bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing educational and vocational recovery in adolescents and young adults with early psychosis through Supported Employment and Education (SEEearly): study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jäckel D. , Willert A. , Brose A. , Leopold K. , Nischk D. , Senner S. , Pogarell O. , Sachenbacher S. , Lambert M. , Rohenkohl A. , Kling-Lourenco P. , Rüsch N. , Bermpohl F. , Schouler-Ocak M. , Disselhoff V. , Skorupa U. , Bechdolf A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Psychotic disorders often develop a chronic course with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and societies. Early intervention programs for people in the first 5 years after the initial psychotic episode (early psychosis) can significantly improve the outcome and are therefore strongly recommended in national and international guidelines. However, most early intervention programs still focus on improving symptoms and relapse prevention, rather than targeting educational and vocational recovery. The aim of the present study is to explore the effects of Supported Employment and Education (SEE) following the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model in people with early psychosis.

Methods

The SEEearly trial compares treatment as usual (TAU) plus SEE to TAU alone in outpatient psychiatric settings. The study is a six-site, two-arm, single-blinded, superiority randomized controlled trial (RCT). Participants are randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention or control group. Aiming to recruit 184 participants, with an assumed drop-out rate of 22%, we will be able to detect a 24% difference in the main outcome of employment/education with 90% power. We make assessments at baseline and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Outcome data on employment/education, medication, and current psychiatric treatment is obtained monthly through phone based short assessments. The primary outcome is steady participation for at least 50% of the 12-month follow-up in competitive employment and/or mainstream education. Secondary employment outcomes capture length of employment/education, time to first employment/education, monthly wages/educational attainment, and social return on investment (SROI). Secondary non-employment outcomes include subjective quality of life, psychopathology, substance use, relapse, hospitalization, and functional impairment. To be eligible, participants must be between 16 and 35 years, fulfill diagnostic criteria for early psychosis, and be interested in competitive employment and/or mainstream education.

Discussion

In SEEearly, we hypothesize that participants with psychosis, who receive TAU plus SEE, present with better primary and secondary outcomes than participants, who receive TAU alone. Positive results of this study will justify SEE as an evidence-based strategy for clinical routine treatment in people with early psychosis.

Trial registration

SEEearly was registered nationally and internationally in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS; identifier: DRKS00029660) on October 14, 2022.
Enhancing diagnosis and treatment of superior cluneal nerve entrapment: cadaveric, clinical, and ultrasonographic insights
Authors: Wu Wei-Ting , Mezian Kamal , Naňka Ondřej , Chen Lan-Rong , Ricci Vincenzo , Lin Chih-Peng , Chang Ke-Vin , Özçakar Levent
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Low back pain is a prevalent public health issue caused by superior cluneal nerve (SCN) entrapment. This study aimed to explore the course of SCN branches, cross-sectional area (CSA) of the nerves, and effects of ultrasound-guided SCN hydrodissection.

Methods

SCN distance relative to the posterior superior iliac spines was measured and compared with ultrasound findings in asymptomatic volunteers. The CSA of the SCN, pressure-pain threshold, and pain measurements were obtained from asymptomatic controls and patients with SCN entrapment at various time points after hydrodissection (with 1 mL of 50% dextrose, 4 mL of 1% lidocaine, and 5 mL of 1% normal saline) in the short-axis view.

Results

Twenty sides of 10 formalin-fixed cadavers were dissected. The SCN locations on the iliac crest did not differ from the ultrasound findings in 30 asymptomatic volunteers. The average CSA of the SCN across different branches and sites ranged between 4.69–5.67 mm2 and did not vary across different segments/branches or pain statuses. Initial treatment success was observed in 77.7% (n = 28) of 36 patients receiving hydrodissection due to SCN entrapment. A group with initial treatment success experienced symptom recurrence in 25% (n = 7) of cases, and those with recurrent pain had a higher prevalence of scoliosis than those without symptom recurrence.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography effectively localizes SCN branches on the iliac crest, whereby increased nerve CSA is not useful for diagnosis. Most patients benefit from ultrasound-guided dextrose hydrodissection; however, those with scoliosis may experience symptom recurrence and whether structured rehabilitation can reduce recurrence post-injection should be considered as one perspective in future research.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04478344). Registered on 20 July 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04478344?cond=Superior+Cluneal+Nerve&cntry=TW&draw=2&rank=1.

Critical relevance statement Ultrasound imaging accurately locates SCN branches on the iliac crest, while enlargement of the CSA is not useful in diagnosing SCN entrapment; however, approximately 80% of SCN entrapment cases respond positively to ultrasound-guided dextrose hydrodissection.

Graphical abstract
A systematic review and meta-analysis of CT and MRI radiomics in ovarian cancer: methodological issues and clinical utility
Authors: Huang Meng-Lin , Ren Jing , Jin Zheng-Yu , Liu Xin-Yu , He Yong-Lan , Li Yuan , Xue Hua-Dan
Published: July 2023

Objectives

We aimed to present the state of the art of CT- and MRI-based radiomics in the context of ovarian cancer (OC), with a focus on the methodological quality of these studies and the clinical utility of these proposed radiomics models.

