bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic Properties of MgAl2O4 Spinel at High Temperatures and High Pressures
Authors: Qiu Wuxueying , Su Chang , Liu Yonggang , Song Wei
Published: January 2023

Thermodynamic properties of MgAl2O4 spinel are significant in understanding the phase relations of the Earth’s crust and upper mantle, but available values from experimental measurements are limited at ambient pressure conditions to date. Based on an iterative numerical approach and experimental data from the literature, we determined the self-consistent unit-cell volume, elastic moduli, and, particularly, thermodynamic properties, including thermal expansion, heat capacity, entropy, and the Grüneisen parameter of MgAl2O4 spinel over a wide temperature and pressure range. The obtained thermal expansion, heat capacity, entropy, and Grüneisen parameter of MgAl2O4 spinel show nonlinearly and are negatively correlated with pressure. Most importantly, we found that the pressure effects on thermal expansion and entropy increase with temperature, whereas the pressure effect on the heat capacity and the Grüneisen parameter decreases to a minimum at ~400 K and ~700 K, respectively, then increases or remains almost constant above this temperature, respectively.
Feasibility of Implementation and the Impact of a Digital Prehabilitation Service in Patients Undergoing Treatment for Oesophago-Gastric Cancer
Authors: Moorthy Krishna , Halliday Laura J. , Noor Nigel , Peters Christopher J , Wynter-Blyth Venetia , Urch Catherine E
Published: January 2023

Background: Home-based and supervised prehabilitation programmes are shown to have a positive impact on outcomes in patients with oesophago-gastric (OG) cancer. The primary aim of this study was to establish the feasibility of delivering a digital prehabilitation service. Methods: Patients undergoing treatment for OG cancer with curative intent were recruited into the study. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients were offered a digital prehabilitation service. Following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, patients were also offered both a hybrid clinic-based in-person service and a digital service. Implementation and clinical metrics from the two prehabilitation models were compared. Results: 31 of 41 patients accepted the digital service (75%). Of the people who started the digital programme, 3 dropped out (10%). Compliance with the weekly touchpoints was 86%, and the median length of programme was 12 weeks. Twenty-six patients enrolled in the in-person service. Two patients dropped out (10%). Average compliance to weekly touchpoints was 71%, and the median length of programme was 10 weeks. In the digital group, sit to stand (STS) increased from 14.5 (IQR 10.5–15.5) to 16 (IQR 16–22); p = 0.02. Median heart rate recovery (HRR) increased from 10.5 (IQR 7.5–14) to 15.5 (IQR 11–20) bpm; p = 0.24. There was a significant drop in distress (median 3 (IQR 0–5) to 1 (IQR 0–2); p = 0.04) and a small drop in anxiety (median 3 (0–5) to 2 (0–3); p = 0.22). There was no difference in the postoperative complication rate and length of hospital stay between the two groups. Discussion: This study has shown that digital prehabilitation can be delivered effectively to patients with OG cancer, with high engagement and retention rates. We observed improvements in some physical and psychological parameters with the digital service, with comparable clinical outcomes to the in-person service.
Response of an HER2-Mutated NSCLC Patient to Trastuzumab Deruxtecan and Monitoring of Plasma ctDNA Levels by Liquid Biopsy
Authors: Falk Markus , Willing Eva , Schmidt Stefanie , Schatz Stefanie , Galster Marco , Tiemann Markus , Ficker Joachim H. , Brueckl Wolfgang M.
Published: January 2023

HER2-targeted therapy is currently the subject of several studies in lung cancer and other solid tumors using either tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) or targeted-antibody–drug conjugates. We describe a 61-year-old female patient with HER2 mutated adenocarcinoma of the lungs who received chemo-immunotherapy, followed by trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) and third-line Ramucirumab/Docetaxel at disease progression. Plasma ctDNA monitoring was obtained at 12 timepoints during therapy and revealed HER2 mutation allele frequencies that corresponded to the clinical course of disease. HER2-targeted T-DXd therapy resulted in a profound clinical response and may be an option for NSCLC patients carrying an activated HER2 mutation. Longitudinal liquid biopsy quantification of the underlying driver alteration can serve as a powerful diagnostic tool to monitor course of therapy.
Linked Color Imaging for Stomach
Authors: Umegaki Eiji , Misawa Hiraku , Handa Osamu , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Shiotani Akiko
Published: January 2023

Image-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) plays an important role in the detection and further examination of gastritis and early gastric cancer (EGC). Linked color imaging (LCI) is also useful for detecting and evaluating gastritis, gastric intestinal metaplasia as a pre-cancerous lesion, and EGC. LCI provides a clear excellent endoscopic view of the atrophic border and the demarcation line under various conditions of gastritis. We could recognize gastritis as the lesions of the diffuse redness to purple color area with LCI. On the other hand, EGCs are recognized as the lesions of the orange-red, orange, or orange-white color area in the lesion of the purple color area, which is the surround atrophic mucosa with LCI. With further prospective randomized studies, we will be able to evaluate the diagnosis ability for EGC by IEE, and it will be necessary to evaluate the role of WLI/IEE and the additional effects of the diagnostic ability by adding IEE to WLI in future.
Urine Biomarkers in the Management of Adult Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Koukourikis Periklis , Papaioannou Maria , Papanikolaou Dimitrios , Apostolidis Apostolos
Published: January 2023

