bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of genotypic susceptibility‐guided tailored therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection: A systematic review and single arm meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Kaihao , Huang Lifang , Wang Yadong , Li Kangkang , Ye Yuanning , Yang Siqi , Li Aimin
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

The prevalence of antibiotic resistance for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has been increasing over the year, making it more difficult for traditional empirical therapy to successfully eradicate H. pylori. Thus, tailored therapy (TT) guided by molecular‐based antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) has been frequently recommended. We conducted a single‐arm meta‐analysis to determine the efficacy of tailored therapy guided by molecular‐based AST.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed on multiple databases, and studies on molecular‐based TT were included. The eradication rates of TT by intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol (PP) analyses were pooled respectively.

Results

A total of 35 studies from 31 literature (4626 patients) were included in the single‐arm meta‐analysis. Overall, the pooled eradication rate of TT was 86.9% (95% CI:84.7%–89.1%) by the ITT analysis, and 91.5% (95% CI:89.8%–93.2%) by PP analysis. The pooled eradication rates of first‐line TT and rescue TT were 86.6% and 85.1% by ITT analysis and 92.0% and 87.9% by PP analysis, respectively. When tailored rescue therapy was based on the genotypic resistance to at least four antibiotics, the pooled eradication rates reached 89.4% by ITT analysis and 92.1% by PP analysis. For genotype‐susceptive strains, the pooled eradication rate of TT with targeted antibiotics was 93.1% (95% CI:91.3%–94.9%), among which the pooled eradication rate of tailored bismuth quadruple therapy was the highest (94.3%). Besides, the eradication rate of 7‐day TT or tailored triple therapy without bismuth for genotype‐susceptive strains could both reach more than 93.0%.

Conclusion

Tailored therapy guided by molecular‐based AST can achieve somewhat ideal therapeutic outcomes. TT with a 7‐day duration or without bismuth for genotype‐susceptible strains can achieve good eradication efficacy. The effectiveness of TT can be improved to some extent by expanding the coverage of AST or by adding bismuth.
Reversion of liver cirrhosis after endovascular treatment in Chinese patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Wang Chaoyang , Li Tongqiang , Chen Kequan , Niu Huanzhang , Bai Yaowei , Liu Jiacheng , Wang Yingliang , Ju Shuguang , Yao Wei , Zhao Guorui , Xiong Bin , Zhou Guofeng
Published: August 2023

Aims

To investigate the impact of endovascular (EV) treatment on liver cirrhosis in Chinese patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS).

Methods

From September 2011 to March 2022, 97 patients from four hospitals in China who were diagnosed with primary BCS complicated with liver cirrhosis and received EV treatment were retrospectively enrolled in this study for clinical analysis. In addition, liver tissues for basic research were acquired from 25 patients between June 2022 and March 2023, including six with benign liver tumors, 11 with BCS before EV treatment, and eight with EV‐treated BCS. Liver cirrhosis was assessed by clinical outcomes, histological studies, and the expression of related genes at the mRNA and protein levels.

Results

The patients with BCS had better liver function after EV treatment, evidenced by an increased albumin level and reduced total bilirubin, ALT, and AST. The imaging findings suggested an amelioration of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, including increased portal vein velocity (13.52 ± 8.89 cm/s vs. 17.51 ± 6.67 cm/s,p < 0.001) and decreased liver stiffness (30.37 ± 6.39 kPa vs. 23.70 ± 7.99 kPa,p < 0.001), portal vein diameter (14.97 ± 3.42 mm vs. 13.36 ± 2.89 mm,p < 0.001), and spleen volume (870.00 ± 355.61 cm3vs. 771.36 ± 277.45 cm3,p < 0.001). Furthermore, histological studies revealed that EV treatment resulted in a restoration of liver architecture with reduced extracellular matrix deposition. Meanwhile, hepatic angiogenesis and inflammation, which have a close relationship with cirrhosis, were also inhibited. In addition, the state of hepatocytes switches from apoptosis to proliferation after EV treatment.

Conclusions

BCS‐induced liver cirrhosis could be reversed by EV treatment from macroscopic to microscopic dimensions. Our study may provide further insights into understanding BCS and treating cirrhosis.
Analysis of YouTube videos as a source of information about dentin hypersensitivity
Authors: Saraç Atagün Özlem , Ceylan Şen Seval , Paksoy Tuğçe
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Even though tooth sensitivity is a prevalent dental issue today, more information is available to patients via social media concerning the subject. This study aimed to examine what patients may learn about tooth sensitivity from online videos on YouTube™ and evaluate the accuracy of the information given.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional investigation, two experienced periodontologists used the keyword ‘tooth sensitivity’ to conduct an organized search into YouTube videos containing knowledge regarding dentin hypersensitivity. Videos' type, origin, number of days since upload, duration, number of views, likes and dislikes, and comments were all noted; the viewing rate and interaction index were calculated. Videos were graded based on their content. The DISCERN and Global Quality Scales were used to rate each video's level of quality and reliability.