Methods

Original articles investigating radiomics in OC published in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library between January 1, 2002, and January 6, 2023, were extracted. The methodological quality was evaluated using the radiomics quality score (RQS) and Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2). Pairwise correlation analyses were performed to compare the methodological quality, baseline information, and performance metrics. Additional meta-analyses of studies exploring differential diagnoses and prognostic prediction in patients with OC were performed separately.

Results

Fifty-seven studies encompassing 11,693 patients were included. The mean RQS was 30.7% (range − 4 to 22); less than 25% of studies had a high risk of bias and applicability concerns in each domain of QUADAS-2. A high RQS was significantly associated with a low QUADAS-2 risk and recent publication year. Significantly higher performance metrics were observed in studies examining differential diagnosis; 16 such studies as well as 13 exploring prognostic prediction were included in a separate meta-analysis, which revealed diagnostic odds ratios of 25.76 (95% confidence interval (CI) 13.50–49.13) and 12.55 (95% CI 8.38–18.77), respectively.

Conclusion

Current evidence suggests that the methodological quality of OC-related radiomics studies is unsatisfactory. Radiomics analysis based on CT and MRI showed promising results in terms of differential diagnosis and prognostic prediction.

Critical relevance statement

Radiomics analysis has potential clinical utility; however, shortcomings persist in existing studies in terms of reproducibility. We suggest that future radiomics studies should be more standardized to better bridge the gap between concepts and clinical applications.

Graphical abstract
Post-cardiac injury syndrome due to iatrogenic injury successfully managed medically: a case report
Authors: Faraj Raid , Dib Hassan , Abdelali Mehdi , Zarzur Jamila , Cherti Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Background

Coronary artery perforation is a rare but serious complication of percutaneous coronary interventions, that may eventually lead to major and fatal events such as myocardial infarction, cardiac tamponade, and ultimately death. The risk of coronary artery perforation is more significant during complex procedures as chronic total occlusions but it can occur in other circumstances such as oversized stents and/or balloons, excessive post-dilatation, and the use of hydrophilic wires. Coronary artery perforation is often not recognized during the procedure and the diagnosis is frequently not made until later when the patient develops signs related to pericardial effusion. Thus, causing a delay in management and worsening the prognosis.

Case presentation

We report a case of a distal coronary artery perforation secondary to using a hydrophilic guide in a young male patient of 52-year-old arab, initially presented with an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, complicated by pericardial effusion that was treated medically with a favorable outcome.

Conclusions

This work highlights that coronary artery perforation is a complication that must be anticipated in high-risk situations and its diagnosis must be made early to allow adequate management.
Sick and depressed? The causal impact of a diabetes diagnosis on depression
Authors: Gaggero Alessio , Gil Joan , Jiménez-Rubio Dolores , Zucchelli Eugenio
Published: July 2023

Background

There is sparse evidence on the impact of health information on mental health as well as on the mechanisms governing this relationship. We estimate the causal impact of health information on mental health via the effect of a diabetes diagnosis on depression.

Methods

We employ a fuzzy regression discontinuity design (RDD) exploiting the exogenous cut-off value of a biomarker used to diagnose type-2 diabetes (glycated haemoglobin, HbA1c) and information on psycometrically validated measures of diagnosed clinical depression drawn from rich administrative longitudinal individual-level data from a large municipality in Spain. This approach allows estimating the causal impact of a type-2 diabetes diagnosis on clinica ldepression.

Results

We find that overall a type-2 diabetes diagnosis increases the probability of becoming depressed, however this effect appears to be driven mostly by women, and in particular those who are relatively younger and obese. Results also appear to differ by changes in lifestyle induced by the diabetes diagnosis: while women who did not lose weight are more likely to develop depression, men who did lose weight present a reduced probability of being depressed. Results are robust to alternative parametric and non-parametric specifications and placebo tests.

Conclusions

The study provides novel empirical evidence on the causal impact of health information on mental health, shedding light on gender-based differences in such effects and potential mechanisms through changes in lifestyle behaviours.
Patient journey for hypertension and dyslipidemia in Saudi Arabia: highlighting the evidence gaps
Authors: Amir Ashraf , Alasnag Mirvat , Al-Raddadi Rajaa , Al-Bassam Tawfik , Saeed Kanwal , Yazıcıoğlu Mehmet , Shabana Ayman
Published: July 2023

Background

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed staggering rates of hypertension and dyslipidemia-related cardiovascular (CV) deaths, overburdening the healthcare ecosystem of the country. Appropriate public health interventions can be devised through quantitative mapping of evidence. Identification of potential data gaps can prioritize future research needs and develop a ‘best-fit’ framework for patient-centric management of hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Methods

