bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequences of screening in colorectal cancer (COS-CRC): development and dimensionality of a questionnaire
Authors: Malmqvist Jessica , Siersma Volkert , Bang Christine Winther , Brodersen John
Published: January 2021

Background

Harms of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening include psychosocial consequences. We have not identified studies using a participant-relevant questionnaire with adequate measurement properties to investigate these harms. However, Brodersen et al. have previously developed a core questionnaire consequences of screening (COS) for use in screening for life-threatening diseases. Therefore, the objectives were: (1) To investigate content validity of COS in a CRC screening setting and in case of gaps in content coverage (2) generate new items and themes and (3) test the possibly extended version of COS for dimensionality and differential item functioning (DIF) using Rasch Models.

Methods

We performed two-part-focus-groups with CRC screenees. Screenees were recruited by strategic sampling. In the first part 16 screenees with false-positive results (n = 7) and low-risk polyps (n = 9) were interviewed about their CRC screening experiences and in the second part COS was examined for content validity. When new information was developed in the focus groups, new items covering this topic were generated. Subsequently, new items were, together with COS, tested in the subsequent interviews. A random subsample (n = 410) from a longitudinal questionnaire study, not yet published, was used to form the data for this paper. We analysed multidimensionality and uniform DIF with Andersen’s conditional likelihood ratio test. We assessed individual item fit to the model. We also analysed Local Dependence (LD) and DIF by partial gamma coefficients using Rasch Models.

Results

COS was found relevant in a CRC screening setting. However, new information was discovered in the focus groups, covered by 18 new CRC screening-specific items. The Rasch analyses only revealed minor problems in the COS-scales. The 18 new items were distributed on four new CRC screening-specific dimensions and one single item.

Conclusion

An extended version of COS specifically for use in a CRC screening setting has been developed. The extended part encompasses four new scales and one new single item. The original COS with the CRC-screening specific extension is called consequences of screening in colorectal cancer (COS-CRC). COS-CRC possessed reliability, unidimensionality and invariant measurement.
Iodine-related attenuation in contrast-enhanced dual-energy computed tomography in small-sized solid-type lung cancers is associated with the postoperative prognosis
Authors: Iwano Shingo , Kamiya Shinichiro , Ito Rintaro , Nakamura Shota , Naganawa Shinji
Published: January 2021

Background

To investigate the correlation between iodine-related attenuation in contrast-enhanced dual-energy computed tomography (DE-CT) and the postoperative prognosis of surgically resected solid-type small-sized lung cancers.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the DE-CT findings and postoperative course of solid-type lung cancers ≤3 cm in diameter. After injection of iodinated contrast media, arterial phases were scanned using 140-kVp and 80-kVp tube voltages. Three-dimensional iodine-related attenuation (3D-IRA) of primary tumors at the arterial phase was computed using the “lung nodule” application software. The corrected 3D-IRA normalized to the patient’s body weight and contrast medium concentration was then calculated.

Results

A total of 120 resected solid-type lung cancers ≤3 cm in diameter were selected for analysis (82 males and 38 females; mean age, 67 years). During the observation period (median, 47 months), 32 patients showed postoperative recurrence. Recurrent tumors had significantly lower 3D-IRA and corrected 3D-IRA at early phase compared to non-recurrent tumors (p = 0.046 and p = 0.027, respectively). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for postoperative recurrence was 0.624 for the corrected 3D-IRA at early phase (p = 0.025), and the cutoff value was 5.88. Kaplan–Meier curves for disease-free survival indicated that patients showing tumors with 3D-IRA > 5.88 had a significantly better prognosis than those with tumors showing 3D-IRA < 5.88 (p = 0.017).

Conclusions

The 3D-IRA of small-sized solid-type lung cancers on contrast-enhanced DE-CT was significantly associated with postoperative prognosis, and low 3D-IRA tumors showed a higher TNM stage and a significantly poorer prognosis.
Magnetic resonance diffusion kurtosis imaging in differential diagnosis of benign and malignant renal tumors
Authors: Fu Jianxiong , Ye Jing , Zhu Wenrong , Wu Jingtao , Chen Wenxin , Zhu Qingqiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Benign and malignant renal tumors share similar some imaging findings.

Methods

Sixty-six patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC), 13 patients with renal angiomyolipoma with minimal fat (RAMF) and 7 patients with renal oncocytoma (RO) were examined. For diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), respiratory triggered echo-planar imaging sequences were acquired in axial plane (3 b-values: 0, 500, 1000s/mm2). Mean Diffusivity (MD), fractional Anisotropy (FA), mean kurtosis (MK), kurtosis anisotropy (KA) and radial kurtosis (RK) were performed.