Results

After the initial 260 videos were examined, 199 were kept for additional study. Healthcare professionals, hospitals, and colleges posted the great majority of the videos. There was a significant positive relationship between the number of views and Total Content scores of the videos, the viewing rate, comments, and likes (p < 0.05). Significant relationships were obtained between total discernment, video type, source of upload, and global quality variables, and Total Content scores (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

When looking for information on dentin hypersensitivity, patients might find watchable, reliable, and helpful videos on YouTube™.
Dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria
Authors: Murthy Aravind B. , Palaniappan Vijayasankar , Karthikeyan Kaliaperumal , Anbarasan Varshini
Published: August 2023

Reticulate pigmentary dyschromatoses primarily include dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria (DUH), dyschromatosis symmetrica hereditaria (DSH) (Reticulate acropigmentation of Dohi), and unilateral dermatomal pigmentary dermatosis, which differ in their patterns of distribution. The disease was initially described by Ichikawa and Hiraga in Germany in 1933. The prevalence of DUH is 0.3 per 100,000 with a female preponderance. The skin lesions usually appear in infancy or early childhood and cease to progress beyond adolescence. The subtypes DUH 1 and DUH 3 are found to have autosomal dominant inheritance, which is the most common inheritance pattern, while DUH 2 has an autosomal recessive pattern. The most common gene involved in DUH is ABCB6, while the other genes include SASH 1, PER 3, and KITLG (DUH type 2). DUH is characterized by multiple irregular hyperpigmented macules interspersed with hypopigmented macules in a mottled pattern over the trunk and extremities. The face is involved in 50% of individuals. Rarely, it can also involve hairs, nails, mucous membranes, palms, and soles. Other varied presentations include localized forms, localization of lesions to sun‐exposed areas, large macules, uniform palmar hypopigmentation, diffuse hyperpigmentation with spotty depigmented macules, and unilateral involvement. DUH has been reported to be associated with various cutaneous and systemic diseases. The authors have observed cases of DUH associated with hepatocellular carcinoma, solitary keratoacanthoma, and dermoid cyst. The various diagnostic modalities include dermoscopy, histopathology, electron microscopy, and targeted gene sequencing. Though various treatment modalities like NBUVB and lasers have been tried, no treatment is promising.
Sustainable food processing: single and interactive effects of type and quantity of brewers' spent grain and of type of sweetener on physicochemical and sensory characteristics of functional biscuits
Authors: Baiano Antonietta , Fiore Anna
Published: August 2023

Barley brewers' spent grain (BSG), the main by‐product of the brewing industry, can be conveniently used as supplement in nourishing and stable foods such as bakery products. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of three factors – namely amount (40 or 50%) and type of brewers spent grain (malt + durum or malt + common wheat), and type of sweetener (honey or brown sugar) ‐ on the quality attributes of the biscuits, with particular attention to the functional aspects and sensory characteristics. The cereal mixtures (60% barley malt and 40% common or durum wheat) used in brewing and the corresponding BSG were analysed, too. BSG differed from the starting cereal mixtures for the lower concentration of gallic acid and the higher contents of vanillic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, rutin, resveratrol, and kaempferol of the first. Biscuits fortified with 40% of BSG showed the highest total phenolic contents, received the highest overall quality scores if sweetened with brown sugar and, if formulated with RI, received significantly higher scores for flavour intensity, sweetness, crunchiness, and friability and significantly lower bitterness and fibrousness than those produced with DA.
Infection‐induced seroconversion and seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 among a cohort of children and youth in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Zinszer Kate , Charland Katia , Pierce Laura , Saucier Adrien , Hamelin Marie‐Ève , Da Torre Margot Barbosa , Carbonneau Julie , Nguyen Cat Tuong , De Serres Gaston , Papenburg Jesse , Boivin Guy , Quach Caroline
Published: August 2023

The EnCORE study is a prospective serology study of SARS‐CoV‐2 in a cohort of children from Montreal, Canada. Based on data from our fourth round of data collection (May–October 2022), we estimated SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence and seroconversion. Using multivariable regression, we identified factors associated with seroconversion. Our results show that previously seronegative children were approximately 9–12 times more likely to seroconvert during the early Omicron‐dominant period compared to pre‐Omicron rounds. Unlike the pre‐Omicron rounds, the adjusted rate of seroconversion among 2‐ to 4‐year‐olds was higher than older age groups. As seen previously, higher seroconversion rates were associated with ethnic/racial minority status.
Air‐stable, flexible Na3SbS4 thin membrane prepared via a dry‐film strategy
Authors: He Chengmiao , Gao Chengwei , Zhang Jiahui , Li Xu , Zhou Tianyue , Kang Shiliang , Tan Linling , Jiao Qing , Lin Changgui
Published: August 2023

All‐solid‐state sodium ion batteries (ASSIBs) attract growing attention as the next generation of batteries due to their high energy density, excellent safety, and the abundance of sodium resources. As a vital component of ASSIBs, chalcogenide Na‐ion solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) have been widely studied due to their high ionic conductivity and outstanding ductility. However, due to the susceptibility to organic solvents and moisture, no chalcogenide Na‐ion SSEs membrane has been reported while only thick SSEs pellets have been investigated, which introduces abundant “dead” weight and lowers the energy density of ASSIBs. Herein, utilizing the excellent air stability of Na3SbS4, a thin (∼220 μm) Na3SbS4 membrane is prepared in air via a facile dry‐film method with polytetrafluoroethylene fibrillation, which exhibits a high ionic conductivity of 0.19 mS cm and an excellent critical current density of 0.6 mA/cm2. In summary, the chalcogenide Na‐ion SSEs membranes with high ionic conductivity and the simple preparation process could be readily adopted by pragmatic high‐performance ASSIBs.
TaSi2‐modified HfB2–SiC coating: Preparation and ablation behavior
Authors: Zhang Jiaping , Hou Jiaqi , Zhou Lei , Ding Wuqing , Fu Qiangang
Published: August 2023