Background: Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction requires lifelong surveillance and management for the perseveration of patients’ quality of life and the prevention of significant morbidity and mortality. Urine biomarkers are an attractive noninvasive method of surveillance for these patients. The aim of this systematic review is to search for and critically appraise studies that investigate the clinical usefulness of urine biomarkers in the management of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in adults. Methods: This review was conducted according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Search strategy included PubMed, CENTRAL, and Scopus (until October 2022). Studies investigating potential urine biomarkers for the management of adults with NLUTD were included. Results: Fifteen studies fulfilled the criteria. To date, a variety of different urine molecules have been investigated for the diagnosis and management of neurogenic overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity (nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin F2α, transformation growth factor β-1, tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-2, substance P, microRNA), diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (exosomal vitronectin), urinary tract infection (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, interleukin 6) and bladder cancer screening (cytology, BTA stat, survivin) in neurological patients. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to specify the utility of each molecule in the management algorithm of adult NLUTD.
Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy within 6 Hours Following Bowel Preparation with Polyethylene Glycol Shows Improved Small Bowel Visibility
Authors: Choi Chang Wan , Lee So Jung , Hong Sung Noh , Kim Eun Ran , Chang Dong Kyung , Kim Young-Ho , Lim Yun Jeong , Shim Ki-Nam , Lee Hyun-Seok
Published: January 2023

Although bowel preparation influences small bowel visibility for small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE), the optimal timing for bowel preparation has not been established yet. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the optimal timing of polyethylene glycol (PEG) for small bowel preparation before SBCE. This multicenter prospective observational study was conducted on patients who underwent SBCE following bowel preparation with polyethylene glycol (PEG). Patients were categorized into three groups according to the time used for completing PEG ingestion: group A, within 6 h; group B, 6–12 h; and group C, over 12 h. The percentage of unclean segment in small bowel (unclean image duration / small bowel transit time × 100) and small bowel visibility quality (SBVQ) were evaluated according to the time interval between the last ingestion of PEG and swallowing of small bowel capsule endoscope. A total of 90 patients were enrolled and categorized into group A (n = 40), group B (n = 27), and group C (n = 23). The percentage of unclean segment in the entire small bowel increased gradually from group A to C (6.6 ± 7.6% in group A, 11.3 ± 11.8% in group B, and 16.2 ± 10.7% in group C, p = 0.001), especially in the distal small bowel (11.4 ± 13.6% in group A, 20.7 ± 18.7% in group B, and 29.5 ± 16.4% in group C, p < 0.001). The proportion of patients with adequate SBVQ in group A was significantly (p < 0.001) higher (30/40, 75.0%) than that in group B (17/27, 63.0%) or group C (5/23, 21.7%). In multivariate analysis, group A was associated with an increased likelihood of adequate SBVQ compared with group C (odds ratio [OR]: 13.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.53–48.30, p < 0.001). Completing PEG ingestion within 6 h prior to SBCE could enhance small bowel visibility.
Molecular Biomarkers in Perthes Disease: A Review
Authors: Spasovski Vesna , Srzentić Dražilov Sanja , Nikčević Gordana , Baščarević Zoran , Stojiljković Maja , Pavlović Sonja , Spasovski Duško
Published: January 2023

Background: Perthes disease is a juvenile form of osteonecrosis of the femoral head that affects children under the age of 15. One hundred years after its discovery, some light has been shed on its etiology and the biological factors relevant to its etiology and disease severity. Methods: The aim of this study was to summarize the literature findings on the biological factors relevant to the pathogenesis of Perthes disease, their diagnostic and clinical significance, and their therapeutic potential. A special focus on candidate genes as susceptibility factors and factors relevant to clinical severity was made, where studies reporting clinical or preclinical results were considered as the inclusion criteria. PubMed databases were searched by two independent researchers. Sixty-eight articles were included in this review. Results on the factors relevant to vascular involvement and inflammatory molecules indicated as factors that contribute to impaired bone remodeling have been summarized. Moreover, several candidate genes relevant to an active phase of the disease have been suggested as possible biological therapeutic targets. Conclusions: Delineation of molecular biomarkers that underlie the pathophysiological process of Perthes disease can allow for the provision of earlier and more accurate diagnoses of the disease and more precise follow-ups and treatment in the early phases of the disease.
Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor: Proposal of a Diagnostic Pathway Based on Clinical Features and Neuroimaging Findings
Authors: Calandrelli Rosalinda , Massimi Luca , Pilato Fabio , Verdolotti Tommaso , Ruggiero Antonio , Attinà Giorgio , Gessi Marco , Colosimo Cesare
Published: January 2023

