bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The frequency of occult solid malignancy in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica-like symptoms
Authors: Ramon André , Guillibert-Karras Caroline , Milas-Julien Laurence , Garrot Jean-François , Maillefert Jean-Francis , Ornetti Paul
Published: January 2021

Aims:

We aim to evaluate the clinical usefulness of systematic screening for occult cancer in patients with polymyalgia rheumatic (PMR)-like symptoms in real-life practice.

Methods:

All patients seen by rheumatologists in Burgundy, France, between March 2016 and December 2018 for new-onset PMR that met the 2012 ACR/EULAR classification criteria were prospectively included. Patients underwent systematic screening including determination of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum C-reactive protein levels, thoracic, abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT-TAP) and, in men, serum prostate-specific antigen. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for cancers was calculated using 2012 national estimates of cancer incidence. Potential predictive factors for the diagnosis of cancer were then evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results:

Among the 118 patients included, nine cases of cancer were confirmed and diagnosed with CT-TAP: kidney carcinoma ( n = 4), lung cancer ( n = 2), pancreatic, colon, and ampullary carcinoma ( n = 1 each). Among these cancers, five were localized (four kidney, and one ampullary carcinoma) and were treated with complete surgical resection. The expected incidence of cancer in the general population was 1.95, leading to an overall SIR of 4.6 (95% CI 2.4–8.9, p < 0.0001). An additional analysis was performed for the kidney carcinoma, and it showed a highly significant increase in SIR: 80.8 (95% CI 30.3–215.4). In 80% of patients, the PMR-like syndrome regressed during cancer treatment. No other predictive factors for cancer were found.

Conclusion:

Systematic screening for cancer including CT-TAP in real-life practice revealed occult solid malignancy, mostly early-stage cancer, in a relevant proportion of patients presenting PMR-like symptoms. The high proportion of kidney cancer (40%) is worth highlighting, especially considering that it is not one of the most frequent cancers after 50 years of age.
Today in Guangzhou, Tomorrow in Hong Kong? A Comparative Study of the Language Situation in Two Cities
Authors: Sautman Barry , Xie Xinyi
Published: January 2021

Many in Hong Kong voice concerns about the fate of Cantonese, including nativists (“localists”) and the general public. Guangzhou is seen as a harbinger of diminishing Cantonese in Hong Kong. News and commentaries paint a gloomy picture of Cantonese in Guangzhou. Yet rarely do we read about surveys on the range of Cantonese use and identity in Guangzhou. Neither do we see analyses on how the social context differences between Hong Kong and Guangzhou may have contributed to the two cities’ unique language situations. Our study delineates the Guangzhou and Hong Kong language situations, comparing mother tongues, ordinary languages, and language attitudes. Cantonese is unrivalled in Hong Kong and remains vital in Guangzhou. We put the two cities’ different use frequency and proficiency of Cantonese and Putonghua (“Mandarin”) in the sociocultural context of motivation and migration. We conclude that some claims of diminishing Cantonese are unsupported. We also address how likely it is that Cantonese will diminish or even be replaced in Hong Kong.
Singlehood and Attunement of Self-Esteem to Friendships
Authors: Fisher Alexandra N. , Stinson Danu Anthony , Wood Joanne V. , Holmes John G. , Cameron Jessica J.
Published: January 2021

Romantic relationships activate a process of psychological attunement whereby self-esteem becomes responsive to the romantic bond, thereby potentially benefitting relationship quality and bolstering self-esteem. Yet some people are romantically single, raising the question: Do single people also exhibit psychological attunement? In a 2-year longitudinal study of young adults ( N = 279), we test whether singles psychologically attune to their friendships. Multilevel modeling revealed that within-person fluctuations in friendship quality predicted within-person fluctuations in self-esteem, and this association was stronger for singles than for partnered people. A cross-sectional mediation analysis also revealed that singles invested more in their friendships than partnered people, and greater friendship investment predicted greater friendship quality and self-esteem later on. Finally, singles maintain their friendship quality over time while partnered people experience declines. Taken together, these results suggest that singles are psychologically attuned to their friendships, and such attunement may benefit their belongingness and self-esteem.
Cardiovascular and systemic determinants of exercise capacity in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Bilak Joanna M. , Gulsin Gaurav S. , McCann Gerry P.
Published: January 2021

The global burden of heart failure (HF) is on the rise owing to an increasing incidence of lifestyle related diseases, predominantly type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Diabetes is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and up to 75% of those with T2D develop HF in their lifetime. T2D leads to pathological alterations within the cardiovascular system, which can progress insidiously and asymptomatically in the absence of conventional risk factors. Reduced exercise tolerance is consistently reported, even in otherwise asymptomatic individuals with T2D, and is the first sign of a failing heart. Because aggressive modification of cardiovascular risk factors does not eliminate the risk of HF in T2D, it is likely that other factors play a role in the pathogenesis of HF. Early identification of individuals at risk of HF is advantageous, as it allows for modification of the reversible risk factors and early initiation of treatment with the aim of improving clinical outcomes. In this review, cardiac and extra-cardiac contributors to reduced exercise tolerance in people with T2D are explored.
Interacting with place and mapping community needs to context: Comparing and triangulating multiple geospatial-qualitative methods using the Focus–Expand–Compare approach
Authors: Aw Su , Koh Gerald CH , Oh Yeon Ju , Wong Mee Lian , Vrijhoef Hubertus JM , Harding Susana C , Geronimo Mary Ann B , Hildon Zoe J-l
Published: January 2021

