bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A mathematical model of peer-instruction including stochastic uncertainty
Authors: Nariyuki Yasuhiro 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
A mathematical model of peer-instruction including stochastic uncertainty is presented. By using the master equation describing stochastic transition among different states, a stochastically modified version of Nitta’s peer-instruction model is obtained. It is shown that moment equations with a simple closure reproduce the expectation and the variance obtained by using direct numerical simulations of the resultant model. Such a mathematical model will provide insights to the real data beyond the standard statistical analysis.
LUCID-3: the upgrade of the ATLAS luminosity detector for High-Luminosity LHC
Authors: Giacobbe B. ,   on behalf of ATLAS LUCID Group
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The ATLAS physics program at the High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) calls for a precision in the luminosity measurement of 1%. A larger uncertainty would represent the dominant systematic error in precision measurements, including those in the Higgs sector. To fulfill such requirement in an environment characterized by up to 140 simultaneous interactions per crossing (200 in the ultimate scenario), ATLAS will feature several luminosity detectors. At least some of them must be both calibratable in the van der Meer scans at low luminosity and able to measure up to the highest values. LUCID-3, the upgrade of the present ATLAS luminometer (LUCID-2), will fulfill such a condition. The reasons for an upgrade of LUCID-2 and the envisaged solutions are discussed and a description of the LUCID-3 project is given. Finally, the first results obtained with the prototypes installed in ATLAS during the present LHC Run-3 are discussed as means of the validation of the final design.
Simulation method of airborne γ radiation detector response based on the equivalent transformation
Authors: Qu Jinhui , Lei Jiarong , Huang Xi , Zhang Huaiqiang , Wu Hexi , Chen Xiting , Yuan Yonggang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In airborne gamma radiation measurement, radiation
detectors' responses are simulated using the direct simulation
method. However, the number of particles recorded by the detector is
significantly lower than the number of particles emitted from the
radiation source. This imbalance leads to low simulation efficiency,
making it challenging to achieve an acceptable level of statistical
uncertainty within a limited computer time. To address this
inefficiency, we have theoretically proven the equivalent
transformation and utilized that to devise a fast Monte Carlo
simulation method known as the equivalent transformation
method. Simulation results from a large body and a large surface
source demonstrate that the detector response spectrum calculated
using the equivalent transformation method closely agrees with those
obtained through the direct simulation method. Furthermore, the
efficiency ratio for the equivalent transformation method, in
comparison to the direct simulation method, stands at
2.37 × 106 and 2.67 × 106 for a large body and a
large surface source, respectively. These findings solidify the
validity and effectiveness of the equivalent transformation method
in enhancing simulation efficiency for the research on airborne
gamma radiation measurement.
Parenteral nutrition in clinical practice: International challenges and strategies
Authors: Wischmeyer Paul E , Klek Stanislaw , Berger Mette M , Berlana David , Gray Brenda , Ybarra Joe , Ayers Phil 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Parenteral nutrition (PN) is an established therapy when oral/enteral feeding is not sufficient or is contraindicated, but nevertheless PN remains a complex, high-alert medication that is susceptible to errors that may affect patient safety. Over time, considerable progress has been made to make PN practices safer. The purpose of this article is to address ongoing challenges to improve the PN use process from prescription to administration and monitoring, and to outline practical aspects fostering the safety, quality, and cost-effectiveness of PN, as discussed at the International Safety and Quality of PN Summit.

Summary
Opportunities to improve the PN use process in clinical practice include the promotion of inter-disciplinary communication, vigilant surveillance for complications, staff education to increase competency, and more consistent use of advanced technologies that allow automated safety checks throughout the PN process. Topics covered include considerations on PN formulations, including the value of intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs), trends in compounding PN, the current and future role of market-authorized multi-chamber PN bags containing all 3 macronutrients (amino acids, glucose/dextrose, and ILE) in the United States and in Europe, and strategies to cope with the increasing global problem of PN product shortages.

