Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Post-standardization of routine creatinine assays: are they suitable for clinical applications

Introduction Reliable serum creatinine measurements are of vital importance for the correct classification of chronic kidney disease and early identification of kidney injury. The National Kidney Disease Education Programme working group and other groups have defined clinically acceptable analytical limits for creatinine methods. The aim of this study was to re-evaluate the performance of routine creatinine methods in the light of these defined limits so as to assess their suitability for clinical practice. Method In collaboration with the Dutch External Quality Assurance scheme, six frozen commutable samples, with a creatinine concentration ranging from 80 to 239 μmol/L and traceable to isotope dilution mass spectrometry, were circulated to 91 laboratories in four European countries for creatinine measurement and estimated glomerular filtration rate calculation. Two out of the six samples were spiked with glucose to give high and low final concentrations of glucose. Results Results from 89 laboratories were analysed for bias, imprecision (%CV) for each creatinine assay and total error for estimated glomerular filtration rate. The participating laboratories used analytical instruments from four manufacturers; Abbott, Beckman, Roche and Siemens. All enzymatic methods in this study complied with the National Kidney Disease Education Programme working group recommended limits of bias of 5% above a creatinine concentration of 100 μmol/L. They also did not show any evidence of interference from glucose. In addition, they also showed compliance with the clinically recommended %CV of ≤4% across the analytical range. In contrast, the Jaffe methods showed variable performance with regard to the interference of glucose and unsatisfactory bias and precision. Conclusion Jaffe-based creatinine methods still exhibit considerable analytical variability in terms of bias, imprecision and lack of specificity, and this variability brings into question their clinical utility. We believe that clinical laboratories and manufacturers should work together to phase out the use of relatively non-specific Jaffe methods and replace them with more specific methods that are enzyme based.
Evaluation of a reduced centrifugation time and higher centrifugal force on various general chemistry and immunochemistry analytes in plasma and serum

Background Centrifugation of blood samples is an essential preanalytical step in the clinical biochemistry laboratory. Centrifugation settings are often altered to optimize sample flow and turnaround time. Few studies have addressed the effect of altering centrifugation settings on analytical quality, and almost all studies have been done using collection tubes with gel separator. Methods In this study, we compared a centrifugation time of 5 min at 3000 × g to a standard protocol of 10 min at 2200 × g. Nine selected general chemistry and immunochemistry analytes and interference indices were studied in lithium heparin plasma tubes and serum tubes without gel separator. Results were evaluated using mean bias, difference plots and coefficient of variation, compared with maximum allowable bias and coefficient of variation used in laboratory routine quality control. Results For all analytes except lactate dehydrogenase, the results were within the predefined acceptance criteria, indicating that the analytical quality was not compromised. Lactate dehydrogenase showed higher values after centrifugation for 5 min at 3000 × g, mean bias was 6.3 ± 2.2% and the coefficient of variation was 5%. Conclusions We found that a centrifugation protocol of 5 min at 3000 × g can be used for the general chemistry and immunochemistry analytes studied, with the possible exception of lactate dehydrogenase, which requires further assessment.
of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics On anti-periodic oscillations of shunting inhibitory cellular neural networks with time-varying delays and continuously distributed delays

On anti-periodic oscillations of shunting inhibitory cellular neural networks with time-varying delays and continuously distributed delays Changjin Xu, Peiluan Li, Article information: To cite this document: Changjin Xu, Peiluan Li, "On anti-periodic oscillations of shunting inhibitory cellular neural networks with time-varying delays and continuously distributed delays", International Journal of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics, https://doi.org/10.1108/ IJICC-11-2016-0053 Permanent link to this document: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJICC-11-2016-0053
Late diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria type III

We report the case of a 78-year-old patient with late diagnosis of hyperoxaluria type III (PH3). He developed renal failure after nephrectomy for clear cell papillary renal carcinoma and complained of recurrent urolithiasis for some 30 years, whose aetiology was never identified. Biochemical laboratory investigations of urine and urolithiasis composition revealed marked hyperoxaluria but normal concentrations of urinary glyceric and glycolic acid as well as stones of idiopathic calcium-oxalate appearance. Furthermore, the dietary survey showed excessive consumption of food supplements containing massive amounts of oxalate precursors. However, the persistence of excessive hyperoxaluria after his eating habits was changed leading us to perform molecular genetic testing. We found heterozygous mutations of the recently PH3-associated HOGA1 gene when sequencing PH genes. This is the first description of late diagnosis primary PH3 in a patient with several additional pro-lithogenic factors. This case illustrates the importance of undertaking a complete biological work-up to determine the aetiology of hyperoxaluria. This may reveal underdiagnosed primary hyperoxaluria, even in older patients.
Interaction among variant vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor in relation to prostate cancer risk