This review quantified data gaps in the prevalence and key epidemiological touchpoints of the patient journey including awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment, adherence, and control in patients with hypertension and dyslipidemia in Saudi Arabia. Studies published in English between January 2010 and December 2021 were identified through a structured search on MEDLINE, Embase, BIOSIS, and PubMed databases. An unstructured search on public and government websites, including Saudi Ministry of Health, without date limits was carried out to fill data gaps. After exclusion of studies based on predefined criteria, a total of 14 studies on hypertension and 12 studies and one anecdotal evidence for dyslipidemia were included in the final analyses.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension was reported to be 14.0%–41.8% while that for dyslipidemia was 12.5%–62.0%. The screening rate for hypertension was 100.0% as revealed by the nationwide surveys. Among hypertensive patients, only 27.6%–61.1% patients were aware of their condition, 42.2% patients underwent diagnosis, 27.9%–78.9% patients received antihypertensive treatment, 22.5% patients adhered to treatment medication, while blood pressure (BP) control was achieved in 27.0%–45.0% patients. Likewise, among patients with dyslipidemia, 10.5%–47.3% patients were aware of their condition, 34.6% patients were screened, and 17.8% underwent diagnosis. Although high treatment rates ranging from 40.0%–94.0% were reported, medication adherence recorded was 45.0%–77.4% among the treated patients. The overall low control rates ranged from 28.0%–41.5%.

Conclusions

The study findings highlight evidence gaps along key touchpoints of patient journey. Reinforcing the efforts for high-quality evidence-based research at a national level may pave a path for better resource utilization and provide guidance to practice and amend health policies for patients, healthcare practitioners (HCPs), and healthcare policy makers for better patient outcomes in Saudi Arabia.
Enzymatically prepared alginate oligosaccharides improve broiler chicken growth performance by modulating the gut microbiota and growth hormone signals
Authors: Zhu La A La Teng , Feng Yuqing , Hu Die , Feng Yimei , Jin Xiaolu , Liu Dan , Guo Yuming , Cheng Gong , Hu Yongfei
Published: July 2023

Background

Alginate oligosaccharide (AOS) holds great potential as a novel feed supplement in farm animals. However, the effects of AOS on chicken health and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aimed to optimize the enzymatic preparation of AOS by using bacterial alginate lyases expressed in yeast, investigate the effects of the prepared AOS on the growth performance and gut health of broiler chickens, and reveal the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Five alginate lyases from bacteria were cloned into Pichia pastoris GS115 and the alginate lyase PDE9 was expressed at relatively high yield, activity and stability in P. pastoris. Animal trials were carried out using 320 1-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers (four groups; 8 replicates/group × 10 chicks/replicate) receiving either a basal diet or the same diet supplemented with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg PDE9-prepared AOS for 42 d. The results showed that dietary supplementation of 200 mg/kg AOS displayed the highest activity in promoting the birds’ ADG and ADFI (P < 0.05). AOS ameliorated the intestinal morphology, absorption function and barrier function, as indicated by the enhanced (P < 0.05) intestinal villus height, maltase activity, and the expression of PEPT, SGLT1, ZNT1, and occludin. AOS also increased serum insulin-like growth factor-1, ghrelin (P < 0.05), and growth hormone (P < 0.1). Moreover, the concentrations of acetate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, valerate, and total SCFAs in cecum of birds fed AOS were significantly higher than the control birds (P < 0.05). Metagenomic analysis indicated that AOS modulated the chicken gut microbiota structure, function, and microbial interactions and promoted the growth of SCFAs-producing bacteria, for example, Dorea sp. 002160985; SCFAs, especially acetate, were found positively correlated with the chicken growth performance and growth-related hormone signals (P < 0.05). We further verified that AOS can be utilized by Dorea sp. to grow and to produce acetate in vitro.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the enzymatically produced AOS effectively promoted broiler chicken growth performance by modulating the chicken gut microbiota structure and function. For the first time, we established the connections among AOS, chicken gut microbiota/SCFAs, growth hormone signals and chicken growth performance.

Graphical Abstract
“Dear Doctor, greetings of the day!”: A 1-year observational study of presumed predatory journal invitations
Authors: Livas Christos , Delli Konstantina
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed at investigating the predatory publishing phenomenon in orthodontics by analyzing the content of unsolicited e-mail invitations received within 12 months.

Methods

All electronic invitations for manuscript submission, review and editorial membership received between 1 October 2021 and 30 September 2022 were collected from an orthodontist’s inbox. The following data were recorded for each e-mail: date, journal title and origin, requested contribution, e-mail language, relevance to the researcher’s discipline, journal characteristics (claimed metrics, editorial services, article types accepted, and publication fees), journal/publisher contact information and online presence. Journal/Publisher legitimacy and publishing standards were evaluated by listing in the Beall’s list of potential predatory journals and publishers, the Predatory Reports of Cabell’s Scholarly Analytics, and the Directory of Open Access Journals.

Results

A total of 875 e-mail invitations deriving from 256 journals were retrieved within the observation period, with most of them soliciting article submissions. More than 76% of the solicitations originated from journals and publishers included in the blocklists used in the study. Salient features of predatory journals like flattering language, abundant grammatical errors, unclear publication charges and wide variety of article types and topics accepted for publication were confirmed for the examined journals/publishers.

