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Major burn injury, despite advancements in care and prevention, can have a profound impact on long-term morbidity, affecting quality of life and socioeconomic standing. We aim to explore factors predicting recovery of independence, the expected rate and time in majorly burned patients, and the measures of progress used. A systematic search of four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, CINAHL) was conducted for studies reporting outcomes pertaining to physical ability indicative of independent function in adult (>15 y) cohorts who had suffered a major burn (>20% TBSA) up to 30 years after treatment in a developed specialised burn service. Data extracted included factors affecting rate of and time to achievement of function in five independence domains, as well as the outcome measures used. 21 eligible studies were included comprising 1298 major burns survivors with a combined mean age of 39.6 y and a mean TBSA of 25.8%. The most significant recurring factors impacting recovery of independent function were older age, female gender, burn severity, prolonged ICU and hospital admission, preceding mental health conditions, and post-acute psychological issues. Exercise-based rehabilitation conferred benefits on major burn patients even over 2 years following injury. Discharge to independent living from hospital occurred in 27% to 97% of patients, while reported return to work rates varied from 52% to 80%. Burns Specific Health Scale-Brief, Functional Independence Measure, and Physical Composite Score (SF-36) were the most widely used outcome scoring systems. Major burn survivors have protracted recovery with potential for persistent chronic impairments, remaining consistently below baseline levels of function. Non-modifiable factors such as age and gender, and disease characteristics such as burn size with associated physical, physiological and psychosocial sequelae are contributory. Further research is required to explore achievement of specific milestones of major burn and polytrauma critical care patients, while early targeted rehabilitation addressing physical, psychological, and vocational needs has promising potential benefit. • Survivors of severe burns persistently remain below baseline levels of function. • Many do not return to independent living or work, exacting a socioeconomic burden. • Older, female, and mental health patients may be less likely to regain independence. • Higher burn size/depth and prolonged admission are also significant risk factors. • Early physical & vocational rehabilitation with psychological support aids recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energies can reduce emissions from fossil fuel-based power production by a significant amount, reducing climate change. Among the several options being investigated, hydrogen is now recognized as one of the primary enabling technologies for future large-scale and long-term green storage of renewable energy. However, using clean and renewable energy sources like water and sunlight is the best option. According to recent studies, photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a potential technology for creating hydrogen using free solar energy since hydrogen and oxygen gases may be easily identified in PEC. This study uses bibliometric and systematic literature review methodologies to examine the scientific understanding of PEC water splitting and hydrogen generation, evaluating 936 articles issued in the Web of Science database from 1970 to 2022. The authors looked at how PEC water splitting research has developed compared to prior research, what criteria make up practical approaches, and what subjects have emerged as new trends in reacting to changing situations. The key findings from the article analysis, future research potential, and practical implications for the field are discussed. [Display omitted] • A bibliometric analysis of photoelectrochemical and hydrogen production is conducted. • Web of Science database from 1970 to 2022 was used in this review. • The key findings from the article analysis are discussed. • Future research potential and practical implications for the field of study are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing number of older people remain in custody each year resulting in an increasing number of common mental and physical health concerns. No prior evidenced-based targeted psychological interventions support this group of people, and little is known about their needs, current activities, and health-related problems. We addressed these gaps through a project involving older prisoners, prison staff and a project advisory group in one male and one female prison site in the North of England. Systematic review evidence supports the development of an implementation tool kit addressing strategies to develop and deliver interventions that are sustainable, acceptable, and feasible in the prison environment. Prison strategies need to specifically address the needs of older people in custody. Relatively inexpensive activities, with some thought to delivery and flexibility have the potential to benefit common mental and physical health, increasing quality of life, reducing high economic and social cost, mortality, and reoffending in this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a method to generate analytic, stationary solutions to generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equations with complicated dispersion profiles. The experimental observation of such solutions in a fiber laser was recently reported. Our method proceeds in a systematic fashion and does not require initial guesses. The solutions take the form of an exponentially converging sum of functions, each with an infinite number of discontinuous derivatives at the origin, which disappear upon summation. They can be found conveniently using a symbolic manipulation program. Our method can not only find stable solitons, but also higher order solutions that tend to be unstable and that are difficult to find numerically. • A general approach to find analytic expressions for solitary wave solutions. • Analytic expressions for solitary waves we have found experimentally in the last few years. • Systematic method without assumptions and works where numerical methods struggle. • Applicable to nonlinear wave equations (e.g. nonlinear Schrödinger/KdV equations.). • The method converges exponentially fast and can find higher-order and odd solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, namely Astioberotha coutreti sp. nov., of the thorny lacewing subfamily Paraberothinae, is described and illustrated from a complete individual preserved in mid-Cretaceous amber from Tanai, northern Myanmar. Astioberotha coutreti sp. nov. preserves nearly all the diagnostic characters of this subfamily, and differs from the type species of the genus Astioberotha owing to the fore femur with one long basal spine and 34 additional smaller spines; protibia bearing five distal spines; probasitarsus with two spines on inner edge located near mid-length; forewing with numerous maculation spots; intra-RP crossvein between RP3 and RP4 present (4rp3-rp4). Astioberotha coutreti sp. nov. together with the recent description of several other Paraberothinae species from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber, are used to discuss the palaeobiogeography of the subfamily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• OCD logically would be expected to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic situation, including due to commonality of contamination/washing symptoms. • Longitudinal data in clinical settings suggested marked symptom worsening in 20–65 % of OCD patients; but that not all patients experience a worsening, and some experience improvement. • Cross-sectional data from general population studies implicated trait compulsivity and pandemic-related stress in OCD symptoms during the pandemic. • Studies should examine neuropsychiatric sequelae of Covid-19; and they should incorporate validated measures to quantify emergence/worsening of OCD symptoms. There has been much speculation about untoward effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on psychological symptoms. OCD may be expected to be especially impacted. Our aim was to distil the current evidence base on relationships between the pandemic and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, in patients, and general population samples. We conducted a rapid scoping review, in the form of a systematic literature search, coupled with narrative review. 32 relevant papers were identified. (1) A sizable proportion of people with OCD (but not all) experienced/reported symptom worsening during the pandemic, especially during initial restrictions (approximately 20–65 % of cases in longitudinal studies); (2) contamination/washing symptoms appeared particularly susceptible; and (3) OCD symptoms in general population samples were associated with trait compulsivity and pandemic-related-stress. The literature was heterogeneous with various methodological issues being commonplace. The review identified important unaddressed issues: how should exposure based therapy be adapted during pandemics? How can we minimise harm from exacerbation of OCD in vulnerable individuals arising from public health messaging? Why do some but not all OCD patients experience worsening? And does Covid-19 infection affect (or lead to) OCD symptoms? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Simulated patients (SPs) are widely used, but the most effective way of utilising them in undergraduate breaking bad news (BBN) medical education is unknown.Objectives: To conduct a systematic review into SP's use in developing BBN skills in medical students.Methods: 14 databases searched with the terms "Medical education", "Patient simulation", "Bad news". Data was systematically extracted, and thematic analysis undertaken.Results: Of 2117 articles screened, 29 publications met the inclusion criteria. These demonstrated a variety of SP models, including actors as patients (65.5%), peers (7.0%), and cancer survivors (3.5%). with delivery at varying times in the curricula. SPs are uniformly reported as having positive impact, but there is a lack of high-quality evidence comparing the use of differing forms of training. There was some evidence that virtual SPs were as useful as in-person SPs.Conclusions: SPs allow students to practise vital BBN communication skills without risking detriment to patient care. Despite the heterogeneity of ways in which SPs have been used, the benefits of different approaches and when and how these should be delivered remains unclear.Practice Implications: Further educational development and research is needed about the use of SPs to support undergraduate BBN communication skills development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity increases the risk of osteoarthritis and the chance of needing joint replacement arthroplasty to reduce lower limb joint pain. Although nonsurgical weight loss interventions can reduce hip and knee joint pain, bariatric surgery may be a more feasible treatment option for people with severe obesity. However, it is unclear whether weight loss through bariatric surgery can positively influence hip and knee joint pain. Our objective was to evaluate the influence of bariatric surgery on hip and knee joint pain in people with obesity by conducting a systematic review of the literature. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane bibliographic databases were searched for studies published between 1947 and September 2019. Risk of bias of the identified studies was independently assessed by 2 reviewers using JBI's Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Series and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. This review included 23 studies, all of which evaluated knee pain and 9 of which also evaluated hip pain. Reported results regarding hip pain intensity and the proportion of participants with hip pain were too limited to draw useful conclusions. Reported results regarding knee pain suggest that weight loss after bariatric surgery reduced knee pain intensity, as well as the proportion of participants with knee pain. The overall risk of bias of the majority of included studies (83%; n = 19) was judged to be unclear to high. Four small studies were judged as having a low risk of bias. Results of this systematic review suggest that bariatric surgery can positively influence hip and knee joint pain, but conclusive evidence is lacking because most of the included studies were judged as having plausible bias overall and in their key domains. Well-designed randomized controlled trials evaluating the influence of bariatric surgery on hip and knee joint pain using standardized joint pain measures are needed. • Obesity increases the risk of hip and knee joint pain, which may necessitate joint replacement arthroplasty. • The objective of this study was to review literature describing the influence of bariatric surgery on hip and knee joint pain. • Most studies reviewed were judged as having plausible risk of bias, which weakens the confidence in their results. • Results of this systematic review suggest that bariatric surgery can positively influence hip and knee joint pain in people with obesity, but conclusive evidence is lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban greening is a practical adaptation to improve the liveability of a city by providing urban cooling. This paper systematically evaluates the existing literature to understand the methodologies and associated data sources for determining the cooling effect provided by urban greening. A bibliometric analysis, including research focus parallelship network analysis and keyword co-occurrence network analysis using Gephi and BibExcel, was first performed on 156 articles to identify the main resulting research themes in cooling provided by UGAs. Subsequently, 72 of these were selected to extract more information, such as the focus, the measured parameters, the methods, and tools employed to measure cooling parameters, and the studies' scales. The bibliometric analysis identified three emerging themes: (1) on-site measurement to directly collect meteorological data, (2) remote sensing techniques used to calculate cooling indices such as cooling distance and intensity, and (3) estimation and prediction of urban temperature through modelling. The results showed that the field measurement was used in studies that have smaller spatial scale (i.e. those that examined a small number of parks). Remote sensing techniques were used to investigate larger spatial areas in which cooling indices were estimated through measurement of land surface temperature rather than the air temperature. It is also revealed that some green space and meteorological parameters have received more attention. The findings of this research will enable green space designers and urban planners to become aware of the differences between various methods for calculating cooling and the importance of various parameters. However, future research should include a mix of data acquisition, covering all urban and greenery features to quantify urban cooling, and economic and social benefits of urban greening development. A novel measurement design is proposed through which a more accurate estimation of the cooling effect of green spaces can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two evanioid wasps are described from specimens entrapped in Kachin amber. The first species, Sinuevania pouilloni sp. nov., allows a revision of the diagnosis of the genus Sinuevania. The complex forewing venation (plesiomorphy) of this new species confirms that the genus Sinuevania belongs to the stem group of the family Evaniidae. Together with the new praeaulacine wasp Praegastrinus edithae gen. et sp. nov., Sinuevania pouilloni sp. nov. shows that the diversity of the superfamily Evanioidea in the mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber remains underestimated. New fossils of evaniid wasps from the Albo-Cenomanian amber of Charente-Maritime (France) are expected to extend the diversity and distribution of several genera. Based on the recent discovery, but not yet published, of new praeaulacid specimens from the mid-Cretaceous, we propose reclassifying Mesevania within the Praeaulacidae (Praeaulacinae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L'Atlas Saharien occidental ne cesse de livrer ses secrets paléontologiques. Les récentes prospections effectuées dans la partie supérieure de la Formation de Rhoundjaia ont permis de découvrir plusieurs niveaux fossilifères riches en faunes d'ammonites inédites d'âge Turonien inférieur. Sept espèces sont décrites et illustrées dans le cadre du présent travail : Neoptychites cephalotus (Courtiller, 1860), Fagesia peroni (Pervinquière, 1907), Fagesia tevesthensis (Peron, 1896), Pseudotissotia nigeriensis (Woods, 1911), Thomasites rollandi (Thomas et Peron, 1889), Choffaticeras (C.) sinaiticum (Douvillé, 1912), Hoplitoides sp. Ces espèces couvrent les Zones à Watinoceras coloradoense et Mammites nodosoides et documentent une affinité paléobiogéographique sud-téthysienne. The Western Saharan Atlas continues to reveal its paleontological secrets. Recent prospecting carried out in the upper part of the Rhoundjaia Formation allows to discover several fossiliferous levels rich in new, unpublished ammonites (lower Turonian). Seven Species are described and illustrated in the context of this study: Neoptychites cephalotus (Courtiller, 1860), Fagesia peroni (Pervinquière, 1907), Fagesia tevesthensis (Peron, 1896), Pseudotissotia nigeriensis (Woods, 1911), Thomasites rollandi (Thomas and Peron, 1889), Choffaticeras (C.) sinaiticum (Douvillé, 1912), Hoplitoides sp. These species cover Watinoceras coloradoense and Mammites nodosoides Zones (lower Turonian) and document a south tethysian paleobiogeographic affinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are pathologic connections between the carotid arteries and the cavernous sinus and have been classically treated with endovascular coil embolization, although flow diverters have been used for treatment successfully multiple times. The aim of this study is to systematically review the literature for efficacy of flow diverters in treating CCFs. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, PubMed Central, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were searched. Combinations and variations of "carotid cavernous fistula," "flow diversion," "pipeline embolization device," "Surpass," "Silk," "p64," "FRED," and "flow redirection endoluminal device" in both AND and OR configurations were used to gather relevant articles. Citations of included articles from the systematic review were also screened for possible inclusion as a part of manual review. Included studies were full-text publications written in English that had patients with diagnosed CCFs and treatment with flow diversion. Eighteen full-text publications were relevant to this systematic review. A total of 41 patients underwent flow-diverting therapy alone or in conjunction with coil embolization, liquid embolization, and/or stenting for treatment of a diagnosed CCF. Twenty-nine patients (70.7%) needed 1 procedure alone, 11 patients (26.8%) required a second procedure, and 1 patient (2.4%) required a third procedure. Six patients (14.6%) had lasting symptoms despite intervention; however, all 41 patients had clinical improvement compared with initial presentation. Flow diversion was a useful solitary treatment or adjunctive treatment in all patients. Flow diversion is a useful adjunct in combination with coil embolization for the treatment of CCFs but long-term outcomes remain to be seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescence and young adulthood constitute a period when exploratory behaviors can evolve into risky behaviors. Most causes of adolescent ill health are preventable; therefore, it is a priority to detect them early before they turn into health problems. Previsit multidomain psychosocial screening tools are used by professionals to detect and prioritize potentially problematic issues. In conjunction with appropriate clinician training, these tools have improved clinician screening rates in several areas of adolescent health. This article reviews existing multidomain previsit psychosocial screening tools developed in the 21st century and describes their characteristics using a systematic methodology. We reviewed 10,623 records to identify 15 different tools in use since 2000 and described their characteristics. Results show that all tools were developed in high-income countries. The tools provide sufficient coverage of many psychosocial domains relevant to young people's health. However, some psychosocial domains such as screen use and strengths are seldomly addressed. Furthermore, the tools rarely focus on young adults as a target population. Future research should assess the effectiveness, acceptability, and psychometric properties of validated psychosocial screening tools and examine how to expand their use in low- and middle-income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the past two decades, biomimetic high-density lipoproteins (b-HDL) have been used for various drug delivery applications. The b-HDL mimic the endogenous HDL, and therefore possess many attractive features for drug delivery, including high biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to transport and deliver their cargo (e.g. drugs and/or imaging agents) to specific cells and tissues that are recognized by HDL. The b-HDL designs reported in the literature often differ in size, shape, composition, and type of incorporated cargo. However, there exists only limited insight into how the b-HDL design dictates their biodistribution. To fill this gap, we conducted a comprehensive systematic literature search of biodistribution studies using various designs of apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I)-based b-HDL (i.e. b-HDL with apoA-I, apoA-I mutants, or apoA-I mimicking peptides). We carefully screened 679 papers (search hits) for b-HDL biodistribution studies in mice, and ended up with 24 relevant biodistribution profiles that we compared according to b-HDL design. We show similarities between b-HDL biodistribution studies irrespectively of the b-HDL design, whereas the biodistribution of the b-HDL components (lipids and scaffold) differ significantly. The b-HDL lipids primarily accumulate in liver, while the b-HDL scaffold primarily accumulates in the kidney. Furthermore, both b-HDL lipids and scaffold accumulate well in the tumor tissue in tumor-bearing mice. Finally, we present essential considerations and strategies for b-HDL labeling, and discuss how the b-HDL biodistribution can be tuned through particle design and administration route. Our meta-analysis and discussions provide a detailed overview of the fate of b-HDL in mice that is highly relevant when applying b-HDL for drug delivery or in vivo imaging applications. Unlabelled Image • Biomimetic HDL (b-HDL) used for drug delivery vary in size, shape and composition • The biodistribution of the b-HDL variants is to a large extent similar • The b-HDL lipids accumulate primarily in the liver (and tumor) • The b-HDL scaffold accumulates primarily in the kidney and liver (and tumor) • The b-HDL biodistribution is tunable via particle design and administration route [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a new treatment method for the fatigue of multiple sclerosis patients. • tDCS is a safe method that didn't show any serious side effects. • tDCS can reduce the adverse effects of multiple sclerosis-elated fatigue in particular cognitive type. Fatigue is one of the most common disabling symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) which is present in 75% of these patients and is usually associated with functional disabilities. According to the literature, there is no general agreement on the effectiveness of the existing treatments for fatigue in patients with MS. As transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a relatively new method in the treatment of fatigue symptoms in patients with MS, the purpose of this study was to systematically review published evidence conducted to assess the effects of tDCS on fatigue in patients with MS. A thorough literature search of published articles was conducted from 1996 to 2019 in different databases including PubMed, Science Direct, OVID, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest and web of science with keywords of "tDCS", "multiple Sclerosis" and "Fatigue". Results yielded 1017 studies, which after excluding articles based on duplication and title and abstract, 8 of them were selected for review in this study. The results from the literature revealed that six studies indicated positive effects of tDCS stimulation on fatigue reduction. In four studies stimulation was over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC); in three studies stimulation placed over the whole body's primary somatosensory cortex (S1); and in one study stimulation applied over the posterior parietal cortex. In most studies, no serious side effects were reported. Most studies revealed that tDCS can reduce the adverse effects of MS-related fatigue in particular cognitive type. As follow-ups were either absent or short period, as well as the application of treatment protocols and measurement instruments were different, it was very difficult to draw strong conclusion on the effects of tDCS in patients with MS. However, further large scale studies with long term follow-up are still recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RPILD) associated with the anti-Melanoma Differentiation-Associated Gene 5-positive dermatomyositis (DM) syndrome. The task force comprised an expert panel of specialists in rheumatology, intensive care medicine, pulmonology, immunology, and internal medicine. The study was carried out in two phases: identifying key areas in the management of DM-RPILD syndrome and developing a set of recommendations based on a review of the available scientific evidence. Four specific questions focused on different treatment options were identified. Relevant publications in English, Spanish or French up to April 2018 were searched systematically for each topic using PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, and Cochrane Library (Wiley Online). The experts used evidence obtained from these studies to develop recommendations. A total of 134 studies met eligibility criteria and formed the evidentiary basis for the recommendations regarding immunosuppressive therapy and complementary treatments. Overall, there was general agreement on the initial use of combined immunosuppressive therapy. Combination of high-dose glucocorticoids and calcineurin antagonists with or without cyclophosphamide is the first choice. In the case of calcineurin antagonist contraindication or treatment failure, switching or adding other immunosuppressants may be individualized. Plasmapheresis, polymyxin B hemoperfusion and/or intravenous immunoglobulins may be used as rescue options. ECMO should be considered in life-threatening situations while waiting for a clinical response or as a bridge to lung transplant. Thirteen recommendations regarding the treatment of the anti-MDA5 positive DM-RPILD were developed using research-based evidence and expert opinion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to review the literature (1) to determine whether surface electromyography (sEMG) is a reliable tool for estimating muscle fiber conduction velocity (CV) and (2) to identify the experimental conditions that allow highly reliable CV estimation. A literature search was performed using PubMed and Web of Science databases using the terms "reproducibility", "reliability", "agreement", "surface electromyography" and "conduction velocity". Reporting quality was assessed using the "Guidelines for the Reporting of Reliability and Agreement Studies" checklist. Seventeen papers met the eligibility criteria. Test-retest, intrasession and intersession reliability were investigated in four, three and 12 studies, respectively. Although none of the studies satisfied all the relevant quality criteria, in fifteen studies, it was possible to locate an appropriate description for up to five items of the checklist. High reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.69) was reported in eight studies and was, in general, associated with using the initial or mean CV value, using several electrodes (3 to 8), ensuring appropriate electrode positioning, and evaluating muscles with fibers that run parallel to the skin. Consequently, sEMG is suitable for use when investigating CV across multiple sessions in sport science, rehabilitation, physiological and clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panoramic radiography is the standard imaging method for preoperative assessment before lower third molar removal. However, oral surgeons have been using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as an additional tool to assess detailed preoperative data, as it provides cross-sectional images. The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether the use of CBCT and the additional information provided modifies the preoperative assessment of lower third molar removal when compared to panoramic radiography and consequently results in a different surgical approach. A search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus electronic databases was performed