bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualification Criteria and the Verification of Numerical Waves: Part 2: CFD-Based Numerical Wave Tank
Authors: Bouscasse Benjamin , Califano Andrea , Choi Young Myung , Haihua Xu , Kim Jang Whan , Kim Young Jun , Lee Sang Hun , Lim Ho-Joon , Park Dong Min , Peric Milovan , Shen Zhirong , Yeon Seong Mo
Published: October 2021

There is increasing interest in numerical wave simulations as a tool to design offshore structures, especially for the prediction of stochastic nonlinear wave loads like those related to air-gap and wave impact. Though the simulations cannot replace all experiments, they are now competitive on some topics such as the computations of wind and current coefficients. To proceed further it is necessary to improve the procedure to account for another complex environmental factor, wave motion.

This paper addresses an industrial collaboration to develop modeling practices and qualification criteria of CFD-based numerical wave tank for offshore applications. As a part of the effort to develop reliable numerical wave modeling practices in the framework of the “Reproducible Offshore CFD JIP”, qualification criteria are formulated for the wave solutions generated from either potential-flow based codes in Part 1 of this work. Part 2 presents first a set of solutions for forcing the qualified waves obtained with the potential codes in the CFD domain. Those solutions follow a set of coupling protocols previously proposed in the JIP framework.

Two potential codes and two CFD solvers are combined, so that four possible methods of generating waves and modalities are described. Two different potential models are considered, one using the higher order spectral method for numerical wave tank (HOS-NWT), and another using the finite-element method in the horizontal direction and a modal expansion after a sigma transform in the vertical direction (solver is called TPNWT). Both are equipped with a breaking model to generate extreme sea states. The two CFD solvers tested are Simcenter STAR-CCM+ and OpenFOAM. Simulation setups are proposed for both software.

Simulation results from eight academic or industrial partners are presented for two sets of 2D test cases in deep water, one with regular waves and one with irregular waves, both with one very steep condition (ratio of wave height over wavelength of 10% for regular waves and 1000 year return period for Gulf of Mexico for irregular waves).

The irregular waves are simulated for 10 sets of 3 hours to apply a stochastic approach to verify the quality of the waves generated in the numerical domain. Attention is given to the wave spectrum and the ensemble probability of the crest distribution, both obtained from the wave elevation at the center of the domain.
Optimization of Hydrodynamic Coefficients for VIV Prediction
Authors: Yin Decao , Wu Jie , Lie Halvor , Jin Jingzhe , Passano Elizabeth , Saevik Svein , Riemer-Sorenson Signe , Rustad Anne Marthine , Tognarelli Michael A. , Grytyr Guttorm , Andersen Torgrim , Karunakaran Daniel , Igland Ragnar , Gaskill Collin
Published: October 2021

Vortices generated when flow pass offshore slender structures may cause structural vibrations due to fluid-structure interaction, termed vortex-induced vibrations (VIV). VIV can cause severe accumulated fatigue damage, which need to be considered in the structure design. To capture the non-linearities of different riser systems and time varying flow, time domain models are better alternatives than frequency domain models to predict VIV. The input hydrodynamic parameters of time domain models are semi-empirical. However, versatile databases of hydrodynamic parameters are not well established, due to the large variations of the flow conditions, riser systems, and corresponding sub-structures. An optimization procedure could be implemented as an alternative to conventional experimental methods for establishing adaptive hydrodynamic parameter databases capable of accurately handling changes in the underlying structure of the system or flow regime.

Literatures on application of optimization algorithms for various offshore engineering problems have been reviewed. VIV represents a constrained non-linear programming problem, where the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm – NLPQLP has been applied in this study.

This paper proposes an optimization procedure of input hydrodynamic parameters for the time domain VIV solver - VIVANA-TD [21], for VIV prediction of various riser systems. A workflow integrating optimization and time domain VIV simulation has been established in the software work bench SIMA. By investigating the VIV prediction of typical laboratory model tests with optimized parameters, the feasibility of optimization using sequential quadratic non-linear programming algorithm - NLPQLP has been demonstrated.
Long-term brain-on-chip: Multielectrode array recordings in 3D neural cell cultures
Authors: Demircan Yalcin Yagmur , Bastiaens Alex J. , Frimat Jean-Philippe , Luttge Regina
Published: October 2021

This study presents sensing of network bursts in a three-dimensional (3D) cell culture system consisting of a microbioreactor and a multielectrode array (MEA), i.e., brain-on-chip, to interpret neural network dynamics in a label-free manner. While our initial results reported an increased single spiking activity already over the course of days 7, 14, and 21 in vitro, the advanced long-term analysis of the data set (including a last timepoint at day 79) here demonstrates a proof-of-principle for following bursting patterns upon maturation of the network in the microbioreactor as an add-on device for a commercial MEA recording system. These quantitative electrophysiological findings, including mean bursting rate, mean burst duration, and network burst dynamics, confirm a 2D to 3D transition in coherence with the literature.
Copy-scAT: Deconvoluting single-cell chromatin accessibility of genetic subclones in cancer
Authors: Nikolic Ana , Singhal Divya , Ellestad Katrina , Johnston Michael , Shen Yaoqing , Gillmor Aaron , Morrissy Sorana , Cairncross J. Gregory , Jones Steven , Lupien Mathieu , Chan Jennifer A. , Neri Paola , Bahlis Nizar , Gallo Marco
Published: October 2021

