bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Garner's Modern English Usage
Authors: Garner Bryan A.
Published: December 2022

Over 4,500 entries

When Bryan Garner published the first edition of A Dictionary of Modern American Usage in 1999, the book quickly became one of the most influential style guides ever written for the English language. After four previous editions and over twenty years, our language has evolved in many ways, and the powerful tool of big data has revolutionized lexicography. This extensively revised new edition fully captures these changes, featuring a thousand new entries and over two hundred replacement entries, thoroughly updated usage data and ratios on word frequency based on the Google Ngram Viewer, a more balanced coverage of World Englishes, not just American and British, and the inclusion of gender-neutral language. However, one thing has not changed: in no sense is this a “regular” dictionary but a masterpiece of lexicography written with wit and personality by one of the preeminent authorities on the English language. To put it in David Foster Wallace’s words, Garner’s discussion of rhetoric and style still “borders on genius.”

From the (lost) battle between self-deprecating and self-depreciating to the misuse of it’s for its, from the variant spelling patty-cake taking over pat-a-cake in American English to the singular uses of they, Garner explains the nuances of grammar and vocabulary and the linguistic blunders to which modern writers and speakers are prone, whether in word choice, syntax, phrasing, punctuation, or pronunciation. His empirical approach liberates English from two extremes: from the “purists” who maintain that split infinitives and sentence-ending prepositions are malfeasances and from the linguistic relativists who believe that whatever people say or write must necessarily be accepted.

The purpose of Garner’s dictionary is to help writers, editors, and speakers use the language effectively. And it does so in a playful and persuasive way that will help you sound “grammatical but relaxed, refined but natural, correct but unpedantic.”
Recent advances in the regulation of root parasitic weed damage by strigolactone-related chemicals
Authors: Ito Shinsaku
Published: December 2022

Root parasitic weeds such as Striga spp. and Orobanche spp. dramatically reduce the yields of important agricultural crops and cause economic losses of over billions of US dollars worldwide. One reason for the damage by root parasitic weeds is that they germinate after specifically recognizing the host cues, strigolactones (SLs). SLs were identified ˃50 years ago as germination stimulants for root parasitic weeds, and various studies have been conducted to control parasitic weeds using SLs and related chemicals. Recently, biochemical and molecular biological approaches have revealed the SL biosynthesis and SL receptors; using these findings, various SL-related chemicals have been developed. This review summarizes recent research on SLs and their related chemicals for controlling root parasitic weeds.
Time-averaged concentration estimation of uraemic toxins with different removal kinetics: a novel approach based on intradialytic spent dialysate measurements
Authors: Paats Joosep , Adoberg Annika , Arund Jürgen , Dhondt Annemieke , Fernström Anders , Fridolin Ivo , Glorieux Griet , Gonzalez-Parra Emilio , Holmar Jana , Leis Liisi , Luman Merike , Perez-Gomez Vanessa Maria , Pilt Kristjan , Sanchez-Ospina Didier , Segelmark Mårten , Uhlin Fredrik , Ortiz Alberto
Published: December 2022

Background

Kt/Vurea is the most used marker to estimate dialysis adequacy; however, it does not reflect the removal of many other uraemic toxins, and a new approach is needed. We have assessed the feasibility of estimating intradialytic serum time-averaged concentration (TAC) of various uraemic toxins from their spent dialysate concentrations that can be estimated non-invasively online with optical methods.

Methods

Serum and spent dialysate levels and total removed solute (TRS) of urea, uric acid (UA), indoxyl sulphate (IS) and β2-microglobulin (β2M) were evaluated with laboratory methods during 312 haemodialysis sessions in 78 patients with four different dialysis treatment settings. TAC was calculated from serum concentrations and evaluated from TRS and logarithmic mean concentrations of spent dialysate (MlnD).

Results

Mean (± standard deviation) intradialytic serum TAC values of urea, UA, β2M and IS were 10.4 ± 3.8 mmol/L, 191.6 ± 48.1 µmol/L, 13.3 ± 4.3 mg/L and 82.9 ± 43.3 µmol/L, respectively. These serum TAC values were similar and highly correlated with those estimated from TRS [10.5 ± 3.6 mmol/L (R2 = 0.92), 191.5 ± 42.8 µmol/L (R2 = 0.79), 13.0 ± 3.2 mg/L (R2 = 0.59) and 82.7 ± 40.0 µmol/L (R2 = 0.85)] and from MlnD [10.7 ± 3.7 mmol/L (R2 = 0.92), 191.6 ± 43.8 µmol/L (R2 = 0.80), 12.9 ± 3.2 mg/L (R2 = 0.63) and 82.2 ± 38.6 µmol/L (R2 = 0.84)], respectively.

