bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging versus computed tomography to guide transcatheter aortic valve replacement: study protocol for a randomized trial (TAVR-CMR)
Authors: Klug Gert , Reinstadler Sebastian , Troger Felix , Holzknecht Magdalena , Reindl Martin , Tiller Christina , Lechner Ivan , Fink Priscilla , Pamminger Mathias , Kremser Christian , Ulmer Hanno , Bauer Axel , Metzler Bernhard , Mayr Agnes
Published: September 2022

Background

The standard procedure for the planning of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is the combination of echocardiography, coronary angiography, and cardiovascular computed tomography (TAVR-CT) for the exact determination of the aortic valve dimensions, valve size, and implantation route. However, up to 80% of the patients undergoing TAVR suffer from chronic renal insufficiency. Alternatives to reduce the need for iodinated contrast agents are desirable. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging recently has emerged as such an alternative. Therefore, we aim to investigate, for the first time, the non-inferiority of TAVR-CMR to TAVR-CT regarding efficacy and safety end-points.

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized, open-label trial. It is planned to include 250 patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis scheduled for TAVR based on a local heart-team decision. Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to receive a predefined TAVR-CMR protocol or to receive a standard TAVR-CT protocol within 2 weeks after inclusion. Follow-up will be performed at hospital discharge after TAVR and after 1 and 2 years. The primary efficacy outcome is device implantation success at discharge. The secondary endpoints are a combined safety endpoint and a combined clinical efficacy endpoint at baseline and at 1 and 2 years, as well as a comparison of imaging procedure related variables. Endpoint definitions are based on the updated 2012 VARC-2 consensus document.

Discussion

TAVR-CMR might be an alternative to TAVR-CT for planning a TAVR procedure. If proven to be effective and safe, a broader application of TAVR-CMR might reduce the incidence of acute kidney injury after TAVR and thus improve outcomes.

Trial registration

The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03831087). The results will be disseminated at scientific meetings and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Effectiveness of a Mindful Compassion Care Program in reducing burnout and psychological distress amongst frontline hospital nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bodini Luca , Bonetto Chiara , Cheli Simone , Del Piccolo Lidia , Rimondini Michela , Rossi Alberto , Carta Angela , Porru Stefano , Amaddeo Francesco , Lasalvia Antonio
Published: September 2022

Background

Recent studies have shown that nurses have been more affected by the COVID-19 pandemic than any other group of hospital workers in terms of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Several clinical studies had previously demonstrated the effectiveness of mindfulness and compassion interventions in reducing burnout and emotional distress amongst healthcare professionals.

Methods and analysis

A parallel-group randomized controlled trial will assess the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a mindfulness and compassion-focused programme on frontline nurses who had been working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seventy-two participants will be recruited from Verona University Hospital Trust (Veneto Region, north-east Italy) and will be divided equally into an intervention group and a control group. Primary outcome will be assessed using the Emotional Exhaustion subscale of the Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey (MBI-GS). Secondary outcomes will be measured by the Cynicism and Professional Efficacy subscales of the MBI-GS, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Impact of Stressful Events (IES-R), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and the Forms of Self-Criticising/attacking and Self-Reassuring Scale (FSCRS).

Discussion

The study aims to fill a gap in the literature and present a scientifically validated intervention for those healthcare professionals most exposed to the stressful conditions of working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; Identifier: NCT05308537
A community-based peer-support group intervention “Paths to EvERyday life” (PEER) added to service as usual for adults with vulnerability to mental health difficulties – a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Poulsen Chalotte Heinsvig , Egmose Cecilie Høgh , Ebersbach Bea Kolbe , Hjorthøj Carsten , Eplov Lene Falgaard
Published: September 2022

Background

The number of people struggling with vulnerability to mental health difficulties is increasing worldwide, and there is a need for new interventions, to prevent more people from developing serious mental illnesses. In recent years, peer support has been suggested as a key element in creating person-centered interventions in mental health services. However, the evidence for peer support is not yet established. We aim to investigate the effect of a 10-week peer-support intervention “Paths to EvERyday life” (PEER) added to service as usual (SAU) versus SAU alone in a Danish municipality setting.

Methods

A two-armed, investigator-initiated, multi-municipal, parallel-group superiority trial to investigate the effectiveness of the PEER intervention added to SAU compared to SAU alone. A total of 284 participants will be recruited from the municipal social services in the participating municipalities and by self-referrals and randomly assigned to (1) the PEER intervention added to SAU or (2) SAU. The primary outcome is a self-assessed personal recovery (Questionnaire about the process of recovery (QPR-15)) at end of the intervention. The secondary outcomes are self-assessed empowerment (Empowerment Scale Rogers (ESR)), quality of life (The Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of life (MANSA)), and functioning (Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS)).

