bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why kinship still needs anthropologists in the 21st century
Authors: Cveček Sabina
Published: February 2024

With the rise of ancient DNA studies in prehistoric archaeology, terms such as matriliny and patriliny are commonly used in scholarly literature. From a sociocultural anthropological perspective, however, the two terms are not as simple and unproblematic as is widely accepted among archaeogeneticists. Matriliny and patriliny are umbrella terms for societies with a wide range of political and kinship practices, with or without a state. Moreover, archaeogenetic literature has assumed specific associations with matrilineal and patrilineal descent that are not supported by sociocultural anthropology. To properly understand the diversity of human sociopolitical forms in both the deep and recent past, archaeology – in its broadest sense, including archaeogenetics – must avoid essentializing prehistoric communities without exploring the empirical nuances that are well documented ethnographically. Finally, the article calls for more engagement in debates on kinship and sociopolitical organization in prehistory from sociocultural anthropological perspectives.
Precision Medicine, Future Risk and the Present Self
Authors: Hoffman Lisa M.
Published: February 2024

In May 2015, my mother was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer and passed away three months later at the age of 78. Two years later, my older brother, only 53 at the time, was also diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He passed away 15 months later. With this news, we engaged in the genetic retelling of family histories and connections, drawing genealogical maps on pieces of paper that reminded me of teaching Anthro 101 and starkly reimagined which relatives ‘mattered’ in our lives. As an anthropologist interested in subject formation and spatiality informed by a Foucauldian analytic, I have been propelled into exploring what it means to become ‘high risk’ (as a biologically related daughter and sister), subject to new regimes of surveillance and self‐management espoused by the field of precision medicine. This paper addresses this experience and thus contributes to questions of subject formation within the already‐existing truth‐making practices of genetic probability and personalized risk management.
Ontological transformations: the Kawaiwete's shifting relations with spirits as seen through changing ideas of conception
Authors: Brusco Rodrigo , Oakdale Suzanne
Published: February 2024

Drawing on the insights of the ontological turn, this article explores how human and nonhuman social relations have changed over a thirty‐year period for a community of Tupian Kawaiwete people in Brazil's Xingu Indigenous Territory. Changes in human‐spirit relations are discussed through a focus on people's changing understandings of human conception and the relative importance and roles of maternal and paternal substances, shamanic practitioners, and spirit beings. While changes in relations with nonhuman others are usually understood in lowland literature in terms of the impact of outside forces, such as conversion to Christianity, in this article, we look at the agency of one particular shaman in restructuring humans’ relations with spirits, bringing these entities much closer than they used to be three decades ago. We argue that this shaman is responding to his historical context, and look at how his agency is entangled with the agency of nonhumans. Ultimately, we suggest that cosmology and ideas of conception are more variable and transformable than they are often portrayed.
Building the new architecture of crisis management: Global experts' insights on best and worst practices for securing external funding
Authors: Liu Brooke Fisher , Jin Yan , Zhao Wenqing , Schwarz Andreas , Truban Olivia , Seeger Matthew
Published: February 2024

External funding is an important yet understudied area of inquiry in crisis communication research. With external funding being a keystone of assessing and broadening research impact in both academia and industry, it is important for scholarship to examine effective practices for funding proposals. This study explores the best and worst practices for funded research through an expert consultation survey of 36 global communication scholars with track records of funding success. Findings reveal motivating factors for seeking, securing and managing funding, as well as institutional factors. Findings also inform best and worst practices for securing external funding, including bridging theory and practice and establishing strong research partnerships.
Intersectional disparities in outpatient alcohol treatment completion by gender and race and ethnicity
Authors: Delk Joanne , Bensley Kara , Ye Yu , Subbaraman Meenakshi S. , Phillips Aryn Z. , Karriker‐Jaffe Katherine J. , Mulia Nina
Published: February 2024

Background

Untreated alcohol use disorder (AUD) can have negative outcomes, including premature death. Completing specialty treatment for AUD can improve economic and educational outcomes. However, there are large racial and ethnic disparities in treatment completion, and how these disparities vary intersectionally (e.g., by gender and race and ethnicity) is unknown. Recent studies suggest that not using an intersectional approach can mask important disparities. We estimated disparities in AUD nonintensive outpatient treatment completion by gender alone, race and ethnicity alone, and intersectionally in a gender‐by‐race‐and‐ethnicity model. Accurately quantifying treatment completion disparities is critical not only for understanding healthcare disparities but reducing them to advance health equity.

Methods

Data are from SAMHSA's 2017 to 2019 Treatment Episode Dataset–Discharges for adults aged 18+ who entered nonintensive outpatient treatment primarily for alcohol (n = 559,447 episodes; 30.3% women; 63.7% White, 18.0% Black, 14.4% Hispanic/Latinx, 2.1% American Indian/Alaska Native [AIAN], 1.0% Asian/Pacific Islander). Using the rank‐and‐replace method, treatment completion disparities were estimated by gender, race and ethnicity, and gender‐by‐race‐and‐ethnicity due to any reason other than differences in need for treatment, consistent with the Institute of Medicine's definition of a healthcare disparity.