Results

For MD, a significant higher value was shown in CCRCC (3.08 ± 0.23) than the rest renal tumors (2.93 ± 0.30 for RO, 1.52 ± 0.24 for AML, P < 0.05). The MD values were higher for RO than for AML (2.93 ± 0.30 vs.1.52 ± 0.24, P < 0.05), while comparable MD values were found between CCRCC and RO (3.08 ± 0.23 vs. 2.93 ± 0.30, P > 0.05). For MK, KA and RK, a significant higher value was shown in AML (1.32 ± 0.16, 1.42 ± 0.23, 1.41 ± 0.29) than CCRCC (0.43 ± 0.08, 0.57 ± 0.16, 0.37 ± 0.11) and RO (0.81 ± 0.08, 0.86 ± 0.16, 0.69 ± 0.08) (P < 0.05). The MK, KA and RK values were higher for RO than for CCRCC (0.81 ± 0.08 vs. 0.43 ± 0.08, 0.86 ± 0.16 vs. 0.57 ± 0.16, 0.69 ± 0.08 vs. 0.37 ± 0.11, P < 0.05). Using MD values of 2.86 as the threshold value for differentiating CCRCC from RO and AML, the best result obtained had a sensitivity of 76.1%, specificity of 72.6%. Using MK, KA and RK values of 1.19,1.13 and 1.11 as the threshold value for differentiating AML from CCRCC and RO, the best result obtained had a sensitivity of 91.2, 86.7, 82.1%, and specificity of 86.7, 83.2, 72.8%.

Conclusion

DKI can be used as another noninvasive biomarker for benign and malignant renal tumors’ differential diagnosis.
Multi-curie production of gallium-68 on a biomedical cyclotron and automated radiolabelling of PSMA-11 and DOTATATE
Authors: Thisgaard Helge , Kumlin Joel , Langkjær Niels , Chua Jansen , Hook Brian , Jensen Mikael , Kassaian Amir , Zeisler Stefan , Borjian Sogol , Cross Michael , Schaffer Paul , Dam Johan Hygum
Published: January 2021

Background

With increasing clinical demand for gallium-68, commercial germanium-68/gallium-68 ([68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga) generators are incapable of supplying sufficient amounts of the short-lived daughter isotope. In this study, we demonstrate a high-yield, automated method for producing multi-Curie levels of [68Ga]GaCl3 from solid zinc-68 targets and subsequent labelling to produce clinical-grade [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and [68Ga]Ga-DOTATATE.

Results

Enriched zinc-68 targets were irradiated at up to 80 µA with 13 MeV protons for 120 min; repeatedly producing up to 194 GBq (5.24 Ci) of purified gallium-68 in the form of [68Ga]GaCl3 at the end of purification (EOP) from an expected > 370 GBq (> 10 Ci) at end of bombardment. A fully automated dissolution/separation process was completed in 35 min. Isolated product was analysed according to the Ph. Eur. monograph for accelerator produced [68Ga]GaCl3 and found to comply with all specifications. In every instance, the radiochemical purity exceeded 99.9% and importantly, the radionuclidic purity was sufficient to allow for a shelf-life of up to 7 h based on this metric alone. Fully automated production of up to 72.2 GBq [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 was performed, providing a product with high radiochemical purity (> 98.2%) and very high apparent molar activities of up to 722 MBq/nmol. Further, manual radiolabelling of up to 3.2 GBq DOTATATE was performed in high yields (> 95%) and with apparent molar activities (9–25 MBq/nmol) sufficient for clinical use.

Conclusions

We have developed a high-yielding, automated method for the production of very high amounts of [68Ga]GaCl3, sufficient to supply proximal radiopharmacies. The reported method led to record-high purified gallium-68 activities (194 GBq at end of purification) and subsequent labelling of PSMA-11 and DOTATATE. The process was highly automated from irradiation through to formulation of the product, and as such comprised a high level of radiation protection. The quality control results obtained for both [68Ga]GaCl3 for radiolabelling and [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 are promising for clinical use.
Patient-reported burden of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis on functioning and well-being
Authors: Lovley Andrew , Raymond Kimberly , Guthrie Spencer D. , Pollock Michael , Sanchorawala Vaishali , White Michelle K.
Published: January 2021

Background

Hereditary transthyretin (hATTR) amyloidosis is a rare, systemic, progressive, and life-threatening disease in which transthyretin proteins misfold and aggregate as insoluble amyloid deposits, disrupting nervous, cardiac, gastrointestinal, and other organ tissues. There are limited available data about the experience of patients living with hATTR amyloidosis. This study used a qualitative, non-interventional design to explore the humanistic burden of hATTR amyloidosis from the patient’s perspective.

Results

Fourteen adults with hATTR amyloidosis, recruited from a patient advocacy group or an academic clinical center, participated in individual semi-structured interviews either in person or by telephone. Patients were asked to describe their experiences living with the condition, including symptoms and disease-related impacts on functioning and well-being, work, and activities of daily living (ADLs). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed for key concepts using a grounded theory approach.

Patients described many symptoms of hATTR amyloidosis, particularly those associated with peripheral neuropathy such as pain, numbness, weakness, and paresthesia. Symptoms of autonomic neuropathy, such as gastrointestinal dysfunction, and symptoms related to cardiac dysfunction were also common. Worsening symptoms, especially those impacting patients’ ability to walk or use their hands, often led to a loss of autonomy and an inability to work or perform ADLs. Disease-related disability also interfered with patients’ participation in social activities, and contributed to feelings of fear, frustration, or sadness.

Conclusions

The impacts of hATTR amyloidosis were profound for the patients interviewed for this study. They described a sense of loss as their condition progressed and impacted them physically, emotionally, and socially. Patients’ reports of symptoms and impacts of hATTR amyloidosis illustrate the complex and varied manifestations of this disease. The progression of symptoms and increasing impacts of hATTR amyloidosis also highlight the need for an earlier diagnosis and effective clinical intervention to preserve patients’ functioning and well-being.
The effect of sesame intake on adult albino rat testis during sildenafil long-term administration
Authors: Goweder Fawzia M. , Abu El-Nasr T. M. , El-Sayed A. A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Sildenafil (Viagra) is widely used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction under various etiologies. Unfortunately, chronic administration of sildenafil negatively affects fertility. The aim of the present study is to investigate the improvement role of sesame on the testis alterations caused by long-term administration of sildenafil on albino rats.