Discussion

This trial will test a new community-based peer-support intervention, and if the intervention proves to be effective, the goal is that future integration of this intervention will improve individual recovery and mental health and reduce the societal burden of individuals seeking municipal social support and/or mental health services.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04639167. Registered on Nov. 19, 2020.
Preoperative oral diazepam for intraoperative blood pressure stabilisation in hypertensive patients undergoing vitrectomy under retrobulbar nerve block anaesthesia: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Qian Tianwei , Gong Qiaoyun , Chen Chong , Wu Xia , Xue Lin , Fan Ying , Wang Weijun , Zhang Zhihua , Cao Hui , Xu Xun
Published: September 2022

Background

As a type of local anaesthesia, retrobulbar nerve block is often used in vitrectomy, with patients remaining conscious during the operation. The increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) caused by tension and fear during the operation—especially in patients with a history of hypertension—can negatively impact the safety of the procedure, resulting in suprachoroidal haemorrhage or retinal haemorrhage. Diazepam has a sedative effect and can relieve tension during surgery. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of diazepam for intraoperative BP stabilisation in hypertensive patients under retrobulbar anaesthesia during surgery.

Methods

This single-centre, double-blind, randomised controlled and parallel clinical trial will include 180 hypertensive patients who will undergo vitrectomy with nerve block anaesthesia. Study participants will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to intervention (patients receiving oral diazepam before the operation) and control (patients receiving oral placebo before the operation) groups. The primary outcome is the effective rate of intraoperative BP control (systolic BP during operation maintained at <160mmHg at all timepoints). The secondary outcomes are the proportion of patients with SBP ≥180 mmHg at any timepoint from operation to 1 h post-operation, the change of mean systolic blood pressure and mean heart rate during operation from baseline, as well as the number of patients with intraoperative and post-operative adverse reactions within 12 weeks of surgery. The logistic regression model will be performed to compare the outcomes.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of diazepam for intraoperative BP stabilisation in hypertensive patients under nerve block anaesthesia during surgery. The results of this trial will reveal whether diazepam has a significant effect on intraoperative BP stability in patients with a history of hypertension who require vitrectomy. If the results of this trial are significant, a large-scale multi-centre clinical trial can be designed.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) ChiCTR2100041772. Registered on 5 January 2021.
Researcher perspectives on ethics considerations in epigenetics: an international survey
Authors: Dupras Charles , Knoppers Terese , Palmour Nicole , Beauchamp Elisabeth , Liosi Stamatina , Siebert Reiner , Berner Alison May , Beck Stephan , Charest Ian , Joly Yann
Published: September 2022

Over the past decade, bioethicists, legal scholars and social scientists have started to investigate the potential implications of epigenetic research and technologies on medicine and society. There is growing literature discussing the most promising opportunities, as well as arising ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI). This paper explores the views of epigenetic researchers about some of these discussions. From January to March 2020, we conducted an online survey of 189 epigenetic researchers working in 31 countries. We questioned them about the scope of their field, opportunities in different areas of specialization, and ELSI in the conduct of research and knowledge translation. We also assessed their level of concern regarding four emerging non-medical applications of epigenetic testing—i.e., in life insurance, forensics, immigration and direct-to-consumer testing. Although there was strong agreement on DNA methylation, histone modifications, 3D structure of chromatin and nucleosomes being integral elements of the field, there was considerable disagreement on transcription factors, RNA interference, RNA splicing and prions. The most prevalent ELSI experienced or witnessed by respondents were in obtaining timely access to epigenetic data in existing databases, and in the communication of epigenetic findings by the media. They expressed high levels of concern regarding non-medical applications of epigenetics, echoing cautionary appraisals in the social sciences and humanities literature.
The absence of AhR in CD4+ T cells in patients with acute graft-versus-host disease may be related to insufficient CTCF expression
Authors: Zeng Cong , Cheng Ting-ting , Ma Xia , Liu Yi , Hua Juan , Chen Xu , Wang Shi-yu , Xu Ya-jing
Published: September 2022

Background

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is a life-threatening complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Accumulating evidence suggests that imbalanced Treg/Th17 ratio accelerates the progression of aGVHD. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor activated through cognate ligand binding. Current evidence supports that AhR plays a critical regulatory role in the differentiation of Treg and Th17 cells. However, the relationship between AhR and aGVHD remains unclear.

Results

Our results showed that AhR expression was downregulated significantly in CD4+ T cells from patients with aGVHD compared with the non-aGVHD group. We also discovered that after activating AhR deficient CD4+ T cells, the expression levels of the activation markers-CD40L, CD134 and CD137 and cell proliferation activity were significantly higher than those of AhR-expressing CD4+ T cells. Restoring the expression of AhR in aGVHD CD4+ T cells resulted in significantly increased percentage of Tregs and associated gene transcripts, including Foxp3, IL-10 and CD39. In contrast, Th17 cell amounts and the transcription of related genes, including RORγt, IL-17A and IL-17F, were significantly reduced. We confirmed that CTCF recruited EP300 and TET2 to bind to the AhR promoter region and promoted AhR expression by mediating histone H3K9/K14 hyperacetylation and DNA demethylation in this region. The low expression of CTCF caused histone hypoacetylation and DNA hypermethylation of the AhR promoter, resulting in insufficient expression in aGVHD CD4+ T cells.