Prostate cancer (PCa) incidence and mortality are disproportionately high among African‐American (AA) men. Its detection and perhaps its disparities could be improved through the identification of genetic susceptibility biomarkers within essential biological pathways. Interactions among highly variant genes, central to angiogenesis, may modulate susceptibility for prostate cancer, as previous demonstrated. This study evaluates the interplay among three highly variant genes (i.e., IL‐10, TGFβR‐1, VEGF), their receptors and their influence on PCa within a case‐control study consisting of an under‐served population.
Three conceptualizations of hybrid management in hospitals

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to bring the discussion on the relationship between management and medicine a step forward by focussing on: first, how the notion of hybrid and hybridity has been used in the literature on healthcare management. Second, the authors have mapped the alternative ways that the concept have been used in order to conceptualize a more specific set of possible combinations of managerial and professional roles in healthcare management. Hybrid management is a topic that ought to be important for training, communication among researchers and for identifying areas of future research: in management, in healthcare reforms, in sociology of professions and in theory of organizations. Design/methodology/approach – The authors provide a systematic literature review in order to map the various conceptualizations of hybrid management. The authors have searched for “hybrid leadership,” “hybrid management” combined with hospitals and health care in a whole range of journals, identified in.
Impacts of ISO 9000 on Greek SMEs business performance

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the association between ISO 9000 certification and business performance for small-to-medium enterprises in the food and beverage (F&B) industry. Design/methodology/approach The research employed a qualitative approach based on case studies to investigate in depth how companies perceive ISO 9001. More specifically, four enterprises were examined, and a total of 26 semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with top and middle managers from the companies. Questions were validated by experts and through pilot interviews. In total, 45 documents of a broad range related to the quality management system were examined. Personal observation and non-structured consultation with personnel were also used to evaluate the possible impacts and livelihood outcomes. Findings Research findings showed that the certified companies in the F&B industry gain a number of both internal and external benefits, including: quality awareness, increased productivity, increased personnel participation and efficiency, improved image and penetration into new markets. Regarding the financial benefits of certification, the findings are not as convincing, as one company reported no financial benefits, and the rest reported that financial benefits are indirect and intangible. Conclusively, it can be said that SMEs that wish to pursue certification should certainly expect benefits. Practical implications Although many studies have concentrated on analyzing the impact of the implementation of ISO 9001 certification, there is still a clear need for research in specific sectors. Practicing managers and researchers will be able to examine findings in order to evaluate benefits and weaknesses from certification, thereby identifying and acting before and after certification. Originality/value Although the F&B industry has shown a great preference for the ISO 9000 standard and has adopted it extensively, scant empirical evidence has been recorded on the subject. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the benefits for implementing the ISO 9001 certification and to the analysis of its application to the ever-important F&B industry in Greece, a country whose economy is particularly supported by SMEs and has been severely hit by the economic crisis. Researchers will therefore further their knowledge, understand benefits but also acknowledge weaknesses.
Clinical features and outcome of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM): An outlook from South India

Introduction: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an uncommon inflammatory demyelinating encephalomyelitis that may follow infections, vaccinations or occur spontaneously. Most of the large series of this disorder were published in the pre-MRI era. Subsequently there has been a paucity of data regarding this entity. Aims: We sought to describe our experience with ADEM across 2 hospitals from Kerala, Sree chitra tirunal institute of medical sciences, thiruvanthapuram and the Indo-american Brain and spine center, Vaikom. We wanted to look at the clinico-radiological parameters of this patient population as well as the functional outcome following ADEM. Materials and Methods: A total of 45 patients seen in these two centers over a period of 9 years from 1995 to 2003 were analyzed in a retrospective-prospective design. MRI, CT scans, laboratory investigations, nerve conduction parameters and modified rankin outcome scores at last follow up were also noted. Results: The clinico-radiological profile of our patients was comparable to that of patients described in the literature. Relapse was uncommon although transient reappearance of prior symptoms during subsequent illness was common. Possible multiple sclerosis could be diagnosed only in one patient during follow up. Mortality was low ( Conclusions: ADEM deserves to be distinguished from MS in our population as there seems to be a low likelihood of recurrence or relapse. Although mortality rates have improved greatly, survivors are left with a plethora of disabilities and are functionally impaired. Future studies should focus on specific disabilities and treatment options to further improve outcomes in ADEM
Medication for psychosis – consumption and consequences: The second Australian national survey of psychosis