Results

Light microscopically observations showed that overdoses of sildenafil had provoked tubular and interstitial histological alterations. Tubular degeneration and abnormality in the germinal epithelium of the seminiferous tubules included spermatocyte degeneration and arrest of spermatogenesis. Sperm count and motility were negatively affected by sildenafil. These alterations were improved by sesame feeding.

Conclusion

Sesame intake improve the side effects of prolonged treatment with sildenafil significantly. These results demonstrate the pivotal role of sesame that may improve male infertility.
Topiramate-induced ocular side effects in Egyptian patients, idiosyncratic versus dose-dependent effect, a prospective study
Authors: Thabit Mohamed N. , Farouk Mahmoud Mohamed
Published: January 2021

Background

To test the nature of the ocular side effects induced by topiramate (TPM) whether dose dependent or idiosyncratic, and to test various predictors that might influence the occurrence of those side effects.

Methods

Twenty patients treated with TPM were included in this study. Patients underwent ophthalmic assessment before and after 4 weeks of treatment by stable doses of oral TPM. We examined non-cycloplegic refraction (RF) in diopters, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) in mmHg, and anterior chamber depth (ACD) in mm.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between baseline and follow-up assessments in all tested ophthalmological parameters including errors of RF, ACD, IOP, and the BCVA. One case suffered from painful drop of vision in both eyes with elevated IOP and decreased ACD, and evident myopic shift 1 week after treatment with small dose of TPM. There was no significant effect of age, TPM dose, disease, and gender on all tested variables.

Conclusion

TPM can induce idiosyncratic, but not dose dependent, ocular side effects, namely myopic shifts and angle closure glaucoma. Those side effects were not disease, age, or gender dependent. However, ethnicity might play a role in induction of those side effects.
Impact of indoxacarb and sulphur formulation on aphid and three specific predators in Okra fields
Authors: Gesraha M. A. , Ebeid Amany R.
Published: January 2021

Background

For the sake of environmental safety, many new insecticide generations developed. Sulphur formulations and other botanicals or formulated synthetic insecticides were recommended in many integrated pest management programs to protect, particularly, edible vegetables and fruit trees from insect and mite pests as well as plant pathogenic diseases. Such formulations, at the recommended application rates, proved to be safer for mammals. Regarding their safety to beneficial arthropods, diversified results were reported. This study was designed to investigate and evaluate the impact of indoxacarb and sulphur formulation against some natural enemies naturally prevailing in some vegetable crops.

Results

Application of indoxacarb and sulphur formulation in Okra fields to control aphid was carried out. The adverse effects of these applications against some important predators were investigated. The obtained results revealed that indoxacarb was more effective than sulphur application in all treatments. At the end of the experiment, the percentages of population reductions of Coccinella indoxacarb treatment reached ≈ 92 and 76% for larvae and adults, respectively. The corresponding figures for Chrysoperla were ≈ 79 and 82% for larvae and adults, respectively. Indoxacarb-induced reduction in the Paederus population reached about 80%, while sulphur formulation had negative effects. Both indoxacarb and sulphur formulations were harmful to the aphid, inducing about 97 and 26% reduction, respectively, for the mean number of aphid populations.

Conclusion

It could be concluded that indoxacarb is more hazardous towards different natural enemies prevailing naturally in open fields at anywhere season round the year, and care must be in consideration when we choose and select some insecticides to kill or to eradicate pests and simultaneously conserve the natural enemies.
Catalytical degradation of industrial dyes using biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles and evaluating its antimicrobial activities
Authors: Menon Soumya , Agarwal Happy , Shanmugam Venkat Kumar
Published: January 2021

The release of textile dyes from the industries to the environment has become a significant health issue to humans and their surroundings, where a large number of dyes are wasted to the nearby water during the dyeing process. Therefore, the practice of the utilization of biosynthesized nanoparticles from numerous biological systems has been described, out of which plant material is considered the most appropriate method. The usage of plant material not only makes the procedure ecological but also their abundance makes it more cost-effective. The present study aims to biologically produce selenium nanoparticle using Mucuna pruriens seed powder and apply it in the degradation of dyes and removal of pathogenic bacterial cultures from pathogen-containing lake water using an optimum concentration of selenium nanoparticles. The production of selenium nanoparticles was characterized via visual coloration from colorless to brown solution which was checked using UV–Visible spectrophotometer, the crystalline structure was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, the morphology was analyzed with transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, which was in the range of 90–120 nm, with stable spherical monodisperse characteristics. The surface potential was checked using zeta potential, while the Atomic Force Microscopy gave information on the roughness of the nanoparticles, and the presence of –OH, −COO, aromatic groups were confirmed with Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were then analyzed for its environmental applications, like degradation of dyes from industrial wastes and checking its antimicrobial activities.
Proliferation of household waste irregular dumpsites in Niger Delta region (Nigeria): unsustainable public health monitoring and future restitution
Authors: Okpara Donatus A. , Kharlamova Marianna , Grachev Vladimir
Published: January 2021