Results

The intersectional gender‐by‐race‐and‐ethnicity model identified the widest range of disparities among all models tested. Using this model, the largest disparities were identified for minoritized women's treatment episodes. Compared to White men whose completion rate was 60.79% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 60.06, 60.98), Black, Hispanic/Latina, AIAN, and Asian‐American/Pacific Islander women had treatment episode completion rates that were 12.35 (CI: 12.33, 12.37), 9.08 (CI: 9.06, 9.11), 10.27 (CI: 10.22, 10.32), and 4.87 (CI: 4.78, 4.95) percentage points lower, respectively.

Conclusions

In the United States, treatment completion rates for non‐intensive outpatient alcohol treatment episodes are significantly lower for minoritized women than White men. The extent of the disparity is not apparent in univariate models, highlighting the importance of an intersectional approach to understanding disparities in the completion of non‐intensive outpatient treatment for AUD.
Vaginal candida infection is associated with host molecular signatures of neutrophil activation in the adjacent ectocervical mucosa in Kenyan sex workers
Authors: Hasselrot Tyra , Boger Mathias Franzén , Kaldhusdal Vilde , Åhlberg Alexandra , Omollo Kenneth , Lajoie Julie , Kimani Joshua , Tjernlund Annelie , Fowke Keith R. , Czarnewski Paulo , Broliden Kristina
Published: February 2024

Problem

Overgrowth of candida species in the human vaginal mucosa causes inflammation, which could render the mucosal barrier more susceptible to HIV infection. Here, we investigated whether this condition also affects the ectocervical mucosa, a potential site of HIV entry, in women at high risk of HIV infection.

Method of study

Retrospective medical data and ectocervical tissue samples were obtained from a cohort of Kenyan sex workers. Among 108 women, seven had signs of vaginal candida infection by wet smear microscopy and/or the presence of characteristic discharge. Women lacking these two criteria served as controls. Host transcriptomic profiling and quantitative in situ image analysis of epithelial barrier markers and CD4+ cell distribution were performed.

Results

The candida group had 162 differentially expressed genes out of 15 435 genes as compared with the control group. Among these 162 genes, 147 were upregulated and 15 were downregulated. Gene expression pathway analysis indicated associations with an upregulated inflammatory response, defined primarily by markers of neutrophil activation. Transcription factor analysis revealed upregulation of pathways related to RELA/REL/NFKB1, JUN and STAT1 in the candida group. In situ image analysis of ectocervical tissue samples showed no differences between groups in terms of epithelial height, expression of epithelial junction proteins (E‐cadherin, claudin‐1, zonula occludens 1, and desmoglein‐1), or epithelial CD4+ cell distribution.

Conclusions

Vaginal candida infection was associated with inflammation and neutrophil infiltration, but not with severe epithelial disruption or CD4+ cell infiltration, in the ectocervical mucosa.
Kisspeptin prevents pregnancy loss by modulating the immune microenvironment at the maternal‐fetal interface in recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Yang Yanhong , Song Saizhe , Gu Shuting , Gu Yanzheng , Zhao Ping , Li Dongxiao , Cheng Wei , Liu Cuiping , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2024

Problem

Immune factors are crucial in the development of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). This study aimed to investigate whether kisspeptin regulates immune cells at the maternal‐fetal interface and whether G protein‐coupled receptor 54 (GPR54) is involved in this process, through which it contributes to the pathogenesis of RSA.

Method of study

Normal pregnancy (NP) (CBA/J × BALB/c) and RSA (CBA/J × DBA/2) mouse models were established. NP mice received tail vein injections of PBS and KP234 (blocker of kisspeptin receptor), whereas RSA mice received PBS and KP10 (active fragment of kisspeptin). The changes in immune cells in mouse spleen and uterus were assessed using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. The expression of critical cytokines was examined by flow cytometry, ELISA, Western blotting, and qPCR. Immunofluorescence was employed to detect the coexpression of FOXP3 and GPR54.

Results

The findings revealed that the proportion of Treg cells, MDSCs, and M2 macrophages in RSA mice was lower than that in NP mice, but it increased following the tail vein injection of KP10. Conversely, the proportion of these cells was reduced in NP mice after the injection of KP234. However, the trend of γδT cell proportion change is contrary to these cells. Furthermore, FOXP3 and GPR54 were coexpressed in mouse spleen and uterus Treg cells as well as in the human decidua samples.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that kisspeptin potentially participates in the pathogenesis of RSA by influencing immune cell subsets at the maternal‐fetal interface, including Treg cells, MDSC cells, γδT cells, and M2 macrophages.
The Road to Oligarchic Peace: Comparing the Antebellum United States and Ukraine
Authors: Platonova Daria
Published: February 2024