Background: Most people diagnosed with a psychotic disorder will be prescribed psychotropic medication. The second Australian national survey of psychosis provided a unique opportunity to examine the pharmacological treatment of psychotic disorders from the perspective of the consumer. The aim of this paper is to report on medication use, adherence and perceived efficacy, and to describe side effect profiles. Method: Data on self-reported medication use in the 4 weeks prior to interview, including type, duration, adherence, side effects and helpfulness was collected from participants interviewed in the course of the second Australian national survey of psychosis. Results: The majority (91.6%) of participants were using psychotropic medication: 89.0% of people aged 18–34 years and 93.5% of people aged 35–64 years. The most commonly used class of medication was antipsychotic medication (81.6%). In addition, 37.4% were using antidepressants, 26.7% were using mood stabilisers and 17.8% were using anxiolytics/hypnotics. Polypharmacy was common with almost two-thirds (63.4%) using more than one class of medication and over a quarter (28.1%) of people with schizophrenia using more than one antipsychotic. Many participants (84.4%) reported experiencing side effects. The side effect profile of people using atypical antipsychotics was on average better than that of people using typical antipsychotics. Most people (85.2%) felt their medication relieved their mental health symptoms and most (88.2%) medication was taken as prescribed. Conclusions: Many people with a psychotic disorder are receiving antipsychotics, with a substantial proportion also taking antidepressants, mood stabilisers and anxiolytics/hypnotics. Medication use differs by age group, diagnostic group and course of illness. Many people using antipsychotics describe significant impairment in their everyday life as a result of medication side effects. Users of typical antipsychotics reported more side effects and more impairment than people using atypical antipsychotics. Most of our participants were prescribed psychotropic medications, and most reported that they were taking them.
Remifentanil Effect-site Concentration Blunting Cardiovascular Responses to Tracheal Intubation for Different Sex during Propofol Infusion

Background: Tracheal intubation induces clinically adverse hemodynamic changes. Various pharmacological strategies for controlling these reponses have been suggested with opioids being widely used. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect site concentration of remifentanil in blunting the cardiovascular responses to tracheal intubation according to gender. Methods: Eighty ASA physical status I or II patients, aged 20－40 years undergoing elective surgery, were classified into a male group (n = 40) and a female group (n = 40). Anesthesia was induced using a propofol target controlled infusion (TCI: Marsh model). A propofol target effect-site concentration of 4μg/ml was chosen. Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg was administered after the patients lost consciousness. Remifentanil TCI (Minto model) was started 1 min after the propofol injection. Initially, an effect-site concentration of 3 ng/ml was chosen. The next concentration was chosen using the up-and-down method reported by Dixon. The non-invasive blood pressure and heart rate were recorded before induction (baseline), after the remifentanil injection, immediately after intubation as well as 1 and, 3 minutes after intubation. Results: Probit analysis revealed a remifentanil effect-site EC50 and EC95 in the male group to be 1.94 ng/ml (95% CI, 1.60－2.27 ng/ml ), 3.07 ng/ml (95% CI, 2.65－4.06 ng/ml), respectively. The EC50 and EC95 in the female group were 1.69 ng/ml (95% CI, 1.35－2.01 ng/ml), 2.81 ng/ml (95% CI, 2.39－3.81 ng/ml), respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusions: The effect-site concentration of remifentanil blunting the cardiovascular responses to tracheal intubation during propofol TCI anesthesia was between 2 and 3 ng/ml. There were no gender differences.
Baby boomers' use and perception of recommended assistive technology

Aims The aim of this study was to enhance the understanding of the baby boom generation's use and perception of recommended assistive technology. Methods A mixed quantitative and qualitative research design was employed, primarily based on a phenomenological framework. Literature was reviewed to provide an overview of the factors found to influence the use of assistive technology. Twelve patients (born 1946-1965 inclusive) from a regional Australian public hospital, who were recommended assistive technology upon discharge, were administered questionnaires. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four participants. Findings Eight participants followed recommendations to hire/purchase assistive technology. All of the participants who obtained recommended assistive technology stated they ‘used’ it. Cost was identified as influencing non-use. Conclusions There was some variation from the literature in factors that influenced use, highlighting the importance of further examination of baby boomers and a.
Wavelets based algorithm for the evaluation of enhanced liver areas

