bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticoagulation Monitoring and Targets: The Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Anticoagulation CollaborativE Consensus Conference
Authors: Ozment Caroline , Alexander Peta M.A. , Chandler Wayne , Emani Sitaram , Hyslop Robert , Monagle Paul , Muszynski Jennifer A. , Willems Ariane , Gehred Alison , Lyman Elizabeth , Steffen Katherine , Thiagarajan Ravi R. ,   for the Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Anticoagulation CollaborativE (PEACE), in collaboration with the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators (PALISI) Network, the Pediatric Critical Care Blood Research Network (BloodNet), and the Pediatric ECMO subgroup of PALISI and the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (PediECMO)
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To derive systematic-review informed, modified Delphi consensus regarding anticoagulation monitoring assays and target levels in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for the Pediatric ECMO Anticoagulation CollaborativE.

DATA SOURCES:

A structured literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) databases from January 1988 to May 2021.

STUDY SELECTION:

Anticoagulation monitoring of pediatric patients on ECMO.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Two authors reviewed all citations independently, with a third independent reviewer resolving any conflicts. Evidence tables were constructed using a standardized data extraction form.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool or the revised Cochrane risk of bias for randomized trials, as appropriate and the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. Forty-eight experts met over 2 years to develop evidence-based recommendations and, when evidence was lacking, expert-based consensus statements for clinical recommendations focused on anticoagulation monitoring and targets, using a web-based modified Delphi process to build consensus (defined as > 80% agreement). One weak recommendation, two consensus statements, and three good practice statements were developed and, in all, agreement greater than 80% was reached. We also derived some resources for anticoagulation monitoring for ECMO clinician use at the bedside.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is insufficient evidence to formulate optimal anticoagulation monitoring during pediatric ECMO, but we propose one recommendation, two consensus and three good practice statements. Overall, the available pediatric evidence is poor and significant gaps exist in the literature.
Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Interventions in Adults With Asthma
Authors: Zampogna Elisabetta , Oliva Federico Mattia , Del Furia Matteo Johann , Cordani Claudio , Lazzarini Stefano Giuseppe , Arienti Chiara
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and other rehabilitation interventions in adults with asthma.

Design

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Results

MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature, and CENTRAL were searched from inception to 31 May 2023. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022331440. Thirty-six randomized controlled trials were analyzed, and only 26 were pooled in the meta-analysis because of the heterogeneity of comparisons and outcomes across the studies. Pulmonary rehabilitation, compared with education associated with breathing exercises, may result in little to no difference in the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (mean difference 0.01 score, 95% confidence interval = −0.48 to 0.50, 163 participants, three studies, low certainty).

Conclusions

Our findings show that pulmonary rehabilitation, compared with education associated with breathing exercises, may result in little to no difference in the impact of asthma on health-related quality of life. Overall, the certainty of evidence was low or very low preventing any firm conclusion on the effects of single or combined rehabilitation interventions.
First-in-Human Demonstration of High-Frequency Electrical Motor Nerve Block
Authors: Knutson Jayme S. , Chepla Kyle J. , Wilson Richard D. , Fu Michael J. , Imka Emily C. , Bender Shane A. , Chae John , Kilgore Kevin L. , Bhadra Niloy
Published: July 2024

This feasibility study tested the capability of high-frequency stimulation to block muscle contractions elicited by electrical stimulation of the same nerve proximally. During a tendon lengthening surgery in the forearm, the anterior interosseous nerve was exposed. A specialized nerve cuff electrode was placed around the nerve, and a stimulating probe held on the nerve 1 cm proximal to the cuff electrode delivered pulses of current causing the pronator quadratus muscle to contract. Through the cuff electrode, 20-kHz high-frequency stimulation was delivered to the nerve for 10 secs during proximal stimulation. High-frequency stimulation amplitudes between 5 and 10 mA peak-to-peak were tested to determine which produced complete and partial block of the electrically induced contractions. The minimum high-frequency stimulation amplitude that produced complete block was 8 mA, with lower amplitudes producing partial block. In all trials, muscle contractions resumed immediately after high-frequency stimulation was turned off. This demonstration of high-frequency electrical nerve block is a milestone in the road to clinical implementation of high-frequency stimulation mediated motor block for spasticity.
Platelet-Poor Versus Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Acute Thigh Muscle Injuries
Authors: Kruse Ryan C. , Eisenmann Jordan , Glass Natalie A. , Petrachaianan Krit , Wilz Logan
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether patients treated with platelet-poor plasma after an acute thigh muscle injury would have a faster return to activity compared with patients treated with platelet-rich plasma.

Design

This quasi-experimental study included 100 patients (ages 16–45) with an acute thigh muscle injury diagnosed by sports ultrasound and treated with either platelet-rich plasma or platelet-poor plasma followed by a course of structured rehabilitation. The primary outcome was the number of days until unrestricted participation in sport, while the secondary outcome was the rate of recurrent injury within 12 mos.