Conclusions

Intradialytic serum TAC of different uraemic toxins can be estimated non-invasively from their concentration in spent dialysate. This sets the stage for TAC estimation from online optical monitoring of spent dialysate concentrations of diverse solutes and for further optimization of estimation models for each uraemic toxin.
Characterization of membrane vesicles in Alteromonas macleodii indicates potential roles in their copiotrophic lifestyle
Authors: Fadeev Eduard , Carpaneto Bastos Cécile , Hennenfeind Jennifer H , Biller Steven J , Sher Daniel , Wietz Matthias , Herndl Gerhard J
Published: December 2022

Bacterial membrane vesicles (MVs) are abundant in the oceans, but their potential functional roles remain unclear. In this study we characterized MV production and protein content of six strains of Alteromonas macleodii, a cosmopolitan marine bacterium. Alteromonas macleodii strains varied in their MV production rates, with some releasing up to 30 MVs per cell per generation. Microscopy imaging revealed heterogenous MV morphologies, including some MVs aggregated within larger membrane structures. Proteomic characterization revealed that A. macleodii MVs are rich in membrane proteins related to iron and phosphate uptake, as well as proteins with potential functions in biofilm formation. Furthermore, MVs harbored ectoenzymes, such as aminopeptidases and alkaline phosphatases, which comprised up to 20% of the total extracellular enzymatic activity. Our results suggest that A. macleodii MVs may support its growth through generation of extracellular ‘hotspots’ that facilitate access to essential substrates. This study provides an important basis to decipher the ecological relevance of MVs in heterotrophic marine bacteria.
Inventorship Standards, Joint Inventorship and Procedures in Inventorship Disputes in U.S. Patent Law and German Patent Law
Authors: Gotthardt Lukas
Published: December 2022

This article deals with the standard for assessing joint inventorship in German and U.S. patent law, which is of great importance given the strong legal position that is assigned to each joint inventor as co-owner of a patent issued as a result. The article explains the criteria used by German and U.S. courts to determine whether a person is to be viewed as a joint inventor. It also deals with the remedies available to affected parties who want to defend themselves against an incorrect determination of joint inventorship. Both jurisdictions have established a similar approach to determine joint inventorship by examining the quality of the respective contributions to the invention of each possible joint inventor. The German and U.S. courts have established a low bar for granting joint inventorship status that risks assigning far-reaching legal powers to a large number of persons. In contrast to the similarities in substantive law, the remedies available are rather different in the two jurisdictions. The article concludes with a proposal for limiting the excessively broad joint inventorship standard by redefining the criterion of collaboration, which is considered an essential element of joint inventorship in both jurisdictions but has received little attention in judicial practice.
Chicosciencea Bochini, Cunha, Terossi & Almeida, 2020 is a junior subjective synonym of Microprosthema Stimpson, 1860 (Decapoda: Stenopodidea: Spongicolidae)
Authors: Goy Joseph W
Published: December 2022

A review of the morphological and phylogenetic characters of the genus ChicoscienceaBochini, Cunha, Terossi & Almeida, 2020 (Stenopodidea: Macromaxillocarididae) shows that the taxon is not a new and valid genus, and the taxon must be considered a junior subjective synonym of MicroprosthemaStimpson, 1860. All diagnostic morphological characters given for the genus are found in numerous species of Microprosthema, as well as in other genera and species of stenopodids. The molecular phylogeny proposed as part of the description of Chicosciencea is inconclusive based on the support values.
Laparoscopic repair of Morgagni hernia with extra-abdominal sutures and ileocecal resection for colon cancer: a case report
Authors: Hara Tetsuhiro , Adachi Tomohiro , Shimbara Kensuke , Kai Yuichiro , Honmyo Naruhiko , Shintakuya Ryuta , Goda Noriko , Hanaki Hideaki , Shimomura Manabu , Aoki Yoshiro , Kano Mikihiro , Tokumoto Noriaki , Kohashi Toshihiko , Hihara Jun , Funakoshi Mahito , Takahashi Shinya , Mukaida Hidenori
Published: December 2022

Morgagni hernia is a rare form of diaphragmatic hernia. It is located at the anterior edge of the diaphragm and does not have an anterior rim. It is difficult to achieve a secure closure and maintain the tension of closure with laparoscopic surgery. We have performed laparoscopic resection of colorectal cancer and hernia repair simultaneously. An 89-year-old woman underwent laparoscopic hernia repair and ileocecal resection simultaneously. Regarding hernia repair, we considered that it would be difficult to use a mesh from the viewpoint of infection due to the colectomy. Therefore, we have done the extra-abdominal suture method. After laparoscopic ileocecal resection, a small incision was made in the epigastric region, and Morgagni hernia repair was performed with extra-abdominal sutures. She had no recurrence of either colon cancer or hernia for 22 months post-operatively. The extra-abdominal suture method can provide secure closure of the hernia orifice for Morgagni hernia.
Oesophageal neuroendocrine tumours—case series of a rare malignancy
Authors: Nikolic Amanda L , Gullifer James , Johnson Mary Ann , Hii Michael W
Published: December 2022

Oesophageal neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare tumours. Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are the highest grade of NENs, with aggressive biological behaviour and poor outcomes. No standardized treatment pathways exist for these tumours, with management being individualized based on patient and tumour factors. We present five cases, four men and one women between 63 and 68 years old, who were diagnosed with symptomatic primary oesophageal NECs. Three were diagnosed with localized disease, and two were diagnosed with metastatic disease. Endoscopy, biopsy and staging scan results are outlined. Two patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Three patients with localized disease underwent oesophagectomy. Two of these patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Four patients have succumbed to their disease, with a median survival following a diagnosis of 18 months (5–34 months). This case series highlights the variability of presentation and stage at diagnosis of oesophageal NECs. Multimodal treatment is commonly utilized; however, outcomes are universally poor. Further research is required to determine the optimal treatment regimen for oesophageal NENS.
Safe management of carotid body tumor resection without preoperative embolization: an Ecuadorian high-altitude cities experience
Authors: Solis-Pazmino Paola , Pilatuna Eduardo , Tite Belen , García Mikaela , Godoy Richard , Rocha Carla , Ponce Oscar J , Dy Benzon , García Cristhian
Published: December 2022

Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are a neoplasm that affects the carotid glomus. This study aims to improve the management of CBTs in Ecuador. This single-center, retrospective observational study was conducted at the Instituto de la Tiroides y Enfermedades de Cabeza y Cuello (ITECC). We included adults with CBTs, between January 2019 and August 2022. A total of 15 patients with CBTs were included. All patients were females living at high altitudes (>2500 m). In the Shamblin classification, 12 tumors were type II, and 3 were type III. Complete tumor resection was performed in all patients without pre-operative embolization. All patients had benign CBTs with a mean follow-up of 17, 73 months. In a time when the medical cost is high mainly in low-income countries such as Ecuador, further investigation should be undertaken in the form of randomized prospective trials to answer who would benefit from the pre-TAE procedure.
Reassessment of Critical Anti-D Antibody Titer in RhD Alloimmunized Antenatal Women
Authors: Singh Bharat , Chaudhary Rajendra , Katharia Rahul
Published: December 2022

Objective

In the setting of RhD-alloimmunized pregnancy, laboratory variations in critical titer (CT) of anti-D antibody may result in needless referrals or a compromised fetal outcome.

Methods

RhD-alloimmunized pregnant women were included. Fetal outcome was categorized based on cord hemoglobin and interventions required. For 3 commonly used CTs of 8, 16, and 32, sensitivity and specificity as well as positive and negative predictive values were computed.

Results

When compared with CTs of 16 and 32, we detected 6.9% and 19.4% more cases of moderate-severe hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn by using 8 as the CT. However, this leads to greater rate of unnecessary referral (12.1%, 10/82) than a CT of 16 (8.2%, 6/73) and 32 (4.9%, 3/61). A CT of 8 demonstrated 100% sensitivity, but 12.1% (10/82) of patients were referred needlessly.

Conclusion

Because of its 100% sensitivity, we advocate decreasing the CT to 8. However, this may lead to unwarranted referrals.
Clinical and angiographic outcomes of mycophenolate versus methotrexate in South Asian patients of Takayasu arteritis: Results from an open-label, outcome-assessor blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Padiyar Shivraj , Danda Debashish , Goel Ruchika , Joseph Elizabeth , Nair Aswin M , Joseph George , Antonisamy Belavendra
Published: December 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical and angiographic responses of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) versus methotrexate (MTX) in Takayasu arteritis (TAK).

Methods

This was an open-label, outcome assessor–blinded trial. Adult patients with active TAK were randomized 1:1 to MMF 1 g twice daily or MTX 20 mg once weekly by a computer-generated program. All patients were started on 0.5 mg/kg of steroids with a predetermined tapering protocol. The primary outcome was the treatment response as defined by Indian Takayasu arteritis score at 9 months. The secondary end points included the time to first failure and angiographic progression.

Results

A total of 52 patients (26 in each arm) were recruited. The rate of responders was 71.43% (15/21) in the MMF arm and 63.64% (14/22) in the MTX arm (P = .58). The median time to the first failure was 9 months (range: 3–9) and 4.5 months (range: 3–9) in the MMF and MTX arms, respectively (P = .052). In both groups, 15% of patients (n = 3) had a progressive disease in angiography.

Conclusions

The results showed numerically better outcomes favouring MMF, with a longer time to the first failure than MTX (9 months versus 4.5 months, P = .052). No significant difference was seen in the angiographic outcomes.
Deep learning based on preoperative magnetic resonance (MR) images improves the predictive power of survival models in primary spinal cord astrocytomas
Authors: Sun Ting , Wang Yongzhi , Liu Xing , Li Zhaohui , Zhang Jie , Lu Jing , Qu Liying , Haller Sven , Duan Yunyun , Zhuo Zhizheng , Cheng Dan , Xu Xiaolu , Jia Wenqing , Liu Yaou
Published: December 2022

Background

Prognostic models for spinal cord astrocytoma patients are lacking due to the low incidence of the disease. Here, we aim to develop a fully automated deep learning (DL) pipeline for stratified overall survival (OS) prediction based on preoperative MR images.

Methods

A total of 587 patients diagnosed with intramedullary tumors were retrospectively enrolled in our hospital to develop an automated pipeline for tumor segmentation and OS prediction. The automated pipeline included a T2WI-based tumor segmentation model and 3 cascaded binary OS prediction models (1-year, 3-year, and 5-year models). For the tumor segmentation model, 439 cases of intramedullary tumors were used to model training and testing using a transfer learning strategy. A total of 138 patients diagnosed with astrocytomas were included to train and test the OS prediction models via 10 × 10-fold cross-validation using CNNs.