Inferring structural variants in cancer single-cell chromatin accessibility data links genetics to chromatin organization.
An invasive species erodes the performance of coastal wetland protected areas
Authors: Ren Junlin , Chen Jianshe , Xu Changlin , van de Koppel Johan , Thomsen Mads S. , Qiu Shiyun , Cheng Fangyan , Song Wanjuan , Liu Quan-Xing , Xu Chi , Bai Junhong , Zhang Yihui , Cui Baoshan , Bertness Mark D. , Silliman Brian R. , Li Bo , He Qiang
Published: October 2021

Large protected areas, once successful in rescuing iconic wetlands from human activities, are undermined by plant invasions.
Heavy Cosmic-Ray Exposure of Apollo Astronauts
Authors: Benton E. V. , Henke R. P. , Bailey J. V.
Published: October 2021

A comprehensive study of the heavy-particle cosmic-ray exposure received by the individual astronauts during the nine lunar Apollo missions reveals a significant variation in the exposure as a function of shielding and the phase of the solar cycle. The data are useful in planning for future long-range missions and in estimating the expected biological damage.
Dynamic Random-Dot Stereograms Reveal Up-Down Anisotropy and Left-Right Isotropy Between Cortical Hemifields
Authors: Breitmeyer B. , Julesz B. , Kropfl W.
Published: October 2021

With the use of dynamic random-dot stereograms (which are devoid of all monocular depth cues), the temporal duration for detecting a small, briefly presented test square of different depth than the surround varied as a function of its location in the central portion of the visual field. Test squares presented in the upper hemifield were detectable at consistently shorter durations than those in the lower hemifield when the fixation marker was in front of the surround, and vice versa when the marker was behind. No such anisotropy was found for left and right hemifields. Exploratory studies suggested a similar up-down anisotropy and left-right isotropy in spatial resolution. Thus, the upper hemifield representation at the cortex shows a general superiority over the lower one for binocular detectors tuned to uncrossed disparities, and the lower hemifield shows superiority for those tuned to crossed disparities.
Expanding the
Burkholderia pseudomallei
Complex with the Addition of Two Novel Species:
Burkholderia mayonis
sp. nov. and
Burkholderia savannae
sp. nov.
Authors: Hall Carina M. , Baker Anthony L. , Sahl Jason W. , Mayo Mark , Scholz Holger C. , Kaestli Mirjam , Schupp James , Martz Madison , Settles Erik W. , Busch Joseph D. , Sidak-Loftis Lindsay , Thomas Astrid , Kreutzer Lisa , Georgi Enrico , Schweizer Herbert P. , Warner Jeffrey M. , Keim Paul , Currie Bart J. , Wagner David M.
Published: October 2021

Burkholderia
species can be important sources of novel natural products, and new species are of interest to diverse scientific disciplines. Although many
Burkholderia
species are saprophytic,
Burkholderia pseudomallei
is the causative agent of the disease melioidosis.
Regulation of Hepatitis B Virus Virion Release and Envelopment Timing by Nucleocapsid and Envelope Interactions
Authors: Xi Ji , Liu Haitao , Hu Jianming
Published: October 2021

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major human pathogen causing serious liver diseases, including cancer. Interactions between the HBV capsid and the large (L) envelope protein are required for formation of infectious viral particles and also negatively regulate formation of an HBV DNA episome in the host cell nucleus, which serves as the sole transcriptional template capable of supporting all viral gene expression to sustain HBV replication and, therefore, is the molecular basis of HBV persistence.
Role of African Swine Fever Virus Proteins EP153R and EP402R in Reducing Viral Persistence in Blood and Virulence in Pigs Infected with BeninΔDP148R
Authors: Petrovan Vlad , Rathakrishnan Anusyah , Islam Muneeb , Goatley Lynnette C. , Moffat Katy , Sanchez-Cordon Pedro J. , Reis Ana L. , Dixon Linda K.
Published: October 2021

African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes a disease of domestic pigs and wild boar which results in death of almost all infected animals. The disease has a high economic impact, and no vaccine is available.
Genetic Environment Surrounding
bla
OXA-55-like
in Clinical Isolates of Shewanella algae Clade and Enhanced Expression of
bla
OXA-55-like
in a Carbapenem-Resistant Isolate
Authors: Ohama Yuki , Aoki Kotaro , Harada Sohei , Nagasawa Tatsuya , Sawabe Tomoo , Nonaka Lisa , Moriya Kyoji , Ishii Yoshikazu , Tateda Kazuhiro
Published: October 2021

Shewanella
spp., which are known to carry chromosomally located
bla
OXA
genes, have mainly been isolated from marine environments; however, they can also cause infections in humans. In this study, we compared the molecular characteristics of clinical isolates of
Shewanella
spp. with those originating from environmental sources. All 10 clinical isolates were genetically identified as members of the
Shewanella algae
clade (
S. algae
,
S. chilikensis
, and
S. carassii
); however, all but one of the 13 environmental isolates were identified as
Shewanella
species members outside the
S. algae
clade.
Early Prediction of Severe COVID-19 in Patients by a Novel Immune-Related Predictive Model
Authors: Sun Caiyu , Xue Mingshan , Yang Min , Zhu Lihui , Zhao Yunxue , Lv Xiaoting , Lin Yueke , Ma Dapeng , Shen Xuecheng , Cheng Yeping , Xuan Haocheng , Jia Xiaoqing , Li Tao , Han Lihui
Published: October 2021

