bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Antifoaming Agents on Manufacturing Silver Dendrites Through Fluoride-Assisted Galvanic Replacement Reaction
Authors: Lee Pee-Yew , Li Chen-Yu , Bai Yi-Hong , Huang Hung Ji , Weng Chun-Jen , Lin Yung-Sheng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In fluoride-assisted galvanic replacement reaction (FAGRR), metallic dendrites are formed simultaneously with hydrogen gas. However, the presence of hydrogen bubbles impedes the reduction of metallic ions to form metallic dendrites. This study investigates the FAGRR approach to manufacturing Ag dendrites where ethanol is incorporated into an AgNO3 reaction solution. The findings of this study demonstrate the efficacy of ethanol as an antifoaming agent in enhancing the deposition of the Ag dendrites during the FAGRR process. The antifoaming effect of ethanol becomes more intense at higher concentrations of AgNO3. The introduction of ethanol into FAGRR can significantly improve processing efficiency and yield in the limited time for manufacturing science and engineering.
Differential development of antibiotic resistance and virulence between
Acinetobacter
species
Authors: Darby Elizabeth M. , Moran Robert A. , Holden Emma , Morris Theresa , Harrison Freya , Clough Barbara , McInnes Ross S. , Schneider Ludwig , Frickel Eva M. , Webber Mark A. , Blair Jessica M. A. 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