Conclusions

Nearly 8 out of 10 unsolicited e-mail invitations sent to orthodontists for scholarly contribution may be related to journals suspicious for publishing malpractices and suboptimal standards. Excessive flattering language, grammatical errors, broad range of submissions, and incomplete journal contact information were commonly encountered findings. Researchers in orthodontics should be alert to the unethical policies of illegitimate journals and their harmful consequences on the scientific literature.
Impact of standardization on racial and socioeconomic disparities in non-accidental trauma evaluations in infants in a pediatric emergency department
Authors: Elliott Laura Even , Gittelman Michael A. , Kurowski Eileen M. , Duma Elena M. , Pomerantz Wendy J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Studies have illustrated racial and socioeconomic disparities in evaluation of non-accidental trauma (NAT). We aimed to investigate how implementation of a standardized NAT guideline in a pediatric emergency department (PED) impacted racial and socioeconomic disparities in NAT evaluation.

Results

1199 patients (541 pre- and 658 post-guideline) were included for analysis. Pre-guideline, patients with governmental insurance were more likely than those with commercial insurance to have a social work (SW) consult completed (57.4% vs. 34.7%, p < 0.001) and a Child Protective Services (CPS) report filed (33.4% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.001). Post-guideline, these disparities were still present. There were no differences in race, ethnicity, insurance type, or social deprivation index (SDI) in rates of complete NAT evaluations pre- or post-guideline implementation. Overall adherence to all guideline elements increased from 19.0% before guideline implementation to 53.2% after (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Implementation of a standardized NAT guideline led to significant increase in complete NAT evaluations. Guideline implementation was not associated with elimination of pre-existing disparities in SW consults or CPS reporting between insurance groups.
Safe at home: prevention of pediatric unintentional injuries
Authors: Burch Coleman , Webb Alicia , Jorge Eric , King Bill , Nichols Michele , Monroe Kathy
Published: July 2023

Background

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death in children in the United States. Studies have shown that parent adherence to safety guidelines is improved when education is provided in conjunction with safety equipment.

Methods

This study surveyed parents about specific injury prevention behaviors regarding medication and firearm storage and provided education and safety equipment for safe practice of these behaviors. The project took place in a pediatric emergency department (PED) and partnered with the hospital foundation and the school of medicine. Inclusion criteria were families visiting a freestanding PED in a tertiary care center. Participants completed a survey conducted by a medical student approximately 5 min in length. The student then provided each family with a medication lock box (if children ≤ 5 years old lived in the home), firearm cable lock, and education for safe storage of medications and firearms in the home.

Results

The medical student researcher spent a total of 20 h in the PED from June to August 2021. 106 families were approached to participate in the study, of which 99 agreed to participate (93.4%). A total of 199 children were reached with ages ranging from less than 1 year old to 18 years old. A total of 73 medication lockboxes and 95 firearm locks were distributed. The majority (79.8%) of survey participants were the mother of the patient and 97.0% of participants lived with the patient > 50% of the time. For medication storage, 12.1% of families store medications locked and 71.7% reported never receiving medication storage education from a healthcare professional. Regarding firearms, 65.2% of participants who reported having at least 1 firearm in the home stored firearms locked and unloaded with various methods of storage. 77.8% of firearm owners reported storing ammunition in a separate location from the firearm. Of all participants surveyed, 82.8% reported never receiving firearm storage education from a healthcare professional.

Conclusions

The pediatric ED is an excellent setting for injury prevention and education. Many families are not storing medications and firearms safely, demonstrating a clear opportunity to increase knowledge in families with young children.
Bifurcate evolution of quinone synthetases in basidiomycetes
Authors: Seibold Paula Sophie , Lawrinowitz Stefanie , Raztsou Ihar , Gressler Markus , Arndt Hans-Dieter , Stallforth Pierre , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: July 2023

Background

The terphenylquinones represent an ecologically remarkable class of basidiomycete natural products as they serve as central precursors of pigments and compounds that impact on microbial consortia by modulating bacterial biofilms and motility. This study addressed the phylogenetic origin of the quinone synthetases that assemble the key terphenylquinones polyporic acid and atromentin.

Results

The activity of the Hapalopilus rutilans synthetases HapA1, HapA2 and of Psilocybe cubensis PpaA1 were reconstituted in Aspergilli. Liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry of the culture extracts identified all three enzymes as polyporic acid synthetases. PpaA1 is unique in that it features a C-terminal, yet catalytically inactive dioxygenase domain. Combined with bioinformatics to reconstruct the phylogeny, our results demonstrate that basidiomycete polyporic acid and atromentin synthetases evolved independently, although they share an identical catalytic mechanism and release structurally very closely related products. A targeted amino acid replacement in the substrate binding pocket of the adenylation domains resulted in bifunctional synthetases producing both polyporic acid and atromentin.

