bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predictors of post‐operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation in pediatric patients with complete atrioventricular canal defects
Authors: Freeman Kaitlyn , Caris Elizabeth , Schultz Amy H. , Tressel William , Kronmal Richard , Buddhe Sujatha 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundIn infants with complete atrioventricular canal (CAVC) defects, post‐operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (LAVVR) is a known major cause of morbidity and mortality and a common indication for re‐operation. However, there is scarce data to identify risk factors for poor outcomes. Our study aims to find echocardiographic characteristics that predict post‐operative LAVVR at discharge and 1‐year follow‐up.MethodsRetrospective cohort study of patients with initial CAVC repair at our hospital who were followed for 1 year between 2013 and 2022. Patients with major co‐morbid conditions were excluded. Serial echocardiograms were reviewed. Anatomic details, quantitative and qualitative measure of LAVVR including the number of regurgitant jets, regurgitant jet length and vena contracta width, and ventricular function were collected. The time points measured include pre‐operative transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), post‐operative transesophageal echocardiogram (PO‐TEE), routine protocol based post‐operative day 1 (POD1) TTE, discharge TTE and 1‐year post‐operative (1yPO) TTE. Paired t‐tests, chi‐square analysis, and linear regression analysis were performed comparing measured variables to LAVVR outcomes.ResultsFifty‐two patients were included; 92% had Trisomy 21. The majority were classified as Rastelli A (71%), others Rastelli C (29%). Only two patients had moderate or greater LAVVR pre‐operatively. The mean age at repair was 125 ± 44 days. Pre‐operative LAVVR was the only significant predictor of LAVVR severity at 1 year after backward stepwise regression.Of those with < moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE, 20% had worsening to ≥ moderate at discharge, but only 9% remained that way at 1 year. Of those with ≥ moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE, 40% improved to < moderate by 1 year. Two patients who worsened at 1 year, both secondary to likely cleft suture dehiscence. Only one patient required reoperation in the immediate post‐operative period secondary to severe LAVVR due to suture dehiscence. Routine protocol‐based POD1 echo did not have any association with altered outcomes.ConclusionPre‐operative LAVVR was the only significant predictor of LAVVR severity at 1 year. A significant percentage (40%) of patient with ≥ moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE improved to < moderate by 1 year. Furthermore, routine protocol‐based POD1 echo did not have any association with altered outcomes.
Significantly improved mechanical properties of mullite ceramics by adding AlOOH with different sizes and morphologies
Authors: Teng Liyang , Wen Jue , Yu Jiarui , Zhang Xianlong , Wu Xueping , Xiao Kesong , Wang Kui , Jiang Ying 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMullite ceramics with high purity and toughness were prepared by hot‐press sintering of pyrophyllite at 1300°C using AlOOH nanomaterials with different sizes and morphologies (nanoparticles, nanorods, nanoflakes, and micro‐sized sea urchin–like) as additives. Among the four types of AOOH additives, the incorporation of nanoflakes and sea urchins resulted in the formation of a relatively uniformly distributed and tightly packed microstructure within the ceramics, which significantly improved the density and mechanical properties of the ceramic materials. Compared to nano‐sized AlOOH, the addition of micron‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH could produce mullite ceramics with best purity and flexural strength. The flexural strength and fracture toughness of ceramics prepared from micro‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH and pyrophyllite reach 427.34 ± 1.99 MPa and 4.68 ± .31 MPa m1/2, respectively. During the ball milling process, the originally micron‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH particles were broken down into micro‐ and nano‐sized AlOOH particles. The resulted micron and nanoscale AlOOH particles exhibited synergistic and multi‐scale effects with pyrophyllite, which contributed to the formation of uniformly sized and densely arranged mullite crystals within the ceramics. Additionally, the bridging between the mullite crystals further improved the mechanical properties of the mullite ceramic material.
The effect of pretreatments on the drying of persimmon with infrared energy
Authors: Or Dilvin , Arkain Begüm , Kocabiyik Habib 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe effects of various pretreatments, including edible coatings, on drying kinetics and some physical quality parameters of persimmon varieties (Fuyu and Rojo Brillante) and differences between varieties were investigated. The experiments were conducted at an infrared radiation intensity of 1210 W m−2 and air velocity (v) of 1.5 m s−1. Drying time differed depending on pretreatments and varieties. Pretreatments generally shortened the Fuyu variety's drying time and increased the Rojo Brillante variety's drying time. Lower specific energy consumption and higher diffusion coefficient values were recorded for the Rojo Brillante variety compared to the Fuyu. In terms of quality parameters, the Fuyu variety generally obtained lower values for shrinkage. Rehydration rate was higher for the Rojo Brillante variety. Total color change was lower in the Rojo Brillante variety. Based on the pretreatments applied, xanthan