HfB2–SiC coatings modified with TaSi2 were prepared on carbon/carbon composites by slurry‐dipping combined with gaseous silicon infiltration. The effects of TaSi2 content on the microstructure and ablation performance were investigated. With 20 wt.% addition of TaSi2, the HfB2–SiC coating demonstrated the highest resistance to ablation under an oxyacetylene torch. The good ablation resistance was attributed to the formation of the Hf–Ta–Si–O compound phase, the Hf–Ta–O skeleton and the “sheet‐like” clusters. During ablation, the Hf–Ta–Si–O compound phase healed the defects and inhibited penetration of oxygen. Meanwhile, both the Hf–Ta–O skeleton and the “sheet‐like” clusters with good stability pinned the compound phase. They jointly enhanced the ablation performance of the coating.
Future directions in ceramic additive manufacturing: Fiber reinforcements and artificial intelligence
Authors: Rueschhoff Lisa M. , Baldwin Luke A. , Hardin James O. , Kaufman Jonathan
Published: August 2023

Research in the field of ceramic additive manufacturing (AM) has been rapidly accelerating, resulting in hundreds of publications and review articles in recent years. While strides have been made in forming near‐net and complex‐shaped ceramic components, challenges remain that inhibit more widespread implementation. In this perspective, we provide a meta‐analysis of recent review articles and highlight a deficiency in two areas of promising future directions to address remaining challenges. The first is incorporation of fiber reinforcements in printed parts to overcome the challenges of poor mechanical performance of monolithic ceramics. Recent work in the area has shown promise incorporating discrete fiber reinforcements as an easier use case given existing equipment limitations, but continuous fibers are needed to reach full toughness potential. Here, we overview some options and future directions bases on success in polymer composites. Second, artificial intelligence (AI) approaches, including machine learning (ML), are suggested in order to accelerate feedstock development and process optimization. While there has been very limited work to date in utilizing AI/ML techniques for ceramic AM, again inspiration and lessons learned are drawn from the polymer AM community.
Improved energy storage performance of NaNbO3‐based antiferroelectrics by tuning polarizability and defect engineering
Authors: Yang Letao , Kong Xi , Lin Yuan‐Hua , Zhang Shujun , Nan Ce‐Wen
Published: August 2023

NaNbO3‐based antiferroelectric ceramics are promising candidates for high‐performance energy storage capacitors due to their environmental friendliness and low cost despite their current energy storage properties being inferior to those of their lead‐based and AgNbO3‐based counterparts. Typically, the antiferroelectric phase in NaNbO3 ceramics is not stable and the characteristic double hysteresis loops are seldom observed. In this work, the antiferroelectricity was improved by reducing the polarizability, resulting in well‐developed double hysteresis loops in 0.94NaNbO3–0.06(K0.5Bi0.5)SnO3 ceramics. To further improve the energy storage properties, defect engineering was performed for 0.94NaNbO3–0.06(K0.5Bi0.5)SnO3 by substituting Na+ with La3+ and introducing Nb vacancies. As a result, the stability of the field‐induced ferroelectric phase was reduced, and the energy storage properties were enhanced. The strategy of combining polarizability design and defect engineering can be a promising approach for optimizing NaNbO3‐based antiferroelectric ceramics.
Training programme for community service providers who support adults with intellectual disabilities: A systematic quantitative literature review of single‐case research
Authors: Mullins Laura E. , Scott Victoria , Cox Alison D.
Published: August 2023

Background

Research on training direct support professionals to address challenging behaviour exhibited by adults with intellectual disabilities is essential in generating effective training approaches for this sector. This systematic review's objective was to evaluate the effects of training types and whether specific training delivery components influenced outcomes.

Methods

Following PRISMA (2020) guidelines, 16 single‐case design studies were included that directly evaluated behaviour change of service providers training for adults with intellectual disabilities in community settings. Study quality was assessed using Horner et al. (Exceptional Children, 2005, 71(2), 165–180) criteria. The database searched included Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, Psych Info, and Web of Science.

Results

Descriptive analysis of effect size outcomes suggested that all training types were associated with improved outcomes. Further, in situ training was associated with improved service provider performance. Interestingly, feedback was associated with poorer service provider performance.