Conclusions

Our results imply that quinone synthetases evolved twice independently in basidiomycetes, depending on the aromatic α-keto acid substrate. Furthermore, key amino acid residues for substrate specificity were identified and changed which led to a relaxed substrate profile. Therefore, our work lays the foundation for future targeted enzyme engineering.
Commentary: Advocating for patient and public involvement and engagement in health economic evaluation
Authors: Staniszewska Sophie , Jakab Ivett , Low Eric , Mossman Jean , Posner Phil , Husereau Don , Stephens Richard , Drummond Michael
Published: July 2023

Background

Patient and public involvement in health economic evaluation is still relatively rare, compared to other areas of health and social care research. Developing stronger patient and public involvement in health economic evaluation will be important in the future because such evaluations can impact on the treatments and interventions that patients can access in routine care.

Main text

The Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) is a reporting guideline for authors publishing health economic evaluations. We established an international group of public contributors who were involved in the update of the CHEERS 2022 reporting guidance, ensuring two items (areas of reporting) specifically about public involvement were included. In this commentary we focus on the development of a guide to support public involvement in reporting, a key suggestion made by the CHEERS 2022 Public Reference Group, who advocated for greater public involvement in health economic evaluation. This need for this guide was identified during the development of CHEERS 2022 when it became apparent that the language of health economic evaluation is complex and not always accessible, creating challenges for meaningful public involvement in key deliberation and discussion. We took the first step to more meaningful dialogue by creating a guide that patient organisations could use to support their members to become more involved in discussions about health economic evaluations.

Conclusions

CHEERS 2022 provides a new direction for health economic evaluation, encouraging researchers to undertake and report their public involvement to build the evidence base for practice and may provide some reassurance to the public that their voice has played a part in evidence development. The CHEERS 2022 guide for patient representatives and patient organisations aims to support that endeavour by enabling deliberative discussions among patient organisations and their members. We recognise it is only a first step and further discussion is needed about the best ways to involve public contributors in health economic evaluation.
In vitro ethno-toxicology of Hunteria umbellata methanol seed and stem extracts against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and its molecular implication on swarming and adhesion genes
Authors: Salisu Titilola Fausat , Yahaya Tajudeen Olanrewaju , Fowora Muinah Adenike , Fagbayi Tawakalt Ajoke , Bolarinwa Kehinde Abiola , Owagboriaye Folarin Ojo , Onajobi Ismail Babatunde , Ademola Latifat Aderonke
Published: July 2023

Background

Hunteria umbellatta (HU) is a predominant plant with a share of therapeutic properties against various human diseases with no scientific report of its in vitro ethno-toxicology coupled with molecular implication in the literature. This study, therefore, evaluated in vitro toxicological activity and quantification of expression of specific swarming gene, lateral flagellar (Laf A) and adhesion gene (ExsE) of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) treated with methanol seed and stem extracts of HU at 500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, 15.625, 7.8125, 3.90625 µg/µL concentrations.

Results

The toxicological results of all the eight tested concentrations from as low as 3.90625 µg/µL to as high as 500 µg/µL of HU seed and stem extracts revealed significantly (p ˂ 0.05) uninhibited bacterial growth in a dose-dependent manner compared to controls (positive and negative). The quantity of Laf A and ExsE genes’ expressions in VP was significantly higher (p ˂ 0.05) at 500 µg/µL of HU seed and stem compared to control while at 125 µg/µL of the same extract (seed and stem) showed significantly lowered (p ˂ 0.05) expression of swarming and adhesion genes in VP relative to control. Comparative to control, adhesion gene (ExsE) expression in VP significantly increased (p ˂ 0.05) at 250 µg/µL of HU seed and stem extracts.

Conclusions

The results obtained suggest toxicity at varying concentrations and higher concentration dosing of HU seed and stem is harmful as it could lead to increased expression of the gene colonization factor of VP as a major contributory agent of gastroenteritis.
Optimization of aero-engine combustion chambers with the assistance of Hierarchical-Kriging surrogate model based on POD downscaling method
Authors: Tong Shuhong , Ma Yue , Guo Mingming , Tian Ye , Song Wenyan , Wang Heng , Le Jialing , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2023

In view of the long calculation cycle, high processing test and cost of the traditional aero-engine combustion chamber design process, which restricts the engine optimization design cycle, this paper innovatively proposes a surrogate model for the performance of aero-engine combustion chambers based on the POD-Hierarchical-Kriging method. Through experiments, the predicted results of the POD-Hierarchical-Kriging model are compared and analyzed with the calculated results of the one-dimensional program, and the root mean square error of the predicted values of combustion efficiency and total pressure loss is 0.0064% and 0.1995%, respectively. The accuracy of the POD-Hierarchical-Kriging model is compared with the cubic polynomial model, the basic Kriging model and the Hierarchical-Kriging model. It verifies the feasibility and accuracy of the POD-Hierarchical-Kriging model for the prediction of performance of aero-engine combustion chambers. The global sensitivity analysis method is applied to obtain the influence effect of design variables on the performance. Then, a multi-objective optimization method based on the NSGA-II algorithm is studied, and finally the optimal set of Pareto solutions is obtained and analyzed, which can be used to guide the optimal design of aero-engine combustion chambers and accelerate the progress of aero-engine development.
Enough is enough: salvage procedures in severe periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Gramlich Yves , Parvizi Javad
Published: July 2023

Background

In severe cases of periprosthetic joint infection involving negative host-dependent factors, individual-based decisions between a curative therapy vs. salvage procedure are necessary. We aimed to review salvage procedures in severe periprosthetic joint infection cases, where a gold standard of a curative two-stage exchange can no longer be achieved. The options of knee arthrodesis, amputation, persistent fistula (stable drainage), or a debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention procedure in late-onset cases are discussed, including lifelong antibiotic suppression alone.