Geospatial-qualitative methods, which combine both observation and interpretative accounts during data collection through extended exposure and movement in place, have been increasingly used to explore “person–place” interactions and assess communities of place. Despite their increased use, there is a lack of reflexive discussion on how they differ in capturing person–place interactions and ways to combine them. Drawing on our experiences using three related methods—Photovoice, Walking through Spaces, and interactive Participatory Learning and Action exercise-led community focus groups—we compared the methodological advantages that each method brings to the construction of “place” and in exploring person–place interactions among the community of older adults living in a neighborhood of Singapore for a neighborhood assessment. We then illustrated how using a Focus–Expand–Compare approach for methodological triangulation can add value in generating greater depth and breadth of perspectives on a topic of interest explored for intervention development.
“Doing the ‘Real’ Work”: How Superintendents’ Sensemaking Shapes Principal Evaluation Policies and Practices in School Districts
Authors: Donaldson Morgaen L. , Mavrogordato Madeline , Youngs Peter , Dougherty Shaun , Al Ghanem Reem
Published: January 2021

Almost every state in the United States has revamped its principal evaluation policies since 2009, yet we know little about how they are implemented. Based on interviews and document analysis in 21 small- and medium-sized school districts, we found that superintendents’ sensemaking shaped their implementation of policy. Drawing on their beliefs about principals and evaluation and their understanding of their district context, superintendents in lower performing districts reported that they complied with the processes specified in state principal evaluation policies but strayed from state guidelines regarding maintaining a focus on instructional leadership during evaluation. In contrast, superintendents of higher performing districts reported that they implemented evaluation processes loosely but adhered to their state’s policy emphasis on instructional leadership. Our findings raise questions about whether the implementation of principal evaluation policies disadvantages principals in lower performing districts. We thus caution against attaching high-stakes consequences such as incentive pay or sanctions to these policies.
The Adaptability of the Catholic Church’s Amani Mashinani Model in Kenya’s North Rift Conflicts
Authors: Kilonzo Susan Mbula , Onkware Kennedy
Published: January 2021

This article explores the dynamics that inform the structure of the Catholic’s Church Amani Mashinani model for conflict resolution. We explore the adaptation of the model in the processes of dialogue, forgiveness, reconciliation, retribution, and healing. Using two conflict situations, we illustrate the applicability of the model by church leadership and the community in resolving conflicts. The model borrows from Paul Lederach’s proposal of peacebuilding from below. From the findings, we conclude that the Amani Mashinani model can be adapted to resolve conflicts in diverse contexts. It has great potential for engaging those who take part in it.
The performance of titanium composite coatings obtained through thermal spraying and microarc oxidation
Authors: Huang CC , Li HM , Li DH , Lin SY
Published: January 2021

The development of composite coatings essential to improve the wear and corrosion resistances of the materials employed in numerous applications, such as automobile, chemical, medicine, construction, aerospace, and biomedical industries. In this study, we presented a double-layer coating technique, which consisted of a thermal-sprayed titanium (Ti) layer and a micro-arc oxidation (MAO) film on AISI 1020 steel. The effect of the composite coatings (Ti/MAO) on wear and corrosion resistance was investigated. To obtain a coating thickness from 250 µm to 450 µm, the prepared specimens were coated with Ti (99.9% pure) by arc spraying. Then, the Ti/MAO films were deposited on Ti coatings. The current density of MAO was fixed at 35 A/dm2, the voltages were 250, 300, 350, 400, and 450 V, and the duration of the MAO process was 10 min, Measurements of film thickness, microstructure, microhardness, X-ray diffractometry analysis, and scanning electron microscopic observation were performed for determining the characteristics of the composite coatings (Ti/MAO). Potentiodynamic polarization curves were used to compare the corrosion resistance of these composite coatings. A ball-on-disc wear test, using an oscillation friction wear tester, was carried out at room temperature according to the ASTM G99 standard to determine the wear resistance. Among all the specimens, Ti/MAO (400 V) had the greatest hardness, lowest friction coefficient, least weight loss, and longest sliding distance. The sliding distance of Ti/MAO (400 V) was about 1.7 times higher than those of Ti. The open-circuit potential of Ti/MAO (400 V) was about 1.7 times better than those of Ti. The corrosion currents of Ti/MAO (250 V) and Ti/MAO (400 V) were decreased by MAO about 95% and 92%, respectively. Although the corrosion current of Ti/MAO (400 V) was higher than that of Ti/MAO (250 V), Ti/MAO (400 V) had better effects in other tests. According to the results, Ti/MAO (400 V) presented the best performance among all the specimens and provided improved protection to both Ti and substrate.
Reduced expression of annexin A2 is associated with impaired cell surface fibrinolysis and venous thromboembolism
Authors: Fassel Hannah , Chen Huigen , Ruisi Mary , Kumar Neha , DeSancho Maria , Hajjar Katherine A.
Published: January 2021