Conclusions

We provide possible explanations for this surprising outcome and propose future research.
Why studying the response of trait coordination to insularity matters?
Authors: Midolo Gabriele , Méndez‐Castro Francisco E. , Ottaviani Gianluigi
Published: August 2023

Functional island biogeography can provide eco–evolutionary insights into which main drivers contribute to shaping the distribution of organisms' forms and functions on islands. It does so by examining trait patterns. As a result, traits are increasingly studied on islands, either along insularity gradients or by comparing patterns of island versus mainland biota. So far, functional island biogeography has investigated trends of trait values (i.e., average, functional diversity), whereas coordination between pairs of traits remains unexplored along insularity gradients. Yet, trait coordination analyses constitute the foundational tool to detect main functional spectra and strategies of organisms. In this perspective, we set out to offer a conceptual and analytical framework that should facilitate the inclusion of trait coordination (i.e., the co–variation of traits both at the intra– and interspecific level) in functional island biogeography. We illustrate, with a case study focused on persistence traits of edaphic island plant specialists, what type of insights can be gained by examining the response of trait coordination to variation in insularity. We asked two questions, namely whether, with increasing insularity, the strength of the relationship (R2) increases (Q1), and the direction of the relationship (slope) decreases (Q2). We positively answered our research questions, with lines of evidence suggesting a selective “forcing” towards tighter and more strongly coordinated strategies (Q1), and functional trade‐offs (Q2). We infer which ecological and biogeographic drivers could be behind the observed patterns, while acknowledging possible drawbacks. We conclude by identifying three main take–home messages and related future directions for integrating trait coordination in functional island biogeography to further advance the field.
Effectiveness and safety of tildrakizumab for the treatment of psoriasis in real‐world settings at 24 weeks: A retrospective, observational, multicentre study by the Spanish Psoriasis Group
Authors: Berenguer‐Ruiz Sonsoles , Aparicio‐Domínguez Mario , Herranz‐Pinto Pedro , Ruíz‐Villaverde Ricardo , López‐Ferrer Anna , Santos‐Juanes Jorge , Rodríguez Fernández‐Freire Lourdes , Hospital‐Gil Mercedes , Arias‐Santiago Salvador , Carretero‐Hernández Gregorio , Mateu‐Puchades Almudena , Ferran Marta , del Alcázar Elena , Santos‐Alarcón Sergio , Garcia‐Latasa de Aranibar Francisco Javier , Belinchón‐Romero Isabel , González‐Cantero Álvaro , Ruíz‐Genao Diana , Eiris‐Salvado Noemí , Rocamora‐Durán Vicenç , Rivera‐Diaz Raquel , de la Cueva Pablo , Daudén Esteban , Salgado‐Boquete Laura , Llamas‐Velasco Mar ,   Spanish Psoriasis Group of the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology
Published: August 2023

Background

Tildrakizumab is a humanized, IgG1/κ antibody that interacts with the p19 subunit of interleukin 23. It is approved for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Real‐world evidence on the effectiveness and safety of tildrakizumab is limited.

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness and safety of tildrakizumab at 24 weeks in patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis in routine clinical practice.

Methods

Retrospective, observational, multicentre study including adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis treated with tildrakizumab under real‐life conditions. Patient data were extracted from anonymized electronic medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS22.

Results

A total of 190 patients were included. About 53.9% were men with a mean age of 51.45 (SD 3.9) and a mean BMI of 29.13 (SD 6.21). About 79.8% (132 out of 190) of patients had previously received biological therapy (BT) and 17.3% (33 out of 191) had psoriatic arthritis. Baseline PASI was 10.7 (SD 6.53). Up to 109 patients reached Week 24 and at this point mean baseline PASI decreased to 1.7 (SD 4.8), representing an 88.79% mean PASI reduction. At 6 months, 87.1% and 40.3% of the treated patients achieved PASI ≤3 and ≤1, respectively. At Week 24 mean BSA decreased from 13.2 (SD 10.07) to 1.6 (SD 4.40) and mean DLQI went from 12.5 (SD 7.12) to 1.2 (SD 3.27). Multivariate analysis showed no differences when effectiveness was correlated with gender, obesity, psoriatic arthritis or prior exposure to BT. The rate of adverse events (AE) was 5.9% (11 out of 190), where infections were the most frequent AE (4 out of 11). One patient suffered a haemorrhagic ictus and one patient died due to causes unrelated to the study.

Conclusion

Tildrakizumab was effective and safe in a large cohort of patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis treated in a routine clinical setting.
Management of bleeding during dental implant surgery using a novel implant with an abbreviated drilling protocol: A clinical report
Authors: Babayan Mikhail , Bidra Avinash S.
Published: August 2023

Coagulopathy is a well‐recognized complication in dental surgery in patients who use oral anticoagulants or some dietary supplements. Proper pre‐operative diagnosis, medical consultation, timely management, and conservative treatment can decrease the incidence of such complications. Management of bleeding during dental implant surgery commonly involves conventional methods such as discontinuation of anticoagulant use, compression, styptics, and local anesthetic administration containing vasoconstrictors. This clinical report describes the successful management of a patient with a history of coagulopathy who was rehabilitated with complete arch fixed implant‐supported prostheses with immediate loading. A novel implant design with a significantly abbreviated single drill protocol for osteotomy preparation was used in an outpatient setting. The novel protocol successfully decreased the overall bleeding and significantly reduced the intraoperative time for the surgical procedure. Additional considerations related to the novel implant design and osteotomy protocol, supplementary applications, and advantages of the protocol are presented in this article.
Digital workflow of labial guides for alveolar ridge reduction during implant‐supported full‐arch rehabilitation
Authors: Fang Tinglu , Gao Jing , Wu Qin , Xie Chenyang , Zhang Yuqiang , Lu Jiayi , Yu Haiyang
Published: August 2023

