bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of Omalizumab for Pediatric Asthma After US Food and Drug Administration Expanded Indications
Authors: Deshmukh Anjali D. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Tsacogianis Theodore , Rome Benjamin N. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTPurposeResearch and regulatory approval for pediatric uses of prescription drugs often lag years after adult approvals, during which time substantial off‐label use of medications in children can occur. We evaluated whether US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory actions affected the pediatric use of omalizumab, a biologic drug used to treat asthma.MethodsIn this serial cross‐sectional study, we identified quarterly cohorts of children (0–18 years) with moderate‐to‐severe asthma within two large national claims databases of those with commercial insurance and Medicaid from 2003 to 2019. Using an interrupted time‐series analysis, we fit segmented linear regression models to identify changes in the incidence of omalizumab use in 6–11‐year‐old children compared with 12–18‐year‐olds after two time points: (1) 2009Q3 when an FDA advisory committee voted against use for 6–11‐year‐old children and (2) 2016Q2 when FDA expanded omalizumab's labeling to include 6–11‐year‐old children.ResultsWe identified 9298 new pediatric omalizumab users (84% Medicaid). Among 6–11‐year‐old children, the incidence of omalizumab use did not change following the FDA's initial review of evidence in 2009 and increased after 2016 Q2 FDA approval for this age group in both Medicaid (58 per 100 000 children with asthma, 95% confidence interval [CI] 27–89, p < 0.001) and commercial insurance (57 per 100 000, 95% CI 21–94, p = 0.003) compared with 12–18‐year‐old children.ConclusionsThe use of omalizumab among asthmatic children aged 6–11 years remained steady after FDA advisory committee concerns in 2009 and increased after FDA expanded the indication to include this population in 2016. Additional market incentives may help to ensure the timely generation of evidence and regulatory approval of medications for children.
The Effects of Removing the Requirement for Prior Reimbursement Approval on Anticoagulant Use in Ireland: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Scannell M. , Burton E. , Kearney P. M. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTPurposePrior approval for reimbursement is a policy of cost containment while ensuring oversight and governance of medicines. It has been employed in Ireland to address financial challenges due to the shift from warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Studies assessing the effectiveness of this policy are limited. Thus, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of prior approval for reimbursement of DOACs (apixaban, rivaroxaban) as a cost containment policy in Ireland.MethodsThe Irish Health Service Executive‐Primary Care Reimbursement Service database was used in this cross‐sectional study. We examined the prescribing frequencies and associated costs of the oral anticoagulants; [(OACs) apixaban, rivaroxaban and warfarin] listed in the top 100 most frequently prescribed drugs, between 2018 and 2021. Time series negative binomial regression was used to assess the impact of removing the approval requirement of apixaban in September 2019 followed by the other DOACs in November 2020.ResultsThe prescribing frequency of OACs increased by almost 20% from 2018 to 2021. This study showed there were significant differences in the proportion of OACs prescribed among the Community Drug Schemes. A statistically significant decreased use of apixaban (< 1%, p < 0.05) occurred when prior approval was removed for all DOACs.ConclusionsThe removal of prior approval for reimbursement of DOACs in Ireland had a minimal impact on the prescribing frequency trends of the OACs. Future use of these potentially useful policies by healthcare systems requires careful consideration of drug type, approval criteria and length of time the policy remains in place to minimise any negative effects associated with their use.
