bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflecting the language of ancient civilizations: A diachronic transition of “爵” and contrastive analysis of  Sino-Korean Chinese characters
Authors: Lee Sunhee , Cho Sungduk
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the historical and cultural significance of the Chinese character “爵” (jue), reflecting the culture of the ancient Bronze Age, and examines its semantic evolution and characteristics from a cognitive linguistic perspective. In addition, it compares and contrasts this with its use in Korean hanja (Chinese characters used in the Korean language). The research highlights that in ancient China, “爵” was initially used to denote a ceremonial wine vessel, symbolizing authority and social status, and was closely associated with rites and nobility. Over time, the meanings of “爵” expanded to include titles of nobility and official positions. Furthermore, the study explores the impact of Chinese culture and language on Korea, showing how “爵” and its related concepts were adopted and adapted within the Korean language and culture, maintaining some of its original meanings while also developing unique interpretations. It suggests that many Korean hanja words share identical meanings with their Chinese counterparts, but some have evolved distinctively, especially in the realm of religion, highlighting the interplay and diversity of cultural and linguistic influences between China and Korea.
Impacts of AI on Music Consumption and Fairness
Authors: Henry Antoine , Wiratama Valdy , Afilipoaie Adelaida , Ranaivoson Heritiana , Arrivé Eric
Published: September 2024

The algorithmic systems utilized by music streaming services have the potential to positively influence individual choices by promoting new artists, but they are also often accused of perpetuating biases. In this research note, we aim to explore the impact of these platforms’ AI-based algorithms on fairness in music consumption. To address this question, we adopt a multidimensional approach that considers the legal, economic, and algorithmic dimensions of fairness. This approach is applied to our EU Horizon Europe Fair MusE project, which advocates for a fairer music ecosystem. However, it should be noted that we propose a tool to score output (playlists) based on fairness models instead of directly altering the algorithms. Data from end users, data brokers, and open-source databases will inform the model, while the processing of the data is aimed at providing users with insights into algorithmic biases and empower them to influence the output. Acknowledging this aspect, this research note serves as a prelude to highlight the need for increased transparency and explainability of algorithms. Furthermore, we seek to inform policy interventions that promote fairness, particularly regarding data sharing between creators and platform providers. Such interventions would foster trust among stakeholders and benefit both users and businesses.
Challenges of Automating Fact-Checking: A Technographic Case Study
Authors: Kavtaradze Lasha
Published: September 2024

The prevalence of disinformation in media ecosystems has spurred efforts by researchers from various disciplines and media professionals to find effective methods for verifying information at scale. Automated fact-checking has emerged as a promising solution to combat disinformation. However, fully automated tools have not yet materialized. This technographic case study of a start-up company, “X,” investigated the challenges associated with this process. By conceptualizing automated fact-checking as a technological innovation within journalistic knowledge production, the article uncovered the reasons behind the gap between “X's” initial enthusiasm about AI's capabilities in verifying information and the actual performance of such tools. These reasons cross the disciplinary boundaries relating to the technological aspects of automated fact-checking and a requirement for such tools to be epistemically authoritative. The study revealed significant hurdles faced by the start-up, including issues with the accuracy of the AI editor and its adoption by the industry. Key obstacles included the elusive nature of truth claims, the rigidity of so-called binary epistemology (ascribing true/false values to information claims), data scarcity, algorithmic deficiencies, issues with the transparency of results, and industry-tool compatibility. While focused on a single company's experience, the study offers valuable insights for researchers and practitioners navigating the evolving landscape of automated fact-checking.
Preparing Future Special Education Faculty for Service in Rural Communities
Authors: Ackerman Kera B. , Ault Melinda Jones , Courtade Ginevra , Elliott Mary , Harmon Tara D. , Jones Kristie N. , Jordan Katherine L. , Long Abbi M. , Nutt Janet , O’Neill Kai M. , Rowlett Lorita N. , Snider Kate , Swain Rasheeda R. , Wright Enrika
Published: September 2024

In this program description, the authors explain how a doctoral-level embedded service-learning opportunity, part of Project PURPLE (Preparing Urban and Rural Personnel as Leaders in Education), a collaborative personnel preparation training program, taught future faculty to meet the needs of urban and rural schools in high-need settings. The collaboration between two large institutions in the U.S. same state offered scholars a unique opportunity to engage in teaching, research, and service across institutions. For the service-learning project, teams of cross-institution scholars partnered with consultants from a regional special education cooperative that provides technical assistance to a large rural geographical area. Eleven scholars completed seven diverse service projects, ranging from training education professionals to engaging caregivers. This description discusses these projects, along with the benefits to the scholars and the regional cooperative. It also explores implications for practice for future personnel preparation collaborations and possible avenues for future research.
Targeting T cells with tetravalent bispecific antibodies for the treatment of graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Espinosa-Cotton Madelyn , Hoseini Sayed Shahabuddin , Miranda Ileana C. , Herrick John , Cheung Nai-Kong V.
Published: September 2024