Conclusions

CTCF is an important inducer of AhR transcription. Insufficient expression of CTCF leads to excessive AhR downregulation, resulting in substantial CD4+ T cell activation and Th17/Treg ratio increase, thereby mediating the occurrence of aGVHD.
Dynamic network model reveals distinct tau spreading patterns in early- and late-onset Alzheimer disease
Authors: Lee Wha Jin , Cho Hanna , Baek Min Seok , Kim Han-Kyeol , Lee Jae Hoon , Ryu Young Hoon , Lyoo Chul Hyoung , Seong Joon-Kyung
Published: September 2022

Background

The clinical features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) vary substantially depending on whether the onset of cognitive deficits is early or late. The amount and distribution patterns of tau pathology are thought to play a key role in the clinical characteristics of AD, which spreads throughout the large-scale brain network. Here, we describe the differences between tau-spreading processes in early- and late-onset symptomatic individuals on the AD spectrum.

Methods

We divided 74 cognitively unimpaired (CU) and 68 cognitively impaired (CI) patients receiving 18F-flortaucipir positron emission tomography scans into two groups by age and age at onset. Members of each group were arranged in a pseudo-longitudinal order based on baseline tau pathology severity, and potential interregional tau-spreading pathways were defined following the order using longitudinal tau uptake. We detected a multilayer community structure through consecutive tau-spreading networks to identify spatio-temporal changes in the propagation hubs.

Results

In each group, ordered tau-spreading networks revealed the stage-dependent dynamics of tau propagation, supporting distinct tau accumulation patterns. In the young CU/early-onset CI group, tau appears to spread through a combination of three independent communities with partially overlapped territories, whose specific driving regions were the basal temporal regions, left medial and lateral temporal regions, and left parietal regions. For the old CU/late-onset CI group, however, continuation of major communities occurs in line with the appearance of hub regions in the order of bilateral entorhinal cortices, parahippocampal and fusiform gyri, and lateral temporal regions.

Conclusion

Longitudinal tau propagation depicts distinct spreading pathways of the early- and late-onset AD spectrum characterized by the specific location and appearance period of several hub regions that dominantly provide tau.
Extracellular vesicle therapy for traumatic central nervous system disorders
Authors: Zhang Jing , Shi Weipeng , Qu Di , Yu Tengbo , Qi Chao , Fu Haitao
Published: September 2022

Traumatic central nervous system (CNS) disorders have catastrophic effects on patients, and, currently, there is no effective clinical treatment. Cell transplantation is a common treatment for traumatic CNS injury in animals. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have reported that the beneficial effect of transplanted cells for CNS repair is mediated primarily through the extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by the cells, in which microRNAs play a major role. Accordingly, numerous studies have evaluated the roles and applications of EVs secreted by different cell types in neurological diseases. Furthermore, due to their unique biological features, EVs are used as disease biomarkers and drug delivery systems for disease prevention and treatment. We discuss current knowledge related to EVs, focusing on the mechanism underlying their effects on traumatic CNS diseases, and summarize existing research on the potential clinical utility of EVs as disease biomarkers and drug delivery systems.
Challenges and perspectives of tendon-derived cell therapy for tendinopathy: from bench to bedside
Authors: Chen Ziming , Chen Peilin , Zheng Monica , Gao Junjie , Liu Delin , Wang Allan , Zheng Qiujian , Leys Toby , Tai Andrew , Zheng Minghao
Published: September 2022

Tendon is composed of dense fibrous connective tissues, connecting muscle at the myotendinous junction (MTJ) to bone at the enthesis and allowing mechanical force to transmit from muscle to bone. Tendon diseases occur at different zones of the tendon, including enthesis, MTJ and midsubstance of the tendon, due to a variety of environmental and genetic factors which consequently result in different frequencies and recovery rates. Self-healing properties of tendons are limited, and cell therapeutic approaches in which injured tendon tissues are renewed by cell replenishment are highly sought after. Homologous use of individual’s tendon-derived cells, predominantly differentiated tenocytes and tendon-derived stem cells, is emerging as a treatment for tendinopathy through achieving minimal cell manipulation for clinical use. This is the first review summarizing the progress of tendon-derived cell therapy in clinical use and its challenges due to the structural complexity of tendons, heterogeneous composition of extracellular cell matrix and cells and unsuitable cell sources. Further to that, novel future perspectives to improve therapeutic effect in tendon-derived cell therapy based on current basic knowledge are discussed.
Human pluripotent stem cell-derived macrophages and macrophage-derived exosomes: therapeutic potential in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Rasaei Roya , Tyagi Apoorvi , Rasaei Shima , Lee Seung-Joon , Yang Se-Ran , Kim Kye-Seong , Ramakrishna Suresh , Hong Seok-Ho
Published: September 2022

