bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
German Crimes and Italian Money?
Authors: Caroli Paolo
Published: February 2023

On 29 June 2022, the Italian Parliament approved Law no. 79, which converted — with amendments — Article 43 of Decree-Law no. 36/2022 of 30 April 2022 into law, possibly marking the final stage of the long saga of the German–Italian dispute over Germany’s civil liability for Nazi crimes against the Italian population during World War II. The Decree-Law was originally issued, as a matter of urgency, with a specific purpose: the Italian government intended to prevent the Federal Republic of Germany from suffering the loss of a significant real estate asset, located in Rome, due to the execution proceedings before the Court of Rome. However, the purpose of this legislative measure was not solely to avert this scenario in the short term. On the contrary, with the Decree-Law, now converted into law, the singular result has been reached that the Italian state will pay all compensation owed to victims of Nazi massacres on behalf of Germany. The article contextualizes the new provision, analysing the saga of Germany’s civil liability in parallel with the criminal prosecutions of Nazi criminals in Italy, both after the war and in more recent years. It provides critical evaluations and proposes hypotheses on possible future scenarios.
Editorial
Authors: Britten Anna
Published: February 2023

Environmental statisticians are real eco-warriors
Registering Particle Data Sets Using a Rotation and Translation Invariant Nearest-Neighbor Algorithm
Authors: Ritchie Nicholas W M , Wight Scott , Ortiz-Montalvo Diana , Lindstrom Abigail P
Published: February 2023

It can be useful to register (or align) two sets of particle data measured from the same physical sample. However, if the two data sets were collected at different translational or rotational offsets, finding the optimal registration can be a challenge. We will present an algorithm that efficiently determines the rotation and translational offset that best registers (in a least-squares sense) the corresponding particles in two or more data sets measured from the same sample. This algorithm can be used to merge two data sets that have been collected on overlapping but otherwise distinct regions on the sample. Alternatively, it can be used to overlay data sets that have been collected on the same sample area to compare replicate data for quality control and measurement efficiency purposes.
The PARP inhibitor Rucaparib synergizes with radiation to attenuate atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor growth
Authors: Alimova Irina , Murdock Gillian , Pierce Angela , Wang Dong , Madhavan Krishna , Brunt Breauna , Venkataraman Sujatha , Vibhakar Rajeev
Published: February 2023

Background

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are highly aggressive pediatric brain tumors. The available treatments rely on toxic chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which themselves can cause poor outcomes in young patients. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP), multifunctional enzymes which play an important role in DNA damage repair and genome stability have emerged as a new target in cancer therapy. An FDA-approved drug screen revealed that Rucaparib, a PARP inhibitor, is important for ATRT cell growth. This study aims to investigate the effect of Rucaparib treatment in ATRT.

Methods

This study utilized cell viability, colony formation, flow cytometry, western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry assays to investigate Rucaparib’s effectiveness in BT16 and MAF737 ATRT cell lines. In vivo, intracranial orthotopic xenograft model of ATRT was used. BT16 cell line was transduced with a luciferase-expressing vector and injected into the cerebellum of athymic nude mice. Animals were treated with Rucaparib by oral gavaging and irradiated with 2 Gy of radiation for 3 consecutive days. Tumor growth was monitored using In Vivo Imaging System.

Results

Rucaparib treatment decreased ATRT cell growth, inhibited clonogenic potential of ATRT cells, induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and led to DNA damage accumulation as shown by increased expression of γH2AX. In vivo, Rucaparib treatment decreased tumor growth, sensitized ATRT cells to radiation and significantly increased mice survival.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that Rucaparib has potential to be a new therapeutic strategy for ATRT as seen by its ability to decrease ATRT tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo.
Population-Based Incidence and Characteristics of AdultEscherichia coliBloodstream Infection in Queensland, Australia, From 2000 to 2019
Authors: Ling Weiping , Paterson David L , Harris Patrick N A , Furuya-Kanamori Luis , Edwards Felicity , Laupland Kevin B
Published: February 2023

Background

There is increasing morbidity and mortality attributed to escalating incidence of Escherichia coli bloodstream infection (BSI). The epidemiology of E. coli BSI is dynamic and differs across populations. This study aimed to describe this epidemiology in Queensland, Australia.

Methods

Incident E. coli BSIs (new or recurring ≥30 days from previous BSI) in adult (≥15 years) Queenslanders were identified from 2000 to 2019 using Queensland Health databases. Incidence rates, crude and standardized by age and gender, were calculated. Negative binomial regressions were performed to determine predictors of E. coli BSI incidence.

Results

From 2000 to 2019, 30 350 E. coli BSIs in 27 793 patients were detected; the standardized incidence rate almost doubled from 34.1 to 65.9 cases per 100 000 residents. Predictors of higher incidence rate were older age (≥65 years), comorbidity, and community-onset infection. Despite holding these factors constant, the incidence rate was estimated to increase 4% (adjusted incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03–1.04) annually over the study period. Approximately 4.2% of E. coli isolates produced extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL-Ec), with most (95%) detected after 2010. The incidence rate of ESBL-Ec increased 25% (IRR, 1.25%; 95% CI, 1.2–1.3) annually, significantly faster than that of non-producers. Amikacin and carbapenems remain effective in vitro against ESBL-Ec BSI in Queensland.