gum gave better results in terms of operational parameters. In terms of quality parameters, ascorbic acid had better results for rehydration rate and shrinkage. For total color change, better results were obtained in arabic gum pretreatment. As a result, when an evaluation is made regarding variety differences and pretreatments applied, the Rojo Brillante variety can be recommended for drying.Practical applicationsPersimmon is a popular fruit in appearance, flavor, and rich nutritional content. The high moisture and sugar content in the fruit increases spoilage in a short time, making it difficult to consume in all seasons. For this reason, different preservation methods are being investigated to extend the shelf life. Sun drying and other drying methods developed as an alternative to these methods have many disadvantages. Different pretreatments prevent the negativities that occur in other drying methods. Especially, edible coatings can increase product quality by preserving color and appearance as well as controlling mass transfer, flavor, and aroma losses. This study investigated the effects of various pretreatments, including edible coatings, on drying kinetics and some physical quality parameters of persimmon varieties, as well the differences between varieties. Based on variety differences and pretreatments applied, the Rojo Brillante variety can be recommended for drying in terms of both processing and drying characteristics.
Sodium signal intensity of CSF using 1H‐guided 23Na‐MRI as a potential noninvasive biomarker in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kerl Hans‐Ulrich , Baazaoui Hakim , Herrmann Katrin , Adlung Anne , Ludwig Nadia K. , Hausner Lucrezia , Frölich Lutz , Schad Lothar , Groden Christoph , Mohamed Sherif A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackground and PurposeAlzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive decline and mnestic deficits. The pathophysiology of AD is not fully understood, which renders the development of accurate tools for early diagnosis and effective therapies exceedingly difficult. In this study, we investigated the use of 23Na‐MRI to measure the relative sodium signal intensities (rSSIs) in CSF in patients with AD and healthy controls.MethodsWe prospectively recruited 11 patients with biomarker‐diagnosed early‐stage AD, as well as 12 cognitively healthy age‐matched controls. All participants underwent 23Na‐MRI to measure rSSI. Statistical analyses were performed to compare CSF sodium signal intensities between groups and to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of the rSSI in the diagnosis of AD.ResultsRSSIs in CSF were significantly higher in AD patients (mean = 68.6% ± 7.7%) compared to healthy controls (mean = 56.9% ± 5.5%) (p < .001). There was also a significant negative correlation between rSSI in CSF and hippocampus and amygdala volumes (r = −.54 and −.49, p < .05) as well as a positive correlation with total CSF volumes (r = .81, p < .05). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed high diagnostic accuracy for rSSI in discriminating between AD patients and healthy controls (area under the curve = .94).ConclusionOur study provides evidence that rSSI in CSF is increased in AD patients in comparison to healthy controls. rSSI may serve as a potential marker for early detection and monitoring of disease progression. Larger, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings and to investigate the association between rSSI in CSF and the severity of cognitive impairment.
Validation of bedside manual versus automated measurements of brain arterial diameters from MR angiography
Authors: Garzon‐Mancera Nicolas D. , Khasiyev Farid , Del Brutto Victor J. , Spagnolo Allende Antonio J. , Wright Clinton B. , Elkind Mitchell , Rundek Tatjana , Del Brutto Oscar H. , Gutierrez Jose 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackground and PurposeBrain arterial luminal diameters are reliably measured with automated imaging software. Nonautomated imaging software alternatives such as a Picture Archiving Communication System are more common bedside tools used for manual measurement. This study is aimed at validating manual measurements against automated methods.MethodsWe randomly selected 600 participants from the Northern Manhattan Study (NOMAS) and 260 participants from the Atahualpa Project studied with 1.5 Tesla MR angiography. Using the Radiant measuring tool, three independent readers (general practitioner, neurology resident, and vascular neurologist) measured manually the diameter of arterial brain vessels. The same vessels were also measured by LKEB Automated Vessel Analysis (LAVA). We calculated the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of each rater's diameters versus those obtained with LAVA.ResultsThe ICC between diameters obtained by the general practitioner or the neurology resident compared to LAVA was excellent for both internal carotid arteries (ICA) and Basilar Arteries (BA) (ICC > .80 in all comparisons) in NOMAS. In the Atahualpa Project, ICC between diameters obtained by a vascular neurologist and LAVA was good for both ICA and BA (ICC > .60 in all comparisons). The ICCs for the measurements of the remaining arteries were moderate to poor.ConclusionResults suggest that manual measurements of ICA and BA diameters, but not MCA or ACA, are valid and could be used to identify dilated brain arteries at the bedside and for eventual selection of patients with dolichoectasia into clinical trials.
Handling conflict situations in psychosis inpatient care: Nursing staff experiences of the Interactive Approach model
Authors: Arturén Hanna , Zetherström Jenny , Sjöström Nils , Abrams Daniel , Johansson Lena 
Published: May 2024