This article endeavours to answer the question as to what accounts for the preservation of peace in the United States and Ukraine in 1850 and 2004 when there was a potential for an armed conflict. I argue that parallels can be drawn between the events taking place in both countries in the antebellum period, and, through a detailed empirical comparison, it can be demonstrated that peace endures when, during a supreme moment of crisis, an “oligarchic peace”, that is a compromise, is negotiated at the level of national and regional elites that ensures representation and protection of property rights for the key elites.
Qualitative longitudinal methodologies for crisis times: Against crisis exceptionalism and ‘helicopter’ research
Authors: Brickell Katherine , Lawreniuk Sabina , McCarthy Lauren
Published: February 2024

In this introduction to the collection of papers ‘Qualitative Longitudinal Methodologies for Crisis Times’, we argue that two main characteristics or ‘qualities’ of qualitative longitudinal methodologies (QLMs) can be identified for researching crisis. The first is that QLMs can function to repudiate crisis exceptionalism. The papers denounce the discrete and time‐limited, instead impressing the ongoingness of crisis from the past, the present, and into the future. The second overarching point made in the introduction is that QLMs protect against ‘helicopter’ research, a heightened risk when studying crisis times. Together the papers offer a close and complex introspection on the use and outcome of QLMs in spaces and times of crisis from the perspective of researchers undertaking the research, and in multiple instances, research participants enrolled in them.
Neogene evolution of the margin adjacent to the La Plata River Delta (Pelotas Basin): Sedimentary pathways and the origins of the Rio Grande Cone
Authors: Tagliaro Gabriel , Britzke Adolfo , Gama Mateus A. C. , Bauli Pedro , Negrão André P. , Jovane Luigi
Published: February 2024

Continental margins that exhibit high terrigenous input are generally located near deltas that are capable of transporting large quantities of sediments into the basin. However, in rare cases, high terrigenous sedimentation occurs in regions deprived of major riverine systems where the sedimentary pathway is enigmatic. One such case is the Neogene of the Pelotas Basin of Brazil and Uruguay, adjacent to the La Plata River mouth. Since the Miocene, anomalous sedimentation formed a giant progradational wedge, the Rio Grande Cone, one of the largest submarine fan‐like features on Earth. To understand the Neogene evolution of the margin and the origins of the Rio Grande Cone, here we present a seismic‐stratigraphic framework based on well‐logs and 2D seismic data. Three depositional environments are identified: (1) on the shelf, upper Miocene to Pliocene fluvial channels delivered sand deposits on the mud‐dominated shelf; (2) on the slope, sediment instability resulted in structural deformation and multiple phases of mass transport deposition and (3) on the lower slope and basin floor, large contourite drifts formed by sediment reworking. We classify the Rio Grande Cone as a megaslide complex, due to its depositional and structural setting. Local deltaic systems were active on the shelf in the Neogene, but the limited size of their paleo‐drainage systems in comparison to the volume of sedimentation in the margin suggests that an additional sedimentary pathway existed. In this sense, the demise of an epicontinental sea over the La Plata Basin during the Neogene likely enabled the input of large volumes of fine sediments into the margin, via the La Plata plume water. We suggest that the desiccation of this epicontinental sea and the intensification of ocean currents since the middle Miocene explains the anomalous Neogene terrigenous influx into the SW Atlantic margin.
Exploring the desires to become academics: Reflections of academic women in Chinese non‐elite public universities
Authors: Yuan Boya , Tang Li
Published: February 2024

This study explores the dynamic journey of women as they become academics in non‐elite Chinese public universities. It focuses on their aspirations and the evolving subjectivity that accompanies this process. Ten participants from the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) fields, aged 28–57, were interviewed; the transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Adopting a Butlerian perspective, our findings identify two distinct subjectivities that shape Chinese women's decision to become academics: autonomous subjectivity driven by intrinsic desire and strategic subjectivity driven by instrumental desire. We argue that becoming an academic is a complex process influenced by regulatory power, including market forces, institutional and societal constraints, and gender norms, which shape the context in which the desire is pursued. It is essential to view this decision not only from the individual's perspective but also from the larger context within which it is made. This study contributes to the literature on gender equality in academia by interrogating the complexities of the decision‐making processes for Chinese women pursuing academic careers in non‐elite Chinese universities.
Quantification of midostaurin in plasma and serum by stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry: Application to a cohort of patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wiesen Martin H. J. , Stemler Jannik , Fietz Cornelia , Joisten Carolin , Cornely Oliver A. , Verougstraete Nick , Streichert Thomas , Müller Carsten
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Midostaurin is an oral multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Therapeutic drug monitoring of midostaurin may support its safe use when suspecting toxicity or combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Methods

A stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the determination and quantification of midostaurin in human plasma and serum. Midostaurin serum concentrations were analyzed in 12 patients with FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3)‐mutated AML during induction chemotherapy with cytarabine, daunorubicin, and midostaurin. Posaconazole was used as prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections.

Results

Linear quantification of midostaurin was demonstrated across a concentration range of 0.01–8.00 mg/L. Inter‐ and intraday imprecisions of the proposed method were well within ±10%. Venous blood samples were taken in nine and three patients in the first and second cycle of induction chemotherapy. Median (range) midostaurin serum concentration was 7.9 mg/L (1.5–26.1 mg/L) as determined in 37 independent serum specimens.

