bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are We Postcanonical Yet?
Authors: Dodds Lara , Dowd Michelle M
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides historical contextualization for the problems surrounding early modern women’s writing and canonicity. It explains how and why canonicity has remained important as a conceptual strategy for understanding women’s writing, and it also suggests some alternative paths moving forward. The chapter begins with a discussion of how the logic of recovery has shaped early modern women writers’ relationship to the literary canon. The chapter then explores an apparent paradox: The large number of anthologies and editions of early modern women’s writing that have been published in recent decades have expanded access to these texts but have not substantially altered the canon in practice. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the myth of “post canonicity” and a list of practical strategies for reimagining and transforming the canon.
Is it Any Good?
Authors: Dodds Lara , Dowd Michelle M
Published: February 2025

This chapter identifies a commonly posed question about early modern women’s writing—“is it any good?”—as a sexist provocation. The first half of the chapter documents the persistence of detraction in women writers’ reception histories and demonstrates that such detraction functions not as useful judgment on the literary qualities of women’s works, but instead as literary gatekeeping that authorizes scholarship on women’s writing by delegitimizing their writing in aesthetic terms. In the second half of the chapter, brief case studies of poetry by Mary Wroth and Margaret Cavendish and the genre of the recipe are used to demonstrate that women’s writing displays a range of literary excellence that far exceeds the narrow aesthetic criteria of a literary tradition that was built upon the exclusion of women’s texts.
Early Modern Women in the Classroom
Authors: Dodds Lara , Dowd Michelle M
Published: February 2025

This chapter focuses on pedagogy and argues that the classroom is an important space for the development of early modern women’s writing as a central part of English literary history. Offering a partial yet instructive narrative of the recent pedagogical history of early modern women’s writing, this chapter accounts for both continuities and change in the teaching of these texts in undergraduate classrooms from approximately 1980 to the present. The chapter is organized into three main sections: (1) a selective history of early modern women’s writing in the classroom and some of the challenges teachers have faced; (2) a methodological discussion that posits the classroom as a place where knowledge about early modern women’s writing can be produced, not just disseminated; and (3) a broadly oriented discussion of recent classroom practices, drawing on the experiences of current and former teachers of early modern women’s writing as guides for moving forward.
Social Identity and Working Class Support for the Populist Radical Right
Authors: Castater Eric G , Han Kyung Joon
Published: February 2025

Why are blue-collar workers increasingly supporting the populist radical right? Previous explanations for this phenomenon suggest that it is the result of economic and cultural grievances and general discontent towards the political system. This volume argues that these explanations are unable to account for why the working class—despite their deteriorating economic position in recent decades—would prefer to vote for a party family that they agree with more on cultural issues (the populist radical right) than economic issues (the populist radical or mainstream left). To explain this puzzle, the authors develop a theory utilizing the literature on social identity. They argue and empirically find that political and economic conditions relatively unfavourable to the working class increase blue-collar support for the populist radical right by strengthening these workers’ national identity and thus also the salience they place on cultural issues. Their analysis suggests that if governing parties desire to reduce support for the populist radical right, they should incorporate labour organizations into the welfare state reform process, enact economic policies that improve the well-being of a broad swath of the working class, and reduce the types of economic inequality that most affect blue-collar workers.
The Policymaking Process
Authors: Castater Eric G , Han Kyung Joon
Published: February 2025

This chapter focuses on the policymaking process. In particular, it considers whether governments adopted welfare state reforms unilaterally or in consultation with labour unions through the social pact formation process. When governments fail to convert social pact proposals into actual social pact agreements or enact reforms unilaterally, blue-collar workers become more likely to support populist radical right-wing parties due to a strengthened nation-based identity and the increased salience of cultural issues. Given that union members are more likely to be informed about and actively involved in the social pact formation process than non-union members, unilaterally enacted reform legislation and the social pact formation process may have a stronger effect on blue-collar workers that belong to a union than those who do not. Contrary to the authors’ expectations, they find that the welfare state reform process has similar effects on union and non-union members.
Physical activity promotion based on positive psychology: development and piloting of a novel intervention approach
Authors: Connell Bohlen Lauren , Oselinsky Katrina , Vornlocher Carley , Lee Harold H , Michels Emma , Dunsiger Shira I , Bock Beth C , Kahler Christopher W , Williams David M
Published: February 2025

Background

Regular physical activity (PA) is associated with positive health outcomes; however, rates of regular PA are low. Positive psychology interventions are efficacious in other health contexts and may be useful for promoting regular PA.

Purpose

Phased development and pilot/feasibility testing of a positive psychology intervention to promote PA using the ORBIT model for behavioral treatment development.

Methods

Positive psychology and PA promotion content was translated (phase 1a) and refined (phase 1b) into two 6-week, group-based treatments: Positive psychology for PA (PPPA), and a standard PA promotion comparison condition (SPA). A feasibility test (phase 2a) for PPPA only (n = 13) and piloting (phase 2b) of PPPA (n = 30) and SPA (n = 11) were conducted at local YMCAs.

