bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age of Red Cells for Transfusion and Outcomes in Patients with ARDS
Authors: Graw Jan A. , Bünger Victoria , Materne Lorenz A. , Krannich Alexander , Balzer Felix , Francis Roland C. E. , Pruß Axel , Spies Claudia D. , Kuebler Wolfgang M. , Weber-Carstens Steffen , Menk Mario , Hunsicker Oliver
Published: January 2022

Packed red blood cells (PRBCs), stored for prolonged intervals, might contribute to adverse clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. In this study, short-term outcome after transfusion of PRBCs of two storage duration periods was analyzed in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Patients who received transfusions of PRBCs were identified from a cohort of 1044 ARDS patients. Patients were grouped according to the mean storage age of all transfused units. Patients transfused with PRBCs of a mean storage age ≤ 28 days were compared to patients transfused with PRBCs of a mean storage age > 28 days. The primary endpoint was 28-day mortality. Secondary endpoints included failure-free days composites. Two hundred and eighty-three patients were eligible for analysis. Patients in the short-term storage group had similar baseline characteristics and received a similar amount of PRBC units compared with patients in the long-term storage group (five units (IQR, 3–10) vs. four units (2–8), p = 0.14). The mean storage age in the short-term storage group was 20 (±5.4) days compared with 32 (±3.1) days in the long-term storage group (mean difference 12 days (95%-CI, 11–13)). There was no difference in 28-day mortality between the short-term storage group compared with the long-term storage group (hazard ratio, 1.36 (95%-CI, 0.84–2.21), p = 0.21). While there were no differences in ventilator-free, sedation-free, and vasopressor-free days composites, patients in the long-term storage group compared with patients in the short-term storage group had a 75% lower chance for successful weaning from renal replacement therapy (RRT) within 28 days after ARDS onset (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.24 (95%-CI, 0.1–0.55), p < 0.001). Further analysis indicated that even a single PRBC unit stored for more than 28 days decreased the chance for successful weaning from RRT. Prolonged storage of PRBCs was not associated with a higher mortality in adults with ARDS. However, transfusion of long-term stored PRBCs was associated with prolonged dependence of RRT in critically ill patients with an ARDS.
8-Isoprostanes and Asymmetric Dimethylarginine as Predictors of Mortality in Patients Following Coronary Bypass Surgery: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Gołąb Aleksandra , Plicner Dariusz , Rzucidło-Hymczak Anna , Tomkiewicz-Pająk Lidia , Gawęda Bogusław , Kapelak Bogusław , Undas Anetta
Published: January 2022

Background: We previously demonstrated that enhanced oxidative stress and reduced nitric oxide bioavailability are associated with unfavorable outcomes early after coronary artery bypass grafting. It is not known whether these processes may impact long-term results. We sought to assess whether during long-term follow-up, markers of oxidative stress and nitric oxide bioavailability may predict cardiovascular mortality following bypass surgery. Methods: We studied 152 consecutive patients (118 men, age 65.2 ± 8.3 years) who underwent elective, primary, isolated on-pump bypass surgery. We measured plasma 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α and asymmetric dimethylarginine before surgery and twice after surgery (18–36 h and 5–7 days). We assessed all-cause and cardiovascular death in relation to these two biomarkers during a mean follow-up time of 11.7 years. Results: The overall mortality was 44.7% (4.7 per 100 patient-years) and cardiovascular mortality was 21.0% (2.2 per 100 patient-years). Baseline 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α was associated with cardiovascular mortality (HR 1 pg/mL 1.010, 95% CI 1.001–1.021, p = 0.036) with the optimal cut-off ≤ 364 pg/mL for higher survival rate (HR 0.460, 95% CI 0.224–0.942, p = 0.030). Asymmetric dimethylarginine > 1.01 μmol/L measured 18–36 h after surgery also predicted cardiovascular death (HR 2.467, 95% CI 1.140–5.340, p = 0.020). Additionally, elevated 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α measured at the same time point associated with all-cause mortality (HR 1 pg/mL 1.007, 95% CI 1.000–1.014, p = 0.048). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that in advanced coronary disease, increased oxidative stress, reflected by 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α before bypass surgery and enhanced asymmetric dimethylarginine accumulation just after the surgery are associated with cardiovascular death during long-term follow-up
Histology of Cardiac Sarcoidosis with Novel Considerations Arranged upon a Pathologic Basis
Authors: Kato Shu , Sakai Yasuhiro , Okabe Asako , Kawashima Yoshiaki , Kuwahara Kazuhiko , Shiogama Kazuya , Abe Masato , Ito Hiroyasu , Morimoto Shin’ichiro
Published: January 2022