Conclusion

In a real‐life cohort of AML patients, interindividual variability in midostaurin serum concentrations was high, highlighting issues concerning optimal drug dosing in AML patients. A personalized dosage approach may maximize the safety of midostaurin. Prospective studies and standardization of analytical methods to support such an approach are needed.
Optimal timing of return migration in Atlantic salmon
Authors: Foldvik Anders , Ulvan Eva Marita , Næsje Tor
Published: February 2024

In many populations of Atlantic salmon, individuals return to rivers months or even a year prior to spawning. This premature arrival in fresh water by far exceeds the time needed for upstream migrations to spawning areas. Leaving the ocean early means forgoing substantial growth and incurring high metabolic costs of fasting in freshwater. Differences in timing of return migration has been shown to have a genetic basis, and different sea age classes return to rivers at different times. Previously suggested explanations regarding the cause for this behaviour have included both environmental factors and life history trade‐offs, but these hypotheses have not been tested. Here, we combine data on marine growth and mortality of Atlantic salmon with the calculations of energetic expenditures of fasting in freshwater to explore how timing of river entry affects the probability of survival and energy recourses available for spawning. Our results show that to maximize the product of survival until spawning and energy available at spawning, multi sea winter fish in general must enter rivers earlier than one sea winter fish. And that for a large range of sea survival rates, the optimum river entry date for multi sea winter fish is as early as possible. This strongly suggests that the phenomena of premature arrival in Atlantic salmon is adaptive behaviour.
Taking a chance on China: African student‐entrepreneurs in greater Zhejiang Province
Authors: Rothschild Viola
Published: February 2024

Driven by macro‐level investment and strategic competition, engagement between China and African countries has expanded significantly in recent years, giving rise to increased migration flows between the two regions. Wary of Beijing's growing influence on the continent, Western scholarship and media often portray China as extractive and neo‐colonialist, whereas Africa and Africans are depicted as passive and lacking agency. This study examines an important yet understudied group operating at the crux of contemporary Sino–African relations that challenges these assumptions: young, African student‐entrepreneurs studying and working in China. Drawing on data from 10 months of ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with African student‐traders, as well as Chinese university administrators, students, and officials, this study finds that African student‐traders have developed a set of strategies that allow them to navigate, exploit and reconfigure Chinese structures as they pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations, suggesting that the Sino–African relationship is far from one‐sided.
Craft breweries and residential property values
Authors: Zhou Yang , Reid Neil , Carroll Michael C.
Published: February 2024

This paper studies the effect of craft breweries on residential property values. Using a hedonic Difference‐in‐Differences (DID) approach and about 250 thousand housing transactions in Denver, Colorado from 1990 to 2016, we investigate the impact of proximity to a craft brewery on residential property values. We consider three types of residence (single‐family home, row house, and condominiums), three types of brewery (all craft breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs/taprooms), and two measurements of distance (Euclidian and walk‐time). Our most robust results are found for single‐family homes, whose values enjoy a premium of up to 20.4% for being in proximity to a brewpub/taproom several years after, with the average annual maximum premium around 3%. As expected, premiums decline as distance from breweries increase. Beyond a distance of 0.5 km or a 10‐min walk‐time, the premium for a regional/microbrewery is greater than that for a brewpub/taproom. For single family homes within 4 km or 40‐min walk‐time, the annualized premium ranges between 0.41% and 3.01%. These findings support the narrative that craft breweries are a neighborhood asset.
Risk factors related to surgical wound infection after caesarean section: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhu Dawei , Wu Yujie , Fan Lin , Liu Xinghui
Published: February 2024

Surgical site infection (SSI) is one of the common postoperative complications after caesarean section for pregnant women. Previous studies have investigated the risk factors for SSI in pregnant women undergoing caesarean delivery. Whereas big differences in research results exist, and the correlation coefficients of different research results are quite different. A meta‐analysis was conducted to examine the risk factors related to SSI in pregnant women undergoing caesarean delivery. We searched English databases to collect case–control studies or cohort studies published between 1 January 2015 and 15 November 2023, including PubMed, Web of Science and ScienceDirect. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed via Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. The analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.1 tool. A total of 24 articles (n = 581, 895) were selected in this meta‐analysis. The following risk factors were presented to be significantly correlated with SSI in pregnant women following caesarean delivery: smoking (odds ratio [OR] = 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.31, 2.04]), previous caesarean section (OR = 1.46, 95% CI [1.18, 1.82]), multiple vaginal examinations (OR = 2.92, 95% CI [1.91, 4.46]), membrane rupture (OR = 1.68, 95% CI [1.19, 2.38]), hypertensive disorders (OR = 1.85, 95% CI [1.33, 2.57]), diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.36, 95% CI [1.18, 1.57]), high body mass index (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.35, 1.84]). Occurrence of SSI is influenced by a variety of factors. Thus, we should pay close attention to high‐risk subjects and take crucial targeted interventions to lower the SSI risk after caesarean section. Owing to the limited quality and quantity of the included studies, more rigorous studies with adequate sample sizes are needed to verify the conclusion.
Telemedicine models of care: A retrospective review of telehealth in a Melbourne outpatient chronic wound service in 2021
Authors: Burger Sarah Jacqueline , Sage Sarah , Bondini Carla Maree , Ly Ngoc Bao Huynh , Iseli Rebecca Kate
Published: February 2024