Methods

We focused on known salvage procedures for severe periprosthetic joint infection of the hip and knee, such as amputation, arthrodesis, antibiotic suppression, persistent fistula, and debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention in late-stage infections, and the role of local antibiotics. The current literature regarding indications and outcomes was reviewed.

Results

Whereas a successful single-stage above-knee amputation can be a curative effort in younger patients, this is associated with limited outcome in older patients, as the proportion who receive an exoprosthesis leading to independent mobility is low. Therefore, arthrodesis using an intramedullary modular nail is an option for limb salvage, pain reduction, and preservation of quality of life and everyday life mobility, when revision total knee arthroplasty is not an option. Carrying out a persistent fistula using a stable drainage system, as well as a lifelong antibiotic suppression therapy, can be an option, in cases where no other surgery is possible. Active clinical surveillance should then be carried out. A debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention procedure in combination with local degradable antibiotics can be used and is an encouraging new option, but should not been carried out twice.

Conclusion

Whereas the gold standard in periprosthetic joint infection treatment of late infections remains the exchange of the prosthesis, salvage procedures should be considered in the cases of reduced life expectancy, several recurrences of the infection, patients having preference and negative host factors. In these cases, the appropriate salvage procedure can temporarily lead to remission of the infection and the possibility to maintain mobility.
Ondansetron-induced QT prolongation among various age groups: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Singh Kamaldeep , Jain Arpit , Panchal Ishita , Madan Hritik , Gupta Anubhav , Sharma Aakanksha , Gupta Surabhi , Kostojchin Anastas , Singh Anmol , Sandhu Ishanjit Singh , Mittal Jayesh , Bhogal Loveleen , Kolli Shiny Teja , Bejugam Vishal Reddy , Chaturvedi Salil , Bhalla Akhil , Piplani Shobhit
Published: July 2023

Background

Ondansetron is a selective 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 serotonin-receptor antagonist with antiemetic properties used inadvertently in the emergency department for controlling nausea. However, ondansetron is linked with a number of adverse effects, including prolongation of the QT interval. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the occurrence of QT prolongation in pediatric, adult, and elderly patients receiving oral or intravenously administered ondansetron.

Methods

A thorough electronic search was conducted on PubMed (Medline) and Cochrane Library from the databases' inception to August 10, 2022. Only those studies were considered in which ondansetron was administered orally or intravenously to participants for the treatment of nausea and vomiting. The prevalence of QT prolongation in multiple predefined age groups was the outcome variable. Analyses were conducted using Review manager 5.4 (Cochrane collaboration, 2020).

Results

A total of 10 studies involving 687 ondansetron group participants were statistically analyzed. The administration of ondansetron was associated with a statistically significant prevalence of QT prolongation in all age groups. An age-wise subgroup analysis was conducted which revealed that the prevalence of QT prolongation among participants younger than 18 years was not statistically significant, whereas it was statistically significant among participants aged 18–50 years and among patients older than 50 years.

Conclusions

The present meta-analysis provides further evidence that oral or intravenous administration of Ondansetron may lead to QT prolongation, particularly among patients older than 18 years of age.
Examining the impact of web-based mindfulness on undergraduate student’s quality of life: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ahmad Farah , El Morr Christo , Ritvo Paul ,   MVC Team, Abbas Sahir , Bohr Yvonne , Ferrari Manuela , Alan Fung Wai Lun , Hartley Louise , Mawani Amin , McKenzie Kwame , Odai Jan E.
Published: July 2023

Background

Evidence shows that mindfulness-based programs reduce levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Yet, web-based mindfulness has been less studied, especially among university students. We developed a student-centered web-based mindfulness virtual community (MVC) intervention informed by cognitive-behavioral-therapy constructs. MVC comprised of (1) 12 online video-based modules (psychoeducation and practice), (2) anonymous peer-to-peer discussion forums, and (3) anonymous, group-based, 20-min live video conferences by a trained moderator. While the intervention was found effective in reducing anxiety and depression in a randomized controlled trial (RCT), the impact on students’ quality of life remained to be examined. The reported study examined the impact of 8-week long web-based MVC intervention on the quality of life of undergraduate students compared to those in the control group. Participants were recruited from a large Canadian university into a two-arm RCT (N = 160) and randomly allocated to the web-based MVC intervention (n = 80) or to the control (n = 80) group. Participants completed online survey at baseline (T1) and at 8-week (T2). The outcome of quality of life was measured by 16-item Quality of Life Scale (QOLS). The generalized estimation equation (GEE) method with AR(1) covariance structures was used, adjusting for potential covariates.