Reduced plasma fibrinolysis has been identified as a potential risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), but the role of cell surface fibrinolysis in VTE is unknown. The annexin A2/S100A10 complex serves as a coreceptor for plasminogen and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), augmenting plasmin generation by 60-fold on the endothelial cell surface. Several studies in both mice and humans support the concept that A2 regulates fibrin homeostasis and intravascular thrombosis in vivo. Here, we examined A2 protein expression and function in 115 adult subjects with VTE and 87 healthy controls. Using peripheral blood mononuclear cells as a surrogate for endothelial cells, we found a 41% mean decrease in cell surface tPA-dependent fibrinolytic activity in subjects who had a positive personal and family history of VTE but tested negative for known inherited thrombophilias (ITs). A2 protein was reduced on average by 70% and messenger RNA levels by 30%, but neither decrease correlated with anticoagulant therapy. Neither cell A2 protein nor cell surface plasmin generation correlated with plasma-based clot lysis times, suggesting that the plasma and cell surface fibrinolytic systems operate independently of one another. These data suggest that reduced expression of annexin A2 protein is associated with cell surface hypofibrinolysis and may represent a novel risk factor for IT.
Cerebral trauma-induced dyschromatopsia in the left hemifield: case presentation
Authors: Mase Yoko , Matsui Yoshitsugu , Uchiyama Eriko , Matsubara Hisashi , Sugimoto Masahiko , Kubo Akiko , Kondo Mineo
Published: January 2021

Background

Acquired color anomalies caused by cerebral trauma are classified as either achromatopsias or dyschromatopsias (Zeki, Brain 113:1721–1777, 1990). The three main brain regions stimulated by color are V1, the lingual gyrus, which was designated as human V4 (hV4), and the fusiform gyrus, designated as V4α. (Zeki, Brain 113:1721–1777, 1990). An acquired cerebral color anomaly is often accompanied by visual field loss (hemi- and quadrantanopia), facial agnosia, prosopagnosia, visual agnosia, and anosognosia depending on the underlying pathology (Bartels and Zeki, Eur J Neurosci 12:172–193, 2000), (Meadows, Brain 97:615–632, 1974), (Pearman et al., Ann Neurol 5:253–261, 1979). The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of a patient who developed dyschromatopsia following a traumatic injury to her brain.

Case presentation

The patient was a 24-year-old woman who had a contusion to her right anterior temporal lobe. After the injury, she noticed color distortion and that blue objects appeared green in the left half of the visual field. Although conventional color vision tests did not detect any color vision abnormalities, short wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP) showed a decrease in sensitivity consistent with a left hemi-dyschromatopsia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detected abnormalities in the right fusiform gyrus, a part of the anterior temporal lobe. At follow-up 14 months later, subjective symptoms had disappeared, but the SWAP abnormalities persisted and a thinning of the sectorial ganglion cell complex (GCC) was detected.

Conclusion

The results indicate that although the subjective symptoms resolved early, a reduced sensitivity of SWAP remained and the optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed GCC thinning. We conclude that local abnormalities in the anterior section of fusiform gyrus can cause mild cerebral dyschromatopsia without other symptoms. These findings indicate that it is important to listen to the symptoms of the patient and perform appropriate tests including the SWAP and OCT at the early stage to objectively prove the presence of acquired cerebral color anomaly.
Introduction and feeding practices of solid food in preterm infants born in Salzburg!
Authors: Hofstätter Edda , Köttstorfer Verena , Stroicz Patricia , Schütz Sebastian , Auer-Hackenberg Lorenz , Brandner Johannes , Wald Martin
Published: January 2021

Background

It is shown that meeting the increased nutritional demand of preterm infants from birth is not only important for survival but essentially contributes to the infants` overall development and long-term health.

While there are established guidelines for weaning term infants, evidence regarding preterm infants is scarce and less precise.

The aim of this study was to identify the current practices on introducing solids to preterm infants amongst caregivers in Salzburg and determine potential reasons for early weaning.

Methods

Altogether 68 infants born between 24 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks were recruited and detailed structured interviews with the caregivers were conducted at 17 weeks corrected age. Weight, height and head circumference were collected.

Results

52% of the study group received solids before the recommended 17 weeks corrected age. For this group the mean age being 13.77 ± 1.11 weeks corrected age. Premature introduction of solids significantly correlates with exclusively and early formula-feeding. 34% were weaned due to recommendation by their paediatrician. 23% of the preterm infants even received solids before 12 weeks corrected age, putting them at risks for developing obesity, celiac disease and diabetes.