Inadequate collection and improper disposal of municipal waste have a direct negative impact on cities. Disease occurrence in Obio-Akpor (Port Harcourt metropolis, Nigeria) was suspected and linked to the proliferation of dumpsites and proximity to residential households. Evidence showed frequent incidence of diseases outbreak coupled with the topographic coastal nature and the morphological propelling dynamics of sediments transport in the area assisting the situation. The main objective of this study was to assess how the spatial distribution of irregular dumpsites is linked to the disease occurrence (cholera, diarrhoea and malaria) in the community. The data used for the study was obtained through questionnaires administrated at the hospitals, use of GPS for locating disease incidences and waste dumps, interviews and observations. Point pattern analysis using the G-function and the K-function was employed in analyzing the spatial distribution of dumpsites and disease incidences. Correlation tests were performed to test for the relationship between disease incidences and presence of dumpsites. The results showed that there was a significant relationship (p < 0.05) between disease incidences and presence of dumpsites. It was also observed that diseases could occur in areas where dumpsites were not present as cholera and diarrhoea are contagious but malaria is not, though it spreads. The study will be beneficial to governmental agencies, waste managers, institutions, environmentalists, health, social workers and future researchers.
Outcomes of one-stage reconstruction for chronic multiligament injuries of knee
Authors: Goyal Tarun , Paul Souvik , Banerjee Sushovan , Das Lakshmana
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This article aims to evaluate patterns of chronic multiligament injuries and outcomes of treatment with single-stage reconstruction using autografts.

Methods

All patients with clinicoradiologically diagnosed multiligament knee injury (MKI) were included in this prospective observational study. As the time since injury was more than 6 weeks in all of the patients, they were categorized as having chronic MKI. Patients were assessed clinically for laxity, and the diagnosis was confirmed radiologically. Ipsilateral hamstring tendons were used for medial collateral ligament (MCL) or posterolateral corner reconstruction in a patient with Schenck knee dislocation (KD) type III. In these cases, the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) were reconstructed by using the peroneus longus and contralateral hamstring tendons respectively. Ipsilateral hamstring tendons were used for ACL reconstruction and an ipsilateral peroneus longus tendon graft was used for reconstruction of the PCL in a KD type II injury. In two cases of KD type IV injury, the lateral laxity was only grade II and was managed conservatively; the rest of the ligaments were addressed like a KD type III injury. Outcome evaluation was done using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity level, preoperatively and postoperatively at 2 years’ follow-up.

Results

A total of 27 patients of mean age 33.48 ± 9.9 years with MKI were included in the study. The patients were classified as eight KD type II, 17 KD type III, and two KD type IV. The majority of the patients had associated meniscal (59.2%) or chondral (40.7%) injuries. At the 2 years’ follow-up visit, there were significant improvements in VAS score (p = 0.0001) IKDC score (p = 0.0001), Lysholm score (p = 0.0001), and range of motion (p = 0.001). None of the patients had residual laxity on clinical examination of the knee joint at the 2 years’ follow-up. All but two of the patients went back to their previous activity level. These two patients had progressive knee arthritis and needed knee arthroplasty.

Conclusion

Single-stage surgical reconstruction for chronic MKI has favourable functional outcomes.

Level of evidence

Level IV, case series.
Effect of a phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation program on obese and non-obese patients with stable coronary artery disease
Authors: El Missiri Ahmed , Abdel Halim Walaa Adel , Almaweri Abdo Saleh , Mohamed Tarek Rashid
Published: January 2021

Background

Obesity is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality effects. Cardiac rehabilitation programs cause a significant reduction in cardiovascular mortality and a reduction in all cardiovascular risk factors. Up to 80% of patients referred to cardiac rehabilitation programs are either overweight or obese. This study aimed to compare the effects of a phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation program on obese and non-obese patients with stable coronary artery disease following total revascularization by coronary angioplasty.

Results

This was a prospective study including 120 patients with stable coronary artery disease. Patients were enrolled in a 12-week phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation program. Patients were classified into two groups based on their body mass index (BMI): those with a BMI < 30 kg/m2 were considered non-obese (n = 58) while those with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 were considered obese (n = 62). At baseline, BMI and blood pressure (BP) were recorded; fasting blood sugar, triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were assessed; and echocardiography was used to measure left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). These were re-assessed after completion of the program. At baseline, there were more females in the obese group 20 (32.25%) vs 6 (10.13%) (p = 0.04), more hypertensives (p = 0.023), and less smokers 32 (51%) vs 46 (79%) (p = 0.025). Obese patients achieved fewer metabolic equivalent of tasks (METs) 7.97 ± 2.4 vs 9.74 ± 2.47 (p = 0.007) and had higher LDL-C levels 121.63 ± 36.52 mg/dl vs 95.73 ± 31.51 mg/dl (p = 0.005). At the end of the program, obese patients showed more reduction in BMI − 1.78 ± 1.46 kg/m2 vs − 0. 60 ± 0.70 kg/m2 (p < 0.001) and systolic and diastolic BP (p = 0.016 and 0.038, respectively). LDL-C level was more reduced in the obese group − 25.76 ± 14.19 mg/dl vs − 17.37 ± 13.28 mg/dl (p = 0.022). Non-obese patients had more increase in LVEF (p = 0.024). There was no difference between obese and non-obese patients in the magnitude of increase in METs achieved (p = 0.21).

