bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of preoperative glycemic control in decreasing surgical site infections in lower extremity fractures
Authors: Morisaki Shinsuke , Yoshii Kengo , Tsuchida Shinji , Oda Ryo , Fuke Tomoya , Takahashi Kenji
Published: September 2023

Background

Postoperative surgical site infections (SSIs) are an important complication to prevent in surgical treatment. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have a higher risk of SSIs. Preoperative glycemic control is required. For patients with orthopedic trauma, the duration of preoperative glycemic control is limited because delaying operative treatment is difficult. However, whether preoperative glycemic control would decrease the risk of SSIs in diabetic patients with lower extremity fractures is unclear. The first aim of this study was to investigate the rate of SSIs among patients with DM who had undergone preoperative glycemic control, compared with that of patients without DM. As the secondary aim, we sought to demonstrate among patients with DM whether preoperative glycemic control would affect the development of SSIs between patients with controlled DM and patients with poorly controlled DM.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 1510 patients treated surgically for lower extremity fractures were enrolled. Data collected were patient age, sex, body mass index, history of DM, development of SSIs, tobacco use, the presence of an open fracture, the period between the day of injury and the operation, the length of surgery, and blood glucose levels on admission and on the day before surgery.

Results

The rate of total SSIs was 6.0% among patients with DM and 4.4% among patients without DM (p = 0.31). Multivariate logistic regression revealed a significant association between the development of SSIs and the presence of DM (odds ratio, 1.79; 95% confidence interval 1.01–3.19; p = 0.047). The results of the secondary study revealed that the rate of early SSIs was significantly higher in the poorly controlled DM group than in the controlled DM group (5.9% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.032). However, multivariate logistic regression revealed that control levels of DM were not significantly associated with the development of SSIs.

Conclusions

Even though patients with DM had undergone preoperative glycemic control, SSIs were significantly associated with DM, especially when the patients had poorly controlled DM. This finding suggested that continuous glycemic control is important preoperatively and postoperatively to prevent SSIs.
Safe range of femoral neck system insertion and the risk of perforation
Authors: Han Mingxuan , Li Cong , Han Ning , Sun Guixin
Published: September 2023

Background

Internal fixation of the femoral neck carries a risk of perforation due to the presence of the isthmus of the femoral neck. At present, there are few studies on the safe and risk zones of the femoral neck system (FNS) implantation. This study aimed to recommend the safe range of injection of FNS in the lateral wall of the proximal femur, parallel to the axis of the femoral neck, during FNS treatment of femoral neck fracture (FNF).

Methods

Femoral computed tomography (CT) data of 80 patients (male: 40; female: 40) who met the inclusion criteria were collected. Mimics 21.0 software was used to complete the modeling. 3-Matic 13.0 software was used to establish the axis of the femoral neck and its vertical plane, perform the cutting of the femoral neck, and project it on the vertical plane of the femoral neck axis. After matching a rectangle for each projection map, all sample sizes (80 cases) were standardized and superimposed to obtain gradient maps of the safe zone (SZ) and dangerous zone (RZ), thereby securing edge key points and safe FNS insertion range.

Results

In the 80 samples, the mean diameter of the smallest femoral neck section was 33.87 ± 2.32 mm for men and 29.36 ± 1.92 mm for women. All 80 femoral necks had safe and risky areas. The SZ/S × 100% was 77.59 (± 2.22%), and the RS/S × 100% was 22.39% (± 2.22%). The risk area was composed of four parts: (1), (2), (3), and (4), respectively, corresponding to 3.45 ± 1.74%, 5.51 ± 2.63%, 6.22 ± 1.41%, and 7.22 ± 1.39%. Four marginal key points, perforation risk, and safe ranges (SR) of FNS were analyzed on the lateral wall of the femoral neck.

Conclusions

The SR of FNS placement was recommended by digital simulation. In addition, Regions (3) and (4) posed a higher risk of penetrating the cortex. Using the gradient map of RZ for preoperative evaluation is recommended to avoid iatrogenic perforation.
Feasibility of HEMS performed prehospital extracorporeal-cardiopulmonary resuscitation in paediatric cardiac arrests; two case reports
Authors: Mommers Lars , Slagt Cornelis , RN Freek Coumou , van der Crabben Ruben , Moors Xavier , Dos Reis Miranda Dinis
Published: September 2023

Introduction

A broad range of pathophysiologic conditions can lead to cardiopulmonary arrest in children. Some of these children suffer from refractory cardiac arrest, not responding to basic and advanced life support. Extracorporeal-Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (E-CPR) might be a life-saving option for this group. Currently this therapy is only performed in-hospital, often necessitating long transport times, thereby negatively impacting eligibility and chances of survival. We present the first two cases of prehospital E-CPR in children performed by regular Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS).