The two species that account for most cases of
Acinetobacter
-associated bacteremia in the United Kingdom are
Acinetobacter lwoffii
, often a commensal but also an emerging pathogen, and
Acinetobacter baumannii
, a well-known antibiotic-resistant species. While these species both cause similar types of human infection and occupy the same niche,
A. lwoffii
(unlike
A. baumannii
) has thus far remained susceptible to antibiotics. Comparatively little is known about the biology of
A. lwoffii
, and this is the largest study on it conducted to date, providing valuable insights into its behaviour and potential threat to human health. This study aimed to explain the antibiotic susceptibility, virulence, and fundamental biological differences between these two species. The relative susceptibility of
A. lwoffii
was explained as it encoded fewer antibiotic resistance and efflux pump genes than
A. baumannii
(9 and 30, respectively). While both species had markers of horizontal gene transfer,
A. lwoffii
encoded more DNA defense systems and harbored a far more restricted range of plasmids. Furthermore,
A. lwoffii
displayed a reduced ability to select for antibiotic resistance mutations, form biofilm, and infect both
in vivo
and in
in vitro
models of infection. This study suggests that the emerging pathogen
A. lwoffii
has remained susceptible to antibiotics because mechanisms exist to make it highly selective about the DNA it acquires, and we hypothesize that the fact that it only harbors a single RND system restricts the ability to select for resistance mutations. This provides valuable insights into how development of resistance can be constrained in Gram-negative bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Acinetobacter lwoffii
is often a harmless commensal but is also an emerging pathogen and is the most common cause of
Acinetobacter
-derived bloodstream infections in England and Wales. In contrast to the well-studied and often highly drug-resistant
A. baumannii
,
A. lwoffii
has remained susceptible to antibiotics. This study explains why this organism has not evolved resistance to antibiotics. These new insights are important to understand why and how some species develop antibiotic resistance, while others do not, and could inform future novel treatment strategies.
New precise age constraints of the Hatu gold belt, west Junggar, NW China: Implications for a 300 Ma magmatic hydrothermal event in post-collisional setting
Authors: An Fang , Qiu Tian , Zhang Hong , Yuan Honglin , Zhu Yongfeng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
A 300 Ma magmatic hydrothermal ore-forming process is identified in the Hatu gold belt in west Junggar, northwest China, based on precise age constraint by secondary ion mass spectroscopy U-Pb dating of hydrothermal zircon and Ar-Ar dating of muscovite. The gold deposits in the Hatu belt (Hatu, Qi-V, Huilvshan, etc.) are similar in geology, with NE- and NW-trending orebodies composed of gold-bearing quartz veins and auriferous altered tuffaceous wall-rocks. Hydrothermal zircon grains separated from gold-bearing quartz veins in the Qi-V gold deposit provide a concordia age of 299.6 Ma and a nearly identical weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 300 ± 2 Ma. Muscovite samples also from the gold-bearing quartz veins yield 40Ar/39Ar plateau ages of 299.6 ± 1.7 Ma, 299.9 ± 1.8 Ma, and 300.6 ± 1.9 Ma. By comprehensive compilation of geological and geochemical characteristics, tectonic evolution, and geochronology of the gold deposits in the Hatu gold belt, our new precise age data confirm that the gold deposits in the Hatu belt formed simultaneously at ca. 300 Ma, and likely formed during a post-collisional extensional setting by magmatic hydrothermal fluid from cooling magmatic sources.
Clinical and cost-effectiveness of individualised (early) patient-directed rehabilitation versus standard rehabilitation after surgical repair of the rotator cuff of the shoulder: protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial with integrated Quintet Recruitment Intervention (RaCeR 2)
Authors: Mazuquin Bruno , Moffatt Maria , Realpe Alba , Sherman Rachelle , Ireland Katie , Connan Zak , Tildsley Jack , Manca Andrea , Gc Vijay Singh , Foster Nadine E , Rees Jonathan , Drew Steven , Bateman Marcus , Fakis Apostolos , Farnsworth Malin , Littlewood Chris 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionDespite the high number of operations and surgical advancement, rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair has not progressed for over 20 years. The traditional cautious approach might be contributing to suboptimal outcomes. Our aim is to assess whether individualised (early) patient-directed rehabilitation results in less shoulder pain and disability at 12 weeks after surgical repair of full-thickness tears of the rotator cuff compared with current standard (delayed) rehabilitation.Methods and analysisThe rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair (RaCeR 2) study is a pragmatic multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial with internal pilot phase. It has a parallel group design with 1:1 allocation ratio, full health economic evaluation and quintet recruitment intervention. Adults awaiting arthroscopic surgical repair of a full-thickness tear are eligible to participate. On completion of surgery, 638 participants will be randomised. The intervention (individualised early patient-directed rehabilitation) includes advice to the patient to remove their sling as soon as they feel able, gradually begin using their arm as they feel able and a specific exercise programme. Sling removal and movement is progressed by the patient over time according to agreed goals and within their own pain and tolerance. The comparator (standard rehabilitation) includes advice to the patient to wear the sling for at least 4 weeks and only to remove while eating, washing, dressing or performing specific exercises. Progression is according to specific timeframes rather than as the patient feels able. The primary outcome measure is the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index total score at 12-week postrandomisation. The trial timeline is 56 months in total, from September 2022.Trial registration numberISRCTN11499185.
Evaluating patient factors, operative management and postoperative outcomes in trauma laparotomy patients worldwide: a protocol for a global observational multicentre trauma study
Authors: Bath Michael F , Kohler Katharina , Hobbs Laura , Smith Brandon George , Clark David J , Kwizera Arthur , Perkins Zane , Marsden Max , Davenport Ross , Davies Justin , Amoako Joachim , Moonesinghe Ramani , Weiser Thomas , Leather Andy J M , Hardcastle Timothy , Naidoo Ravi , Nördin Yannick , Conway Morris Andrew , Lakhoo Kokila , Hutchinson Peter John , Bashford Tom 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionTrauma contributes to the greatest loss of disability-adjusted life-years for adolescents and young adults worldwide. In the context of global abdominal trauma, the trauma laparotomy is the most commonly performed operation. Variation likely exists in how these patients are managed and their subsequent outcomes, yet very little global data on the topic currently exists. The objective of the GOAL-Trauma study is to evaluate both patient and injury factors for those undergoing trauma laparotomy, their clinical management and postoperative outcomes.MethodsWe describe a planned prospective multicentre observational cohort study of patients undergoing trauma laparotomy. We will include patients of all ages who present to hospital with a blunt or penetrating injury and undergo a trauma laparotomy within 5 days of presentation to the treating centre. The study will collect system, patient, process and outcome data, following patients up until 30 days postoperatively (or until discharge or death, whichever is first). Our sample size calculation suggests we will need to recruit 552 patients from approximately 150 recruiting centres.DiscussionThe GOAL-Trauma study will provide a global snapshot of the current management and outcomes for patients undergoing a trauma laparotomy. It will also provide insight into the variation seen in the time delays for receiving care, the disease and patient factors present, and patient outcomes. For current standards of trauma care to be improved worldwide, a greater understanding of the current state of trauma laparotomy care is paramount if appropriate interventions and targets are to be identified and implemented.
Unveiling the truth: is COVID-19 reimbursement in Colombia a flawed design? A cost-of-illness analysis for moderate, severe and critical infections
Authors: Fernandez-Trujillo Liliana , Sangiovanni Saveria , Castrillon Ana Isabel , Hincapie-Zapata Lina , Góez-Mogollón Lina Maria , Brun Vergara Marcela , Prada Sergio I 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis study examines the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Colombian Health System, focusing on the adequacy of reimbursement rates for inpatient stays. The study, based on a cost of illness analysis, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the reimbursement scheme and identify potential economic losses within the health system.Patients and methodsThe study protocol outlines the inclusion criteria for patients >18 years with confirmed COVID-19 infection and moderate to critical disease. Patients hospitalised between June 2020 and June 2021 for at least 24 hours were included. Exclusion criteria involved pregnant patients and those initially hospitalised for non-COVID-19.ResultsThe study included 781 patients contributing to 790 hospitalisations. Demographic and clinical characteristics were analysed, with critical illness being the most prevalent category (61%). The overall mortality rate was 20.3%, primarily observed in critically ill patients. In the general ward for moderate cases, the reimbursement rate saw a substantial increase from US$3237 in 2020 to US$6760 in 2021, surpassing median resource utilisation. However, for severe cases in the intermediate care unit, reimbursement rates decreased, indicating potential insufficiency in covering costs. In the intensive care unit for critical cases, despite improved reimbursement rates, median resource utilisation still exceeds the 2021 rate, suggesting financial insufficiency in reimbursement rates.ConclusionOur study underscores the inadequacies of the previous reimbursement system in addressing the varying resource utilisation and costs associated with COVID-19 inpatient care. Our analysis reveals substantial discrepancies between estimated costs and actual resource utilisation, particularly for severe and critical cases. We advocate for government flexibility in revising reimbursement baskets, supported by pilot studies to assess effectiveness. The use of real-world evidence forms a crucial basis for informed adjustments to reimbursement levels in preparation for future pandemics. This proactive approach ensures alignment between reimbursement policies and the actual costs associated.
Prognostic models and factors identifying end-of-life in non-cancer chronic diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Gebresillassie Begashaw Melaku , Attia John Richard , Mersha Amanual Getnet , Harris Melissa L 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundPrecise prognostic information, if available, is very helpful for guiding treatment decisions and resource allocation in patients with non-cancer non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). This study aimed to systematically review the existing evidence, examining prognostic models and factors for identifying end-of-life non-cancer NCD patients.MethodsElectronic databases, including Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PsychINFO and other sources, were searched from the inception of these databases up until June 2023. Studies published in English with findings mentioning prognostic models or factors related to identifying end-of-life in non-cancer NCD patients were included. The quality of studies was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool.ResultsThe analysis included data from 41 studies, with 16 focusing on chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), 10 on dementia, 6 on heart failure and 9 on mixed NCDs. Traditional statistical modelling was predominantly used for the identified prognostic models. Common predictors in COPD models included dyspnoea, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, functional status, exacerbation history and body mass index. Models for dementia and heart failure frequently included comorbidity, age, gender, blood tests and nutritional status. Similarly, mixed NCD models commonly included functional status, age, dyspnoea, the presence of skin pressure ulcers, oral intake and level of consciousness. The identified prognostic models exhibited varying predictive accuracy, with the majority demonstrating weak to moderate discriminatory performance (area under the curve: 0.5–0.8). Additionally, most of these models lacked independent external validation, and only a few underwent internal validation.ConclusionOur review summarised the most relevant predictors for identifying end-of-life in non-cancer NCDs. However, the predictive accuracy of identified models was generally inconsistent and low, and lacked external validation. Although efforts to improve these prognostic models should continue, clinicians should recognise the possibility that disease heterogeneity may limit the utility of these models for individual prognostication; they may be more useful for population level health planning.
The effects of pre-harvest glyphosate rate and timing on yield and pre-malt quality of malting barley
Authors: O'Donovan John T. , Kubota Hiroshi , Harker K. Neil , Turkington T. Kelly , May William , Johnson Eric N. , Beres Brian , Izydorczyk Marta , Oatway Lori , de Gooijer Henry , Mulenga Alick , Schwinghamer Timothy , Tidemann Breanne D. 
Published: April 2024