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a fatal chronic disease characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix and thickening of the alveolar wall, ultimately leading to respiratory failure. PF is thought to be initiated by the dysfunction and aberrant activation of a variety of cell types in the lung. In particular, several studies have demonstrated that macrophages play a pivotal role in the development and progression of PF through secretion of inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines, suggesting that they could be an alternative therapeutic source as well as therapeutic target for PF. In this review, we describe the characteristics, functions, and origins of subsets of macrophages involved in PF and summarize current data on the generation and therapeutic application of macrophages derived from pluripotent stem cells for the treatment of fibrotic diseases. Additionally, we discuss the use of macrophage-derived exosomes to repair fibrotic lung tissue.
A time-splitting local meshfree approach for time-fractional anisotropic diffusion equation: application in image denoising
Authors: Mazloum Jalil , Hadian Siahkal-Mahalle Behrang
Published: September 2022

Image denoising approaches based on partial differential modeling have attracted a lot of attention in image processing due to their high performance. The nonlinear anisotropic diffusion equations, specially Perona–Malik model, are powerful tools that improve the quality of the image by removing noise while preserving details and edges. In this paper, we propose a powerful and accurate local meshless algorithm to solve the time-fractional Perona–Malik model which has an adjustable fractional derivative making the control of the diffusion process more convenient than the classical one. In order to overcome the complexities of the problem, a suitable combination of the compactly supported radial basis function method and operator splitting technique is proposed to convert a complex time-fractional partial differential equation into sparse linear algebraic systems that standard solvers can solve. The numerical results of classical and fractional models are explored in different metrics to demonstrate the proposed scheme’s effectiveness. The numerical experiments confirm that the method is suitable to denoise digital images and show that the fractional derivative increases the model’s ability to remove noise in images.
“Autonomous weapons” as a geopolitical signifier in a national power play: analysing AI imaginaries in Chinese and US military policies
Authors: Bächle Thomas Christian , Bareis Jascha
Published: September 2022

“Autonomous weapon systems” (AWS) have been subject to intense discussions for years. Numerous political, academic and legal actors are debating their consequences, with many calling for strict regulation or even a global ban. Surprisingly, it often remains unclear which technologies the term AWS refers to and also in what sense these systems can be characterised as autonomous at all. Despite being feared by many, weapons that are completely self-governing and beyond human control are more of a conceptual possibility than an actual military reality.

As will be argued, the conflicting interpretations of AWS are largely the result of the diverse meanings that are constructed in political discourses. These interpretations convert specific understandings of AI into strategic assets and consequently hinder the establishment of common ethical standards and legal regulations. In particular, this article looks at the publicly available military AI strategies and position papers by China and the USA. It analyses how AWS technologies, understood as evoking sociotechnical imaginaries, are politicised to serve particular national interests.

The article presents the current theoretical debate, which has sought to find a functional definition of AWS that is sufficiently unambiguous for regulatory or military contexts. Approaching AWS as a phenomenon that is embedded in a particular sociotechnical imaginary, however, flags up the ways in which nation states portray themselves as part of a global AI race, competing over economic, military and geopolitical advantages. Nation states do not just enforce their geopolitical ambitions through a fierce realpolitik rhetoric but also play around with ambiguities in definitions. This especially holds true for China and the USA, since they are regarded and regard themselves as hegemonic antagonists, presenting competing self-conceptions that are apparent in their histories, political doctrines and identities. The way they showcase their AI-driven military prowess indicates an ambivalent rhetoric of legal sobriety, tech-regulation and aggressive national dominance. AWS take on the role of signifiers that are employed to foster political legitimacy or to spark deliberate confusion and deterrence.
Light-driven progesterone production by InP–(M. neoaurum) biohybrid system
Authors: Liu Kun , Wang Feng-Qing , Liu Ke , Zhao Yunqiu , Gao Bei , Tao Xinyi , Wei Dongzhi
Published: September 2022

Progesterone is one of the classical hormone drugs used in medicine for maintaining pregnancy. However, its manufacturing process, coupled with organic reagents and poisonous catalysts, causes irreversible environmental pollution. Recent advances in synthetic biology have demonstrated that the microbial biosynthesis of natural products, especially difficult-to-synthesize compounds, from building blocks is a promising strategy. Herein, overcoming the heterologous cytochrome P450 enzyme interdependency in Mycolicibacterium neoaurum successfully constructed the CYP11A1 running module to realize metabolic conversion from waste phytosterols to progesterone. Subsequently, progesterone yield was improved through strategies involving electron transfer and NADPH regeneration. Mutant CYP11A1 (mCYP11A1) and adrenodoxin reductase (ADR) were connected by a flexible linker (L) to form the chimera mCYP11A1-L-ADR to enhance electron transfer. The chimera mCYP11A1-L-ADR, adrenodoxin (ADX), and ADR-related homolog ARH1 were expressed in M. neoaurum, showed positive activity and produced 45 mg/L progesterone. This electron transfer strategy increased progesterone production by 3.95-fold compared with M. neoaurum expressing mCYP11A1, ADR, and ADX. Significantly, a novel inorganic–biological hybrid system was assembled by combining engineered M. neoaurum and InP nanoparticles to regenerate NADPH, which was increased 84-fold from the initial progesterone titer to 235 ± 50 mg/L. In summary, this work highlights the green and sustainable potential of obtaining synthetic progesterone from sterols in M. neoaurum.