Case presentations

The first patient was a previously healthy 7 year old boy who was feeling unwell for a couple of days due to influenza. His course deteriorated into a witnessed collapse. Direct bystander CPR and subsequent ambulance advanced life support was unsuccessful in establishing a perfusing rhythm. While doing chest compressions, the patient was seen moving both his arms and making spontaneous breathing efforts. Echocardiography however revealed a severe left ventricular impairment (near standstill). The second patient was a 15 year old girl, known with bronchial asthma and poor medication compliance. She suffered yet another asthmatic attack, so severe that she progressed into cardiac arrest in front of the attending ambulance and HEMS crews. Despite maximum bronchodilator therapy, intubation and the exclusion of tension pneumothoraxes and dynamic hyperinflation, no cardiac output was achieved.

Intervention

After consultation with the nearest paediatric E-CPR facilities, both patients were on-scene cannulated by regular HEMS. The femoral artery and vein were cannulated (15-17Fr and 21Fr respectively) under direct ultrasound guidance using an out-of-plane Seldinger approach. Extracorporeal Life Support flow of 2.1 and 3.8 l/min was established in 20 and 16 min respectively (including preparation and cannulation). Both patients were transported uneventfully to the nearest paediatric intensive care with spontaneous breathing efforts and reactive pupils during transport.

Conclusion

This case-series shows that a properly trained regular HEMS crew of only two health care professionals (doctor and flight nurse) can establish E-CPR on-scene in (older) children. Ambulance transport with ongoing CPR is challenging, even more so in children since transportation times tend to be longer compared to adults and automatic chest compression devices are often unsuitable and/or unapproved for children. Prehospital cannulation of susceptible E-CPR candidates has the potential to reduce low-flow time and offer E-CPR therapy to a wider group of children suffering refractory cardiac arrest.
Initial boundary value problem for a viscoelastic wave equation with Balakrishnan–Taylor damping and a delay term: decay estimates and blow-up result
Authors: Gheraibia Billel , Boumaza Nouri
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we study the initial boundary value problem for the following viscoelastic wave equation with Balakrishnan–Taylor damping and a delay term where the relaxation function satisfies$g'(t)\leq -\xi (t)g^{r}(t)$g′(t)≤−ξ(t)gr(t),$t\geq 0$t≥0,$1\leq r< \frac{3}{2}$1≤r<32. The main goal of this work is to study the global existence, general decay, and blow-up result. The global existence has been obtained by potential-well theory, the decay of solutions of energy has been established by introducing suitable energy and Lyapunov functionals, and a blow-up result has been obtained with negative initial energy.
The clinical application of ctDNA to predict response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally-advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Pezeshki Parmida Sadat , Ghalehtaki Reza
Published: September 2023

Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. A third of colorectal cancers reside in the rectum. Many patients with rectal cancer present in the locally-advanced stage which needs multi-modality therapy usually starting with neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy followed by surgery and adjuvant systemic chemotherapy. Total neoadjuvant therapy, defined as the preoperative administration of both neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and systemic chemotherapy is also an evolving treatment that can be delivered if indications for preoperative chemotherapy exist. Identifying biomarkers to predict response to neoadjuvant therapy, can improve patient selection for a non-surgical, active surveillance approach. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can be detected in about 75% of patients with locally-advanced rectal cancer (LARC) at the baseline and in about 15–20% of patients in the post-neoadjuvant, or postoperative setting. ctDNA clearance rate after delivering neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, or integrating baseline ctDNA with other conventional markers of clinical response can be a promising marker to select and monitor patients on the “watch and wait” approach. In this article, we aimed to integrate the recent findings and provide a unique insight into the utilization of preoperative ctDNA to predict clinical response in patients with LARC. We also sought to highlight the potential areas for future research in this field. Further studies with a larger number of participants from diverse populations and settings are needed to increase external validity of such investigations and determine the role of ctDNA in guiding clinical decisions and management of patients with LARC.
Pretreatment 18F‐FDG uptake heterogeneity may predict treatment outcome of combined Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab therapy in patients with metastatic HER2 positive breast cancer
Authors: Ma Guang , You Shuhui , Xie Yizhao , Gu Bingxin , Liu Cheng , Hu Xichun , Song Shaoli , wang Biyun , Yang Zhongyi
Published: September 2023

Objective

Intra-tumoral heterogeneity of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) uptake has been proven to be a surrogate marker for predicting treatment outcome in various tumors. However, the value of intra-tumoral heterogeneity in metastatic Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER2) positive breast cancer (MHBC) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate 18F‐FDG uptake heterogeneity to predict the treatment outcome of the dual target therapy with Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab(TP) in MHBC.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with MHBC who underwent 18F-FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan before TP were enrolled retrospectively. The region of interesting (ROI) of the lesions were drawn, and maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax), mean standard uptake value (SUVmean), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and heterogeneity index (HI) were recorded. Correlation between PET/CT parameters and the treatment outcome was analyzed by Spearman Rank Test. The ability to predict prognosis were determined by time‐dependent survival receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. And the survival analyses were then estimated by Kaplan‐Meier method and compared by log‐rank test.

Results

The survival analysis showed that HI50% calculated by delineating the lesion with 50%SUVmax as threshold was a significant predictor of patients with MHBC treated by the treatment with TP. Patients with HI50% (≥ 1.571) had a significantly worse prognosis of progression free survival (PFS) (6.87 vs. Not Reach, p = 0.001). The area under curve (AUC), the sensitivity and the specificity were 0.88, 100% and 63.6% for PFS, respectively.