Sarcoidosis is a rare disease of isolated or diffuse granulomatous inflammation. Although any organs can be affected by sarcoidosis, cardiac sarcoidosis is a fatal disorder, and it is crucial to accurately diagnose it to prevent sudden death due to dysrhythmia. Although endomyocardial biopsy is invasive and has limited sensitivity for identifying granulomas, it is the only modality that yields a definitive diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis. It is imperative to develop novel pathological approaches for the precise diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis. Here, we aimed to discuss commonly used diagnostic criteria for cardiac sarcoidosis and to summarize useful and novel histopathologic criteria of cardiac sarcoidosis. While classical histologic observations including noncaseating granulomas and multinucleated giant cells (typically Langhans type) are the most important findings, others such as microgranulomas, CD68+ CD163− pro-inflammatory (M1) macrophage accumulation, CD4/CD8 T-cell ratio, Cutibacterium acnes components, lymphangiogenesis, confluent fibrosis, and fatty infiltration may help to improve the sensitivity of endomyocardial biopsy for detecting cardiac sarcoidosis. These novel histologic findings are based on the pathology of cardiac sarcoidosis. We also discussed the principal histologic differential diagnoses of cardiac sarcoidosis, such as tuberculosis myocarditis, fungal myocarditis, giant cell myocarditis, and dilated cardiomyopathy.
“Compoundless Anaesthesia”, Controlled Administration, and Post-Operative Recovery Acceleration: Musings on Theoretical Nanomedicine Applications
Authors: Jaynes Tyler Lance
Published: January 2022

Much research has been conducted on how patients may be served through new advances in perioperative anaesthetic care. However, adaptations of standardised care methodologies can only provide so many novel solutions for patients and caregivers alike. Similarly, unique methods such as nanoscopic liposomal package delivery for analgesics and affective numbing agents pose a similar issue—specifically that we are still left with the dilemma of patients for whom analgesics and numbing agents are ineffective or harmful. An examination of the potential gains that may result from the targeted development of nanorobotics for anaesthesia in perioperative care will be presented in this essay to help resolve this pending conflict for the research community. This examination should therefore serve as a “call to action” for such research and a “primer” for those for whom the method’s implementation would most directly impact.
360° Ab-Interno Schlemm’s Canal Viscodilation with OMNI Viscosurgical Systems for Open-Angle Glaucoma—Midterm Results
Authors: Toneatto Giacomo , Zeppieri Marco , Papa Veronica , Rizzi Laura , Salati Carlo , Gabai Andrea , Brusini Paolo
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of ab-interno microcatheterization and 360° viscodilation of Schlemm’s canal (SC) performed with OMNI viscosurgical system in open angle glaucoma (OAG) together or not with phacoemulsification. Setting: Two surgical sites. Design: Retrospective, observational. Methods: Eighty eyes from 73 patients with mild to moderate OAG underwent ab- interno SC viscodilation performed with OMNI system. Fifty eyes (Group 1) underwent only SC viscodilation, while 30 eyes (Group 2) underwent glaucoma surgery + cataract extraction. Primary success endpoint at 12 months was an intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction higher than 25% from baseline with an absolute value of 18 mmHg or lower, either on the same number or fewer ocular hypotensive medications, without further interventions. Secondary effectiveness endpoints included mean IOP, number of medications and comparison of outcomes between groups. Safety endpoints consisted of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), adverse events (AEs), and subsequent surgical procedures. Results: Primary success was achieved in 40.0% and 67.9% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean IOP at 12-month follow-up showed a significant reduction in both groups (from 23.0 to 15.6 mmHg, p < 0.001, and from 21.5 to 14.1, p < 0.001, in Groups 1 and 2, respectively). Mean medication number decreased in both groups (from 3.0 to 2.0, p < 0.001 and from 3.4 to 1.9, p < 0.001, in Groups 1 and 2, respectively). AEs included hyphema (2 eyes), mild hypotony (4 eyes), IOP spikes one month after surgery (1 eye). Twelve eyes (15.0%) required subsequent surgical procedures. No BCVA reduction was observed. Conclusions: Viscodilation of SC using OMNI viscosurgical systems is safe and relatively effective in reducing IOP in adult patients with OAG.
Novel Method of Measuring Corneal Viscoelasticity Using the Corvis ST Tonometer
Authors: Boszczyk Agnieszka , Kasprzak Henryk , Przeździecka-Dołyk Joanna
Published: January 2022