Purpose: To assess the main imaging and clinical features in adult- and pediatric-onset atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) in order to build a predefined pathway useful for the diagnosis. Methods: We enrolled 11 ATRT patients (10 children, one adult) and we conducted a literature search on PubMed Central using the key terms “adult” or “pediatric” and “atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor”. We collected clinical and neuroradiological data reported in previous studies and combined them with those from our case series. A three step process was built to reach diagnosis by identifying the main distinctive clinical and imaging features. Results: Clinical evaluation: neurological symptoms were nonspecific. ATRT was more frequent in children under 3 years of age (7 out of 10 children) and infratentorial localization was reported more frequently in children under the age of 24 months. Midline/off-midline localization was influenced by the age. Imaging findings: Preferential location near the ventricles and liquor spaces and the presence of eccentric cysts were hallmark for ATRT; higher frequency of peripheral cysts was detected in children and in the supratentorial compartment (five out of eight patients with solid-cystic ATRT). Leptomeningeal dissemination at diagnosis was common (5 out of 10 children), while intratumoral hemorrhage, calcifications, and high cellularity were non-specific findings. Histopathological analysis: specific immunohistochemical markers were essential to confirm the diagnosis. Conclusion: In younger children, a bulky, heterogeneous mass with eccentric cystic components and development near ventricles or cisternal spaces may be suggestive of ATRT. ATRT diagnosis is more challenging in adults and relies exclusively on neuropathological examination.
An Approach toward Artificial Intelligence Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis Using Brain Signals
Authors: Sadegh-Zadeh Seyed-Ali , Fakhri Elham , Bahrami Mahboobe , Bagheri Elnaz , Khamsehashari Razieh , Noroozian Maryam , Hajiyavand Amir M.
Published: January 2023

Background: Electroencephalography (EEG) signal analysis is a rapid, low-cost, and practical method for diagnosing the early stages of dementia, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The extraction of appropriate biomarkers to assess a subject’s cognitive impairment has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. The aberrant progression of AD leads to cortical detachment. Due to the interaction of several brain areas, these disconnections may show up as abnormalities in functional connectivity and complicated behaviors. Methods: This work suggests a novel method for differentiating between AD, MCI, and HC in two-class and three-class classifications based on EEG signals. To solve the class imbalance, we employ EEG data augmentation techniques, such as repeating minority classes using variational autoencoders (VAEs), as well as traditional noise-addition methods and hybrid approaches. The power spectrum density (PSD) and temporal data employed in this study’s feature extraction from EEG signals were combined, and a support vector machine (SVM) classifier was used to distinguish between three categories of problems. Results: Insufficient data and unbalanced datasets are two common problems in AD datasets. This study has shown that it is possible to generate comparable data using noise addition and VAE, train the model using these data, and, to some extent, overcome the aforementioned issues with an increase in classification accuracy of 2 to 7%. Conclusion: In this work, using EEG data, we were able to successfully detect three classes: AD, MCI, and HC. In comparison to the pre-augmentation stage, the accuracy gained in the classification of the three classes increased by 3% when the VAE model added additional data. As a result, it is clear how useful EEG data augmentation methods are for classes with smaller sample numbers.
Role of Ensemble Deep Learning for Brain Tumor Classification in Multiple Magnetic Resonance Imaging Sequence Data
Authors: Tandel Gopal S. , Tiwari Ashish , Kakde Omprakash G. , Gupta Neha , Saba Luca , Suri Jasjit S.
Published: January 2023

The biopsy is a gold standard method for tumor grading. However, due to its invasive nature, it has sometimes proved fatal for brain tumor patients. As a result, a non-invasive computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) tool is required. Recently, many magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based CAD tools have been proposed for brain tumor grading. The MRI has several sequences, which can express tumor structure in different ways. However, a suitable MRI sequence for brain tumor classification is not yet known. The most common brain tumor is ‘glioma’, which is the most fatal form. Therefore, in the proposed study, to maximize the classification ability between low-grade versus high-grade glioma, three datasets were designed comprising three MRI sequences: T1-Weighted (T1W), T2-weighted (T2W), and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR). Further, five well-established convolutional neural networks, AlexNet, VGG16, ResNet18, GoogleNet, and ResNet50 were adopted for tumor classification. An ensemble algorithm was proposed using the majority vote of above five deep learning (DL) models to produce more consistent and improved results than any individual model. Five-fold cross validation (K5-CV) protocol was adopted for training and testing. For the proposed ensembled classifier with K5-CV, the highest test accuracies of 98.88 ± 0.63%, 97.98 ± 0.86%, and 94.75 ± 0.61% were achieved for FLAIR, T2W, and T1W-MRI data, respectively. FLAIR-MRI data was found to be most significant for brain tumor classification, where it showed a 4.17% and 0.91% improvement in accuracy against the T1W-MRI and T2W-MRI sequence data, respectively. The proposed ensembled algorithm (MajVot) showed significant improvements in the average accuracy of three datasets of 3.60%, 2.84%, 1.64%, 4.27%, and 1.14%, respectively, against AlexNet, VGG16, ResNet18, GoogleNet, and ResNet50.
Can We Apply Snyder’s Arthroscopic Classification to Ultrasound for Evaluating Rotator Cuff Tears? A Comparative Study with MR Arthrography
Authors: Porta Marco , La Marca Salvatore , Carapella Nicola , Surace Alessandra , Fanciullo Cristiana , Simonini Roberto , Sironi Sandro , Albano Domenico , Messina Carmelo , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Aliprandi Alberto
Published: January 2023