The immune inflammatory response changes rapidly with the progression of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and is responsible for clearance of the virus and further recovery from the infection. However, the intensified immune and inflammatory response in the development of the disease may lead to more serious and fatal consequences, which indicates that immune indicators have the potential to predict serious cases.
Comparative Performance of a New SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Detection System
Authors: Gori Savellini Gianni , Anichini Gabriele , Terrosi Chiara , Prathyumnan Shibily , Gandolfo Claudia , Marini Stefano , Cusi Maria Grazia
Published: October 2021

In order to overcome the increased demand for diagnostic tools for the timely detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, we tested the bKIT Virus Finder COVID-19 molecular rapid test by Hyris Ltd. The new system was confirmed as a reliable assay for rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection, since sensitivity and specificity parameters were fully satisfied.
Caspofungin Inhibits Mixed Biofilms of Candida albicans and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Displays Effectiveness in Coinfected Galleria mellonella Larvae
Authors: Scheunemann Gaby , Fortes Bruna N. , Lincopan Nilton , Ishida Kelly
Published: October 2021

Infections by microorganisms resistant to antimicrobials is a major challenge that leads to high morbidity and mortality rates and increased time and cost with hospitalization. It was estimated that 27 to 56% of bloodstream infections by
C. albicans
are polymicrobial, with
S. aureus
being one of the microorganisms commonly coisolated worldwide.
Global Patterns and Climatic Controls of Dust-Associated Microbial Communities
Authors: Chen Yongjian , Gebert Matthew J. , Faith Seth A. , Dunn Robert R. , Fierer Noah , Barberán Albert
Published: October 2021

A broad diversity of microorganisms can be found in dust, with some of these microorganisms capable of causing allergenic disease in human via inhalation or affecting plant health by acting as plant pathogens. However, the spatial variation in dust microbiomes and the environmental factors associated with this variation have not been comprehensively assessed at the global scale.
Curing somatisation-induced paraplegia with experimental dice-based affective modulation
Authors: Rogers Miles Alexander William , Au Yeung Joshua
Published: October 2021

Following a minor meniscal injury to his right knee, a previously fit and well 58-year-old man developed profound somatisation leading to paraplegia. The patient developed a deep-seated belief that any exercise or walking would cause irreparable damage to his knee. Over the course of 2 years his, mobility reduced from active mountaineering to walking a short distance, and finally to paraplegia. Medical investigations were normal and organic causes were ruled out. Conventional therapy was exhausted, a number of medications were trialled over 5 years, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antipsychotics without success. Eventually, with a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy, physiotherapy and a novel experimental therapy where the patient rolled dice and acted according to the roll results, the patient was able to literally and metaphorically get back on his feet.
Primary phlebitis of central nervous system revealed by black-blood magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Koh Jinsoo , Taruya Junko , Mori Megumi , Ito Hidefumi
Published: October 2021

Primary phlebitis of the central nervous system (PPCNS) is a rare condition that might be a subset of primary angiitis of the CNS. In this case report, the patient was a 39-year-old man with a 2-week history of anterograde amnesia and abnormal behaviours. Black-blood MRI (BB-MRI) showed contrast enhancement of the left basilar vein and cerebral superficial veins. Angiography showed unremarkable change in arteries. After a thorough differential diagnosis, we diagnosed PPCNS and then administered methylprednisolone pulse and cyclophosphamide pulse. The neuropsychological symptoms and MRI findings gradually improved, and after 2 months, the dose of prednisolone was gradually reduced to 20 mg. No recurrence was observed. This case shows that BB-MRI may be useful for diagnosing PPCNS.
Isolated splenic sarcoidosis: a rare cause of hypercalcaemia in a patient with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Zubair Ullah Hafiz Muhammad , Surya Ashutosh , Morley Nicholas , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: October 2021

A 30-year-old man was admitted to Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) with status epilepticus secondary to severe hypoglycaemia on a background of type 1 diabetes. CT of the brain showed generalised cerebral oedema. He was successfully stepped down to a medical ward after 2 weeks. He was noted to have persistently high calcium, which required multiple doses of pamidronate. Parathyroid hormone level was appropriately low. CT of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis showed mild hepatosplenomegaly with small pathological lymph nodes throughout the abdomen. Bone marrow biopsy was unremarkable. Lymph node biopsy was difficult to achieve, and therefore a positron emission tomography scan was arranged. This showed an enlarged and hypermetabolic spleen. Differential diagnoses at this point included lymphoma and sarcoidosis. He underwent diagnostic splenectomy, and the diagnosis of sarcoidosis was confirmed histologically. Calcium level remained normal 17 months after splenectomy.
Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and the impact on progression of diabetic kidney disease in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Bjerre-Christensen Theis , Winther Signe A , Tofte Nete , Theilade Simone , Ahluwalia Tarunveer S , Lajer Maria , Hansen Tine W , Rossing Peter , Hansen Christian Stevns
Published: October 2021

Introduction

We investigated the association between cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and decline in kidney function in type 1 diabetes.