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary tumor of the liver. After local therapies, the tumor evaluation is based on the mRECIST criteria, which involves the measurement of the maximum diameter of the viable lesion. This paper describes a computed methodology to measure through the contrasted area of the lesions the maximum diameter of the tumor by a computational algorithm. 63 computed tomography (CT) slices from 23 patients were assessed. Noncontrasted liver and HCC typical nodules were evaluated, and a virtual phantom was developed for this purpose. Optimization of the algorithm detection and quantification was made using the virtual phantom. After that, we compared the algorithm findings of maximum diameter of the target lesions against radiologist measures. Computed results of the maximum diameter are in good agreement with the results obtained by radiologist evaluation, indicating that the algorithm was able to detect properly the tumor limits. A comparison of the estimated maximum diameter by radiologist versus the algorithm revealed differences on the order of 0.25 cm for large-sized tumors (diameter > 5 cm), whereas agreement lesser than 1.0cm was found for small-sized tumors. Differences between algorithm and radiologist measures were accurate for small-sized tumors with a trend to a small increase for tumors greater than 5 cm. Therefore, traditional methods for measuring lesion diameter should be complemented with non-subjective measurement methods, which would allow a more correct evaluation of the contrast-enhanced areas of HCC according to the mRECIST criteria.
PNEUMATOSIS INTESTINALIS IN THE NEONATE

Pneumatosis intestinalis (intramural bowel air) can be seen in several disease processes during the neonatal period, notably mechanical obstruction, vascular compromise, and necrotizing enterocolitis.Pneumatosis intestinalis seen with mechanical obstruction is often uneventful and self-limiting when the obstruction is relieved.Necrotizing enterocolitis will usually have a characteristic presentation of early onset in premature infants with distention, bile-stained emesis, and blood in the stool.Vascular thromboses with subsequent bowel ischemia can mimic necrotizing enterocolitis, but will occur later in the newborn period, may be localized to small bowel, and may be associated with indwelling umbilical artery catheters. Recovery is often complicated by indeterminate periods of malabsorption.The diagnosis of the underlying disease leading to pneumatosis intestinalis is necessary for proper management.
Biomarkers in bipolar disorder: A positional paper from the International Society for Bipolar Disorders Biomarkers Task Force

Although the etiology of bipolar disorder remains uncertain, multiple studies examining neuroimaging, peripheral markers and genetics have provided important insights into the pathophysiologic processes underlying bipolar disorder. Neuroimaging studies have consistently demonstrated loss of gray matter, as well as altered activation of subcortical, anterior temporal and ventral prefrontal regions in response to emotional stimuli in bipolar disorder. Genetics studies have identified several potential candidate genes associated with increased risk for developing bipolar disorder that involve circadian rhythm, neuronal development and calcium metabolism. Notably, several groups have found decreased levels of neurotrophic factors and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Together these findings provide the background for the identification of potential biomarkers for vulnerability, disease expression and to help understand the course of illness and treatment response. In other areas of medicine, validated biomarkers now inform clinical decision-making. Although the findings reviewed herein hold promise, further research involving large collaborative studies is needed to validate these potential biomarkers prior to employing them for clinical purposes. Therefore, in this positional paper from the ISBD-BIONET (biomarkers network from the International Society for Bipolar Disorders), we will discuss our view of biomarkers for these three areas: neuroimaging, peripheral measurements and genetics; and conclude the paper with our position for the next steps in the search for biomarkers for bipolar disorder.
The case for social-cognitive remediation in schizophrenia: A life well lived is more than remission from psychosis

Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 47(6) The case for treating social-cognitive impairments in schizophrenia is compelling. The most recent Australian statistics show that most people (90.4%) with a psychotic illness have impaired social functioning, with over one-half (63.2%) showing a profound level of dysfunction in their ability to socialise, 37% feeling socially isolated, and over two-thirds unable to maintain close relationships or engage in social and recreational activities (Morgan et al., 2011). These stark statistics invite two questions: (a) why do only a little over one-third (36.5%) of consumers receive any rehabilitation and only 28.9% have an individually tailored recovery plan (Morgan et al., 2011)? ; and (b) what can we do to improve this situation? Below we discuss why socialcognitive remediation (SCR) for schizophrenia is important, what the potential barriers are to translating existing programs from the research environment into the clinical setting, and the importance of strong collaborations between researchers, clinicians and consumers as a way forward.
Can ISO 9001 improve service recovery?

Purpose – This study aims to investigate whether ISO 9001 certification affects and enhances the relationships among customers' perceptions of service recovery and, consequently, customer satisfaction, perceived value and loyalty. In pursuit of this objective, the study also proposes a model linking loyalty and its antecedents to investigate the factors that might influence customer satisfaction and loyalty as well as the possible mediating effects of customer satisfaction.Design/methodology/approach – An online‐based questionnaire was conducted to survey 123 online banking customers who have experienced at least one non‐routine encounter while conducting online banking. Structural equation modeling and a multi‐regression analysis were utilized to assess the relationships among the constructs.Findings – Service recovery was shown to be directly and positively related to customer satisfaction and perceived value, which, in turn, was found to significantly influence loyalty. The mediating role of satisfacti.