Results

The dice of the tumor segmentation model with the test set was 0.852. The results indicated that the best input of OS prediction models was a combination of T2W and T1C images and the tumor mask. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year automated OS prediction models achieved accuracies of 86.0%, 84.0%, and 88.0% and AUCs of 0.881 (95% CI 0.839–0.918), 0.862 (95% CI 0.827–0.901), and 0.905 (95% CI 0.867–0.942), respectively. The automated DL pipeline achieved 4-class OS prediction (<1 year, 1–3 years, 3–5 years, and >5 years) with 75.3% accuracy.

Conclusions

We proposed an automated DL pipeline for segmenting spinal cord astrocytomas and stratifying OS based on preoperative MR images.
The Telemedicine Program Design Canvas: a visual tool for planning telemedicine interventions
Authors: Verma Neha , Samuel Izabella , Weinreb Samuel , Hall Mackenzie , Zhang Kai , Bendavit Mariana , Bhirud Vibha , Shuff Jordan , Yazdi Youseph , Acharya Soumyadipta
Published: December 2022

Telemedicine has seen widespread adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic. The implementation of telemedicine projects can be complex, with over 75% of telemedicine initiatives failing in the implementation phase. Health organizations that want to adopt telemedicine as part of their healthcare delivery programs struggle to plan and implement sustainable and scalable initiatives effectively. This paper presents the Telemedicine Program Design Canvas—a tool to guide health organizations in planning telemedicine interventions and drive intervention success. It was developed and validated through six workshops with users and stakeholders of telemedicine. Based on the workshops and the lessons learned from the subsequent interventions of these projects, we identified the 14 key elements that must be addressed while planning and implementing a telemedicine project. We organized these into a simple visual tool that health organizations could use. The 14 elements include the problem, ecosystem, patients, patient journey, patient engagement and trust, providers, provider training, provider engagement, channels, technology, medicines and diagnostics, desired outcomes, costs and revenues. The tool was then tested and validated by applying it with a new group of six telemedicine projects. Overall, the perspectives of 108 users and stakeholders of telemedicine projects, including organizational leadership, doctors, nurses, midwives, community health workers, patients, policymakers, technologists, legal and finance experts, were included in the development of the tool. The Telemedicine Program Design Canvas provides a structured and straightforward method for the rapid prototyping and holistic planning of telemedicine interventions.
Botrytis cinerea identifies host plants via the recognition of antifungal capsidiol to induce expression of a specific detoxification gene
Authors: Kuroyanagi Teruhiko , Bulasag Abriel Salaria , Fukushima Keita , Ashida Akira , Suzuki Takamasa , Tanaka Aiko , Camagna Maurizio , Sato Ikuo , Chiba Sotaro , Ojika Makoto , Takemoto Daigo
Published: December 2022

The gray mold pathogen Botrytis cinerea has a broad host range, causing disease in >400 plant species, but it is not known how this pathogen evolved this polyxenous nature. Botrytis cinerea can metabolize a wide range of phytoalexins, including the stilbenoid resveratrol in grape, and the sesquiterpenoids capsidiol in tobacco and rishitin in potato and tomato. In this study, we analyzed the metabolism of sesquiterpenoid phytoalexins by B. cinerea. Capsidiol was dehydrogenated to capsenone, which was then further oxidized, while rishitin was directly oxidized to epoxy- or hydroxyrishitins, indicating that B. cinerea has separate mechanisms to detoxify structurally similar sesquiterpenoid phytoalexins. RNA-seq analysis revealed that a distinct set of genes were induced in B. cinerea when treated with capsidiol or rishitin, suggesting that B. cinerea can distinguish structurally similar phytoalexins to activate appropriate detoxification mechanisms. The gene most highly upregulated by capsidiol treatment encoded a dehydrogenase, designated Bccpdh. Heterologous expression of Bccpdh in a capsidiol-sensitive plant symbiotic fungus, Epichloë festucae, resulted in an acquired tolerance of capsidiol and the ability to metabolize capsidiol to capsenone, while B. cinerea Δbccpdh mutants became relatively sensitive to capsidiol. The Δbccpdh mutant showed reduced virulence on the capsidiol producing Nicotiana and Capsicum species but remained fully pathogenic on potato and tomato. Homologs of Bccpdh are found in taxonomically distant Ascomycota fungi but not in related Leotiomycetes species, suggesting that B. cinerea acquired the ancestral Bccpdh by horizontal gene transfer, thereby extending the pathogenic host range of this polyxenous pathogen to capsidiol-producing plant species.
“Scum (of the Earth)”: Incarcerated Mothers’ Experiences of Slow Violence
Authors: Fedock Gina , Doria Celina , Malcome Marion
Published: December 2022

