bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cefepime-taniborbactam demonstrates potent
in vitro
activity vs
Enterobacterales
with
bla
OXA-48
Authors: Mojica Maria F. , Zeiser Elise T. , Becka Scott A. , Six David A. , Moeck Greg , Papp-Wallace Krisztina M. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Taniborbactam (formerly VNRX-5133) is a novel, investigational boronic acid β-lactamase inhibitor. The combination of cefepime (FEP) with taniborbactam is active against
Enterobacterales
carrying class A, B, C, and/or D enzymes. We assessed the activity of FEP-taniborbactam against
Enterobacterales
clinical strains carrying
bla
OXA-48
(
N
= 50, 100%), of which 78% harbored at least one extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL). CLSI-based agar dilution susceptibility testing was conducted using FEP-taniborbactam and comparators FEP, meropenem-vaborbactam (MVB), and ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA). The addition of taniborbactam lowered FEP MICs to the provisionally susceptible range of ≤16 µg/mL; the MIC
90
value decreased from ≥64 µg/mL for FEP to 4 µg/mL for FEP-taniborbactam. Notably, FEP-taniborbactam MIC
50
/MIC
90
values (0.5/4 µg/mL) were lower than those for MVB (1/16 µg/mL) and comparable to those for CZA (0.5/1 µg/mL). Time-kill assays with
E. coli
clinical strains DOV (
bla
OXA-48
,
bla
CTX-M-15
,
bla
TEM-1
, and
bla
OXA-1
) and MLI (
bla
OXA-48
,
bla
VEB
,
bla
TEM-1
, and
bla
CMY-2
) revealed that FEP-taniborbactam at concentrations 1×, 2×, and 4× MIC displayed time-dependent reductions in the number of CFU/mL from 0 to 6 h, and at 4× MIC demonstrated bactericidal activity (3 log
10
reduction in CFU/mL at 24 h). Therefore, taniborbactam in combination with FEP was highly active against this diverse panel of
Enterobacterales
with
bla
OXA-48
and represents a potential addition to our antibiotic arsenal.

IMPORTANCE

OXA-48-like β-lactamases are class D carbapenemases widespread in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
and other
Enterobacterales
and are associated with carbapenem treatment failures. As up to 80% of OXA-48-like positive isolates coproduce extended-spectrum β-lactamases, a combination of β-lactams with broad-spectrum β-lactamase inhibitors is required to counteract all OXA-48-producing strains effectively. Herein, we evaluated the activity of cefepime-taniborbactam against 50 clinical strains producing OXA-48. We report that adding taniborbactam shifted the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) toward cefepime’s susceptible range, restoring its antimicrobial activity. Notably, cefepime-taniborbactam MIC
50
/MIC
90
values (0.5/4 µg/mL) were comparable to ceftazidime-avibactam (0.5/1 µg/mL). Finally, time-kill assays revealed sustained bactericidal activity of cefepime-taniborbactam for up to 24 h. In conclusion, cefepime-taniborbactam will be a welcome addition to the antibiotic arsenal to combat
Enterobacterales
producing OXA-48.
Prescription charge policy acceptance among UK adults with and without long-term health conditions: a mixed-method survey
Authors: Readman Megan Rose , Polden Megan , Brighton Lisa , Oluseye Ayomide , Fairman Ian , Parkinson Ian , Parkinson Caroline , Giebel Clarissa 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesSince their introduction in 1952, per-prescribed item charges in England have continually risen. This study investigated the acceptability and impact of per-prescribed item charges, and awareness and use of initiatives designed to reduce prescription charge financial burden (the prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) initiative), in people living with and without long-term health conditions (LTHCs) in the UK.DesignCross-sectional mixed-method survey of people with and without an LTHC across the UK.Participants381 people, 267 people with an LTHC and 114 people without an LTHC, participated.Outcome measuresAcceptability and impact of prescription charge policy, awareness and use of the PPC.ResultsOver half (53.2 %) of participants disagreed with current per-prescribed item charges. In most domains, the impact of prescription charges did not differ between people with and without LTHCs. However, people with LTHCs were more likely to report financial burden and deviate from prescribed medication regimes. 35.29% of respondents were aware of the PPC, with people with LTHCs being more likely to be aware of and use this initiative. Qualitative findings indicate perceived inequalities in current policy with themes including (1) the need for re-evaluation; (2) the burden of prescription charges; (3) inconsistencies and inequalities in current policy; and (4) positive reflections of prescription charge policy.ConclusionsInconsistencies in current policy and a lack of public support may suggest that a re-evaluation of current policy is required. The lack of difference in the impact of prescription charge policy between people with and without LTHCs indicates that the effects of such policy are not constrained to people with LTHCs. Thus, policy amendments would benefit the wider population. Systematic efforts to increase awareness of the PPC and reduce inequalities in medical exemption criteria are suggested.Trial registration numberStudy protocol and analysis strategy are preregistered on Open Science Framework (https://shorturl.at/IrvnS).
