bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Six classes named entity recognition for mapping location of Indonesia natural disasters from twitter data
Authors: Girsang Abba Suganda , Noveta Bima Krisna
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide the location of natural disasters that are poured into maps by extracting Twitter data. The Twitter text is extracted by using named entity recognition (NER) with six classes hierarchy location in Indonesia. Moreover, the tweet then is classified into eight classes of natural disasters using the support vector machine (SVM). Overall, the system is able to classify tweet and mapping the position of the content tweet.

Design/methodology/approach

This research builds a model to map the geolocation of tweet data using NER. This research uses six classes of NER which is based on region Indonesia. This data is then classified into eight classes of natural disasters using the SVM.

Findings

Experiment results demonstrate that the proposed NER with six special classes based on the regional level in Indonesia is able to map the location of the disaster based on data Twitter. The results also show good performance in geocoding such as match rate, match score and match type. Moreover, with SVM, this study can also classify tweet into eight classes of types of natural disasters specifically for the Indonesian region, which originate from the tweets collected.

Research limitations/implications

This study implements in Indonesia region.

Originality/value

(a)NER with six classes is used to create a location classification model with StanfordNER and ArcGIS tools. The use of six location classes is based on the Indonesia regional which has the large area. Hence, it has many levels in its regional location, such as province, district/city, sub-district, village, road and place names. (b) SVM is used to classify natural disasters. Classification of types of natural disasters is divided into eight: floods, earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, hurricanes, forest fires, droughts and volcanic eruptions.
How personal beliefs determine adherence to standards of research ethics: an EFA and path analysis study
Authors: Tripathi Shreyashee , Chaturvedi Ramesh Kumar
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify causes of (un)ethical behaviour in research and how they influence adherence to research ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed and tested a conceptual model that includes mediation and helps to understand the mechanism of adherence to ethical standards of research based on the “social judgment theory” (SJT). In Study 1, the authors conducted an exploratory study using the exploratory factor analysis technique to identify factors responsible for adherence to research ethics. In Study 2, the authors used SJT to provide support for establishing a relationship between key variables.

Findings

Two factors, “Proclivity to Egoism” and “Proclivity to Emotivism”, were identified based on the personal beliefs of researchers. These factors were found to play an important role in determining the tendency towards adherence to standards of research ethics (Belmont Report and COPE). SJT successfully explains the mechanism of adoption of ethical standards. Adherence to Belmont principles was seen to mediate relationship between factors identified and tendency to adhere to COPE.

Originality/value

Majorly, this study is unique as it establishes and guides to incorporate researchers’ point of view in formulating ethical standards and guidelines, apart, from various other important theoretical and societal implications.
Combined wind catchers and side windows for cross ventilation in row houses
Authors: Tantasavasdi Chalermwat , Arttamart Senatanit , Inprom Natthaumporn
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the efficiency of natural ventilation in the bedrooms of typical two-storeyed row houses with newly reconfigured design that incorporate rooftop wind catchers and side windows to create cross ventilation.

Design/methodology/approach

A CFD program was used to assess average air velocity coefficient (Cv) in 32 airflow cases. Parameters include location of openings with respect to wind direction, inlet-to-outlet area ratio (IOR) and opening-to-floor area ratio (OFR).

Findings

The results reveal that indoor air velocities in the cases of air entering wind catchers are generally higher than those in the cases of air entering side windows while air velocities at the openings are the opposite. The IOR of 1:2 provides best results in terms of both velocities of the indoor air and velocities at the openings. Increasing the OFR from 20% to 50% generally improves indoor air velocities and airflow rates.

Originality/value

This study proved that the new solution of combining one-sided wind catchers and side windows can effectively solve the problem of ventilation uniquely existing in the conditions of typical row houses by catching prevailing wind from two opposite directions into multiple rooms. The results are given as non-dimensional air velocities, which can be interpreted with any climatic data, and therefore can be applied to row houses in any locations and climatic conditions. The findings can create a new and efficient design of row houses that benefits building industry.
Shadow banking and non-performing loans: international evidence
Authors: Isayev Mugabil , Farooq Omar
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to document the impact of shadow banking on non-performing loans (NPLs) of publicly listed banks in an international setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the data from 27 countries and various estimation strategies to test the arguments presented in this paper. The sample covers the period between 2002 and 2020.

Findings

The empirical results suggest that banks headquartered in countries with high shadow banking activity have fewer NPLs than otherwise similar banks headquartered in countries with low shadow banking activity. The findings remain qualitatively the same in different sub-samples and after replacing the main variables with their alternate proxies. The paper also shows that this relationship is sensitive to bank-specific characteristics. Moreover, the paper also indicates that the stringency of banking regulations weakens the relationship between shadow banking and NPLs.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s data limitations prevent a detailed year-by-year analysis of NPLs and shadow banking, restricting insights into their evolving dynamics. In addition, the focus on country-level shadow banking data limits the exploration of how multinational banks’ activities in various jurisdictions impact individual banks’ NPLs.