We aimed to demonstrate the applicability of Snyder’s arthroscopic classification of rotator cuff tears (RCT) in shoulder ultrasound (US) and to compare it with MR arthrography (MRA). Forty-six patients (34 males; mean age:34 ± 14 years) underwent shoulder US and MRA. Two radiologists (R1 = 25 years of experience; R2 = 2 years of experience) assigned A1–4, B1–4, or C1–4 values depending on the extent of RCT in both US and MRA. Inter-reader intra-modality and intra-reader inter-modality agreement were calculated using Cohen’s kappa coefficient. US sensitivity and specificity of both readers were calculated using MRA as the gold standard. Patients were divided into intact cuff vs. tears, mild (A1/B1) vs. moderate (A2–3/B2–3) tears, mild-moderate (A2/B2) vs. high-moderate (A3/B3) cuff tears, moderate (A2–3/B2–3) vs. advanced (A4/B4) and full-thickness (C) tears. The highest agreement values in inter-reader US evaluation were observed for mild-moderate vs. high-moderate RCT (K = 0.745), in inter-reader MRA evaluation for mild vs. moderate RCT (K = 0.821), in R1 inter-modality (US-MRA) for mild-moderate vs. high-moderate and moderate vs. advanced/full-thickness RCT (K = 1.000), in R2 inter-modality (US-MRA) for moderate vs. advanced/full-thickness RCT (K = 1.000). US sensitivity ranged from 88.89%(R1)–84.62%(R2) to 100% (both readers), while specificity from 77.78%(R1)–90.00%(R2) to 100% (both readers). Snyder’s classification can be used in US to ensure the correct detection and characterization of RCT.
Changing Laboratory Practice for Early Detection of a Fetal Inflammatory Response: A Contemporary Approach
Authors: Wong Yin Ping , Khong T Yee
Published: January 2023

Neonates born with the fetal inflammatory response (FIR) are at risk of complications such as early-onset neonatal sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia. Providing an early histopathological diagnosis of FIR is important to guide management but can be a challenge in busy laboratories. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study over a four-month duration recruiting all placental cases with histological chorioamnionitis in our institution. The diagnostic performance of the umbilical cord (UC) section in identifying FIR, relative to the corresponding subsequent placental sections, was assessed. Clinical predictors of umbilical cord FIR were also investigated. A total of 390 UC sections were analyzed, of which 206 (52.8%) were found positive for FIR: 111 cases (53.9%) stage 1, 87 (42.2%) stage 2, and 8 (3.9%) stage 3. Our data revealed a good diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and accuracy of 76.2% (95%CI: 68.6–82.7%), 82.4% (95%CI: 65.5–93.2%), 95.0% (95%CI: 90.2–97.6%), and 77.3% (95%CI: 70.6–83.1%) respectively, in cases when clinical chorioamnionitis, fever and/or prolonged rupture of membrane (PROM) were suspected, with the area under the curve of 0.793. A maternal inflammatory response (MIR) was correlated with FIR (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the higher the gestational age, clinical suspicion of chorioamnionitis, fever, and/or PROM, and the higher the stage of MIR significantly increased the odds of FIR (p < 0.001). UC section diagnosis of FIR is reasonably accurate in cases with clinical chorioamnionitis, fever, and/or PROM. Changing current laboratory practice to rapid processing of UC ahead of the rest of the other placental sections can be recommended in busy pathology departments.
Deep Learning for Fully Automated Radiographic Measurements of the Pelvis and Hip
Authors: Stotter Christoph , Klestil Thomas , Röder Christoph , Reuter Philippe , Chen Kenneth , Emprechtinger Robert , Hummer Allan , Salzlechner Christoph , DiFranco Matthew , Nehrer Stefan
Published: January 2023

The morphometry of the hip and pelvis can be evaluated in native radiographs. Artificial-intelligence-assisted analyses provide objective, accurate, and reproducible results. This study investigates the performance of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based software using deep learning algorithms to measure radiological parameters that identify femoroacetabular impingement and hip dysplasia. Sixty-two radiographs (124 hips) were manually evaluated by three observers and fully automated analyses were performed by an AI-driven software (HIPPO™, ImageBiopsy Lab, Vienna, Austria). We compared the performance of the three human readers with the HIPPO™ using a Bayesian mixed model. For this purpose, we used the absolute deviation from the median ratings of all readers and HIPPO™. Our results indicate a high probability that the AI-driven software ranks better than at least one manual reader for the majority of outcome measures. Hence, fully automated analyses could provide reproducible results and facilitate identifying radiographic signs of hip disorders.
Prevalence of Second Root and Root Canal in Mandibular and Maxillary Premolars Based on Two Classification Systems in Sub-Population of Northern Region (Saudi Arabia) Assessed Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): A Retrospective Study
Authors: Alshammari Sultan Meteb , Ganji Kiran Kumar , Albulayhid Amjad Abdulrahman , Alshammari Akram Mojidea , Alhassan Khalid Hamoud Raja , Alsirhani Munahi Abdullah Rushdallah
Published: January 2023