Result

The time until full, unrestricted participation in sport was significantly lower in the platelet-poor plasma group compared with the platelet-rich plasma group for all injury grades, with patients in the platelet-poor plasma group on average returning to unrestricted participation in sport 22.89 days more quickly than the platelet-rich plasma group (P < 0.001). In addition, no significant difference in recurrent injury up to 12 mos after procedure was seen between groups (P = 0.967).

Conclusions

Platelet-poor plasma resulted in faster return to sport than platelet-rich plasma for acute thigh muscle injuries with a noninferior injury recurrence rate. These findings suggest that future high level studies comparing platelet-poor plasma and platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of thigh muscle injuries should be considered.
Promoting running as the best treatment for lower back pain in physiotherapy practice: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Jaster Christina , Klugarová Jitka , Królikowska Aleksandra , Kołcz Anna , Peričić Tina Poklepović , Bała Małgorzata M. , Vrbová Tereza , Becker Roland , Prill Robert
Published: July 2024

Objectives:

This project aimed to promote running as the best treatment for lower back pain (LBP) in an outpatient setting.

Introduction:

LBP is one of the most prevalent conditions worldwide. Sixty-two percent of all Germans experience episodes of non-specific back pain at least once a year, with one-fifth developing chronic conditions. Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a natural process, contributing to periods of acute LBP. However, the scientific literature and guidelines partially overlook the significance of water management in IVD. This implementation project sought to address this gap by educating patients about this process. Running and/or walking were chosen as general approaches for treatment rather than specific disease-related approaches.

Methods:

This implementation project was conducted in an outpatient physiotherapy clinic in Brandenburg, Germany, utilizing the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework. An evidence-informed clinical audit and feedback strategy was used to measure compliance with ten audit criteria. Five physiotherapists and 20 patients took part in the audits.

Results:

At baseline, only 20% of participating physiotherapists screened for yellow flags regarding psychological issues. However, after project implementation, this criterion scored 100% compliance. Some patients performed exercises independently, but confusion persisted regarding the choice of beneficial exercises. Patients continued running, but those who took a break due to pain expressed uncertainty about resuming.

Conclusions:

The project highlighted the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between patients and therapists to address the issue. The project team's conviction in action and solution strategies serves as the foundation for this collaboration. This implementation strategy provided “running” patients with the confidence to either resume or reintegrate running after an extended break.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A222
Introducing multidisciplinary ward rounds in Malawi: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Johnson Beverley , Bennett Clare , Carrier Judith , Watkins Dianne , Mula Chimwemwe , Kazidule Raphael , Salley Pricilla , Klugar Miloslav , Klugarova Jitka
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in the United Kingdom advocate the use of structured multidisciplinary team (MDT) ward rounds since they can enable safe, effective, improved care and enhanced staff satisfaction.

Objectives:

This project sought to implement best practices for MDT ward rounds in a male medical ward in a hospital in Malawi.

Methods:

The project was conducted in line with the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework. A baseline audit of MDT ward rounds was conducted with six staff members. Audit criteria consisted of ten best practices, as recommended by JBI, the RCP, and the RCN. Stakeholder meetings were held to review the baseline audit results and highlight areas of non-compliance. JBI's Getting Research into Practice (GRiP) tool was used to identify barriers to compliance with best practices, and a follow-up audit was conducted to determine changes in practice.

Results:

The results only showed improvement for one criterion, which rose from 33% to 100% (n=6) where nurses attended the ward round.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated some challenges in evidence implementation projects and how these can, in part, be overcome. While the results only demonstrated improvement for one criterion, this paper shows how audits can be used to promote best practice, which in this case resulted in nurses being more involved in ward rounds, improvements in MDT communication, enhanced nurse inclusion in decision-making and, consequently, patient care.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A233
An eco-friendly first and second derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetry for quantification of florfenicol in presence of its different degradation products. Application to kinetic stability study
Authors: Ayman Aya , Wahba M. E. K. , El-Gindy Alaa El-din M. A. , El-Shabrawy Yasser , Mostafa Aziza E.
Published: July 2024

Two rapid, simple, sensitive and selective derivative spectrofluorimetric methods (first and second derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric (FDSFS and SDSFS) procedures) have been developed for the analysis of florfenicol in the presence of its various degradation products. FDSFS was applied to assay the drug in the presence of its alkaline, oxidative and photolytic degradation products while SDSFS was used to quantify it in the presence of its acidic degradation product. These methods permitted quantification of florfenicol at corresponding
λ
Em
of 288, 287, 279 and 284 nm without interferences from any of its degradation products. Full validation procedures were applied to the suggested method according to International Conference of Harmonization guidelines. Moreover, different degradation kinetic parameters were calculated such as half-life (
t
1/2
), degradation rate constant (
K
) and activation energy (
E
a
). Using the analytical eco-scale, green analytical procedure index and analytical greenness metric approach AGREE as greenness assessment tools, the proposed method was found to be environmentally friendly.
Anatomical and functional analysis of the corticospinal tract in an FRDA mouse model
Authors: Nishiyama Misa , Kalambogias John , Imai Fumiyasu , Yang Emily , Lang Sonia , de Nooij Joriene C , Yoshida Yutaka
Published: July 2024

Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) is one of the most common hereditary ataxias. It is caused by a GAA repeat in the first intron of the FXN gene, which encodes an essential mitochondrial protein. Patients suffer from progressive motor dysfunction due to the degeneration of mechanoreceptive and proprioceptive neurons in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and cerebellar dentate nucleus neurons, especially at early disease stages. Postmortem analyses of FRDA patients also indicate pathological changes in motor cortex including in the projection neurons that give rise to the cortical spinal tract (CST). Yet, it remains poorly understood how early in the disease cortical spinal neurons (CSNs) show these alterations, or whether CSN/CST pathology resembles the abnormalities observed in other tissues affected by FXN loss. To address these questions, we examined CSN driven motor behaviors and pathology in the YG8JR FRDA mouse model. We find that FRDA mice show impaired motor skills, exhibit significant reductions in CSN functional output, and, among other pathological changes, show abnormal mitochondrial distributions in CSN neurons and CST axonal tracts. Moreover, some of these alterations were observed as early as two months of age, suggesting that CSN/CST pathology may be an earlier event in FRDA disease than previously appreciated. These studies warrant a detailed mechanistic understanding of how FXN loss impacts CSN health and functionality.
FLT3 is genetically essential for ITD-mutated leukemic stem cells but dispensable for human hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Araujo Joana L , Wagenblast Elvin , Voisin Veronique , McLeod Jessica , Gan Olga I. , Bansal Suraj , Jin Liqing , Mitchell Amanda , Gratton Blaise , Cutting Sarah , Arruda Andrea , Doedens Monica , Capo-Chichi Jose-Mario , Abelson Sagi , Minden Mark D , Wang Jean C. Y. , Sobrinho-Simões Manuel A. , Pinto-do-Ó Perpétua , Lechman Eric , Dick John E.
Published: July 2024

Leukemic stem cells (LSCs) fuel acute myeloid leukemia (AML) growth and relapse, but therapies tailored towards eradicating LSCs without harming healthy hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are lacking. FLT3 is considered an important therapeutic target due to frequent mutation in AML and association with relapse. However, there has been limited clinical success with FLT3 targeting, suggesting either that FLT3 is not a vulnerability in LSC, or that more potent inhibition is required, a scenario where HSC toxicity could become limiting. We tested these possibilities by ablating FLT3 using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated FLT3 knock-out (FLT3-KO) in human LSCs and HSCs followed by functional xenograft assays. FLT3-KO in LSCs from FLT3-ITD mutated, but not FLT3-WT AMLs, resulted in short-term leukemic grafts of FLT-3-KO edited cells that disappeared by 12 weeks. By contrast, FLT3-KO in HSCs from fetal liver, cord blood and adult bone marrow did not impair multilineage hematopoiesis in primary and secondary xenografts. Our study establishes FLT3 as an ideal therapeutic target where ITD+ LSC are eradicated upon FLT3 deletion, while HSCs are spared. These findings support the development of more potent FLT3-targeting drugs or gene-editing approaches for LSC eradication to improve clinical outcomes.

KEY POINTS

The FLT3 gene is essential for ITD-mutated leukemic stem cells (LSCs) to establish and propagate leukemia.

Normal human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) do not require FLT3 to engraft and sustain hematopoiesis.
High-Throughput Bioprinting of Spheroids for Scalable Tissue Fabrication
Authors: Kim Myoung Hwan , Singh Yogendra Pratap , Celik Nazmiye , Yeo Miji , Rizk Elias , Hayes Daniel J. , Ozbolat Ibrahim T
Published: July 2024