Originality/value

The paper not only documents the effect of shadow banking on NPLs but also shows that the relationship between shadow banking and NPLs weakens as banking regulations become more stringent.
Promoting transparency and accountability towards anti-corruption in pharmaceutical procurement system: does e-procurement play a significant role?
Authors: Mahuwi Leticia , Israel Baraka
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Understanding the interplay between transparency, accountability and e-procurement and their collective contribution to anti-corruption efforts in public procurement is crucial for developing effective strategies and policies. This research seeks to investigate whether e-procurement plays a significant role in enhancing transparency and accountability and subsequently reducing corruption risks in the public pharmaceutical procurement system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a cross-sectional questionnaire survey to gather data from 274 procurement personnel and pharmacists working in 28 government-owned hospitals in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. The collected data were then analysed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and the Hayes PROCESS macro to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

The study findings revealed a negative and significant relationship between transparency and procurement corruption (ß = −0.117, p < 0.008). Moreover, accountability negatively and significantly affects procurement corruption (ß = −0.162, p = 0.006). Furthermore, the findings indicate that, at a high degree of e-procurement system implementation, transparency and accountability have a stronger impact on procurement anti-corruption measures.

Practical implications

Policymakers and decision-makers should implement robust mechanisms that enhance transparency, accountability and anti-corruption efforts. These may include providing clear and accessible information on procurement processes, efficient mechanisms for monitoring and reporting procurement irregularities and continuous improvement of e-procurement systems. By incorporating these measures and nurturing collaboration amongst procurement stakeholders, it becomes possible to foster a procurement environment characterised by integrity, fairness, accountability and reduced corruption.

Originality/value

Whilst previous studies delved into exploring the effect of transparency and accountability on procurement anti-corruption, the novelty of this study is the inclusion of e-procurement as a moderating variable in the relationship between transparency, accountability and anti-corruption. By so doing, this study adds to the existing body of knowledge regarding anti-corruption measures and offers valuable practical insights for policymakers and professionals aiming to enhance transparency, accountability and ethical conduct within the public pharmaceutical procurement system.
The shame–blame complex of parents with cognitively disabled children in Italy
Authors: Scavarda Alice
Published: January 2024

This article aims to advance knowledge related to the concept of the ‘shame–blame complex’ by analysing the accounts and experiences of parents with cognitively disabled children. It draws on 29 interviews with parents of children with Down syndrome and shadowing sessions with one family, carried out in Italy. Results show how the feeling of shame as a consequence of being associated with a disabled child is turned into blame for bad parenting. The sources of this blaming process are twofold: firstly, neoliberalism has disseminated an intensive parenting model based on the imperative of individual responsibility and risk avoidance. Secondly, ableism acts as a network of processes and beliefs that produce a particular kind of self and body as the perfect and complete human being. Participants have been held responsible for their children’s condition because they avoided prenatal screening or continued a pregnancy after receiving a positive result. Consequently, parents’ moral culpability for their children’s diversity and their social marginalisation were enhanced. Although the interviewees resist the shame of being associated with a cognitively disabled child and the blame for bad parenting, they seem unable to escape from the grips of the shame–blame complex. The latter has structural and cultural underpinnings. In an age of ‘neoliberal‐ableism’, this complex is indeed a powerful weapon to erode the rights of families with cognitively disabled members.
Preliminary evaluation of Hyblean Ricotta cheese through seasons, a comparison of the chemical and sensory characteristics
Authors: Mangione Guido , Caccamo Margherita , La Terra Kevin , Marino Giovanni , Difalco Antonio , Azzaro Giuseppe , Belvedere Giovanni , Licitra Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

The present work aimed at a preliminary characterisation of the Hyblean Ricotta cheese manufactured from semi‐extensive dairies in Sicily. A survey on the detection of technological parameters during the production process, as well as the chemical and sensory analysis of raw material and the products, were performed to compare the effect of two different seasons linked with changes in the feeding system (pasture vs indoor). Results indicate that the Ricotta from pasture season showed a significantly higher fat, total solids and protein content and a higher yellow‐colour appearance, bitter taste, vegetable odour and aroma compared to the indoor season samples.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors plus chemotherapy in first‐line endometrial cancer treatment: Still the era of microsatellites?
Authors: Maiorano Mauro Francesco Pio , Messina Carlo , Maiello Evaristo , Cormio Gennaro , Maiorano Brigida Anna
Published: January 2024

Objective

The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus chemotherapy is currently being tested as the first‐line treatment of advanced endometrial. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this combination.

Design

We performed a meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Population and setting

Patients with advanced endometrial carcinoma receiving ICIs plus chemotherapy in the experimental arm, compared with chemotherapy plus placebo in the control arm, were included.

Methods and Outcomes

We evaluated the progression‐free survival (PFS) as an efficacy outcome and the number and grades of adverse events (AEs) for safety. Hazard ratios (HR) for PFS and risk ratios (RR) for AEs, with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated.