Graphical Abstract
Comment on “Soil salinity assessment by using near-infrared channel and Vegetation Soil Salinity Index derived from Landsat 8 OLI data: a case study in the Tra Vinh Province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam” by Kim-Anh Nguyen, Yuei-An Liou, Ha-Phuong Tran, Phi-Phung Hoang and Thanh-Hung Nguyen
Authors: Silvestri Sonia , Nguyen Diep Ngoc , Chiapponi Emilia
Published: September 2022

Nguyen et al. (Prog Earth Planet Sci 7:1, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40645-019-0311-0) suggest that Landsat 8 OLI can be used to map and monitor soil salinity in the coastal zone of the Mekong River Delta. The authors use empirical correlations between the near-infrared (NIR) band, or vegetation indexes containing the NIR band, and soil salinity. We show that within the coastal portion of the Mekong Delta, extensively ponded due to widespread shrimp farming, about 90% of Landsat 8 pixels are fully or partially covered by water. We then find that, due to strong NIR radiation absorption, NIR reflectance from ponded pixels decreases linearly with increasing water percentage cover, while no significant correlation is found between reflectance and soil salinity. Through detailed new analyses, we conclude that NIR reflectance attenuation cannot be ascribed to vegetation stress caused by soil salinity, but rather to the presence of water ponds. We also show that a similar behavior exists in ponded freshwater inland areas, confirming that the NIR absorption exerted by water is independent of salinity.
Masquelet technique in military practice: specificities and future directions for combat-related bone defect reconstruction
Authors: Mathieu Laurent , Mourtialon Romain , Durand Marjorie , de Rousiers Arnaud , de l’Escalopier Nicolas , Collombet Jean-Marc
Published: September 2022

Because of its simplicity, reliability, and replicability, the Masquelet induced membrane technique (IMT) has become one of the preferred methods for critical bone defect reconstruction in extremities. Although it is now used worldwide, few studies have been published about IMT in military practice. Bone reconstruction is particularly challenging in this context of care due to extensive soft-tissue injury, early wound infection, and even delayed management in austere conditions. Based on our clinical expertise, recent research, and a literature analysis, this narrative review provides an overview of the IMT application to combat-related bone defects. It presents technical specificities and future developments aiming to optimize IMT outcomes, including for the management of massive multi-tissue defects or bone reconstruction performed in the field with limited resources.
Analysis of the thinking process of pharmacists in response to changes in the dispensing environment using the eye-tracking method
Authors: Tsuji Toshikazu , Nagata Kenichiro , Sasaki Keiichi , Matsukane Ryosuke , Ishida Shigeru , Kawashiri Takehiro , Suetsugu Kimitaka , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Hirota Takeshi , Ieiri Ichiro
Published: September 2022

Background

Pharmacists must understand the mechanisms by which dispensing errors occur and take appropriate preventive measures. In this study, the gaze movements of pharmacists were analyzed using an eye-tracking method, to elucidate the thinking process of pharmacists when identifying target drugs and avoiding dispensing errors.

Methods

We prepared verification slides and projected them on a large screen. Each slide comprised a drug rack area and a prescription area; the former consisted of a grid-like layout with 55 drugs and the latter displayed dispensing information (drug name, drug usage, location number, and total amount). Twelve pharmacists participated in the study, and three single-type drugs and six double-type drugs were used as target drugs. We analyzed the pharmacists’ method of identifying the target drugs, the mechanisms by which errors occurred, and the usefulness of drug photographs using the error-induction (−) /photo (+), error-induction (+) / (+), and error-induction (+) /photo (−) models.

Results

Visual invasion by non-target drugs was found to have an effect on the subsequent occurrence of dispensing errors. In addition, when using error-induction models, the rate of dispensing error was 2.8 and 11.1% for the photo (+) and photo (−) models, respectively. Furthermore, based on the analysis of eight pharmacists who dispensed drugs without errors, it was clear that additional confirmation of “drug name” was required to accurately identify the target drug in the photo (+) model; additionally, that of “location number” was required to pinpoint directly the position of target drug in the photo (−) model.