Conclusions

This study shows the necessity for clear guidelines regarding the introduction of complementary feeding in preterm infants as well as the importance of their implementation. Caregivers should receive information on this topic early enough and they should fully understand the difference between chronological and corrected age.
Dietary patterns and their associations with overweight/obesity among preschool children in Dongcheng District of Beijing: a cross-sectional study
Authors: MIN Kaiyuan , WANG Jing , LIAO Wei , Astell-Burt Thomas , FENG Xiaoqi , CAI Shuya , LIU Yang , ZHANG Peiwen , SU Fenghua , YANG Kexin , SUN Liang , ZHANG Juan , WANG Lianjun , LIU Zechen , JIANG Yu
Published: January 2021

Background

Few studies investigated the associations between dietary patterns and overweight/obesity among Chinese preschool children. Thus, the study aims to explore dietary patterns and their associations with overweight/obesity among preschool children in the Dongcheng District of Beijing.

Methods

With a stratified proportionate cluster sampling, the study included 3373 pairs of preschool children and their guardians. Children’s weight and height were measured by school nurses, and their food and beverage consumption frequencies were reported by guardians via a food frequency questionnaire. Children’s age, gender, physical activity time, and sedentary time, as well as their parents’ highest level of educational attainment, occupation, weight, and height were also collected. Dietary patterns were identified through exploratory factor analysis. Among these identified dietary patterns, the one with the largest factor score was defined as the predominant dietary pattern for each child. The associations between predominant dietary patterns and overweight/obesity were tested by two-level random-intercept logistic models with cluster-robust standard errors.

Results

Four dietary patterns, i.e., a “Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and snack” pattern, a “Chinese traditional” pattern, a “Health conscious” pattern, and a “Snack” pattern, were identified. Among the children, 21.02% (95% CI: 19.68 to 22.43%) were predominated by the “SSB and snack” pattern, 27.78% (95% CI: 26.29 to 29.32%) by the “Chinese traditional” pattern, 24.90% (95% CI: 23.47 to 26.39%) by the “Health conscious” pattern, and 26.30% (95% CI: 24.84 to 27.81%) by the “Snack” pattern. After controlling for potential confounders, the “SSB and snack” pattern characterized by fresh fruit/vegetable juice, flavored milk drinks, carbonated drinks, flavored fruit/vegetable drinks, tea drinks, plant-protein drinks, puffed foods, fried foods, and Western fast foods was associated with a higher risk of overweight/obesity (OR: 1.61, 95% CI:1.09 to 2.38), compared with the “Chinese traditional” pattern.

Conclusions

The preference for dietary patterns with high energy density but low nutritional value was prevalent among preschool children in the Dongcheng District of Beijing. Comprehensive measures to simultaneously reduce consumption of SSBs and unhealthy snacks among preschool children should be taken urgently to address the childhood obesity problem in China, particularly in metropolises.
Control of COVID-19 in Australia through quarantine: the role of special health accommodation (SHA) in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Fotheringham Penelope , Anderson Teresa , Shaw Miranda , Jewitt Joseph , Storey Hannah , Hutchings Owen , Cartwright Jason , Gupta Leena
Published: January 2021

Background

The first COVID-19 cases were diagnosed in Australia on 25 January 2020. Initial epidiemiology showed that the majority of cases were in returned travellers from overseas. One aspect of Public Health response was to introduce compulsory 14 day quarantine for all travellers returning to New South Wales (NSW) by air or sea in Special Health Accommodation (SHA). We aim to outline the establishment of a specialised health quarantine accommodation service in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and describe the first month of COVID-19 screening.

Methods

The SHA was established with a comprehensive governance structure, remote clinical management through Royal Prince Alfred Virtual Hospital (rpavirtual) and site management with health care workers, NSW Police and accommodation staff.

Results

From 29 March to 29 April 2020, 373 returning travellers were admitted to the SHA from Sydney Airport. 88 (26.1%) of those swabbed were positive for SARS-CoV 2. The day of diagnosis of COVID-19 varied from Day 1 to Day 13, with 63.6% (n = 56) of these in the first week of quarantine. 50% of the people in the SHA were referred to rpavirtual for ongoing clinical management. Seven people required admission to hospital for ongoing clinical care.

Conclusion

The Public Health response to COVID-19 in Australia included early and increased case detection through testing, tracing of contacts of confirmed cases, social distancing and prohibition of gatherings. In addition to these measures, the introduction of mandated quarantine for travellers to Australia was integral to the successful containment of COVID-19 in NSW and Australia through the prevention of transmission locally and interstate from returning travellers.
Aborted sudden cardiac death due to ventricular fibrillation in a female patient with mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Ayed Sofien , Hoffmann Rainer
Published: January 2021

Background

Mitral valve prolapse is the most frequent valvular defect associated with a wide range of electro-hemodynamic abnormalities, leading to heart failure, arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Mitral valve prolapse, first described from Barlow in the 1960s, is defined as displacement of mitral leaflet tissue into the left atrium past the mitral annular plane during systole. The correlation between mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac death has been investigated and clarified by various studies in recent years. However, identifying patients at risk and applying measures to prevent those from sudden cardiac death is challenging.