Results

1303 patients were treated in the included studies. Adding ICIs to chemotherapy significantly improved PFS in mismatch repair deficient (dMMR—HR 0.29; 95% CI, 0.20–0.42; p < 0.00001) and in mismatch repair proficient (pMMR—HR 0.64; 95% CI, 0.46–0.90; p = 0.01) patients. No difference emerged for all‐grades AEs (RR 1.00; p = 0.98), but the risk of ≥G3 AEs was increased in the ICIs + chemotherapy group (RR 1.22; 95% CI, 1.11–1.34; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Adding ICIs to chemotherapy significantly improves PFS in first‐line endometrial cancer, regardless of MMR status.
Using the concept of food as medicine to mitigate inflammation in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Alvarenga Livia , Reis Drielly C. M. V. , Kemp Julie Ann , Teixeira Karla Thais Resende , Fouque Denis , Mafra Denise
Published: January 2024

The most common kidney replacement therapy (KRT) worldwide is hemodialysis (HD), and only 5%–10% of patients are prescribed peritoneal dialysis (PD) as KRT. Despite PD being a different method, these patients also present particular complications, such as oxidative stress, gut dysbiosis, premature aging, and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to an inflammation process and high cardiovascular mortality risk. Although recent studies have reported nutritional strategies in patients undergoing HD with attempts to mitigate these complications, more information must be needed for PD patients. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent studies of nutritional intervention to mitigate inflammation in PD patients.
Lung function trajectories in a cohort of patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma on mepolizumab, omalizumab, or dupilumab
Authors: Nopsopon Tanawin , Barrett Nora A. , Phipatanakul Wanda , Laidlaw Tanya M. , Weiss Scott T. , Akenroye Ayobami
Published: January 2024

Background

Lung function is an independent predictor of mortality. We evaluated the lung function trajectories of a cohort of patients with asthma receiving biologic therapy.

Methods

We identified 229 monoclonal antibody‐naïve adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma who initiated omalizumab, mepolizumab, or dupilumab between 2010 and 2022 in a large healthcare system in Boston, MA. Generalized additive mixed models were used to estimate the lung function trajectories during the 156 weeks following biologic initiation. Response was defined as an improvement in FEV1 or a decrease of ≤0.5% per year. The Kaplan–Meier estimator was used to assess time to no additional improvement in FEV1 in responders. All models were adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, baseline exacerbation rate, and baseline blood eosinophil count.

Results

Eighty‐eight patients initiated mepolizumab, 76 omalizumab, and 65 dupilumab. Baseline eosinophil count was highest in the mepolizumab group (405 cells/mcL) and lowest for omalizumab (250 cells/mcL). Both FEV1 and FVC improved in the mepolizumab group (FEV1 + 20 mL/year; FVC +43 mL/year). For omalizumab, there was an initial improvement in the first year followed by decline with an overall FEV1 loss of −44 mL/year and FVC −32 mL/year. For dupilumab, both FEV1 (+61 mL/year) and FVC (+74 mL/year) improved over time. Fifty percent of the mepolizumab group, 58% omalizumab, and 72% of dupilumab were responders. The median time to no additional FEV1 improvement in responders was 24 weeks for omalizumab, 48 weeks for mepolizumab, and 57 weeks for dupilumab.

Conclusion

In this clinical cohort, mepolizumab, omalizumab, and dupilumab had beneficial effects on FEV1 and FVC with distinct post‐initiation trajectories.
Furosemide attenuates tubulointerstitial injury and allows functional testing of porcine kidneys during normothermic machine perfusion
Authors: Ogurlu Baran , Hamelink Tim L. , Lantinga Veerle A. , Leuvenink Henri G. D. , Pool Merel B. F. , Moers Cyril
Published: January 2024

Background

Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) is a promising pretransplant kidney quality assessment platform, but it remains crucial to increase its diagnostic potential while ensuring minimal additional injury to the already damaged kidney. Interventions that alter tubular transport can influence renal function and injury during perfusion. This study aimed to determine whether furosemide and desmopressin affect renal function and injury during NMP.

Methods

Eighteen porcine kidneys (n = 6 per group) were subjected to 30 min of warm ischemia and 4 h of oxygenated hypothermic perfusion before being subjected to 6 h of NMP. Each organ was randomized to receive no drug, furosemide (750 mg), or desmopressin (16 μg) during NMP.

Results

Compared with the other groups, the addition of furosemide resulted in significantly increased urine output, fractional excretion of sodium and potassium, and urea clearance during NMP. Urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin levels decreased significantly with furosemide supplementation compared with the other groups. The addition of desmopressin did not result in any significantly different outcome measurements compared with the control group.