Incarcerated mothers experience multiple forms of harm embedded within the criminal legal system, yet relatively little attention has been paid to incarcerated mothers’ experiences of slow violence, violence whose harm occurs gradually over time, often in mundane and disregarded ways. We conducted semi-structured interviews with incarcerated mothers to explore their parenting experiences while in prison and analyzed their experiences through the frame of slow violence. The findings include salient themes of environmentally hazardous prison conditions that negatively impacted their health; broken phones that disrupted communication with and parenting of their children; and unending waitlists that jeopardized their parenting rights and delayed reunification with their children. We situate these findings within the framework of slow violence to highlight the insidious and overlooked forms of harm in the prison environment which impacted aspects of incarcerated mothers’ wellbeing. We argue that understanding incarcerated mothers’ experiences within this framework draws attention to ways that state actors, as well as common theoretical framings of incarceration dynamics, perpetuate and normalize the suffering of incarcerated mothers. By reframing the harms of incarceration as acts of slow violence, new insights are gleaned for theorizing and addressing violence against incarcerated women.
Root Absorption and Limited Mobility of Mandipropamid as Compared to Oxathiapiprolin and Mefenoxam After Soil Treatment of Citrus Plants for Managing Phytophthora Root Rot
Authors: Belisle Rodger J. , Hao Wei , Riley Nathan , Förster Helga , Adaskaveg James E.
Published: December 2022

Phytophthora root rot can greatly impact citrus production worldwide, especially in newly established orchards by reducing crop yield and increasing the cost of disease management. Mandipropamid is an Oomycota fungicide that is currently registered as a soil treatment for citrus nursery container plants to manage Phytophthora root rot. In this study, we investigated the uptake of mandipropamid into citrus roots and its translocation to stems and leaves after soil application and evaluated its mobility in roots as compared to oxathiapiprolin and mefenoxam using split-root potted plants and trees in the field. A bioassay and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were used to detect and quantify fungicides in citrus tissues, and overall, similar results were obtained using the two methods. When applied to the soil of potted, 6- to 7-month-old citrus plants using labeled rates, the majority of mandipropamid was found in root tissues (4.9 to 18.1 μg/g), but small amounts were also present in stems (0.18 to 0.32 μg/g) and leaves (0.03 to 0.22 μg/g). There was no significant increase in concentrations in all three tissues between 1 and 4 weeks after application. Concentrations in all tissues exceeded established EC50 values for mycelial growth inhibition of P. citrophthora and P. nicotianae, the main citrus root rot pathogens in California. In a split-root study where the root systems of single plants were separated, no basipetal phloem-based mobility of mandipropamid or oxathiapiprolin was observed, but relative uptake into roots was higher for mandipropamid. In contrast, low amounts of mefenoxam were also present in roots in the untreated soil. Similar results were obtained in a field study where part of the root system was treated, and fungicides were extracted from nontreated roots. All three fungicides persisted inside roots over the 8-week period of this study. Uptake and persistence inside roots, as well as the previously reported high efficacy against citrus root rot in greenhouse and field studies support the use of mandipropamid in citrus nurseries and potentially in the orchard.
New Preharvest Treatments and Strategies in Managing Phytophthora Brown Rot of Citrus in California
Authors: Hao Wei , Förster Helga , Belisle Rodger J. , Adaskaveg James E.
Published: December 2022

Brown rot caused by Phytophthora citrophthora, P. nicotianae, P. syringae, and P. hibernalis is an important fruit disease of citrus in California, and the latter two species are quarantine pathogens in some important export markets. The newly registered fungicides oxathiapiprolin (OXA) and mandipropamid (MAN), as well as a premixture of the two (MAN + OXA) were compared with standard fixed copper and potassium phosphite (KPO3) treatments (all with different modes of action) under field conditions in two citrus production regions of California. Fruit were sampled periodically over 8 weeks after application in winter or spring seasons, inoculated with zoospores of P. citrophthora or P. syringae, and brown rot incidence was evaluated. Single applications with all fungicides significantly reduced brown rot incidence of fruit harvested after 8 weeks as compared with the control in seasons with different amounts of precipitation (i.e., 17.2 to 153.9 mm between application and the 8-week sampling). MAN and OXA were similarly or significantly more effective than copper or KPO3. Two applications done in November and January significantly improved the efficacy of KPO3 and copper when compared with a single application of each fungicide done in January. For MAN and OXA, however, a single application was similar in efficacy as two applications. Two-application rotations of MAN, OXA, MAN + OXA, or copper significantly reduced the disease incidence by >84% from the control for at least 8 weeks after the second application. Low-volume (935 liters/ha) applications of MAN, OXA, MAN + OXA, or KPO3, but not copper, were significantly more effective than industry standard high-volume (3,740 liters/ha) applications. Thus, our studies identified and supported registration of new preharvest fungicide treatments to manage brown rot of citrus that are highly effective and persistent, and we optimized treatment strategies. Additionally, rotational programs with fungicides with different modes of action will minimize resistance development in pathogen populations and extend the usage of these fungicides.
Imaging Features of Acute Pancreatitis and the Revised Atlanta Classification System
Authors: Bui Hillary , Seidler Michael
Published: December 2022

Acute pancreatitis is a major cause of hospital admissions in the United States, with the two primary causes being gallstones and alcohol.1 The Atlanta classification system is an international classification on the severity of acute pancreatitis. In 2012, deficiencies and outdated nomenclature were removed to make a revised system that take into account advancements in research and clinical management. The revised Atlanta classification system (RACS) in 2012 standardized the nomenclature for acute pancreatitis and local complications to facilitate effective communication between clinicians and radiologists alike. Older terms such as pancreatic abscess, phlegmon, acute pseudocyst, and fluid collection are no longer used, as they are vague and can be misleading.
Neutrophilic inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Delemarre Tim , Bachert Claus
Published: December 2022

Purpose of review

Over the last years, extensive research has been done on neutrophils and their contribution in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and made it clear that they are more than just a bystander in this disease. In this article, we will review all recent publications on this topic and look to what the future hold regarding therapeutics targeting the neutrophilic inflammation in CRS.