Background: The process of rapid propagation of the corneal deformation in air puff tonometer depends not only on intraocular pressure, but also on the biomechanical properties of the cornea and anterior eye. One of the biomechanical properties of the cornea is viscoelasticity, which is the most visible in its high-speed deformations. It seems reasonable to link the corneal viscoelasticity parameter to two moments of the highest speed of corneal deformations, when the cornea buckles. The aim of this work is to present a method of determining the time and place of occurrence of corneal buckling, examine spatial and temporal dependencies between two corneal applanations and bucklings in the Corvis ST tonometer, and correlate these dependencies with corneal viscoelastic properties. Methods: Images of the horizontal cross section of the Corvis ST deformed cornea from the air puff tonometer Corvis ST were used. 14 volunteers participated in the study, each of them had one eye measured eight times. Mutual changes in the profile slopes of the deformed corneas were numerically determined. They describe pure corneal deformation, eliminating the influence of rotation, and displacement of the entire eyeball. For each point in the central area of the corneal profile, the maximum velocities of mutual slope changes accompanying the applanations were estimated. The times of their occurrence were adopted as buckling times. Results: The propagation of buckling along the corneal profile is presented, as well as the repeatability and mutual correlations between the buckling parameters and intraocular pressure. Based on the relationship between them, a new parameter describing corneal hysteresis: Corvis Viscoelasticity (CVE) is introduced. It is characterized by high repeatability: ICC = 0.82 (0.69–0.93 CI) and low and insignificant correlation with intraocular pressure: r = 0.25 (p-value = 0.38). Conclusion: The results show for the first time how to measure the corneal buckling and viscoelastic effects with Corvis ST. CVE is a new proposed biomechanical parameter related to the viscoelastic properties of the cornea, which has high repeatability for the examined subject. The distribution of its values is planned to be tested on different groups of patients in order to investigate its clinical applicability.
Plasma microRNA-320a as a Potential Biomarker of Physiological Changes during Training in Professional Volleyball Players
Authors: Podgórski Rafał , Cieśla Marek , Podgórska Dominika , Bajorek Wojciech , Płonka Artur , Czarny Wojciech , Trybulski Robert , Król Paweł
Published: January 2022