Tissue biofabrication that replicates an organ-specific architecture and function requires physiologically-relevant cell densities. Bioprinting using spheroids has the potential to create constructs with native cell densities, but its application is limited due to the lack of practical, scalable techniques. This study presents HITS-Bio (High-throughput Integrated Tissue Fabrication System for Bioprinting), a novel multiarray spheroid bioprinting technology enabling scalable tissue fabrication by rapidly positioning a number of spheroids simultaneously using a digitally-controlled nozzle array (DCNA) platform. HITS-Bio achieves an unprecedented speed, an order of magnitude faster compared to existing techniques while maintaining high cell viability (>90%). The platform’s ability to pattern multiple spheroids simultaneously enhances fabrication rates proportionally to the size of DCNA used. The utility of HITS-Bio was exemplified in multiple applications, including intraoperative bioprinting with microRNA transfected spheroids for calvarial bone regeneration (∼30 mm3) in a rat model achieving a near-complete defect closure (∼91% in 3 weeks and ∼96% in 6 weeks). Additionally, the successful fabrication of scalable cartilage constructs (1 cm3) containing ∼600 chondrogenic spheroids highlights its high-throughput efficiency (under 40 min per construct) and potential for repairing volumetric tissue defects.
Startling acoustic stimuli hasten reflexive choice reaching tasks by strengthening, but not changing the timing of, express visuomotor responses
Authors: Weerdesteyn Vivian , Kearsley Sarah L , Cecala Aaron L , Macpherson Ewan A , Corneil Brian D.
Published: July 2024

Responding to an external stimulus takes ∼200 ms, but this can be shortened to as little as ∼120 ms with the additional presentation of a startling acoustic stimulus. This phenomenon is hypothesized to arise from the involuntary release of a prepared movement (aStartReacteffect). However, a startling acoustic stimulus also expedites rapid mid-flight, reactive adjustments to unpredictably displaced targets which could not have been prepared in advance. We surmise that for such rapid visuomotor transformations, intersensory facilitation may occur between auditory signals arising from the startling acoustic stimulus and visual signals relayed along a fast subcortical network. To explore this, we examined how a startling acoustic stimulus shortens reaction times in a task that produces express visuomotor responses, which are brief bursts of muscle activity that arise from a fast tectoreticulospinal network. We measured express visuomotor responses on upper limb muscles in humans as they reached either toward or away from a stimulus in blocks of trials where movements could either be fully prepared or not, occasionally pairing stimulus presentation with a startling acoustic stimulus. The startling acoustic stimulus reliably produced larger but fixed-latency express visuomotor responses in a target-selective manner, and also shortened reaction times, which were equally short for prepared and unprepared movements. Our results provide insights into how a startling acoustic stimulus shortens the latency of reactive movements without full motor preparation. We propose that the reticular formation is the likely node for intersensory convergence during the most rapid transformations of vision into targeted reaching actions.

KEY POINTS

A startling acoustic stimulus (SAS) shortens reaction times by releasing fully prepared motor programs (the StartReact effect), but can also hasten responses in reflexive tasks without any movement preparation

Here we measure the effect of a SAS on reaction times and upper limb muscle recruitment in a reflexive reaching task, focusing on express visuomotor responses that are evoked by visual target presentation and demarcate activity along a subcortical tectoreticulospinal pathway

A SAS robustly increased the magnitude of express visuomotor responses without changing their timing, and this increase was tightly related to the subsequent reaction time even in the absence of motor preparation

Our results attest to intersensory facilitation within the tectoreticulospinal pathway, which provides the shortest pathway mediating visuomotor transformations for reaching

These results reconcile discrepant findings by emphasizing the importance of intersensory facilitation in SAS-induced hastening of reaction times in reflexive tasks
Review Protocol: A Scoping Review of Natural Language Processing Technologies for Public Health in Africa
Authors: Hu Songbo , Oppong Abigail , Mogo Ebele , Barford Anna , Occhini Giulia , Collins Charlotte , Korhonen Anna
Published: July 2024

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is the field of research for a range of computational techniques that enable computers to process human languages, thereby facilitating a variety of tasks such as text analysis and language generation. Recent advancements in NLP have shown great potential in transforming public health delivery by enhancing accessibility, personalisation, and timeliness for both the public and healthcare providers. However, the application of these technologies in African communities is often confined by the limitation of digital resources, such as the scarcity of large-scale, domain-specific datasets, particularly in healthcare. This scoping review aims to systematically explore the landscape of NLP technologies for public health in Africa, identifying the available technologies, factors influencing their availability, and the gaps that need addressing. This review protocol is guided by the PRISMA-P statement. The search strategy will be executed on MEDLINE via PubMed, ACL Anthology, Scopus, IEEE Xplor, and ACM digital library, spanning from 2013 to 2024, and grey literature. The results and analysis will help to illustrate the current state of NLP applications in African public health settings and identify critical areas where investment and development are needed.
Development of food sharing online networks for sustainability: Consumer perspectives on food security and sharing
Authors: Chang Hsiu-Hua
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Sharing food through online communities is an effective channel for quickly exchanging edible food, avoiding food waste and promoting environmental sustainability. This study explores how the different characteristics of food sharing platforms influence consumers' perceptions of food safety, attitudes and intentions to engage in sharing activities.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews are first used to identify the key platform mechanisms that consumers pay attention to. A 2 (protection rules) × 2 (food supply sources) × 2 (transaction volume) factorial between-subjects experiment is used to design 8 scenarios in the literal description. This study finally collects a total of 604 valid samples through a web-based questionnaire to test the hypotheses after conducting manipulation checks, reliability and validity.