Recent findings

Evidence is growing that the presence of neutrophils are associated with a worse disease outcome in certain CRS patient groups. They are highly activated in type 2 inflammations and exhibit damaging properties through their proteases, contributing to the chronicity of the disease. Several recent studies identified useful biomarkers and targets for future therapeutics.

The findings we review in this manuscript are of utmost importance in unraveling the complexity of CRS and provide us with the necessary knowledge for future clinical practices.
Cetuximab severe cutaneous toxicity… a gateway for bacteremia: case report
Authors: Soueidy Charbel , Skaff Stephanie , Stephan Farid , Kattan Joseph
Published: December 2022

EGFR inhibitors used in the treatment of metastatic wild-RAS colorectal cancer in combination with chemotherapy are associated with dermatologic side events that are low grade in most cases. We report a case of severe cutaneous toxicity secondary to cetuximab associated with bacterial cellulitis. A 57-year-old woman with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon, receiving FOLFIRI and Cetuximab as a first-line treatment, presented with a severe erythematous rash and xerosis resistant to local treatment with moisturizing emollients. Few days later, the patient becomes febrile, and the rash becomes more diffuse with a sandpaper appearance on the face, neck, chest, and flexor creases with exfoliation of large areas of skin. A bacterial cellulitis secondary to a dermatologic severe toxicity of Cetuximab was suspected. The patient started on antibiotics and local treatment with good response. This is a life-threatening cutaneous toxicity of cetuximab with secondary bacterial infection. Early recognition of cutaneous side effects of EGFR inhibitors is important to prevent such type of toxicities.
CircPIM3 regulates taxol resistance in non-small cell lung cancer via miR-338-3p/TNFAIP8 axis
Authors: Du Lin , Guo Dan , Sun Cheng , Yan Xiaolu , Lin Sixiang , Xu Shaohua
Published: December 2022

Numerous work has revealed the involvement of circular RNA (circRNA) in regulating chemotherapy resistance. Here, we investigate circPIM3 role in taxol (Tax) resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). CircPIM3, microRNA (miR)-338-3p and tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced protein-8 (TNFAIP8) expression were detected via quantitative real-time PCR, western blot or immunohistochemistry assay. Tax resistance was evaluated using cell counting kit-8, cell proliferation was measured by colony formation assay, cell cycle and apoptosis were examined via flow cytometry. The interplay between miR-338-3p and circPIM3 or TNFAIP8 was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, the effect of circPIM3 on Tax resistance in NSCLC in vivo was investigated by xenograft models. CircPIM3 and TNFAIP8 were upregulated in Tax-resistant NSCLC tissue and cell samples. Reducing circPIM3 expression inhibited Tax resistance, proliferation and induced cycle arrest and apoptosis in Tax-resistant NSCLC cells. Mechanically, circPIM3 absence led to downregulation of TNFAIP8 via absorbing miR-338-3p. Additionally, circPIM3 depletion increased Tax sensitivity of NSCLC in vivo. Silencing of circPIM3 suppressed Tax resistance in Tax-resistant NSCLC cells through regulation of the miR-338-3p/TNFAIP8 axis.
COVID-19 Vaccination Response and Its Practical Application in Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Shadman Mazyar , Liu Catherine , Eakle Katherine , Hiew Hwai J. , Biondo Juliana M.L. , Ghia Paolo , Mato Anthony R.
Published: December 2022

Patients with chronic lymphocyticleukemia (CLL) typically have innate/adaptive immune system dysregulation, thus the protective effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination remains uncertain. This prospective review evaluates vaccination response in these patients, including seropositivity rates by CLL treatment status, type of treatment received, and timing of vaccination. Antibody persistence, predictors of poor vaccine response, and severity of COVID-19 infection in vaccinated patients were also analyzed. Practical advice on the clinical management of patients with CLL is provided. Articles reporting COVID-19 vaccination in patients with CLL, published January 1, 2021–May 1, 2022, were included. Patients with CLL displayed the lowest vaccination responses among hematologic malignancies; however, seropositivity increased with each vaccination. One of the most commonly reported independent risk factors for poor vaccine response was active CLL treatment; others included hypogammaglobulinemia and age >65–70 years. Patients who were treatment-naive, off therapy, in remission, or who had a prior COVID-19 infection displayed the greatest responses. Further data are needed on breakthrough infection rates and a heterologous booster approach in patients with hematologic malignancies. Although vaccine response was poor for patients on active therapy regardless of treatment type, CLL management in the context of COVID-19 should aim to avoid delays in antileukemic treatment, especially with the advent of numerous strategies to mitigate risk of severe COVID-19 such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, and highly effective antivirals and monoclonal antibody therapy upon confirmed infection. Patients with CLL should remain vigilant in retaining standard prevention measures such as masks, social distancing, and hand hygiene.
Machine Learning Improves Risk Stratification in Myelofibrosis: An Analysis of the Spanish Registry of Myelofibrosis
Authors: Mosquera-Orgueira Adrián , Pérez-Encinas Manuel , Hernández-Sánchez Alberto , González-Martínez Teresa , Arellano-Rodrigo Eduardo , Martínez-Elicegui Javier , Villaverde-Ramiro Ángela , Raya José-María , Ayala Rosa , Ferrer-Marín Francisca , Fox María-Laura , Velez Patricia , Mora Elvira , Xicoy Blanca , Mata-Vázquez María-Isabel , García-Fortes María , Angona Anna , Cuevas Beatriz , Senín María-Alicia , Ramírez-Payer Angel , Ramírez María-José , Pérez-López Raúl , González de Villambrosía Sonia , Martínez-Valverde Clara , Gómez-Casares María-Teresa , García-Hernández Carmen , Gasior Mercedes , Bellosillo Beatriz , Steegmann Juan-Luis , Álvarez-Larrán Alberto , Hernández-Rivas Jesús María , Hernández-Boluda Juan Carlos ,   on behalf of the Spanish MPN Group (GEMFIN).
Published: December 2022