Conclusion
This review outlines potential strategies to use in clinical practice to overcome ongoing challenges throughout the PN use process, and ultimately promote PN patient safety.
Publication of pharmacy resident research projects: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Behal Michael L , Fields Paige E , Cook Aaron M , Morgan Rebecca J , Flannery Alexander H 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Pharmacy residents often aspire to develop research skills through conducting a research project. Project publication rates among pharmacy residents are variable and at times low; however, previous studies have been limited to specific geographic regions and timeframes. This study sought to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the proportion of pharmacy resident research projects published in the peer-reviewed literature.

Methods
A systematic review of PubMed MEDLINE, Embase, and the Web of Science Core Collection was performed from database inception to May 25, 2023. Articles were included if they were full-text, peer-reviewed manuscripts of original research presenting observational data regarding pharmacy resident research project publication rates. Data extraction and assessment of risk of bias were conducted by 2 independent reviewers. A proportional meta-analysis using a random effects model of the included studies was conducted to generate a pooled, overall proportion.

Results
The search yielded 5,225 records and 12 articles that met the inclusion criteria. All studies were retrospective and observational. Risk of selection and cohort identification biases was “high,” whereas that of detection and timeframe biases was “low.” The included studies represented 6,990 resident research projects, 777 of which were published in the peer-reviewed literature. Publication rates across individual studies ranged from 1.8% to 36.2%. The pooled proportion (scale of 0 to 1) of projects published was 0.13 (95% CI, 0.09-0.19).

Conclusion
Pharmacy resident research project publication rates are low at 13%. Furthermore, studies reporting project publication rates over time suggest a neutral or negative trend in publication rates despite an exponential increase in the number of pharmacy residents.
Isothianaphthene quinoids: pyrazine-annelated structures for tuning electronic properties
Authors: Yamamoto Keitaro , Jinnai Seihou , Ie Yutaka 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The development of quinoidal systems with extended π-conjugation has elucidated the influence that diradical characteristics exert on structure–property relationships, which is significant because it broadens the possibilities for the use of organic semiconducting materials in organic electronics. However, the chain-length elongation of such quinoidal molecules has resulted in low chemical stability due to the large contribution of diradical characteristics and to the high level of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), both of which limit the synthesis of π-extended quinoidal molecules. Here, we describe solving this problem via aromatic stabilization. To accomplish this, we designed a system that utilizes electron-accepting pyrazine-fused thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine following the development of the isothianaphthene quinoids of thiophene 3-mer and 6-mer. Theoretical calculations indicate that the introduction of a pyrazine-annelated structure suppresses the diradical characteristics and stabilizes the HOMO energy level of quinoidal oligothiophenes. The thermal, photophysical, and physicochemical properties of newly synthesized quinoidal molecules with full annelation of the benzene and pyrazine rings were investigated. Quinoidal thiophene 3-mer functioned as an acceptor in organic solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 1.04%. This study demonstrates that the introduction of pyrazine-fused rings is an effective molecular design to extend the chain length of quinoidal oligothiophenes.
Perioperative immune checkpoint blockades improve prognosis of resectable non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Tian Yu , Liu Zhichao , Pan Hanbo , Zhu Hongda , Zou Ningyuan , Jiang Long , Li Ziming , Huang Jia , Hu Yingjie , Luo Qingquan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Immune checkpoint blockades (ICB) have been proven to improve prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer in the neoadjuvant setting, while whether its perioperative use could bring extra benefit remained unidentified. We aimed to demonstrate the prognostic benefit of perioperative ICB over preoperative-only use and investigate who could benefit from this ‘sandwich ICB therapy’.

METHODS
Patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery from 2018 to 2022 were retrospectively reviewed, and were divided into 4 groups based on the perioperative regimens: pre-ICB + post-computed tomography (CT), pre-ICB-only, pre-CT + post-ICB and pre-CT-only. Treatment-related adverse events, surgical outcomes, therapeutic response, recurrence-free survival and overall survival were compared.