Psychosocial experiences of mothers of preterm babies admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of the Upper East Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga: a descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Daliri Dennis Bomansang , Laari Timothy Tienbia , Ayine Alice Atiem , Dei-Asamoa Richard , Volematome Bertha Gibil , Bogee Gillian , Apo-Era Miranda Abisiba , Oppong Solomon Akorley , Abagye Nancy , Jarbaab Maclean , Amoah Moses Abangba , Afaya Agani 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe postnatal period often presents significant psychological and social distress for mothers, a burden that is potentially heightened by having a preterm baby. Mothers of preterm babies face various psychosocial challenges that need to be explored. While some studies have explored the experiences of mothers of preterm babies, there is a need for more context-specific research to inform targeted interventions, especially in resource-constrained settings like northern Ghana. This study aimed to explore the psychosocial experiences of mothers of preterm babies admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of the Upper East Regional Hospital, Ghana.MethodsThis descriptive phenomenological study was conducted in the NICU of the Upper East Regional Hospital in Ghana. Thirteen mothers of preterm babies were purposively sampled and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method.ResultsThree themes emerged namely, mothers’ emotional experience, challenges encountered at the NICU and coping strategies. The mothers expressed a range of emotions, from indifference to profound sadness, disbelief, fear and worry, on realising their babies were preterm. Challenges within the NICU were financial constraints and poor NICU facilities while coping strategies included reliance on God, self-reliance and support from family and nurses.ConclusionMothers of preterm babies in the NICU experience significant emotional distress and face numerous challenges. Comprehensive support programmes that address financial, emotional and practical needs are essential to improve outcomes for both mothers and their preterm babies.
Early intravenous high-dose vitamin C in postcardiac arrest shock (VICEPAC): study protocol for a randomised, single-blind, open-label, multicentre, controlled trial
Authors: Chelly Jonathan , Peres Noemie , Sboui Ghada , Maizel Julien , Beuzelin Marion , Nigeon Olivier , Preau Sebastien , Vong Ly Van Phach , Tamion Fabienne , Lambiotte Fabien , Deye Nicolas , Bertrand Thibaut , Behal Hélène , Ducros Laurent , Vinsonneau Christophe 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe high incidence of morbidity and mortality associated with the post-cardiac arrest (CA) period highlights the need for novel therapeutic interventions to improve the outcome of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). The aim of this study is to assess the ability of high-dose intravenous vitamin C (Vit-C) to improve post-CA shock.Methods and analysisThis is a single-blind, open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial, involving 234 OHCA patients with post-CA shock planned to be enrolled in 10 French ICUs. Patients will be randomised to receive standard-of-care (SOC) or SOC with early high-dose intravenous Vit-C administration (200 mg/kg per day, within 6 hours after return of spontaneous circulation, for 3 days). The primary endpoint is the cumulative incidence of vasopressor withdrawal at 72 hours after enrolment, with death considered as a competing event. The main secondary endpoints are neurological outcome, mortality due to refractory shock, vasopressor-free days and organ failure monitored by the sequential organ failure assessment score.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol was approved by a French Ethics Committee (EC) on 21 February 2023 (Comité de Protection des Personnes Ile de France 1, Paris, France). Due to the short enrolment period to avoid any delay in treatment, the EC approved the study inclusion before informed consent was obtained. As soon as possible, patient and their relative will be asked for their deferred informed consent. The data from the study will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.Trial registration numberNCT05817851.