Findings

The results of this study show that the three variables of protection rules, food supply sources and transaction volume are the most important among all factors and have different levels of effects in reducing consumers' perceived lack of safety of food shared on online platforms and in improving positive attitudes and behavioral intentions. A moderating role in improving consumers' perceptions, food knowledge and cooking techniques, is also demonstrated.

Originality/value

The findings of this study make a significant contribution to the literature, which lacks research on the influence of food (un) safety on consumer perceptions through platform mechanisms in non-Western countries, as digital technology platforms can effectively connect food providers and recipients. Some practical implications for consumers regarding wasting and sharing food are also provided.
The role of female directors in family firms’ annual report´s readability
Authors: Abínzano Isabel , Garcés-Galdeano Lucía , Martínez Beatriz
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of board gender diversity on the readability of the annual reports of family-controlled public companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in the premises of the restricted and extended views of the socioemotional wealth (SEW) approach and executive power theory, this paper explores the ways in which family-affiliated female directors influence report readability in a sample of 133 publicly traded US companies listed in the Fortune 1,000. We use the system GMM estimator, which deals with two key sources of endogeneity by controlling first for reverse causality, using the lags of the endogenous variables as instruments, and then for omitted variables, capturing the individual effect.

Findings

Our analysis confirms that the significant enhancement in annual report readability is associated with the presence of female family directors, particularly those who are insiders within the company. In contrast, non-family female directors and family outsider directors appear to have a negative impact on annual report readability.

Originality/value

While scholars have increasingly focused on variations in annual report readability among family firms, the contribution of female directors to this phenomenon has received minimal attention. In our study, we integrate the theories of restricted and extended SEW perspectives with the theory of women’s executive power within the board. This integration is essential for considering two critical factors: firstly, the primacy of their SEW objectives, and, secondly, their legitimacy within the board.
Dynamic incentive mechanisms in mega project-risk management considering the participation of the insurance company
Authors: Shi Qianqian , Yao Longyu , Bi Changwei , Zhu Jianbo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The construction of megaprojects often involves substantial risks. While insurance plays an important role as a traditional risk transfer means, owners and insurance companies may still suffer huge losses during the risk management process. Therefore, considering the strong motivation of insurance companies to participate in the on-site risk management of megaprojects, this study aims to propose a collaborative incentive mechanism involving insurance companies, to optimize the risk management effect and reduce the risk of accidents in megaprojects.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on principal-agent theory, the research develops the static and dynamic incentive models for risk management in megaprojects, involving both the owner and insurance company. The study examines the primary factors influencing incentive efficiency. The results are numerically simulated with a validation case. Finally, the impact of parameter changes on the stakeholders' benefits is analyzed.

Findings

The results indicate that the dynamic incentive model is available to the achievement of a flexible mechanism to ensure the benefits of contractors while protecting the benefits of the owner and insurance company. Adjusting the incentive coefficients for owners and insurance companies within a specified range promotes the growth of benefits for all parties involved. The management cost and economic benefit allocation coefficients have a positive effect on the adjustment range of the incentive coefficient, which helps implement a more flexible dynamic incentive mechanism to motivate contractors to carry out risk management to reduce risk losses.

Originality/value

This study makes up for the absence of important stakeholders in risk management. Different from traditional megaproject risk management, this model uses insurance companies as bridges to break the island effect of risk management among multiple megaprojects. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by designing appropriate dynamic incentive mechanisms in megaproject risk management through insurance company participation, and provides practical implications to both owner and insurance company on incentive contract making, thus achieving better risk governance of megaprojects.
Decision support system (DSS) for facilities rehabilitation and management (part 2): development of optimized intervention strategy
Authors: Aldeeb Owais , Qasem Altayeb
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper (Part 2 of 2) aims to expand the previously developed performance assessment model (PAM) into a decision support system (DSS) to produce optimized decisions on rehabilitation of facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The research includes a comprehensive PAM that integrates analytical hierarchy process-multi attribute utility theory methods for the physical, operational, and environmental aspects of the mosque, as described in Part 1 of the study. An optimized intervention tool is added to the PAM to complete the DSS development. The tool determines the optimum maintenance decisions that are in line with the budget and condition criticality. The deterioration measures are created using a deterministic straight-line extrapolation technique, and the intervention actions used in the optimization are specified through literature review and in-depth interviews with 11 experts. The optimization model was simplified into a user-friendly visual basic application and applied to an existing facility case study depicting its useful functionality.

Findings

The optimization model recommendation of interventions recovered the overall condition rating index (CRI) of the facility while maintaining budget constraints. The CRI in the first approach (minimum budget to achieve acceptable overall performance) was improved from 6.5 to 7.76, costing 275,850 SAR. While the second approach (Maximum recovery with a selected budget constraint, 300,000 SAR in this case) CRI was improved from 6.5 to 8.3, costing 299,850 SAR.