Conclusion

18F-FDG uptake heterogeneity may be useful for predicting the prognosis of MHBC patients treated by TP.
Embracing team heterogeneity: a case study of the collaborative teaching practice in an international kindergarten in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Jessie Ming Sin
Published: September 2023

International kindergartens, which offer an immersive dual-language (English and Chinese) environment, are popular among middle-class families in Hong Kong. The international learning and teaching environment is cultivated primarily by developing a diverse workforce, in which Chinese-speaking (Putonghua and/or Cantonese) teachers with local training or from mainland China generally work with their English-speaking counterparts from overseas in the same classroom. Such heterogeneity has complicated the already challenging concept of collaborative teaching. This article presents a case study of the collaborative teaching practice in a trilingual international kindergarten which had been established for over 50 years. Through in-depth interviews, questionnaires, text messaging, document analysis, site visits, and observations, the study examined the collaborative teaching practices among international colleagues in the kindergarten. The findings revealed that collaboration among international colleagues was made successful by (1) senior management and teachers sharing a common goal; (2) a dynamic whole-school supportive structure that embraced heterogeneity; and (3) the development of a shared culture of professional learning. The implications of these findings for management, practice, and research are discussed, including the need to foster a culture of collaboration, the importance of professional development, and the need for further research on collaborative teaching practices in diverse educational settings.
Lifestyle determinants as predictor of severity of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)
Authors: Attia Abeer , Labib Nargis Albert , Abdelzaher Noha Essameldin Elsayed , Musa Sherief , Atef Mira
Published: September 2023

Background

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a public health issue that can result in liver cirrhosis and its complications.

Aim of work

Assess the dietary pattern, physical activity, and sleep quality of MAFLD patients.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of 77 MAFLD patients being present in the outpatient clinic of Endemic Medicine Department at Cairo University Hospital. An interview questionnaire including sociodemographic, medical history, validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) were utilized to collect data.

Results

Among patients, 36%, 34%, and 30% had liver steatosis grades I (mild), II (moderate), and III (severe) respectively. Waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), daily caloric and carbohydrate intake, impaired sleep quality, and low physical activity were significantly linked with steatosis grades. The independent significant predictors for MAFLD severity were waist circumference (P = 0.011, OR 1.119), poor sleep quality (P = 0.038, OR 3.871), habitual sleep efficiency (OR 3.402, 95%CI 1.403–8.252), daytime dysfunction (OR 2.487, 95%CI 1.374–4.501), and physical activity (P = 0.027, OR 4.6).

Conclusion

Waist circumference, poor sleep quality, habitual sleep efficiency, daytime dysfunction, and low physical activity were the real marked predictors for MAFLD severity.
Frequency selective fingerprint sensor: the Terahertz unity platform for broadband chiral enantiomers multiplexed signals and narrowband molecular AIT enhancement
Authors: Lyu Jiaming , Shen Shengyuan , Chen Lin , Zhu Yiming , Zhuang Songlin
Published: September 2023

Chiral enantiomers have different pharmacological and pharmacokinetic characteristics. It is important to strictly detect chiral component for avoiding being harmful to the human body due to side effects. Terahertz (THz) trace fingerprint detection is essential because the molecular vibrations of various biological substances such as chiral enantiomers are located in THz range. Recent reported enhanced trace fingerprint technologies have some drawbacks. For instance, multiplexing technology suffered from narrow operation range and limitation by frequency resolution of commercial THz time domain spectroscopy; Absorption induced transparency (AIT) identification for narrowband molecular oscillations suffered from random resonance frequency drift due to fabrication error. In this paper, we proposed frequency-selective fingerprint sensor (FSFS), which can experimentally achieve enhanced trace fingerprint detection by both broadband multiplexing technology and robust AIT identification. Such FSFS is based on polarization independent reconfiguration metasurfaces array. Broadband absorption lines of trace-amount chiral carnitine were boosted with absorption enhancement factors of about 7.3 times based on frequency-selective multiplexing at 0.95–2.0 THz. Enhanced trace narrowband α-lactose fingerprint sensing can be observed at several array structures with absorption enhancement factors of about 7 times based on AIT, exhibiting good robustness. The flexibility and versatility of proposed FSFS has potential applications for boosting trace chiral enantiomer detection as well as diversity of molecular fingerprints identification by both multiplexing and AIT.
Early application of continuous positive airway pressure in COVID-19 patients at risk of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Emad Zeinab , Ibrahim Mohammed A. , Abdelgawad TahaTaha , Saleh Abdelbaset M.
Published: September 2023

Context

Respiratory support is an essential part in treating COVID-19 patients at risk for developing respiratory failure, and this become certain if associated with other comorbidities specifically obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Aim

To evaluate the role of early use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in management of moderate to severe COVID-19 patients at risk of OSA.

Settings and design

This was experimental clinical trial.