Accessible SummaryWhat is known on the subject?

In inpatient wards, there is a risk that conflicts occur when nursing staff interact with psychotic patients.

The Interactive Approach (IA) model is an action‐based model, used in psychiatric settings, to manage conflict situations.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

The IA model can be used to improve communication between nursing staff and patients in numerous critical situations.

Using a structured risk scale to evaluate a conflict can be an effective way to guide action and sort out the different aspects of communication between nursing staff and psychotic patients.

What are the implications for practice?

The clarity of an action‐based model will help sort out which interventions are most likely to succeed in each conflict situation.

The IA model highlights the importance of understanding and strengthening the patient's perspective, being flexible for each individual patient, and providing the patient with clear information about the situation.

AbstractIntroductionThe Interactive Approach (IA) model is a structured management tool used to improve communication between caregivers and patients in psychiatric care settings.Aim/QuestionTo examine the nursing staff's experiences of the IA model. How do they use the interventions in conflict situations with psychotic patients?MethodA sample of nursing staff (n = 11) was recruited from three psychosis inpatient care units. Semi‐structured questions covered staff experiences of working with the problem‐solving interventions in the IA model. Transcribed data were analysed by qualitative content analysis.ResultsThree categories were defined: (1) ‘To apply a flexible approach' describes how staff tried to adapt to each patient and situation; (2) ‘Try to understand the person's inner world’ describes the importance of active listening and exploring the patient's concerns; and (3) ‘To communicate clearly’ relates to experiences of clear communication and the setting up of boundaries.DiscussionThe risk scale and training in communication skills helped the interaction between staff and patients in conflict situations. Different interventions were used with a focus on maintaining patient alliance.Implications for PracticeThe findings highlight the importance of educational efforts and practical training, to prevent violence and the use of coercive measures.
Pharmaceutical patents: Cathartic or inhibiting
Authors: Jha Ravinder 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe debate between patent rights of pharmaceutical firms and the rights of the poor to equal access to health is an old one. The basic purpose of any patent system that grants a temporary monopoly to an innovator is to stimulate innovation and investment in the production of the newly innovated goods and services, which in turn gives supernormal profits to the innovator. However, the equity considerations dictate the spread of this knowledge in the public domain. The dilemma of the patent system is that, in encouraging R&D, it prevents the diffusion of innovation and consequently creates a non‐competitive situation. This paper examines the impact of patent protection on the number of patent filings by the pharmaceutical companies in India after it signed the Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement and the trend in research and development expenditure by domestic firms. It questions the basis of this intellectual property right, especially, when a substantial amount of basic research is often carried out in the universities and federal funding is provided at the basic research and development level. It further investigates the success of various flexibilities provided under TRIPS which the Indian Patent Act has used and can potentially use, in comparison to other developed countries, to provide easy access to the medicines. The paper concludes by exploring other options available during public health emergencies and otherwise.
The Aguas Zarcas carbonaceous chondrite meteorite: Brecciation and aqueous alteration on the parent body
Authors: Kouvatsis I. , Cartwright J. A. , Hames W. E. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCM chondrites are samples from primitive water‐rich asteroids that formed early in the solar system; many record evidence for silicate rock–liquid water interaction. Many CM chondrites also exhibit well‐developed fine‐grained rims (FGRs) that surround major components, including chondrules and refractory inclusions. Previous studies have shown that Aguas Zarcas, a CM2 chondrite fall recovered in 2019, is a breccia consisting of several lithologies. Here, we present a study of Aguas Zarcas using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron probe microanalysis, focusing on brecciation and aqueous alteration on the parent body. We observed two lithologies within our sample, separated by a distinct textural and chemical boundary. The first lithology has a higher chondrule abundance (“chondrule‐rich”) and significantly larger FGRs compared to the second lithology (“chondrule‐poor”), even for similarly sized chondrules. We observed clear compositional differences between the two lithologies and more multilayered FGRs in the chondrule‐rich lithology. We determined that the chondrule‐rich lithology is less altered (petrologic type 2.7–2.8) and displays larger FGRs to chondrule ratios compared to the more altered chondrule‐poor lithology (petrologic type 2.5–2.6). These observations are contrary to previous models that predict aqueous alteration as a cause of FGR formation in the parent body. Our observed differences in Mg and Fe distribution in the lithology matrices alongside variable FGR thickness suggest distinct formation environments. We propose that the Aguas Zarcas parent body was subjected to several minor and major brecciation events that mixed different materials with variable degrees of aqueous alteration together, in agreement with previous studies.
Neonatal heart transplantation in the United States: Trends and outcomes