Myelofibrosis (MF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) with heterogeneous clinical course. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation remains the only curative therapy, but its morbidity and mortality require careful candidate selection. Therefore, accurate disease risk prognostication is critical for treatment decision-making. We obtained registry data from patients diagnosed with MF in 60 Spanish institutions (N = 1386). These were randomly divided into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%). A machine learning (ML) technique (random forest) was used to model overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) in the training set, and the results were validated in the test set. We derived the AIPSS-MF (Artificial Intelligence Prognostic Scoring System for Myelofibrosis) model, which was based on 8 clinical variables at diagnosis and achieved high accuracy in predicting OS (training set c-index, 0.750; test set c-index, 0.744) and LFS (training set c-index, 0.697; test set c-index, 0.703). No improvement was obtained with the inclusion of MPN driver mutations in the model. We were unable to adequately assess the potential benefit of including adverse cytogenetics or high-risk mutations due to the lack of these data in many patients. AIPSS-MF was superior to the IPSS regardless of MF subtype and age range and outperformed the MYSEC-PM in patients with secondary MF. In conclusion, we have developed a prediction model based exclusively on clinical variables that provides individualized prognostic estimates in patients with primary and secondary MF. The use of AIPSS-MF in combination with predictive models that incorporate genetic information may improve disease risk stratification.
CHOROIDAL VASCULAR ALTERATIONS IN AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION AND POLYPOIDAL CHOROIDAL VASCULOPATHY
Authors: Cheung Chui Ming Gemmy , Wong Mark Yu Zheng , Teo Kelvin Yi Chong
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate morphologic alterations in choroidal veins in eyes with typical neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Methods:

A retrospective review of baseline indocyanine green angiography in eyes with typical nAMD and PCV. We evaluated Haller layer veins in the early-phase indocyanine green angiography (before 2 minutes) for 1) macular anastomosis, 2) dilated Haller veins, and 3) focal variation in vessel caliber by at least 50% from the narrowest to largest diameters.

Results:

We included 70 patients with gradable indocyanine green angiography for the prespecified features in the study eye (36 typical nAMD and 34 PCV) and 59 fellow eyes. The median subfoveal choroidal thickness was 167 µm versus 219 µm, P = 0.08, in the presenting eyes in typical nAMD and PCV, respectively. Macular anastomosis was common in both typical nAMD and PCV (presenting eyes 58.3% vs. 58.8%. P = 0.97; fellow eyes 65.5% vs. 63.3%, P = 0.86). Dilated Haller veins were numerically less common in typical nAMD than PCV (presenting eyes 52.8% vs. 67.6%, P = 0.21; fellow eyes 65.5% vs. 70.0%, P = 0.71), while vascular caliber variation was numerically more common in typical nAMD than PCV (presenting eyes 72.2% vs. 63.8%, P = 0.45; fellow eyes 69.0% vs. 56.7%, P = 0.33). The presence of all three features was more common in the presenting eyes with PCV compared with typical nAMD (35.3% vs. 13.9%, P = 0.03). In a multivariable analysis, every increase of 100 µm of CT conferred a 2.75 risk of having all three features present.

Conclusion:

Choroidal vascular remodeling is common in both tAMD and PCV but may be driven by different stimuli.
Heart Failure Knowledge, Symptom Perception, and Symptom Management in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Wu Jia-Rong , Lin Chin-Yen , Hammash Muna , Moser Debra K.
Published: December 2022

Background

Prevention of heart failure (HF) exacerbations requires that patients carefully self-manage their condition. Symptom perception is a key component in self-care for patients with HF that involves monitoring for HF symptoms and recognizing symptom changes. Heart failure knowledge is a prerequisite for better symptom perception and symptom management. However, the relationships among HF knowledge, symptom perception, and symptom management remain unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the inter-relationships among HF knowledge, symptom monitoring, symptom recognition, and symptom response in patients with HF.

Method

We included 185 patients with HF in this study. Heart failure knowledge was measured using the Dutch HF Knowledge Scale. Symptom monitoring, symptom recognition, and symptom response were measured using the Self-care of HF Index. Structural equation modeling was used for data analyses.