This article presents a technique for fabricating two‐piece labial guides using resin and cobalt‐chromium for guided alveoloplasty, implant placement, and immediate full‐arch implant‐supported fixed complete denture placement. This technique reduces tissue damage and overcomes the negative effect of the anatomical position of the palatal neuropore and mobility of the tissue flap on the positioning and stability of the guide. The use of labial retention metal guides with improved mechanical properties of cobalt‐chromium and fixation plugs allows the unilateral placement of the guide. Thus, minimally invasive implant surgery can be performed owing to the absence of large palatal flap elevation and obstruction. Such a design provides better stability of the guides and clear visual access during surgery.
Repeated Exposure Effect on the Likeability of Odors Depends on the Exposure Time and Stimulus‐Processing During Exposure
Authors: Ogawa Midori , Ayabe‐Kanamura Saho
Published: August 2023

We investigated whether stimulus‐processing in sensory or semantic memory influenced affective responses after repeated exposures. This entailed exploring whether activating sensory memory by comparing odor strength during exposure (Experiments 1 and 3) or activating semantic memory by naming the odor during exposure (Experiments 2 and 4) changed affective responses to the odor. Generally pleasant or generally unpleasant odors were presented to participants 40 times (Experiments 1 and 2) or 10 times (Experiments 3 and 4), and their liking for the odor was rated before and after the exposure. Results indicated that affective responses to odors became neutral after 40 exposures, regardless of processing the odor in sensory or semantic memory during the exposure. The liking score changed only for likable odors after 10 exposures, when the odor was processed in sensory memory (bottom‐up processing) during the exposure. These findings suggest that affective responses change through repeated exposure, regardless of the type of stimulus processing. However, the repeated exposure effect differed based on the stimulus‐processing type during the exposure, when the number of exposures was limited.
Thirlwall's law: Binding constraint or ‘centre‐of‐gravity’?
Authors: J. Dávila‐Fernández Marwil , Sordi Serena
Published: August 2023

Thirlwall's law is one of the most powerful empirical regularities in demand‐led growth theories. In recent years, the challenges imposed by globalisation have led to a new wave of studies incorporating into this framework topics such as ecological sustainability, the complexity of innovation processes, the role of institutions, the composition of external imbalances, and gender issues. We notice some overlapping between two alternative interpretations: one that sees the law as a binding constraint and another that adopts a kind of ‘centre‐of‐gravity’ perspective. It is argued that they may be rather complementary. By means of a simple Keynesian multiplier model compatible with Harrodian instability, we show that assuming a balance‐of‐payments ceiling to growth gives rise to persistent and bounded fluctuations such that the external constraint works as an asymmetric ‘centre‐of‐gravity’. There is no need to impose a floor to output. Moreover, the model allows for different sources of autonomous demand. Numerical simulations show the robustness of our results with respect to alternative scenarios.
The effects of alarm fatigue on the tendency to make medical errors in nurses working in intensive care units
Authors: Gündoğan Gamze , Erdağı Oral Semra
Published: August 2023

Background

Alarm fatigue resulting from exposure to multiple alarms is an important problem that threatens patient safety. The fact that each device in intensive care units works with different alarm systems increases the number and variety of alarms.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of alarm fatigue on the tendency of nurses working in intensive care units to make medical errors.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional and correlational design were used in this study. The study was carried out with 382 intensive care nurses who could be reached via an electronic questionnaire. Data were collected using a ‘Personal Information Form’, the ‘Alarm Fatigue Scale (AFS)’ and the ‘Medical Error Tendency Scale in Nursing (METSN)’.

Results

The mean age of the nurses who were included in the study was 31.52 ± 5.66. While 70.2% of the participants were women, 67% had bachelor's degrees, and 65.4% had been working in the intensive care unit for 1–5 years. The mean total METSN score of the participants was 229.29 ± 15.32, and their mean total AFS score was 20.02 ± 6.15. A negative and weak significant correlation was found between the total mean AFS and METSN scores of the participants (r = −0.275; p < .001). As the alarm fatigue levels of the participants increased, their medical error tendencies increased. It was determined that a one‐unit increase in the alarm fatigue level of intensive care nurses increased their tendency to make medical errors by 0.263 units (p < .001).

Conclusions

It was found that the nurses had a low tendency to make medical errors and moderate levels of alarm fatigue, and an increase in their alarm fatigue levels significantly increased their medical error tendencies.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Institutions should establish alarm management procedures in units with multiple alarm systems, such as intensive care units, and examine the effects of alarms on employees.
Knowledge of pulse oximetry among emergency and critical care nurses
Authors: Hasanien Amer A. , Albusoul Randa M.
Published: August 2023

Background

The pulse oximeter is a simple, cost‐effective and reliable device for estimating arterial blood oxygen saturation. Nurses are required to be knowledgeable in pulse oximeter use. Little is known about nurses' knowledge of pulse oximetry in the Middle East region.