To review the application of telehealth guidelines developed by Bondini et al for clinicians to determine patient suitability for telehealth in an outpatient Chronic Wound Service, including the proportion of patients suitable for telehealth, type and mode of telehealth encounters. Retrospective, random convenience sample of patients attending the Chronic Wound Service in 2021. Fifty‐six patients were included, most with leg/foot wounds (93%), median age 74 [54–84], 64% male. Four patients at admission and 19 patients at review met criteria for telehealth. Six percent of encounters were telehealth; phone‐only (82%), unscheduled nursing reviews (77%) in patients with healing wounds. Thirty patients (54%) received at least one telehealth encounter. Telehealth occurred 35.6 days later in the admission than face‐to‐face encounters (p < 0.05, 95% CI 14.9–56.3). There was a significant relationship between patients receiving telehealth and meeting telehealth suitability criteria on reviews (X2 (1) = 19.6*, p < 0.001). Eighteen percent of patients required wound‐related hospitalisation during their outpatient admission. Telehealth guidelines identified patients suitable for telehealth, although the proportion of patients was small. Telehealth was mostly utilised for nurse‐led telephone calls in patients with improving wounds. Future research into use of telephone review for clinical standards of wound care is warranted.
Studying the effects of stress, mental health and psychological well‐being on wound healing rates after oesophageal varices ligation in liver cirrhosis patients
Authors: Yu Hui Xi , Fu Ling Xue , Wang Yi Ying , Zheng Sheng Li
Published: February 2024

It is of utmost importance to comprehend the impact that psychological factors have on physical rehabilitation, specifically in regards to wound healing following ligation of oesophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. The present study investigated the correlation between wound recovery rates and psychological well‐being, stress and mental health. From January 2022 to September 2023, 148 patients from were evaluated as part of this cross‐sectional observational study. The psychological well‐being of participants was evaluated utilizing the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Psychological General Well‐Being Index (PGWBI). The rates of wound recovery were assessed following ligation. The mean duration for wound recovery was 28.37 ± 9.65 days. The mean wounds healing time of patients who obtained higher PSS scores (18.55) was marginally longer. On the contrary, there was a moderate reduction in healing time associated with higher HADS scores (mean 14.10). On average (68.88), PGWBI scores indicated a negligible effect on wound healing. The variance in healing durations between Child‐Pugh classifications A, B and C (mean values of 28.65, 26.90 and 29.57 days respectively) suggested that the severity of liver disease has an impact. As a result of ligation of oesophageal varices, the study demonstrated that psychological factors and wound recovery in patients with liver cirrhosis are intricately intertwined. There seems to be the substantial and intricate relationship between stress, mental health and wound recovery. The results of this study supported the notion that psychological evaluation and support should be incorporated into the management of patients with liver cirrhosis.
Solid state synthesis of BiFeO3 occurs through the intermediate Bi25FeO39 compound
Authors: Wesley Corrado , Bellcase Leah , Forrester Jennifer S. , Dickey Elizabeth C. , Reaney Ian M. , Jones Jacob L.
Published: February 2024

The solid‐state synthesis of perovskite BiFeO3 has been a topic of interest for decades. Many studies have reported challenges in the synthesis of BiFeO3 from starting oxides of Bi2O3 and Fe2O3, mainly associated with the development of persistent secondary phases such as Bi25FeO39 (sillenite) and Bi2Fe4O9 (mullite). These secondary phases are thought to be a consequence of unreacted Fe‐rich and Bi‐rich regions, that is, incomplete interdiffusion. In the present work, in situ high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction is used to demonstrate that Bi2O3 first reacts with Fe2O3 to form sillenite Bi25FeO39, which then reacts with the remaining Fe2O3 to form BiFeO3. Therefore, the synthesis of perovskite BiFeO3 is shown to occur via a two‐step reaction sequence with Bi25FeO39 as an intermediate compound. Because Bi25FeO39 and the γ‐Bi2O3 phase are isostructural, it is difficult to discriminate them solely from X‐ray diffraction. Evidence is presented for the existence of the intermediate sillenite Bi25FeO39 using quenching experiments, comparisons between Bi2O3 behavior by itself and in the presence of Fe2O3, and crystal structure examination. With this new information, a proposed reaction pathway from the starting oxides to the product is presented.
The inseparability of context and clinical reasoning
Authors: Olson Andrew , Kämmer Juliane E. , Taher Ahmed , Johnston Robert , Yang Qian , Mondoux Shawn , Monteiro Sandra
Published: February 2024