Alterations in anterior lens capsule structure and LTBP-2 expression in primary angle-closure glaucoma
Authors: Tian Xiaofeng , Yuan Liyun , Li Liangpin , Yuan Xiaoyong 
Published: September 2024

Objective
This study investigated the role of latent-transforming growth factor β-binding protein 2 (LTBP-2) in primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) by analysing its expression and the ultrastructure of the anterior lens capsule in PACG patients with age-related cataract (ARC).

Methods
Tissue samples of the anterior lens capsule were collected from patients undergoing cataract phacoemulsification surgery. Patients in the experimental group were diagnosed with primary angle-closure (PAC) combined with ARC (PAC+ARC) and PACG combined with ARC (PACG+ARC). The control group consisted of patients with only ARC. The techniques used included scanning electron microscopy, real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Results
Ultrastructural analysis revealed disordered connections in PAC+ARC, loose connections in PACG+ARC and well-ordered connections in ARC. RT-qPCR and western blotting showed significantly lower LTBP-2 mRNA and protein expression in PAC+ARC and PACG+ARC than in ARC, with PAC+ARC having the lowest levels. Immunofluorescence confirmed these findings, showing varying LTBP-2 fluorescence intensities across groups.

Conclusion
The study identified ultrastructural changes in the anterior lens capsules in PACG accompanied by reduced LTBP-2 expression, especially in PAC+ARC patients. This suggests a potential role for LTBP-2 in PACG development, warranting further investigation.
Effectiveness of a video-based intervention to improve the interpersonal communication skills of public health midwives in a district of Sri Lanka: a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Prasanna S A S , Abeysena H T C S , Alagiyawanna M A A P 
Published: September 2024

ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of a video-based intervention, the V-BIS, in improving the interpersonal communication skills (IPCS) of public health midwives (PHMs).DesignA cluster randomised trial.SettingThe setting is a Medical Officer of Health (MOH) area, the district’s basic administrative unit in public health. The study was conducted at six MOH areas/clusters in a district of Sri Lanka between February and July 2020.ParticipantsPHMs who completed 6 months of working in the same setting were recruited.InterventionThe V-BIS intervention is a video-based intervention designed to improve the IPCS of PHMs.Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the proportion of PHMs having good IPCS 1 month after the intervention. The secondary outcomes were (1) the proportion of PHMs having ‘good IPCS’ 3 months after the intervention and (2) the proportion of PHMs having ‘good knowledge of complementary feeding (CF)’ practices 1 month after the intervention.ResultsCompared with the control group, the intervention group improved their IPCS by 33.0% at 1 month and 18.3% at 3 months after the intervention. The observed differences in skills between the groups were statistically significant at 1 month (adjusted OR=14.00, 95% CI 4.9 to 40.1) and 3 months (adjusted OR=5.52, 95% CI 1.81 to 16.9). Compared with the control group, the intervention group did not significantly improve good knowledge of CF practices 1 month after the intervention (OR=2.61, 95% CI 0.65 to 10.53).ConclusionsThe V-BIS intervention effectively improves the IPCS of PHMs and can be used as a training intervention.Trial registration numberSLCTR/2020/006.