Case presentation

We report on a 61-year-old female patient who had undergone an aborted sudden cardiac death. An arrythmogenic mitral valve prolapse was diagnosed. In addition, electrocardiographically and morphologically risk markers for sudden cardiac death were found in this case. We performed an ICD implantation as secondary prophylaxis and intended to reconstruct the mitral valve.

Conclusion

This article examines the association of mitral valve prolapse with sudden cardiac death, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and the strategies leading to identify the risk group.
iTRAQ-based proteomic profiling reveals protein alterations after traumatic brain injury and supports thyroxine as a potential treatment
Authors: Zhang Zhongxiang , Yu Jiangtao , Wang Pengcheng , Lin Lian , Liu Ruining , Zeng Rong , Ma Haoli , Zhao Yan
Published: January 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a primary cause of disability and death across the world. Previously, RNA analysis was widely used to study the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying TBI; however, the relatively low correlation between the transcriptome and proteome revealed that RNA transcription abundance does not reliably predict protein abundance, which led to the emergence of proteomic research. In this study, an iTRAQ proteomics approach was applied to detect protein alterations after TBI on a large scale. A total of 3937 proteins were identified, and 146 proteins were significantly changed after TBI. Moreover, 23 upregulated proteins were verified by parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), and fold changes in 16 proteins were consistent with iTRAQ outcomes. Transthyretin (Ttr) upregulation has been demonstrated at the transcriptional level, and this study further confirmed this at the protein level. After treatment with thyroxine (T4), which is transported by Ttr, the effects of T4 on neuronal histopathology and behavioral performance were determined in vivo (TBI + T4 group). Brain edema was alleviated, and the integrity of the blood brain barrier (BBB) improved. Escape latency in the Morris water maze (MWM) declined significantly compared with the group without T4 treatment. Modified neurological severity scores (mNSS) of the TBI + T4 group decreased from day 1 to day 7 post-TBI compared with the TBI + saline group. These results indicate that T4 treatment has potential to alleviate pathologic and behavioral abnormalities post-TBI. Protein alterations after T4 treatment were also detected by iTRAQ proteomics. Upregulation of proteins like Lgals3, Gfap and Apoe after TBI were reversed by T4 treatment. GO enrichment showed T4 mainly affected intermediate filament organization, cholesterol transportation and axonal regeneration. In summary, iTRAQ proteomics provides information about the impact of TBI on protein alterations and yields insight into underlying mechanisms and pathways involved in TBI and T4 treatment. Finally, Ttr and other proteins identified by iTRAQ may become potential novel treatment targets post-TBI.
Profile of copper-associated DNA methylation and its association with incident acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Long Pinpin , Wang Qiuhong , Zhang Yizhi , Zhu Xiaoyan , Yu Kuai , Jiang Haijing , Liu Xuezhen , Zhou Min , Yuan Yu , Liu Kang , Jiang Jing , Zhang Xiaomin , He Meian , Guo Huan , Chen Weihong , Yuan Jing , Cheng Longxian , Liang Liming , Wu Tangchun
Published: January 2021

Background

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a cardiac emergency with high mortality. Exposure to high copper (Cu) concentration has been linked to ACS. However, whether DNA methylation contributes to the association between Cu and ACS is unclear.

Methods

We measured methylation level at > 485,000 cytosine-phosphoguanine sites (CpGs) of blood leukocytes using Human Methylation 450 Bead Chip and conducted a genome-wide meta-analysis of plasma Cu in a total of 1243 Chinese individuals. For plasma Cu-related CpGs, we evaluated their associations with the expression of nearby genes as well as major cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, we examined their longitudinal associations with incident ACS in the nested case-control study.

Results

We identified four novel Cu-associated CpGs (cg20995564, cg18608055, cg26470501 and cg05825244) within a 5% false discovery rate (FDR). DNA methylation level of cg18608055, cg26470501, and cg05825244 also showed significant correlations with expressions of SBNO2, BCL3, and EBF4 gene, respectively. Higher DNA methylation level at cg05825244 locus was associated with lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and higher C-reactive protein level. Furthermore, we demonstrated that higher cg05825244 methylation level was associated with increased risk of ACS (odds ratio [OR], 1.23; 95% CI 1.02–1.48; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

We identified novel DNA methylation alterations associated with plasma Cu in Chinese populations and linked these loci to risk of ACS, providing new insights into the regulation of gene expression by Cu-related DNA methylation and suggesting a role for DNA methylation in the association between copper and ACS.
The association between hallway boarding in internal wards, readmission and mortality rates: a comparative, retrospective analysis, following a policy change
Authors: Ben Shoham Assaf , Munter Gabriel
Published: January 2021

Background

Emergency department overcrowding is associated with adverse clinical outcomes and poor patients and staff experience. Full capacity protocols enabling hallway boarding in internal wards are instituted to relieve emergency room overcrowding. The effect of hallway boarding on the clinical outcomes of all inpatients in the internal wards has not been studied. Early in 2016, a decision to enable hallway boarding in the internal wing in our medical center came into effect, comprising an abrupt change to the medical center’s policy. The objective of this study is to examine the effect of hallway boarding on patients who were hospitalized in the internal wards.