Research design and methods

We included 329 persons with type 1 diabetes. CAN was assessed by cardiovascular reflex tests (CARTs): heart rate response to deep breathing (E/I ratio), to standing (30/15 ratio) and to the Valsalva maneuvre. Two or more pathological CARTs defined CAN diagnosis. Outcomes were yearly change in albuminuria or yearly change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). An endpoint of eGFR decline >30%, development of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or death was examined.

Associations were assessed by linear and Cox regression.

Results

Participants were aged 55.2 (9.4) years, 52% were male, with a diabetes duration of 40.1 (8.9) years, HbA1cof 7.9% (62.5 mmol/mol), eGFR 77.9 (27.7) mL/min/1.73 m2, urinary albumin excretion rate of 14.5 (7–58) mg/24 hours, and 31% were diagnosed with CAN.

CAN was associated with a 7.8% higher albuminuria increase per year (95% CI: 0.50% to 15.63%, p=0.036) versus no CAN. The endpoint of ESKD, all-cause mortality and ≥30% decline in eGFR was associated with CAN (HR=2.497, p=0.0254).

Conclusion

CAN and sympathetic dysfunction were associated with increase in albuminuria in individuals with type 1 diabetes suggesting its role as a potential marker of diabetic kidney disease progression.
Supporting disengaged children and young people living with diabetes to self-care: a qualitative study in a socially disadvantaged and ethnically diverse urban area
Authors: Sharpe Darren , Rajabi Mohsen , Harden Angela , Moodambail Abdul Rehman , Hakeem Vaseem
Published: October 2021

Objective

To explore how to enhance services to support the self-care of children and young people (CYP) clinically considered ‘disengaged’ by diabetes services.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Two diabetes clinics in an ethnically diverse and socially disadvantaged urban area in the UK. Eligible participants were CYP living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes aged between 10 and 25 years who did not attend their last annual hospital appointment.

Participants

22 CYP (14 female and 8 male) aged between 10 and 19 years old took part. The sample was diverse in terms of ethnicity, age at diagnosis, family composition and presence of diabetes among other family members.

Data collection

Semistructured interviews.

Data analysis

Data were analysed thematically.

Results

Analysis of participant accounts confirmed the crucial importance of non-medicalised care in CYP diabetes care. A life plan was considered as important to participants as a health plan. Participants valued the holistic support provided by friends, family members and school teachers. However, they found structural barriers in their health and educational pathways as well as disparities in the quality of support at critical moments along the life course. They actively tried to maximise their well-being by balancing life priorities against diabetes priorities. Combined, these features could undermine participants engagement with health services where personal strategies were often held back or edited out of clinical appointments in fear of condemnation.

Conclusion

We demonstrate why diabetes health teams need to appreciate the conflicting pressures experienced by CYP and to coproduce more nuanced health plans for addressing their concerns regarding identity and risk taking behaviours in the context of their life-worlds. Exploring these issues and identifying ways to better support CYP to address them more proactively should reduce disengagement and set realistic health outcomes that make best use of medical resources.
Diet quality, food insecurity and risk of cardiovascular diseases among adults living with HIV/AIDS: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Oyetunji Iyanuoluwa Oyedeji , Duncan Alastair , Booley Sharmilah , Harbron Janetta
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the single greatest contributor to global mortality. The successful introduction and scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivered a reduction in HIV mortality. Consequently, an association was found between the scale-up of ART and an increased prevalence of comorbidities among people living with HIV (PLWH) such as hypertension and dyslipidaemia. A higher quality diet can delay the onset of comorbidities related to HIV infection. Diet quality and its methods of assessment are not fully established among PLWH. This review will identify the diet quality and food insecurity indices that have been used among PLWH and how these constructs are associated with risk of developing CVD.

Methods and analysis

The frameworks recommended by Arksey and O’Malley and the Joanna Briggs Institute’s manual for conducting scoping reviews will be adopted. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines will be used for reporting. A search strategy was developed using keywords related to the topic. A preliminary MEDLINE (via PubMed) search was conducted on 11 November 2020 to develop a comprehensive search strategy. The final search will be conducted on PubMed, EbscoHost, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. Titles and abstracts of retrieved records will be screened independently by two reviewers. Data will be extracted from records that meet the inclusion criteria using a predesigned charting tool. Discrepancies in decisions made by reviewers will be resolved by consensus or the decision of a third reviewer. Extracted data will be presented in tables or charts. A descriptive summary of the charts or tables will follow.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for a scoping review. Findings will inform other studies currently underway and will be presented at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Registration number

https://osf.io/7k3ja.
Exposure to famine in early life and self-rated health status among Chinese adults: a cross-sectional study from the Chinese Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS)
Authors: Li Wei , Sun Ning , Kondracki Anthony J , Kiplagat Sandra , Osibogun Olatokunbo , Kalan Mohammad Ebrahimi , Jebai Rime , Sun Wenjie , Wei Zhen
Published: October 2021

Objective

China’s Great Famine between 1959 and 1961 has contributed to numerous adverse health outcomes in Chinese. This study aimed to examine the association between exposure to famine in early life and self-rated health (SRH) in adulthood.

Methods

4418 Chinese adults from the 2011 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to estimate adjusted ORs (aORs) and 95% CIs of the association between exposure to famine in early life and SRH, stratified by sex.