Conclusions

By analyzing the gaze movements of pharmacists using the eye-tracking method, we clarified pharmacists’ thinking process which was required to avoid dispensing errors in a complicated environment and proved the usefulness of drug photographs in terms of both reducing the complexity of the dispensing process and the risk of dispensing errors. Effective measures to prevent dispensing errors include ensuring non-adjacent placement of double-type drugs and utilization of their image information.
Perioperative oral nutritional support for patients diagnosed with primary colon adenocarcinoma undergoing radical surgical procedures -Peri-Nutri Trial: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Aro Raila , Ohtonen Pasi , Rautio Tero , Saarnio Juha , Mäkäräinen Elisa , Häivälä Reetta , Mäkinen Markus J. , Tuomisto Anne , Schwab Ursula , Meriläinen Sanna
Published: September 2022

Background

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in Finland and worldwide. Cancer-related malnutrition is a well-known risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality after surgery, and it is associated with complications and longer hospitalizations. There are no established recommendations on how to improve the nutritional status of colon cancer patients´ during the perioperative phase. Administration of simple oral nutritional supplements has been suggested to reduce complication rates, but evidence to support this practice is scarce.

Methods

The Peri-Nutri trial is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled trial. Its primary endpoint is to evaluate whether perioperative oral nutritional support (ONS) decreases the number of complications during the 30-day follow-up after surgery. Secondary endpoints are to study the effect of ONS on quality of life after surgery, length of stay in institutional care, 90-day mortality rate, five-year disease-free survival and overall survival. The patients with a Nutritional risk screening 2002 (NRS-2002) questionnaire result between 2 and 5 (≥ 3 are classified at risk of malnutrition) will be randomized (1:1 ratio) into either the intervention or control group. The intervention group will receive preoperative ONS two weeks before the operation, and nutritional support will continue 10 days after the operation. The control group will not receive ONS. A total of 318 patients will be randomized into two groups and patients are followed five years.

Discussion

Peri-Nutri study evaluate the impact of ONS to short-term and long-term postoperative morbidity and mortality rates of colon cancer patients undergoing curative surgery. If ONS will decrease patients´ morbidity and mortality, that has a huge impact on patients´ quality of life and also to financial cost.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03863236, Registered 25 February 2019.
Prevalence of long-acting reversible contraceptive methods utilization and associated factors among counseled mothers in immediate postpartum period at Jimma University medical center, Ethiopia
Authors: Arero Wariyo D. , Teka Woubishet G. , Hebo Habtemu J. , Woyo Terefe , Amare Belay
Published: September 2022

Background

Postpartum family planning is defined as the prevention of unintended pregnancy and closely spaced pregnancies through the first twelve months following childbirth. The immediate postpartum period is particularly favorable time to provide long-acting reversible contraception methods; and postpartum provision is safe and effective. Despite the advantages of long acting reversible contraception methods, they may be infrequently used in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors of long-acting reversible contraceptive methods utilization among counseled mothers in immediate postpartum period.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 393 women who gave birth at Jimma University Medical Centre from 12 November 2016 to 21 January 2017, Ethiopia. Data were collected by face-to-face interview using pre-tested structured questionnaire and by record reviewing using data compiling form; and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Logistic regression was used to identify associated factors for long acting contraceptive methods use.P-value less than 0.05 at 95% confidence level was taken as significance level.

Results

Prevalence of reversible long acting contraceptive methods utilization among immediate postpartum mothers was 53.2% (209/393) and more than three-fourths (78.0%) of participants used implanon. The most common reported reason for not using reversible long acting contraceptive methods was preference of other contraceptive methods like short acting contraceptives (25.5%). Having more than four alive kids (AOR 2.6, 95% CI: 1.15,5.95), high monthly income (≥1000 ETB) (AOR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.08,7.20), planning to delay next pregnancy by more than 2 years (AOR 4.0, 95% CI: 1.60,9.28), mothers with no fertility desire (AOR 2.0, 95% CI: 1.12,3.15), prior use of reversible long acting contraceptive methods (AOR 3.0, 95% CI: 1.30,7.20) and receiving counseling during antenatal care follow-up and before delivery (AOR 2.0, 95% CI: 1.01, 4.73) were associated with immediate postpartum reversible long acting contraceptive methods use.

Conclusion and recommendations

Although the prevalence of reversible long acting contraceptive methods utilization in immediate postpartum was high, counseling mothers during ANC follow-up and before delivery can further increase its utilization. Therefore, the need for providing counseling during ANC follow up and before delivery to increase utilization of immediate postpartum reversible long acting contraceptive methods use is emphasized.
Translanguaging genre pedagogy: implications for teaching business communication in the Greater Bay Area
Authors: Wen Zhisheng , Zhang Lawrence Jun , Kong Hao , Han Lili
Published: September 2022