A multifunctional superhydrophobic phase‐change photothermal coating for concrete anti‐icing
Authors: Li Shuai , Tan Yiqiu , Li Song , Xiao Andong 
Published: October 2024

AbstractSuperhydrophobic coatings meet the urgent need for anti‐icing infrastructure in low‐temperature environments but suffer limited functionality and easy failure. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with highly efficient photothermal conversion properties can address these issues when endowed with superhydrophobicity. However, CNTs face challenges in modification and functional failure without light. This study proposes a simple strategy to endow CNTs with superhydrophobic and phase‐change properties, affording CNTs with superhydrophobic photothermal phase‐change functions. The phase‐change superhydrophobic photothermal CNT (PSC) particle size distribution was optimized to 4–6 μm, effectively reducing CNT agglomeration tendency. The PSC exhibited good phase‐change enthalpy, with a 53% phase‐change material adsorption rate. Superhydrophobic coatings based on PSC were prepared via a two‐step method. The primer performed best with a 10% silicon carbide to epoxy resin mass ratio. Considering performance and economy, optimal coating performance occurred with 100 mg of PSC in the topcoat. The PSC coating achieved a 156.7° contact angle and a rolling angle of only 3.4°. It can rapidly warm from −10 to 50 °C under one solar intensity. The coating exhibits excellent robustness across extreme environments, extending droplet freezing time by 10‐fold at −10 °C and quickly melting under one sun intensity. This research will further advance the development of CNT‐based superhydrophobic photothermal coatings and promote their application in infrastructure sectors, particularly for cement concrete. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring children's preferences for graphic symbols to represent pain‐related words
Authors: Johnson Ensa , Swanepoel Nina , Thunberg Gunilla 
Published: October 2024

AbstractChildren who are hospitalized may sometimes not be able to communicate verbally to self‐report their pain or other symptoms due to medical conditions, medical interventions, or communication difficulties. As such, these children may need other means, such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies, in this case, graphic symbols, to express their pain‐related experiences and receive applicable treatment. Choosing suitable graphic symbols to represent pain‐related words contributes to the effective use and implementation of visual support. This study explored the preferences of 6.0–9.11‐year‐old (years; months) children with typical development regarding graphic symbols to represent pain‐related words. These symbols were selected from two commonly used and widespread symbol resources: Picture Communication Symbols (PCS®) and Aragonese Portal of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ARASAAC) symbols. A descriptive, quantitative study design was employed, including a total of 30 typically developed South African children. Data were collected by means of an electronic questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Probability values were determined and predictions, as well as inferences, were implemented. The results showed that the children preferred ARASAAC symbols to represent most pain‐related words (p < 0.001). It is important to consider stakeholders' (in this case, children's) input on their preferences in designing communication support to enable participation during the clinical decision‐making process.
A dose‐adjusted, open‐label, pilot study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of STC3141 in critically ill patients with sepsis
Authors: Bellomo Rinaldo , Patava John , Van Lancker Ruth , Layios Nathalie , Peetermans Marijke , Plummer Mark , Attou Rachid , McNamara Robert , Udy Andrew , Wibrow Bradley , Deane Adam , Litton Edward , Tanudji Marcel , Su Fuhong , Zhong Zhang , Shi Linda , Ning Li 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIncreased circulating histones correlate with sepsis severity and are a potential therapeutic target. Pre‐clinical studies showed benefit with a histone‐neutralizing polyanion molecule (STC3141). We aimed to investigate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of STC3141 in critically ill patients with sepsis. We studied 26 patients with sepsis divided into four cohorts of one, five, ten, and ten subjects, respectively. We conducted a dose‐adjusted, open‐label study to determine the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of STC3141 administered as an IV infusion for up to 72 h, with rate adjusted to estimated creatinine clearance. Four steady‐state concentrations were targeted. Twenty of the 26 subjects (77%) in the study experienced at least one adverse event (AE). The most frequently reported study drug‐related AE was a mildly prolonged aPTT (four events). Only one AE (pulmonary hemorrhage) led to discontinuation of the drug. After excluding patients receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT) patients, clearance ranged from 3.3 to 4.2 L/h across cohorts and was essentially completely renal in nature. Half‐life values ranged from 5 to 7 h. The mean (±SD) terminal half‐life for non‐RRT subjects and for whom it was possible to calculate was approximately 9 (±4.77) h but increased to 19 (±7.94) h for subjects on RRT. Overall, 18 (69.2%) patients completed the study to day eight in the ICU, and 22 (84.6%) survived to 28 days. STC3141 administration appeared to have an acceptable degree of safety and tolerability and expected pharmacokinetics. Cautious, larger randomized efficacy trials in sepsis appear justified.