Conclusions

The rise in E. coli BSIs is driven both by a higher infection rate and shifting epidemiology toward community-onset infections. These are likely attributed to an aging Australian population with increasing chronic comorbidity. The rapid expansion of ESBL-Ec in recent years is concerning and should be acknowledged for its implication in the community.
Screening the Soybean Nested Association Mapping (SoyNAM) Parents for Resistance Toward Isolates of Phytophthora sojae, Fusarium graminearum, and Species of Globisporangium
Authors: Bolanos-Carriel Carlos , Balk Christine , Wickamasinghe Damitha K. , Acharya Bhupendra , Dorrance Anne E.
Published: February 2023

The Soybean Nested Association Mapping (SoyNAM) populations were developed from 40 parents and have been used to map genes underlying complex traits such as yield and disease resistance. Soilborne pathogens that affect soybean seed and seedlings result in significant losses due to reduced stands and costs associated with replanting. This study compared the response of these 40 SoyNAM parent genotypes to seed- and seedling-rot pathogens Fusarium graminearum, Phytophthora sojae, Globisporangium ultimum var. ultimum, G. ultimum var. sporangiiferum, G. irregulare groups 1 and 2, and G. cryptoirregulare. None of the parental genotypes conferred high levels of resistance to F. graminearum or G. ultimum var. sporangiiferum. Of the 40 parental genotypes, 15 were resistant to P. sojae OH1 (vir 7), indicating that they contain Rps genes, whereas the remaining (including the common parent IA3023) do not have Rps genes. Based on inoculations with known P. sojae pathotypes, Rps1c was the most common, followed by Rps1a, as both Rps genes confer resistance to isolates OH4 (vir 1a, 1c, 7) and OH25 (vir 1a, 1b, 1c, 1k, 7). Eight of the SoyNAM parents had higher levels of partial resistance to P. sojae than Conrad (a cultivar with moderate resistance). There was moderate resistance to G. ultimum var. ultimum among the 40 parents and to G. irregulare subpopulations among the six parents that were evaluated. The SoyNAM parental lines and populations are an excellent resource available for soybean breeders to advance the development of new cultivars with improved resistance to some soilborne pathogens.
Leveraging the microbiome in the treatment of sepsis: potential pitfalls and new perspectives
Authors: Biemond Jason J. , McDonald Braedon , Haak Bastiaan W.
Published: February 2023

Purpose of review

This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge about microbiota-targeted therapies in sepsis, and calls out – despite recent negative studies – not to halt our efforts of translating these tools into regular medical practice.

Recent findings

The intestinal microbiome has an important role in shaping our immune system, and microbiota-derived metabolites prime innate and adaptive inflammatory responses to infectious pathogens. Microbiota composition is severely disrupted during sepsis, which has been linked to increased risk of mortality and secondary infections. However, efforts of using these microbes as a tool for prognostic or therapeutic purposes have been unsuccessful so far, and recent trials studying the impact of probiotics in critical illness did not improve patient outcomes. Despite these negative results, researchers must continue their attempts of harnessing the microbiome to improve sepsis survival in patients with a high risk of clinical deterioration. Promising research avenues that could potentially benefit sepsis patients include the development of next-generation probiotics, use of the microbiome as a theranostic tool to direct therapy, and addressing the restoration of microbial communities following ICU discharge.

Although research focused on microbiome-mediated therapy in critically ill patients has not yielded the results that were anticipated, we should not abandon our efforts to translate promising preclinical findings into clinical practice.
Novel nutritional strategies to prevent muscle wasting
Authors: McClelland Thomas J. , Davies Thomas , Puthucheary Zudin
Published: February 2023

Purpose of review

Muscle wasting in critical illness has proven to be refractory to physical rehabilitation, and to conventional nutritional strategies. This presents one of the central challenges to critical care medicine in the 21st century. Novel strategies are needed that facilitate nutritional interventions, identify patients that will benefit and have measurable, relevant benefits.

Recent findings

Drug repurposing was demonstrated to be a powerful technique in the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, and may have similar applications to address the metabolic derangements of critical illness. Newer biological signatures may aid the application of these techniques and the association between changes in urea:creatinine ratio and the development of skeletal muscle wasting is increasing. A core outcome set for nutrition interventions in critical illness, supported by multiple international societies, was published earlier this year should be adopted by future nutrition trials aiming to attenuate muscle wasting.

The evidence base for the lack of efficacy for conventional nutritional strategies in preventing muscle wasting in critically ill patients continues to grow. Novel strategies such as metabolic modulators, patient level biological signatures of nutritional response and standardized outcome for measurements of efficacy will be central to future research and clinical care of the critically ill patient.
Effect of VEGF on neurological impairment and prognosis of acute cerebral infarction patients: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Tian Yong , Niu Hai-Tao , Li Ming-Hang , Wang Yang-Zhou
Published: February 2023

Objective:

Due to the complex pathological mechanism of acute cerebral infarction, the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on the disease is not clear. Therefore, a retrospective case-control study was performed to explore the effect of VEGF on neurological impairment and prognosis of acute cerebral infarction patients.