Results

At the baseline 159 students completed the survey. Participants (32 males, 125 females, 2 other gender) had a mean age of 22.6 years, 57.2% were born in Canada. Participants in MVC (n = 79) and control (n = 80) groups were similar in sociodemographic characteristics except hours of volunteer work. At T2 that coincided with students’ exam period, QOLS score for the control group declined while MVC group had a slight increase. Between-group analysis for QOLS score-change showed a significantly higher score at T2 for MVC group compared to the control (81.64, SD = 14.63 vs. 72.9, SD = 17.26, P < 0.001). Per adjusted GEE analysis, the higher QOLS score in MVC compared to the control group was statistically significant ($$\upbeta$$
β
= -2.24, P = .03).

Conclusions

Web-based MVC intervention helped the students to have better quality of life, compared to the control group, at 8-week follow-up despite exam stress. Future research with a longer follow-up would advance understanding.

Trial registration

https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12249616 Registration Date: 21/06/2017.
Brain serotonin 1A receptor binding: relationship to peripheral blood DNA methylation, recent life stress and childhood adversity in unmedicated major depression
Authors: Galfalvy Hanga , Shea Eileen , de Vegvar Jacqueline , Pantazatos Spiro , Huang Yung-yu , Burke Ainsley K. , Sublette M. Elizabeth , Oquendo Maria A. , Zanderigo Francesca , Miller Jeffrey M. , Mann J. John
Published: July 2023

Background

Childhood and lifetime adversity may reduce brain serotonergic (5-HT) neurotransmission by epigenetic mechanisms.

Aims

We tested the relationships of childhood adversity and recent stress to serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) receptor genotype, DNA methylation of this gene in peripheral blood monocytes and in vivo 5-HT1A receptor binding potential (BPF) determined by positron emission tomography (PET) in 13 a priori brain regions, in participants with major depressive disorder (MDD) and healthy volunteers (controls).

Method

Medication-free participants with MDD (n = 192: 110 female, 81 male, 1 other) and controls (n = 88: 48 female, 40 male) were interviewed about childhood adversity and recent stressors and genotyped for rs6295. DNA methylation was assayed at three upstream promoter sites (−1019, −1007, −681) of the 5-HT1A receptor gene. A subgroup (n = 119) had regional brain 5-HT1A receptor BPF quantified by PET. Multi-predictor models were used to test associations between diagnosis, recent stress, childhood adversity, genotype, methylation and BPF.

Results

Recent stress correlated positively with blood monocyte methylation at the −681 CpG site, adjusted for diagnosis, and had positive and region-specific correlations with 5-HT1A BPF in participants with MDD, but not in controls. In participants with MDD, but not in controls, methylation at the −1007 CpG site had positive and region-specific correlations with binding potential. Childhood adversity was not associated with methylation or BPF in participants with MDD.

Conclusions

These findings support a model in which recent stress increases 5-HT1A receptor binding, via methylation of promoter sites, thus affecting MDD psychopathology.
A dataset of the visible light remote sensing images for offshore maritime targets in Sanduao from 2019 to 2021
Authors:   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS, GUO Xuyang ,   College of Computer and Information Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, CAO Shanshan ,   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS,   National Agriculture Science Data Center, MAN Rui ,   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS,   National Agriculture Science Data Center, ZENG Yiming ,   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS,   College of Computer and Information Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, WANG Yi ,   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS,   College of Computer and Information Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Kezierbieke Gulimila ,   College of Computer and Information Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, SUN Wei ,   Agricultural Information Institute of CAAS,   National Agriculture Science Data Center
Published: July 2023

The intelligent detection of offshore maritime targets using computer vision technology can provide a scientific basis for marine administrative management, marine environmental supervision and management as well as the formulation of marine environmental protection policies, providing a powerful environmental information reference for the steady development of the economy. The dataset includes the data collected from Sanduao Harbor in the southeast of Ningde City, Fujian Province, China, with Google Earth serving as the primary data source and a time span from 2019 to 2021. This dataset comprises 1,761 visible light remote sensing images acquired under different seasons, backgrounds and illumination conditions, and corresponding horizontal object detection labels, rotational object detection labels and semantic segmentation labels, covering three types of offshore maritime targets, namely ships, fish row cage culture areas, and raft culture areas. After screening and correction, it can meet the current mainstream deep learning model training needs. This dataset can provide basic data for the semantic segmentation, horizontal object detection, rotational object detection and other research fields of offshore maritime target images.
Acetaldehyde and defective mismatch repair increase colonic tumours in a Lynch syndrome model with Aldh1b1 inactivation
Authors: Cerretelli Guia , Zhou Ying , Müller Mike F. , Adams David J. , Arends Mark J.
Published: July 2023