The production of barley cultivars with malting and brewing quality characteristics is subject to strict grading and technical standards for the end-use market. Environmental and management factors can significantly alter grain quality, and the qualities required for malting. Crop and kernel uniformity are critical factors where variability can exceed the tolerance for meeting malt quality. A practice to address variations in crop maturity is the application of pre-harvest glyphosate. Pre-harvest glyphosate applications can, however, alter malting characteristics in barley, and, if mis-timed, can also reduce yield. A 4-year study at five locations in Alberta and Saskatchewan from 2013 to 2017 was conducted to determine the effects of pre-harvest glyphosate applications on malting barley characteristics. Glyphosate was applied at 900 and 1125 g ae ha−1 on malting barley cultivars ‘CDC Meredith’ and ‘AC Metcalfe’ malting barley at soft dough, hard dough, and physiological maturity growth stages. Yield reductions of up to 12% were observed from glyphosate applications at soft dough, and yield was maximized with applications at physiological maturity. Glyphosate application, at two rates, reduced percentage plump kernels, but did not affect kernel weight or protein concentration. The growth stage of barley plants did not provide an accurate indicator of seed moisture levels at the time of application, which motivated our conclusion that glyphosate applications can be mistimed by inaccurate indicators. The results motivate our questioning of the utility of pre-harvest glyphosate applications, given the adverse effects to barley yield and quality observed, even when applied according to the label instructions.
Characterizing Cancer Burden in the American Indian Population in North Carolina
Authors: Spees Lisa P. , Jackson Bradford E. , Raveendran Yadurshini , Morris Hayley N. , Emerson Marc A. , Baggett Christopher D. , Bell Ronny A. , Salas Ana I. , Meernik Clare , Akinyemiju Tomi F. , Wheeler Stephanie B. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background:
The American Indian (AI) population in North Carolina has limited access to the Indian Health Service. Consequently, cancer burden and disparities may differ from national estimates. We describe the AI cancer population and examine AI–White disparities in cancer incidence and mortality.