A novel case of simultaneous tracheal stenting and endobronchial valve (EBV) deployment for tracheal stenosis and persistent air leak guided by an endobronchial collateral ventilation assessment system and digital chest drain in malignant esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Gan Eugene MingJin , Leong Carrie Kah‐Lai 
Published: October 2024

AbstractPersistent air leak may complicate malignant disease of the thorax, causing significant morbidity and mortality. A 51‐year‐old male with a 30‐pack‐year history of smoking was diagnosed with metastatic esophageal carcinoma with invasion into the right upper lobe of the lung. He developed a large right hydropneumothorax complicated by empyema leading to persistent air leak despite the insertion of two chest drains. Computed Tomography imaging with 3‐dimensional reconstruction showed severe tracheal compression from the enlarging esophageal tumour as well as bronchopleural fistulas in the right upper lobe. Rigid bronchoscopy with metallic tracheal stenting was performed. This was followed by localization and quantification of air leak with an endobronchial collateral ventilation assessment system and a digital chest drain to guide endobronchial valve placement, in a single operative procedure. This novel combination of interventional bronchoscopy techniques enabled successful transition to an ambulatory chest drain and subsequent hospital discharge.
Insight into the Coordination Environment of Ru Single‐Atom for Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Zhang Zhen‐Yu , Su Dong‐Meng , Xie Tao 
Published: October 2024

AbstractDry reforming of methane (DRM), a pivotal process for converting greenhouse gases into syngas is demanding rationally designed catalysts with high stability and ideal catalytic performance for industrial applications due to its stability of reactant molecules and characteristic of carbon deposition. However, the mechanistic understanding of how the coordination environment of the metal in a single‐atom catalytic system may influence the catalytic performance remains limited. In this work, high‐ and low‐coordinating Ru‐based (RuHC and RuLC) catalysts with distinct Ru‐O coordination numbers are prepared using one‐pot and two‐step methods. The difference in the stability (12.3% and negligible deactivation during 20 h test for RuLC and RuHC catalysts respectively) and selectivity (0.57 and 0.37 of H2/CO ratio) brought by the coordination environment signified the structure‐function relationship of single‐atom catalysts in DRM. The impact of the structure on the properties is systematically investigated by thorough structural and operando characterization as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The findings contribute to the optimal design of single‐atom catalysts for DRM, offering a theoretical basis for industrial catalyst development and the potential to improve the process's environmental impact.
Revitalizing Lithium Metal Batteries: Strategies for Tackling Dead Lithium Formation and Reactivation
Authors: Wei Zengwu , Wang Xue , Zhou Mingjiong , Papović Snežana , Zheng Kun , Świerczek Konrad , Wu Jinghua , Xin Xing 
Published: October 2024

AbstractLithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) are among the most promising candidates for future battery technology due to their high theoretical capacity and energy density. However, the formation of dendritic Li, characterized by needle‐like structures, poses serious safety issues. To address this, numerous methods are developed to prevent Li dendrite formation. Another significant challenge in LMBs is the formation of inactive Li, known as dead Li, which significantly impacts their Coulombic efficiency and overall performance. This review explores the issues surrounding dead Li in LMBs, specifically focusing on electrically isolated Li metal and the repeatedly generated solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Advanced techniques for characterizing inactive Li are discussed, alongside various strategies designed to activate or suppress dead Li, thus restoring battery capacity. The review summarizes recent advancements in research related to the activation, reuse, and prevention of dead Li, offering valuable insights for enhancing the efficiency and safety of LMBs. This comprehensive overview provides fundamental guidance for the practical application of Li metal anodes and similar metal batteries.