The present paper discusses how insights from translanguaging theory and pedagogy can help inform and promote genre pedagogy for teaching business communication courses such as writing and translation. To this end, the first part traces and reviews the developments of genre theory and pedagogy in tandem with translanguaging theory and pedagogy, thus teasing out their similarities and differences in historical roots, core premises, theoretical frameworks, and research methodologies. In light of these integrated accounts, the second part of the paper proposes a genre-based pedagogical framework augmented with key tenets and general principles of translanguaging pedagogy to design and implement task activities and classroom practice in teaching business communication courses in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The paper then outlines perceivable advantages and potential challenges to the application of this translanguaging-informed genre-based pedagogical approach in curriculum design and professional training practice in superdiverse megapolis regions such as the GBA.
The effectiveness of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide on Flexion Rotation Test, pain intensity, and functionality in subjects with Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials
Authors: Cardoso Ricardo , Seixas Adérito , Rodrigues Sandra , Moreira-Silva Isabel , Ventura Nuno , Azevedo Joana , Monsignori Filippo
Published: September 2022

Objective

To determine the effect of sustained natural apophyseal glide (SNAG) on Flexion Rotation Test, pain intensity, and functionality in subjects with Cervicogenic Headache (CH).

Methods

The research was conducted on five computerized databases PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, PEDro, Lilacs, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), using the keywords combination: (sustained natural apophyseal glide OR SNAG OR joint mobilization OR Mulligan) AND (cervicogenic headache) according to PRISMA guidelines. The methodological quality of the included studies was analyzed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale.

Results

Eight articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The selected studies had a methodological quality of 6.6/10 on the PEDro scale and included a total of 357 participants. The SNAG significantly improved pain, Flexion Rotation Test and reduced functional symptoms.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that SNAG may be a relevant intervention for CH.
Family sports interventions for the treatment of obesity in childhood: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Lihong , Liang Chao , Yu Yaona , Xiao Qian , Xi Maomao , Tang Lixu
Published: September 2022

Background

Obesity in children has become one of the key concerns of the World Health Organization, and the incidence of related non-communicable diseases is also rising. This study evaluates the effect of family sports participation on the treatment and prevention of obesity in children aged 0–14 years by systematic analysis.

Method

A literature review from 2000 to 2020 was conducted. According to PRISMA-IPD (Preferred Reporting Items for MetaAnalyses of individual participant data) guidelines. The two researchers independently assessed the risk and bias of the articles, obtained a comprehensive, high-quality result, and extracted the data based on the Cochrane intervention system review manual. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected from the searches that used family sports interventions or family sports combined with dietary adjustments and behavioral habits change. Only studies targeting overweight or obese children aged 0–14 years were included.

Results

The search resulted in a total of 16 studies. Across all 16 studies, there were a total of 1680 participants in the experimental groups and 1701 participants in the control groups. The results are as follows: body mass index (BMI) (SMD-RE = − 4.10, 95% CI (− 0.84 to 0.02), Z = 1.88, p = 0.06); Body weight (SMD-RE = − 0.77, 95% CI (− 1.53 to − 0.01), Z = 2.00, p = 0.05); Waist circumference (SMD-RE = − 0.45, 95% CI (− 1.36 to 0.47), Z = 0.96, p = 0.34); and Body fat rate (SMD-FE = − 0.06, 95% CI (− 0.22 to 0.11), Z = 0.69, p = 0.49). Hence, through family sports intervention among obese children, juvenile and obese body composition—BMI, body weight, waist circumference, and body fat rate—are all reduced. But only body weight was statistically significant.

Conclusions

Compared with the samples without family sports, the weight of obese children participating in family sports decreased, but there were no significant differences in other relevant physical indicators. Follow-up research should examine large-scale clinical trials with family sports as a single factor intervention, which are needed to provide stronger evidence of the intervention effect. However, family activities can help obese children grow and develop by improving their exercise capacity, enhancing their lifestyles, and facilitating communication and relationships with their parents. In the future, long-term sports training plans for children with obesity should be implemented.
Cholecystitis secondary to Salmonella typhi: a rare pathology with an unreported management option—a case report and literature review
Authors: Ghio Michael , Billiot Angelle , Zagory Jessica A. , Brandt Mary L.
Published: September 2022

Background

This report describes the presentation and course of treatment for one of the youngest reported cases of empyema of the gallbladder. Given the rare occurrence of this disease process, we elected to proceed with a systematic review of the literature. This is only the 7th case series discussing pediatric empyema of the gallbladder due to Salmonella typhi in the literature, and the second case ever reported in the USA.

Case presentation

We report a case of a previously healthy 13-month-old girl who presented with diffuse peritonitis and equivocal imaging studies. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed purulent peritonitis. The gallbladder was distended with intraluminal pus. Laparoscopy was converted to laparotomy to facilitate exposure, and a cholecystostomy tube was placed. Cultures from the fluid were positive for Salmonella typhi. The patient received a 14-day course of intravenous Ceftriaxone followed by 14 days of oral amoxicillin and clavulanate. A cholangiogram performed 8 weeks after surgery confirmed normal biliary anatomy. The cholecystostomy tube was removed. The patient recovered uneventfully and is doing well over 9 months later.