Method:

A total of 100 patients with acute cerebral infarction admitted to our hospital from April 2021 to April 2022 were selected. Blood samples from all patients would be routinely collected to detect the expression of serum VEGF. Pearson chi-square, Spearman correlation and univariate Logistic regression were used to analyze the clinical data to explore the relationship between VEGF expression and basic information, stroke degree, quality of life, and prognosis of patients. To determine whether VEGF can provide relevant basis for the early prevention and prognostic treatment of acute cerebral infarction. And multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio between each variable and VEGF expression.

Results:

Pearson chi-square test and Spearman correlation coefficient showed that sex, degree of stroke, limb convulsions, loss of consciousness, hemiplegia, aphasia, mental functioning score, overall quality of life score, and short-term prognosis were significantly correlated with VEGF expression in 100 patients. Univariate logistic regression was used to describe the ORs and 95% confidence interval of subjects at the univariate level, and the degree of stroke (OR = 83.333, P < 0.001), tic of limbs (OR = 26.316, P < 0.001), loss of consciousness (OR = 23.256, P < 0.001), hemiplegia (OR = 62.500, P < 0.001), aphasia (OR = 76.923, P < 0.001), mental functioning score (OR = 7.937, P < 0.001), overall quality of life score (OR = 5.464, P < 0.001), short-term prognosis (OR = 37.037, P < 0.001) was significantly correlated with the high expression of VEGF.

Conclusions:

The level of serum VEGF was positively correlated with neurological impairment degree and prognosis in patients with acute cerebral infarction, the more severe the degree of stroke and the worse the prognosis.
Clinical outcomes for Clostridioides difficile associated diarrhea in inflammatory bowel disease patients versus non-IBD population: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Drozdinsky Genady , Atamna Alaa , Banai Hagar , Ben-Zvi Haim , Bishara Jihad , Eliakim-Raz Noa
Published: February 2023

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a higher incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Previous studies have demonstrated negative clinical outcomes in IBD patients with CDI compared to patients without CDI. The clinical presentation of CDI is indistinguishable from IBD exacerbation, thus posing a frequent clinical dilemma on the role of Clostridioides infection in the testing, diagnosis, and treatment of these patients. To compare clinical outcomes of CDI in patients with IBD to those without IBD. Retrospective cohort of adult patients admitted to Rabin Medical Center Israel between the years 2014 and 2020 with a concurrent diagnosis of IBD and CDI. Matching 1:2 was performed between the IBD patients and the non-IBD population with respect to age and sex. Sixty-seven patients with IBD and 134 patients without IBD were included in the study. The groups’ median age was 40.6 (interquartile range [IQR] of 29.8–68.9), with 45.8% male and 54.2% female. The non-IBD group had a higher Charlson score with 2 (IQR 0; 5) versus 0 (IQR 0; 4) in the IBD group (P value <.01). Patients with IBD had more exposure to systemic antibiotics, 71.1% versus 26.3% (P value <.01). In a multivariable analysis we found no difference in 90-day mortality and rate of relapse between the 2 study groups with an odds ratio of 1.709 (95% confidence interval 0.321–9.905) and odds ratio of 0.209 (95% confidence interval 0.055–1.513) respectively. In our cohort patients with IBD who present with diarrhea and concomitant CDI have similar rates of relapse and mortality compared with patients without IBD.
Nasal drip of dexmedetomidine for optimal sedation during PICC insertion in pediatric burn care
Authors: Lu Yanxu , Peng Cheng , Xie Li , Wu Ying , Gu Lifang , Li Sha
Published: February 2023

Background:

For peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) inserting, tranquil cooperation of children for an extended period is often required. Therefore, sedation is routinely induced clinically prior to PICC inserting. Chloral hydrate is a commonly used sedative for children. However, its clinical acceptance has remained low. And the sedation effect is non-satisfactory. Previous studies have confirmed the safety and effectiveness of intravenous/oral dosing or nasal dripping for sedation during the examinations of electrocardiography and computed tomography. Yet few studies have assessed the sedating efficacy of dexmedetomidine nasal drops for PICC inserting.

Methods:

From a cohort of 40 hospitalized patients scheduled for PICC inserting, 15 children employing a novel sedative mode of dexmedetomidine nasal drops at a dose of 2 ug/kg were assigned into group A while group B included another 25 children sedated routinely via an enema of 10% chloral hydrate at a dose of 0.5 mL/kg. The Ramsay’s scoring criteria were utilized for assessing the status of sedation. Two groups were observed with regards to success rate of sedation, onset time of sedation and occurrences of adverse reactions.