Conclusions

This study showed that the addition of furosemide affected renal function while attenuating tubulointerstitial injury during NMP. Therefore, furosemide supplementation may provide renal protection and serve as a functional test for pretransplant kidney viability assessment during NMP.
Enteral administration of crushed rilpivirine in a patient with HIV: A case report
Authors: Ragonnet Gwendoline , Laroche Hélène , Néant Nadège , Benkouiten Samir , Dos Santos Maeva Cacilda , Faucher‐Zaegel Olivia , Solas Caroline , Bregigeon‐Ronot Sylvie
Published: January 2024

Antiretroviral therapy administration is challenging in patients with HIV requiring enteral nutrition. There are limited pharmacokinetic data available regarding the absorption of crushed rilpivirine (RPV) and its impact on drug bioavailability, plasma concentrations and, consequently, the efficacy of treatment. We present the case of a 60‐year‐old woman with HIV diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma who needed enteral administration of antiretroviral therapy following the insertion of a gastrotomy tube in September 2018. Initially, the patient was treated with a daily dose of RPV 25 mg, dolutegravir 50 mg and emtricitabine 200 mg. The treatment was later intensified with darunavir boosted with ritonavir. RPV and dolutegravir were crushed, dissolved in water and administered via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube. Therapeutic drug and viral load monitoring determined the adequacy of enteral antiretroviral dosing. RPV plasma concentrations remained within the expected therapeutic range of 43–117 ng/mL, with only 1 below the currently used 50 ng/mL efficacy threshold. After the treatment intensification with darunavir boosted with ritonavir, the patient achieved an undetectable viral load. While we observed satisfactory RPV plasma concentrations, it is essential to maintain strict monitoring of administration method, plasma concentrations and virological responses when initiating treatment with crushed RPV. Hence, additional pharmacokinetic data are necessary to ensure the effective enteral administration of RPV and to establish the best antiretroviral dosing regimens.
Associations between Chinese visceral adiposity index and risks of all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Wang Chunqi , Lv Deliang , Chen Bowang , Wu Yi , Wu Xiaobing , Yang Yang , Cui Jianlan , Xu Wei , Yang Hao , Song Lijuan , He Wenyan , Zhang Yan , Guan Hongyun , Xie Fengzhu , Xie Wei , Shang Qinggang , Zhao Zhiguang , Li Xi
Published: January 2024

Aim

To determine the associations between the Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI) and the risks of all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality.

Materials and Methods

A total of 3 916 214 Chinese adults were enrolled in a nationwide population cohort covering all 31 provinces of mainland China. The CVAI was calculated based on age, body mass index, waist circumference, and triglyceride and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. We used a Cox proportional hazards regression model to determine the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of mortality associated with different CVAI levels.

Results

The median follow‐up duration was 3.8 years. A total of 86 158 deaths (34 867 cardiovascular disease [CVD] deaths, 29 884 cancer deaths, and 21 407 deaths due to other causes) were identified. In general, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, a U‐shaped relationship between CVAI and all‐cause mortality was observed by restricted cubic spline (RCS). Compared with participants in CVAI quartile 1, those in CVAI quartile 4 had a 23.0% (95% CI 20.0%–25.0%) lower risk of cancer death, but a 23.0% (95% CI 19.0–27.0) higher risk of CVD death. In subgroup analysis, a J‐shaped and inverted U‐shaped relationship for all‐cause mortality and cancer mortality was observed in the group aged < 60 years.

Conclusions

The CVAI, an accessible indicator reflecting visceral obesity among Chinese adults, has predictive value for all‐cause, CVD, and cancer mortality risks. Moreover, the CVAI carries significance in the field of health economics and secondary prevention. In the future, it could be used for early screening purposes.
Impact of 2021 European Academy of Neurology/Peripheral Nerve Society diagnostic criteria on diagnosis and therapy of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy variants
Authors: De Lorenzo Alberto , Liberatore Giuseppe , Doneddu Pietro Emiliano , Manganelli Fiore , Cocito Dario , Briani Chiara , Fazio Raffaella , Mazzeo Anna , Schenone Angelo , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Cosentino Giuseppe , Marfia Girolama Alessandra , Benedetti Luana , Carpo Marinella , Filosto Massimiliano , Antonini Giovanni , Clerici Angelo Maurizio , Luigetti Marco , Matà Sabrina , Rosso Tiziana , Lucchetta Marta , Siciliano Gabriele , Lauria Pinter Giuseppe , Cavaletti Guido , Inghilleri Maurizio , Cantisani Teresa , Notturno Francesca , Ricciardi Dario , Habetswallner Francesco , Spina Emanuele , Peci Erdita , Salvalaggio Alessandro , Falzone Yuri , Strano Camilla , Gentile Luca , Vegezzi Elisa , Mataluni Giorgia , Cotti Piccinelli Stefano , Leonardi Luca , Romano Angela , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo ,   Italian CIDP Database Study Group
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

There are different criteria for the diagnosis of different variants of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). The 2021 European Academy of Neurology/Peripheral Nerve Society (EAN/PNS) guidelines provide specific clinical criteria for each CIDP variant even if their therapeutical impact has not been investigated.

Methods

We applied the clinical criteria for CIDP variants of the 2021 EAN/PNS guidelines to 369 patients included in the Italian CIDP database who fulfilled the 2021 EAN/PNS electrodiagnostic criteria for CIDP.