Methods

General linear regression analysis, based on administrative data about admissions of patients, from January 2013 through September 2019, is used to compare in-hospital mortality, 30-day readmission and 30-day mortality rates, of inpatients hospitalized in two internal departments in our medical center, before and after the policy change.

Results

Eight thousand five hundred eighty-three patients and 11,962 patients were admitted to internal departments A and B, before and after the policy change, respectively. Adjusted in-hospital mortality was lower after the policy change (OR 0.76, [CI, 0.65 to 0.90]), 30-day readmission was mildly higher (OR, 1.18 [CI, 1.00 to 1.40]) and no change in 30-day mortality was observed (OR 1.16 [CI, 0.88 to 1.53]). The results emanate from corresponding changes in department A. No apparent change was observed in the length of hospital stay in department A, while a shorter length of stay was observed in department B.

Conclusion

Enabling inpatient boarding in our medical center, effectively, had increased bed capacity and generated an increase in the volume of patients. It was associated with lower in-hospital mortality and an increased 30-day readmission, without increasing 30-day mortality. Since this is an observational study, conducted in a single center, further research is necessary to confirm and qualify these observations.
In vitro testing of cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives and sutures for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannula securement
Authors: Pearse India , Corley Amanda , Bartnikowski Nicole , Fraser John F.
Published: January 2021

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), an invasive mechanical therapy, provides cardio-respiratory support to critically ill patients when maximal conventional support has failed. ECMO is delivered via large-bore cannulae which must be effectively secured to avoid complications including cannula migration, dislodgement and accidental decannulation. Growing evidence suggests tissue adhesive (TA) may be a practical and safe method to secure vascular access devices, but little evidence exists pertaining to securement of ECMO cannulae. The aim of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of two TA formulations (2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate) for use in peripherally inserted ECMO cannula securement, and compare TA securement to ‘standard’ securement methods.

Methods

This in vitro project assessed: (1) the tensile strength and flexibility of TA formulations compared to ‘standard’ ECMO cannula securement using a porcine skin model, and (2) the chemical resistance of the polyurethane ECMO cannulae to TA. An Instron 5567 Universal Testing System was used for strength testing in both experiments.

Results

Securement with sutures and n-butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate both significantly increased the force required to dislodge the cannula compared to a transparent polyurethane dressing (p = 0.006 and p = 0.003, respectively) and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate (p = 0.023 and p = 0.013, respectively). Suture securement provided increased flexibility compared to TA securement (p < 0.0001), and there was no statistically significant difference in flexibility between 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate (p = 0.774). The resistance strength of cannula polyurethane was not weakened after exposure to either TA formulation after 60 min compared to control.

Conclusions

Tissue adhesive appears to be a promising adjunct method of ECMO cannula insertion site securement. Tissue adhesive securement with n-butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate may provide comparable securement strength to a single polypropylene drain stitch, and, when used as an adjunct securement method, may minimise the risks associated with suture securement. However, further clinical research is still needed in this area.
Introducing activities of the Archives of Infectious Diseases History (AIDH) project: Historical epidemiology
Authors: Iijima Wataru , Inoue Hiroki , Ichikawa Tomoo
Published: January 2021

The AIDH is a project as a historical epidemiology. The AIDH aims to collect, maintain, and manage past epidemiological materials and to offer these materials to persons who are interested in the history and in the fields of tropical medicine and global health. In this paper, we introduce our purpose and activities and show a hypothesis about lymphatic filariasis with Brugia malayi in Japan as a case of historical epidemiology. We hope to build fruitful ties between historians and scholars of tropical medicine and global health workers through an interdisciplinary approach to the history of control of infectious diseases.
mSwap: a large-scale image-compositing method with optimal m-ary tree
Authors: Hou Min , Bi Chongke , Wang Fang , Deng Liang , Zheng Gang , Meng Xiangfei
Published: January 2021

With the increasing of computing ability, large-scale simulations have been generating massive amounts of data in aerodynamics. Sort-last parallel rendering is the most classical image compositing method for large-scale scientific visualization. However, in the stage of image compositing, the sort-last method may suffer from scalability problem on large-scale processors. Existing image compositing algorithms tend to perform well in certain situations. For instance, Direct Send is well on small and medium scale; Radix-k gets well performance only when the k-value is appropriate and so on. In this paper, we propose a novel method named mSwap for scientific visualization in aerodynamics, which uses the best scale of processors to make sure its performance at the best. mSwap groups the processors that we can use with a (m,k) table, which records the best combination of m (the number of processors in subgroup of each group) and k (the number of processors in each group). Then in each group, using a m-ary tree to composite the image for reducing the communication of processors. Finally, the image is composited between different groups to generate the final image. The performance and scalability of our mSwap method is demonstrated through experiments with thousands of processors.
Physics-guided deep learning for seismic inversion with hybrid training and uncertainty analysis
Authors: Sun Jian , Innanen Kristopher A. , Huang Chao
Published: January 2021