Role of universal health coverage in improving quality of breast cancer care: an international comparison study
Authors: Wang Minmin , Song Suhang , Jin Yinzi , Zheng Zhijie 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionBreast cancer is the most common and lethal cancer among women worldwide. Good quality cancer care is a key pillar in improving the survival rate and reducing the burden of this cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the current status and temporal trends in global breast cancer care and to identify the association between universal health coverage and quality of breast cancer care.MethodsA quality of care index for breast cancer was constructed using disease burden data from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 database. This index was evaluated and compared at global, regional and national level. The association between universal health coverage index and breast cancer quality of care index at national level was also explored.ResultsThe quality of breast cancer care improved from 1990 to 2019, and the disparity narrowed between countries at different development levels over the same period. The universal healthcare coverage index was positively associated with national breast cancer care quality. This finding was robust across countries at low and middle levels of development, as well as more developed countries.ConclusionsThe identified association between universal health coverage and breast cancer care highlight the key role of developing a high-quality and resilient healthcare system for improving breast cancer care. Then expanding the universal health coverage with inclusion of breast cancer care may help improving the breast cancer care quality and reduce the disproportionate mortality due to breast cancer in low social development countries.
Effect of living in well-insulated warm houses on hypertension and cardiovascular diseases based on a nationwide epidemiological survey in Japan: a modelling and cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Umishio Wataru , Ikaga Toshiharu , Kario Kazuomi , Fujino Yoshihisa , Kagi Naoki , Suzuki Masaru , Ando Shintaro , Saeki Keigo , Murakami Shuzo 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are more prevalent in colder homes, partly due to cold-induced high blood pressure (BP). While thermal insulation and heating are rational strategies to mitigate cold exposure, the high initial and running costs pose significant barriers. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of living in well-insulated warm houses.MethodsAn economic model was developed based on the indoor temperature–BP and BP–CVDs relationships. Five scenarios were outlined: a base scenario (Scenario 0: the most prevalent thermal insulation level (Grade 2) and indoor temperature (15°C) in Japan), two scenarios of upgrading insulation and living in warm houses after age 40 years (Scenario 1–1: Grade 4 & 18°C and Scenario 1–2: Grade 6 & 21°C), and two scenarios of retrofitting insulation of entire houses and living in warm houses after age 60 years (Scenario 2–1: Grade 4 & 18°C and Scenario 2–2: Grade 6 & 21°C). Monte Carlo simulations for 100 000 virtual husband–wife pairs were conducted to investigate quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and life-cycle costs for thermal insulation work, heating and medical treatments.ResultsRegarding the upgrading insulation scenarios, compared with Scenario 0, Scenarios 1–1 and 1–2 increased the life-cycle cost by Japanese yen (JPY) 0.26 and JPY0.84 million, respectively, while extending the combined healthy life expectancy of a husband and wife by 0.31 and 0.48 QALYs. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were below the threshold value of JPY5 million/QALY gained. Regarding the retrofitting insulation scenarios, probabilistic sensitivity analyses showed that Scenario 2–2 emerged as the most cost-effective option when the willingness to pay reached JPY6.5 million or more, which is above the threshold.ConclusionsUpgrading insulation and residing in warmer homes could be cost-effective strategies. When conducting insulation retrofitting, lower-cost methods such as partial insulation retrofitting should be considered. These findings support decision-making for residents and policymakers.
Physical and emotional status, quality of life and activities of daily living in terminal cancer: prospective cohort study
Authors: Ozeki Shinya , Tatematsu Noriatsu , Sugiura Hideshi 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivePhysical functioning (PF), emotional functioning (EF), overall quality of life (QOL) and activities of daily living (ADL) such as walking and toilet transfer are the primary outcomes of dignity in patients with terminal cancer. However, few studies have investigated the association of PF, EF and overall QOL with ADL based on end-of-life stages in patients with cancer who are receiving at-home palliative care.MethodsThis prospective cohort study included 88 patients with terminal cancer receiving home-based rehabilitation as part of their home-based palliative care at the Mariana Home Nursing Station (Nagoya-city, Aichi, Japan). The variables were measured at 4 and 2 weeks before death of patients. PF, EF and overall QOL scores were assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 15 Palliative Care and ADL were assessed using the Functional Independence Measure-motor items. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the association, considering the effect of physical symptoms.ResultsPF and overall QOL scores at 4 and 2 weeks before death were significantly associated with toilet transfer and walking scores, even after considering the influence of physical symptoms. EF scores were significantly associated with toilet transfer and walking scores 4 weeks before death, but not 2 weeks before death.ConclusionsIn addition to managing physical symptoms, supporting ADL such as walking and toilet transfer is necessary to maintain PF, EF and overall QOL in patients with terminal cancer receiving home-based palliative care. This may help preserve their dignity, even in deteriorating general condition.