Organic Dye Molecule Intercalated Prussian Blue for Simultaneously Enhancing Coloration Efficiency and Energy Storage Capacity in Electrochromic Battery
Authors: Xu Ming , Wu Tianhui , Yin Ke , Li Lei , Li Yuhang , Zhao Xiaoyu , Lu Li , Gu Jianmin , Wang Desong 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe dual‐functional device combining electrochromic properties and energy storage has gained numerous attentions in the field of energy‐saving smart electronics. However, achieving simultaneous optimization of coloration efficiency and energy storage capacity of materials poses a significant challenge. This study presents a novel approach by incorporating methyl orange into Prussian blue channels (PB‐MO films) to adjust the internal electronic structure of Prussian blue. This modification allows the active layer to simultaneously improve the electrochromic and energy storage performance. The introduction of methyl orange not only alters the ratio of Fe3+/Fe2+ within the framework through the coordination reaction of Fe3+ with methyl orange, but also improves the reaction kinetics after intercalating organic dye molecules, including charge transfer resistance, diffusion capability of ions and capacitive contribution. The PB‐MO films demonstrate remarkable properties: high optical contrast (81.4% at 670 nm), excellent coloration efficiency (265 cm2 C−1), and significant specific capacity (84 mAh m−2 at 0.05 A m−2), outperforming pure PB films. The PB‐MO films are ideally suited for applications in displays and intelligent energy storage fields, boasting both high coloration efficiency and substantial energy storage capacity, thus advancing promote the development of dual‐functional electrochromic devices.
A Liquid Chromatography‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry Bioanalytical Method Development and Validation for the Determination of Pacritinib in Plasma
Authors: Kumar Mulamraju Aruna , Bangaraiah Pagala 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThe primary objective of the current work is to establish and verify an accurate and linear liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry procedure for quantifying Pacritinib. An effective chromatographic resolution was obtained using the Hypersil Gold (50 × 4.6 mm, 2.1 µm) C18 column. The mobile phase is a mixture of methanol, 0.1% formic acid, and acetonitrile in the proportion of 20:15:65 (%v/v/v). The procedure involved closely monitoring executed ionic transitions of m/z 473.1/376.2 for Pacritinib and 584.26/101.1 for Brigatinib internal standard in multiple reaction monitoring mode. A strong correlation value (r2) of 0.9997 is associated with the linear plot regression line, which can be represented as y = 0.0001x − 0.0008. The relative standard deviation (RSD) results for the matrix effect were 3.63% and 3.57%, respectively, when the quality control (QC) level was low and high, respectively. Over the course of the study, the percentage average recoveries for Pacritinib were found to be 103.27% in high QC, 97.59% in medium QC, and 94.28% in low QC, respectively. The values that were obtained for the QC samples (0.378, 1.058, 7.56, and 11.34 µg/mL) varied from 2.00% to 4.03%. The developed method was useful for evaluating Pacritinib in biological samples for the purposes of QC, forensics, and bioavailability investigations for individuals.
Dams in intrastate ethnic conflict: A comparison of Turkey and Ethiopia
Authors: Bezahler Alex 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWhy do dams exacerbate ethnic conflict in Turkey but not in Ethiopia? This paper analyzes the impacts of a growing push to develop water resources through hydroelectric dams, which promise clean energy, jobs, and economic opportunities. Yet dam building also causes environmental degradation, mass relocation, the flooding of historical sites, and long‐lasting cultural impacts. This paper focuses on how dams, as an extension of the state, can increase ethnic tensions by decreasing their autonomy and challenging their cultural practices, ultimately exacerbating violence. A comparison of two instances of large‐scale dam building in Ethiopia and Turkey during conflict illustrates various factors that contribute to ethnic tensions between minority groups. In Turkey, dams are weaponized against the Kurdish population, deepening ethnic conflict as the state asserts itself and a state‐centered national consciousness into a region historically wary of Turkish nation‐building. In Ethiopia, dam‐building, while framed in similar language as it is in Turkey, avoids heightening ethnic conflict because dams are seen as unifying the country rather than homogenizing ethnic minorities in rural areas. This paper argues that ethnic conflict is exacerbated when both (1) damming disproportionately targets one ethnic group and (2) when the targeted population is unable to access alternative mechanisms to air grievances. In developing the proposed theory, more insight can be gained into water, conflict, and dam‐building in conflict‐prone areas in fragile political positions. From a policy perspective, these findings indicate that more scrutiny over dams in such contexts is necessary for the protection of minority populations.