The objective of this paper is to assess the prevalence of a second canal in maxillary and mandibular premolars based on two classification systems of root canal morphology using Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. A total of 286 CBCT scans from the archive of the Radiology department of a hospital were assessed for the presence of a second canal in maxillary and mandibular premolars. The canal configuration and its assessment was undertaken using Vertucci and Ahmed’s classification. A Chi-square test was used to test the significance of the difference between gender and age. A total of 286 premolars were examined (217 mandibular premolars and 69 maxillary premolars); of these, 173 teeth (60.5%) were from males and 113 were from females (39.5%). Some 62% of maxillary left first premolars had two roots, followed by maxillary right first premolars (47%), and then maxillary left second premolars (30%) and maxillary right ones (27%), respectively. Type IV Vertucci were seen in maxillary premolars, while type I were ordinarily seen in the included mandibular premolars. Surprisingly, Vertucci type III was only found in mandibular left first premolars at a frequency of 2%. One orifice with two separate canals and two orifices of two distinct canals with two portals of exit were predominantly noticed with maxillary first premolars (2 FP B1 P1) in 73% and 81%, respectively, followed by (1 FP 2) 19%. The prevalence of a second canal in maxillary and mandibular premolars was low in the investigated premolars in comparison to the premolars that had just one root and canal, as assessed based on Vertucci and Ahmed’s root canal system classification.
How Frequently Benign Uterine Myomas Appear Suspicious for Sarcoma as Assessed by Transvaginal Ultrasound?
Authors: Cabezas Nieves , López-Picazo Ana , Diaz Patricia , Valero Beatriz , Rodriguez María José , Redondo Ana , Díaz-de la Noval Begoña , Pascual Maria Angela , Ajossa Silvia , Guerriero Stefano , Alcázar Juan Luis
Published: January 2023

Background: Uterine myomas may resemble uterine sarcomas in some cases. However, the rate of benign myomas appearing as sarcomas at an ultrasound examination is not known. The objective of this study is to determine the percentage of benign myomas that appear suspicious for uterine sarcoma on ultrasound examination. This is a prospective observational multicenter study (June 2019–December 2021) comprising a consecutive series of patients with histologically proven uterine myoma after hysterectomy or myomectomy who underwent transvaginal and/or transabdominal ultrasound prior to surgery. All ultrasound examinations were performed by expert examiners. MUSA criteria were used to describe the lesions (1). Suspicion of sarcoma was established when three or more sonographic features, described by Ludovisi et al. as “frequently seen in uterine sarcoma”, were present (2). These features are no visible myometrium, irregular cystic areas, non-uniform echogenicity, irregular contour, “cooked” appearance, and a Doppler color score of 3–4. In addition, the examiners had to classify the lesion as suspicious based on her/his impression, independent of the number of features present. Eight hundred and ten women were included. The median maximum diameter of the myomas was 58.7 mm (range: 10.0–263.0 mm). Three hundred and forty-nine (43.1%) of the patients had more than one myoma. Using the criterion of >3 suspicious features, 40 (4.9%) of the myomas had suspicious appearance. By subjective impression, the examiners considered 40 (4.9%) cases suspicious. The cases were not exactly the same. We conclude that approximately 5% of benign uterine myomas may exhibit sonographic suspicion of sarcoma. Although it is a small percentage, it is not negligible.
The Development of Systemic Inflammatory Diseases in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Saito-Sasaki Natsuko , Sawada Yu
Published: January 2023

It is understood that the skin is a peripheral lymphoid tissue that defends against external environmental stimuli. Continuous activation from these factors, on the other hand, promotes persistent inflammation at the local location and, occasionally, tissue damage. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a typical inflammatory skin disease and becomes a source of numerous inflammatory cytokines due to the chronic intractable repeated inflamed tissues. Because inflammatory cells and cytokines circulate throughout the body from the inflamed organ, it has been hypothesized that HS-mediated skin inflammation impacts the systemic functioning of numerous organs. Recent updates to clinical and experimental investigations revealed that HS has a significant connection with systemic inflammatory disorders. We provide the details and comprehensive molecular mechanisms associated with systemic inflammatory illnesses due to HS.
Factors Associated with a Post-Procedure Spontaneous Pregnancy after a Hysterosapingo-Foam-Sonography (HyFoSy): Results from a Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Engels Virginia , Medina Margarita , Antolín Eugenia , Ros Cristina , Bermejo Carmina , Manzour Nabil , Pelayo Irene , Amaro Ainara , Martinez-Ten Pilar , De-Guirior Cristian , Rodríguez Roberto , Sotillo Laura , Brotons Isabel , de la Cuesta-Benjumea Reyes , Martinez Oscar , Sancho Javier , Alcázar Juan Luis
Published: January 2023