A deeper insight into the mechanisms responsible for athlete performance that may serve as specific and detailed training indicators is still desired, because conventionally used biomarkers provide limited information about the adaptive processes that occur during exercise. The objective of our study was to assess insulin-like growth factor 1 receptors (IGF1R) gene expression and evaluate plasma concentration of selected microRNAs (miRNAs) during a 10-week training period (sampling times: week 1, 4, 7, and 10) in a group of 12 professional female volleyball players. Circulating miRNAs (miR-223, miR-320a, and miR-486) with established concentration in plasma and documented association with the IGF1 signaling pathway, which is involved in muscle development and recovery, were tested. The levels of analyzed miRNAs, tested by one-way ANOVA, were significantly different between four training periods during a 10-week training cycle (miR-223 p < 0.0001, miR-320a p = 0.00021, miR-486 p = 0.0037, respectively). The levels of IGF1R also appeared to be different (p = 0.00092), and their expression showed a trend to increase between the first and third periods. In the fourth period, the expression decreased, although it was higher compared with the baseline. Correlations between concentration levels of miR-223 and miR-320a (rs = 0.54, p < 0.001), as well as between miR-320a and miR-486 (rs = 0.73, p < 0.001) were also found. In the fourth period, a negative correlation between miR-223 plasma level and leucocyte IGF1R expression was found (rs = −0.63, p = 0.028). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that miR-320a (p = 0.024) and creatine kinase (p = 0.028) had the greatest impact on the expression levels of the IGF1R gene. Future studies are required to define whether these miRNAs, especially miR-320a, as well as IGF1R expression could be useful biomarkers of physiological changes during exercise and to discover their detailed biological roles in mode-specific exercise training adaptations of professional athletes.
Effectiveness of Therapeutic Exercise and Patient Education on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomised, Single-Blind, Controlled Trial with a 6-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Prieto-Gómez Virginia , Yuste-Sánchez María José , Bailón-Cerezo Javier , Romay-Barrero Helena , de la Rosa-Díaz Irene , Lirio-Romero Cristina , Torres-Lacomba María
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise plus patient therapeutic education on perceived fatigue, functional capacity and pain in breast cancer survivors with cancer-related fatigue. A randomised, single-blind, clinical trial was conducted with a total of 80 breast cancer survivors who presented cancer-related fatigue. Women were randomised into a supervised therapeutic exercise group (STE-G) (n = 40) or an unsupervised exercise group (UE-G) (n = 40). Both interventions included patient therapeutic education and were delivered in three sessions per week over eight weeks. The main outcome was perceived fatigue as assessed by the Spanish version of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue subscale (FACIT-F). Other evaluated outcomes were pain measured on a visual analogue scale, and distance measured using the 6-Minute Walk Test. Data were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at three and six months after baseline. Significantly greater improvements across all variables were observed in the STE-G throughout the entire follow-up period with the exception of pain. Conclusions: A supervised therapeutic exercise program plus patient therapeutic education significantly reduce perceived fatigue and increase functional capacity in breast cancer survivors suffering from cancer-related fatigue compared to an unsupervised physical exercise program based on individual preferences with patient therapeutic education.
Early Reconstitution of Antibody Secreting Cells after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Hinterleitner Martina , Hinterleitner Clemens , Malenke Elke , Federmann Birgit , Holzer Ursula , Müller Martin , Bethge Wolfgang A. , Wirths Stefan
Published: January 2022

Immune cell reconstitution after stem cell transplantation is allocated over several stages. Whereas cells mediating innate immunity recover rapidly, adaptive immune cells, including T and B cells, recover slowly over several months. In this study we investigated kinetics and reconstitution of de novo B cell formation in patients receiving CD3 and CD19 depleted haploidentical stem cell transplantation with additional in vivo T cell depletion with monoclonal anti-CD3 antibody. This model enables a detailed in vivo evaluation of hierarchy and attribution of defined lymphocyte populations without skewing by mTOR- or NFAT-inhibitors. As expected CD3+ T cells and their subsets had delayed reconstitution (<100 cells/μL at day +90). Well defined CD19+ B lymphocytes of naïve and memory phenotype were detected at day +60. Remarkably, we observed a very early reconstitution of antibody-secreting cells (ASC) at day +14. These ASC carried the HLA-haplotype of the donor and secreted the isotypes IgM and IgA more prevalent than IgG. They correlated with a population of CD19− CD27− CD38low/+ CD138− cells. Of note, reconstitution of this ASC occurred without detectable circulating T cells and before increase of BAFF or other B cell stimulating factors. In summary, we describe a rapid reconstitution of peripheral blood ASC after CD3 and CD19 depleted haploidentical stem cell transplantation, far preceding detection of naïve and memory type B cells. Incidence before T cell reconstitution and spontaneous secretion of immunoglobulins allocate these early ASC to innate immunity, eventually maintaining natural antibody levels.
CPAP Intervention as an Add-On Treatment to Lipid-Lowering Medication in Coronary Artery Disease Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the RICCADSA Trial
Authors: Celik Yeliz , Balcan Baran , Peker Yüksel
Published: January 2022