Early descriptions of clinical reasoning have described a dual process model that relies on analytical or nonanalytical approaches to develop a working diagnosis. In this classic research, clinical reasoning is portrayed as an individual‐driven cognitive process based on gathering information from the patient encounter, forming mental representations that rely on previous experience and engaging developed patterns to drive working diagnoses and management plans. Indeed, approaches to patient safety, as well as teaching and assessing clinical reasoning focus on the individual clinician, often ignoring the complexity of the system surrounding the diagnostic process. More recent theories and evidence portray clinical reasoning as a dynamic collection of processes that takes place among and between persons across clinical settings. Yet, clinical reasoning, taken as both an individual and a system process, is insufficiently supported by theories of cognition based on individual clinicals and lacks the specificity needed to describe the phenomenology of clinical reasoning. In this review, we reinforce that the modern healthcare ecosystem – with its people, processes and technology – is the context in which health care encounters and clinical reasoning take place.
The clinical use of personal hearing amplifiers in facilitating accessible patient–provider communication: A scoping review
Authors: Koerber Raphaelle M. , Kokorelias Kristina M. , Sinha Samir K.
Published: February 2024

Background

Older adults with hearing loss struggle to communicate with care providers and experience higher mortality rates when hospitalized (Genther et al., 2015), even after controlling for age and comorbidities. Personal hearing amplifiers (PHAs), (e.g., Pocketalkers™), can improve communication with older patients.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to identify research gaps and summarize findings on the clinical use of PHAs with patients with hearing loss. After refining search terms relating to hearing loss and PHAs, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science Core Collection, ERIC (Proquest), PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Registry. We identified articles published in English between 1980 and 2022 that reported empirical outcomes relating to PHA use in clinical settings. Two reviewers independently extracted data from articles. We then organized data into an evidence map, and a narrative review summarizing outcomes.

Results

From 4234 initially identified titles and abstracts, 12 met our criteria as full texts. These included three surveys on clinicians' awareness and use of PHAs, one evaluation of the acoustic output of a PHA, and eight interventions wherein PHAs were provided to patients with hearing loss. These papers used 10 different terms for PHAs and largely did not cite one another. Results showed high levels of satisfaction with PHAs, and consistently improved speech understanding. Despite this, care providers used devices inconsistently, with challenges around provider awareness, and device maintenance and location tracking.

Conclusions

PHAs have a consistent positive effect on patients' ability to understand their care providers despite hearing loss. Barriers and facilitators to their use in clinical settings should be further explored.
TWEAK levels in psoriatic patients treated with narrowband ultraviolet B and methotrexate
Authors: Hegazy Eisa Mohamed , El Taieb Moustafa A. , Ibrahim Hassan Mohamed , Rageh El‐Hassan M. , Ahmed Nour Mohammed , Ibrahim Ahmed K. , Younis Ali Mohamed , Ali Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Background

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease which has an effect on the joints and skin. Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis (TWEAK) is a multi‐functional cytokine which regulates the cellular processes and has been related to a variation of conditions.

Objectives

To measure the level of serum TWEAK in psoriatic diseased persons and its relationship to the PASI score pre‐ and post‐therapy with narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy (NB‐UVB) and methotrexate (MTX).

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 40 patients and 20 healthy persons as controls. Patient Group was randomly subdivided to two groups. The 1st group consisted of 20 patients who received NB‐UVB treatment. The 2nd group included 20 MTX‐treated candidates. Blood samples were drawn from patients in order to detect serum TWEAK levels using ELISA. The research was registered on Clinical Trials Registration: RCT approval numbers: NCT0481191.

Results

The mean PASI score percent improvement after 12 weeks of treatment was higher in the MTX group (90%) than NB‐UVB group (60%). The serum TWEAK level at baseline was 60.47 ± 12.6 pg/mL in NB‐UVB group and 54.69 ± 21.7 pg/mL in MTX group which reduced to 24.93 ± 17.6 pg/mL and 32.13 ± 23.6 pg/mL, respectively (p < 0.001), after 12 weeks of treatment. There was a positive correlation between the serum levels of TWEAK and severity of PASI score (r = 0.399, p = 0.014).

Conclusion

TWEAK grades in psoriasis are substantially higher than in controls. TWEAK levels were dramatically reduced during NB‐UVB and MTX treatment. TWEAK may have a potential sign for psoriasis diagnosis and prognosis.
Deep reinforcement learning‐based active mass driver decoupled control framework considering control–structure interaction effects
Authors: Yao Hongcan , Tan Ping , Yang T. Y. , Zhou Fulin
Published: February 2024

Control–structure interaction (CSI) plays a significant role in active control systems. Popular methods incorporate actuator dynamics into an integrated control system to account for CSI, leading to a situation where existing structural control algorithms that ignore CSI cannot be applied directly. To address this issue, this study proposes a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) based active mass driver (AMD) decoupled control framework, in which a structural control algorithm is employed to generate the control force command without consideration of CSI, while a DRL agent is utilized to attenuate the CSI effects of AMD systems and achieve a desired control force. The DRL‐based AMD control framework is verified through a series of numerical experiments. Furthermore, the applicability of the control framework is confirmed in a wind‐excited 76‐story benchmark building. Comprehensive analysis indicates that the proposed control framework can effectively eliminate the CSI effects and apply accurate control force to the structure in various scenarios, which allows for an ideal structural response control.
Obesity is associated with higher prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and reflux related complications: A global healthcare database study
Authors: Xie Mengdan , Deng Lifu , Fass Ronnie , Song Gengqing
Published: February 2024

Background

Prior studies have demonstrated that obesity may be associated with the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and GERD‐related complications. However, such association has never been assessed in a global‐wide real‐world patient population.