Results:

Statistical inter-group differences existed in success rate and onset time of sedation. The success rate of group A was higher than that of group B (93.3% vs 64.0%, X2 = 4.302, P = .038 < 0.05). Group A had a faster onset of sedation than group B (14.86 ± 2.57 vs 19.06 ± 3.40 minutes, t = 3.781, P = .001 < 0.05). No inter-group difference of statistical significance existed in occurrence of adverse reactions (P = 1.000 > 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that the success rate of sedation in group A was higher than that in group B, and the difference was statistically significant (P = .036 < 0.05).

Conclusions:

For sedating burn children, nasal dripping of dexmedetomidine is both safe and effective during PICC inserting. Without any obvious adverse reaction, it may relieve sufferings and enhance acceptance.
Etomidate versus propofol for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes
Authors: Hong Ji Taek , Park Sung-Wook
Published: February 2023

Background:

Propofol is increasingly being used for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy; however, owing to its side effects, an alternative drug is needed. We aimed to compare the safety, satisfaction, and efficacy outcomes of etomidate versus propofol in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy, including advanced endoscopic procedures.

Methods:

We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL (via EBSCO), China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Web of Science (1946–April 2020) databases for randomized controlled trials of gastrointestinal endoscopy (upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and advanced endoscopy) using etomidate or propofol as sedatives. We pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the safety profile and patient and anesthesiologist satisfaction using mixed-effects conditional logistic models and standardized mean differences for efficiency outcomes using random-effects models.

Results:

Twenty-four studies involving 3875 patients were included. Compared with propofol, etomidate resulted in significantly reduced apnea (OR: 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.13–0.37; P < .001), hypoxemia (OR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.35–0.54; P < .001), hypotension (OR: 0.20; 95% CI: 0.11–0.36; P < .001), and bradycardia (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.30–0.91; P = .02) but led to increased myoclonus (OR: 8.54; 95% CI: 5.20–14.01; P < .001) and lowered anesthesiologist satisfaction (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.39–0.91; P = .02).

Conclusion:

Etomidate may be a good alternative to propofol for gastrointestinal endoscopy, especially advanced endoscopy. Etomidate appears to be safe as an inducer for hemodynamically unstable patients or older adult patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy.
A Better Understanding of Pediatric Autoimmune Pancreatitis: Over 13 Years of Experience
Authors: García Tirado Diana , Molera Busoms Cristina , Álvarez Beltrán Marina , Mercadal-Hally María , Vaquero Raya Eva Cristina , Meavilla Oliva Silvia María , Martínez Osorio Johanna , Barber Martínez Ignasi , Cárdenas Vasquez Andrés , Segarra Canton Oscar , Martín-de-Carpi Javier
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Pediatric autoimmune pancreatitis (P-AIP) is an uncommon disease whose diagnosis requires strong clinical suspicion. Late diagnosis increases morbidity. We aimed to compare the usefulness of the 2011 International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria (ICDC) for Autoimmune Pancreatitis with the 2018 INSPPIRE (INternational Study Group of Pediatric Pancreatitis: In search for a cuRE) criteria.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed demographics and clinical, laboratory, radiological, and histological findings at diagnosis and during long-term follow-up in children diagnosed with AIP in 2 tertiary hospitals between 2008 and 2021.

Results:

We included 11 patients [6 girls; median age at diagnosis, 12.5 (range 2.8–15.7) years]. The most common symptom was abdominal pain. Pancreatic enzymes were elevated in 10 patients, and serum immunoglobulin G4 was elevated in 1. Magnetic resonance imaging showed enlargement of the pancreatic head in 10 patients and general pancreatic enlargement in 1. Pancreatic and papilla tissue were obtained from 9 patients. All patients received corticosteroids (prednisolone), and 4 also received azathioprine. According to the ICDC, all patients were classified as probable or non-otherwise specified AIP. According to INSPPIRE criteria, all patients were classified as AIP. Using the INSPPIRE criteria would have avoided biopsies in 6 patients who responded well to corticosteroids.

Conclusions:

The INSPPIRE criteria are useful. Using the ICDC in pediatric patients can delay diagnosis and result in unnecessary invasive tests.
Magnetic-Assisted Capsule Endoscopy in Children With Crohn Disease: Feasibility and Impact on Gastric Transit Time
Authors: Di Nardo Giovanni , Micheli Federica , Cozzi Denis A. , Mercantini Paolo , Parisi Pasquale , Baccini Flavia , Mennini Maurizio , Raucci Umberto , Marasco Giovanni
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Standard capsule endoscopy (CE) is ineffective for upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract examination because it does not allow operator-controlled navigation of the capsule. Magnetically assisted capsule endoscopy (MACE) may offer a solution to these problems. This pilot study is aimed to evaluate the feasibility of MACE system in pediatric Crohn disease (CD) and if magnetic steering could enhance capsule gastric emptying when compared with standard CE.

Methods:

Pediatric CD patients already studied by standard small bowel CE were enrolled. All participants swallowed a magnetically assisted CE and an external magnetic field navigator was used to guide the capsule through the upper GI tract. Maneuverability, completeness of the MACE examination, differences in the esophageal transit time (ETT), gastric transit time (GTT), and pyloric transit time (PTT) between standard CE and MACE were assessed.