Background: Tubal patency testing constitutes an essential part of infertility work-up. Hysterosalpingo-foam-sonography (HyFoSy) is currently one of the best tests for assessing tubal patency. The objective of our study was to evaluate the post-procedure rate of spontaneous pregnancy among infertile women submitted for an HyFoSy exam with ExEm® foam and the factors associated with this. Methods: Multicenter, prospective, observational study performed at six Spanish centers for gynecologic sonography and human reproduction. From December 2015 to June 2021, 799 infertile women underwent HyFoSy registration consecutively. The patients’ information was collected from their medical records. Multivariable regression analyses were performed, controlling for age, etiology, and time of sterility. The main outcome was to measure post-procedure spontaneous pregnancy rates and the factors associated with the achievement of pregnancy. Results: 201 (26.5%) women got spontaneous conception (SC group), whereas 557 (73.5%) women did not get pregnant (non-spontaneous conception group, NSC). The median time for reaching SC after HyFoSy was 4 months (CI 95% 3.1–4.9), 18.9% of them occurring the same month of the procedure. Couples with less than 18 months of infertility were 93% more likely to get pregnant after HyFoSy (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.34–2.81; p < 0.001); SC were two times more frequent in women under 35 years with unexplained infertility (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.07–4.65; P0.033). Conclusion: After HyFoSy, one in four patients got pregnant within the next twelve months. Couples with shorter infertility time, unexplained infertility, and women under 35 years are more likely to achieve SC after HyFoSy.
Can Respiration Complexity Help the Diagnosis of Disorders of Consciousness in Rehabilitation?
Authors: Liuzzi Piergiuseppe , Grippo Antonello , Draghi Francesca , Hakiki Bahia , Macchi Claudio , Cecchi Francesca , Mannini Andrea
Published: January 2023

Background: Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) activity, as cardiac, respiratory and electrodermal activity, has been shown to provide specific information on different consciousness states. Respiration rates (RRs) are considered indicators of ANS activity and breathing patterns are currently already included in the evaluation of patients in critical care. Objective: The aim of this work was to derive a proxy of autonomic functions via the RR variability and compare its diagnostic capability with known neurophysiological biomarkers of consciousness. Methods: In a cohort of sub-acute patients with brain injury during post-acute rehabilitation, polygraphy (ECG, EEG) recordings were collected. The EEG was labeled via descriptors based on American Clinical Neurophysiology Society terminology and the respiration variability was extracted by computing the Approximate Entropy (ApEN) of the ECG-derived respiration signal. Competing logistic regressions were applied to evaluate the improvement in model performances introduced by the RR ApEN. Results: Higher RR complexity was significantly associated with higher consciousness levels and improved diagnostic models’ performances in contrast to the ones built with only electroencephalographic descriptors. Conclusions: Adding a quantitative, instrumentally based complexity measure of RR variability to multimodal consciousness assessment protocols may improve diagnostic accuracy based only on electroencephalographic descriptors. Overall, this study promotes the integration of biomarkers derived from the central and the autonomous nervous system for the most comprehensive diagnosis of consciousness in a rehabilitation setting.
Distinct Subtypes of Hepatorenal Syndrome and Associated Outcomes as Identified by Machine Learning Consensus Clustering
Authors: Tangpanithandee Supawit , Thongprayoon Charat , Krisanapan Pajaree , Mao Michael A. , Kaewput Wisit , Pattharanitima Pattharawin , Boonpheng Boonphiphop , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: January 2023

Background: The utilization of multi-dimensional patient data to subtype hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) can individualize patient care. Machine learning (ML) consensus clustering may identify HRS subgroups with unique clinical profiles. In this study, we aim to identify clinically meaningful clusters of hospitalized patients for HRS using an unsupervised ML clustering approach. Methods: Consensus clustering analysis was performed based on patient characteristics in 5564 patients primarily admitted for HRS in the National Inpatient Sample from 2003–2014 to identify clinically distinct HRS subgroups. We applied standardized mean difference to evaluate key subgroup features, and compared in-hospital mortality between assigned clusters. Results: The algorithm revealed four best distinct HRS subgroups based on patient characteristics. Cluster 1 patients (n = 1617) were older, and more likely to have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular comorbidities, hypertension, and diabetes. Cluster 2 patients (n = 1577) were younger and more likely to have hepatitis C, and less likely to have acute liver failure. Cluster 3 patients (n = 642) were younger, and more likely to have non-elective admission, acetaminophen overdose, acute liver failure, to develop in-hospital medical complications and organ system failure, and to require supporting therapies, including renal replacement therapy, and mechanical ventilation. Cluster 4 patients (n = 1728) were younger, and more likely to have alcoholic cirrhosis and to smoke. Thirty-three percent of patients died in hospital. In-hospital mortality was higher in cluster 1 (OR 1.53; 95% CI 1.31–1.79) and cluster 3 (OR 7.03; 95% CI 5.73–8.62), compared to cluster 2, while cluster 4 had comparable in-hospital mortality (OR 1.13; 95% CI 0.97–1.32). Conclusions: Consensus clustering analysis provides the pattern of clinical characteristics and clinically distinct HRS phenotypes with different outcomes.
Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis in an Adolescent Girl: An Atypical Presentation of an Unexpected Disease
Authors: Gatti Simona , Piloni Francesca , Bindi Edoardo , Cruccetti Alba , Catassi Carlo , Cobellis Giovanni
Published: January 2023