Results

In phase 2a, participants attended 59% of treatment sessions, completed 92%-100% of assessments at mid-treatment, post-treatment, and one-month post-treatment, and 83.3% had clinically meaningful increases in PA. Following refinement, phase 2b PPPA participants attended an average of 73% of the treatment sessions, 90% completed assessments at mid-treatment, post-treatment, and 1-month post-treatment, 73% at 6-month post-treatment, and 81% had clinically meaningful increases in PA. SPA participants attended 75% of sessions, completed 58%-82% of assessments across timepoints, and 66.7% had clinically meaningful increases in PA. Across timepoints, PPPA participants reported positive changes in PA enjoyment (dppc= 0.622-0.782), and positive affect (dppc= 0.162-0.407) relative to SPA, and recommended the study to others to help increase PA (95.4%) and happiness (88.6%).

Conclusions

This study supports the feasibility and acceptability of a positive-psychology-based, PA promotion intervention for increasing PA in low-active adults.
A time-to-event analysis of the association between ambient air pollution and risk of spontaneous abortion using vital records in the U.S. state of Georgia (2005-2014)
Authors: Hsiao Thomas W , Gaskins Audrey J , Warren Joshua L , Darrow Lyndsey A , Strickland Matthew J , Russell Armistead G , Chang Howard H
Published: February 2025

We examined the association between ambient air pollution exposure and risk of spontaneous abortion (SAB) using Georgia state-wide fetal death records from 2005-2014. Each SAB case was matched to four non-SAB pregnancies by maternal residential county and conception month. Daily concentrations of ten pollutants were estimated and linked to maternal residential census tracts. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) across four prenatal exposure windows (first month, weekly, cumulative weekly average over the first trimester, cumulative weekly average over the second trimester). Our dataset contained 47,649 SABs with a median gestational age of nine weeks. Carbon monoxide (CO) showed the strongest association, with an HR of 1.12 (1.05, 1.20) per 0.43 ppm increase in average first month exposure, and 1.06 (1.02, 1.10) per 0.42 ppm increase in average weekly exposure. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) also exhibited elevated HRs. Other pollutants like nitrate compounds (NO3), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and organic carbon (OC) showed positive associations, while ozone (O3), PM2.5, PM10, elemental carbon (EC), and ammonium ions (NH4) were null. Early pregnancy exposure to traffic-related pollutants may increase SAB risk, highlighting potential benefits of air pollution regulation.
A qualitative exploration of the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the alcohol assertive outreach model
Authors: Scoles Laura H , Mylonas Nikolaos , Priyam Aansha , Blood Stephen , O’Donnell Amy , Drummond Colin , Lovell Karina , Kaar Stephen J
Published: February 2025

Alcohol use disorder has adverse implications for individuals' health, utilisation of healthcare services, and societal costs. There are a group of individuals who frequently attend hospital for alcohol-related issues, have complex co-morbid needs, and experience barriers to engaging with specialised alcohol treatment services. To support these individuals and reduce healthcare system costs, Alcohol Assertive Outreach Treatment (AAOT) has been recommended. However, AAOT is not routinely used in the UK. Understanding the determinants of the implementation of AAOT can increase its utilisation and effectiveness. This study therefore employed the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) framework to highlight barriers and facilitators to the successful and sustainable implementation of AAOT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty AAOT team staff members (team managers and outreach workers) from two North West England AAOT teams. Twenty-eight stakeholders (clinicians, commissioners, policy makers and academics across England) were also interviewed, who were considered to be key contributors to AAOT implementation, both within and external to North West England. Framework analysis based on the CFIR was conducted, whilst allowing for inductive coding where appropriate. Overall, participants recognised AAOT as acceptable and beneficial. Three main themes were identified: organisational and individual level factors, including team culture and staff characteristics; systemic partnerships and interagency communication; and an adaptable model driven by research and evaluation. Each theme relates to various CFIR domains and constructs which were perceived to influence the implementation of AAOT. Readers are encouraged to consider the findings in the development and implementation of AAOT teams, new or existing.
Pastboon: an R package to simulate parameterized stochastic Boolean networks
Authors: Taheri-Ledari Mohammad , Marashi Sayed-Amir , Kavousi Kaveh
Published: February 2025

Influencing the behavior of a Boolean network involves applying perturbations, which, in standard deterministic Boolean networks, is equivalent to modifying the update rules. Nevertheless, manipulating update functions to make a Boolean network exhibit desired dynamics is challenging, as it requires extensive knowledge of the rationale behind the logical equations. Moreover, modifying logical rules can inadvertently alter essential functional and behavioral characteristics of the network. An alternative approach is to incorporate a set of parameters into the logical functions of Boolean networks. With such methods, one can alter the behavior of the network without needing detailed knowledge of the logical functions. We developed pastboon, an R package to simulate parameterized stochastic Boolean networks using three parameterization methods. This package enables researchers to study the phenotypic effects of various perturbations on Boolean network models describing cellular processes, which find valuable applications in systems biology.