Results:

Ten patients [mean age 11.4 years (range 6–15); 60% male] were enrolled. Maneuverability was defined as good and fair in 60% and 40% of participants, respectively. Completeness of MACE examination was 95%, 65%, and 92.5% in the esophagus, proximal, and distal stomach, respectively. Transpyloric passage of the capsule under magnetic control was successfully performed in 80% of patients. Magnetic intervention significantly increased ETT (P < 0.001) and reduced GTT and PTT (P = 0.002). No significant adverse events occurred.

Conclusions:

MACE is a safe and feasible technique in children. Magnetic steering enhances capsule gastric emptying and facilitates capsule transpyloric passage when compared with standard CE.
Self-described Nursing Responses Experienced During Care of Dying Patients and Their Families
Authors: Arbour Richard B. , Wiegand Debra L.
Published: February 2023

Critical care nurses care for dying patients and their families. Little is known about the feelings and experiences of critical care nurses and how they are affected when they provide end-of-life care. Study purpose was to understand lived experiences, responses, and feelings of critical care nurses providing end-of-life care. A descriptive phenomenological design with purposive sampling was used to recruit 19 critical care nurses who cared for dying patients and their families. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Nurses were asked open-ended questions about experiences and responses while providing end-of-life care. Coliazzi's method of data analysis was used to inductively determine themes, clusters, and categories. Data saturation was achieved, and methodological rigor was established. Responses included personalizing the experience, sadness, ageism, anger, frustration, relief, and stress. Factors contributing to clinicians' lived experience included previous experiences with death affecting how the experience was personalized among others. Critical care nurses may be unprepared for feelings and responses encountered during end-of-life care. Preparation for feelings and responses encountered during end-of-life care in nursing education and critical care orientation classes is essential. Future research should study optimal mentoring, teaching, and preparation for providing optimal end-of-life care. Study results have implications for practice, education, and research.
Mechanical testing of transtibial prosthetic sockets: A discussion paper from the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association Socket Guidance Workgroup
Authors: Gariboldi Francesca , Cutti Andrea Giovanni , Fatone Stefania , Nickel Eric , Dickinson Alex , Steer Joshua , Erenstone Jeffrey , Zahedi Saeed ,   AOPA Socket Guidance Workgroup
Published: February 2023

Background:

The advent of novel manufacturing technologies, materials, and socket design concepts could introduce risks to prosthetic limb users, as the existing knowledge base for safe fabrication may not apply. Moreover, although structural test standards exist for mass-produced prosthetic components, they are not applicable to prosthetic sockets.

Methods:

The “AOPA Socket Guidance Workgroup” was formed in 2020 to provide the prosthetic community with evidence-based clinical best practices and methods in the field of prosthetic socket structural analysis. This multidisciplinary expert workgroup undertook a critical analysis of the knowledge gaps regarding the requirements for mechanical testing of lower limb prosthetic sockets.

Results:

The Workgroup identified knowledge gaps in 4 domains. Domain 1 describes the shape and composition of a mock residual limb, required to support and generate in vivo representative loading within the socket. Domain 2 concerns prosthetic socket coordinate systems and alignment. Domain 3 regards the components and requirements of test specimens. Finally, Domain 4 considers test conditions, loading parameters, and acceptance criteria.

Conclusions:

This paper describes these knowledge gaps in detail and recommends potential solution approaches based on literature review, group consensus around existing knowledge, or the formation of new study groups to fill each knowledge gap. Our intent is for the recommendations arising from this paper to support the community (e.g., researchers in the clinic, academia, industry, and funders) in addressing these knowledge gaps.
Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency and Microwave Ablation for the Management of Patients With Benign Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Ding Jian , Wang Duo , Zhang Wenbin , Xu Dexin , Wang Wenhai
Published: February 2023

Ultrasound-guided thermal ablation has been shown to considerably reduce nodule-related discomfort and cosmetic problems. Hence, this review was done to determine the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided radiofrequency or microwave ablation in the management of benign thyroid nodules. Searches were done in EMBASE, SCOPUS, PubMed Central, Cochrane library, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Clinicaltrials.gov until August 2022. Meta-analysis was carried out using random-effects model. With 95% confidence intervals (CIs), pooled standardized mean differences, mean differences, and/or odds ratio reported. In total, we analyzed 16 studies, most of them had high risk of bias. The pooled standardized mean difference for symptom score was −1.01 (95% CI, −1.83 to −0.19; I
2 = 94.2%), for cosmetic relief was −1.26 (95% CI, −2.27 to −0.24; I
2 = 96%), for postoperative nodule volume was −1.77 (95% CI, −3.06 to −0.48; I
2 = 94%), for hospital stay was −3.88 (95% CI, −4.58 to −3.18; I
2 = 91.1%), for operation time was −3.30 (95% CI, −3.95 to −2.64; I
2 = 93.4%). The pooled odds ratio for postoperative pain was 0.04 (95% CI, 0.00–0.35; I
2 = 95.1%), for postoperative hypothyroidism was 0.04 (95% CI, 0.01–0.11; I
2 = 0%), for postoperative hoarseness was 0.56 (95% CI, 0.22–1.47; I
2 = 0%), for postoperative hematoma was 0.57 (95% CI, 0.15–2.22; I
2 = 0%). Ultrasound-guided radiofrequency and microwave ablation had better efficacy and safety profile in terms of symptoms, cosmetic relief, complication rate, duration of stay, and operation time when compared with conventional surgery or observation without treatment for patients with benign thyroid nodules.
Combining Stakeholder-Engaged Research and the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia
Authors: Szabo Gretchen , Obermeyer Jessica , Cauthorn Angelique , Hornbostel Michael , Flacco Joe
Published: February 2023