Aim

To assess nurses' knowledge of pulse oximetry among emergency and critical care nurses and to explore predictors of nurses' knowledge of pulse oximetry.

Study Design

This is the second part of data analysis that was first presented in the ‘proficiency in ECG’ study conducted in Jordan. The original data used for both parts of analysis included a questionnaire with two tests; a knowledge of pulse oximeter test and an ECG proficiency test. Participants were asked to take, alone without receiving assistance, both tests. In this study, the second part of analysis, the focus is on the pulse oximeter test. The test consisted of 21 items that emphasize knowledge of basic physiological principles as well as device limitations; whether technical or interpretation. The test administration procedure also included asking participants to provide socio‐demographic variables. In the original data collected in both parts of analysis, nurses working in the emergency department, cardiac care units or intensive care units from nine different hospitals (1 governmental, 6 private and 2 educational) and holding a bachelor degree or higher were asked to participate.

Results

The total number of participating nurses was 210; out of 247 approached (response rate, 85%). The mean score in the nurses' knowledge of pulse oximetry test was 12.33 out of 21, corresponding to 58.7%. The clinical area currently working in predicted the knowledge of pulse oximetry test score after controlling for all other variables. Emergency department and intensive care unit nurses scored higher than cardiac care unit nurses by 1.86 and 1.63 points respectively (58.2% and 60% respectively).

Conclusion

Nurses consistently report inadequate education and training concerning pulse oximeter use and interpretation. A revision to hospital in‐service education seminars and undergraduate nurses' curriculum to assure adequate preparation is needed.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Knowledge of pulse oximetry among emergency and critical care nurses is modest. This is a challenge worldwide. Predictors of nurses' knowledge of pulse oximetery are the clinical area currently working in (ICU and ED nurses are more knowledgeable than CCU nurses), proficiency in electrocardiography and taking an advanced cardiac life support course.
Poleward shifts in the maximum of spring phenological responsiveness of Ginkgo biloba to temperature in China
Authors: Wu Zhaofei , Fu Yongshuo H. , Crowther Thomas W. , Wang Shuxin , Gong Yufeng , Zhang Jing , Zhao Yun‐Peng , Janssens Ivan , Penuelas Josep , Zohner Constantin M.
Published: August 2023

Global warming is advancing the timing of spring leaf‐out in temperate and boreal plants, affecting biological interactions and global biogeochemical cycles. However, spatial variation in spring phenological responsiveness to climate change within species remains poorly understood.

Here, we investigated variation in the responsiveness of spring phenology to temperature (RSP; days to leaf‐out at a given temperature) in 2754 Ginkgo biloba twigs of trees distributed across subtropical and temperate regions in China from 24°N to 44°N.

We found a nonlinear effect of mean annual temperature on spatial variation in RSP, with the highest response rate at c. 12°C and lower response rates at warmer or colder temperatures due to declines in winter chilling accumulation. We then predicted the spatial maxima in RSP under current and future climate scenarios, and found that trees are currently most responsive in central China, which corresponds to the species' main distribution area. Under a high‐emission scenario, we predict a 4‐degree latitude shift in the responsiveness maximum toward higher latitudes over the rest of the century.

The identification of the nonlinear responsiveness of spring phenology to climate gradients and the spatial shifts in phenological responsiveness expected under climate change represent new mechanistic insights that can inform models of spring phenology and ecosystem functioning.
A phoenix glimmers within the ashes: generalized defensive traits suggest hope for plants under attack by invasive pests
Authors: Johnson Todd D. , Whitehill Justin G. A.
Published: August 2023

This article is a Commentary on Gossner et al. (2023), 240: 1219–1232.
The effectiveness of interventions for optometric referrals into the hospital eye service: A review
Authors: Carmichael Josie , Abdi Sarah , Balaskas Konstantinos , Costanza Enrico , Blandford Ann
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Ophthalmic services are currently under considerable stress; in the UK, ophthalmology departments have the highest number of outpatient appointments of any department within the National Health Service. Recognising the need for intervention, several approaches have been trialled to tackle the high numbers of false‐positive referrals initiated in primary care and seen face to face within the hospital eye service (HES). In this mixed‐methods narrative synthesis, we explored interventions based on their clinical impact, cost and acceptability to determine whether they are clinically effective, safe and sustainable. A systematic literature search of PubMed, MEDLINE and CINAHL, guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA), was used to identify appropriate studies published between December 2001 and December 2022.

Recent Findings

A total of 55 studies were reviewed. Four main interventions were assessed, where two studies covered more than one type: training and guidelines (n = 8), referral filtering schemes (n = 32), asynchronous teleophthalmology (n = 13) and synchronous teleophthalmology (n = 5). All four approaches demonstrated effectiveness for reducing false‐positive referrals to the HES. There was sufficient evidence for stakeholder acceptance and cost‐effectiveness of referral filtering schemes; however, cost comparisons involved assumptions. Referral filtering and asynchronous teleophthalmology reported moderate levels of false‐negative cases (2%–20%), defined as discharged patients requiring HES monitoring.