Authors: John Mohan M. , Zinyandu Tawanda , Rosenblum Joshua M. , Shashidharan Subhadra , Chai Paul J. , Shaw Fawwaz R. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundHeart transplantation in the neonatal period is associated with excellent survival. However, outcomes data are scant and have been obtained primarily from two single‐center reports within the United States. We sought to analyze the outcomes of all neonatal heart transplants performed in the United States using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) dataset.MethodsThe UNOS dataset was queried for patients who underwent infant heart transplantation from 1987 to 2021. Patients were divided into two groups based on age – neonates (<=31 days), and older infants (32 days–365 days). Demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed and compared, along with follow up survival data.ResultsOverall, 474 newborns have undergone heart transplantation in the United States since 1987. Freedom from death or re‐transplantation for neonates was 63.5%, 58.8% and 51.6% at 5, 10, and 20 years, respectively. Patients in the newborn group had lower unadjusted survival compared to older infants (p < .001), but conditional 1‐year survival was higher in neonates (p = .03). On multivariable analysis, there was no significant difference in survival between the two age groups (p = .43). Black race, congenital heart disease diagnosis, earlier surgical era, and preoperative mechanical circulatory support use were associated with lower survival among infant transplants (p < .05).ConclusionsNeonatal heart transplantation is associated with favorable long‐term clinical outcomes. Neonates do not have a significant survival advantage over older infants. Widespread applicability is limited by the small number of available donors. Efforts to expand the donor pool to include non‐standard donor populations ought to be considered.
Moral worth
Authors: Metz Euan K. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe concept of moral worth, of being creditworthy for doing the right thing, is often seen as essential feature of a moral theory. It forces us to provide a clear account of the relationship between moral motivation and moral action, raising important questions about the demands that morality makes of us. Work on moral worth has a long lineage, especially in Kantian scholarship. Recent years, however, have seen a more focused interest in the nature of moral worth outside of the Kantian tradition. Indeed, part of this interest stems from a rejection of an orthodox Kantian understanding of what moral worth is. In this article, I chart prominent reasons for rejecting the orthodoxy, and distinguish between two rival camps that have emerged: Right Reasons Accounts and Rightness Accounts. I delineate some of the demands that these accounts must meet, and end by discussing a potential way forward that has emerged via hybrid views and goal‐based views that attempt to utilise the most promising features of each.
Causal network topology analysis: Characterizing causal context for risk management
Authors: Lin Yifei , Seligmann Benjamin J. , Micklethwaite Steven , Lange David 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe ways that risk assessments are commonly performed in organizations have limitations that undermine their quality. They typically focus on individual risk events one at a time but are weak at integrating their relevant causal context, into decision‐making processes. Network topology analysis has previously been applied to address this weakness through quantitatively characterizing the importance of the causal interactions of risk events. However, there remains a lack of both clarity and consistency in terminology, methods, and interpretation of the results of this approach. This paper presents and formalizes causal network topology analysis, a methodology that contributes to (1) characterizing the causal context of a risk event to inform its management, (2) articulating the ontological concepts underpinning a repeatable topology network analysis, and (3) justifying the selection and usage of network metrics for this purpose. The theory and methodology are discussed, and an exemplar application to a mining project feasibility study is presented.
Reasons for mosquito net non‐use in malaria‐endemic countries: A review of qualitative research published between 2011 and 2021
Authors: Ladu Hadiza Isa , Shuaibu Umar , Pulford Justin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMosquito nets, particularly insecticide‐treated nets, are the most recommended method of malaria control in endemic countries. However, individuals do not always have access to insecticide‐treated nets or use them as recommended. The current paper expands on a previous review published in 2011 which highlighted a need for more qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non‐use. We present a systematic review of qualitative research published in the past decade to assess the growth and quality of qualitative papers about net non‐use and examine and update the current understanding. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Global Health, in addition to a citation search of the initial review. Relevant papers were screened and discussed. The critical appraisal assessment tool was used to ensure quality. Thematic synthesis was used to extract, synthesise, and analyse study findings. Compared with the initial review, the results showed a 10‐fold increase in qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non‐use between 2011 and 2021. In addition, the quality of the research has improved, with more than 90% of the papers receiving high scores, using the critical appraisal assessment tool. The reported reasons for non‐use were categorised into four themes: human factors, net factors, housing structure, and net access. More than two thirds of the studies (25/39) were led by authors affiliated with institutions in malaria‐endemic countries. Despite the distribution of free mosquito nets in malaria‐endemic countries, earlier reported challenges remain pertinent. The most common reasons for net non‐use across all regions of Malaria endemic countries pertained to human‐ and net‐related factors. The research focus should shift towards intervention studies to address these issues.