Patients and methods

Eighty (80) patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 at risk of OSA were enrolled. They were simply randomized into two equal groups: non-CPAP group and CPAP group. Non-CPAP group will receive medical treatment plus oxygen therapy according to recommendation of protocol of the Egyptian Ministry of Health 2020 and CPAP group as in non-CPAP group plus using CPAP.

Results

Our findings showed that there were higher percentages in hospital deaths and longer duration of hospital stay as well as increased need for invasive mechanical ventilation in non-CPAP group compared to CPAP group patients: (P-value = 0.03), (P-value = 0.04), and (P-value = 0.01), respectively. Also, there was a significant difference on PH, CO2, HCO3, and D-dimer values on both groups on admission and during follow-up with notable decrease in their values in CPAP group compared to non-CPAP group: (P-value = 0.04), (P-value = 0.003), (P-value = 0.001), and (P-value = 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

Early CPAP therapy for moderate and severe COVID-19 hospitalized patients with risk of OSA could improve patient’s survival, shorten hospital stay, and decrease need for invasive mechanical ventilation.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov/NCT05934916. Registered 6 July 2023 — retrospectively registered.
How committed individuals shape social dynamics: A survey on coordination games and social dilemma games
Authors: Shen Chen , Guo Hao , Hu Shuyue , Shi Lei , Wang Zhen , Tanimoto Jun
Published: September 2023

Committed individuals, who feature steadfast dedication to advocating strong beliefs, values, and preferences, have garnered much attention across statistical physics, social science, and computer science. This survey delves into the profound impact of committed individuals on social dynamics that emerge from coordination games and social dilemma games. Through separate examinations of their influence on coordination, including social conventions and color coordination games, and social dilemma games, including one-shot settings, repeated settings, and vaccination games, this survey reveals the significant role committed individuals play in shaping social dynamics. Their contributions range from accelerating or overturning social conventions to addressing cooperation dilemmas and expediting solutions for color coordination and vaccination issues. Furthermore, the survey outlines three promising directions for future research: conducting human behavior experiments for empirical validation, leveraging advanced large language models as proxies for committed individuals in complex scenarios, and addressing the potential negative impacts of committed individuals.
Moderate heat stress-induced sterility is due to motility defects and reduced mating drive in Caenorhabditis elegans males
Authors: Sepulveda Nicholas B. , Chen Donald , Petrella Lisa N.
Published: September 2023

Moderate heat stress negatively impacts fertility in sexually reproducing organisms at sublethal temperatures. These moderate heat stress effects are typically more pronounced in males. In some species, sperm production, quality and motility are the primary cause of male infertility during moderate heat stress. However, this is not the case in the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, where changes in mating behavior are the primary cause of fertility loss. We report that heat-stressed C. elegans males are more motivated to locate and remain on food and less motivated to leave food to find and mate with hermaphrodites than their unstressed counterparts. Heat-stressed males also demonstrate a reduction in motility that likely limits their ability to mate. Collectively these changes result in a dramatic reduction in reproductive success. The reduction in mate-searching behavior may be partially due to increased expression of the chemoreceptor odr-10 in the AWA sensory neurons, which is a marker for starvation in males. These results demonstrate that moderate heat stress may have profound and previously underappreciated effects on reproductive behaviors. As climate change continues to raise global temperatures, it will be imperative to understand how moderate heat stress affects behavioral and motility elements critical to reproduction.
Ο αντίκτυπος της εταιρικής διακυβέρνησης στις ελεγκτικές δαπάνες και την καθυστέρηση ελέγχου
Authors: Μιτσκίνης Δημήτριος
Published: September 2023