The effectiveness of interventions varied depending on which outcome and stakeholder was considered. More studies are required to explore stakeholder opinions around all interventions. In order to maximise clinical safety, it may be appropriate to combine more than one approach, such as referral filtering schemes with virtual review of discharged patients to assess the rate of false‐negative cases. The implementation of a successful intervention is more complex than a ‘one‐size‐fits‐all’ approach and there is potential space for newer types of interventions, such as artificial intelligence clinical support systems within the referral pathway.
Towards inclusive public administration systems: Public budgeting from the perspective of critical race theory
Authors: Martínez Guzmán Juan Pablo , Jordan Meagan M. , Joyce Philip G.
Published: August 2023

While there is a developing consensus that governments need to address systemic racism, public administration scholarship has not played a large role in supporting policymakers who want to achieve that end. To institutionalize that effort, we analyze the budget process as a setting to identify inequities and incorporate social equity given its overarching reach across all programs and policies. This article uses the tenets of critical race theory to illustrate how to use the budget process to incorporate equity. The resulting racial equity budgeting (REB) framework has three tenets: acknowledging and correcting historic biases, increasing the voice of nondominant groups, and disrupting the status quo by ensuring equity in current policies. The REB framework suggests how public officials may apply these tenets to the stages of public budgeting, including the use of reparation statements, increasing the participation of underrepresented minorities, and reviewing the disaggregated impact of policies, among others.
Capital flows to developing countries: Implications for monetary policy across the globe
Authors: Harrison Andre , Reed Robert R.
Published: August 2023

The public sectors in many developing countries receive capital inflows from advanced countries. Notably, we show that higher levels of foreign borrowing play an important role in promoting economic activity in developing countries by relieving crowding out problems from local sovereign debt. Moreover, in comparison to previous contributions, we also show how participation affects economic activity in advanced countries. Using a micro‐founded two‐country model of money and banking, we show that there are crowding‐out effects in high income economies when the advanced country funds official foreign debt. Moreover, we find that there are significant implications for the effects of monetary policy when banks in the developed world hold more official foreign debt. In addition, the typical destructive effects of money growth in developing countries are weaker in the presence of higher levels of international borrowing. By comparison, the effects of monetary stimulus in the advanced country become more pronounced as banks hold more foreign bonds. Our analysis concludes by looking at optimal debt policy. Interestingly, the results suggest that developing countries should limit their reliance on foreign capital inflows.
Weekday and weekend physical activity patterns and their correlates among young adults
Authors: Suorsa Kristin , Leskinen Tuija , Rovio Suvi , Niinikoski Harri , Pentti Jaana , Nevalainen Jaakko , Heinonen Olli J. , Lagström Hanna , Jula Antti , Viikari Jorma , Rönnemaa Tapani , Raitakari Olli , Stenholm Sari , Pahkala Katja
Published: August 2023

Background

Accelerometers enable assessment of within and between day variation in physical activity. The main aim was to examine weekday and weekend physical activity patterns among young adults. Additionally, correlates of the physical activity patterns were examined.

Methods

Overall 325 adults (mean age 26.0 years, standard deviation 0.03) from the Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project used a wrist‐worn ActiGraph accelerometer continuously for 1 week. Physical activity patterns over weekdays and weekends were identified by using the group‐based trajectory modeling. Adolescent leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and sociodemographic characteristics (sex, marital and family status, education, work status, occupation, and health consciousness) were examined as possible correlates of physical activity patterns using multinomial regression analysis.

Results

Five patterns were identified: consistently low activity (45%), active on weekday evenings and weekends (32%), consistently moderate activity (11%), active on weekdays (7%), and consistently high activity (5%). Low adolescent LTPA was associated with consistently low activity pattern in young adulthood. Women were more likely than men to belong in the more physically active groups (all other groups except active on weekdays, odds ratios between 2.26 and 6.17). Those in the active on weekdays group had lower education, were more often in the working life and in manual occupations than those in the consistently low activity group.

Conclusions

Marked heterogeneity in physical activity patterns across the week was observed among young adults. Especially history of physical activity, sex, education, work status, and occupation were associated with different physical activity patterns.
Near‐peer teaching in simulation
Authors: Malmut Laura , Ng Alvin
Published: August 2023

Background

Development, implementation and evaluation of a simulation curriculum is time and resource intensive. Limited faculty time and training are cited as primary barriers to adopting simulation into medical education. Near‐peer teaching is a potential solution to manage the increased teaching demands that occur with simulation use.

Approach

In 2022, we implemented a near‐peer simulation curriculum for teaching junior physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) residents high‐acuity low‐opportunity events commonly seen on the inpatient rehabilitation unit. The curriculum was taught by senior residents to supplement faculty lectures. Senior residents completed facilitator training on simulator logistics, debriefing and formative assessment.

Evaluation

Residents completed an end‐of‐course questionnaire evaluating teaching effectiveness and perceived knowledge acquisition. All items were scored on a 5‐point Likert‐type scale. Learners rated their near‐peers as having good clinical teaching effectiveness (mean [SD], 4.66[0.38]). Senior residents (n = 6) disclosed feeling knowledgeable about the topics they instructed (baseline 3.9[3.2–4.4]; after 4.6[4.1–4.9]; p = 0.19), and junior residents (n = 6) felt they gained knowledge and improved their ability to manage patients as a result of the near‐peer curriculum (baseline 2.4[2.3–2.5]; after 3.9[3.5–4.2]; p = 0.005).