RESULTS
Of 214 enrolled patients with preoperative therapy, 108 underwent immunochemotherapy and 106 underwent platinum-based chemotherapy. Compared with preoperative chemotherapy, preoperative immunochemotherapy was demonstrated with significantly higher major pathologic response (57/108 vs 12/106) and pathologic complete response (35/108 vs 4/106) rates with comparable adverse events. Regarding survival, perioperative ICB significantly improved the recurrence-free survival [versus pre-CT-only hazard ratio (HR) 0.15; 95% CI 0.09–0.27; versus pre-ICB-only HR 0.36; 95% CI 0.15–0.88] and overall survival (versus pre-CT-only HR 0.24; 95% CI 0.08–0.68). In patients without major pathologic response, perioperative ICB was observed to decrease the risk of recurrence (HR 0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.83) compared with preoperative ICB, and was an independent prognostic factor (P &lt; 0.05) for recurrence-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS
Perioperative ICB showed promising efficacy in improving pathological response and survival outcomes of resectable non-small cell lung cancer. For patients without major pathologic response after resection followed by preoperative ICB, sequential ICB treatment could be considered.
Volume prediction of young improved Sitka spruce trees in Great Britain through Bayesian model averaging
Authors: Manso Rubén , Price Andrew , Ash Adam , Macdonald Elspeth 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
More and earlier thinning operations are expected in Sitka spruce planted forests in Great Britain as a result of an increased demand for biomass and faster growth driven by breeding. It is however unknown whether the current models, which were designed to predict volume in adult trees, can provide unbiased volume predictions for the young individuals that are likely to be harvested in future thinning operations. The primary objective of this study was to answer this question. To do this, we used retrospective data from a destructive experiment originally aimed at assessing timber properties to reconstruct the taper and volume of 12 improved Sitka spruce trees at different ages. These volumes were then compared against the predictions from the current methods, which were found to be from moderately to strongly biased. The second objective was to provide proof of concept that a combination of existing volume models and other theoretical volume models could yield less biased predictions. We successfully addressed this objective through the Bayesian model averaging approach. The method, albeit tested with limited data, proved to be a promising alternative until new volume models are released. Further data from other available destructive experiments can be used to refine our calibration.
Neutralized Local Entropy and Dimension bounds for Invariant Measures
Authors: Ben Ovadia S , Rodriguez-Hertz F 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We introduce a notion of a point-wise entropy of measures (i.e., local entropy) called neutralized local entropy, and compare it with the Brin-Katok local entropy. We show that the neutralized local entropy coincides with Brin-Katok local entropy almost everywhere. Neutralized local entropy is computed by measuring open sets with a relatively simple geometric description. Our proof uses a measure density lemma for Bowen balls, and a version of a Besicovitch covering lemma for Bowen balls. As an application, we prove a lower point-wise dimension bound for invariant measures, complementing the previously established bounds for upper point-wise dimension.
Aminoglycoside resistance genes in early members of the Acinetobacter baumannii ST78A (SMAL, Italian clone) reside in an IS26-bounded island in the chromosome
Authors: Harmer Christopher J , Cahill Sarah M , Kenyon Johanna J , Hall Ruth M 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
The Acinetobacter baumannii isolate called SMAL, previously used to determine the structures of capsular polysaccharide and lipooligosaccharide, was recovered in Pavia, Italy in 2002 among the collection of aminoglycoside-resistant isolates designated as SMAL type. This type was later called the Italian clone, then ST78. ST78 isolates are now widely distributed.

Objectives
To establish the resistance gene complement and the location and structure of acquired resistance regions in early members of the Italian/ST78 clone.

Methods
The draft genome of SMAL2002 was assembled from Illumina MiSeq reads. Contigs containing resistance genes were joined and located in the chromosome using PCR with custom primers. The resistance profile was determined using disc diffusion.