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is an established treatment for hematological malignancies and some genetic diseases. Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the most common and debilitating side effect with poor survival rates of 5% to 30% for severe cases. In this manuscript, we describe a tetravalent T-cell–engaging bispecific antibody (BsAb) based on the immunoglobulin G-[L]-single-chain variable fragment (IgG-[L]-scFv) platform, with all 4 binding domains specific for CD3. In vitro, picomolar concentrations of the CD3×CD3 BsAb induced potent lysis of activated CD4 and CD8 T cells. In immunodeficient mice, in which human T cells induced xenogeneic GVHD, administration of 0.1 μg BsAb per dose depleted the majority of T cells from the peripheral blood, and 10 μg per dose completely reversed established GVHD and achieved a 100% survival rate. In mice bearing NALM6-luc xenografts, treatment with CD3×CD19 BsAb and activated human T cells induced complete remission of the leukemia, and all treated mice developed GVHD by 50 days after treatment. CD3×CD3 BsAb (3-30 μg doses) reversed clinical signs of GVHD, allowing long term follow-up beyond 250 days. T cells were undetectable by polymerase chain reaction in 4 of 5 mice in the 30 μg CD3×CD3 BsAb group 180 days after leukemia injection, and complete necropsies on day 259 revealed no evidence of human T cells or leukemia cells. Curing GVHD allows for long-term follow-up of tumor response heretofore impossible in humanized mouse models. Further studies are warranted to determine whether the CD3×CD3 BsAb has potential for treating clinical GVHD and other autoimmune diseases in humans.
Predicting newborn birth outcomes with prenatal maternal health features and correlates in the United States: a machine learning approach using archival data
Authors: Henry Robert D.
Published: September 2024

Background

Newborns are shaped by prenatal maternal experiences. These include a pregnant person’s physical health, prior pregnancy experiences, emotion regulation, and socially determined health markers. We used a series of machine learning models to predict markers of fetal growth and development—specifically, newborn birthweight and head circumference (HC).

Methods

We used a pre-registered archival data analytic approach. These data consisted of maternal and newborn characteristics of 594 maternal-infant dyads in the western U.S. Participants also completed a measure of emotion dysregulation. In total, there were 22 predictors of newborn HC and birthweight. We used regularized regression for predictor selection and linear prediction, followed by nonlinear models if linear models were overfit.

Results

HC was predicted best with a linear model (ridge regression). Newborn sex (male), number of living children, and maternal BMI predicted a larger HC, whereas maternal preeclampsia, number of prior preterm births, and race/ethnicity (Latina) predicted a smaller HC. Birthweight was predicted best with a nonlinear model (support vector machine). Occupational prestige (a marker similar to socioeconomic status) predicted higher birthweight, maternal race/ethnicity (non-White and non-Latina) predicted lower birthweight, and the number of living children, prior preterm births, and difficulty with emotional clarity had nonlinear effects.

Conclusions

HC and birthweight were predicted by a variety of variables associated with prenatal stressful experiences, spanning medical, psychological, and social markers of health and stress. These findings may highlight the importance of viewing prenatal maternal health across multiple dimensions. Findings also suggest that assessing difficulties with emotional clarity during standard obstetric care (in the U.S.) may help identify risk for adverse newborn outcomes.
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen NCD care and policy in humanitarian settings: a mixed methods study exploring humanitarian actors’ experiences
Authors: Ansbro Éimhín , Heller Olivia , Vijayasingham Lavanya , Favas Caroline , Rintjema Jacqueline , Chase-Vilchez Alyssa , Stein Claire , Issa Rita , Sanga Leah , Murphy Adrianna , Perel Pablo
Published: September 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and response severely impacted people living with non-communicable diseases (PLWNCDs) globally. It exacerbated pre-existing health inequalities, severely disrupted access to care, and worsened clinical outcomes for PLWNCDs, who were at higher risk of morbidity and mortality from the virus. The pandemic’s effects were likely magnified in humanitarian settings, where there were pre-existing gaps in continuity of care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We sought to explore factors affecting implementation of NCD care in crisis settings during the COVID-19 pandemic and the adaptations made to support implementation.

Methods

Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we undertook an online survey of 98 humanitarian actors from multiple regions and organization types (March-July 2021), followed by in-depth interviews with 13 purposively selected survey respondents (October-December 2021). Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while interview data were analysed thematically, using both deductive and inductive approaches.

Results

Initially, humanitarian actors faced challenges influenced by external actors’ priorities, such as de-prioritisation of NCD care by governments, travel restrictions and supply chain interruptions. With each infection wave and lockdown, humanitarian actors were better able to adapt and maintain NCD services. The availability of COVID-19 vaccines was a positive turning point, especially for the risk management of people with NCDs and protection of health workers. Key findings include that, despite pre-existing challenges, humanitarian actors largely continued NCD services during the crisis. Enabling factors that supported continuity of NCD services included the ability to quickly pivot to remote means of communication with PLWNCDs, flexibility in medicine dispensing, and successful advocacy to prioritize NCD management within health systems. Key lessons learned included the importance of partnerships and cooperation with other health actors, and the mobilisation or repurposing of community health workers/volunteer networks.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 experience should prompt national and global health stakeholders to strengthen inclusion of NCDs in emergency preparedness, response, and resilience planning. Key lessons were learned around remote care provision, including adapting to NCD severity, integrating community health workers, providing context-adapted patient information, combating misinformation, and strengthening cross-sectoral partnerships.
Cardiovascular disease management and healthcare delivery for people experiencing homelessness: a scoping review
Authors: Macklin Jillian , Samson Bethel , Zsager Alex , Ross Heather , Pinto Andrew , Gibson Jennifer L.
Published: September 2024