Conclusion

Cardiac rehabilitation programs lead to an improvement in cardiovascular disease risk factors with more reduction in BMI, BP, and LDL-C levels in obese patients compared to non-obese ones. LVEF was more increased in non-obese individuals. Exercise capacity in the form of METs achieved was equally improved in both groups.
Klippel-Feil syndrome with multiple skeletal anomalies, Dandy-Walker spectrum, and occipital cephalocele—a rare presentation
Authors: Shoaib Mohammad , Swarup M. Sarthak , Pradhan Gaurav
Published: January 2021

Background

Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a congenital malformation causing fusion of at least two cervical vertebrae and characterized clinically by presence of triad of short neck, limited neck movements, and low posterior hair line. Various skeletal and non-skeletal anomalies may be seen in association with KFS.

Case presentation

We present a case of 6-year-old boy of KFS with various skeletal anomalies such as multiple segmentation and formation anomalies of the spine including anomalies of craniovertebral junction (CVJ), spina bifida occulta, scoliosis, Sprengel deformity of right shoulder, and multiple rib anomalies, as well as neurological anomalies like Dandy-Walker spectrum and atretic occipital cephalocele.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, association of such extensive skeletal anomalies and Dandy-Walker spectrum with KFS has been uncommonly reported in the literature. This case highlights the importance of knowledge of various common and uncommon associations of KFS to avoid missing significant anomalies.
Improvement of ground-penetrating radar full-waveform inversion images using cone penetration test data
Authors: Zhou Zhen , Klotzsche Anja , Schmäck Jessica , Vereecken Harry , van der Kruk Jan
Published: January 2021

Detailed characterization of aquifers is critical and challenging due to the existence of heterogeneous small-scale high-contrast layers. For an improved characterization of subsurface hydrologic characteristics, crosshole ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and cone penetration test (CPT) measurements are performed. In comparison to the CPT approach, which can only provide 1D high-resolution data along vertical profiles, crosshole GPR enables measuring 2D cross sections between two boreholes. In general, a standard inversion method for GPR data is the ray-based approach, which considers only a small amount of information and can therefore only provide limited resolution. In the past few decades, full-waveform inversion (FWI) of crosshole GPR data in the time domain has matured, and it provides inversion results with higher resolution by exploiting the full-recorded waveform information. However, FWI results are limited due to complex underground structures and the nonlinear nature of the method. A new approach that uses CPT data in the inversion process is applied to enhance the resolution of the final relative permittivity FWI results by updating the effective source wavelet. The updated effective source wavelet possesses a priori CPT information and a larger bandwidth. Using the same starting models, a synthetic model comparison between the conventional and updated FWI results demonstrates that the updated FWI method provides reliable and more consistent structures. To test the method, five experimental GPR cross section results are analyzed with the standard FWI and the new proposed updated approach. The synthetic and experimental results indicate the potential of improving the reconstruction of subsurface aquifer structures by combining conventional 2D FWI results and 1D CPT data.
An exploratory study of perinatal hair cortisol concentrations in mother–infant dyads with severe psychiatric disorders versus healthy controls
Authors: Broeks Carlinde W. , Choenni Vandhana , Kok Rianne , van der Voorn Bibian , de Kruijff Ineke , van den Akker Erica L.T. , van Rossum Elisabeth F.C. , Hoogendijk Witte J.G. , Hillegers Manon H.J. , Kamperman Astrid M. , Lambregtse-Van den Berg Mijke P.
Published: January 2021

Background

Maternal psychopathology during pregnancy is associated with negative outcomes in offspring. Increased placental transfer of maternal cortisol may contribute to mediate this association. Hair cortisol concentrations (HCCs) appear to be a good biomarker of long-term prenatal stress exposure. Little is known about the associations between severe maternal psychopathology and perinatal infant HCCs.

Aims

We assessed HCCs in the perinatal period in mother–infant dyads with and without severe psychiatric disorders.

Method

We examined group differences in HCCs of mother–infant dyads (n = 18) subjected to severe maternal psychiatric disorders versus healthy control dyads (n = 27). We assessed the correlation of HCCs between mother and infant within both groups, and the association between current maternal symptoms and HCCs in patient dyads.

Results

Median (interquartile range) and distribution of HCC differed in patients compared with control mothers (U = 468.5, P = 0.03). HCCs in infants of patients did not differ from control infants (U = 250.0, P = 0.67). Subsequently, we found that HCCs within healthy control dyads were correlated (n = 27, r 0.55 (0.14), P = 0.003), but were not within patient dyads (n = 18, r 0.082 (0.13), P = 0.746). HCCs in infants of patients showed a positive correlation with maternal symptoms (n = 16, r = 0.63 (0.06), P = 0.008).

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that infant HCC reflect perinatal stress exposure. In infants, these early differences could influence lifetime hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis functioning, which might be associated with increased susceptibility to later disease.
Does a Custom Electronic Health Record Alert System Improve Physician Compliance With National Quality Measures for Palliative Bone Metastasis Radiotherapy?
Authors: Grant Stephen R. , Smith Benjamin D. , Pandey Prasamsa , Maldonado J. Alberto , Kim Minsoo , Moon Bryan S. , Colbert Lauren E.
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE

In an effort to promote cost-conscious, high-quality, and patient-centered care in the palliative radiation of painful bone metastases, the National Quality Forum (NQF) formed measure 1822 in 2012, which recommends the use of one of the four dose-fractionation schemes (30 Gy in 10 fractions, 24 Gy in 6 fractions, 20 Gy in 5 fractions, or 8 Gy in a single fraction). We investigated whether a custom electronic health record (EHR) alert system improved quality measure compliance among 88 physicians at a large academic center and institutional network.