on 30 June 2018, which retrieved 196 records without duplicates. The grey literature was also searched to include any other paper that might meet the eligibility criteria, which resulted in an additional five records. Among these papers, five met all of the eligibility criteria. These five studies included a total of 289 individuals and a total sample of 311 teeth. The findings showed that three-dimensional imaging does not change the surgical approach when compared to panoramic radiography; however it is considered a useful imaging method to understand the relationship between the lower third molars and the mandibular canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Based on newly-collected exhaustive rudist materials from the Turonian Abu Roash Formation at El-Hassana dome, Durania cornupastoris (Des Moulins) was clearly-identified. In many literatures, the Durania arnaudi (Choffat) is considered a synonym of Durania cornupastoris (Des Moulins). Our investigation is based on several characteristics that include dimensions, ornamentation, radial bands, interbands and shell microstructures of the right valves. These characters and comparison with specimens described in the literature were used to identify the collected specimens as Durania cornupastoris and differentiate it from Durania arnaudi. The external shape of the shell, widths of the radial bands and number of the longitudinal ribs in the interband were the main characteristics of Durania cornupastoris. In the described right valves, the interband (Ib) is bulge and has four to six ribs that excluded an attribution to Durania arnaudi. Moreover, the ventral radial band (Vb) of Durania cornupastoris is wider than the posterior one (Pb). The ecological and taphonomic characteristics of D. cornupastoris were highlighted. The elevator D. cornupastoris rudists of El-Hassana Dome form significant biostrome in shallow marine environments. The D. cornupastoris individuals are in growth position and they are densely packed. The borings are distributed on the D. cornupastoris shells. Moreover, these shells exhibit compaction features that appeared as fractures, deformation and/or destruction of the cellular structures in the right valves. The borings and the fractures in the shells are filled with silica materials during the silicification process. The carbon isotopic data (δ13C) of the Durania cornupastoris from Abu Roash area are similar to those from Sinai. However, the oxygen isotopic values (δ18O) measured from this species are high when compared with those from the Turonian rudist shells of Sinai. Highlights • Revision for Durania cornupastoris rudists from the Turonian at El-Hassana dome. • Comparison with the previously described Durania specimens from Egypt and the Tethys. • Comparison between Durania arnaudi and Durania cornupastoris. • More information about the distribution, taphonomy and palaeoecology of Durania cornupastoris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Villafranchian ursids of Greece are scanty, represented by a few isolated teeth and bones. During our last field campaigns in the Mygdonia Basin (Macedonia, Greece) we discovered an almost complete cranium, as well as some cranial, dental and postcranial remains, which are presented in this article. The new material originates from the locality Tsiotra Vryssi (TSR), dated to the late Villafranchian (1.8–1.2 Ma). The specimens are described and compared with ursids from various European localities; their morphological characters and dimensions place it with Ursus etruscus Cuvier, 1823, while the dental features are most similar to the specimens from Pietrafitta (Italy). The TSR cranium was CT-scanned in order to create a 3D virtual model and study its internal anatomy. Its observed endocranial traits exhibit primitive conditions, confirming the basal position of U. etruscus among the Pleistocene European ursids. Most of these features are shared with U. arctos and clearly differ from U. deningeri and U. spelaeus. Finally, we provide a revision of the known Greek material of U. etruscus and the biostratigraphic distribution of the Miocene–Pleistocene ursids of Greece. The earliest secure appearance of Ursus etruscus in Greece is found in the locality Dafnero 1 (Western Macedonia), dated to the end of the middle Villafranchian at ∼2.0 Ma, whereas its probable last occurrence is known from the locality Apollonia 1 of the Mygdonia Basin, dated to the latest Villafranchian at ∼1.2 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The public importance, wait-for-treatment ethos and clear geographic layout of Emergency Departments (EDs) has contributed to them being one of the most commonly modelled systems in healthcare Operational Research (OR). EDs are presently contending with higher than ever attendances, to which clinical research does not appear to have a comprehensive solution, whilst OR methodologies still need to command the trust of decision makers. With potentially greater acceptance of OR methodologies driven by heightened efforts to engage clinicians in evidence based approaches, we present a comprehensive review of the current literature. Whilst not the first in this area, our review is more broadly focused and thus able to serve both as a resource for modellers of methodology and study design, and as an introduction for decision makers. Our systematic literature search aimed to identify all English language papers from the year 2000 onward. We categorise papers using the defined dimensions of purpose, application area, method, scope and sponsor (originator). Of 254 retrievals, we find that new publications are currently appearing at approximately 25 per year, up seven fold since 2000. We find positive trends in terms of recent publications (75% since 2008) as well as a trend towards achieving publication in journals, including healthcare related journals, which may assist in bringing simulation to a clinical audience and facilitating future engagement. The majority of projects appear to be of academic origin, based on Discrete Event Simulation, and focused on capacity, process and workforce issues at an operational level. However, the use of hybrid modelling may be associated with a more strategic outlook, as do projects originated at the request of healthcare organisations. We present a selection of case studies to illustrate both our classification and findings, and suggest directions for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to test candidate therapeutic approaches in pulmonary hypertension (PH). The efficacy of 522 interventions with >200 unregistered drugs was tested on 7254 animals. We propose a modified formula to assess meta-data that concerns the contribution of PH animal model to the denoted efficacy of tested agents. The measure of efficacy expressed as a response ratio for right ventricle systolic pressure was 0.48 (95% CI, 0.46–0.50; P < 0.00001), mean pulmonary artery pressure was 0.54 (0.52–0.56; P < 0.00001), right ventricle hypertrophy was 0.49 (0.48–0.51; P < 0.00001) and pulmonary artery wall thickness was 0.58 (0.56–0.61; P < 0.00001). Only 41 out of 522 interventions were ineffective. The most potent agents to improve both haemodynamic and hypertrophic parameters were ATP-sensitive potassium channel openers with iptakalim, Rho/ROCK inhibitors with fasudil, RAAS regulators with adenosine and ACE2 activators, and anti-inflammatories with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and NF-кB inhibitors. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Leadership is critical in building quality work environments, implementing new models of care, and bringing health and wellbeing to a strained nursing workforce. However, the nature of leadership style, how leadership should be enacted, and its associated outcomes requires further research and understanding. We aimed to examine the relationships between various styles of leadership and outcomes for the nursing workforce and their work environments. Methods The search strategy of this systematic review included 10 electronic databases. Published, quantitative studies that examined the correlations between leadership behaviours and nursing outcomes were included. Quality assessments, data extractions and analysis were completed on all included studies by independent reviewers. Results A total of 50,941 titles and abstracts were screened resulting in 129 included studies. Using content analysis, 121 outcomes were grouped into six categories: 1) staff satisfaction with job factors, 2) staff relationships with work, 3) staff health & wellbeing , 4) relations among staff, 5) organizational environment factors and 6) productivity & effectiveness. Our analysis illuminated patterns between relational and task focused leadership styles and their outcomes for nurses and nursing work environments. For example, 52 studies reported that relational leadership styles were associated with higher nurse job satisfaction, whereas 16 studies found that task-focused leadership styles were associated with lower nurse job satisfaction. Similar trends were found for each category of outcomes. Conclusions The findings of this systematic review provide strong support for the employment of relational leadership styles to promote positive nursing workforce outcomes and related organizational outcomes. Leadership focused solely on task completion is insufficient to achieve optimum outcomes for the nursing workforce. Relational leadership practices need to be encouraged and supported by individuals and organizations to enhance nursing job satisfaction, retention, work environment factors and individual productivity within healthcare settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite establishment of advocacies centered on using patient-centered care to improve disease-related behavioral changes and health outcomes, studies have seldom discussed incorporation