Stakeholder-engaged research (SER) is common in many health-related fields and is gaining momentum in aphasiology. Stakeholder-engaged research shares many of the same goals and values as the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA). The aim of this article is to identify how these two frameworks complement each other and can be applied to aphasia research. This is accomplished by first defining SER and highlighting associated benefits and challenges and then exploring the ways that SER and LPAA's core values support each other. The authors' SER project is discussed to illustrate the synergy between SER and LPAA and highlight the potential research and clinical impacts of expanding the use of SER in aphasiology.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
Authors: Buchanan Gordon F. , Maciel Ana T. Novella , Summerfield Matthew J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose of review

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a leading cause of death in patients with epilepsy. This review highlights the recent literature regarding epidemiology on a global scale, putative mechanisms and thoughts towards intervention and prevention.

Recent findings

Recently, numerous population-based studies have examined the incidence of SUDEP in many countries. Remarkably, incidence is quite consistent across these studies, and is commensurate with the recent estimates of about 1.2 per 1000 patient years. These studies further continue to support that incidence is similar across the ages and that comparable factors portend heightened risk for SUDEP. Fervent research in patients and animal studies continues to hone the understanding of potential mechanisms for SUDEP, especially those regarding seizure-induced respiratory dysregulation. Many of these studies and others have begun to lay out a path towards identification of improved treatment and prevention means. However, continued efforts are needed to educate medical professionals about SUDEP risk and the need to disclose this to patients.

SUDEP is a devastating potential outcome of epilepsy. More is continually learned about risk and mechanisms from clinical and preclinical studies. This knowledge can hopefully be leveraged into preventive measures in the near future.
Diagnosis of group A streptococcal pharyngitis in the paediatric emergency department using a fluorescence-based RADT: predicted impact on antibiotic prescription
Authors: Alhaddad Ali J. , Aljaroodi Salma , Alkhasawneh Omar M. , Dibo Randa , Alturki Shams A. , Aljamaan Khalid A. , Wanni Nahid H. , Alnimr Amani M. , Aldossary Reem A. , Aljindan Reem Y. , Alkharsah Khaled R.
Published: February 2023

Introduction. Using rapid antigen diagnostic tests (RADTs) in clinical practice has shown excellent specificity but often has diminished sensitivity.

Gap Statement. Local data for evaluating the diagnostic performance of a new fluorescence-based RADT and its influence on the antibiotic prescription rate are not available.

Aim. To evaluate the accuracy of fluorescent immunoassay (FIA)-RADTs for diagnosing group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis among children and its estimated effect as a point of care test (POCT) on the antibiotic prescription rate at the paediatric emergency department.

Methodology. A prospective study was conducted, comprising children 3 to 14 years old presenting with pharyngitis. Throat swab culture and FIA-RADTs were performed on all samples. Conventional PCR was performed on the discordant samples.

Results. A total of 246 children were included in this study. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the FIA-RADT, based on culture results and PCR detection combined, were 95.6, 96.8, 94.6 and 97.4 %, respectively. Antibiotics have been prescribed to 162 (65.9 %) children; however, if FIA-RADTs had been added in the clinical practice as a POCT, only 92 (37.4 %) children would have received antibiotics in total. Additionally, implementation of FIA-RADTs would significantly reduce the antibiotic prescription rate from 48.8 and 60.6 % to 9.5 and 31.9 % among patients with clinical scores of 2 and 3, respectively.

Conclusion. The new FIA-RADT is simple, prompt and reliable. It is helpful in clinical settings and may be used to reduce antibiotic overprescription, especially for children who have a low risk for GAS pharyngitis, according to the clinical score.
SARS-CoV-2 in outdoor air following the third wave lockdown release, Portugal, 2021
Authors: Silva Priscilla Gomes da , Nascimento Maria São José , Sousa Sofia I. V. , Mesquita João R.
Published: February 2023