Availability

pastboon is freely available on the R CRAN repository at https://cran.r-project.org/package=pastboon, and its source code can be accessed on GitHub at https://github.com/taherimo/pastboon.
Behavioural diversity of an insular population of Tramea darwini, with notes on Brachymesia herbida and Erythemis vesiculosa (Odonata, Libellulidae)
Authors: Cordero-Rivera Adolfo , Rivas-Torres Anais , Encalada Andrea C
Published: February 2025

Behavioural diversity is a level of biodiversity that focuses on the existence of alternative behaviours, either linked to different ecological functions or with similar functional significance. Here, we tested whether libellulid dragonflies from species-poor communities of Isabela island (Galapagos) show high diversity in their egg-laying strategies, which is the expectation if the behavioural niche is not completely filled by the relatively few species present in the community. Our results indicate that the community of odonates of these island ponds shows very high diversity of oviposition strategies, with four modes for Tramea darwini (more than any other studied population of the genus) and two for the other common libellulids, Brachymesia herbida and Erythemis vesiculosa. The most frequent oviposition strategy of T. darwini (‘tandem–oviposition–tandem’) was clearly less efficient than oviposition by females alone or under non-contact guarding, and a similar result was found for B. herbida and E. vesiculosa, whose females were more efficient when alone in comparison to oviposition under male non-contact guarding. We suggest that this paradox is attributable to sexual conflict, which favours a different behaviour in males and females.
Primary ventral and incisional hernias: comprehensive review
Authors: Henriksen Nadia A , Bougard Heather , Gonçalves Mário R , Hope William , Khare Ritu , Shao Jenny , Quiroga-Centeno Andrea C , Deerenberg Eva B
Published: February 2025

Background

Primary ventral and incisional hernias are frequent conditions that impact the quality of life of patients. Surgical techniques for ventral hernia repair are constantly evolving and abdominal wall surgery has turned into a highly specialized field.

Methods

This is a narrative review of the most recent and relevant literature on the treatment of primary ventral and incisional hernias performed by eight experts in ventral hernia surgery from across the world and includes review of classification systems, preoperative measures, descriptions of surgical techniques, and postoperative complications.

Results

Repairs of primary ventral and incisional hernias range from simple open procedures in healthy patients with small defects to complex procedures when patients are co-morbid and have large defects. Optimizing patient-related risk factors before surgery is important to decrease complication rates. Surgical repair techniques from open repairs to minimally invasive procedures are described in detail in the review. Minimally invasive techniques are technically more demanding and take longer, but decrease the risk of surgical-site infections and shorten the duration of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Treatment of ventral hernias aims to improve the quality of life of patients. The risks and benefits of procedures should be weighed against patients’ complaints and co-morbidities. Optimizing patient-related risk factors before surgery is important.
Safety of interleukin-17A inhibitors in 306 patients with psoriasis with or without latent tuberculosis: a dual-centre retrospective study in China
Authors: Hu Kun , Liu Yizhang , Sha Yang , Zhang Mi , Jian Lu , Duan Yongfang , Lv Chengzhi , Kuang Yehong
Published: February 2025

Background

New interleukin (IL)-17A inhibitors seem to demonstrate smaller effects on tuberculosis (TB) reactivation than expected.

Objectives

To evaluate the risk of TB reactivation, to assess serial interferon (IFN)-γ levels, and to weigh up the risks and benefits of TB chemoprophylaxis in patients with psoriasis treated with IL-17A inhibitors.

Methods

This dual-centre study included patients with psoriasis who were treated with IL-17A inhibitors. The incidence of active TB, serial IFN-γ levels tested by IFN-γ release assays (IGRAs), adverse events (AEs) and effectiveness were evaluated through 1 year in patients with psoriasis treated with IL-17A inhibitors. According to the chemoprophylaxis treatment regimen, patients with latent TB infection (LTBI) were classified into three groups: a complete chemoprophylaxis dose regimen (CCP), an incomplete chemoprophylaxis (ICCP) or no chemoprophylaxis (NCP).

Results

In 220 IGRA-negative patients, 17 of 220 (7.3%) became IGRA positive after receiving a mean of 69.1 weeks of IL-17A inhibitor treatment. Only one case of new-onset TB was observed after 52 weeks of ixekizumab therapy. Significant changes in IFN-γ levels were observed in IGRA-negative patients. Similarly, IFN-γ levels [listed as the mean (SD)] significantly increased at 1 year compared with baseline among IGRA-positive patients in the NCP [105 (68.7) vs. 236 (80.8) pg mL−1, P < 0.01] and ICCP [75.3 (48.3) vs. 608 (249) pg mL−1, P < 0.001] groups, whereas the changes were not significant [125 (26.6) vs. 131 (21.7) pg mL−1, P = 0.70] in the CCP group.