of patient-centered care concept in the design of secondary cardiac prevention. Objectives This review aimed to identify, appraise, and examine existing evidence on the effectiveness of nurse-led patient-centered care for secondary cardiac prevention in patients with coronary heart disease. Design A systematic review of randomized controlled trials focusing on nurse-led patient-centered care for secondary cardiac prevention was conducted. Primary outcomes were behavioral risks (e.g. smoking, physical activity), secondary outcomes were clinically relevant physiological parameters (e.g. body weight, blood pressure, blood glucose, blood lipoproteins), health-related quality of life, mortality, and self efficacy. Data sources Twenty-three English and seven Chinese electronic databases were searched to identify the trials. Review methods The studies’ eligibility and methodological quality were assessed by two reviewers independently according to the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Statistical heterogeneities of the included studies were assessed by Higgins I2 and quantitative pooling was performed when studies showed sufficient comparability. Results 15 articles on 12 randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Methodological quality of the included studies was fair. Based on the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool for experimental studies, the included studies had met a mean of six criteria out the ten in this appraisal tool. The meta-analyses of the included studies revealed that nurse-led patient-centered care had significantly improved patients' smoking habits, adherence toward physical activity advices, and total cholesterol level with medical regime optimization, in short- to medium-term. The intervention was also favorable in improving the patients' health-related quality of life in several domains of SF-36. Furthermore, from single-study results, the intervention was favorable in improving the patients' weight management and alcohol consumption. However, it did not show significant effects on improving the patient's dietary habits, certain cardiac physiological parameters, mortality and self-efficacy. Currently, no addition long-term benefit of the intervention on secondary cardiac prevention was identified. Conclusion This review has systematically analyzed the effects of nurse-led patient-centered care on patients’ behavioral risks, cardiac physiological parameters, mortality, health-related quality of life and self-efficacy. Given limited quantity of existing evidence regarding certain outcomes and long-term follow-up period; cross-trial heterogeneity of the interventions, measurement methods and statistical results; high or unclear risk of bias in some quality dimensions, the effectiveness of the intervention on secondary cardiac prevention remains inconclusive and subject to additional trials and evidences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia have an increased incidence with aging. The most effective treatments are radical prostatectomy and transurethral resection of the prostate. To reduce perioperative bleeding in these surgeries, an approach is the use of tranexamic acid (TXA). Studies show that TXA is effective in reducing the blood loss and the need for transfusion in cardiac, orthopedic, and gynecological surgeries. In prostate surgeries, its efficacy and safety have not been established yet. Study objective To determine whether there are differences between TXA versus placebo in terms of intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, hemoglobin levels and the incidence of thromboembolic events. Design Systematic review with meta-analyses. Setting Anesthesia for prostate surgery. Patients We searched the Medline, Cochrane, EBSCO, and Web of Science databases up to 2017 for randomized controlled trials that compared TXA administration with a control group in patients who submitted to prostate surgery. Measurements The primary outcomes were the intraoperative blood loss and transfusion rate. Data on hemoglobin levels and the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were also collected. Results Nine comparative studies were included in the meta-analyses. The estimated blood loss and transfusion rate were lower in patients receiving TXA, with a standardized mean difference of −1.93 (95% CI = −2.81 to −1.05, I 2  = 96%), and a risk ratio of 0.61 (95% CI = 0.47 to 0.80, I 2  = 0%), respectively. The hemoglobin levels and the incidence of DVT and PE did not differ between the groups. Conclusions TXA reduced intraoperative blood loss and the need for transfusion, without increasing the risk of DVT and PE in prostate surgeries. Due to the limited number of studies and the high heterogeneity of the results, more clinical trials with a large number of patients are necessary to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cenomanian–Turonian succession (C–T) outcropping in the Tinrhert Basin, in the southeastern part of Algeria, has been the focus of many studies since the turn of the 19th century. In the present research, new C–T sections have been scrutinized over a distance of approximately 300 km, from Gour Ben Houilet in the west to Oued In Adaoui in the east. More than 1.700 ammonites and nautilids were collected bed-by-bed and 30 taxa subsequently identified; these are systematically described and illustrated herein. Thirteen of them [ Placenticeras cf. kaffrarium Etheridge, Metengonoceras dumbli (Cragin), Calycoceras ( Proeucalycoceras ) sp., Pseudaspidoceras pseudonodosoides (Choffat) , Vascoceras aff . glabrum (Barber) , Rubroceras burroense Cobban, Hook and Kennedy, Fagesia peroni Pervinquière , Eotissotia simplex Barber , Hoplitoides wohltmanni (Von Koenen) , Kamerunoceras turoniense (d'Orbigny) , Choffaticeras sp. , Choffaticeras meslei (Peron), and Choffaticeras sinaiticum Douvillé] are recorded from the Tinrhert area for the first time. This study also evidences that both subspecies Neolobites vibrayeanus vibrayeanus (d'Orbigny) and Neolobites vibrayeanus brancai Eck are associated in the same section and in the same level. In the Tinrhert area, the biostratigraphic ammonite successions are subdivided into nine bio-events that are easily correlatable with the upper Cenomanian–lower Turonian standard zonation. The paleobiogeographic affinities of the recorded taxa characterize these ammonoid assemblages as part of the southern Tethyan Province during the early Late Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal gamma oscillations, measured by electroencephalography (EEG), have been associated with chronic psychotic disorders, but their prevalence in the early phase of psychosis is less clear. We sought to address this by systematically reviewing the relevant literature. We searched for EEG studies of gamma band oscillations in subjects at high risk for psychosis and in patients with first episode psychosis. The following measures of gamma oscillations were extracted: resting power, evoked power, induced power, connectivity and peak frequency. Forty-five studies with a total of 3099 participants were included. There were potential sources of bias in the study designs and potential artefacts. Although there were few consistent findings, several studies reported decreased evoked or induced power in both high risk subjects and first episode patients. Studies using larger samples with serial EEG measurements, and designs that minimise artefacts that occur at the gamma frequency may advance work in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A palynological study on samples obtained from the Anfiteatro de Ticó and Punta del Barco formations (Baqueró Group, Macizo del Deseado area, Santa Cruz Province) is carried out. A total of 162 taxa are identified in this work, including the recognition of 59 not previously reported in the unit. Furthermore, 9 new species are proposed: Coptospora santacrucensis sp. nov., Crybelosporites corrugatus sp. nov., Cycadopites grossus sp. nov., Cyclusphaera annularis sp. nov., Cyclusphaera punnulosa sp. nov., Densoisporites patagonicus sp. nov., Peromonolites globosum sp. nov., Retitriletes ornatus sp. nov. and Taurocusporites inaequalis sp. nov. Continental algae, recovered from the Anfiteatro de Ticó Formation, are illustrated for the first time. Comparisons with other Lower Cretaceous palynological zones from regions located at similar paleolatitudes (e.g. Australia, India) and from the Potomac Group (USA) are carried out. Finally, changes in the floral composition across the Baqueró deposits are analyzed considering a context of progressive increase of volcanic activity that most certainly had some effect in the dynamics of the floristic community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: While music is being increasingly used as a surgical intervention, the types of music used and the reasons underlying their selection remain inconsistent. Empirical research into the efficacy of such musical interventions is therefore problematic.Objective: To provide clear guidelines for musical selection and employment in surgical interventions, created through a synthesis of the literature. The aim is to examine how music is implemented in surgical situations, and to provide guidance for the selection and composition of music for future interventions.Methods: English language quantitative surgical intervention studies from Science Direct, ProQuest, and Sage Journals Online, all published within the last 10 years and featuring recorded music, were systematically reviewed. Variables investigated included: the time the intervention was performed, the intervention length, the outcomes targeted, music description (general and specific), theoretical frameworks underlying the selection of the music, whether or not a musical expert was involved, participant music history, and the participants' feedback on the chosen