Results

According to the 2021 EAN/PNS clinical criteria, 245 patients achieved a clinical diagnosis of typical CIDP or CIDP variant (66%). We identified 106 patients with typical CIDP (29%), 62 distal CIDP (17%), 28 multifocal or focal CIDP (7%), four sensory CIDP (1%), 27 sensory‐predominant CIDP (7%), 10 motor CIDP (3%), and eight motor‐predominant CIDP (2%). Patients with multifocal, distal, and sensory CIDP had milder impairment and symptoms. Patients with multifocal CIDP had less frequently reduced conduction velocity and prolonged F‐wave latency and had lower levels of cerebrospinal fluid protein. Patients with distal CIDP more frequently had reduced distal compound muscle action potentials. Patients with motor CIDP did not improve after steroid therapy, whereas those with motor‐predominant CIDP did. None of the patients with sensory CIDP responded to steroids, whereas most of those with sensory‐predominant CIDP did.

Conclusions

The 2021 EAN/PNS criteria for CIDP allow a better characterization of CIDP variants, permitting their distinction from typical CIDP and more appropriate treatment for patients.
The Geographical Analysis of Megacities Through Changes in Their Individual Urban Objects
Authors: Fan Xiangning , Blackburn George Alan , Whyatt James Duncan , Atkinson Peter Michael
Published: January 2024

This research utilized global coverage, annual, high‐quality land cover time‐series data to explore the urban growth process in the core area, and in several buffer zones, of Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Tokyo. We developed a conceptual model in which growth is characterized at the per‐object level by four active growth events: introduction, establishment, dispersal, and coalescence, with a fifth inactivity event, stability. We developed a rule‐base which allowed the direct measurement of establishment, dispersal and coalescence from observed inter‐annual changes in the urban objects over time. By aggregating the object‐level events to the landscape level we showed that these three events generally followed a synchronous temporal trend in terms of magnitude within the core area and within each buffer zone. There was no evidence for a logical sequence of events through time. The identified events dominated alternately over time, although synchronicity in magnitude far outweighed any differences in proportion between them. This points to a single underlying urbanization process: urban growth with a specific dynamic rate. Interestingly, synchronicity was not generally observed between the core and buffer zones. This proposed object‐based method provides insights into the underlying urban growth process and could be used to build new urban growth models.
Stereoelectroencephalography: a review of complications and outcomes in a new Australian centre
Authors: Murray‐Douglass Alexander , Papacostas Jason , Ovington Anne , Wensley Isaac , Campbell Robert , Gillinder Lisa
Published: January 2024

Background

Surgical management of refractory focal epilepsy requires preoperative localisation of the epileptogenic zone (EZ). To augment noninvasive studies, stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) is being increasingly adopted as a form of intracranial monitoring.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the rate of complications for patients undergoing SEEG and to report the success of SEEG with regard to EZ detection and seizure outcome following definitive surgery.

Methods

A retrospective cohort design investigated all cases of SEEG at our institution. Surgical, anaesthetic and medical complications with subsequent epilepsy surgery and seizure outcome data were extracted from medical records. Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between both the number of electrodes per patient and the duration of SEEG recording with the rate of complications.

Results

Sixty‐four patients with 66 implantations were included. Headache was the most common complication (n = 54, 82%). There were no major surgical or medical complications. Two anaesthetic complications occurred. EZ localisation was successful in 63 cases (95%). Curative intent surgery was performed in 39 patients (59%) and 23 patients achieved an Engel class I outcome (59% of those undergoing surgery). The number of electrodes and duration of recording were not associated with complications.

Conclusions

No patients in our series experienced major surgical or medical complications and we have highlighted the challenges associated with neuroanaesthesia in SEEG. Our complication rates and seizure outcomes are equivalent to published literature indicating that this technique can be successfully established in newer centres using careful case selection. Standardised reporting of SEEG complications should be adopted.
Causes for 30‐day readmissions and accuracy of the LACE index in regional Victoria, Australia
Authors: Dreyer Reinhardt , Gome James
Published: January 2024

Background

Clinicians and funders continue to search for ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality of care. Ongoing research should focus on innovative care models that identify patients at high‐risk for hospitalisation and thereby reduce healthcare costs.

Aims and Objectives

This study examined readmission rates, comorbidity profiles and the performance of the LACEi (Length of stay, Acuity of admission, Charlson Comorbidity Index, ED admissions in the previous 6 months index) to predict the risk of 30‐day readmissions in a regional population. Furthermore, we tested a novel clinician‐orientated classification for the causes of 30‐day readmissions.

Design

Using a nested case–control design, data were extracted from administrative health records using 30‐day readmission status as the outcome. We defined cases as discharges within 30 days before readmission and controls without a discharge within 30 days before admission between 1 July 2020 and 30 June 2022.

Setting

The study was conducted at South West Healthcare in Victoria, Australia.