Conclusions

During IL-17A inhibitor therapy, there is a need for increased awareness of annual screening and assessment of individual risk for early detection of TB infection. LTBI treatment is generally well tolerated and is effective in preventing increased IFN-γ responses in patients with psoriasis treated with IL-17A inhibitors.
Lichen planopilaris presenting with symmetrical patchy alopecia of the beard
Authors: Yong Shin Shen , Chitreddy Vijaya , Nirenberg Alexander , Bhoyrul Bevin
Published: February 2025

We present a case series of three male patients who developed symmetrical patches of alopecia dermoscopically and histopathologically consistent with lichen planopilaris (LPP) in the beard. One patient subsequently developed scarring hair loss along the frontotemporal hairline but the other two did not experience any scalp hair loss. Intralesional corticosteroid injections resulted in disease stabilisation in two patients, while the third patient was lost to follow-up. One patient had a small hair transplant within a patch of hair loss, with excellent graft survival at 18 months. Our study highlights LPP as a differential diagnosis for beard alopecia, even in the absence of scalp hair loss.
Rethinking Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients with Cirrhosis: First, Do No Harm
Authors: Markley J Daniel , Bajaj Jasmohan S
Published: February 2025

Antibiotic prophylaxis for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBPPr) in patients with cirrhosis has been considered standard of care since the 1990s and is currently recommended by several major gastroenterological societies. However, the evidence supporting this practice is weak and there is no clear mortality benefit. The unintended consequences of this strategy are not insignificant, both at the patient and population level. Recent evidence suggests that SBPPr may even cause harm. Since the widespread implementation of SBPPr three decades ago, our overall approach to antibiotic use has shifted. We now recognize the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the potential harms of antibiotics, and the vital role of antimicrobial stewardship. In light recent developments and evidence, there is an urgent need for infectious disease, antimicrobial stewardship, and hepatology leaders to collaborate to develop an updated and cohesive approach to SBPPr.
Case report of a cardiac Harlequin syndrome—electrical storm during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Heinrich Maria , Maier Lars S , Müller Thomas , Lubnow Matthias , Dietl Alexander
Published: February 2025

Background

In sepsis-induced cardiogenic shock, venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) can improve survival. Simultaneous acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) increases the risk of differential hypoxia (Harlequin syndrome). Due to desaturated blood ejected by the heart, the head becomes blue, whereas the lower body remains oxygenated by VA-ECMO. We report on an unusual cardiac manifestation, leading to electrical storm.

Case summary

We present the clinical case of a 55-year-old man. During a minor viral pneumonia, superinfection led to severe ARDS and sepsis-induced refractory cardiogenic shock. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was initiated. In progressive respiratory failure, an electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed the onset of ST-segment elevations mirroring hypoxic coronary perfusion. As the mixing zone of blood from the heart and the VA-ECMO was in the ascending aorta, hypoxia was limited to the heart. Ventricular arrhythmias recurred, until ventricular fibrillation remained refractory to defibrillation. A second return cannula was inserted into the jugular vein, and veno-arteriovenous ECMO (V-AV-ECMO) was established. After the venous return was added to the circuit, ventricular fibrillation was defibrillated and sinus rhythm remained stable. Within an hour, ST-elevations receded. Systolic function recovered to normal within 26 days.

Discussion

In severe sepsis-related cardiogenic shock, cardiac output is likely to recover. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a potential bridge to recovery. Apart from textbook knowledge, Harlequin syndrome can exclusively cause coronary ischaemia, leading to ST-segment elevations and electrical storm. ECGs reveal ST-elevations for early detection. Isolated cardiac Harlequin syndrome can be overlooked or misinterpreted as result of coronary artery disease, but needs immediate therapy to save the patient’s life (e.g. V-AV-ECMO).
Do Higher Levels of Lifetime Victimization Predict an Earlier Onset of First IADL Limitation in Later Life?
Authors: Bell Mallory J , Ren Jinnan , Sauerteig-Rolston Madison R , Ferraro Kenneth F
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

This study examines the relationship between lifetime victimization and health in later life and asks whether level of lifetime victimization is associated with an earlier onset of an IADL limitation.

Research Design and Methods

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (N=11,143), we construct three levels of lifetime victimization (none, monovictimization, and polyvictimization). We use Weibull accelerated failure time models to examine the relationship between level of lifetime victimization and onset of an IADL limitation.

Results

Monovictimization and polyvictimization were associated respectively with a 9% and 18% earlier time to onset of an IADL limitation compared to individuals who did not experience victimization. Additionally, polyvictimization respondents had an earlier onset of an IADL limitation compared to monovictimization respondents.

Discussion and Implications

Lifetime victimization is a life course antecedent to IADL limitations in later life, especially among individuals who have experienced multiple types of victimization. Future research should examine resources that slow health declines among people who have experienced victimization.
Examining ED Utilization and Hospital Admissions among Older Undocumented Immigrants: Insights from a Primary Care County Program
Authors: Haro-Ramos Alein Y , Axeen Sarah , Gorman Anna , Schneberk Todd , Ro Annie
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Limited access to preventive healthcare among undocumented immigrants may increase healthcare needs with age, leading to higher Emergency Department (ED) utilization and hospitalizations. While county programs like My Health LA (MHLA) in Los Angeles County (LAC), California, provide primary care to older undocumented adults, our understanding of the group’s specific health issues prompting ED visits and potential legal status differences in ensuing hospital admissions is limited.