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is a common cause of vomiting in the first few weeks of life, but in rare cases, it may occur in older subjects with a major risk of delayed diagnosis and complications. We describe the case of a 12-year-and-8-month-old girl who presented to our department for epigastric pain, coffee-ground emesis, and melena, which arose after taking ketoprofen. An abdomen ultrasound showed thickening (1 cm) of the gastric pyloric antrum, while upper-GI endoscopy documented esophagitis and antral gastritis with a non-bleeding pyloric ulcer. During her hospital stay, she had no further episodes of vomiting and was therefore discharged with a diagnosis of “NSAIDs-induced acute upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding”. After 14 days, following recurrence of abdominal pain and vomiting, she was hospitalized again. At endoscopy, pyloric sub-stenosis was found, abdominal CT showed thickening of large gastric curvature and pyloric walls, and an Rx barium study documented delayed gastric emptying. On suspicion of idiopathic hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, she underwent Heineke–Mikulicz pyloroplasty with resolution of symptoms and restoration of a regular caliber of the pylorus. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, although occurring rarely in older children, should be taken into account in the differential diagnosis of recurrent vomiting at any age.
Yata Virus (Family Rhabdoviridae, Genus Ephemerovirus) Isolation from Mosquitoes from Uganda, the First Reported Isolation since 1969
Authors: Perinet Lara C. , Mutebi John-Paul , Powers Ann M. , Lutwama Julius J. , Mossel Eric C.
Published: January 2023

As a part of a systematic study of mosquitoes and associated viruses in Uganda, a virus was isolated from a pool of Mansonia uniformis collected in July 2017, in the Kitgum District of northern Uganda. Sequence analysis determined that the virus is Yata virus (YATAV; Ephemerovirus yata; family Rhabdoviridae). The only previous reported isolation of YATAV was in 1969 in Birao, Central African Republic, also from Ma. uniformis mosquitoes. The current sequence is over 99% identical at the nucleotide level to the original isolate, indicating a high level of YATAV genomic stability.
Decompressive Craniectomy in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: The Intensivist’s Point of View
Authors: Vitali Matteo , Marasco Stefano , Romenskaya Tatsiana , Elia Angela , Longhitano Yaroslava , Zanza Christian , Abenavoli Ludovico , Scarpellini Emidio , Bertuccio Alessandro , Barbanera Andrea
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a severe pathology with important social and economic concerns, decompressive craniectomy (DC) represents a life-saving surgical option to treat elevated intracranial hypertension (ICP). The rationale underlying DC is to remove part of the cranial bones and open the dura mater to create space, avoiding secondary parenchymal damage and brain herniations. The scope of this narrative review is to summarize the most relevant literature and to discuss main issues about indication, timing, surgical procedure, outcome, and complications in adult patients involved in severe traumatic brain injury, underwent to the DC. The literature research is made with Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms on PubMed/MEDLINE from 2003 to 2022 and we reviewed the most recent and relevant articles using the following keywords alone or matched with each other: decompressive craniectomy; traumatic brain injury; intracranial hypertension; acute subdural hematoma; cranioplasty; cerebral herniation, neuro-critical care, neuro-anesthesiology. The pathogenesis of TBI involves both primary injuries that correlate directly to the external impact of the brain and skull, and secondary injuries due to molecular, chemical, and inflammatory cascade inducing further cerebral damage. The DC can be classified into primary, defined as bone flap removing without its replacement for the treatment of intracerebral mass, and secondary, which indicates for the treatment of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), refractory to intensive medical management. Briefly, the increased brain compliance following bone removal reflects on CBF and autoregulation inducing an alteration in CSF dynamics and so, eventual complications. The risk of complications is estimated around 40%. The main cause of mortality in DC patients is due to brain swelling. In traumatic brain injury, primary or secondary decompressive craniectomy is a life-saving surgery, and the right indication should be mandatory in multidisciplinary medical–surgical consultation.
The Adoption of AAOIFI Standards by Islamic Banks: Understanding the Microeconomic Consequences
Authors: Elhalaby Sherif , Sarea Adel , Alnesafi Awwad , Al-Absy Mujeeb Saif Mohsen
Published: January 2023

This study seeks to measure the microeconomic consequences of the adoption of the Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) standards on the conservatism, financial performance (FP), and earnings management (EM) of Islamic banks (IBs). The study draws on data from 122 IBs across 22 countries over a period of eight years (2014–2021), using the generalised method of moments (GMM). The results indicate a positive impact of AAOIFI adoption on financial performance and conservatism compared to non-adopters. Our results further show that IBs that adopt AAOIFI are less involved in EM. After applying robustness checks (corporate governance, inflation, and mandatory adoption of AAOIFI in some countries), our results remain the same. The implications of the study are potentially valuable for those setting accounting standards (such as AAOIFI and International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)), central banks, financial market regulators, investors, governments, and any adopting or non-adopting Islamic financial institutions (IFIs) through identification of the effects of AAOIFI adoption.
Challenges of Preadolescence in the School Context: A Systematic Review of Protective/Risk Factors and Intervention Programmes
Authors: Mascia Maria Lidia , Langiu Giulia , Bonfiglio Natale Salvatore , Penna Maria Pietronilla , Cataudella Stefania
Published: January 2023