Η παρούσα έρευνα εξετάζει τη σχέση μεταξύ των χαρακτηριστικών της Ε.Ε. με τις ελεγκτικές αμοιβές και την καθυστέρηση ελέγχου κατά τα τέσσερα πρώτα χρόνια εφαρμογής του ελληνικού Ν. 4449/2017 που αύξησε τις αρμοδιότητες της Ε.Ε. και της έδωσε ρόλο ρυθμιστή στο έργο και τις αμοιβές του εξωτερικού ελεγκτή. Η μελέτη της βιβλιογραφίας, αρχικά, περιλαμβάνει μια πλήρη μελέτη των αρμοδιοτήτων και των χαρακτηριστικών της Ε.Ε. και στη συνέχεια μια ανασκόπηση αναφορικά με τον ρόλο της Ε.Ε. και της σχέσης των χαρακτηριστικών της με τις ελεγκτικές αμοιβές και την καθυστέρηση ελέγχου, δείχνοντας την παγκόσμια εξέλιξη, αλλά και το ερευνητικό κενό στην Ελλάδα. Η μελέτη αυτή, επιλέγει τα χαρακτηριστικά της Ε.Ε. που αναφέρονται στο μέγεθος, την ανεξαρτησία των μελών, τη συχνότητα των συνεδριάσεων, τη χρηματοοικονομική γνώση τους, την προηγούμενη εμπειρία τους σε Ε.Ε., καθώς και το ποσοστό συμμετοχής των γυναικών στην επιτροπή. Επιπλέον, στις πρόσθετες μεταβλητές που εξετάζονται και αναφέρονται στα οικονομικά στοιχεία της ελεγχόμενης εταιρείας, περιλαμβάνονται χαρακτηριστικά του Δ.Σ. αλλά και της ελεγκτικής εταιρείας. Η παρούσα έρευνα χρησιμοποιώντας δείγμα 100 εισηγμένων εταιρειών στο Χρηματιστήριο Αξιών Αθηνών, συνολικά 400 παρατηρήσεις, δείχνει ότι το μέγεθος της Ε.Ε., η ανεξαρτησία των μελών της, η επιμέλεια της Ε.Ε. και η χρηματοοικονομική γνώση των μελών της σχετίζονται θετικά με τις ελεγκτικές αμοιβές. Αναφορικά, με την καθυστέρηση ελέγχου, η έρευνα δείχνει ότι η συχνότητα των συνεδριάσεων της Ε.Ε. συσχετίζεται αρνητικά με αυτή. Συνεπώς, η μελέτη αυτή προσφέρει μια χρήσιμη ανατροφοδότηση στους υπεύθυνους χάραξης πολιτικής και τους νομοθέτες που καθορίζουν και διαμορφώνουν τη νομοθεσία της Ε.Δ. ανάλογα με Ευρωπαϊκές Οδηγίες. Τέλος, η μελέτη παρέχει πολλές επιδράσεις στους ελεγκτές, τα συμβούλια και τους μελετητές της Ε.Δ., που μεριμνούν για τη βελτίωση των οικονομικών εκθέσεων των εταιρειών.
Test-Retest Reliability of a Physical Activity Behavior, Health and Wellbeing Questionnaire in Adolescents
Authors: Rocliffe Padraic , Sherwin Ian , Mannix-McNamara Patricia , MacDonncha Ciaran , T. O' Keeffe Brendan
Published: September 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the test-retest reliability of the physical activity behavior, health and wellbeing questionnaire, in adolescent populations, administered by teachers in school settings, in the Republic of Ireland.  

Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed sample of 55 participants (45.5% males: Age, 13.94 (±.40) were included. The participants completed the questionnaire on two occasions (T1 and T2), on the same day and time, one week apart following identical procedures. Variables for testing included physical activity behavior (n=13), health (n=11) and wellbeing (n=2). Test-retest reliability of the questionnaire’s covariates, including family affluence and physical impairments were also examined.

Results: Systematic error (Bland-Altman plots) was found to be near to zero for each of the physical activity behavior, health and wellbeing variables. The combined mean coefficient of variation was lower for females (10.19%) in comparison to males (13.01%). Similarly, the combined mean intraclass correlation coefficients were higher for females (>.901) than males (>.822).  

Conclusions: This study found the physical activity behavior, health and wellbeing questionnaire to be reliable for use in adolescent populations.
Human judgement forecasting of COVID-19 in the UK
Authors: Bosse Nikos I. , Abbott Sam , Bracher Johannes , van Leeuwen Edwin , Cori Anne , Funk Sebastian
Published: September 2023

Background:

In the past, two studies found ensembles of human judgement forecasts of COVID-19 to show predictive performance comparable to ensembles of computational models, at least when predicting case incidences. We present a follow-up to a study conducted in Germany and Poland and investigate a novel joint approach to combine human judgement and epidemiological modelling. 

Methods:

From May 24th to August 16th 2021, we elicited weekly one to four week ahead forecasts of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in the UK from a crowd of human forecasters. A median ensemble of all forecasts was submitted to the European Forecast Hub. Participants could use two distinct interfaces: in one, forecasters submitted a predictive distribution directly, in the other forecasters instead submitted a forecast of the effective reproduction number Rt. This was then used to forecast cases and deaths using simulation methods from the EpiNow2 R package. Forecasts were scored using the weighted interval score on the original forecasts, as well as after applying the natural logarithm to both forecasts and observations. 

Results:

The ensemble of human forecasters overall performed comparably to the official European Forecast Hub ensemble on both cases and deaths, although results were sensitive to changes in details of the evaluation. Rt forecasts performed comparably to direct forecasts on cases, but worse on deaths. Self-identified “experts” tended to be better calibrated than “non-experts” for cases, but not for deaths.

Conclusions:

Human judgement forecasts and computational models can produce forecasts of similar quality for infectious disease such as COVID-19. The results of forecast evaluations can change depending on what metrics are chosen and judgement on what does or doesn't constitute a "good" forecast is dependent on the forecast consumer. Combinations of human and computational forecasts hold potential but present real-world challenges that need to be solved.
MOSAIC: A cohort study of human mpox virus disease
Authors: Pesonel Elise , Hoffmann Isabelle , Guiraud Laetitia , Bourner Josephine , Diallo Alpha , Dunning Jake , Horby Peter , Kali Sabrina , Laouénan Cédric , Mentré France , Merson Laura , Molino Diana , Palich Romain , Rojek Amanda , Tacconelli Evelina , Tardivon Coralie ,   MOSAIC study group, Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Calmy Alexandra , Lescure F-Xavier , Olliaro Piero
Published: September 2023

Background: Human mpox is a viral disease caused by an Orthopoxvirus, human mpox virus (hMPXV), typically causing fever and a rash. Mpox has historically been endemic to parts of Central and West Africa, with small numbers of imported cases reported elsewhere, but starting May 2022 an unprecedented global outbreak caused by clade IIb hMPXV was reported outside traditionally endemic countries. This prompted the initiation of MOSAIC, a cohort study implemented in Europe and Asia that aims to describe clinical and virologic outcomes of PCR-confirmed hMPXV disease, including those who receive antiviral therapy. The study is ongoing.