Participants

All adult medical patients were discharged alive from the facility. We excluded planned readmissions, surgical and obstetric admissions, dialysis, transfers to alternative facilities and discharges against medical advice.

Main Outcome Measures

Thirty‐day readmission rate, comorbidity profile for all admissions, LACEi for all admissions, the performance of the LACEi in our setting and the causes leading to readmission using a clinician‐orientated classification tool.

Results

Comorbidity burden, male sex and age > 65 years were associated with increased readmission risk but not length of stay. The LACEi demonstrated modest predictive ability to identify high‐risk patients for readmissions (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.59). Additional variables were needed to increase accuracy. The novel classification identified 42% of readmissions as potentially avoidable.

Conclusion

Our study identified comorbidity burden, male sex and age ≥ 65 years as critical indicators for readmission risk. Although the LACEi showed moderate predictive ability, additional variables were needed for increased accuracy. Over 40% of readmissions were potentially avoidable, and nearly two thirds occurred within 14 days of discharge from the hospital.
Immunotherapeutic prospects and progress in bladder cancer
Authors: Liu Junwei , Gao Yue , Song Chao , Liao Wenbiao , Meng Lingchao , Yang Sixing , Xiong Yunhe
Published: January 2024

Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours of the urogenital system, with high morbidity and mortality. In most cases, surgery is considered the first choice of treatment, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, the 5‐year recurrence rate is still as high as 65% in patients with non‐invasive or in situ tumours and up to 73% in patients with slightly more advanced disease at initial diagnosis. Various treatment methods for bladder cancer have been developed, and hundreds of new immunotherapies are being tested. To date, only a small percentage of people have had success with new treatments, though studies have suggested that the combination of immunotherapy with other therapies improves treatment efficiency and positive outcomes for individuals, with great hopes for the future. In this article, we summarize the origins, therapeutic mechanisms and current status of research on immunotherapeutic agents for bladder cancer.
Association between surgery and rate of incident dementia in older adults: A population‐based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Reich Krista M. , Gill Sudeep S. , Eckenhoff Roderic , Berger Miles , Austin Peter C. , Rochon Paula A. , Nguyen Paul , Goodarzi Zahra , Seitz Dallas P.
Published: January 2024

Background

The risk of incident dementia after surgery in older adults is unclear. The study objective was to examine the rate of incident dementia among older adults after elective surgery compared with a matched nonsurgical control group.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based, propensity‐matched retrospective cohort study using data from linked administrative databases in Ontario, Canada. All community‐dwelling individuals aged 66 years and older who underwent one of five major elective surgeries between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2011 were included. Each surgical patient was matched 1:1 on surgical specialty of the surgeon at consultation, age, sex, fiscal year of entry, and propensity score with a patient who attended an outpatient visit with a surgeon of the same surgical specialty but did not undergo surgery. Patients were followed for up to 5 years after cohort entry for the occurrence of a new dementia diagnosis, defined from administrative data. Cause‐specific hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the association between surgery and the hazard of incident dementia. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

A total of 27,878 individuals (13,939 matched pairs) were included in the analysis. A total of 640 (4.6%) individuals in the surgical group and 965 (6.9%) individuals in the control group developed dementia over the 5‐year follow‐up period. Individuals who underwent surgery had a reduced rate of incident dementia compared with their matched nonsurgical controls (HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.80–0.97; p = 0.01). This association was persistent in most subgroups and after sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Elective surgery did not increase the rate of incident dementia when compared with matched nonsurgical controls. This could be an important consideration for patients and surgeons when elective surgery is considered.
Clinicopathological characteristics of odontogenic carcinosarcoma: A systematic review
Authors: da Silveira Karoline Gomes , de Almeida Souto Montenegro Luiza , de Albuquerque Diana Santana , do Lago Carlos Augusto Pereira , Laureano Filho José Rodrigues , de Vasconcellos Ricardo José Holanda
Published: January 2024

Background

The aim of the present systematic review was to summarize evidence on odontogenic carcinosarcoma, analyzing clinical, epidemiological, imaging, histopathological, immunohistochemical, therapeutic, and prognostic features of this tumor.

Materials and Methods

This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Searches were performed in the Ovid MEDLINE (Wolters Kluwer), PubMed (National Library of Medicine), Web of Science (Thomson Reuters), Scopus (Elsevier), and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information) databases, without publication date or language restrictions. Case reports or case series of OCS reporting clinical, radiological, and histopathological data that confirmed the diagnosis were selected. The Joanna Briggs Institute—University of Adelaide tool was used for critical appraisal of the included articles.

Results

Odontogenic carcinosarcoma is a rare, aggressive tumor associated with high mortality; however, the metastasis rate is low. The tumor has a male predilection. The mean patient age is 40 years, but there is no predilection for age. The left posterior mandible is the most affected site, but no specific radiographic features have been reported.