A Mixed Aryl/Amide Complex of Iron(II)
Authors: Wolf Robert M. , Bühler Raphael , Napoli Fabrizio E. , Stephan Johannes , Gemel Christian , Fischer Roland A. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe combined incorporation of a labile and a stabilizing ligand in a metal‐organic precursor is of interest for the synthesis of low valent ligated (hetero)metallic clusters. The heteroleptic aryl/amide iron (II) complex [Fe2(Mes)2(BTSA)2] (1) was synthesized by equimolar mixing of [Fe2(Mes)4] with [Fe2(BTSA)4]. (VT)‐NMR‐, UV‐Vis‐ and SC‐XRD‐analysis combined with DFT calculations revealed a dimeric structure with terminal bis(trimethylsilyl)amide‐ and bridging mesityl‐ligands in solution and as well in the solid phase. The treatment of [Fe2(BTSA)4] with the carbenoid group 13 metallo‐ligand GaCp* is known to yield simply adducts. In contrast, monitoring the reactions of [Fe2(Mes)4] and [Fe2(Mes)2(BTSA)2] (1) with GaCp* by liquid injection field desorption mass spectrometry (LIFDI‐MS) suggest formation of a broader variety of bimetallic Fe−Ga‐species with iron formally reduced to iron (I) or iron (0). However, the product distribution obtained using the heteroleptic compound 1 indicates combined reactivity of the homoleptic congeners by showing larger species with variations of Fe/Ga ratios towards the formation of Fe/Ga clusters. This blended behavior is assigned to the more labile mesityl ligand and the more stabilizing BTSA‐ligand.
Why and How to Explore Rule of Law Narratives. Introduction
Authors: Lorenz Astrid , Anders Lisa H. , Müller Dietmar , Němec Jan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractNarratives are highly relevant for policymaking and the functioning of institutions, including rule of law arrangements. They inform, influence and serve to justify political action, as well as mobilise support. However, narratives used in parliaments have received little attention in analyses of the rule of law, which tend to focus on institutions such as the law itself and its structure. In this introduction to the volume “Narrating the Rule of Law”, we explain why and how we analyse and compare narratives of the rule of law in parliaments. Although most political entities across the globe declare the rule of law as one of their guiding principles, they articulate different ideas of what the rule of law is, what purposes it serves, what elements it comprises and how it relates to democracy. Covering 30 years of parliamentary debates on rule-of-law-related issues in five countries, this case-sensitive empirical study analyses cross-national differences and traces changes over time.
Lessons Learned and Policy Recommendations
Authors: Lorenz Astrid , Anders Lisa H. , Müller Dietmar , Němec Jan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis chapter summarises the main findings of the study “Narrating the Rule of Law” with respect to national similarities and differences, temporal patterns and patterns of politicians’ rhetoric. A liberal model of the rule of law was supported in all parliaments, especially in Czechia. However, opposition parties repeatedly accused the ruling majorities of violating the rule of law. Controversies emerged earlier in Romania and Slovakia, while the rhetorical divide between government and opposition was much more pronounced in Hungary and Poland after 2010 and 2015. One-sided and diverging narratives were related to country-specific paths of reform and counter-reform. We also discuss the implications of the findings for theory-building and provide policy recommendations. We call, inter alia, for putting more scholarly attention on the controversial aspects around the prohibition of retroactive action. We also suggest building stronger ties with and among parliaments. These share many narratives on the rule of law, e.g. the need to respect the constitution and criticism of tendencies of centralising power.
South Africa: COVID-19 Learning Losses and Attempts at Recovery in a Poorly Performing and Unequal Education System
Authors: van der Berg Servaas , Böhmer Bianca 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected education in South Africa. School closures, rotational timetabling, remote learning challenges and higher absenteeism compounded educational disparities. PIRLS 2021 results demonstrate significant learning loss in Grade 4 reading achievement, with a decline of 31 PIRLS points since 2016, equivalent to 50–60% of a year’s learning. The proportion of extremely low performers doubled to over a quarter. Socio-economically disadvantaged students were disproportionately affected. Pandemic-induced curriculum adaptations and lenient promotion policies accelerated student progression but failed to address learning deficits, raising concerns about the affected cohorts’ educational and labour market prospects. Insufficient funding and coordination of targeted recovery strategies hinder learning recovery.