Background

People experiencing homelessness have increased prevalence, morbidity, and mortality of cardiovascular disease (CVD), attributable to several traditional and non-traditional risk factors. While this burden is well-known, mainstream CVD management plans and healthcare delivery have not been developed with people experiencing homelessness in mind nor tailored to their unique context. The overall objective of this work was to explore and synthesize what is known about CVD management experiences, programs, interventions, and/or recommendations specifically for people experiencing homelessness.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to combine qualitative and quantitative studies in a single review using the Arksey and O’Malley framework and lived experience participation. We performed a comprehensive search of OVID Medline, Embase, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Social Sciences Index, Cochrane, and the grey literature with key search terms for homelessness, cardiovascular disease, and programs. All dates, geographic locations, and study designs were included. Articles were analyzed using conventional content analysis.

Results

We included 37 articles in this review. Most of the work was done in the USA. We synthesized articles’ findings into 1) barriers/challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and their providers with CVD management and care delivery (competing priorities, lifestyle challenges, medication adherence, access to care, and discrimination), 2) seven international programs/interventions that have been developed for people experiencing homelessness and CVD management with learnings, and 3) practical recommendations and possible solutions at the patient encounter level (relationships, appointment priorities, lifestyle, medication), clinic organization level (scheduling, location, equipment, and multi-disciplinary partnership), and systems level (root cause of homelessness, and cultural safety).

Conclusions

There is no ‘one-size-fits all’ approach to CVD management for people experiencing homelessness, and it is met with complexity, diversity, and intersectionality based on various contexts. It is clear, however, we need to move to more practically-implemented, community-driven solutions with lived experience and community partnership at the core. Future work includes tackling the root cause of homelessness with affordable housing, exploring ways to bring cardiac specialist care to the community, and investigating the role of digital technology as an avenue for CVD management in the homeless community. We hope this review is valuable in providing knowledge gaps and future direction for health care providers, health services research teams, and community organizations.
Metabolic modulation to improve MSC expansion and therapeutic potential for articular cartilage repair
Authors: Tee Ching Ann , Roxby Daniel Ninio , Othman Rashidah , Denslin Vinitha , Bhat Kiesar Sideeq , Yang Zheng , Han Jongyoon , Tucker-Kellogg Lisa , Boyer Laurie A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Articular cartilage degeneration can result from injury, age, or arthritis, causing significant joint pain and disability without surgical intervention. Currently, the only FDA cell-based therapy for articular cartilage injury is Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI); however, this procedure is costly, time-intensive, and requires multiple treatments. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are an attractive alternative autologous therapy due to their availability and ability to robustly differentiate into chondrocytes for transplantation with good safety profiles. However, treatment outcomes are variable due to donor-to-donor variability as well as intrapopulation heterogeneity and unstandardized MSC manufacturing protocols. Process improvements that reduce cell heterogeneity while increasing donor cell numbers with improved chondrogenic potential during expansion culture are needed to realize the full potential of MSC therapy.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the potential of MSC metabolic modulation during expansion to enhance their chondrogenic commitment by varying the nutrient composition, including glucose, pyruvate, glutamine, and ascorbic acid in culture media. We tested the effect of metabolic modulation in short-term (one passage) and long-term (up to seven passages). We measured metabolic state, cell size, population doubling time, and senescence and employed novel tools including micro-magnetic resonance relaxometry (µMRR) relaxation time (T2) to characterize the effects of AA on improved MSC expansion and chondrogenic potential.

Results

Our data show that the addition of 1 mM L-ascorbic acid-2-phosphate (AA) to cultures for one passage during MSC expansion prior to initiation of differentiation improves chondrogenic differentiation. We further demonstrate that AA treatment reduced the proportion of senescent cells and cell heterogeneity also allowing for long-term expansion that led to a > 300-fold increase in yield of MSCs with enhanced chondrogenic potential compared to untreated cells. AA-treated MSCs with improved chondrogenic potential showed a robust shift in metabolic profile to OXPHOS and higher µMRR T2 values, identifying critical quality attributes that could be implemented in MSC manufacturing for articular cartilage repair.