Results
SMAL2002 is an ST78A isolate and includes three aminoglycoside resistance genes, aadB (gentamicin, kanamycin, tobramycin) aphA1 (kanamycin, neomycin) and aac(6′)-Ian (amikacin, kanamycin, tobramycin). The aadB gene cassette is incorporated at a secondary site in a relative of the aphA1-containing, IS26-bounded pseudo-compound transposon, PTn6020. The aac(6′)-Ian gene is in an adjacent IS26-bounded structure that includes sul2 (sulphonamide) and floR (florfenicol) resistance genes. The two pseudo-compound transposons overlap and are in the chromosomal hutU gene flanked by an 8 bp target site duplication. Although aac(6′)-Ian was not noticed previously, the same genes and structures were found in several available draft genomes of early ST78A isolates.

Conclusions
This study highlights the importance of correlating resistance profiles with resistance gene content. The location of acquired resistance genes in the SMAL2002 chromosome represents the original location in the ST78A lineage of ST78.
Analysis of National Institutes of Health Funding for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Narahari Adishesh K , Horgan Taylor M , Chandrabhatla Anirudha S , Gist D Chris , Patel Paranjay D , Lantieri Mark A , Sturek Jeffrey M , Davis Claire L , Jackson Patrick E H , Bell Taison D 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Evaluating the National Institute’s Health’s (NIH's) response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic via grants and clinical trials is crucial to determining the impact they had on aiding US citizens. We determined how the NIH's funding for COVID-19 research was disbursed and used by various institutions across the United States.

Methods
We queried NIH RePORTER and isolated COVID-19–related grants from January 2020 to December 2021. We analyzed grant type, geographical location, and awardee institution. Manuscripts published from these grants were quantitatively analyzed. COVID-19 clinical trials were mapped and distances from counties to clinical trial sites were calculated using ArcGis.

Results
A total of 2401 COVID-19 NIH grants resulted in 14 654 manuscripts from $4.2 billion and generated more than 150 000 citations. R01s make up 32% of grants (763/2401) and 8% of funding ($329 million). UM1 grants account for the majority of funding (30.8%; $1.3 Billion). Five states received 50.6% of funding: North Carolina, Washington, New York, California, and Massachusetts. Finally, of the 1806 clinical trials across 1266 sites in the United States, the majority were in metropolitan areas in close proximity to areas of high COVID-19 disease burden.

Conclusions and Relevance
Evaluating the outcome of the NIH's response to the COVID-19 pandemic is of interest to the general public. The present study finds that the NIH disbursed more than $4 billion in funding to large consortiums and clinical trials to develop diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Approximately 8% of funding was used for R01 grants. Clinical trial sites were generally located in areas of high COVID-19 burden.
Experience With Four-Month Rifapentine and Moxifloxacin–Based Tuberculosis Treatment in San Francisco
Authors: Louie Janice K , Agraz-Lara Rocio , Velásquez Gustavo E , Phillips Allison , Szumowski John D 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
A multicountry randomized controlled trial has demonstrated that pan-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) can be successfully treated with a 4-month regimen of daily isoniazid, rifapentine, moxifloxacin, and pyrazinamide (HPMZ). We piloted HPMZ in San Francisco (SF) using a modified version of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HPMZ treatment guidelines.

Methods
In this retrospective cohort, patients consecutively referred to SF TB clinic were evaluated for HPMZ eligibility based on preestablished inclusion/exclusion criteria. All underwent evaluation and management according to national recommendations. We reviewed the medical records of those initiated on HPMZ.

Results
From August 2021 to December 2023, 30 (18.8%) of 160 patients diagnosed with active TB met HPMZ inclusion criteria; of these, 22 (13.8%) started HPMZ. The median age (range) was 32.5 (14–86) years, 17 (77.3%) were otherwise healthy, and 19 (86.4%) had pulmonary TB, including 7 (36.8%) with cavitary disease. Eighteen (81.8%) patients had an adverse event, with 11 (50%) prematurely discontinuing HPMZ; the most common adverse events were vomiting, elevated transaminases, and rash. To date, 9 (40.9%) have completed treatment, with most achieving criteria for cure. One patient was diagnosed with possible TB recurrence and restarted standard TB treatment.