music.Results: Several aspects contribute to the lack of scientific rigour regarding music selection in this field, including the lack of a theoretical framework or frameworks, no involvement of musical experts, failure to list the music tracks used, and the use of vague and subjective terms in general music descriptions. Patients are frequently allowed to select music (risking both choosing music that has an adverse effect and making study replication difficult), and patient music history and listening habits are rarely considered. Crucially, five primary theoretical frameworks underlying the effectiveness of music arose in the literature (distraction, relaxation, emotional shift, entrainment, and endogenous analgesia), however music was rarely selected to enhance any of these mechanisms.Conclusions: Further research needs to be conducted to ensure that music is selected according to a theoretical framework and more rigorous and replicable methodology. Music interventions can be made more effective at improving psychological states and reducing physiological arousal by selecting music conducive to specific mechanisms, and also by considering at what point during the surgical experience the music would be most effective. Greater involvement of music experts in interventions would help to ensure that the most appropriate music was chosen, and that it is clearly and precisely described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of lower lip pits in individuals with Van der Woude syndrome (VWS) may cause discomfort due to saliva secretion. Furthermore, one of the main complaints in relation to lip pits is poor aesthetics, which often affects quality of life. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the best technique for the surgical removal of lower lip pits in terms of aesthetic and functional characteristics. A search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus databases was performed on December 27, 2016, which retrieved 88 records without duplicates. Among these papers, three ultimately met all eligibility criteria. The three studies included a total of 61 individuals, with follow-up ranging from 6 months to 10 years and sample collection from 10 to 24 years. The findings demonstrated that the outcome of surgical removal of lower lip pits was better with the use of vertical wedge excision, inverted-T lip reduction, Mutaf–Goldstein technique and modified simple excision than with simple excision. Simple excision may result in postoperative complications, such as mucocele and pit recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whip scorpions (Uropygi) are a group of terrestrial arachnids comprising the Schizomida and Thelyphonida and are the sister-group to the whip spiders or Amblypygi. Both of these taxa form complex spermatophores and display complex courtship and mating behavior. While these traits have been subject to several recent studies on amblypygids, information on uropygids is still scarce. We try to fill this gap and studied mating behavior and spermatophore morphology of the thelyphonid Mastigoproctus proscorpio . Courtship and spermatophore transfer is similar to closely related species, but the spermatophore morphology is species-specific. The spermatophore consists of two coiled sperm carriers that medially unite to a common base which is attached to a substrate for transfer. Two distinct layers are present in the sperm carriers. The sperm duct opens proximally close to the base via a conductor and is not present over the whole range of the sperm carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sperm morphology of two predatory bugs Amphiareus constrictus and Blaptostethus pallescens , representing the tribes Dufouriellini and Blasptostethini, respectively, was described using light and transmission electron microscopy. The spermatozoa of Amphiareus constrictus and Blaptostethus pallescens are fine and long, each measuring 216.6 μm and 181.0 μm in length, of which 37.0 μm and 11.6 μm, respectively, comprise the nuclei. When stained with DAPI (for DNA), the posterior half of the nucleus in B. pallescens exhibited low fluorescence, while in A. constrictus this feature was observed only in the last 6 μm. In both species, as in Heteroptera in general, the spermatozoa have, in the head region, an acrosome and nucleus, and in the flagellar region, an axoneme with 9 accessory tubules, 9 peripheral doublets and 2 central microtubules (9 + 9 + 2 microtubules), 2 mitochondrial derivatives (MDs), and a centriolar adjunct in the nucleus-flagellum transition. However, unlike most Heteroptera, in these species, the MDs are asymmetric, and the centriolar adjunct is quite long and encompasses completely the posterior nuclear end and the anterior tips of the MDs. These features are considered as derived, thus supporting the condition derived of Anthocoridae within Cimicomorpha. In addition, several traits of the spermatozoa of these two species easily distinguish one species (and probably a tribe) from the other; for example, the difference of formats in the MDs, and the long anterior projection of the centriolar adjunct parallel to the nucleus in B. pallescens . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: I.V. and perineural dexamethasone have both been found to prolong loco-regional analgesia compared with controls without dexamethasone. It is unclear whether perineural administration offers advantages when compared with i.v. dexamethasone.Methods: A systematic literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled double-blind trials that compared i.v. with perineural dexamethasone in patients undergoing surgery. Using the random effects model, risk ratio (for binary variables), weighted mean difference (for continuous variables) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. We applied trial sequential analysis to assess the risks of type I and II error, meta-regression for the study of the doseresponsive relationship, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system.Results: We identified 10 randomized controlled double-blind trials (783 patients). When using conventional meta-analysis of nine low risk of bias trials, we found a statistically significantly longer duration of analgesia, our primary outcome with perineural dexamethasone (241 min, 95%CI, 87, 394 min). When trial sequential analysis was applied, this result was confirmed. Meta-regression did not show a dose-response relationship. Despite the precision in the results, using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system (GRADE), we assessed the quality of the evidence for our primary outcome as low.Conclusions: There is evidence that perineural dexamethasone prolongs the duration of analgesia compared with i.v. dexamethasone. Using GRADE, this evidence is low quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To conduct a systematic review of the literature on valid and reliable multidimensional instruments to assess home health needs of older persons. Design Systematic review. Data source Electronic databases, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scientific Electronic Library Online and the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Information. Review methods All English, Portuguese and Spanish literature which included studies of reliability and validity of instruments that assessed at least two dimensions: physical, psychological, social support and functional independence, self-rated health behaviors and contextual environment and if such instruments proposed interventions after evaluation and/or monitoring changes over a period of time. Participants Older persons aged 60 years or older. Results Of the 2397 studies identified, 32 were considered eligible. Two-thirds of the instruments proposed the physical, psychological, social support and functional independence dimensions. Inter-observer and intra-observer reliability and internal consistency values were 0.7 or above. More than two-thirds of the studies included validity (n = 26) and more than one validity was tested in 15% (n = 4) of these. Only 7% (n = 2) proposed interventions after evaluation and/or monitoring changes over a period of time. Conclusion Although the multidimensional assessment was performed, and the reliability values of the reviewed studies were satisfactory, different validity tests were not present in several studies. A gap at the instrument conception was observed related to interventions after evaluation and/or monitoring changes over a period of time. Further studies with this purpose are necessary for home health needs of the older persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical indicators assess healthcare structures, processes, and outcomes. While used widely, the exact number and level of scientific evidence of these indicators remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the number, type, and evidence base of clinical process and structure indicators currently available for quality and safety measurement in perioperative care.Methods: We performed a systematic review searching Medline, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane, Google Scholar, and System for Information in Grey Literature in Europe databases for English language human studies in adults (age >18) published in the past 10 years (January 2005-January 2016). We also included professional and governmental body publications and guidelines describing the development, validation, and use of structure and process indicators in perioperative care.Results: We identified 43 860 journal articles and 43 relevant indicator program publications. From these, we identified a total of 1282 clinical indicators, split into structure (36%, n=463) and process indicators (64%, n=819). The dimensions of quality most frequently addressed were effectiveness (38%, n=475) and patient safety (29%, n=363). The majority of indicators (53%, n=675) did not have a level of evidence ascribed in their literature. Patient-centred metrics accounted for the fewest published clinical indicators.Conclusions: Despite widespread use, the majority of clinical indicators are not based on a strong level of scientific evidence. There may be scope in setting standards for the development and validation process of clinical indicators. Most indicators focus on the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of care.Prospero Database: CRD4201501277. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review investigated 5 frequently used nutrition screening tools (NSTs) used in hospitals and their effectiveness at identifying malnutrition risk in the elderly. A literature review was conducted to obtain research articles focused on malnutrition screening in hospitalized elderly and effectiveness of the NST used. Twenty six articles were reviewed and evaluated, resulting in 8 that met inclusion criteria. The Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, designed for use in the elderly, resulted in overestimation of malnutrition. Four screening tools did demonstrate more effectiveness in identifying malnutrition risk; however, several different biochemical and anthropometric parameters were used, which prevented meaningful comparisons. There is a need for a universal NST “gold standard” for use in the elderly, and further research is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Many patients report being able to predict their own seizures, and yet most seizures appear to strike out of the blue. This inherent contradiction makes the topic of seizure self-prediction controversial as well as difficult to study. Here we review the evidence for whether this ability exists, how many patients are capable of self-prediction and the nature of this capability, and whether this could provide a target for intervention.Methods: Systematic searches of bibliographic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO through OVID were performed to identify relevant papers which were then screened by the study authors for inclusion in the study. 18 papers were selected for inclusion as the focus of this review.Results: On the basis of two studies, between 17% and 41% of patients demonstrate a significantly greater than chance ability to predict an upcoming seizure in the following 12-h time window. This risk is correlated with self-reported anxiety, stress, sleep deprivation, mood and certain prodromal symptoms. However, there is no evidence for any subjective experience which directly heralds an imminent seizure. Thus, while patients may be aware of seizure risk, and have some ability to predict seizure occurrence over a wide time window, they are unable to subjectively recognise seizure onset in advance.Conclusion: Utilising subjectively acquired knowledge of seizure risk may provide a widely implementable tool for targeted intervention. The risk fluctuates over a time course appropriate for pharmacotherapy which may improve seizure control and the side-effect profile of anti-epileptic medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, several tumor biomarkers have been suggested to foresee the prognosis oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Here, we present a systematic review to identify, evaluate and summarize the evidence for OSCC reported markers. Eligible studies were identified through a literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed until January 2016. We included primary articlesreporting overall survival, disease-free survival and cause-specific survival as outcomes. Our findings were analysed using REporting recommendations for tumor MARKer prognostic studies (REMARK), QuickGo tool and SciCurve trends. We found 41 biomarkers, mostly proteins evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The selected studies are of good quality, although, any study referred to a sample size determination. Considering the lack of follow-up studies, the molecules are still potential biomarkers. Further research is required to validate these biomarkers in well-designed clinical cohort-based studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the soft-to-hard tissue ratio using 3D analysis in different types of orthognathic surgery. Material and methods A systematic search for relevant studies published in different languages through December 2016 was performed in the Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. Additional studies were identified by reference analysis. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the method proposed by the Effective Public Health Practice Project. The level of evidence was assessed using the Level of Evidence (LOE) scale from the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine. Results A total of 11 articles with 461 patients were included in the review, comprising 5 retrospective study and 6 prospective studies. The latter included 5 studies that performed anatomical area analyses of postoperative soft tissue results in the context of software-based planned surgeries without regard to hard tissues and 6 articles that presented analyses related to soft tissue in the preoperative and postoperative stage with certain points to be considered in hard tissues. The analysis of bias in the articles revealed a weak methodology in all included studies, which made it impossible to perform any type of comparison. Conclusion Bias governs many of the published studies related to 3D analysis. There are no data that can be applied to determine the soft-to-hard tissue ratio using 3D analysis in orthognathic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viscoelastic point-of-care tests are commonly used to provide prompt diagnosis of coagulopathy and allow targeted treatments in bleeding patients. We updated existing meta-analyses that have evaluated the clinical effectiveness of viscoelastic point-of-care tests vs the current standard of care for the management of cardiac surgery patients at risk of coagulopathic bleeding. Randomized controlled trials comparing viscoelastic point-of-care diagnostic testing with standard care in cardiac surgery patients were sought. All-cause mortality, blood loss, reoperation, blood transfusion, major morbidity, and intensive care unit and hospital length of stay were analysed using random-effects modelling. Fifteen trials that randomized a total of 8737 participants were included for the analysis. None of the trials was classified as low risk of bias. The use of thromboelastography- (TEG®) or thromboelastometry (ROTEM®)-guided algorithms did not reduce mortality [risk ratio (RR) 0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28-1.10] without heterogeneity (I2=1%), reoperation for bleeding, stroke, ventilation time, or hospital length of stay compared with standard care. Use of TEG® or ROTEM® resulted in reductions in the frequency of red blood cell (Risk Ratio 0.88, 95% Confidence Interval 0.79-0.97; I2=43%) and platelet transfusion (Risk Ratio 0.78, 95% Confidence Interval 0.66-0.93; I2=0%). Group Reading Assessment and Diagnostic Evaluation (GRADE) assessment demonstrated that the quality of the evidence was low or very low for all estimated outcomes. Routine use of viscoelastic point-of-care tests did not improve important clinical outcomes beyond transfusion in adults undergoing cardiac surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Indigenous populations of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States of America (USA) experience a higher prevalence of arthritis conditions. Differences in clinical outcomes and mortality may reflect healthcare service use inequities. The objective of this study was to summarize healthcare service use patterns described in the existing literature in order to identify gaps and inform strategies to limit the pronounced negative impact of arthritis on Indigenous populations. Methods Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Indigenous-specific electronic databases (to June 2015) were used to identify cohort, case–control and cross-sectional studies describing healthcare service use by Indigenous populations with specified inflammatory arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatic disease conditions. We extracted information on the study setting and methodology, primary outcome and assessed study quality, and risk of bias. Results In total, 19 studies were identified describing three types of healthcare service use: physician visits, hospitalizations, and surgeries. In Canada and New Zealand, Indigenous populations had 36–51% fewer visits to specialists than the non-Indigenous population. Indigenous populations in Canada, New Zealand, and the USA had 37–300% more hospitalizations due to arthritis complications than the non-Indigenous population. Indigenous populations in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand had 27–85% fewer arthroplasties for osteoarthritis than the non-Indigenous population. Conclusions Indigenous populations had higher hospitalization rates but lower use of specialized services for arthritis conditions. Strategies to improve access to specialized arthritis services might reduce health outcome inequities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous risk prediction models are available for predicting delirium after cardiac surgery, but few have been directly compared with one another or been validated in an independent data set. We conducted a systematic review to identify validated risk prediction models of delirium (using the Confusion Assessment Method-Intensive Care Unit tool) after cardiac surgery and assessed the transportability of the risk prediction models on a prospective cohort of 600 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery at a university hospital in Hong Kong from July 2013 to July 2015. The discrimination (c-statistic), calibration (GiViTI calibration belt), and clinical usefulness (decision curve analysis) of the risk prediction models were examined in a stepwise manner. Three published high-quality intensive care unit delirium risk prediction models (n=5939) were identified: Katznelson, the original PRE-DELIRIC, and the international recalibrated PRE-DELIRIC model. Delirium occurred in 83 patients (13.8%, 95% CI: 11.2-16.9%). After updating the intercept and regression coefficients in the Katznelson model, there was fair discrimination (0.62, 95% CI: 0.58-0.66) and good calibration. As the original PRE-DELIRIC model was already validated externally and recalibrated in six countries, we performed a logistic calibration on the recalibrated model and found acceptable discrimination (0.75, 95% CI: 0.72-0.79) and good calibration. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the recalibrated PRE-DELIRIC risk model was marginally more clinically useful than the Katznelson model. Current models predict delirium risk in the intensive care unit after cardiac surgery with only fair to moderate accuracy and are insufficient for routine clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well understood that the success or failure of a mass drug administration campaign critically depends on the level of coverage achieved. To that end coverage levels are often closely scrutinised during campaigns and the response to underperforming campaigns is to attempt to improve coverage. Modelling work has indicated, however, that the quality of the coverage achieved may also have a significant impact on the outcome. If the coverage achieved is likely to miss similar people every round then this can have a serious detrimental effect on the campaign outcome. We begin by reviewing the current modelling descriptions of this effect and introduce a new modelling framework that can be used to simulate a given level of systematic non-adherence. We formalise the likelihood that people may miss several rounds of treatment using the correlation in the attendance of different rounds. Using two very simplified models of the infection of helminths and non-helminths, respectively, we demonstrate that the modelling description used and the correlation included between treatment rounds can have a profound effect on the time to elimination of disease in a population. It is therefore clear that more detailed coverage data is required to accurately predict the time to disease elimination. We review published coverage data in which individuals are asked how many previous rounds they have attended, and show how this information may be used to assess the level of systematic non-adherence. We note that while the coverages in the data found range from 40.5% to 95.5%, still the correlations found lie in a fairly narrow range (between 0.2806 and 0.5351). This indicates that the level of systematic non-adherence may be similar even in data from different years, countries, diseases and administered drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common complication of herpes zoster. Pain medications have shown benefit, however many patients do not achieve adequate pain relief. Oral Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been used for people with PHN but its benefit is unclear. This review examined the efficacy and safety of oral CHM alone or as add-on therapy for PHN. Methods Nine English and Chinese databases were searched from their inceptions to March 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating oral CHM for PHN were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool. Data were analysed using Review Manager software. Results Twelve RCTs involving 853 participants were included with low to moderate quality based on risk of bias assessment. Oral CHM as an add-on intervention to pharmacotherapy improved visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score (MD −1.88 cm [−3.34 to −0.42], I 2 = 98%), and scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) (MD −2.45 points [−3.70 to −1.20], I 2 = 13%) compared with pharmacotherapy alone. Significant changes from baseline were seen for all groups. No severe adverse events were reported. Conclusions These findings suggested that oral CHM in addition to pharmacotherapy may be beneficial for patients with PHN. Oral CHM alone or combined with pharmacotherapy appeared to be safe. More high quality trials with rigorous research methods are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Watermains are both directly and indirectly affected by climatic conditions such as temperature and precipitation. Research has been conducted to understand and model the effects of climatic conditions on watermain breaks. However, review studies to map the knowledge development in this area, to identify key achievements and limitations of previous studies are missing, and are addressed in this study. This review uses a mixed systematic and scientometric analysis to establish the research trends, contributions, methods, and covariates employed by previous studies related to climatic impacts on watermain deterioration. Web of Science and Scopus database is primarily employed to identify 70 relevant studies on the subject matter. These studies have been mostly conducted by institutions based in Canada, USA, and Europe. There is a general lack of collaboration among different institutions conducting research in this area. Studies in the subject matter are published from 1982 onwards, however, significant number of studies per year can only be noticed from 2005 onwards. Previous studies have been mostly focused on the modelling of watermain failure and have used statistical methods, and data-driven and artificial intelligence (AI) approaches for failure modelling of watermains under climatic conditions. For testing and validation of research data, studies have employed correlation analysis, performance evaluation metrics, and descriptive statistics. Typically, climate-related variables used in studies include temperature, moisture, and precipitation. Reviewed studies have considered cold (66%), hot (31%), and dry (13%) climatic conditions. Studies have investigated watermains made of metal (56%), plastics (43%), and Concrete and Asbestos cement (31%). Future studies are recommended to consider Data-driven and AI approaches in research design; pay attention to watermains in climatically vulnerable and massively populated regions; and consider climate risk assessment and the impact of climate change and extreme weather conditions on watermains. [Display omitted] • Scientometric and systematic review conducted for papers on water main deterioration published from 1982 to 2022 • Reviewed studies mostly focused on failure modelling of water mains under climatic conditions • Water main breaks are affected by temperature, moisture, and precipitation • Lack of research collaboration found among investigators, institutes, and countries • Recommendations provided to enhance breadth and depth of research on climatic impact on water mains [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are growing application of machine learning models to study the intricacies of non-linear and non-stationary characteristics of electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) data in neurobiologically complex and heterogeneous conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Such tools have potential diagnostic applications, and given the highly heterogeneous presentation of ASD, might prove fruitful in early detection and therefore could facilitate very early intervention. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO ID#CRD42021257438) by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and PsychINFO for machine learning approaches for EEG and MEG analyses in ASD. Thirty-nine studies were identified, of which the majority (18) used support vector machines for classification; other successful methods included deep learning. Thirty-seven studies were found to employ EEG and two were found to employ MEG. This systematic review indicate that machine learning methods can be used to classify ASD, predict ASD diagnosis in high-risk infants as early as 3 months of age, predict ASD symptom severity, and classify states of cognition in ASD with high accuracy. Replication studies testing validity, reproducibility and generalizability in tandem with randomized controlled trials in ASD populations will likely benefit the field. • There are growing applications of machine learning models in complex conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). • Machine learning methods have potential diagnostic applications, given the highly heterogeneous presentation of ASD. • We identified that machine learning can be used to predict ASD diagnosis in high-risk infants as early as 3 months of age. • Machine learning methods can predict ASD symptom severity and classify states of cognition in ASD with high accuracy. • Replication studies testing validity, reproducibility and generalizability in ASD populations will likely benefit the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hybrid powertrain is one of the most important technologies that have been developed to satisfy the challenging of fuel economy and emission standards. In recent studies, various types of hybrid vehicles have been proposed. As is well known, a suitable configuration should not only meet the requirements of vehicle kinematics and dynamics, but also meet the requirement of fuel economy and emission. In this paper, the hybrid powertrain system is regarded as a system with multiple power sources. Also, a systematic design and analysis method is proposed, which is based on kinematic degree of freedom and static degree of freedom. The method proposed in this paper provides a new viewpoint for the configuration design and analysis of hybrid power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]