Conclusions

Our results suggest an improved MSC manufacturing process that can enhance chondrogenic potential by targeting MSC metabolism and integrating process analytic tools during expansion.
Quantitation of mitral regurgitation using positron emission tomography
Authors: Sigfridsson Jonathan , Baron Tomasz , Bergsten Johannes , Harms Hendrik J. , Nordström Jonny , Kero Tanja , Svanström Patrik , Lindström Elin , Appel Lieuwe , Jonasson My , Lubberink Mark , Flachskampf Frank A. , Sörensen Jens
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) offers non-invasive assessment of perfusion and left ventricular (LV) function from a single dynamic scan. However, no prior assessment of mitral regurgitation severity by PET has been presented. Application of indicator dilution techniques and gated image analyses to PET data enables calculation of forward stroke volume and total LV stroke volume. We aimed to evaluate a combination of these methods for measurement of regurgitant volume (RegVol) and fraction (RegF) using dynamic 15O-water and 11C-acetate PET in comparison to cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR).

Results

Twenty-one patients with severe primary mitral valve regurgitation underwent same-day dynamic PET examinations (15O-water and 11C-acetate) and CMR. PET data were reconstructed into dynamic series with short time frames during the first pass, gated 15O-water blood pool images, and gated 11C-acetate myocardial uptake images. PET-based RegVol and RegF correlated strongly with CMR (RegVol: 15O-water r = 0.94, 11C-acetate r = 0.91 and RegF: 15O-water r = 0.88, 11C-acetate r = 0.84, p < 0.001). A systematic underestimation (bias) was found for PET (RegVol: 15O-water − 11 ± 13 mL, p = 0.002, 11C-acetate − 28 ± 16 mL, p < 0.001 and RegF: 15O-water − 4 ± 6%, p = 0.01, 11C-acetate − 10 ± 7%, p < 0.001). PET measurements in patients were compared to healthy volunteers (n = 18). Mean RegVol and RegF was significantly lower in healthy volunteers compared to patients for both tracers. The accuracy of diagnosing moderately elevated regurgitant volume (> 30mL) was 95% for 15O-water and 92% for 11C-acetate.

Conclusions

LV regurgitation severity quantified using cardiac PET correlated with CMR and showed high accuracy for discriminating patients from healthy volunteers.
The direct inhibitory effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus, a commensal urinary bacterium, on calcium oxalate stone development
Authors: Noonin Chadanat , Putpim Anantaya , Thongboonkerd Visith
Published: September 2024

Background

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a commensal urinary bacterium found more abundantly in healthy individuals than in stone patients. Hence, it has been proposed to play an inhibitory role in kidney stone disease (KSD) but with unclear mechanisms. We therefore investigated the direct effects of L. acidophilus on calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone development compared with Escherichia coli, which is known to promote CaOx stone formation.

Results

L. acidophilus at 1 × 103 CFU/ml  significantly reduced the abundance of newly formed crystals, enlargement and aggregation of seeded crystals, and crystal adhesion on renal cell membranes. By contrast, E. coli at 1 × 103 CFU/ml significantly enhanced crystal growth and aggregation but did not affect crystallization and crystal-cell adhesion. Oxalate consumption assay showed that neither L. acidophilus nor E. coli significantly reduced the remaining oxalate level after 1 − 3 h incubation. However, both of them adhered to CaOx crystals. Surface component detection revealed that only L. acidophilus expressed S-layer protein, whereas only E. coli exhibited flagella on their surfaces. Removal of L. acidophilus S-layer protein and E. coli flagella completely abolished the inhibitory and promoting effects of L. acidophilus and E. coli, respectively.

Conclusions

L. acidophilus inhibits CaOx stone development by hampering crystallization, growth, aggregation and cell-adhesive ability of CaOx. By contrast, E. coli enhances CaOx stone development by promoting CaOx growth and aggregation. Their contradictory effects are most likely from differential surface components (i.e., S-layer protein on L. acidophilus and flagella on E. coli) not from oxalate-degrading ability.
The diversity of bronze production technologies during the Eastern Zhou dynasty revealed by analysis of slags from the Baidian and Xincun sites in Central China
Authors: Wang Cong , Gao Zhenlong , Wang Qingzhu , Gao Jun , Wang Quanyu
Published: September 2024

The Eastern Zhou period of China, characterised by complex interactions among vassal states, witnessed significant advancements in bronze production technology. However, the investigation of interactions based on technological comparison among dominant and dependent states remains limited. Focusing on two newly excavated foundry sites, Baidian in Houma, Shanxi, and Xincun in Hebi, Henan, this study provides crucial insights into the bronze production technologies and material sources used by Jin, a major vassal state in Central China, and Wei, a dependent state of Jin, during the Eastern Zhou period. Elemental analysis and microstructural examinations of slags, fragments of crucible wall and furnace wall, show the diversity of bronze production techniques between these two sites: in the Baidian site, bronzes were predominantly produced by co-melting of metallic copper and tin, and remelting of recycled bronzes, whereas in the Xincun site, bronze were probably made by co-melting of copper and tin ore. Furthermore, lead isotope analysis results suggest that the lead materials used for the bronze production at both the sites were likely from the Xiaoqinling region. Integrated with the historical background of complex interactions among vassal states, these findings not only shed light on the technological advancements and resource networks of the Jin and Wei states but also explain the relationships between technology, resources and social dynamics from various perspective. Hopefully this research would promote archeometallurgical study among regions and be applied to other Bronze Age cultures in the world.
The rare case of synchronous bilateral breast metastasis from a lung neuroendocrine tumor (small cell lung carcinoma): a case report and literature review
Authors: Shimo Ayaka , Tsugawa Koichiro , Sakamaki Kaori , Kitajima Mina , Takishita Mariko , Tazo Mizuho , Nakano Mari , Kuroda Takako , Motoyoshi Ai , Tsuzuki Makiko , Nishikawa Toru , Kawamoto Hisanori , Doi Masatomo
Published: September 2024