Methods: MOSAIC recruits participants of any age with laboratory-confirmed mpox disease who provide informed consent. Participants enrol in the cohort for a total of six months. Blood, lesion and throat samples are collected at several timepoints from the day of diagnosis or the first day of treatment (Day 1) until Day 28 for PCR detection of hMPXV. Clinical data are collected by clinicians and participants (via a self-completion questionnaire) for six months to characterize the signs and symptoms associated with the illness, as well as short- and more long-term outcomes.

Discussion: The design and prompt implementation of clinical research response is key in addressing emerging outbreaks. MOSAIC began enrolment within two months of the start of the international mpox epidemic. While the number of cases is now low, the study remains open for inclusion.

ICTRP registration: EU CT number: 2022-501132-42-00 (22/06/2022)
The genome sequence of a ground beetle, Leistus spinibarbis (Fabricius, 1775)
Authors: Barclay Maxwell V. L. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: September 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Leistus spinibarbis (a ground beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Carabidae). The genome sequence is 235.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 23 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.82 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 23,576 protein coding genes.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome - living with chronic pain. Current knowledge of the disease
Authors: Olszak Joanna , Kapłan Wojciech , Rachwał Dominika , Piątek Ewa , Zalewa Karolina , Bartoszek Lidia , Czelej Magdalena , Stachowicz Hubert , Mazurek Joanna
Published: September 2023

Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of the most common inherited connective tissue disorders. The main symptoms of this syndrome are excessive skin flexibility, joint hypermobility and blood vessels fragility. The diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, but to confirm the type of EDS, it is necessary to identify the collagen-encoding gene or protein interacting with it. The group of Ehlers and Danlos diseases include fourteen types, the most common are classic, vascular, hypermobile, arthrochalasis, kyphoscoliotic and dermatosparaxis. [15] Connective tissue plays a key role in the process of movement, constituting the main component of bones, joint cartilage, tendons, ligaments and intervertebral discs. In addition, connective tissue is a part of every internal organ including the intestines and parenchymal organs and the cardiovascular system.[19] For this reason, patients with EDS show symptoms of many diseases, including respiratory, muscular, skeletal and vascular. Women suffering from EDS often struggle with complications during their pregnancies. Psychological and emotional issues are also common.[6] However, the most noticeable and debilitating symptom of EDS is pain, which is often severe and chronic. The pain occurs in approximately 90% or more of EDS patients.[8] Successful pain management in patients with EDS is a major challenge for specialists. The treatment involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, opioids and physiotherapy. Also marijuana, traditional chinese treatments, herbal remedies are considered to reduce the severity of the symptoms. [9] During the creation of this article, the authors analyzed the clinically relevant knowledge of EDS treatment and management based on research published on Pubmed.
Chilling Effect of the Enforcement of Computer Misuse Act: Evidence from Publicly Accessible Hack Forums
Authors: Wang Qiu-Hong , Geng Ruibin , Kim Seung Hyun
Published: September 2023

To reduce the availability of hacking tools for use in cybersecurity offenses, many countries have enacted computer misuse acts (CMA) that criminalize the production, distribution, and possession of such tools with criminal intent. Nevertheless, our research illuminates an unintended consequence: the chilling effect of CMA enforcement on legitimate cybersecurity discussions, some of which may be desirable for cybersecurity research, within online hack forums. More importantly, this study uniquely examines the chilling effect stemming from users’ fear of legal harm. Drawing on decision-making theories related to choice under uncertainty, we derive new insights into how legal enforcement can suppress lawful acts and reveal the dynamics of social categorization online. Our research offers valuable insights for policymakers and forum administrators. Policymakers can use our findings to mitigate unnecessary uncertainty in legal enforcement such as CMA. This includes developing legal cases to prevent false prosecutions, implementing tailored communication strategies for inexperienced individuals, and considering supplementary measures like licensing and community recognition. A transparent mechanism involving a neutral panel can also be established to ensure legal interpretations align with community norms. Forum administrators, on the other hand, can provide additional information and guidelines, foster responsible online environments, and align resources with professional standards to navigate the uncertain legal landscape and mitigate the chilling effect on knowledge-sharing.
Implicit Incentives and Delegation in Teams
Authors: Upton Harvey
Published: September 2023

We study an infinitely repeated game of team production, where agents must supply costly effort under moral hazard. The principal also has the option to delegate an additional production-relevant decision to a team member. We provide conditions under which delegation changes the scope of peer sanction and thus influences the implicit incentives generated by the agents’ repeated interaction. Delegation can then become strictly optimal, despite misaligned preferences and symmetric information regarding the efficient decision. We show that implicit incentives under delegation are strongest in diverse teams and use our results to discuss various aspects of organizational design, including self-organized teamwork.