We compared legal status differences in the likelihood of an ED-originating hospital admission among older immigrant patients in LAC. We examined the top 10 diagnostic categories for undocumented (MHLA and non-MHLA participants) and documented patients to understand the health conditions that bring older immigrants to the ED and those that result in hospital admission.

Research Design and Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 239,861 ED encounters from 2016 to 2020 across three LAC safety-net hospitals involving immigrant patients aged 50+. Multivariable mixed-effects models estimated the relationship between patient legal status and odds of ED-originating hospital admission.

Results

Undocumented patient encounters, both MHLA (OR=0.75, 95% CI: 0.71-0.78) and non-MHLA (OR=0.88, 95% CI: 0.85-0.91), were less likely to result in ED-originating hospital admissions than documented patient encounters. The top clinical reasons for treat-and-release (i.e., ED visits discharged home) visits and ED-originating hospital admissions among undocumented immigrants were similar to those of their documented counterparts.

Discussions and Implications

Older undocumented patients in MHLA were less likely to be admitted following an ED visit. Health programs should be designed for both documented and undocumented patients.
Emotional assertiveness: China's coercive diplomacy against non-state actors
Authors: Forsby Andreas B
Published: February 2025

While the economic, political and military instruments of China's coercive diplomacy have been intensely studied in recent years, its emotional dimension has largely been overlooked. This article investigates China's ‘emotional assertiveness’ as a distinct discursive practice of coercion in which state representatives publicly express moral indignation and urge offenders to apologise for violating China's red lines. It examines several western non-state actors targeted by China in this way, as these unexplored cases provide a unique perspective on the role played by emotions in state coercive diplomacy. Specifically, they demonstrate how identity-related emotionalized concerns, rather than instrumental and strategic considerations, may sometimes constitute the underlying motivational driver of China's assertiveness. Apart from carving out new space for a non-rationalist approach to coercive diplomacy within the International Relations discipline, the article develops the key components of China's emotional assertiveness, arguing that it is fuelled by moral indignation, rather than anger; is triggered by a perceived wrong; is nurtured by identity-related concerns; and is manifested in repeated demands for repentance. To illustrate China's practice of emotional assertiveness, the article analyses two specific cases: Intel's instruction in 2021 to its suppliers to avoid products from Xinjiang and an opinion piece that appeared in the Wall Street Journal in early 2020, titled ‘China is the real sick man of Asia’.
The Consequences of Preterm Birth in the Children of Mothers with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Friedman Sonia , Garvik Olav Sivertsen , Nielsen Jan , Jølving Line Riis , Andersen Mette Louise , Nørgård Bente Mertz
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mothers with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at increased risk of delivering their infants preterm. In the general population, chronic diseases in adulthood as well as increased morbidity and mortality are associated with being born preterm. We aimed to examine whether this was true for preterm versus full-term infants born to mothers with IBD.

Methods

This is an observational cohort study based on the Danish Health Registries. The study population comprised all live-born singleton children, born to mothers with IBD, during the study period of 1995 through 2016. We estimated the risk of selected chronic diseases in offspring born preterm to mothers with IBD. These included epilepsy, chronic lung disease and asthma, depression and bipolar affective disorder, autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia/psychosis, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and mental retardation/intellectual disabilities. We adjusted for relevant confounders.

Results

In all, 736 children were born preterm, and 9655 were born full-term to mothers with IBD. The median, 25th, and 75th percentiles of the follow-up time of the children were 11.1 (6.4, 16.3) years and 11.4 (7.3, 16.3) years for the full-term and preterm cohorts, respectively. There was a statistically significant increased risk of mental retardation/intellectual disabilities in preterm versus full-term children (aHR 2.15; 95% CI 1.07-4.36). We also found a non-significantly increased risk of epilepsy (1.11; 0.51-2.42), chronic lung disease and asthma (1.10; 0.76-1.60), schizophrenia/psychosis (1.17; 0.50-2.73), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder 1.15 (0.83-1.60).

Conclusion

Our study indicates the possibility of chronic health consequences in children born preterm to mothers with IBD.
A comparative analysis of consumers’ patterns of reimbursable prescription medications between online-only and community pharmacies
Authors: Olesen Anne Estrup , Simonsen Jacob Herrig , Madsen Susanne Storm , Hansen Rikke Nørgaard , Sørensen Ann Lykkegaard
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Online pharmacies have emerged as a novel method for procuring reimbursable medicines. The study aimed to compare consumers’ patterns of reimbursable prescription medications between online-only and community pharmacies in The North Denmark Region which is one of five regions in Denmark.