How to Define In-Vitro Fertilization Success: A Delphi Consensus among China Experts
Authors: Li Rong , Wang Yuanyuan ,   China Expert Suggestions Group on the definition of in-vitro fertilization success
Published: September 2024

Background: A Delphi consensus was conducted to formulate an expert opinion on the definition of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) success, to provide a reference basis for clinical practice. Methods: Chinese experts in assisted reproductive technology (ART) were surveyed using the Delphi method. Based on the literature related to IVF success, eight experts developed a framework of statements and items. A questionnaire was then distributed to 23 experts to canvas their opinions on these statements. If consensus was not achieved, the statement was revised and revoted upon until a consensus was reached. Results: Consensus was reached for 19 statements related to the definition of IVF success, the most relevant of which are summarized as follows: (1) Goal of IVF treatment ([Formula: see text] statement): to attain a healthy live birth in the shortest possible time and with the lowest possible risks; (2) Definition of IVF success ([Formula: see text] statements): effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of IVF treatment should be included in the definition of success, with the cumulative live birth rate per ovarian stimulation cycle within 2 years being a performance indicator (PI) of success, and IVF success should be measured from a patient-centered perspective, including the patient’s burden and satisfaction. (3) Assurance of IVF success ([Formula: see text] statements): to provide evidence-based treatment and avoid the introduction of IVF add-ons into routine clinical practice without any clear evidence of benefit, optimize treatment quality by establishing and monitoring key PIs, and improving quality control systems. (4) Hurdles of IVF success ([Formula: see text] statements): cycle cancellation before oocyte pickup and treatment discontinuation after failed cycles are hurdles of success to IVF. Conclusions: Based on the Delphi method, the expert opinion on the definition of IVF success has been formed, which could complement guidelines and may help improve treatment outcomes.
Ars :: Longa
Authors: Chan Paul 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
A standard interpretation of the Latin phrase “Ars longa, vita brevis” is that it takes a long time to master an art or technology. Another interpretation is that art lasts, longer even than a human life. Paul Chan suggests a third possibility: that art extends life itself. To support this reading, he discusses the work of Chris Marker and the artist duo Arakawa and Gins, as well as describing experiences from his own private research in the domain of artificial intelligence. Hellenistic mathematicians Archimedes and Eratosthenes, who fused poetry with calculation to capture the “unbounded” or “infinite,” are invoked through the work of the scholar Reviel Netz. Naturally, Faust appears.
Counterpublics in Search of Infrastructures: Lessons from German Anti-Antisemitism
Authors: Lütticken Sven 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Loyalty to Israel has been described as a fundamental aim of the German state (a Staatsräson), and a stifling ideological consensus tars virtually any criticism of Zionism with the brush of “antisemitism.” Some on the Left, belonging to the so-called Anti-German (antideutsche) movement, consider support for “the Jewish state” to be a way of atoning for German sins—an ideology it ironically shares with some of the most outspoken of German nationalists. The result? Accusations and cancellations are visited on academics and artists; under McCarthyite conditions, the public sphere withers. “Counterpublics in Search of Infrastructures” analyzes some of the new kinds of counterpublicness that have emerged in response, particularly on social-media apps. The article considers historical theorizations of the counterpublic in order to address contemporary conditions and challenges. Discussing artistic and academic groups on social media as well as projects in exhibition spaces, it culminates in an inquiry into the notion of abstraction, both in accounts of the public sphere as consisting of abstract legal persons—as embodied by the male white bourgeois—and as certain theorizations of antisemitism as a phobic rejection of capitalist exchange value. Now that the dominant discourse once again pits property-owning and rights-bearing white subjects against racialized and dehumanized others, we need to ask: How can abstraction be performed otherwise? What are the kinds of relations that can enable a qualitatively different forms of publicness?