Results

Heart failure knowledge was associated with symptom monitoring (β = .357, P < .001). Symptom monitoring was directly associated with both symptom recognition (β = .371, P < .001) and symptom response (β = .499, P < .001). Symptom recognition was directly associated with symptom response (β = .274, P < .001). Heart failure knowledge was not directly associated with symptom recognition, nor with symptom response. Heart failure knowledge was indirectly associated with symptom recognition and symptom response through symptom monitoring.

Conclusion

Symptom monitoring is associated with both symptom recognition and symptom response and is a mediator between HF knowledge and symptom recognition and between HF knowledge and symptom response. This finding suggests that it is important for clinicians not just to increase patients' HF knowledge but also to enhance their skills of symptom monitoring and symptom recognition and promote symptom monitoring among patients to improve symptom response in self-care.
Update on management of paediatric dyslipidaemia
Authors: Bansal Nidhi , Kumar Seema , Brar Preneet Cheema
Published: December 2022

Purpose of review

Atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular risk factors originate in childhood; hence, early management of dyslipidaemia is vital. However, hypercholesterolemia remains untreated or undertreated in many youths. We review current therapies, drugs under investigation and consider potential future directions for the management of paediatric dyslipidaemia to highlight the recent evidence and new therapeutic options for future use.

Recent findings

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in childhood, including dyslipidaemia, are associated with CVD risk and clinical CVD events in adulthood. Recent data show that initiation of statin therapy in childhood in children with familial hypercholesterolemia reduces the risk of CVD in adulthood. Several well tolerated and efficacious treatment options have become available in recent times for the management of dyslipidaemia in youth. Many new lipid-lowering drugs are under investigation to widen the available choices. Some of these drugs are now available for use in paediatrics, while some remain targets for future use.

We review available treatment options for paediatric dyslipidaemia management, discuss potential limitations and propose future directions. We also acknowledge the need for continued research in paediatrics for optimal paediatric dyslipidaemia management.
Addressing Nurses' Well-being in the 2023 Magnet® Application Manual
Authors: Sigur Sharina A. , Walters-Threat Lois
Published: December 2022

The well-being of “America's Most Trusted Profession” is imperative during these tumultuous times. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses have persistently cared for others, sometimes at the cost of their own well-being. The 2023 Magnet® Application Manual has introduced well-being into its application requirements to ensure healthcare organizations and nurse leaders incorporate structures and processes to support nurses' well-being.
Coaching to Bedside Shift Report and Its Correlation to Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems and Value-Based Purchasing Dimension Scores
Authors: O'Donnell Lauren , George Elisabeth , Donnelly James , Bilderback Andrew , Buchanan Dan
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this multihospital study was to investigate how the intervention of coaching to bedside shift report (BSR) correlates with Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) outcomes and relates to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program points over a 4-year period (2017-2020) for an acute care hospital health system.

BACKGROUND

Hospital leaders' responsibilities include intertwined areas of patient experience and fiscal accountability. Coaching to BSR is reported to have numerous benefits to the patient's experience. Published studies completed with hospital systems evaluating the intervention of coaching to BSR and how it correlated to patient experience and VBP are limited.

METHODS

Coaching to BSR was implemented at 16 adult acute care hospitals. Patient-reported BSR rates were collected in tandem with HCAHPS for 4 years. Statistical correlations were assessed between patient-reported BSR and HCAHPS and consequential effect on VBP dimension scores.

RESULTS

Coaching to BSR had a significant impact on top- and bottom-box “rate the hospital” HCAHPS scores at a system and hospital level. Value-based purchasing points and percentages increased over 2017-2020, potentially leading to lower CMS penalty claims over the period the BSR was implemented.

CONCLUSIONS

Coaching is a key factor when creating a favorable patient experience. The implementation and sustainability of coaching to BSR may result in improved patient experience ratings and increase VBP point accumulation to hospital systems.
Assessing the Effectiveness Between Nurse Educator and Clinical Coach Critical Care Training Programs for New Graduate Nurses in the ICU
Authors: Blass Tammy , McFee Ruth , Hunt Debra , Francone Maybeth , Nguyen Samantha , Vermillion Greg , Canamar Catherine , Sarff Laura
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the differences in effectiveness between nurse educator–led and clinical coach–led intensive care unit (ICU) training programs for new graduate nurses.

BACKGROUND

New graduate ICU nurses require substantial clinical training, which is often provided by peers serving as clinical coaches who have not been formally trained for an educator role. Our medical center successfully transitioned from a nurse educator–led to clinical coach–led model for initial ICU education after formally training the clinical coaches.

METHODS

Nurses enrolled in nurse educator–led (n = 114) or clinical coach–led (n = 166) ICU clinical training programs were compared on program pass rate, satisfaction, preparedness, turnover, and competence.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between the groups on any of the identified measures of program effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Both educator-led and clinical coach–led models, with appropriate training, effectively prepared ICU nurses in this setting. Implementing a clinical coaching model for ICU training of new graduate nurses could assuage common resource issues, such as a shortage of nurse educators, as well as address the increasing demand for well-trained ICU nurses.