Originality/value

The presented DSS in this paper offers a tool that enables the rehabilitation and overall management of any facility by its managers. The DSS can also be further customized to fit the facility manager’s specific strategies and achieve desired objectives.
Efficiency rankings of economic sectors: a focus on sustainability and circularity objectives
Authors: Bagheri Noushin , Abdelaziz Fouad Ben
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Waste generation poses a significant environmental challenge in the United Arab Emirates due to the rapid urbanization, population growth and industrialization witnessed in recent decades. As a result, there has been a substantial surge in waste production. To fulfil its sustainability and circular economy aspirations in various economic domains, the UAE must prioritize efficient waste management. The purpose of this study is to assess the environmental and energy efficiency of the UAE’s economic sectors particularly within its vital energy sectors, which encompass crude oil, natural gas and mining, manufacturing and electricity, by gauging their adherence to sustainability and circularity objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the data envelopment analysis input–output model to identify sectors that exhibit strong performance as well as those that are falling behind.

Findings

Based on this study, the agriculture, the crude oil, natural gas and mining sectors and financial services and banking were found to be the most efficient. The results of this study concluded that the UAE is making progress toward achieving its sustainability and circularity objectives; however, the findings suggest that more effort is needed to fully realize these goals.

Originality/value

By identifying high-performing and underperforming sectors, decision-makers can prioritize efforts to enhance sustainability and circularity in area of greatest need in the economy.
Are functional foods used as self-medication? Subjective health, self-reported disease symptoms, current medical treatment and functional food choices
Authors: Barauskaite Dovile , Barsyte Justina , Fennis Bob M. , Auruskeviciene Vilte , Kondo Naoki , Kondo Katsunori
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Functional foods have been marketed as promoting health and reducing the risk of disease. While the market of functional foods is increasing across the globe, little is known about how actual and subjective health status are related to functional food choices and existing research evidence is inconsistent. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to systematically explore the relationship between functional food choices and perception related dimensions vs medical dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used data collected from a large-scale mail survey in Japan (N = 8,368) and a representative Internet survey in Lithuania (N = 900). It used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the proposed conceptual model.

Findings

The general results indicated that functional foods could be used to maintain one’s subjective health status – the frequency of using functional food products was positively related to consumers’ subjective health status (p = 0.04). However, if consumers were experiencing health-related issues (self-reported disease symptoms or current medical treatment), there was no systematic relationship between such experience and the usage of functional food products.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to systematically analyze the relationship between subjective health status, self-reported disease symptoms, current medical treatment and the frequency of using different functional food product groups. The findings indicated that it is important to simultaneously consider different underlying factors, such as specific to functional food targeted disease symptoms and specific food product groups, which contributed to a more thorough understanding of functional food consumption.
Effect of glycosylation modification on structure and properties of soy protein isolate: A review
Authors: Chen Jinjing , Zhang Wanting , Chen Yiming , Li Meng , Liu Chang , Wu Xiuli
Published: July 2024

Soybean protein isolate (SPI) is a highly functional protein source used in various food applications, such as emulsion, gelatin, and food packaging. However, its commercial application may be limited due to its poor mechanical properties, barrier properties, and high water sensitivity. Studies have shown that modifying SPI through glycosylation can enhance its functional properties and biological activities, resulting in better application performance. This paper reviews the recent studies on glycosylation modification of SPI, including its quantification method, structural improvements, and enhancement of its functional properties, such as solubility, gelation, emulsifying, and foaming. The review also discusses how glycosylation affects the bioactivity of SPI, such as its antioxidant and antibacterial activity. This review aims to provide a reference for further research on glycosylation modification and lay a foundation for applying SPI in various fields.
Embryo Quality Conditions the Secretory Profile of Tolerogenic Dendritic Cell DC‐10 During the Peri‐Implantation Period
Authors: Gori Soledad , Fernández Laura , Soczewski Elizabeth , Schafir Ana , Castagnola Lara , Grasso Esteban , Martínez Gustavo , Leirós Claudia Pérez , Ramhorst Rosanna
Published: July 2024

Problem

The decidualization process conditions monocytes to the immunosuppressive and tolerogenic dendritic cell (DC)‐10 profile, a DC subset with high IL‐10 production. Since the implantation process implies an embryo‐endometrium‐immune crosstalk, here we focused on the ability of embryonic soluble factors to modify decidual DC conditioning accordingly with its quality.

Method of Study

Human endometrial stromal cell line (HESC) decidualized with medroxyprogesterone and dibutyryl‐cAMP (Dec) was stimulated with human embryo‐conditioned media (ECM), classified as normal (ND) or impaired developed (ID) for 48 h (n = 18/group). Monocytes isolated from six healthy women were differentiated to DCs with rhGM‐CSF+rhIL‐4 in the presence/absence of conditioned media (CM) from decidualized cells stimulated with ECM or nontreated.