METHODS

In March 2018, a multiphase alert system was embedded in a custom web-based EHR. Prior to a course of palliative bone radiation, the alert system notified the user of NQF 1822 recommendations and, once prescription was completed, either affirmed compliance or advised a change in treatment schedule. Rates of compliance were evaluated before and after implementation of alert system.

RESULTS

Of 2,399 treatment courses, 86.5% were compliant with NQF 1822 recommendations. There was no difference in rates of NQF 1822 compliance before or after implementation of the custom EHR alert (86.0% before March 2018 v 86.9% during and after March 2018, P = .551).

CONCLUSION

There was no change in rates of compliance following implementation of a custom EHR alert system designed to make treatment recommendations based on national quality measure guidelines. To be of most benefit, future palliative bone metastasis decision aids should leverage peer review, target a clear practice deficiency, center upon high-quality practice guidelines, and allow flexibility to reflect the diversity of clinical scenarios.
Quantitative multiparametric MRI allows safe surgical planning in patients undergoing liver resection for colorectal liver metastases: report of two patients
Authors: Sethi Pulkit , Thavanesan Navamayooran , Welsh Fenella KS , Connell John , Pickles Elisabeth , Kelly Matt , Fallowfield Jonathan A , Kendall Timothy J , Mole Damian J , Rees Myrddin
Published: January 2021

It is not uncommon for clinicians to encounter varying degrees of hepatic steatosis in patients undergoing resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Magnetic resonance imaging is currently the preferred investigation for identification and pre-operative planning of these patients. An objective assessment of liver quality and degree of steatosis is paramount for planning a safe resection, which is seldom provided by routine MRI sequences.

We studied two patients who underwent an additional pre-operative multiparametric MRI scan (LiverMultiScanTM) as a part of an observational clinical trial (HepaT1ca, NCT03213314) to assess the quality of liver. Outcome was assessed in the form of post-hepatectomy liver failure.

Both patients (Patient 1 and 2) had comparable pre-operative characteristics. Both patients were planned for an extended right hepatectomy with an estimated future liver remnant of approximately 30%. Conventional preoperative contrast MRI showed mild liver steatosis in both patients. Patient one developed post-hepatectomy liver failure leading to prolonged hospital stay compared to patient two who had uneventful post-operative course. Retrospective evaluation of multiparametric MRI scan revealed findings consistent with fibro-inflammatory disease and steatosis (cT1 829 ms, PDFF 14%) for patient 1 whereas patient two had normal parameters (cT1 735 ms, PDFF 2.4%). These findings corresponded with the resection specimen histology.

Multiparametric MRI can objectively evaluate future liver health and volume which may help refine surgical decision-making and improve patient outcomes
Hemangioma of the male breast: Presentation after thorn injury
Authors: Alwani Ali Imran , Schwartz Mary R. , Riddle Barrett C. , Caplan Richard , Ware Lewis L.
Published: January 2021

Hemangiomas of the breast are uncommon and, in males, almost always present as a palpable breast mass. Here, we report the case of a male patient who was diagnosed with a breast hemangioma following an incidental injury to his breast, which triggered symptoms that prompted clinical work-up. As this diagnosis likely would have otherwise not been made, it follows that benign breast masses in males may be underreported and underdiagnosed.
Alternative RNA degradation pathways by the exonuclease Pop2p from Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ye Xuan , Axhemi Armend , Jankowsky Eckhard
Published: January 2021

The 3′ to 5′ exonuclease Pop2p (Caf1p) is part of the CCR4-NOT deadenylation complex that removes poly(A) tails from mRNAs in cells. Pop2p is structurally conserved in eukaryotes, but Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pop2p harbors noncanonical amino acids in its catalytic center. The enzymatic properties of S. cerevisiae Pop2p are not well defined. Here we characterize the RNA exonuclease activity of recombinant S. cerevisiae Pop2p. We find that S. cerevisiae Pop2p degrades RNAs via two alternative reactions pathways, one generating nucleotides with 5′-phosphates and RNA intermediates with 3′-hydroxyls, and the other generating nucleotides with 3′-phosphates and RNA intermediates with 3′-phosphates. The enzyme is not able to initiate the reaction on RNAs with a 3′-phosphate, which leads to accumulation of RNAs with 3′-phosphates that can exceed 10 nt and are resistant to further degradation by S. cerevisiae Pop2p. We further demonstrate that S. cerevisiae Pop2p degrades RNAs in three reaction phases: an initial distributive phase, a second processive phase and a third phase during which processivity gradually declines. We also show that mutations of subsets of amino acids in the catalytic center, including those previously thought to inactivate the enzyme, moderately reduce, but not eliminate activity. Only mutation of all five amino acids in the catalytic center diminishes activity of Pop2p to background levels. Collectively, our results reveal robust exonuclease activity of S. cerevisiae Pop2p with unusual enzymatic properties, characterized by alternative degradation pathways, multiple reaction phases and functional redundancy of amino acids in the catalytic core.
SELEÇÃO DO MELHOR MODELO DE LÂMPADA LED PARA AS INSTALAÇÕES DO SENAI CETIQT POR MEIO DO MÉTODO THOR
Authors: Silva Kaique Dutton Oliveira , Santos Marcos , Gomes Carlos Francisco Simões
Published: January 2021