Aiming to contribute with more data on the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) in outdoor environments, we performed air sampling in outdoor terraces from restaurants in three major cities of Portugal in April 2021, following the third wave lockdown release in the country. Air samples (n=19) were collected in 19 restaurant terraces during lunch time. Each air sample was collected using a Coriolis Compact air sampler, followed by RNA extraction and real-time quantitative PCR for the detection of viral RNA. Viral viability was also assessed through RNAse pre-treatment of samples. Only one of the 19 air samples was positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, with 7337 gene copies m–3 for the genomic region N2, with no viable virus in this sample. The low number of positive samples found in this study is not surprising, as sampling took place in outdoor settings where air circulation is optimal, and aerosols are rapidly dispersed by the air currents. These results are consistent with previous reports stating that transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in outdoor spaces is low, although current evidence shows an association of exposures in settings where drinking and eating is possible on-site with an increased risk in acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, the minimal infectious dose for SARS-CoV-2 still needs to be determined so that the real risk of infection in different environments can be accurately established.
Identifying probable dementia in undiagnosed Black and White Americans using machine learning in Veterans Health Administration electronic health records
Authors: Shao Yijun , Todd Kaitlin , Shutes-David Andrew , Millard Steven P. , Brown Karl , Thomas Amy , Chen Kathryn , Wilson Katherine , Zeng Qing T. , Tsuang Debby W.
Published: February 2023

The application of machine learning (ML) tools in electronic health records (EHRs) can help reduce the underdiagnosis of dementia, but models that are not designed to reflect minority population may perpetuate that underdiagnosis. To address the underdiagnosis of dementia in both Black Americans (BAs) and white Americans (WAs), we sought to develop and validate ML models that assign race-specific risk scores. These scores were used to identify undiagnosed dementia in BA and WA Veterans in EHRs. More specifically, risk scores were generated separately for BAs (n=10K) and WAs (n=10K) in training samples of cases and controls by performing ML, equivalence mapping, topic modeling, and a support vector-machine (SVM) in structured and unstructured EHR data. Scores were validated via blinded manual chart reviews (n=1.2K) of controls from a separate sample (n=20K). AUCs and negative and positive predictive values (NPVs and PPVs) were calculated to evaluate the models. There was a strong positive relationship between SVM-generated risk scores and undiagnosed dementia. BAs were more likely than WAs to have undiagnosed dementia per chart review, both overall (15.3% vs 9.5%) and among Veterans with >90thpercentile cutoff scores (25.6% vs 15.3%). With chart reviews as the reference standard and varied cutoff scores, the BA model performed slightly better than the WA model (AUC=0.86 with NPV=0.98 and PPV=0.26 at >90thpercentile cutoff vs AUC=0.77 with NPV=0.98 and PPV=0.15 at >90th). The AUCs, NPVs, and PPVs suggest that race-specific ML models can assist in the identification of undiagnosed dementia, particularly in BAs. Future studies should investigate implementing EHR-based risk scores in clinics that serve both BA and WA Veterans.
A model for information security culture with creativity and innovation as enablers – refined with an expert panel
Authors: Da Veiga Adéle
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to elicit an understanding of creativity and innovation to enable a totally aligned information security culture. A model is proposed to encourage creativity and innovation as part of the information security culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The study first applied a theoretical approach with a scoping literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses method to propose a conceptual model for engendering employee creativity and innovation as part of the information security culture. A qualitative research method was further applied with expert interviews and qualitative data analysis in Atlas.ti to validate and refine the conceptual model.

Findings

A refined and validated information security culture model enabled through creativity and innovation is presented. The input from the expert panel was used to extend the model by 18 elements highlighting that the risk appetite of an organisation defines how much creativity and innovation can be tolerated to reach a balance with the potential risks it might introduce. Embedding creativity and innovation as part of the organisational culture to facilitate it further as part of the information security culture can aid in combating cyber threats and incidents; however, it should be managed through a decision-making process while governed within policies that define the boundaries of creativity and innovation in information security.

Research limitations/implications

The research serves as a point of reference for further research about the influence of creativity and innovation in information security culture which can be investigated through structural equation modelling.

Practical implications

This study offers novel insights for managerial practice to encourage creativity and innovation as part of information security.

Originality/value

The research proposes a novel concept of introducing creativity and innovation as part of the information security culture and presents a novel model to facilitate this.
Effects of vividness, information and aesthetic design on the appeal of pay-per-click ads
Authors: Zhu Ying , Wang Yong , Wei Joicey , Hao Andy
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Few studies illustrate how contextual effects (e.g. assimilation and contrast) in pay-per-click ad design may impact consumers' attitudes and purchase intention. To fill this research gap, the authors provide theoretical predictions and empirical evidence on how ad design may prompt an assimilation and/or a contrast effect that may influence consumers' attitudes toward the ad and the brand and purchase intention. They also investigate whether the impact of contextual effects on consumers' decisions depends on the level of vividness in the ad.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (vividness: dynamic motion vs. static page) × 2 (information design: assimilation vs. contrast) × 2 (aesthetic design: assimilation vs. contrast) between-subjects experimental design is used to examine the effects of vividness, information design and aesthetic design. Conditional process analysis is used to assess the mediating role of attitudes toward the ad and the brand in the relationship between contextual effects and purchase intention.