The determination of subsurface elastic property models is crucial in quantitative seismic data processing and interpretation. This problem is commonly solved by deterministic physical methods, such as tomography or full-waveform inversion. However, these methods are entirely local and require accurate initial models. Deep learning represents a plausible class of methods for seismic inversion, which may avoid some of the issues of purely descent-based approaches. However, any generic deep learning network capable of relating each elastic property cell value to each sample in a seismic data set would require a very large number of degrees of freedom. Two approaches might be taken to train such a network: first, by invoking a massive and exhaustive training data set and, second, by working to reduce the degrees of freedom by enforcing physical constraints on the model-data relationship. The second approach is referred to as “physics-guiding.” Based on recent progress in wave theory-designed (i.e., physics-based) networks, we have developed a hybrid network design, involving deterministic, physics-based modeling and data-driven deep learning components. From an optimization standpoint, a data-driven model misfit (i.e., standard deep learning) and now a physics-guided data residual (i.e., a wave propagation network) are simultaneously minimized during the training of the network. An experiment is carried out to analyze the trade-off between two types of losses. Synthetic velocity building is used to examine the potential of hybrid training. Comparisons demonstrate that, given the same training data set, the hybrid-trained network outperforms the traditional fully data-driven network. In addition, we perform a comprehensive error analysis to quantitatively compare the fully data-driven and hybrid physics-guided approaches. The network is applied to the SEG salt model data, and the uncertainty is analyzed, to further examine the benefits of hybrid training.
Nonstationary predictive filtering for seismic random noise suppression — A tutorial
Authors: Wang Hang , Chen Wei , Huang Weilin , Zu Shaohuan , Liu Xingye , Yang Liuqing , Chen Yangkang
Published: January 2021

Predictive filtering (PF) in the frequency domain is one of the most widely used denoising algorithms in seismic data processing. PF is based on the assumption of linear or planar events in the time-space domain. In traditional PF methods, a predictive filter is fixed across the spatial dimension, which cannot deal with spatial variations in seismic data well. To handle the curved events, the predictive filter is either applied in local windows or extended into a nonstationary version. The regularized nonstationary autoregression (RNAR) method can be treated as a nonstationary extension of traditional PF, in which the predictive filter coefficients are variable in different spatial locations. This highly underdetermined inverse problem is solved by shaping regularization with a smoothness constraint in space. We further extend the RNAR method to the more general case, in which we can apply more constraints to the filter coefficients according to the features of seismic data. First, apart from the smoothness in space, we also apply a smoothing constraint in frequency, considering the coherency of the coefficients in the frequency dimension. Second, we apply a frequency-dependent smoothing radius in the spatial dimension to better take advantage of the nonstationarity of seismic data in the frequency axis and to better deal with noise. The effectiveness of our method is validated using several synthetic and field data examples.
PKA and AMPK Signaling Pathways Differentially Regulate Luteal Steroidogenesis
Authors: Przygrodzka Emilia , Hou Xiaoying , Zhang Pan , Plewes Michele R , Franco Rodrigo , Davis John S
Published: January 2021

Luteinizing hormone (LH) via protein kinase A (PKA) triggers ovulation and formation of the corpus luteum, which arises from the differentiation of follicular granulosa and theca cells into large and small luteal cells, respectively. The small and large luteal cells produce progesterone, a steroid hormone required for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. We recently reported on the importance of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL, also known as LIPE) and lipid droplets for appropriate secretory function of the corpus luteum. These lipid-rich intracellular organelles store cholesteryl esters, which can be hydrolyzed by HSL to provide cholesterol, the main substrate necessary for progesterone synthesis. In the present study, we analyzed dynamic posttranslational modifications of HSL mediated by PKA and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as well as their effects on steroidogenesis in luteal cells. Our results revealed that AMPK acutely inhibits the stimulatory effects of LH/PKA on progesterone production without reducing levels of STAR, CYP11A1, and HSD3B proteins. Exogenous cholesterol reversed the negative effects of AMPK on LH-stimulated steroidogenesis, suggesting that AMPK regulates cholesterol availability in luteal cells. AMPK evoked inhibitory phosphorylation of HSL (Ser565). In contrast, LH/PKA decreased phosphorylation of AMPK at Thr172, a residue required for its activation. Additionally, LH/PKA increased phosphorylation of HSL at Ser563, which is crucial for enzyme activation, and decreased inhibitory phosphorylation of HSL at Ser565. The findings indicate that LH and AMPK exert opposite posttranslational modifications of HSL, presumptively regulating cholesterol availability for steroidogenesis.
Pendulum-based measurements reveal impact dynamics at the scale of a trap-jaw ant
Authors: Jorge Justin F. , Bergbreiter Sarah , Patek S. N.
Published: January 2021