Conclusion

Given its rarity, dentists, oral‐maxillofacial surgeons, and physicians need to be aware of odontogenic carcinosarcoma in order to increase the diagnostic potential, preventing delays in diagnosis and treatment and thus contributing to lower morbidity of the tumor.
DNA content and clinicopathological features aid in distinguishing ameloblastic carcinoma from ameloblastoma
Authors: Penafort Paulo Victor Mendes , Rocha André Caroli , Mariano Fernanda Viviane , dos Santos Jean Nunes , Oliveira Márcio Campos , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Sperandio Marcelo
Published: January 2024

Background

Ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma are epithelial odontogenic tumors that can be morphologically similar. In the present study, we evaluated the DNA content and Ki‐67 index in the two tumors.

Methods

The paraffin blocks of the tumors were selected to obtain sections for the immunohistochemical reactions and preparation of the cell suspension for acquisition in a flow cytometer. The Random Forest package of the R software was used to verify the contribution of each variable to classify lesions into ameloblastoma or ameloblastic carcinoma.

Results

Thirty‐two ameloblastoma and five ameloblastic carcinoma were included in the study. In our sample, we did not find statistically significant differences in Ki‐67 labeling rates. A higher fraction of cells in 2c (G1) was correlated with the diagnosis of ameloblastoma, whereas higher rates of 5c‐exceeding rate (5cER) were correlated with ameloblastic carcinoma. The Random Forest model highlighted histopathological findings and parameters of DNA ploidy study as important features for distinguishing ameloblastoma from ameloblastic carcinoma.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the parameters of the DNA ploidy study can be ancillary tools in the classification of ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma.
Real‐world safety and effectiveness of tenofovir alafenamide for 144 weeks in Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Hige Shuhei , Aoki Kouji , Nakamoto Daisuke , Flaherty John F. , Botros Irina , Mizutani Hajime , Ishizaki Akinobu , Konishi Hiroki , Yuan Jason , Jinushi Masahisa , Ng Leslie J.
Published: January 2024

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), a prodrug of tenofovir, delivers high levels of active drug to hepatocytes and is given in a lower dose than tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). TAF reduces viral replication in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) similar to TDF and has shown a lower risk of the renal and bone toxicities associated with TDF use. This post‐marketing surveillance study examined the safety and effectiveness of TAF in treatment‐naïve and ‐experienced CHB patients who received TAF for 144 weeks at real‐world clinical sites in Japan. Safety assessments included the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), renal and bone events, and changes in selected laboratory parameters. Effectiveness was based on the proportion of patients with HBV DNA levels below the lower limit of quantitation or <29 IU/mL. This analysis included 580 patients; 18.4% of whom were treatment‐naïve. The cumulative incidence of ADRs was 0.21 per 100 person‐months, and the incidence of serious ADRs was 0.01 (95% CI, 0.00–0.04) per 100 person‐months. There were no ADRs of declines in estimated glomerular filtration rates, renal failure or proximal tubulopathy. The most common ADR was hypophosphataemia in seven (1.2%) patients. Two (0.4%) patients each had decreased blood phosphorus, bone mineral density decreased, dizziness and alopecia. Overall, the proportion of virologically suppressed patients increased from 68.8% at baseline to 97.5% at Week 144. These results confirm the real‐world safety and effectiveness of TAF in Japanese patients with CHB and are consistent with the findings of other evaluations of the safety and efficacy of TAF in CHB.
Pictorial syntax
Authors: Lande Kevin J.
Published: January 2024

It is commonly assumed that images, whether in the world or in the head, do not have a privileged analysis into constituent parts. They are thought to lack the sort of syntactic structure necessary for representing complex contents and entering into sophisticated patterns of inference. I reject this assumption. “Image grammars” are models in computer vision that articulate systematic principles governing the form and content of images. These models are empirically credible and can be construed as literal grammars for images. Images can have rich syntactic structure, though of a markedly different form than sentences in language.
Efficacy of topical trichloroacetic acid 100% either alone or combined with topical tioconazole 28% versus systemic itraconazole in the treatment of onychomycosis
Authors: Ibrahim Al‐shimaa M. , Ibrahim Nermeen Sabry , Elgharabawy Eman S. , Morsi Hala Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background

Treatment of onychomycosis is still challenging and warrants the development of new treatment strategies. Different trials were conducted to increase the penetration and efficacy of topical antifungals aiming at finding an alternative treatment especially when systemic antifungals are contraindicated.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 100% either alone or combined with topical tioconazole 28% versus itraconazole pulse therapy in the treatment of onychomycosis.

Patients/Methods

Forty‐five patients with onychomycosis were divided into three groups: group (A) treated by topical TCA 100% for 12 sessions, group (B) treated by TCA 100% for 12 sessions combined with topical tioconazole 28% for 18 weeks and group (C) treated by itraconazole (400 mg/day for 1 week/month for 4 months).

Results

TCA 100% combined with topical tioconazole 28% showed the highest therapeutic response; however, the difference between the groups was statistically insignificant. Mycological cure (negative culture) was reported in 66.7% of group B versus 60% of group A and 40% of group C at the 20 week.

