2023

The 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic was one of the deadliest infectious disease events in recorded history, resulting in approximately 50–100 million deaths worldwide. The origins of the 1918 virus and the molecular basis for its exceptional virulence remained a mystery for much of the 20th century because the pandemic predated virologic techniques to isolate, passage, and store influenza viruses. In the late 1990s, overlapping fragments of influenza viral RNA preserved in the tissues of several 1918 victims were amplified and sequenced. The use of influenza reverse genetics then permitted scientists to reconstruct the 1918 virus entirely from cloned complementary DNA, leading to new insights into the origin of the virus and its pathogenicity. Here, we discuss some of the advances made by resurrection of the 1918 virus, including the rise of innovative molecular research, which is a topic in the dual use debate.
(Invited) Sequential 3D Integration of Ge Transistors on Si CMOS
Authors: Ostling Mikael , Hellstrom Per-Erik
Published: September 2023

To keep the scaling progress going, we must go three dimensional (3D). This paper outlines some technology challenges and solutions to integrate Ge p-type MOSFETs sequentially on Si CMOS. Such a solution addresses the grand challenge to enable increased device density. However, the device itself does not have to scale but at the same time innovative solutions are suggested for low supply voltage operation enabling energy efficient integrated circuits (ICs) that will not be dominated by energy consumption in interconnects. By stacking the transistors on top of each other, and connecting them with inter-tier via, the density of transistors per unit area increases. This approach demands that transistors are fabricated at a lower temperature than today’s Si CMOS technology. Here, we have focused on Ge based transistors, which have an inherently lower process temperature compared to Si transistors. Several technological and design breakthroughs towards realizing Ge based sequential 3D circuits are discussed.
Evaluation of Anisotropic Biaxial Stress in Extremely-Thin Body (100) Silicon-Germanium-on-Insulator p-Type Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect-Transistor by Oil-Immersion Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Maeda Yuiha , Yokogawa Ryo , Sugawa Sho , Chen Chia-Tsong , Toprasertpong Kasidit , Takenaka Mitsuru , Takagi Shinichi , Ogura Atsushi
Published: September 2023

We evaluated the anisotropic biaxial strain in the channel region of extremely-thin body silicon-germanium-on-insulator p-MOSFETs by oil-immersion Raman spectroscopy. Oil-immersion Raman spectroscopy can measure the transverse optical (TO) phonon mode which cannot be detected by conventional Raman spectroscopy under the backscattering configuration for (001) substrate. Therefore, we can calculate the anisotropic biaxial stress in the SiGe channel region and investigate the channel width dependence of stress. From the Raman spectra obtained in the polarization configurations of longitudinal optical (LO)-active and TO-active, we confirmed that compressive stress is induced in the SiGe channel region. In addition, we observed that the strain state of the SiGe channel region becomes quasi-uniaxial strain by narrowing the channel width.
(Invited) Physical Understanding of HfZrO2/Si FeFET Memory and Its AI Applications
Authors: Takagi Shinichi , Toprasertpong Kasidit , Cai Zuocheng , Nako Eishin , Nakane Ryosho , Takenaka Mitsuru
Published: September 2023

Si-friendly HfO2-based FeFETs have been well recognized as a technology booster for future integrated memory applications, which are expected to enhance the energy efficiency of AI computation. In this paper, we present our recent studies on the understanding of the coupling between polarization, inversion-layer charges, and carrier traps in HfZrO2 (HZO)/Si FeFET memory. Discrimination of polarization, inversion carriers, and trapped carriers is realized by combining P-V, quasi-split C-V, and Hall measurements of FeFETs. Polarization and electron/hole-trap interactions significantly affect the performance and characteristics of HZO/Si FeFETs. A large number of electron traps can enhance polarization and the memory window of n-FeFETs, while there are almost no hole traps, leading to the smaller memory window of p-FeFETs. We have also proposed a new scheme of physical reservoir computing with parallel data processing for speech recognition by using HZO/Si FeFETs. A high classification accuracy of 95.9 % has been experimentally demonstrated in the task to classify the audio waveforms of ‘0’ to ‘9’ spoken digits.
(Invited) Silicon Quantum Dot Single-Electron Pumps for the Closure of the Quantum Metrology Triangle
Authors: Fujiwara Akira , Yamahata Gento , Johnson Nathan , Nakamura Shuji , Kaneko Nobuhisa
Published: September 2023