Results

Participants exposed to famine during infancy were more likely to report poor SRH (aOR 1.33; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.70) compared with the non-exposed group, adjusting for confounders. Males were 32% less likely than females to report poor SRH (aOR 0.68; 95% CI 0.54 to 0.86). Participants diagnosed with chronic diseases (aOR 3.11; 95% CI 2.68 to 3.61), disability (aOR 1.82; 95% CI 1.38 to 2.38) and vision impairment (aOR 2.07; 95% CI 1.72 to 2.49) were more likely to report poor SRH. Participants who were current alcohol users and with abnormal weight were less likely to report poor SRH. Stratification by sex showed no significant association between famine and SRH among males, but a consistently significant association was observed among females (aOR 1.46; 95% CI 1.02 to 2.12).

Conclusions

Findings from this study indicated that females exposed to famine in China during infancy were more likely to report poor SRH in their adulthood. Implementing interventions to those who were exposed to famine in early life, especially for females, may improve their long-term consequences.
The Oslo Ischaemia Study: cohort profile
Authors: Falk Ragnhild Sørum , Mariampillai Julian Eek , Prestgaard Erik Edvard , Heir Trond , Bodegård Johan , Robsahm Trude Eid , Grundvold Irene , Skretteberg Per Torger , Engeseth Kristian , Bjornholt Jorgen Vildershoj , Stavem Knut , Liestøl Knut , Sandvik Leiv , Thaulow Erik , Erikssen Gunnar , Kjeldsen Sverre E , Gjesdal Knut , Erikssen Jan E
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The Oslo Ischaemia Study was designed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of silent coronary disease in Norwegian middle-aged men, specifically validating exercise electrocardiography (ECG) findings compared with angiography. The study has been important in investigating long-term predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, as well as investigating a broad spectrum of epidemiological and public health perspectives.

Participants

In 1972–1975, 2014 healthy men, 40–59 years old, were enrolled in the study. Comprehensive clinical examination included an ECG-monitored exercise test at baseline and follow-ups. The cohort has been re-examined four times during 20 years. Linkage to health records and national health registries has ensured complete endpoint registration of morbidity until the end of 2006, and cancer and mortality until the end of 2017.

Findings to date

The early study results provided new evidence, as many participants with a positive exercise ECG, but no chest pain (‘silent ischaemia’), did not have significant coronary artery stenosis after all. Still, they were over-represented with coronary disease after years of follow-up. Furthermore, participants with the highest physical fitness had lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and the magnitude of blood pressure responses to moderate exercise was shown to influence the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. With time, follow-up data allowed the scope of research to expand into other fields of medicine, with the aim of investigating predictors and the importance of lifestyle and risk factors.

Future plans

Recently, the Oslo Ischaemia Study has been found worthy, as the first scientific study, to be preserved by The National Archives of Norway. All the study material will be digitised, free to use and accessible for all. In 2030, the Oslo Ischaemia Study will be linked to the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry to obtain complete follow-up to death. Thus, a broad spectrum of additional opportunities opens.
Epidemiology of undiagnosed depression in people with diabetes mellitus: a comparative analysis of Ireland, England and the USA
Authors: McGrath Niamh , O Neill Kate , McHugh Sheena M , Toomey Elaine , Kearney Patricia M
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Improving detection of depression in people with diabetes is recommended. However, little is known about how different health systems compare in depression detection. We estimated and compared the (1) prevalence of depression detection in people with and without diabetes, and (2) association between diabetes and undiagnosed depression across three health systems.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis of three nationally representative studies: The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, the English Longitudinal Study on Ageing and the Health and Retirement Study.

Setting

Community-dwelling adults in Ireland, England and the USA.

Participants

Adults aged ≥50 years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was depression diagnosis. The secondary outcome was any depression. Any depression was defined by the presence of self-reported doctor-diagnosed depression or current depression symptoms on the Centre for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale. Depression diagnosis was categorised as: undiagnosed, symptomatic and diagnosed, and asymptomatic and diagnosed. We estimated age-standardised prevalence of depression diagnosis by country and diabetes status. Anyone who self-reported having ever received a doctor diagnosis of diabetes was classified as having diabetes. Among respondents with depression, we estimated the association between diabetes and undiagnosed depression by country using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of depression (diagnosed and undiagnosed) was higher in people with diabetes in each country with absolute rates varying by country; undiagnosed prevalence (Ireland: diabetes 10.1% (95% CI 7.5% to 12.8%) vs no diabetes 7.5% (95% CI 6.8% to 8.2%), England: diabetes 19.3% (95% CI 16.5% to 22.2%) vs no diabetes 11.8% (95% CI 11.0% to 12.6%), USA: diabetes 7.4% (95% CI 6.4% to 8.4%) vs no diabetes 6.1% (95% CI 5.7% to 6.6%)). In the fully adjusted model, there was no clear pattern of association between diabetes status and undiagnosed depression; Ireland: OR=0.82 (95% CI 0.5 to 1.3), England: OR=1.47 (95% CI 1.0 to 2.1), USA: OR=0.80 (95% CI 0.7 to 1.0).