Conclusions

TCA 100% is an effective and safe treatment option for onychomycosis especially when combined with antifungals. This modality is promising in the treatment of onychomycosis especially with the increased resistance to different antifungals.
Temporal trends in antifungal susceptibility of Cryptococcus neoformans isolates from a reference laboratory in the United States, 2011–2021
Authors: Ordaya Eloy E. , Abu Saleh Omar M. , Vergidis Paschalis , Deml Sharon M. , Wengenack Nancy L. , Fida Madiha
Published: January 2024

Background

There are no established clinical breakpoints for antifungal agents against Cryptococcus species; however, epidemiological cut‐off values can help distinguish wild‐type (WT) isolates without any acquired resistance from non‐WT strains, which may harbour resistance mechanisms.

Patients/Methods

We describe the trends of antifungal MICs and percentages of WT C. neoformans species complex (CNSC) isolates processed in our reference laboratory from November 2011 to June 2021. There were only nine isolates in 2011, thus, we included them in the year 2012 for data analysis. Clinical data is also described when available.

Results

We identified 632 CNSC, the majority collected from blood (n = 301), cerebrospinal fluid (n = 230), and respiratory (n = 71) sources. The overall percentage of WT isolates for amphotericin B (AMB), 5‐flucytosine, and fluconazole was 77%, 98%, and 91%, respectively. We noticed a statistically significant change in the percentage of AMB WT isolates over the years, with 98% of isolates being WT in 2012 compared to 79% in 2021 (p < .01). A similar change was not observed for other antifungal agents. Clinical data was available for 36 patients, primarily non‐HIV immunocompromised patients with disseminated cryptococcosis. There were no statistically significant differences in the clinical characteristics and outcomes between patients with WT (58.3%) versus non‐WT (41.7%) isolates, but we noticed higher mortality in patients infected with an AMB non‐WT CNSC isolate.

Conclusions

We observed an increase in the percentage of AMB non‐WT CNSC isolates in the past decade. The clinical implications of this finding warrant further evaluation in larger studies.
MdASMT9‐mediated melatonin biosynthesis enhances basal thermotolerance in apple plants
Authors: Gao Tengteng , Zhang Danni , Shen Wentao , Xu Shuo , Jia Xumei , Liu Xiaomin , Tan Kexin , Zhou Yi , Zhang Zhijun , Ma Fengwang , Li Chao
Published: January 2024

High temperatures negatively impact the yield and quality of fruit crops. Exogenous melatonin (MT) application has been shown to enhance heat tolerance, but the response of endogenous MT to heat stress, particularly in perennial fruit trees, remains unclear. The present study investigated the effects of high temperatures on transgenic apple plants overexpressing the MT biosynthesis gene N‐acetylserotonin methyltransferase 9 (MdASMT9). Endogenous MT protected transgenic plants from heat stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), and protecting the chloroplasts from damage. Application of MT and overexpression of MdASMT9 also reduced abscisic acid accumulation through promoting MdWRKY33‐mediated transcriptional inhibition of MdNCED1 and MdNCED3, thus inducing stomatal opening for better heat dissipation. Furthermore, MT‐enhanced autophagic activity through promoting MdWRKY33‐mediated transcriptional enhancement of MdATG18a under heat stress. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of endogenous MT and its role in improving basal thermotolerance in perennial fruit trees.
Life under the snow: A year‐round transcriptome analysis of Antarctic mosses in natural habitats provides insight into the molecular adaptation of plants under extreme environment
Authors: Yu Jihyeon , Lee Hyoungseok , Cho Sung Mi , Lee Yelim , Kim Dockyu , Hong Soon Gyu , Park Sang‐Jong , Kim Sang‐Gyu , Jin Hongshi , Lee Jungeun
Published: January 2024

Mosses are vital components of ecosystems, exhibiting remarkable adaptability across diverse habitats from deserts to polar ice caps. Sanionia uncinata (Hedw.) Loeske, a dominant Antarctic moss survives extreme environmental condition through perennial lifecycles involving growth and dormancy alternation. This study explores genetic controls and molecular mechanisms enabling S. uncinata to cope with seasonality of the Antarctic environment. We analysed the seasonal transcriptome dynamics of S. uncinata collected monthly from February 2015 to January 2016 in King George Island, Antarctica. Findings indicate that genes involved in plant growth were predominantly upregulated in Antarctic summer, while those associated with protein synthesis and cell cycle showed marked expression during the winter‐to‐summer transition. Genes implicated in cellular stress and abscisic acid signalling were highly expressed in winter. Further, validation included a comparison of the Antarctic field transcriptome data with controlled environment simulation of Antarctic summer and winter temperatures, which revealed consistent gene expression patterns in both datasets. This proposes a seasonal gene regulatory model of S. uncinate to understand moss adaptation to extreme environments. Additionally, this data set is a valuable resource for predicting genetic responses to climatic fluctuations, enhancing our knowledge of Antarctic flora's resilience to global climate change.