We have developed silicon quantum dot single-electron pumps for the application to quantum electrical standards. High-speed silicon pumps operated at GHz frequencies, generating a large current at a sub-nanoampere level, are promising for the realization of a precise closure of the quantum metrology triangle; it is a　consistency check experiment with the quantum Hall resistance standard and Josephson voltage standard. We have found that, to improve the pump accuracy which is governed by the dynamical charge quantization process in a quantum dot, the optimal design and operation of pumps regarding the gate length and cross coupling to the quantum dot is important. The Japanese project, which aims at a precise closure of the quantum metrology triangle, is described with its recent progress.
(Invited) Formation and Characterization of Fe-Silicide Nanodots for Optoelectronic Application
Authors: Miyazaki Seiichi , Makihara Katsunori
Published: September 2023

We have demonstrated the formation of high areal-density β-FeSi2nanodots (NDs) on SiO2 by remote H2-plasma induced self-assembly of Fe-NDs and subsequent SiH4-exposure at 400°C. Under either 976- or 514.5-nm light excitation of NDs after the SiH4-exposure, stable photoluminescence (PL) signals, being characteristic of the semiconducting phase as β-FeSi2, were observed even at room temperature in the energy region over the indirect bandgap of bulk β-FeSi2 (~0.7 eV). The temperature dependence of PL was confirmed to be weak significantly in comparison to that of bulk bandgap, implying light emission from tightly confined NDs. And also, with a decrease in the average dot size by controlling the initial Fe-film thickness, a clear blue shift in PL was observed. The results are associated with quantum size effect in radiative recombination of photoexcited electron-hole pairs.
(Invited) Detection of Wavelength Information by Filter-Free Wavelength Sensor and Its Applications
Authors: Choi Yong-Joon , Sakae Tsugumi , Nakano Kakeru , Ryoma Mibu , Matsubara Ryuya , Ide Tomoya , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Noda Toshihiko , Ishii Hiromu , Sawada Kazuaki
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces the wavelength and light intensity detection method using the filter-free wavelength sensor without optical components. Using a modified CMOS process, we developed a filter-free wavelength sensor with a photogate structure. The sensor can detect light intensity and wavelength without optical filters based on the dependence of the light absorption depth in silicon. Using a developed sensor, we demonstrated a wavelength, spectral shift, and light absorption detection method to apply various fields. In the future, we will continue research to realize an optical sensor system that is more compact, sensitive, and selective.
(Invited) Applications of Electrochemistry Toward Blue/Green and SWIR-Wavelength VCSELs
Authors: Li Bingjun , Mi Chenziyi , Elafandy Rami , Kang Jin-ho , Han Jung
Published: September 2023

The lack of lattice-matched, epitaxial mirrors compatible with GaN and InP substrates greatly hinders the development and mass-production of blue/green and short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) VCSEL, respectively. Here, we propose the use of electrochemistry to engineer the refractive index of the material as a solution. Homoepitaxial distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) formed on GaN and InP substrates has been demonstrated. Meanwhile, electrically injected III-nitride VCSEL using nanoporous DBR was realized under room temperature.
(Invited) Benchmarking of Beyond the State-of-the-Art Vertical GaN Devices
Authors: Gisslander Ulf , Bakowski Mietek
Published: September 2023

In this paper theoretical benchmarking of semi-vertical and vertical gallium nitride (GaN) MOSFETs with rated voltage of 1.2 kV to 3.3 kV is performed against silicon carbide (SiC) devices. Limitations of the semi-vertical and vertical state-of-the-art GaN structures have been investigated by simulations. Specific design features and technology requirements for realization of high voltage vertical GaN MOSFETs are discussed and implemented in simulated structures. The main modifications to the structures are reduced cell pitch and introduction of electric field shielding implantation and thick oxide at the gate trench bottom and p-type implanted junction termination. The main findings are: (a) specific on-resistance of vertical GaN devices is 75% and 40% of that for 1.2 kV and 3.3 kV SiC MOSFETs, respectively, (b) semi-vertical GaN show no advantage over SiC MOSFETs for medium and high voltage devices over 1 kV, (c) vertical GaN has potential advantage for high and ultra-high voltage devices.
(Invited) Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Based Devices for Digital and Industrial Applications
Authors: Wang Qin , Kumar Ashutosh , Berg Martin , Öberg Olof , Bakowski Mietek , Lim Jang-Kwon , Murthy Hithiksha Krishna , Kostov Konstantin , Akbari Saeed , Salter Michael , Ramvall Peter
Published: September 2023

Wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductor devices based on SiC, GaN and Ga2O3 provide advantages for many strategic initiatives in various industrial sectors, such as data centers, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems like solar and wind power inverters. Here we provide an overview of our ongoing WBG semiconductor related research/development and innovation activities, especially on GaN based devices owing to their rapid/huge demanding in the emerging green technology market nowadays. In particular, the innovative GaN material epi growth, the device processing/packaging and related characterization/verification are elaborated.
(Invited) Bonding Strength of Cu-Cu Hybrid Bonding for 3D Integration Process
Authors: Fujii Nobutoshi , Furuse Shunsuke , Yoshioka Hirotaka , Ogawa Naoki , Yamada Taichi , Hirano Takaaki , Saito Suguru , Hagimoto Yoshiya , Iwamoto Hayato
Published: September 2023

Cu-Cu hybrid bonding is a significant technology for fabricating 3D stacked semiconductor devices. In hybrid bonding, the calculation of bonding strength is complex due to the various materials present in the bonding interface. This interface not only includes Cu/Cu and dielectric/dielectric interfaces, but also the Cu/dielectric interface because of the misalignment of Cu pads. In this study, we developed an integrated model regarding total bonding strength, considering the different interfaces. Additionally, considering the thermal expansion of Cu pads, we demonstrated the dependence of bonding strength on misalignment using simulations. At the dielectric/dielectric bonding interface, a phenomenon was observed, in which the H2O contained in the dielectric enhanced the bonding strength. We proposed a model for the increase of the bonding strength by filling the bonding interface gap with thermally expanded dielectrics. These results provide understanding regarding a part of the mechanism involved in bonding strength in Cu-Cu hybrid bonding.
Edge Bonding Voids Management Using Humid Helium Bonding Atmosphere
Authors: Fournel Frank , Larrey Vincent , Morales Christophe , Michaud Laurent Gaëtan
Published: September 2023

Hydrophilic direct wafer bonding involves two types of bonding voids: classical voids caused by contamination or surface topography, and edge voids resulting from the bonding wave dynamics. The adiabatic expansion of the bonding wave at the wafer edge can lead to condensation of humidity and the formation of small water droplets, resulting in bonding defects even without contamination. These defects persist even under dry gas conditions. Two methods are used to address this issue. The first is vacuum bonding (<0.1 mbar), and the second involves using gases with a negative Joule-Thomson coefficient, such as helium. Helium is preferred due to its low coefficient and cost-effectiveness. However, bonding under pure helium results in lower adhesion and adherence energy. In this study, humid helium, generated using a dedicated humidifier, is used to evaluate the adhesion energy and adherence of standard Si/SiO2 bonding.
Nanosecond Laser Irradiation for Interface Bonding Characterization
Authors: Larrey Vincent , Arribehaute Arthur , Caulfield Brendon , Acosta Alba Pablo , Morales Christophe , Noël Paul , Opprecht Mathieu , Fournel Frank , Landru Didier , Rieutord Francois
Published: September 2023

In this study, we propose a novel method to quantify the interfacial water trapped at the direct bonding interface. The concept is to intentionally create bonding defects with controlled size and shape, and use them as sensors for the gases generated through the oxidation of a material (in our case, Silicon) by water adsorbed on the surfaces prior to bonding. The evolution of the sensor sizes provides valuable insights into the amount of gas they have trapped, allowing us to analyze the imbibition effect. Analyzing sensors arrays also enables us to quantify the amount of water that was initially present at the bonding interface. Moreover, it opens up the possibility of proposing a novel bonding energy measurement method.