Method

The retrospective study used registered data for all reimbursable medicine prescriptions from pharmacies in 2022 across Denmark but specifically retrieved from patients residing in The North Denmark Region.

Key findings

In 2022, 4414 and 395 438 patients obtained reimbursable medicines from 2 online-only and 240 community pharmacies, respectively. The age distribution of patients using online-only pharmacies was significantly different from community pharmacies (P < .001) as the proportion of patients in age groups 30–69 years was higher for online-only pharmacies. Whereas patients above the age of 70 were more likely to fill prescriptions from community pharmacies. The gender distribution of patients using online-only pharmacies was different from community pharmacies (P < .001) as a higher proportion of females filled prescriptions from online-only pharmacies. The distribution of patients’ living areas differed between the two types of pharmacies (P < .001), where the proportion of patients from metropolitan municipalities was higher at online-only pharmacies. The distribution of prescriptions by anatomical therapeutic chemical code differed between the two types of pharmacies (P < .001).

Conclusion

Consumer patterns were different between online-only and community. These insights may inform pharmacy owners, ensuring both online and community pharmacies meet public health needs effectively in the future.
Toward a Holistic Study of Mosques in the US: A Critical Integrative Literature Review and Framework
Authors: Mohammed Hassnaa
Published: February 2025

US mosques have gained considerable scholarly attention, focusing on the contested grounds on which they stand. Although literature on US mosques has been published in different fields, there is no work assessing the current state of research. Given that the number of Muslims is exponentially increasing in the US and the number of mosques increased by 31 percent between 2010 and 2020, synthesizing existing publications may lead to a renewed perspective on ways to study these complex institutions. This study sets forth a systematic critical integrative review of literature published on US mosques in peer-reviewed journals. The study presents overarching trends in publications related to mosques before December of 2022, identifies seven main themes in existing literature, proposes an integrative framework for studying mosques by highlighting global, regional, local, and internal factors that impact mosques’ development, and identifies unanswered questions in the body of literature.
Temperature-dependent parasitism, development, and reproduction of Microplitis manilae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) on Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Tian Shuang , Di Xue-Yuan , Yan Bin , Yu Yuan-Chan , Ren Peng , Wu Hui-Zi , Yang Mao-Fa
Published: February 2025

The braconid wasp Microplitis manilae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a solitary, koinobiont endoparasitoid of young Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) larvae and one of its most crucial natural parasitic enemies. The establishment of a stable and sufficient population of M. manilae by rearing them in a laboratory is the cornerstone of field release management. However, when reared in a laboratory, M. manilae is affected by temperature. Here, we attempted to optimize the rearing temperature of M. manilae for parasitizing second-instar S. litura larvae by examining the effects of rearing at 5 temperatures: 16 °C, 20 °C, 24 °C, 28 °C, and 32 °C. Our results suggest that the development of the parasitoid progeny speeded up with shorter durations of the egg–larval, pupal, and preadult stages with the increase in temperature from 16°C to 32 °C. The parasitism rate and fecundity of M. manilae upon parasitizing second-instar S. litura larvae increased with rearing temperature from 16°C to 24 °C, with the peaks at 24 °C reaching 52.90% and 111.70 eggs/female, respectively, and then decreased at 28 °C to 32 °C. At 24 °C, the sex ratio (0.22) was the lowest, whereas the emergence rate (68.54%) did not differ significantly compared with those at other temperatures. Meanwhile, at 28 °C, the parasitism rate, fecundity, and emergence rate approached the levels at 24 °C, whereas the sex ratio was higher (0.29) than at 24 °C. These findings suggest 24 °C to 32 °C is the most appropriate temperature range for M. manilae mass rearing under laboratory conditions.
Effects of synergists on the efficacy of long-lasting insecticide-incorporated netting against Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) and Rhyzopertha dominica (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae)
Authors: Ming Qinglei , Morrison William R , Zhu Kun Yan , Campbell James F , Scully Erin D
Published: February 2025

Long-lasting insecticide-incorporated netting (LLIN) has been used to deliver pyrethroids for management of stored product insect pests in food facilities. However, the development of resistance to pyrethroids in stored product pests is a widespread and urgent problem, which threatens the efficacy of commercially available LLINs. A potential approach for enhancing LLIN efficacy is the use of insecticide synergists to inhibit detoxification enzymes and exacerbate the effects of pyrethroids. Here, we evaluated the synergistic properties of 3 detoxification enzyme inhibitors—piperonyl butoxide (PBO), diethyl maleate (DEM), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP)—with LLIN against the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), and the lesser grain borer Rhyzopertha dominica (Fabricius). Pre-exposure to PBO resulted in higher mortality after exposure to LLIN for T. castaneum and R. dominica. With pre-exposure to PBO followed by LLIN exposure, there was a trend for lower LT50 values for both species, while the extent of synergistic effects was greater on R. dominica than T. castaneum. In contrast, with pre-exposure to DEM and TPP followed by LLIN exposure, there were no significant reductions in LT50 values for both species. In addition, the presence of food had a significant effect on the recovery and delayed mortality in T. castaneum and R. dominica, reducing the efficacy of synergist and LLIN in combined exposures. This study provides baseline data towards improving the efficacy of LLIN against stored product pests.
Non-canonical NF-κB signaling in dendritic cells is required for ATP-driven indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 induction through P2Y11 receptor
Authors: Ocadlikova Darina , Fiordi Benedetta , Trabanelli Sara , Salvestrini Valentina , Ciciarello Marilena , Forte Dorian , Campazzi Emma , Vitali Letizia , Cipollitta Serenella C , Pegoraro Anna , Jandus Camilla , Di Virgilio Francesco , Adinolfi Elena , Cavo Michele , Curti Antonio
Published: February 2025