Background

Breast metastasis from small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SNEC) is very rare. In the present report, we describe a case of a female patient who was initially diagnosed with triple negative primary bilateral breast cancer, but during systemic examination, the diagnosis was bilateral breast metastasis from SNEC.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old woman with no history of smoking presented to the Department of General Medicine with left-sided chest pain, and computed tomography revealed masses in both breasts and left pleural thickening that was further confirmed by mammography and ultrasound of the breasts. A needle biopsy was performed, and triple negative primary bilateral breast cancer was diagnosed. Because progastrin-releasing peptide (ProGRP) 37,300 pg/ml (normal range, 0–81.0 pg/ml) and neuron-specific enolase 35.0 ng/ml (normal range, 0–16.3 ng/ml) levels were elevated, thoracoscopic biopsy was performed, and SNEC was diagnosed. Pathological examinations showed that the bilateral breast masses were also positive for immunohistochemical staining of chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and CD56, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral breast metastasis of neuroendocrine tumor.

Conclusion

Although very rare, the possibility of breast metastasis should be considered when malignancy is suspected in other organs.
Using simulation scenarios and a debriefing structure to promote feedback skills among interprofessional team members in clinical practice
Authors: Svendsen Bodil Thorsager , Petersen Lene Funck , Skjelsager Anders , Lippert Anne , Østergaard Doris
Published: September 2024

Background

Team reflexivity and peer feedback in daily clinical work can improve patient safety. However, teams do not always engage in reflection after patient care. A reason could be that team members may lack skills in engaging in team reflection. This study explores the use of interprofessional team-based simulations to encourage and equip teams for reflective conversations in the real-world clinical practice.

Methods

This was a prospective, explorative study of team members’ perceptions of the use of in situ simulation-based scenarios with critically ill patient cases to train team-based reflections and peer feedback. The study took place in two neurological wards. Prior to the intervention, a 1-day observation in each ward and semi-structured short interviews with physicians and nurses were conducted.

Results

A total of 94 staff members, 57 nurses, 8 nurse assistants and 29 physicians participated in the in situ simulation scenarios. All team members showed appreciation of the safe learning environment. The authors found that the simulations and the debriefing structure provided an opportunity for training of team reflexivity and feedback. The team members evaluated the simulation-based training very positively, and their initial reaction indicated that they found peer feedback useful for the individual and the team. This approach allowed them to reflect on their own clinical practice.

Conclusion

The simulation-based training scenarios and the debriefing structure promoted team members’ team reflexivity and peer feedback skills. The method is feasible and could be used in other specialties and situations.

The team members’ reactions to feedback were positive, and based on their reflections, there is a potential to increase both individual and team skills as well as improve patient treatment.
Risk factors for hypoechoic carotid plaque in healthy physical-examination population
Authors: Fu Meng , Fan Yani , Wang Jianhua , Chen Feifei , Cui Ying , Lu Yadan , Zhang Binbin , Zhang Bing , Chen Lili
Published: September 2024

Background

We studied the characteristics of carotid ultrasound plaque in a healthy physical-examination population and analyzed the risk factors for hypoechoic carotid plaque for early control and prevention of stroke.

Results

A total of 1333 healthy physical-examination individuals were included in this study, including 457 females and 876 males. According to the results of carotid artery ultrasound, they were divided into hyperechoic carotid plaque (n = 940) and hypoechoic carotid plaque (n = 393). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that male, alcohol consumption, and low-density lipoprotein were risk factors for hypoechoic carotid plaque. SPSS 25.0 software was used to draw the receive operating characteristic curve and calculate the prediction probability of the risk factor indicators obtained by the multifactor model. The area under the curve was also calculated to be 0.623 (95% CI = 0.591–0.655).

Conclusion

Male, alcohol consumption, and low-density lipoprotein are risk factors for hypoechoic carotid plaque in a healthy physical-examination population.
In situ observation of catalyst nanoparticle sintering resistance on oxide supports via gas phase transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Kim Wonjun , Kim Kangsik , Kim Jaejin , Lee Zonghoon
Published: September 2024

Oxide-supported metal catalysts are essential components in industrial processes for catalytic conversion. However, the performance of these catalysts is often compromised in high temperature reaction environments due to sintering effects. Currently, a number of studies are underway with the objective of improving the metal support interaction (MSI) effect in order to enhance sintering resistance by surface modification of the oxide support, including the formation of inhomogeneous defects on the oxide support, the addition of a rare earth element, the use of different facets, encapsulation, and other techniques. The recent developments in in situ gas phase transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have enabled direct observation of the sintering process of NPs in real time. This capability further allows to verify the efficacy of the methods used to tailor the support surface and contributes effectively to improving sintering resistance. Here, we review a few selected studies on how in situ gas phase TEM has been used to prevent the sintering of catalyst NPs on oxide supports.
Equivalence and test–retest reliability of Tulu sentence lists for measuring speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Miranda Arolin Blossom , Kalaiah Mohan Kumar , Shastri Usha
Published: September 2024