Atualmente, a sociedade está cada vez mais preocupada com a questão ambiental, fazendo que as organizações públicas e privadas se adaptem a essa nova realidade. Assim, a Alta Administração do SENAI CETIQT manifestou o interesse em substituir as atuais lâmpadas fluorescentes do campus Riachuelo por lâmpadas LED, que, embora tenham um custo unitário maior, promovem uma economia considerável em médio e longo prazo. A primeira dificuldade encontrada foi definir o modelo de lâmpada LED que melhor atenderia às necessidades da instituição. Inicialmente, houve o entendimento ea estruturação do problema por meio de um brainstorm, resultando em quatro critérios julgados indispensáveis para a aquisição, que são custo, facilidade de instalação, vida útil e tempo de garantia. Por meio desses critérios, elencaram-se cinco modelos de lâmpadas LED que poderiam ser adquiridas. Como arcabouço metodológico, utilizou-se o método multicritério THOR, uma vez que os critérios e as alternativas estavam bem definidos. Assim, chegou-se à lâmpada tubular como o modelo mais indicado para o SENAI CETIQT, levando em consideração as especificidades da organização.
ANÁLISE DOS RECURSOS E CAPACIDADES ESTRATÉGICOS COMO VANTAGEM COMPETITIVA PARA UM SUPERMERCADO LOCALIZADO NO SUL DE SANTA CATARINA
Authors: Pasini Mariana , Dias Almerinda Tereza Bianca Bez Batti , Castanha Eduardo Tramontin
Published: January 2021

O presente estudo tem por objetivo analisar os recursos e as capacidades estratégicas que geram vantagens competitivas para um supermercado localizado no Sul de Santa Catarina. Como aporte teórico, utilizou-se da Visão Baseada em Recursos e Capacidades Dinâmicas. No que se refere ao enquadramento do estudo, caracteriza-se como qualitativo perante o problema e descritivo quanto aos objetivos. Com base nas duas gestoras entrevistadas, constatou-se que os recursos físicos (localização) e os recursos humanos (atendimento) são fontes de vantagem competitiva para a organização. Os demais recursos identificados não obtiveram vantagem competitiva e indicam paridade competitiva. Em vista disso, o supermercado investigado conta apenas com a localização e o atendimento como geradores de vantagem competitiva perante seus concorrentes.
MENSURAÇÃO DO NÍVEL DE ESTRESSE OCUPACIONAL PERCEBIDO POR ATENDENTES DE TELEMARKETING DE UM CONTACT CENTER
Authors: Honorato Antonio Edson Oliveira , Oliveira Agostinha Mafalda Barra de
Published: January 2021

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo quantificar o nível de estresse ocupacional percebido pelos atendentes de telemarketing de um contact center, localizado no Rio Grande do Norte. Uma vez que as empresas desse ramo são, historicamente, conhecidas pelas dificuldades em suas relações trabalhistas, torna-se uma necessidade estudar o que os profissionais dessa área sentem em relação aos problemas que ocorrem em sua vida profissional. Trata-se de um estudo de caso que, para a coleta de dados, foi utilizado o questionário, com aplicação da Escala de Estresse Percebido (Perceived Stress Scale – PSS) para medir o nível de estresse no indivíduo. Com base nos resultados da pesquisa, constatou-se que a maioria dos atendentes sofre do estresse ocupacional em nível moderado ou alto, evidenciando que o ambiente de trabalho do contact center pesquisado é formado por agentes estressores que predispõem os funcionários a doenças ocupacionais como o estresse.
POLÍTICA DE INOVAÇÃO DE INSTITUIÇÕES PÚBLICAS DE CIÊNCIA, TECNOLOGIA E INOVAÇÃO: O PASSO A PASSO PARA PROCESSOS DE FORMULAÇÃO
Authors: Vilha Anapatrícia Morales , Ferreira Fabio Danilo , Baltazar Luiz Fernando , Firmino Kelly Cristina , Martins Jaqueline Mangabeira , Ferraz Gustavo Leça
Published: January 2021

Com objetivo de dar efeito prático ao que preconiza a Lei n.º 13.243/2016 e oferecer maior segurança jurídica aos atores científicos, tecnológicos e inovativos, o Decreto n.º 9.283 de 2018 apresenta elementos que orientam a cooperação entre instituições científicas, tecnológicas e de inovação (ICTs) e empresas, e, em especial, o estabelecimento das diretrizes para o desenvolvimento das políticas de inovação. Este trabalho teve por objetivo desenvolver um processo de formulação das políticas institucionais de inovação em ICTs brasileiras. Para tanto, construiu-se framework de referência para formulação de políticas institucionais de inovação e realizou-se um estudo de caso em profundidade sobre a experiência da Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC) na formulação de sua política institucional de inovação, em 2019.
TRANSPARÊNCIA EM PROJETOS PÚBLICOS COMO FERRAMENTA DE CONTROLE DAS OBRAS DE MOBILIDADE URBANA
Authors: Kreutz Rafael Rudolfo , Lock Fernando Nascimento
Published: January 2021

Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar a efetividade da transparência dos projetos de mobilidade urbana da Administração Pública na cidade de Santa Maria. De natureza exploratória e quantitativa, o estudo fundamentou-se na análise da disponibilização de informações ao cidadão pela Administração Pública municipal sobre os projetos de mobilidade urbana da cidade. A escolha pela cidade de Santa Maria deu-se porque ela está entre as cinco maiores cidades do RS e destaca-se como a maior da região central do estado. O método utilizado foi uma pesquisa documental que se apoiou em dados secundários que foram coletados por meio de dois canais: a) pesquisa em sites oficiais do governo; e b) canais de busca sobre informações quanto aos projetos de mobilidade urbana. As evidências empíricas apontam para a inexistência da disponibilidade de informações sobre o processo de gestão dos projetos de mobilidade urbana do município.
Outcome of thrombolysis with streptokinase in patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis
Authors: Abbas Shahid , Hameed Naeem , Khilji Shahbaz Ahmad , Jalal Anjum
Published: January 2021

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of thrombolysis in patients of prosthetic valve thrombosis.

Methods: This retrospective analysis was conducted on data of 84 patients of prosthetic valve thrombosis who presented to emergency room of Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology between July 2017 to December 2019. The diagnosis of prosthetic valve thrombosis was based on clinical suspicion and bed side transthoracic echocardiography done by a consultant cardiologist. Fluoroscopy was done to confirm the diagnosis by observing immobile valve leaflet. The confirmed patients were then treated in emergency with streptokinase after taking an informed consent. Quantitative variables like age were summarized by mean and standard deviation. Qualitative variables like gender, successful thrombolysis, stroke, major bleeding, mortality or re-do surgery were summarized by frequency and percentage.

Results: Mean age was 29 ± 6.36, years and there were more female patients (n=43, 51.25%) as compared to males (n=41, 48.8%). Among the 66 surviving patients thrombolysis was successful without any complications in 56 patients (66.7%). Thrombolysis was successful with minor complications in six patients (7.1%) and it failed to produce desired results in four patients (4.8%). In this study 18 (21.4%) patients died. The common complications included minor bleeding in four patients (4.8%) and major bleeding in 10 patients (12.0 %).

Conclusion: Thrombolysis produces reasonable success rate in cases of prosthetic valve thrombosis who are in functional class I or II. However, it has very high mortality rate in patients presenting with functional class III and IV.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.2.3226

How to cite this:Abbas S, Hameed N, Khilji SA, Jalal A. Outcome of thrombolysis with streptokinase in patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(2):325-330. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.2.3226

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Rapid response and learning for later: establishing high quality information networks and evaluation frameworks for the National Ambulance Service response to COVID-19 – the ENCORE COVID Project Protocol
Authors: Masterson Siobhán , Heffernan Eithne , Keegan Dylan , Clarke Bridget , Deasy Conor , O'Donnell Cathal , Crowley Philip , Breen Roisin , Kelly Maureen E , Murphy Andrew W
Published: January 2021

Background: The National Ambulance Service (NAS) is at the forefront of Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As directed in Ireland’s National Action Plan, NAS significantly expanded prehospital services, including provision of a novel COVID-19 testing service. Additionally, other health services rely on NAS’s capacity to assess, transport and/or treat COVID-19 patients. In a climate of innovation and adaptation, NAS needs to learn from international ambulance services and share experience. Evaluation of the NAS response to COVID-19 is required to facilitate evidence-based planning for subsequent waves or future pandemics, and to identify innovative practice for mainstreaming into routine service provision.

Aims: This project aims to test the utility of novel information networks and develop a tool that is tailored to evaluating pandemic-imposed change in an emergency medical service.

Methods: The first aim will be to introduce and measure the impact of ambulance-specific research and information updates for NAS. Secondly, the usefulness to members of an international network of senior ambulance and research personnel (‘AMBULANCE+COVID19’ network), and the clarity and feasibility of a short-survey instrument, the Emergency Medical Services Five Question Survey (EMS-5QS), will be assessed. Finally, an evaluation framework for assessing pandemic-imposed change will be developed to enable NAS determine innovations: (1) for reactivation in another wave or new pandemic; (2) to be sustained as part of routine service. The framework will be developed in collaboration with NAS and the National Quality Improvement Team. The Research Team includes expertise from academia, ambulance services and the National Public Health Emergency Team.

Conclusions: This project will facilitate the prompt introduction of information sharing processes to an emergency medical service and assess the impact of those processes. By developing a process for evaluating pandemic-imposed change in NAS, this project will add to the toolbox for future pandemic planning in emergency medical services internationally.
COVID-19: cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the dental practice
Authors: Jevon Phil , Jalota Puja
Published: January 2021

Phil Jevon and Puja Jalota offer an overview to the current guidelines relating to the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) of a patient with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection

Aim

To understand the Resuscitation Council UK COVID-19 cardiopulmonary resuscitation guidelines.

Objectives

Discuss Public Health England's COVID-19 risk pathways. Describe the level 2 PPE COVID-19 cardiopulmonary response. Describe the level 3 PPE COVID-19 cardiopulmonary response. GDC development outcome C
Business planning IS for you!
Authors: Hylton Preetee
Published: January 2021

‘Be bold and get out of your comfort zone’ says Preetee Hylton, our new editorial board member
Emotional dentistry
Authors: Jethwa Sam
Published: January 2021

Dr Sam Jethwa shines a light on why cosmetic dentistry is more than just about appearance and reveals the role of the dental nurse in delivering aesthetic dental procedures