Results

We found that decidualized cells stimulated with ECM sustain a myeloid regulatory cell profile on monocyte‐derived culture with increased frequency of CD1a‐CD14+ and CD83+CD86low cells. ND‐Dec sustained the higher expression of the DC‐10 markers, HLA‐G and IL‐10 whereas ID‐Dec diminished IL‐10 production (ID‐Dec: 135 ± 37.4 vs. Dec: 223.3 ± 49.9 pg/mL, p < 0.05). The treatment with ECM‐Dec sustained a higher IL‐10 production and prevented the increase of CD83/CD86 after LPS challenge regardless of embryo quality. Notably, TNF‐α production increased in ID‐Dec cultures (ID‐Dec: 475.1 ± 134.7 vs. Dec: 347.5 ± 98 pg/mL, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although remaining in a tolerogenic profile compatible with DC‐10, DCs can differentially respond to decidual secreted factors based on embryo quality, changing their secretome. These results suggest that in the presence of arrested embryo, DCs could differentially shape the immunological microenvironment, contributing to arrested embryo clearance during the menstrual phase.
Construction of m6A‐Related Gene Prediction Model and Subtype Analysis in Non‐Obstructive Azoospermia Based on Bioinformatics
Authors: Li Guikang , Che Kai , Wu Jie , Yang Bin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe and common cause of male infertility. Currently, the most reliable predictor of sperm retrieval success in NOA is histopathology, but preoperative testicular biopsy often increases the difficulty of sperm retrieval surgery. This study aims to explore the characteristics of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification in NOA patients and investigate the potential biomarkers and molecular mechanisms for pathological diagnosis and treatment of NOA using m6A‐related genes.

Methods

NOA‐related datasets were downloaded from the GEO database. Based on the results of LASSO regression analysis, a prediction model was established from differentially expressed m6A‐related genes, and the predictive performance of the model was evaluated using ROC curves. Cluster analysis was performed based on differentially expressed m6A‐related genes to evaluate the differences in different m6A modification patterns in terms of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), biological features, and immune features.

Results

There were significant differences in eight m6A‐related genes between NOA samples and healthy controls. The ROC curves showed excellent predictive performance for the diagnostic models constructed with ALKBH5 and FTO. DEGs of two m6A modification subtypes indicated the influence of m6A‐related genes in the biological processes of mitosis and meiosis in NOA patients, and there were significant immune differences between the two subtypes.

Conclusion

The NOA pathological diagnostic models constructed with FTO and ALKBH5 have good predictive ability. We have identified two different m6A modification subtypes, which may help predict sperm retrieval success rate and treatment selection in NOA patients.
Moderate and serious adverse reactions to antimicrobials among hospitalized children: A systematic review
Authors: Ramos Sheila Feitosa , do Sacramento Letícia Gomes , de Silva Rafaella Oliveira Santos , Aires‐Moreno Giulyane Targino , dos Santos Gomes Jonas , Mesquita Alessandra Rezende , Lima Elisangela Costa , de Lyra Divaldo Pereira
Published: July 2024

Aims

This systematic review aimed to investigate the occurrence of moderate and severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to antimicrobials among hospitalized children.

Methods

The PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Lilacs and CINAHL databases were searched in April 2023 to systematically review the published data describing the characteristics of moderate and severe ADRs to antimicrobials among hospitalized children. The search was carried out without date restrictions, up to the search date (April, 2023).

Results

At the end of the selection process, 30 articles met the inclusion criteria. Cutaneous reactions were the primary serious clinical manifestations in most articles (19/30), followed by erythema multiforme (71 cases), Stevens–Johnson syndrome (72 cases), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (22 cases). The main antimicrobials involved in moderate and severe ADRs were penicillins, cephalosporins and sulfonamides. Regarding the primary outcomes, 30% (9/30) of the articles reported deaths, and 46.7% (14/30) of studies reported increased lengths of hospital stay, need for intensive care, and transfer to another hospital. Regarding the main interventions, 10% (3/30) of the articles mentioned greater monitoring, suspension, medication substitution or prescription of specific medications for the symptomatology.

Conclusions

The findings of this review could be used to identify areas for improvement and help health professionals and policymakers develop strategies. In addition, we emphasize the importance of knowing about ADRs so that there is adequate management to avoid undesirable consequences.
Evaluation of adherence to abiraterone therapy in prostate cancer patients based on a population pharmacokinetic model
Authors: Merdita Sara , Šíma Martin , Dvořák Jan , Matějů Martin , Richter Igor , Kozlík Petr , Křížek Tomáš , Královičová Jana , Bosák Jan , Petruželka Luboš , Slanař Ondřej
Published: July 2024

Aims

Abiraterone treatment requires regular drug intake under fasting conditions due to pronounced food effect, which may impact patient adherence. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate adherence to abiraterone treatment in patients with prostate cancer. To achieve this aim, an abiraterone population pharmacokinetic model was developed and patients' adherence has been estimated by comparison of measured levels of abiraterone with population model‐based simulations.