Small organisms can produce powerful, sub-millisecond impacts by moving tiny structures at high accelerations. We developed and validated a pendulum device to measure the impact energetics of microgram-sized trap-jaw ant mandibles accelerated against targets at 105 m s−2. Trap-jaw ants (Odontomachus brunneus; 19 individuals, 212 strikes) were suspended on one pendulum and struck swappable targets that were either attached to an opposing pendulum or fixed in place. Mean post-impact kinetic energy (energy from a strike converted to pendulum motion) was higher with a stiff target (21.0–21.5 µJ) than with a compliant target (6.4–6.5 µJ). Target mobility had relatively little influence on energy transfer. Mean contact duration of strikes against stiff targets was shorter (3.9–4.5 ms) than against compliant targets (6.2–7.9 ms). Shorter contact duration was correlated with higher post-impact kinetic energy. These findings contextualize and provide an energetic explanation for the diverse, natural uses of trap-jaw ant strikes such as impaling prey, launching away threats and performing mandible-powered jumps. The strong effect of target material on energetic exchange suggests material interactions as an avenue for tuning performance of small, high acceleration impacts. Our device offers a foundation for novel research into the ecomechanics and evolution of tiny biological impacts and their application in synthetic systems.
Enhancement patterns of the normal facial nerve on three-dimensional T1W fast spin echo MRI
Authors: Warne Richard , Carney Olivia Mary , Wang George , Connor Steve
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

With increasing neuroimaging applications of contemporary three-dimensional T1W fast spin echo (3D T1W FSE) sequences, it was aimed to reappraise the normal patterns of skull base facial nerve gadolinium enhancement.

Methods:

Pre- and post-gadolinium 3D T1W fast spin echo imaging studies (n = 64) were retrospectively analysed in patients without suspected facial nerve pathology. Two independent observers scored the signal at each of six skull base facial nerve segments. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare changes in signal between pre- and post-gadolinium sequences at each location, and how this differed between proprietary sequences or between the pairs of facial nerves.

Results:

There was significant enhancement at the fundal canalicular (16%), geniculate ganglion (96%), tympanic (45%) and mastoid (38%) facial nerve segments (p < 0.05). Two different proprietary sequences demonstrated similar patterns of enhancement and there was symmetry between the two sides.

Conclusions:

There is a differing pattern of normal facial nerve enhancement on contemporary 3D T1W FSE sequences compared to previous studies of 2D T1W SE imaging and fundal canalicular enhancement may be physiological.

Advances in knowledge:

This is the first study to evaluate patterns of normal facial nerve enhancement using contemporary 3D T1W FSE MRI sequences.
Infantile mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver with elevated alpha fetoprotein
Authors: Le Liem Thanh , Phan Hai Thanh , Nguyen Trung Sao , Truong Khai Dinh , Nguyen Dang Thanh , Nguyen Toan Bao , Pham Thuy Thi Thu
Published: January 2021

Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver (MHL) is a benign tumour that most commonly occurs in children. In most cases of MHL, the α fetoprotein (AFP) level is within the normal limits, only in a few cases, increased AFP has been described which usually causes misdiagnosis of hepatoblastoma. We report a case of a 3-month-old paediatric patient who was incidentally detected with a very high level of AFP, at 6388.4 ng ml−1. Ultrasound revealed a right liver tumour, segment VI, measuring at 56 × 53 mm. According to images of ultrasound and MRI, the diagnosis was mesenchymal hepatic sarcoma. The paediatric patient had surgery to remove the entire liver segment containing the tumour. Micropathological examination showed that the tumour was a MHL. The serum AFP level fell rapidly to near normal following the surgery. The MHL benign liver tumour with an atypical presentation caused a very high AFP level. This was a rare clinical case, and it was difficult to diagnose.
Η κατασκευή του ετεροσεξισμού στο λόγο των νέων: το δίλημμα «κανονικότητας» και «δικαιωμάτων»
Authors: Σαπουντζής Αντώνης , Χατζηστεργίου Μαργαρίτα
Published: January 2021

The study of prejudice against gay people became an important field of sociopsychological research in the last few years. A substantial body of research attempted to examine the negative, homophobic attitudes against gay people as well as the various variables that seem to be associated with homophobia. Although this research tradition has made an important contribution to the study of the phenomenon at hand, more recent approaches based on the turn to language in social psychology have emphasized the dilemmatic opinions in the society. Thepresent article drawing on the research tradition of discourse analysis and ideological dilemmas, examines the way in which young people from a small town in North Greece construct homosexuality in discourse. Itis argued that often participants on the one hand used various strategies in order to disclaim prejudice against gay people, while on the other hand they mobilized discourses against certain gay rights. These dilemmas are scrutinized in relation to the way they are mobilized and also in relation to the ideologies they seem to draw upon.
Οικογένεια και σχολικός εκφοβισμός: Ανασκόπηση των σύγχρονων ερευνών
Authors: Κάργα Σταυρούλα , Μπίμπου Νάκου Ιωάννα
Published: January 2021

Bullying is a complex social problem with negative, longitudinal psychosocial consequences for the students being involved as bullies, victims, or observers. Family has been widely examined as a contributing factor of school bullying. The present article reviews 45 national and international studies (2000-2010) that were found to examine therelationship between parenting practices, parental views regarding bullying, and bullying itself. The main findings of the review underline the significant relationship of parenting practices and parental views of families with bullying, and stresses out the importance of family raising awareness and training for preventive and intervention measures against bullying.