ALDH1B1 expressed in the intestinal epithelium metabolises acetaldehyde to acetate, protecting against acetaldehyde-induced DNA damage. MSH2 is a key component of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) pathway involved in Lynch syndrome (LS)-associated colorectal cancers. Here, we show that defective MMR (dMMR) interacts with acetaldehyde, in a gene/environment interaction, enhancing dMMR-driven colonic tumour formation in a LS murine model of Msh2 conditional inactivation (Lgr5-CreER; Msh2flox/−, or Msh2-LS) combined with Aldh1b1 inactivation. Conditional (Aldh1b1flox/flox) or constitutive (Aldh1b1−/−) Aldh1b1 knockout alleles combined with the conditional Msh2flox/− intestinal knockout mouse model of LS (Msh2-LS) received either ethanol, which is metabolised to acetaldehyde, or water. We demonstrated that 41.7% of ethanol-treated Aldh1b1flox/flox Msh2-LS mice and 66.7% of Aldh1b1−/− Msh2-LS mice developed colonic epithelial hyperproliferation and adenoma formation, in 4.5 and 6 months, respectively, significantly greater than 0% in water-treated control mice. Significantly higher numbers of dMMR colonic crypt foci precursors and increased plasma acetaldehyde levels were observed in ethanol-treated Aldh1b1flox/flox Msh2-LS and Aldh1b1−/− Msh2-LS mice compared with those in water-treated controls. Hence, ALDH1B1 loss increases acetaldehyde levels and DNA damage that interacts with dMMR to accelerate colonic, but not small intestinal, tumour formation.
Comparing Methods for Targeted Axillary Dissection in Breast Cancer Patients: A Nationwide, Retrospective Study
Authors: Munck Frederikke , Jepsen Pernille , Zeuthen Pernille , Carstensen Lena , Hauerslev Katrine , Paaskesen Christian K. , Andersen Inge S. , Høyer Ute , Lanng Charlotte , Gerlach Maria K. , Vejborg Ilse , Kroman Niels T. , Tvedskov Tove H. F.
Published: July 2023

Background

Several techniques exist for performing targeted axillary dissection (TAD) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy with the removal of the sentinel node and a marked metastatic lymph node (LN). Two-step methods include coil-marking of the metastatic LN at diagnosis and re-marking with an intraoperatively identifiable marker before surgery. Because nondetection of the marked lymph node (MLN) warrants axillary clearance and many patients achieve axillary pathological complete response (ax-pCR), the success of TAD is crucial. We compare various two-step TAD methods in a Danish national cohort.

Methods

We included patients who received two-step TAD between January 1, 2016 and August 31, 2021. Patients were identified from the Danish Breast Cancer Group database and cross-checked with locally accessible lists. Data were extracted from the patient’s medical files.

Results

We included 543 patients. In 79.4%, preoperative, ultrasound-guided re-marking was possible. Nonidentification of the coil-marked LN was more likely in patients with ax-pCR. The second markers used were hook-wire, iodine seeds, or ink marking on the axillary skin. Of patients with successful secondary marking, the MLN identification rate (IR) was 91%, and the sentinel node (SN) IR was 95%. Marking with iodine seeds was significantly more successful than ink marking with an odds ratio of 5.34 (95% confidence interval 1.62-17.60). The success rate of the complete TAD with the removal of MLN and SN was 82.3%.

Conclusions

With two-step TAD, nonidentification of the coiled LN before surgery is frequent, especially in patients with ax-pCR. Despite successful remarking, the IR of the MLN at surgery is inferior to one-step TAD.
Interobserver variability studies in diagnostic imaging: a methodological systematic review
Authors: Quinn Laura , Tryposkiadis Konstantinos , Deeks Jon , De Vet Henrica C.W. , Mallett Sue , Mokkink Lidwine B. , Takwoingi Yemisi , Taylor-Phillips Sian , Sitch Alice
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

To review the methodology of interobserver variability studies; including current practice and quality of conducting and reporting studies.

Methods:

Interobserver variability studies between January 2019 and January 2020 were included; extracted data comprised of study characteristics, populations, variability measures, key results, and conclusions. Risk of bias was assessed using the COSMIN tool for assessing reliability and measurement error.

Results:

Seventy-nine full-text studies were included covering various imaging tests and clinical areas. The median number of patients was 47 (IQR:23–88), and observers were 4 (IQR:2–7), with sample size justified in 12 (15%) studies. Most studies used static images (n = 75, 95%), where all observers interpreted images for all patients (n = 67, 85%). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) (n = 41, 52%), Kappa (κ) statistics (n = 31, 39%) and percentage agreement (n = 15, 19%) were most commonly used. Interpretation of variability estimates often did not correspond with study conclusions. The COSMIN risk of bias tool gave a very good/adequate rating for 52 studies (66%) including any studies that used variability measures listed in the tool. For studies using static images, some study design standards were not applicable and did not contribute to the overall rating.

Conclusions:

Interobserver variability studies have diverse study designs and methods, the impact of which requires further evaluation. Sample size for patients and observers was often small without justification. Most studies report ICC and κ values, which did not always coincide with the study conclusion. High ratings were assigned to many studies using the COSMIN risk of bias tool, with certain standards scored ‘not applicable’ when static images were used.

Advances in knowledge:

The sample size for both patients and observers was often small without justification. For most studies, observers interpreted static images and did not evaluate the process of acquiring the imaging test, meaning it was not possible to assess many COSMIN risk of bias standards for studies with this design. Most studies reported intraclass correlation coefficient and κ statistics; study conclusions often did not correspond with results.