Dyslipidaemia is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), and reducing lipid levels is essential for secondary prevention in management of these high-risk individuals. Dyslipidaemia is common also in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the first line treatment of OSA. However, evidence of a possible lipid-lowering effect of CPAP in CAD patients with OSA is scarce. We addressed the effect of CPAP as an add-on treatment to lipid-lowering medication in a CAD cohort with concomitant OSA. This study was a secondary analysis of the RICCADSA trial (Trial Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; No: NCT 00519597), that was conducted in Sweden between 2005 and 2013. In total, 244 revascularized CAD patients with nonsleepy OSA (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 15/h, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score < 10) were randomly assigned to CPAP or no-CPAP. Circulating triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (all in mg/dL) were measured at baseline and 12 months after randomization. The desired TG levels were defined as circulating TG < 150 mg/dL, and LDL levels were targeted as <70 mg/dL according to the recent guidelines of the European Cardiology Society and the European Atherosclerosis Society. A total of 196 patients with available blood samples at baseline and 12-month follow-up were included (94 randomized to CPAP, 102 to no-CPAP). We found no significant between-group differences in circulating levels of TG, TC, HDL and LDL at baseline and after 12 months as well as in the amount of change from baseline. However, there was a significant decline regarding the proportion of patients with the desired TG levels from 87.2% to 77.2% in the CPAP group (p = 0.022), whereas there was an increase from 84.3% to 88.2% in the no-CPAP group (n.s.). The desired LDL levels remained low after 12 months in both groups (15.1% vs. 17.2% in CPAP group, and 20.8% vs. 18.8% in no-CPAP group; n.s.). In a multiple linear regression model, the increase in the TG levels was predicted by the increase in body-mass-index (β = 4.1; 95% confidence interval (1.0–7.1); p = 0.009) adjusted for age, sex and CPAP usage (hours/night). CPAP had no lipid-lowering effect in this revascularized cohort with OSA. An increase in body-mass-index predicted the increase in TG levels after 12 months, suggesting that lifestyle modifications should be given priority in adults with CAD and OSA, regardless of CPAP treatment.
Association between CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, ATRIA, and Essen Stroke Risk Scores and Unsuccessful Recanalization after Endovascular Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Kim Hyung Jun , Park Moo-Seok , Yoo Joonsang , Kim Young Dae , Park Hyungjong , Kim Byung Moon , Bang Oh Young , Kim Hyeon Chang , Han Euna , Kim Dong Joon , Heo JoonNyung , Choi Jin Kyo , Lee Kyung-Yul , Lee Hye Sun , Shin Dong Hoon , Choi Hye-Yeon , Sohn Sung-Il , Hong Jeong-Ho , Lee Jong Yun , Baek Jang-Hyun , Kim Gyu Sik , Seo Woo-Keun , Chung Jong-Won , Kim Seo Hyun , Han Sang Won , Park Joong Hyun , Kim Jinkwon , Jung Yo Han , Cho Han-Jin , Ahn Seong Hwan , Lee Sung Ik , Seo Kwon-Duk , Chang Yoonkyung , Song Tae-Jin , Nam Hyo Suk ,   on behalf of the SECRET Study Investigators
Published: January 2022

Background: The CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, ATRIA, and Essen scores have been developed for predicting vascular outcomes in stroke patients. We investigated the association between these stroke risk scores and unsuccessful recanalization after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Methods: From the nationwide multicenter registry (Selection Criteria in Endovascular Thrombectomy and Thrombolytic therapy (SECRET)) (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02964052), we consecutively included 501 patients who underwent EVT. We identified pre-admission stroke risk scores in each included patient. Results: Among 501 patients who underwent EVT, 410 (81.8%) patients achieved successful recanalization (mTICI ≥ 2b). Adjusting for body mass index and p < 0.1 in univariable analysis revealed the association between all stroke risk scores and unsuccessful recanalization (CHADS2 score: odds ratio (OR) 1.551, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.198–2.009, p = 0.001; CHA2DS2VASc score: OR 1.269, 95% CI 1.080–1.492, p = 0.004; ATRIA score: OR 1.089, 95% CI 1.011–1.174, p = 0.024; and Essen score: OR 1.469, 95% CI 1.167–1.849, p = 0.001). The CHADS2 score had the highest AUC value and differed significantly only from the Essen score (AUC of CHADS2 score; 0.618, 95% CI 0.554–0.681). Conclusion: All stroke risk scores were associated with unsuccessful recanalization after EVT. Our study suggests that these stroke risk scores could be used to predict recanalization in stroke patients undergoing EVT.
Health Risks of Sarcopenic Obesity in Overweight Children and Adolescents: Data from the CHILT III Programme (Cologne)
Authors: Sack Carolin , Ferrari Nina , Friesen David , Haas Fabiola , Klaudius Marlen , Schmidt Lisa , Torbahn Gabriel , Wulff Hagen , Joisten Christine
Published: January 2022