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.

Funding: This work was supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft [Project-ID 403041268—TRR 266 Accounting for Transparency].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02212 .
Awareness of Endoscopy Nurses About Anesthesia Management in the Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit; A Survey Study
Authors: SEVER Feyza , HIZLI Şamil
Published: September 2023

Objective: We aimed to determine the awareness and knowledge levels of endoscopy nurses working in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy units on anesthesia applications they encountered in clinical practice.
Material and Methods: Endoscopy nurses that work in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy units in Turkey were invited to this study. Among the 33 questions, seven were in the section questioning the endoscopy nurses’ demographics and occupational working time (Section 1). In the other part, 16 questions were asked about what should be known during the anesthesia administration and recovery process (Section 2). The remaining 10 questions were statements that determined the level of awareness regarding anesthesia practices in pediatric GI endoscopy units. (Section 3)
Results: The total of 80 participants’ mean age was 40.3±9.1 years, and 91.3% were female. Seventy seven percent of the participants replied “yes” to the statement of “The endoscopy nurse should be able to evaluate possible complications by considering the ASA classification of the patients.” Thirty five percent of participants knew about the Modified Aldrete Scoring system. The mean age, total working time, and working time in the pediatric GI endoscopy unit were found to be lower in those who agreed with the statement "Patients can be discharged with their parents/caregiver without any scoring or criteria evaluation two hours after the procedure"
Conclusion: In conclusion, although the pediatric endoscopy nurse is not responsible for anesthesia management practices, their awareness and knowledge about anesthesia management play a key role for the endoscopy and the anesthesia team in ensuring patient safety.
Multi-level Power Series Solution for Large Surface and Volume Electric Field Integral Equation
Authors: Negi Y. K. , Balakrishnan N. , Rao S. M.
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a new multi-level power series solution method for solving a large surface and volume electric field integral equation-based H-Matrix. The proposed solution method converges in a fixed number of iterations and is solved at each level of the H-Matrix computation. The solution method avoids the computation of a full matrix, as it can be solved independently at each level, starting from the leaf level. Solution at each level can be used as the final solution, thus saving the matrix computation time for full H-Matrix. The paper shows that the leaf level matrix computation and solution with power series gives as accurate results as the full H-Matrix iterative solver method. The method results in considerable savings time and memory savings compared to the H-Matrix iterative solver. Further, the proposed method retains the O(NlogN) solution complexity.
A Case of Remote Cerebellar Hemorrhage in Spinal Surgery without Dural Injury: Case Report
Authors: Sato Shinsuke , Hayashi Hiroshi , Urayama Daiki , Ito Yusuke , Naganuma Hidetoshi , Shinbori Hiroshi
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Remote cerebellar hemorrhage (RCH) has been reported as a serious complication of spine surgery and is considered to be caused by dural injury. However, we have experienced a case in which intracranial hemorrhage occurred immediately after lumbar spine surgery without dural tear. There were no reports of RCH in spinal surgery without dural injury as far as we could find. Case Report: We described a rare presentation of an 80-year-old male who suffered a loss of consciousness after lumbar surgery. He was diagnosed with impaired consciousness due to chronic and acute intracranial hemorrhage. He went through two hematoma removal surgeries and his consciousness improved. Conclusion: RCH can occur in spinal surgery in patients with predicted cerebrovascular fragility, even in the absence of dural injury. Pre-operative imaging evaluation could be useful in assessing cerebrovascular fragility. Keywords: Remote cerebellar hemorrhage, dural injury, spine surgery.
Iliofemoral Arthrodesis as a Reconstructive Surgical Technique in the Management of Malignant Periacetabular Tumors: Case Series
Authors: Kuppan Naveenkumar , Saravanakumar TP , Muthu Sathish
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Reconstructive options for surgical malignant of periacetabular tumors include endoprosthetic reconstructions, biologic reconstruction, hip transposition, hip rotationplasty, and iliofemoral arthrodesis. In this case series, we discuss the outcome of iliofemoral arthrodesis as a reconstruction option in the management of malignant periacetabular tumors. Case Report: A 45-year-old woman with complaints of right hip pain for 4-year duration was evaluated to have a well-defined radiolucent osteolytic lesion with calcifications localized around the right acetabulum diagnosed to be chondrosarcoma later on. Another 44-year-old woman with complaints of left hip pain for 2-year duration was evaluated to have fibrosarcoma of left gluteus maximus, piriformis, and gemelli extending to quadratus femoris. Wide resection was planned for both patients, and iliofemoral arthrodesis was performed. Both patients did not receive any adjuvant treatment. Both the patients demonstrated good functional outcomes at 2-years follow-up without any recurrence or distant metastasis. Conclusion: Iliofemoral arthrodesis serves as a cost-effective reconstructive option in the management of malignant periacetabular tumors. Meticulous dissection and wide resection remain key to preventing recurrence or complications. Keywords: Malignant tumor, arthrodesis, acetabulum, fibrosarcoma, chondrosarcoma.
Arthroscopic Salvage Procedure for Iatrogenic Conjoint Tendon Avulsion Fracture Following Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure Using Double Sling Fixation Technique – A Case Report
Authors: Nair Ayyappan V , Mohan Pramod Kumar , Jangale Ajit , Krishna Pavan , Goud Naresh
Published: September 2023