Preadolescence is a critical period, characterised by changes in physical, hormonal, cognitive, behavioural, and emotional development, as well as by changes in social and school relationships. These changes are accompanied by the transition from elementary school to middle school. The literature shows that this transition is one of the most stressful events for preadolescents, which can have a negative impact on their well-being. The main objectives of this review, focused on the school context, were to identify protective and risk factors influencing the well-being of preadolescent students and to describe the interventions implemented. A systematic search of peer-reviewed papers published between 2011 and 2021 was conducted following the PRISMA reporting guidelines. A total of 36 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria. Studies converge in identifying risk factors that may affect student well-being in this age group: individual factors (levels of emotional awareness and self-esteem) and relational factors (friendship, teachers’ and parents’ supporting actions and roles). Intervention programs are mainly focused on improving emotional and social regulation skills that also influence academic achievement. Our findings have important implications for both research and intervention in school settings.
Identification and Prioritization of Lean Waste in Higher Education Institutions (HEI): A Proposed Framework
Authors: Mulyana Ig. Jaka , Singgih Moses Laksono , Partiwi Sri Gunani , Hermanto Yustinus Budi
Published: January 2023

Waste in HEIs is difficult to identify, so identifying and prioritizing waste is challenging. This research aims to develop a framework within which to identify and prioritize waste reduction in HEIs. The novelty of this study is that it analyzes and prioritizes waste in HEI from the perspective of four stakeholders in teaching, research, and community services, as well as supporting activities. The process of waste identification was undertaken via observation and literature review, while prioritization of waste was based on the criticality level of waste (CLoW). Determining the criticality level of waste (CLoW) consists of two stages: the first stage is calculating waste scores using questionnaires from students, lecturers, and education staff; the second stage is calculating the critical level of waste using a questionnaire from HEI leaders and analyzing it with fuzzy methods. This study identified 59 types of waste and grouped them into eight types: over-production, over-processing, waiting, motion, transportation, inventory, defects, and underutilization talent. Waste occurs in three HEI activities: teaching, research, community service, and supporting activities. The results also show the priority order of waste reduction and proposed improvements to reduce waste. This study offers a practical contribution to the management of HEIs to identify and prioritize waste reduction. The theoretical contribution of this study is that it fills the research gap of waste reduction prioritization in all aspects of HEI activities involving all HEI stakeholders involved in the business process, namely, students, academics, non-academic staff, and HEI leaders.
Teachers’ Pedagogical Beliefs in a Project-Based Learning School in South Africa
Authors: Nxasana Sizwe Errol , Chen Juebei , Du Xiangyun , Hasan Mahmood Ahmed
Published: January 2023

Pedagogical beliefs serve as important drivers for teachers’ approaches to implementing innovative learning methods. To promote change in education processes, understanding teachers’ perspectives of their teaching roles and beliefs and how they change in the shift from traditional teaching to constructivist learning in diverse learning contexts, is essential. This study provides an overview of various traditional and constructivist beliefs held by teachers in a South African K-12 institution where project-based learning has been applied at the institutional level. The results indicate that pedagogical development and supportive policy at the institutional level both have a considerable influence on teachers’ changes of beliefs; nevertheless, a sustainable change demands long-term efforts. Proposals for future pedagogical training design are suggested to help teachers move from traditional teaching beliefs to constructivist learning beliefs.
Developing Pre-Service Teachers’ Professionalism by Sharing and Receiving Experiences in the Kampus Mengajar Program
Authors: Suyatno Suyatno , Wantini Wantini , Pambudi Dholina Inang , Muqowim Muqowim , Tinus Agus , Patimah Lilis
Published: January 2023

The low quality of teachers in Indonesia indicates that its current professional development programs are yet to reach an ideal form. Therefore, this research aims to determine how the kampus mengajar (teaching campus) program can be used to improve the professionalism of pre-service teachers to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Open interview questions were used to collect data from eleven pre-service teachers, two supervisors, and two principals involved in the kampus mengajar program with 3 months of professional experience placements in elementary schools spread across Indonesia. The data collected were analyzed using the thematic data analysis technique. The results showed that although the kampus mengajar program experiences various challenges, it can be used by pre-service teachers to enhance their professionalism by sharing and receiving experiences. The kampus mengajar program offers real and authentic experiences for pre-service teachers in guiding students, performing various administrative tasks, and learning in the workplace; thus, they have a better understanding of school life realities.
FPGA-Based Tactile Sensory Platform with Optical Fiber Data Link for Feedback Systems in Prosthetics
Authors: Di Patrizio Stanchieri Guido , Saleh Moustafa , De Marcellis Andrea , Ibrahim Ali , Faccio Marco , Valle Maurizio , Palange Elia
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we propose and validate a tactile sensory feedback system for prosthetic applications based on an optical communication link. The optical link features a low power and wide transmission bandwidth, which makes the feedback system suitable for a large number and variety of tactile sensors. The low-power transmission is derived from the employed UWB-based optical modulation technique. A system prototype, consisting of digital transmitter and receiver boards and acquisition circuits to interface 32 piezoelectric sensors, was implemented and experimentally tested. The system functionality was demonstrated by processing and transmitting data from the piezoelectric sensor at a 100 Mbps data rate through the optical link, measuring a communication energy consumption of 50 pJ/bit. The reported experimental results validate the functionality of the proposed sensory feedback system and demonstrate its real-time operation capabilities.