Background

The difficulty in understanding speech becomes worse in the presence of background noise for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. Speech-in-noise tests help to assess this difficulty. Previously, the Tulu sentence lists have been assessed for their equivalency to measure speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with normal hearing. The present study aimed to determine the equivalence and test–retest reliability of Tulu sentence lists for measuring speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with sensorineural hearing loss.

Results

The SNR-50 was measured for 13 sentence lists in 20 Tulu-speaking individuals with mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Retesting was done by administering all lists to eight participants after an average of 25.25 days (SD = 19.44). Friedman test was administered to check for the list equivalency. Intraclass correlation coefficient was measured to assess test–retest reliability. A regression analysis was performed to understand the influence of pure-tone average on SNR-50. A Kruskal–Wallis test was administered to check the statistical significance of the SNR-50 obtained across different configurations and degrees of hearing loss. Nine of the 13 Tulu sentence lists (lists 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13) were equivalent in individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. The mean SNR-50 for these nine lists was 1.13 dB (SD = 2.04 dB). The test–retest reliability was moderate (ICC = 0.727). The regression analysis showed that a pure-tone average accounted for 24.7% of the variance in SNR-50 data (p = 0.026). Individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss obtained the worst SNR-50, followed by mild and high-frequency hearing loss.

Conclusion

Nine Tulu sentence lists are equivalent and reliable and can be used to measure speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with sensorineural hearing loss who are Tulu speakers.
Effect of advancing age on event-related potentials (P300) measures
Authors: Shubhadarshan Archisman , Gaiwale Uneza
Published: September 2024

Background

Aging has been defined as a persistent deterioration in the age-specific fitness components of an organism, attributed to internal physiological degeneration. Cognitive abilities, encompassing attention, memory, executive cognitive functions, language, and visuospatial capacities, are distinctive domains affected by aging. Numerous studies have documented measurable effects on these cognitive domains, indicating a discernible decline in their functionality with advancing age. Cognitive impairment often unfolds insidiously, remaining clinically silent for extended periods. Age, as a critical factor, exerts a notable influence on P300 measures.

Result

Spearman rank correlation was calculated between age and P300 measures. In group 1A (age range of 10–20 years), we found a strong positive correlation between age and amplitude of P300 (r = 0.96, p < 0.001), while a weak correlation was found between latency and age. In group IB (age range: 21–40 years), a moderate negative correlation (r =  − 0.43, p < 0.05) was found between age and amplitude of P300, while a strong positive correlation (r = 0.87, p < 0.001) was obtained between age and latency. In group 2A (age: 41–60 years), it was found that amplitude has a strong negative correlation (r =  − 0.97, p < 0.001) with age, while latency has a strong positive correlation (r = 0.89, p < 0.001). In group 2B (age: 61–80 years), it was found that amplitude has a strong negative correlation (r =  − 0.93, p < 0.001) with age, while latency has a strong positive correlation (r = 0.95, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, it is concluded that amplitude of P300 decreases and latency increases with increasing age.
The effect of displacement loading rate on dynamic mechanical characteristics of fault stick-slip under constant normal stiffness conditions
Authors: Zhang Chuanqing , Zhang Luosong , Tao Zhigang , Xie Qiming , Zhou Aoge , Cui Guojian
Published: September 2024

The role of the displacement loading rate in fault activation and evolution is of utmost importance, yet most existing studies have primarily focused on its effect under constant normal load (CNL) conditions. However, in reality, the rock mass surrounding the earthquake source at the deep part of the fault provides normal stiffness conditions. Therefore, the influence of the displacement loading rate on the dynamic mechanical characteristics of fault stick-slip under constant normal stiffness (CNS) conditions remains uncertain. To bridge this research gap, we conduct an experimental investigation on simulated faults in granite under CNS conditions. Our analysis focus on the influence of the displacement loading rate on the spatial and temporal evolution of local stresses along the fault and the size of the fault nucleation zone. The findings reveal the following. Under the CNS condition, the equivalent shear stress is larger compared with the CNL condition, whereas the shear stress drop is smaller. The recovery of normal stress under CNS conditions depends more on the displacement loading rate. The nucleation location of the fault is influenced by the normal boundary conditions, with a larger nucleation zone observed in the CNS condition than in the CNL condition. In the early stage of friction, the local stress and stress drop of the fault exhibit a positive correlation with the displacement loading rate, whereas in the later stage, they display a negative correlation. Moreover, at the same location, the order of local stress drop rates for the fault is [Formula: see text] > [Formula: see text] > [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] represents the local normal stress drop rate, [Formula: see text] represents the local shear stress drop rate, and [Formula: see text] represents the local friction coefficient drop rate. These research results contribute to a further understanding of the deep fault-slip mechanical behavior.
Criminal intent and psychiatric evidence
Authors: Hallett Nicholas , Odutola Akinkunmi , Storey Tony , Wortley Natalie
Published: September 2024