Methods

A total of 1469 abiraterone plasma levels from 83 healthy volunteers collected in a bioequivalence study were analysed using a nonlinear mixed‐effects model. Monte Carlo simulation was used to describe the theoretical distribution of abiraterone pharmacokinetic profiles at a dose of 1000 mg once daily. Adherence of 36 prostate cancer patients treated with abiraterone was then evaluated by comparing the real abiraterone concentration measured in each patient during follow‐up visit with the theoretical distribution of profiles based on simulations. Patients whose abiraterone levels were ˂5th or ˃95th percentile of the distribution of simulated profiles were considered to be non‐adherent.

Results

Based on this evaluation, 13 patients (36%) have been classified as non‐adherent. We observed significant association (P = .0361) between richness of the breakfast and rate of non‐adherence. Adherent patients reported significantly better overall condition in self‐assessments (P = .0384). A trend towards a higher occurrence of adverse effects in non‐adherent patients was observed.

Conclusions

We developed an abiraterone population pharmacokinetic model and proposed an advanced approach to medical adherence evaluation. Due to the need for administration under fasting conditions, abiraterone therapy is associated with a relatively high rate of non‐adherence.
Women's experiences and views of routine assessment for anxiety in pregnancy and after birth: A qualitative study
Authors: Yuill Cassandra , Sinesi Andrea , Meades Rose , Williams Louise R. , Delicate Amy , Cheyne Helen , Maxwell Margaret , Shakespeare Judy , Alderdice Fiona , Leonard Rachael , Ayers Susan ,   The MAP Study Team
Published: July 2024

Background

Anxiety in pregnancy and postnatally is highly prevalent but under‐recognized. To identify perinatal anxiety, assessment tools must be acceptable to women who are pregnant or postnatal.

Methods

A qualitative study of women's experiences of anxiety and mental health assessment during pregnancy and after birth and views on the acceptability of perinatal anxiety assessment. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 41 pregnant or postnatal women. Results were analysed using Sekhon et al.'s acceptability framework, as well as inductive coding of new or emergent themes.

Results

Women's perceptions of routine assessment for perinatal anxiety were generally favourable. Most participants thought assessment was needed and that the benefits outweighed potential negative impacts, such as unnecessary referrals to specialist services. Six themes were identified of: (1) Raising awareness; (2) Improving support; (3) Surveillance and stigma; (4) Gatekeeping; (5) Personalized care and (6) Trust. Assessment was seen as a tool for raising awareness about mental health during the perinatal period and a mechanism for normalizing discussions about mental health more generally. However, views on questionnaire assessments themselves were mixed, with some participants feeling they could become an administrative ‘tick box’ exercise that depersonalizes care and does not provide a space to discuss mental health problems.

Conclusion

Routine assessment of perinatal anxiety was generally viewed as positive and acceptable; however, this was qualified by the extent to which it was informed and personalized as a process. Approaches to assessment should ideally be flexible, tailored across the perinatal period and embedded in continuity of care.
Nine years of patch testing with isocyanates in a clinic of occupational dermatology
Authors: Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Pesonen Maria , Suomela Sari , Suuronen Katri
Published: July 2024

Background

Isocyanates are used as starting materials of polyurethane (PU) products. They are relatively important occupational skin sensitizers.

Objectives

To analyse results of a large isocyanate patch test series of 19 isocyanate test substances and 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (MDA), a marker of 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) hypersensitivity.

Methods

Test files were screened for positive reactions in the isocyanate series. Patients with positive reactions were analysed for occupation, exposure and diagnosis.

Results

In 2010–2019, 53 patients had positive reactions in the series (16% of 338 patients tested). MDA, the well‐established screening substance for MDI allergy, was positive in 30 patients, an in‐house monomeric MDI test substance in 23 patients and 3 different polymeric MDI test substances in 19–21 patients. We diagnosed 16 cases of occupational allergic contact dermatitis (OACD) from MDI including 3 pipe reliners. Hexamethylene‐1,6‐diisocyanate (HDI) oligomers in paint hardeners caused 5 cases of OACD, more cases than 2,4‐toluene diisocyanate (TDI; n = 3) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI; n = 1) put together.

Conclusions

In contrast to previous studies, polymeric MDI test substances were not superior to a monomeric MDI. Pipe reliners may get sensitised not only by epoxy products and acrylates but also by MDI in hardeners of PU pipe coatings. HDI oligomers were the second most important causes of OACD after MDI.