Conclusions
Our experience, with half of patients to date prematurely discontinuing HPMZ, illustrates the challenge of extrapolating findings from TB clinical trials commonly conducted in high-incidence, non-US settings to US clinical practice. Further experience may help identify best practices for implementing HPMZ, including identifying predictors of which patients may be most likely to benefit from and tolerate this regimen.
Training German police officers to tackle racial discrimination: Professional virtues between compliance with legal norms and dialogue with affected groups
Authors: John Emanuel 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Educational formats that seek to raise police officers’ awareness about racial discrimination often focus on formal violations of the principle of non-discrimination or canons of values. First, based on a critical discussion of positions on discrimination in policing and proposals for police training in Germany this paper argues based on human rights for a broader understanding of the challenge to tackle racial discrimination in policing. In reference to neo-Aristotelian virtue ethics, competencies for proactive encounters with affected groups will thereby be explored. Second, it outlines a framework for educational formats on this issue that address police officers as whole persons, who should, in the context of their professional practice, develop the virtue to understand the perspectives of and to build relationships of care with marginalized individuals. An example of a tested format that integrates perspectives from civil society will be presented.
Thermosensitive hydrogel with programmed dual-octenidine release combating biofilm for the treatment of apical periodontitis
Authors: Cheng Yu , Huangfu Yini , Zhao Tingyuan , Wang Linxian , Yang Jing , Liu Jie , Feng Zujian , Que Kehua 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The utilization of intracanal medicaments is an indispensable procedure in root-canal treatment. However, the conventional intracanal medicaments still need improvement regarding antimicrobial efficacy and ease of clinical operation. To address the above issues, OCT/PECT@OCT + ALK composite hydrogel characterized by programming sequential release of dual antimicrobial agents has been proposed. Thanks to the self-assemble ability of amphiphilic copolymer poly(ε-caprolactone-co-1,4,8-trioxa [4.6]spiro-9-undecanone)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone-co-1,4,8-trioxa[4.6]spiro-9-undecanone) (PECT), dual hydrophilic and hydrophobic antimicrobial agents could be easily encapsulated in the hydrogel system and tailored for sequential drug release for a better antibiofilm effect. The hydrophilic octenidine (Octenidine dihydrochloride, OCT-HCl) is encapsulated in the hydrophilic part of hydrogel for instantaneous elevating the drug concentration through bursting release, and the hydrophobic octenidine (Octenidine, OCT) is further loaded into the PECT nanoparticles to achieve a slower and sustained-release profile. Additionally, calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) was incorporated into the system and evenly dispersed among PECT nanoparticles to create an alkaline (ALK) environment, synergistically enhancing the antibiofilm effect with higher efficiency and prolonged duration. The antibiofilm effect has been demonstrated in root-canal models and apical periodontitis rats, exhibiting superior performance compared to clinically used Ca(OH)2 paste. This study demonstrates that OCT/PECT@OCT + ALK composite thermosensitive hydrogel is a potential intracanal medicament with excellent antibiofilm effect and clinical operability.
The First Dog Doctors: Canine Healthcare Practitioners in the Eighteenth-Century Medical Marketplace
Authors: Howard-Smith Stephanie 
Published: March 2024

Summary
The question of when dogs became the recipients of veterinary care has long been debated; current scholarship does not acknowledge the long tradition of canine healthcare provided by irregular specialists prior to the late nineteenth century. This article reveals, however, that eighteenth-century Britain was home to a thriving canine medical marketplace. Among its key actors were ‘dog doctors’—individuals without formal healthcare training who regularly treated and healed dogs. This article offers the first historical account of the eighteenth-century dog doctor, contextualising and reappraising his identity, clients and services. It focusses on the dynamic career of the celebrity practitioner John Norborn, who proudly self-identified as a ‘dog doctor’ when the term was considered an insult. In doing so the article considers the conditions in which specialist care for dogs first developed and argues for a new chronology of canine veterinary medicine.