Introduction: We present a case report of an iatrogenic conjoint tendon avulsion fracture following arthroscopic Latarjet and salvage technique to address the complication with a novel double sling technique. Case Report: A 16-year-old male patient who presented with recurrent instability of the right shoulder was counseled for an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure, taking account of critical glenoid bone loss and his contact sporting activities. An intraoperative coracoid tip fracture occurred, which was managed with the double sling technique. At 1-year follow-up, the patient has made a good recovery with a full range of movements and a stable shoulder; the CT scans showed a well-approximated coracoid tip fragment. Conclusion: Iatrogenic intraoperative coracoid graft fractures during arthroscopic Latarjet can be managed depending on the site of the fracture and quality of the bone. The double sling fixation technique helps in maintaining the sling action of the conjoint tendon in patients with recurrent instability. Keywords: Latarjet, Coracoid graft fracture, Arthroscopy, Shoulder surgery, Instability, Graft salvage.
Use of Nanotechnology as an Alternative to Opioids for Post-operative Pain Management Following TKA
Authors: Chelly Jacques E , Plakseychuk Anton , Schott Nicholas
Published: September 2023

Introduction: In response to the current opioid crisis, there is a great interest to develop non-pharmacologic approaches to post-operative pain management for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Case Report: We report a case of a patient whose post-operative pain following TKA was managed using the newly designed NeuroCuple™ device, a patch based on the use of nanotechnology. The NeuroCuple™ device was placed above the knee by the patient at home. The use of the NeuroCuple™ device allowed the patient completely avoid the use of any opioids at home. Conclusion: Our report suggests that the use of the NeuroCuple™ device may represent an interesting alternative to opioids for the peri-operative management of pain following a primary, unilateral TKA. Keywords: Primary knee arthroplasty, peri-operative pain management, nanotechnology.
Increased Risk of Surgical Field Contamination from Acute Pre-operative Treatment of Pediculosis Capitis (Lice) Infestation – A Case Report of Two Twin Pediatric Patients
Authors: Rice Richard Casey , Schick Samuel , Ruckle David , Jesurajan Jose , Gulbrandsen Matthew T , Roiz Ronald
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Little is known about the perioperative management of Pediculus capitis (lice) infestations, including risk of contamination to the sterile field, whether to delay surgery, and optimal time to treat and/or operate. Case Report: Two identical twin patients presented for elective in situ percutaneous pinning of chronic slipped capital femoral epiphyses. Active pediculosis capitis was noted intraoperatively by the anesthesia team during the first patient’s surgery. Meticulous examination of the sterile field at that time demonstrated no organisms or other sources of contamination. The second patient’s surgery was delayed to discuss her case with the infectious disease team. Scant literature exists to guide recommendations. Ultimately, a single permethrin treatment immediately before surgery was recommended and followed by our team. After careful prepping and draping, a louse was observed on the sterile field near the planned pin insertion site. The case was immediately canceled and delayed indefinitely. After two additional treatments over the next 4 days, only eggs (but no active insects) were observed in the patient’s hair. We elected to proceed to surgery at that time, which concluded without issue. Conclusion: The surgical implications of an active lice infestation are numerous. Administration of antiparasitic medication in the immediate pre-operative period causes increased movement in pediculosis capitis, which may increase risk of sterile field contamination. Elective procedures should be postponed to complete multiple rounds of permethrin. In cases of urgent/emergent surgery, or in which treatment delay is unfeasible, foregoing delousing treatment in the immediate pre-operative period may be recommended. Keywords: Lice, surgery, permethrin, pediculosis, orthopedics
Combined Lateral Plateau and PCL Injury in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Booth Michael , McDonough Barry , Tager David , Niemann Michael , Vaida Justin
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries and tibial plateau fractures are common orthopedic injuries. In the pediatric population, femoral-sided avulsions are the most common injury pattern for PCL injuries. However, there is limited literature on the characterization and treatment of pediatric PCL avulsion with concomitant tibial plateau fracture. Case Report: We present the case of an adolescent female who was involved in an all-terrain vehicle rollover. The patient sustained a femoral-sided PCL avulsion injury with an associated lateral tibial plateau fracture. The PCL avulsion was treated through arthroscopic cruciate repair, while the tibial plateau fracture was managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Conclusion: This case report highlights a rare combination of a femoral-sided PCL avulsion and lateral tibial plateau fracture in a pediatric patient. The treatment involved arthroscopic cruciate repair for the PCL avulsion and ORIF for the tibial plateau fracture. Further studies are needed to establish optimal management strategies for similar cases. Keywords: Posterior cruciate ligament, PCL avulsion, tibial plateau fracture, pediatric, arthroscopic cruciate repair, open reduction and internal fixation.