Findings

For dynamic ads (i.e. high vividness) but not for static ads (i.e. low vividness), combined information contrast and aesthetic contrast designs generate a more favorable attitude toward the brand and a higher purchase intention than do combined information assimilation and aesthetic assimilation designs. Notably, combined information contrast and aesthetic contrast designs have the strongest effects than any other combination of assimilation and contrast designs of information and aesthetics. Attitudes toward the ad and the brand are significant mediators between contextual factors and intention to purchase.

Research limitations/implications

The study examines the effectiveness of online ads from a new theoretical angle based on the attributes of pay-per-click ads.

Practical implications

The results suggest that when advertisers decide to use dynamic ads, they should adopt a contrast design for both the ad information and its aesthetics.

Originality/value

This study fills a research gap in the contextual effects literature, including providing evidence of an underlying process in the relationship between certain contextual effects and purchase intent. It also extends previous findings of assimilation/contrast in information design to aesthetics design and advances the literature on vividness by examining a moderation effect of vividness.
Balancing patent portfolios and R&D efforts: examining firm performance
Authors: Kim Zhunwoo , Lee Duk Hee , Choi Kyu-Sun , Kwon Ohsung
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain whether technological diversification (TD) enhances firm performance and explores the effect of patent portfolio balancing (PPB) on firm financial performance and the moderating role of research and development (R&D) intensity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically investigates a panel dataset based on 296 information and communications technology (ICT) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) over 5 years, using a fixed-effects panel regression with time-lagged and moderating effects. Data are collected from a government survey and a firm and patent database.

Findings

The relationship between PPB and return on assets (ROA) is negative, indicating that TD in SMEs adversely affects firm performance. R&D intensity positively moderates the relationship between PPB and ROA, implying that follow-up R&D after creating new patents could weaken the negative relationship between TD and firm performance. This moderating effect only occurs when R&D intensity is sufficiently high, suggesting that high R&D firms could be more successful at diversification.

Practical implications

As TD consumes many resources, managers should set the optimal level of diversification and recognise the need for follow-up R&D for successful diversification.

Originality/value

This study conceptualises a unique theoretical framework for the PPB of ICT SMEs, revealing the moderating role of R&D intensity in changing the negative influence of PPB on firm performance.
Evaluation of natural oil polyol hydrophobic acrylic-based coating incorporated with SiO2 nanoparticles for enhanced corrosion protection
Authors: Wonnie Ma Iling Aema , Ong Gerard , Shafaamri Ammar , Jamalludin Julie Nabilah , Ishun Nina Nazirah , Kasi Ramesh , Subramaniam Ramesh
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to fabricate the acrylic-based polymeric composite coating with a hydrophobic surface associated with natural oil polyol (NOP) and polydimethylsiloxane with the incorporation of 3 Wt.% SiO2 nanoparticle (SiO2np) against the corrosive NaCl media.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural properties of the formulated polymeric composite coatings were investigated by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, water contact angle (WCA) and cross-hatch (X-Hatch) tests. The WCA measurement was used to study the surface wettability of the formulated polymeric composite coatings. The corrosion protection performance of the nanocomposite coated on the mild steel substrate was studied by immersing the samples in 3.5 Wt.% NaCl solution for 30 days using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Findings

The enhanced polymeric composite coating system performed with an excellent increase in the WCA up to 111.1° which is good hydrophobic nature and very high coating resistance in the range of 1010 Ω attributed to the superiority of SiO2np.

Originality/value

The incorporation of SiO2np into the polymeric coating could enhance the surface roughness and hydrophobic properties that could increase corrosion protection. This approach is a novel attempt of using NOP along with the addition of SiO2np.
A novel hierarchical temperature control method of an electric oven and its experimental evaluation
Authors: Shokri Kalandaragh Yaser , Sabahi Kamel
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Ovens are semi-industrial multipurpose equipment that are used to provide a desired temperature for specific chemical processes. Temperature regulation in the presence of different type of disturbances and dealing with nonlinear dynamics with large dead time (up to a few minutes) are some undesirable factors that have to be considered in the controller design procedure of the oven systems. Due to these factors, the classical PID controller tuned using Cohen-Coon or Ziegler–Nichol’s tuning methods often fails to meet satisfactory closed-loop performance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, to deal with the limitations on the oven system due to the undesirable factors, a hierarchical automaton-guided form controller has been designed. The proposed controller includes several discrete PI controllers, each of which operates locally in the defined operating regions whose separation idea is specific to this paper. Based on the idea proposed in the separation of regions, the controller’s coefficients tuning rules are extracted prior to any determination. Then, a supervisor controller has assumed the task of switching between local controllers. In the next step, by considering a conceptual model for the oven system and using a candidate Lyapunov function, the stability conditions of closed-loop system are discussed and the necessary conditions for the asymptotic stability are derived. The proposed controller is practically implemented with the help of the Arduino Nano platform.

Findings

Using several experiments, the superiority of the proposed hierarchical controller in terms of performance and energy consumption has been demonstrated.

Originality/value

The proposed hierarchical controller has been implemented practically and an acceptable closed-loop performance has been achieved. To illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method, the closed-loop stability of this method is shown using the Lyapunov theory.