Extracellular ATP released from dying cells, including tumor cells, is a key mediator of inflammation and tolerance by binding to purinergic receptors on dendritic cells, resulting in inflammasome activation (via P2X7R), dendritic cell maturation (via P2Y11R), and Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 upregulation. However, the regulation of ATP-driven Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 expression in human dendritic cells has been poorly investigated. In this work we aimed to investigate the ATP-driven molecular regulation of Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 expression via purinergic receptors and to provide an in-depth characterization of ATP-driven T regulatory cells induced by Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1-expressing dendritic cells. We identified P2Y11R as being responsible for ATP-driven Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 upregulation, and non-canonical NF-kB as a molecular pathway associated with ATP-dependent Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 induction through P2Y11R. Then we investigated - but did not confirm - an involvement of inflammasome machinery through P2X7R in Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 upregulation. Finally, we evaluated the role of ATP catabolism via ATP ectonucleotidases, i.e. CD39 and CD73 and its main product adenosine, in regulating the generation of Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1-driven T regulatory cells. We found that ATP-driven Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 upregulation is associated with CD73 upregulation and adenosine production. Additionally, ATP-treated Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1-positive mature dendritic cells induce PD-1-expressing bone fide suppressive T regulatory cells via adenosine A2AR. Collectively, a more in-depth understanding of ATP-driven immune-regulatory mechanisms through Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 regulation in human dendritic cells leading to the induction of T regulatory cells can have clinical implications for the development of Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 inhibitors in cancer patients, especially in combination with immunotherapy such as an anti-CD73 or adenosine receptor agonist and immunogenic chemotherapy.
Mussel Goo as Glue
Authors: Jerome W Gray (Jay)
Published: February 2025

Skin grafting is a critical component for healing damaged skin when the damage is extensive. Engraftment requires adhering replacement tissue over the damaged area. Traditional adherence methods, such as stapling or suturing the replacement in place, can produce additional damage and complicate healing. Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have developed an adhesive mixture with superior properties for attaching skin grafts and promoting wound healing. The mixture is based on polymers derived from mussels.
Enhancing the Performance of Benchtop Transmission Electron Microscopes in Noisy Environments
Authors: McMahon Jim
Published: February 2025

The world’s only benchtop transmission electron microscope (TEM), from Delong Instruments, combines high-contrast imaging with nanoscale resolving power. The low-voltage electron microscope can operate in four imaging modes: TEM; scanning EM (SEM); scanning transmission EM (STEM); and electron diffraction; without having to realign the column or adjust the sample, allowing both surface and transmission images of a sample to be captured from the same area of interest. Negative-stiffness vibration isolation enhances the performance of the instrument in vibration-challenged noisy environments.
12-Year-old girl with systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by gangrene and intermittent claudication
Authors: Uechi Takashi , Horinouchi Tomoko , Inoki Yuta , Tanaka Yu , Kitakado Hideaki , Ueda Chika , Nagano China , Yamaguchi Masato , Tsuji Yoriko , Nozu Kandai
Published: February 2025

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can present with various symptoms, including rare manifestations such as gangrene. This report describes a 12-year-old girl with SLE who presented with intermittent claudication and gangrene. Although intermittent claudication is rare in paediatric cases, it is essential to consider vascular diseases including those associated with SLE as a potential cause. The patient initially experienced pain, redness, and cold sensations in the right great toe accompanied by intermittent claudication, with symptoms worsening over time. Diagnostic imaging, including contrast-enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, revealed occlusion of the right popliteal artery with associated vasculitis and thrombosis. The diagnosis of SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome was confirmed based on clinical criteria. Treatment included prednisone, methylprednisolone pulse therapy, mycophenolate mofetil, hydroxychloroquine, and anticoagulants. The patient showed significant improvement, with resolution of claudication and effective management of her gangrene through immunosuppressive therapy and careful wound care. This case highlights the importance of considering vascular complications in paediatric SLE and underscores the need for early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
Intrathecal Sintilimab for Leptomeningeal Metastases of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Failed from Targeted Therapy and Intrathecal Chemotherapy (LMIS study)
Authors: Fan Chengjuan , Hu Yuanyuan , Teng Chong , Lv Yanju , Song Xiaowei , Shen Weixi , Jiang Qiuying , Huang Dayong , Du Lina , Wang Guohua , Du Yang , Man Siqi , Zhang Zhichao , Zhang Jing , Li Li , Xin Tao
Published: February 2025

Backgroud

Leptomeningeal metastases (LMs) are serious complications of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of intrathecal immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in treating NSCLC-LM.