Although forensic psychiatrists are often asked to comment on a defendant's capacity to form the necessary mens rea for their alleged offence, little has been written on how mental disorders map onto legal concepts of mens rea, particularly those of intention. In this article we explore legal concepts of mens rea and the relevance of mental disorders and alcohol intoxication. We briefly consider philosophical approaches to intentional action and a variety of common mental disorders. We conclude that despite the presence of significant psychopathology it is rare for mental disorders to cause a defendant to lack the ability to form mens rea. Experts should therefore be cautious about coming to the conclusion that they do lead to a lack of capacity to form mens rea and should make clear the limits of their expertise, given the difficulty of translating clinical mental states into legal concepts of liability.
Moving from psychiatric practice in the UK to Australia: some personal reflections
Authors: Walker Graham , Carroll Andrew
Published: September 2024

In this article, we reflect on factors which may tempt psychiatrists to move from working in the UK to Australia. A comparison between the UK and Australian healthcare systems is presented. Following this, G.W. offers personal reflections on his transition between working in the UK and Australia, including an experience of being a patient, the benefits of working and training in the respective countries, and personal sacrifices which must be considered. We conclude that individual clinicians must weigh up the positives and negatives of the system which they want to work within, with the best option for each person being specifically individual to them.
A community-based treatment and rehabilitation pathway for people with mental disorders recently convicted of an offence
Authors: Arsuffi Lara , Ozcelik Kerry , Bingham Clare , Taylor Pamela J. , French Mignon
Published: September 2024

People with mental disorders can receive treatment in the community. Some, however, fall out of services and into the criminal justice system, running the risk of imprisonment and a deteriorating mental health cycle. This editorial describes Mental Health Treatment Requirements (MHTRs), that is court-imposed sentences that enable people in the UK to access treatment in the community and divert them from short custodial sentences. MHTRs have proven successful for people with primary care mental health needs. It remains difficult to secure these sentences for people with secondary care mental health needs. Three new ‘proof of concept’ sites for secondary care MHTRs may help understand barriers and find solutions.
Clozapine, relapse, and adverse events: a 10-year electronic cohort study in Canada
Authors: Balbuena Lloyd , Halayka Shawn , Lee Andrew , Ahmed A.G. , Hinz Tamara , Kolla Nathan , Pylypow Jenna
Published: September 2024

Background

Clozapine is the most effective medication for treatment-resistant psychoses, but the balance of benefits and risks is understudied in real-world settings.

Aims

To examine the relative re-hospitalisation rates for mental health relapse and adverse events associated with clozapine and other antipsychotics in adult and child/youth cohorts.

Method

Data were obtained from the Canadian Institute of Health Information for adults (n = 45 616) and children/youth (n = 1476) initially hospitalised for mental health conditions in British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan from 2008 to 2018. Patient demographics and hospitalisations were linked with antipsychotic prescriptions dispensed following the initial visit. Recurrent events survival analysis for relapse and adverse events were created and compared between clozapine and other antipsychotics.

Results

In adults, clozapine was associated with a 14% lower relapse rate versus other drugs (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.83–0.90) over the 10-year follow-up. In the first 21 months, the relapse rate was higher for clozapine but then reversed. Over 1000 person-months, clozapine-treated adults could be expected to have 38 relapse hospitalisations compared with 45 for other drugs. In children/youth, clozapine had a 38% lower relapse rate compared with other antipsychotic medications (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.49–0.78) over the follow-up period. This equates to 29 hospitalisations for clozapine and 48 for other drugs over 1000 person-months. In adults, clozapine had a higher risk for adverse events (hazard ratio: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.18–1.54) over the entire follow-up compared with other antipsychotics. This equates to 1.77 and 1.30 hospitalisations over 1000 person-months for clozapine and other drugs, respectively.

Conclusions

Clozapine was associated with lower relapse overall, but this was accompanied by higher adverse events for adults. For children/youth, clozapine was associated with lower relapse all throughout and had no difference in adverse events compared with other antipsychotics.
Problematic diagnosis of substance-induced disorders in ICD-11
Authors: Bramness Jørgen G. , Hjorthøj Carsten , Niemelä Solja , Taipale Heidi , Rognli Eline B.
Published: September 2024