Conclusion

There is no consensus on treatment with options reported ranging from medical management with antibiotic therapy to more invasive procedures such as cholecystostomy tube or cholecystectomy. Less invasive management options are an alternative for Salmonella cholecystitis.
Dynamic performance of simply supported girder bridges subjected to successive earthquake-tsunami events
Authors: Feng Ruiwei , Zhu Deming , Dong You
Published: September 2022

Coastal bridges are susceptible to severe damage when subjected to successive earthquake-tsunami events. Previous studies mainly consider the tsunami loadings as hydrodynamic forces, whereas other hydrodynamic forces such as uplift and slamming forces, are not fully investigated. Moreover, there are limited studies on the dynamic performance of simply supported girder bridges under the earthquake-tsunami sequences. To this end, this paper aims to conduct an in-depth investigation on dynamic performance of simply supported bridges subjected to sequential earthquake and tsunami hazards by means of a high-fidelity wave force simulation approach. More specifically, a typical, already constructed simply supported girder bridge is taken as the example bridge, and the numerical model of this bridge is built using the analytical platform OpenSees. The applied time series of tsunami wave force with five wave heights are generated based on a refined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, and are separately combined with the time histories of 21 pairs of far-field earthquake records to generate the sequential earthquake and tsunami loadings. Subsequently, nonlinear time history analyses (NTHAs) are carried out to obtain the structural dynamic responses, and the effects of preceding earthquakes and wave heights on the performance are investigated. Results indicate that the bearings are susceptible to the damage in the longitudinal direction of the bridge under the sequential earthquake and tsunami loadings, while the piers sustain more damage in the transverse direction. The preceding earthquakes have a significant effect on the bridge performance, and the effect becomes more pronounced with the increase of the ground motion intensity. The contribution of the tsunami loadings to the bridge response increases as the wave height rises. In particular, the transverse pier drift is dominated by the tsunami loadings when the wave height is higher than 7 m. The outcome of this study could aid the design and management of coastal bridge subjected to successive earthquake-tsunami events.
Associations between meeting the Canadian 24-hour movement guidelines and physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and overall development in early childhood
Authors: Kuzik Nicholas , Spence John C. , Arkko Kevin , Blye Clara-Jane , Davie Jenna , Duddridge Ria , Ekeli Tyler , English April , Etruw Evelyn , Hunter Stephen , Lamboglia Carminda Goersch , Nesdoly Autumn , Predy Madison , Rubuliak Rebecca , Wohlers Brendan , Wright Kelsey , Carson Valerie
Published: September 2022

Background

The importance of all movement behaviours (i.e., sleep, sedentary behaviour, and physical activity) for children's health has led to the creation of national and international 24-h movement behaviour guidelines for children. Few studies have examined the associations between guideline adherence and a broad array of health indicators in early childhood, and no study has done so with composite development scores for overall development. The objective of the present study was to examine associations for 24-h movement guideline adherence with physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and overall development indicators in a sample of 3–5-year-olds.

Methods

Children (n = 95) were recruited for this cross-sectional study in Edmonton, Canada. Sleep, light-intensity physical activity, and moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity were measured with ActiGraph wGT3X-BT accelerometers. Screen time was measured via parental-report. Guideline recommendation adherence was categorized using the Canadian 24-h Movement Guidelines. Composite z-scores were created for physical (i.e., adiposity, growth, motor skills), cognitive (i.e., vocabulary, executive functions), social-emotional (i.e., self-regulation, social-emotional behaviours), and overall development. Linear regression models were conducted to examine associations between meeting different recommendation combinations (e.g., physical activity alone, combination of physical activity and sleep), and number of recommendations met (e.g., meeting only one of any of the recommendations) with each composite development outcome variable adjusted for relevant covariates.

Results

Most children were 3–4 years old (77%) and males (69%). The physical activity guideline recommendation was the most frequently met single recommendation (94%), while the physical activity and sleep recommendations (80%) were the most frequently met combination of two recommendations. Further, 43% of children met all three recommendations. Meeting the sleep recommendation was positively associated with overall development (B: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.08–0.50), while meeting both the sleep and physical activity recommendations was positively associated with overall (B: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.10–0.46) and physical (B: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.03–0.51) development.

Conclusions

Meeting sleep recommendations alone, as well as the combination of sleep and physical activity recommendations were associated with better physical and overall development in this sample. Future research should continue to examine a broad array of development outcomes using longitudinal study designs across early childhood.
Introduction to this special section: Digital transformation
Authors: Kazei Vladimir , Sengupta Mita
Published: September 2022

The evolution of computational hardware and software, complemented by large volumes of usable data, creates new opportunities for technological innovation in the energy industry. Digital transformation is the process of adopting existing technologies (such as cloud services) and developing new technologies (such as machine learning applications) that improve business processes. Energy companies must follow the digital transformation to stay competitive (e.g., Kraus et al., 2022 ).