Methods

The TriNetX electronic health records network, which involves 92 healthcare organizations in 12 countries, was utilized for this multicenter global health research network study. The cohort with obesity comprised adult patients with body mass index (BMI) of more than 30 kg/m2. We performed 1:1 propensity score matching to decrease confounders effects. The prevalence of GERD and GERD‐related complications including erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus (BE), BE with dysplasia, and esophageal adenocarcinoma were assessed.

Results

A total of 2,356,548 patients were included in the obesity and non‐obesity groups after propensity score matching. In the group with obesity, patients had a significantly higher prevalence of GERD (30% vs. 24%, OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.34–1.36) compared to the group without obesity. Further analysis showed a higher prevalence of GERD‐related complications in the group with obesity with statistical significance: Erosive esophagitis (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05–1.08), Barrett's esophagus (1.08, 1.05–1.10), BE with dysplasia (1.11, 1.04–1.18), esophageal cancer (1.32, 1.15–1.51).

Conclusion

Globally, obesity was associated with a higher prevalence of GERD and GERD‐related complications.
Correlation analysis of airway‐facial phenotype in Crouzon syndrome by geometric morphometrics: A promising method for non‐radiation airway evaluation
Authors: Zhong Yehong , Chen Zhewei , Li Binghang , Ma Hengyuan , Yang Bin
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to verify the correlation of the airway‐facial phenotype and visualize the morphological variation in Crouzon syndrome patients. Additionally, to develop a non‐radiation methodology for airway assessments.

Method

In this study, 22 patients diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome (Age: 7.80 ± 5.63 years; Gender distribution: 11 females and 11 males) were analysed. The soft tissue surface and airway were three‐dimensionally reconstructed, and the entire facial phenotype was topologized and converted into spatial coordinates. Geometric morphometrics was employed to verify the correlation and visualize dynamic phenotypic variation associated with airway volume. A total of 276 linear variables were automatically derived from 24 anatomical landmarks, and principal component analysis (PCA) identified the 20 most significant parameters for airway evaluation. Correlation analyses between parameters and airway volume were performed. Then, patients were classified into three groups based on airway volume, and the differences among the groups were compared for evaluating the differentiating effectiveness of parameters.

Results

The facial phenotype was strongly correlated with the airway (coefficient: 0.758). Morphological variation was characterized by (i) mandibular protrusion and anticlockwise rotation; (ii) midface retrusion; (iii) supraorbital frontward and (iv) lengthening of the facial height. All the anthropometric parameters were strongly associated with the airway, and the differences among the groups were statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the strong correlation between facial phenotype and airway parameters in Crouzon syndrome patients. Despite the development of the airway, pathological midface retrusion was still aggravated, suggesting that surgical intervention was inevitable. Three‐dimensional facial anthropometry has potential as a non‐radiation examination for airway evaluation.
In vitro biomechanics of divot use, and their placement, in orthodontic aligner therapy
Authors: Kaur Harsimrat , Khurelbaatar Tsolmonbaatar , Mah James , Heo Giseon , Major Paul W. , Romanyk Dan L.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

To evaluate biomechanics of an aligner utilizing divots and the effect of their vertical placement on the right maxillary central incisor.

Methods

An in vitro Orthodontic SIMulator (OSIM) was used to test forces and moments generated by aligners incorporating divots. The OSIM arch was scanned to generate a. STL version that was modified to create four models by placing divots on different positions of the right central maxillary incisor: GI – divots on gingival‐third of lingual surface and incisal‐third of labial surface; GM – divots on gingival‐third of lingual surface and middle‐third of labial surface; MI – divots on middle‐third of lingual surface and incisal‐third of labial surface; MM – divots on middle‐third of lingual surface and middle‐third of labial surface. Aligners (n = 30/model) were fabricated using a 0.75 mm thick polyethylene terephthalate material and Biostar® machine following the manufacturer's recommendations. A one‐way MANOVA followed by one‐way ANOVA (α = 0.05) was utilized to test effect of models on buccolingual force (Fy) and mesiodistal moment (Mx) at 0.20 mm of lingual displacement of the right maxillary central incisor.

Results

Mean Mx for GI (−5.68 ± 7.38 Nmm), GM (3.75 ± 5.54 Nmm), MI (−4.27 ± 1.48 Nmm) and MM (1.96 ± 0.99 Nmm) models showed statistical differences between GI and GM, GI and MM, GM and MI and MI and MM. GI exerted the largest Fy (1.87 ± 0.75 N) followed by GM (1.10 ± 0.47 N), MI (0.70 ± 0.23 N) and MM (0.28 ± 0.08 N) with significant differences between GI and GM, GI and MI, GI and MM and GM and MM models.