The ICD-11 was introduced in January 2022. In chapter 6, “Mental, behavioral and neurodevelopmental disorders” we find the section “Disorders due to substance use and addictive behaviors” (section 6C4). Changes from the ICD-10 in this section include broadening the categories of harmful use and dependence, including more types of substances, and the addition of more behavioral addictions (gaming disorder). These changes have been discussed and debated [1].
Atezolizumab Combined With Platinum and Maintenance Niraparib for Recurrent Ovarian Cancer With a Platinum-Free Interval >6 Months: ENGOT-OV41/GEICO 69-O/ANITA Phase III Trial
Authors: González-Martín Antonio , Rubio María Jesús , Heitz Florian , Depont Christensen René , Colombo Nicoletta , Van Gorp Toon , Romeo Margarita , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Gaba Lydia , Leary Alexandra , De Sande Luis Miguel , Lebreton Coriolan , Redondo Andrés , Fabbro Michel , Barretina Ginesta Maria-Pilar , Follana Philippe , Pérez-Fidalgo J. Alejandro , Rodrigues Manuel , Santaballa Ana , Sabatier Renaud , Bermejo-Pérez Maria José , Lotz Jean-Pierre , Pardo Beatriz , Marquina Gloria , Sánchez-Lorenzo Luisa , Quindós María , Estévez-García Purificación , Guerra Alía Eva , Manso Luis , Casado Victoria , Kommoss Stefan , Tognon Germana , Henry Stéphanie , Bruchim Ilan , Oaknin Ana , Selle Frédéric
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

To evaluate atezolizumab combined with platinum-based chemotherapy (CT) followed by maintenance niraparib for late-relapsing recurrent ovarian cancer.

METHODS

The multicenter placebo-controlled double-blind randomized phase III ENGOT-OV41/GEICO 69-O/ANITA trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT03598270
) enrolled patients with measurable high-grade serous, endometrioid, or undifferentiated recurrent ovarian cancer who had received one or two previous CT lines (most recent including platinum) and had a treatment-free interval since last platinum (TFIp) of >6 months. Patients were stratified by investigator-selected carboplatin doublet, TFIp,
BRCA
status, and PD-L1 status in de novo biopsy and randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either atezolizumab or placebo throughout standard therapy comprising six cycles of a carboplatin doublet followed (in patients with response/stable disease) by maintenance niraparib until progression. The primary end point was investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) per RECIST v1.1.

RESULTS

Between November 2018 and January 2022, 417 patients were randomly assigned (15%
BRCA-
mutated, 36% PD-L1–positive, 66% TFIp >12 months, 11% previous poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase inhibitor after frontline CT, and 53% previous bevacizumab). Median follow-up was 28.6 months (95% CI, 26.6 to 30.5 months). Atezolizumab did not significantly improve PFS (hazard ratio, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.71 to 1.10];
P
= .28). Median PFS was 11.2 months (95% CI, 10.1 to 12.1 months) with atezolizumab versus 10.1 months (95% CI, 9.2 to 11.2 months) with standard therapy. Subgroup analyses generally showed consistent results, including analyses by PD-L1 status. The objective response rate (ORR) was 45% (95% CI, 39 to 52) with atezolizumab and 43% (95% CI, 36 to 49) with standard therapy. The safety profile was as expected from previous experience of these drugs.

CONCLUSION

Combining atezolizumab with CT and maintenance niraparib for late-relapsing recurrent ovarian cancer did not significantly improve PFS or the ORR.
A Potential Role for Nivolumab in the Treatment of Fibrous Dysplasia-Related Pain
Authors: Jay Mohammad , Hawco Cassandra , Clemens Kristin K , Van Uum Stan
Published: September 2024

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a chronic and progressive disorder of bone growth because of decreased osteoblast formation and osteoclast overactivity. Its main symptoms include pain, fracture, and irregular bone growth. Bisphosphonates are the mainstay of therapy for FD with a primary goal of pain relief. A 50-year-old woman presented to ophthalmology in March 2011 with intermittent proptosis, vertical diplopia, and orbital pain. A computed tomography scan of the head revealed a skull base lesion, which was confirmed to be fibrous dysplasia on bone biopsy. Because of significant headache, she was treated with IV pamidronate monthly starting November 2011, which led to pain reduction. Repeated attempts to decrease the frequency of pamidronate were unsuccessful because of breakthrough pain. Oral alendronate and risedronate did not control her symptoms. She remained on risedronate however because of its convenience. In August 2021, she was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma and started nivolumab. Her headache completely resolved for the first time in 10 years. Although nivolumab, a programmed death-1 blocker, has been used in the treatment of bone malignancy, it has not been previously studied in FD. By suppressing RANK ligand-related osteoclastogenesis, nivolumab decreases cancer-associated bone pain. Our case suggests a potential role for nivolumab in treating FD-associated pain.
Virginia Woolf, David Jones, and the Parenthetical Space of War
Authors: Ben-Tovim Ron
Published: September 2024

Home and war seem to be spaces set apart, one defined by the rules and order of society and the other by the absolute, order-undoing destruction of battle. Yet for those families who endure war even from afar, and for those who return from war, its violence continues to fester unseen. Through a reading of Virginia Woolf’s To the Lighthouse and David Jones’s World War I epic In Parenthesis, this essay interrogates that duality through the way in which the parenthetical, repressed violence of World War I steals into the home, threatening to undermine its foundations. These works, each with its emphasis on either home or front, present a complex view of that war as well as its dark, lingering influence. Ranging from the home to the trenches, Woolf and Jones unfurl a scene of violence, composed of countless parentheticals, that presents the Great War not as a space apart but as an invasive event.