Implications

This educational programme is an example of how near‐peer teaching can be used in simulation. Our simulation curriculum taught by near‐peers was valued by learners as well taught and educational. Research is needed that directly compares the effectiveness of near‐pear teaching to faculty instruction. We hope that by sharing our work, educators will feel inspired to use near‐peer teachers for simulation instruction when faculty availability for teaching is scarce.
Nowcasting services trade for the G7 economies
Authors: Jaax Alexander , Mourougane Annabelle , Gonzales Frederic
Published: August 2023

The growing importance of services trade in the global economy contrasts with the scarcity of timely data on this part of international trade. This paper develops models to nowcast aggregate services imports and exports, as measured by monthly services trade data, for the G7 countries. The methodology relies on machine‐learning techniques and dynamic factor models and combines traditional high‐frequency data with the use of Google Trends search data. The estimated services trade nowcasting models display a higher out‐of‐sample predictive power than a simple benchmark model. However, there does not seem to be one approach that outperforms other model specifications. Rather, a weighted average of the best models, combining machine‐learning with dynamic factor models, seems to be a promising avenue. The best models improve one step ahead predictive performance relative to a simple benchmark by 30%–35% on average across the G7 countries and across trade flows. Models capture approximately 67% of the fall in services exports following the COVID‐19 shock and 60% of the fall in imports on average across G7 economies.
COVID‐19 and the distance effect
Authors: Lin Faqin , Liu Mengxun , Zhou Mohan
Published: August 2023

Using nearly 200 countries' bilateral trade data and the gravity equation, this paper provides evidence that COVID‐19 has led countries to trade more with their closer countries. The negative distance effect is greater during the pandemic period, with a greater number of infected cases, deaths or stricter control policies. A simple model of a transportation sector that was affected by the pandemic was built to explain our empirical findings.
Preliminary Study of Utilizing Polyaniline as Electrode Material for Supercapacitor Application: Juxtaposition of Electrochemical Performances
Authors: Zaulkiflee Nur Dina , Ahmad Abdul Latif , Che Lah Nuur Fahanis , Low Siew Chun , Nishiyama Norikazu
Published: August 2023

Polyaniline (PANI) were prepared via a one-step electrochemical polymerization method in 0.2 M aniline and 0.2 M dopants for supercapacitors (SCs) application. To determine the appropriate conditions and materials for SCs application, the type of substrate, scan rate, dopants, and electrolyte on PANI were varied. The PANI composite's potential to store energy was conducted and evaluated using cyclic voltammetry in a three-electrode setup. The PANI-carbon felt demonstrated the best electrochemical performance compared to other substrate namely carbon and stainless steel. It is found that utilising H2SO4 as both dopant and electrolyte results in high specific capacitance.
Electrogenerative Process as an Alternate Technique for Nickel Recovery from Its Sulphate Solution at Low Concentration
Authors: Syed Yaacob Syed Fariq Fathullah , Hang Kadim Siti Hawa , Megat Hanafiah Megat Ahmad Kamal , Mohd Suah Faiz Bukhari
Published: August 2023

In this study, a static batch reactor equipped with three-dimensional (3-D) carbon felt (CF) as cathode material was fully optimized to recover a low nickel concentration from its sulphate solution. Nickel recovery was performed using several nickel concentrations ranging from 50, 100, 250, 400 and 500 mg/L. Moreover, within 30 min of electrogenerative operation, it was discovered that the recovery of nickel achieved > 90 % in acidic conditions. At last, the deposition of nickel into CF was further investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to visualize the surface morphology of nickel on CF.
Univariate and Multivariate Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) Model to Predict Covid-19 Cases in Malaysia Using Integrated Meteorological Data
Authors: Wei Shen Ng , Abu Bakar Azuraliza , Mohamad Hazura
Published: August 2023

The rate of transmission of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been very fast since the first reported case in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The disease has infected more than 3 million people worldwide and resulted in more than 224 thousand deaths as of May 1, 2020, reported by The World Health Organization (WHO). In the past, meteorological parameters such as temperature and humidity were essential and effective factors against serious infectious diseases such as influenza and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Therefore, exploring the relationship between meteorological factors and active COVID-19 cases is essential. This study employs the long-short term memory (LSTM) method to predict Covid-19 Cases in Malaysia. We propose a univariate and multivariate model using Covid-19 cases and meteorology data. The univariate LSTM model uses Covid-19 active cases data in a year as a control attribute for model development. The multivariate LSTM model uses the integrated Covid-19 cases, and meteorology data consists of attributes: minimum, maximum, and average values of Humidity, Temperature, Windspeed, and Pressure from 13 states of Malaysia. The model's performance is evaluated using errors such as MAE, RMSE, MAPE, and the R2 Score. The low errors and higher R2 score indicate the model's excellent performance. We observed that the univariate LSTM model gives the least error in five states, indicating that those states' daily active cases are the main contributing factors. In the multivariate LSTM model, the daily cases and humidity, temperature, and windspeed are the main factors in several different states. The result of the study is to help the government to prevent and manage the spread of the COVID-19 and other upcoming pandemic better.