Conclusions

Vertical divot placement on a right central incisor had a significant effect on aligner biomechanics. Buccolingual forces exerted by models GI, GM and MI were within the range suggested by literature for bodily tooth movement without major root tipping for GM and MI models.
Efficacy of autologous platelet concentrate products for alveolar preservation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Yi , Du Ruiyu , Yang Baohua , Tao Junming , Jing Wei
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to systematically evaluate the efficacy of autologous platelet concentrate products in the preservation of the alveolar ridge after tooth extraction through meta‐analysis and provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of autologous platelet concentrates to reduce alveolar bone resorption.

Methods

This study conducted a meta‐analysis of clinical trials between 2013 and 2023, focusing on autologous platelet concentrate products (e.g., PRP, PRF, CGF, and PRCF) used for alveolar ridge preservation after tooth extraction. The analysis included 122 articles and 371 extraction sockets. All statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager version 5.4.

Results

Results indicate that these platelet concentrates effectively reduced changes in horizontal width 1 mm below the alveolar crest and vertical socket height. They also promoted a higher percentage of new bone formation in extraction sockets compared with control groups. However, they did not significantly prevent horizontal bone resorption at 3 and 5 mm below the alveolar crest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, autologous platelet concentrates are useful for alveolar ridge preservation, but larger clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings due to the relatively small sample size in this study.
3D‐Printed Personalized Lattice Implant as an Innovative Strategy to Reconstruct Geographic Defects in Load‐Bearing Bones
Authors: Li Zhuangzhuang , Lu Minxun , Zhang Yuqi , Wang Jie , Wang Yitian , Gong Taojun , He Xuanhong , Luo Yi , Zhou Yong , Min Li , Tu Chongqi
Published: February 2024

Objective

Geographic defect reconstruction in load‐bearing bones presents formidable challenges for orthopaedic surgeon. The use of 3D‐printed personalized implants presents a compelling opportunity to address this issue. This study aims to design, manufacture, and evaluate 3D‐printed personalized implants with irregular lattice porous structures for geographic defect reconstruction in load‐bearing bones, focusing on feasibility, osseointegration, and patient outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective study involved seven patients who received 3D‐printed personalized lattice implants for the reconstruction of geographic defects in load‐bearing bones. Personalized implants were customized for each patient. Randomized dodecahedron unit cells were incorporated within the implants to create the porous structure. The pore size and porosity were analyzed. Patient outcomes were assessed through a combination of clinical and radiological evaluations. Tomosynthesis‐Shimadzu metal artifact reduction technology (T‐SMART) was utilized to evaluate osseointegration. Functional outcomes were assessed according to the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) 93 score.

Results

Multiple pore sizes were observed in porous structures of the implant, with a wide distribution range (approximately 300–900 um). The porosity analysis results showed that the average porosity of irregular porous structures was around 75.03%. The average follow‐up time was 38.4 months, ranging from 25 to 50 months. Postoperative X‐rays showed that the implants matched the geographic bone defect well. Osseointegration assessments according to T‐SMART images indicated a high degree of bone‐to‐implant contact, along with favorable bone density around the implants. Patient outcomes assessments revealed significant improvements in functional outcomes, with the average MSTS score of 27.3 (range, 26–29). There was no implant‐related complication, such as aseptic loosening or structure failure.

Conclusion

3D‐printed personalized lattice implants offer an innovative and promising strategy for geographic defect reconstruction in load‐bearing bones. This approach has the potential to match the unique contours and geometry of the geographic bone defect and facilitate osteointegration.
Biotinidase biochemical and molecular analyses: Experience at a large reference laboratory
Authors: Sharma Rajesh , Kucera Cathlin R. , Nery Camille R. , Lacbawan Felicitas L. , Salazar Denise , Tanpaiboon Pranoot
Published: February 2024

Background

Biotinidase deficiency is caused by absent activity of the biotinidase, encoded by the biotinidase gene (BTD). Affected individuals cannot recycle the biotin, leading to heterogeneous symptoms that are primarily neurological and cutaneous. Early treatment with biotin supplementation can prevent irreversible neurological damage and is recommended for patients with profound deficiency, defined as enzyme activity <10% mean normal (MN). Molecular testing has been utilized along with biochemical analysis for diagnosis and management. In this study, our objective was to correlate biochemical phenotype/enzyme activity to BTD genotype in patients for whom both enzyme and molecular testing were performed at our lab, and to review how the correlations inform on variant severity.

Methods

We analyzed results of biotinidase enzyme analysis and BTD gene sequencing in 407 patients where samples were submitted to our laboratory from 2008 to 2020.

Results

We identified 84 BTD variants; the most common was c.1330G>C, and 19/84 were novel BTD variants. A total of 36 patients had enzyme activity <10% of MN and the most common variant found in this group was c.528G>T. No variant was reported in one patient in the profound deficiency group. The most common variant found in patients with enzyme activity more than 10% MN was c.1330G>C.

Conclusions

Although enzyme activity alone may be adequate for diagnosing profound biotinidase deficiency, molecular testing is necessary for accurate carrier screening and in cases where the enzyme activity falls in the range where partial deficiency and carrier status cannot be discriminated.