Conclusions

Although undiagnosed depression was more prevalent among people with diabetes, the relationship between diabetes and undiagnosed depression differed by country. Targeted efforts are needed to improve depression detection among community-dwelling older adults, particularly those with diabetes.
Clinical effectiveness and components of Home-pulmonary rehabilitation for people with chronic respiratory diseases: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Uzzaman Md Nazim , Chan Soo Chin , Shunmugam Ranita Hisham , Engkasan Julia Patrick , Agarwal Dhiraj , Habib G M Monsur , Hanafi Nik Sherina , Jackson Tracy , Jebaraj Paul , Khoo Ee Ming , Liew Su May , Mirza Fatim Tahirah , Pinnock Hilary , Rabinovich Roberto A
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are common and disabling conditions that can result in social isolation and economic hardship for patients and their families. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves functional exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) but practical barriers to attending centre-based sessions or the need for infection control limits accessibility. Home-PR offers a potential solution that may improve access. We aim to systematically review the clinical effectiveness, completion rates and components of Home-PR for people with CRDs compared with Centre-PR or Usual care.

Methods and analysis

We will search PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, PeDRO and PsycInfo from January 1990 to date using a PICOS search strategy (Population: adults with CRDs; Intervention: Home-PR; Comparator: Centre-PR/Usual care; Outcomes: functional exercise capacity and HRQoL; Setting: any setting). The strategy is to search for ‘Chronic Respiratory Disease’ AND ‘Pulmonary Rehabilitation’ AND ‘Home-PR’, and identify relevant randomised controlled trials and controlled clinical trials. Six reviewers working in pairs will independently screen articles for eligibility and extract data from those fulfilling the inclusion criteria. We will use the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to rate the quality of evidence. We will perform meta-analysis or narrative synthesis as appropriate to answer our three research questions: (1) what is the effectiveness of Home-PR compared with Centre-PR or Usual care? (2) what components are used in effective Home-PR studies? and (3) what is the completion rate of Home-PR compared with Centre-PR?

Ethics and dissemination

Research ethics approval is not required since the study will review only published data. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentation in conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020220137.
Disciplinary complaints concerning transgressive behaviour by healthcare professionals: an analysis of 5 years jurisprudence in the Netherlands
Authors: Gerritse Frank L , Duvivier Robbert J
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To study the frequency of observed cases of disciplinary law complaints concerning transgressive behaviour in Dutch healthcare by analysing disciplinary cases handled in Dutch disciplinary law.

Design

Retrospective review of complaints in the Dutch disciplinary law tribunals from the period 1 January 2015 to 1 January 2020.

Setting

Dutch healthcare.

Method

Descriptive retrospective study. All judgements at regional disciplinary tribunals in the first instance from the period 1 January 2015 to 1 January 2020 concerning transgressive behaviour were investigated. The following was studied: year of judgement, number and nature of complaints, type of complainants, profession of defendant.

Results

Over the study period, 139 complaints about transgressive behaviour were handled, 90 of which involved sexual behaviour. 66/139 complaints were submitted by patients themselves (47.5%). Most complaints were directed against physicians (44.6%; n=62), followed by nurses (30.2%; n=42), psychologists (11.5%; n=16) and physiotherapists (7.9%; n=11). 80.6% of the complaints were directed against a male healthcare professional (OR 4.25; 95% CI 1.7590 to 10.2685; p=0.0013). 104/139 of the complaints originated from an outpatient work setting and about half of the complaints originated from mental healthcare. Of the 90 disciplinary cases in which the complaint was related to sexually transgressive behaviour, 83.3% (n=75) were ruled to be substantiated (5 of which partially) with a measure imposed in all cases: 6 formal warnings (8%), 11 reprimands (14.7%), 10 denials (partial suspension) (13.3%), 26 temporary suspensions (34.7%) and 22 cancellations of the licence to practice (29.3%).

Conclusion

This study describes jurisprudence of disciplinary cases about transgressive behaviour of healthcare professionals in the Netherlands. The results of this study can be used to monitor trends in observed cases of transgressive behaviour.
Virtual phone clinics in orthopaedics: evaluation of clinical application and sustainability
Authors: Pradhan Raj , Peeters Wouter , Boutong Sara , Mitchell Chris , Patel Rahul , Faroug Rad , Roussot Mark
Published: October 2021

Aims

Adoption of virtual clinics has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and they will continue to form an integral part of healthcare delivery. Our objective was to evaluate virtual clinics in orthopaedic practice and determine how to use them effectively and sustainably.

Methods

We surveyed 100 consecutive patients participating in orthopaedic virtual phone clinic (VPC) at an academic hospital to evaluate patient satisfaction against face-to-face (F2F) consultations and obtain suggestions for improving patient experience, and we surveyed 23 clinicians who conducted orthopaedic VPCs in 2020. Data were correlated with clinic outcomes, reason for consultation, diagnosis, patient age and clinician grade. Consultation duration, clinician-associated costs and reimbursement were analysed. Significance was tested using two-tailed Student’s t-test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Patient satisfaction (out of 5) for VPC was significantly lower than F2F (4.1 vs 4.5, p=0.0003), and a larger proportion of VPC scored <3 compared with F2F (11% vs 2%). Higher VPC scores were associated with appointments for delivering results and where patients felt clinical examination was not needed. Patients suggested introducing video capability, adhering to appointment time and offering the choice of VPC or F2F. Mean clinician satisfaction scores for VPC were 4.3/5 and suggested indications for VPC included: routine surveillance, communication of results, discussing/consenting for surgery and vulnerable patients. Integrating video, providing private rooms and offering patients time intervals for VPC were recommended. Current National Health Service VPC structures uses greater clinician resources and generates lower reimbursement than F2F consultations, resulting in 11.5% reduction in reimbursement.