Methods

We conducted this prospective phase 1 study (ChiCTR2200062245) using a traditional "3 + 3" design with intrathecal sintilimab (dose escalation 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, and 40mg) for NSCLC-LM patients who had progressed from targeted therapy and intrathecal pemetrexed. The primary study endpoints were safety and recommended dose, and the secondary endpoints included clinical response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), intracranial progression-free survival (iPFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

No dose-limiting toxicity was found at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, and 40mg for intrathecal sintilimab. Therefore, sintilimab 40mg was recommended for intrathecal injection. A total of 19 patients were enrolled in this study. The median age at diagnosis of LM was 53 years. The overall incidence of adverse events (AEs) was 68.4%, and rash (n=4, 21.1%) was the most common AEs, which returned to normal after symptomatic treatment. As 1 patient was lost to follow-up and 18 patients could be evaluated for efficacy, the clinical response rate was 38.9% (7/18). Median PFS was 3.5 months (95% CI: 2.7-4.2 months), median iPFS was 3.5 months (95% CI: 1.3-5.6 months), and median OS was 11.5 months (95% CI: 0.0-25.4 months).

Conclusions

Intrathecal ICIs for NSCLC-LM patients are safe, and the recommended dose of sintilimab is 40mg. Intrathecal sintilimab for NSCLC-LM failed from multi-line therapies, showed potential effectiveness in some patients, and is worthy for further study.
Quantifying antimicrobial disposals at six community pharmacies with longitudinal medication disposal programs: an underappreciated component of a One Health approach to antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Hoskins Elizabeth , Bickenbach Elizabeth M , Buchanan Margaret , Detter Steve , Ferguson Michael , Freeman Ahunna , Hoskins Ryan , Johnston Aaron , Lee Robbin , Marks Brian , Weger Brittany R , Bradley Courtney L , Smith Jordan R , Carlson Travis J
Published: February 2025

Background

Unused, unwanted, and expired (UUE) medications, including antibiotics, pose a risk to our patients, their families, and our environment. A One Health approach to antimicrobial stewardship calls for stewards to recognize the interconnection between humans and our shared environment. The aims of this project were twofold: 1) educate community members about the importance of responsible medication disposal and 2) quantify the UUE medications returned to community pharmacies.

Methods

Medication disposal programs were established at several community pharmacies in central North Carolina. Periodically, pharmacy school faculty and students visited the participating pharmacies to identify, quantify, and dispose of all UUE medication returns. Medications were deactivated using a Deterra® Multi-purpose or Rx Destroyer™ All-purpose Disposal System and disposed of in accordance with product instructions and applicable laws and regulations.

Results

Between November 2021 and May 2023, six community pharmacies maintained longitudinal medication disposal programs. In total, 144,084 UUE prescription medication tablets/capsules containing approximately 19.3 kg of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) were disposed of. Antimicrobials accounted for 2.6% of all tablets/capsules and nearly 1.3 kg (6.6%) of API. The most disposed antibiotics were doxycycline, amoxicillin, clindamycin, cephalexin, and ciprofloxacin.

Conclusions

In this geographically limited study, nearly 1.3 kg of antimicrobial API was disposed of in a span of one and a half years. Recognizing antimicrobial disposal as an important component of a One Health approach to antimicrobial stewardship, with the goal of expanding these efforts, may influence antimicrobial resistance in our environment.
Governance of Generative AI
Authors: Taeihagh Araz
Published: February 2025

The rapid and widespread diffusion of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has unlocked new capabilities and changed how content and services are created, shared, and consumed. This special issue builds on the 2021 Policy and Society special issue on the governance of AI by focusing on the legal, organizational, political, regulatory, and social challenges of governing generative AI. This introductory article lays the foundation for understanding generative AI and underscores its key risks, including hallucination, jailbreaking, data training and validation issues, sensitive information leakage, opacity, control challenges, and design and implementation risks. It then examines the governance challenges of generative AI, such as data governance, intellectual property concerns, bias amplification, privacy violations, misinformation, fraud, societal impacts, power imbalances, limited public engagement, public sector challenges, and the need for international cooperation. The article then highlights a comprehensive framework to govern generative AI, emphasizing the need for adaptive, participatory, and proactive approaches. The articles in this special issue stress the urgency of developing innovative and inclusive approaches to ensure that generative AI development is aligned with societal values. They explore the need for adaptation of data governance and intellectual property laws, propose a complexity-based approach for responsible governance, analyze how the dominance of Big Tech is exacerbated by generative AI developments and how this affects policy processes, highlight the shortcomings of technocratic governance and the need for broader stakeholder participation, propose new regulatory frameworks informed by AI safety research and learning from other industries, and highlight the societal impacts of generative AI.