Methods:
We identified cancer cases diagnosed among adult AI and White populations between 2014 and 2018 from the North Carolina Central Cancer Registry. We estimated incidence and mortality rate ratios (IRR and MRR) by race. In addition, between the AI and White populations, we estimated the ratio of relative frequency differences [RRF, with 95% confidence limits (CL)] of clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. Finally, we evaluated the geographic distribution of incident diagnoses among AI populations.

Results:
Our analytic sample included 2,161 AI and 204,613 White individuals with cancer. Compared with the White population, the AI population was more likely to live in rural areas (48% vs. 25%; RRF, 1.89; 95% CL, 1.81–1.97) and to have Medicaid (18% vs. 7%; RRF, 2.49; 95% CL, 2.27–2.71). Among the AI population, the highest age-standardized incidence rates were female breast, followed by prostate and lung and bronchus. Liver cancer incidence was significantly higher among the AI population than White population (IRR, 1.27; 95% CL, 1.01–1.59). AI patients had higher mortality rates for prostate (MRR, 1.72; CL, 1.09–2.70), stomach (MRR, 1.82; 95% CL, 1.15–2.86), and liver (MRR, 1.70; 95% CL, 1.25–2.33) cancers compared with White patients.

Conclusions:
To reduce prostate, stomach, and liver cancer disparities among AI populations in North Carolina, multi-modal interventions targeting risk factors and increasing screening and treatment are needed.

Impact:
This study identifies cancer disparities that can inform targeted interventions to improve outcomes among AI populations in North Carolina.
Co-occurring EGFR p.E709X Mutation Mediates Primary Resistance to the Third-Generation EGFR-TKIs in EGFR p.G719X-Mutant Patients with Advanced NSCLC
Authors: Pang Lanlan , Huang Yihua , Zhuang Weitao , Zhang Yaxiong , Liao Jun , Hao Yue , Hao Feng , Wang Guoqian , Chen Ze-xin Chase , Zhu Yu , Li Mengzhen , Song Zhengbo , Deng Bo Peng , Li Jing , Zhang Li , Fang Wenfeng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
The current National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend afatinib or osimertinib as the preferred first-line treatment strategy for patients with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR p.G719X mutation. However, in the absence of head-to-head trials comparing afatinib with osimertinib in EGFR p.G719X-mutant patients, it is unclear which regimen is the preferred treatment option.

Experimental Design:
A large cohort of 4,228 treatment-naïve patients with lung cancer who underwent targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) testing was screened for EGFR p.G719X mutation. A multicenter cohort involving 68 EGFR p.G719X-mutant patients with advanced NSCLC and NGS profiling was retrospectively enrolled to evaluate clinical responses to afatinib (n = 37) and the third-generation EGFR-TKIs (n = 31). Ba/F3 cells stably expressing the EGFR p.G719A mutation were created to investigate the response to EGFR-TKIs in vitro.

Results:
Concurrent EGFR p.E709X mutations, being the most frequent co-occurring EGFR mutation in EGFR p.G719X-mutant NSCLC (∼30%), exerted a detrimental effect on outcomes in patients treated with third-generation EGFR-TKI [G719X/E709X vs. G719X; objective response rate (ORR): 0.00% vs. 47.62%, P &lt; 0.001; mPFS: 7.18 vs. 14.2 months, P = 0.04, respectively]. Conversely, no significant difference was found in the treatment efficacy of afatinib between EGFR p.G719X/E709X and EGFR p.G719X patients (G719X/E709X vs. G719X; ORR: 71.43% vs. 56.67%, P = 0.99; mPFS: 14.7 vs. 15.8 months, P = 0.69, respectively). In vitro experiments elucidated a resistant drug sensitivity and poor inhibition of EGFR phosphorylation in Ba/F3 cells expressing EGFR p.G719A/E709K mutation upon the third-generation EGFR-TKI treatment.

Conclusions:
Co-occurring EGFR p.E709X mutation mediated primary resistance to the third-generation EGFR-TKIs in EGFR p.G719X-mutant patients but remained sensitive to afatinib. A personalized treatment strategy should be undertaken based on the coexisting EGFR p.E709X mutation status.