Conclusion

VPC plays a valuable role when clinical evaluation has been performed or considered not necessary. Offering the choice of VPC or F2F, adding video capability and providing a time interval for VPC may reduce resource use and increase satisfaction. We recommend renegotiating VPC tariffs and cost-neutral modifications of clinic structure.
Impact of COVID-19 restrictions on diabetes health checks and prescribing for people with type 2 diabetes: a UK-wide cohort study involving 618 161 people in primary care
Authors: Carr Matthew J , Wright Alison K , Leelarathna Lalantha , Thabit Hood , Milne Nicola , Kanumilli Naresh , Ashcroft Darren M , Rutter Martin K
Published: October 2021

Objective

To compare rates of performing National Institute for Health and Care Excellence-recommended health checks and prescribing in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), before and after the first COVID-19 peak in March 2020, and to assess whether trends varied by age, sex, ethnicity and deprivation.

Methods

We studied 618 161 people with T2D followed between March and December 2020 from 1744 UK general practices registered with the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. We focused on six health checks: haemoglobin A1c, serum creatinine, cholesterol, urinary albumin excretion, blood pressure and body mass index assessment. Regression models compared observed rates in April 2020 and between March and December 2020 with trend-adjusted expected rates derived from 10-year historical data.

Results

In April 2020, in English practices, rates of performing health checks were reduced by 76%–88% when compared with 10-year historical trends, with older people from deprived areas experiencing the greatest reductions. Between May and December 2020, the reduced rates recovered gradually but overall remained 28%–47% lower, with similar findings in other UK nations. Extrapolated to the UK population, there were ~7.4 million fewer care processes undertaken March–December 2020. In England, rates for new medication fell during April with reductions varying from 10% (95% CI: 4% to 16%) for antiplatelet agents to 60% (95% CI: 58% to 62%) for antidiabetic medications. Overall, between March and December 2020, the rate of prescribing new diabetes medications fell by 19% (95% CI: 15% to 22%) and new antihypertensive medication prescribing fell by 22% (95% CI: 18% to 26%), but prescribing of new lipid-lowering or antiplatelet therapy was unchanged. Similar trends were observed across the UK, except for a reduction in new lipid-lowering therapy prescribing in the other UK nations (reduction: 16% (95% CI: 10% to 21%)). Extrapolated to the UK population, between March and December 2020, there were ~31 800 fewer people with T2D prescribed a new type of diabetes medication and ~14 600 fewer prescribed a new type of antihypertensive medication.

Conclusions

Over the coming months, healthcare services will need to manage this backlog of testing and prescribing. We recommend effective communications to ensure patient engagement with diabetes services, monitoring and opportunities for prescribing, and when appropriate use of home monitoring, remote consultations and other innovations in care.
Anticoagulant prescribing for atrial fibrillation and risk of incident dementia
Authors: Cadogan Sharon Louise , Powell Emma , Wing Kevin , Wong Angel Yun , Smeeth Liam , Warren-Gash Charlotte
Published: October 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between oral anticoagulant type (direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) vs vitamin K antagonists (VKAs)) and incident dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Using linked electronic health record (EHR) data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink in the UK, we conducted a historical cohort study among first-time oral anticoagulant users with incident non-valvular AF diagnosed from 2012 to 2018. We compared the incidence of (1) clinically coded dementia and (2) MCI between patients prescribed VKAs and DOACs using Cox proportional hazards regression models, with age as the underlying timescale, accounting for calendar time and time on treatment, sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, clinical comorbidities and medications.

Results

Of 39 200 first-time oral anticoagulant users (44.6% female, median age 76 years, IQR 68–83), 20 687 (53%) were prescribed a VKA and 18 513 (47%) a DOAC at baseline. Overall, 1258 patients (3.2%) had GP-recorded incident dementia, incidence rate 16.5 per 1000 person-years. DOAC treatment for AF was associated with a 16% reduction in dementia diagnosis compared with VKA treatment in the whole cohort (adjusted HR 0.84, 95% CI: 0.73 to 0.98) and with a 26% reduction in incident MCI (adjusted HR 0.74, 95% CI: 0.65 to 0.84). Findings were similar across various sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Incident EHR-recorded dementia and MCI were less common among patients prescribed DOACs for new AF compared with those prescribed VKAs.
MRI and CT coronary angiography in survivors of COVID-19
Authors: Singh Trisha , Kite Thomas A , Joshi Shruti S , Spath Nick B , Kershaw Lucy , Baker Andrew , Jordan Helen , Gulsin Gaurav Singh , Williams Michelle Claire , van Beek Edwin J R , Arnold Jayanth Ranjit , Semple Scott I K , Moss Alastair James , Newby David E , Dweck Marc , McCann Gerry P
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To determine the contribution of comorbidities on the reported widespread myocardial abnormalities in patients with recent COVID-19.

Methods

In a prospective two-centre observational study, patients hospitalised with confirmed COVID-19 underwent gadolinium and manganese-enhanced MRI and CT coronary angiography (CTCA). They were compared with healthy and comorbidity-matched volunteers after blinded analysis.

Results

In 52 patients (median age: 54 (IQR 51–57) years, 39 males) who recovered from COVID-19, one-third (n=15, 29%) were admitted to intensive care and a fifth (n=11, 21%) were ventilated. Twenty-three patients underwent CTCA, with one-third having underlying coronary artery disease (n=8, 35%). Compared with younger healthy volunteers (n=10), patients demonstrated reduced left (ejection fraction (EF): 57.4±11.1 (95% CI 54.0 to 60.1) versus 66.3±5 (95 CI 62.4 to 69.8)%; p=0.02) and right (EF: 51.7±9.1 (95% CI 53.9 to 60.1) vs 60.5±4.9 (95% CI 57.1 to 63.2)%; p≤0.0001) ventricular systolic function with elevated native T1 values (1225±46 (95% CI 1205 to 1240) vs 1197±30 (95% CI 1178 to 1216) ms;p=0.04) and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) (31±4 (95% CI 29.6 to 32.1) vs 24±3 (95% CI 22.4 to 26.4)%; p<0.0003) but reduced myocardial manganese uptake (6.9±0.9 (95% CI 6.5 to 7.3) vs 7.9±1.2 (95% CI 7.4 to 8.5) mL/100 g/min; p=0.01). Compared with comorbidity-matched volunteers (n=26), patients had preserved left ventricular function but reduced right ventricular systolic function (EF: 51.7±9.1 (95% CI 53.9 to 60.1) vs 59.3±4.9 (95% CI 51.0 to 66.5)%; p=0.0005) with comparable native T1 values (1225±46 (95% CI 1205 to 1240) vs 1227±51 (95% CI 1208 to 1246) ms; p=0.99), ECV (31±4 (95% CI 29.6 to 32.1) vs 29±5 (95% CI 27.0 to 31.2)%; p=0.35), presence of late gadolinium enhancement and manganese uptake. These findings remained irrespective of COVID-19 disease severity, presence of myocardial injury or ongoing symptoms.

Conclusions

Patients demonstrate right but not left ventricular dysfunction. Previous reports of left ventricular myocardial abnormalities following COVID-19 may reflect pre-existing comorbidities.

Trial registration number

NCT04625075.
Immunological configuration of ovarian carcinoma: features and impact on disease outcome
Authors: Fucikova Jitka , Coosemans An , Orsulic Sandra , Cibula David , Vergote Ignace , Galluzzi Lorenzo , Spisek Radek
Published: October 2021

Epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) is a relatively rare malignancy but is the fifth-leading cause of cancer-related death in women, largely reflecting early, prediagnosis dissemination of malignant disease to the peritoneum. At odds with other neoplasms, EOC is virtually insensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitors, correlating with a tumor microenvironment that exhibits poor infiltration by immune cells and active immunosuppression. Here, we comparatively summarize the humoral and cellular features of primary and metastatic EOC, comparatively analyze their impact on disease outcome, and propose measures to alter them in support of treatment sensitivity and superior patient survival.
Safety of endovascular therapy for symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis: a national prospective registry
Authors: Wang Yabing , Wang Tao , Dmytriw Adam Andrew , Yang Kun , Jiao Liqun , Shi Huaizhang , Lu Jie , Li Tianxiao , Huang Yujie , Zhao Zhenwei , Wu Wei , Wan Jieqing , Sun Qinjian , Hong Bo , Li Yongli , Zhang Liyong , Chu Jianfeng , Cheng Qiong , Cai Yiling , Wang Pengfei , Luo Qi , Yang Hua , Dong Baijing , Zhang Yang , Zhao Jun , Chen Zuoquan , Li Wei , Bai Xiaoxin , He Weiwen , Cai Xueli , Ti Maimai , Zaidat Osama O
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The safety outcomes of endovascular therapy for intracranial artery stenosis in a real-world stetting are largely unknown. The Clinical Registration Trial of Intracranial Stenting for Patients with Symptomatic Intracranial Artery Stenosis (CRTICAS) was a prospective, multicentre, real-world registry designed to assess these outcomes and the impact of centre experience.

Methods

1140 severe, symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis (ICAS) patients treated with endovascular therapy were included from 26 centres, further divided into three groups according to the annual centre volume of intracranial angioplasty and stent placement procedures over 2 years: (1) high volume for ≥25 cases/year; (2) moderate volume for 10–25 cases/year and (3) low volume for <10 cases/year.

Results

The rate of 30-day stroke, transient ischaemic attack or death was 9.7% (111), with 5.4%, 21.1% and 9.7% in high-volume, moderate-volume and low-volume centres, respectively (p<0.05). Multivariable logistic regression confirmed high-volume centres had a significantly lower primary endpoint compared with moderate-volume centres (OR=0.187, 95% CI: 0.056 to 0.627; p≤0.0001), while moderate-volume and low-volume centres showed no significant difference (p=0.8456).

Conclusion

Compared with the preceding randomised controlled trials, this real-world, prospective, multicentre registry shows a lower complication rate of endovascular treatment for symptomatic ICAS. Non-uniform utilisation in endovascular technology, institutional experience and patient selection in different volumes of centres may have an impact on overall safety of this treatment.
The bosonic and fermionic propagators under an external electromagnetic field in a Euclidean manifold
Authors: Corrêa E.B.S. , Bahia C.A. , Lourenço J.A.
Published: October 2021

In this work, we calculated the bosonic as well as fermionic propagators under classical homogeneous and constant magnetic and electric fields in a Euclidean space. For this, we will reassess Ritus’ method for calculating the Feynman propagator.