Sarcopenic obesity is increasingly found in youth, but its health consequences remain unclear. Therefore, we studied the prevalence of sarcopenia and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors as well as muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness using data from the German Children’s Health InterventionaL Trial (CHILT III) programme. In addition to anthropometric data and blood pressure, muscle and fat mass were determined with bioelectrical impedance analysis. Sarcopenia was classified via muscle-to-fat ratio. A fasting blood sample was taken, muscular fitness was determined using the standing long jump, and cardiorespiratory fitness was determined using bicycle ergometry. Of the 119 obese participants included in the analysis (47.1% female, mean age 12.2 years), 83 (69.7%) had sarcopenia. Affected individuals had higher gamma-glutamyl transferase, higher glutamate pyruvate transaminase, higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, higher diastolic blood pressure, and lower muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness (each p < 0.05) compared to participants who were ‘only’ obese. No differences were found in other parameters. In our study, sarcopenic obesity was associated with various disorders in children and adolescents. However, the clinical value must be tested with larger samples and reference populations to develop a unique definition and appropriate methods in terms of identification but also related preventive or therapeutic approaches.
Sex Hormone Receptor Expression in Craniopharyngiomas and Association with Tumor Aggressiveness Characteristics
Authors: Martínez-Ortega Antonio , Flores-Martinez Álvaro , Venegas-Moreno Eva , Dios Elena , Del Can Diego , Rivas Eloy , Kaen Ariel , Cárdenas Ruiz-Valdepeñas Eugenio , Fajardo Elena , Roldán Florinda , González-Rivera Natividad , Oliva Rosario , Fernández-Peña José Ignacio , Soto-Moreno Alfonso , Cano David A.
Published: January 2022

Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) are rare tumors of the sellar and suprasellar regions of embryonic origin. The primary treatment for CPs is surgery but it is often unsuccessful. Although CPs are considered benign tumors, they display a relatively high recurrence rate that might compromise quality of life. Previous studies have reported that CPs express sex hormone receptors, including estrogen and progesterone receptors. Here, we systematically analyzed estrogen receptor α (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression by immunohistochemistry in a well-characterized series of patients with CP (n = 41) and analyzed their potential association with tumor aggressiveness features. A substantial proportion of CPs displayed a marked expression of PR. However, most CPs expressed low levels of ERα. No major association between PR and ERα expression and clinical aggressiveness features was observed in CPs. Additionally, in our series, β-catenin accumulation was not related to tumor recurrence.
Ordering Knowledge in the Markers of Psychiatric/Mental Disorders
Authors: Waszkiewicz Napoleon
Published: January 2022

The Special Issue “Advances in Markers of Psychiatric Disorders” [...]
Metabolic Control of the FreeStyle Libre System in the Pediatric Population with Type 1 Diabetes Dependent on Sensor Adherence
Authors: Leiva-Gea Isabel , Martos-Lirio Maria F. , Gómez-Perea Ana , Ariza-Jiménez Ana-Belen , Tapia-Ceballos Leopoldo , Jiménez-Hinojosa Jose Manuel , Lopez-Siguero Juan Pedro
Published: January 2022

Aims: To evaluate the relationship between daily sensor scan rates and changes in HbA1c and hypoglycemia in children. Methods: We enrolled 145 paediatric T1D patients into a prospective, interventional study of the impact of the FreeStyle Libre 1 system on measures of glycemic control. Results: HbA1c was higher at lower scan rates, and decreased as the scan rate increased to 15–20 scans, after which it rose at higher scan rates. An analysis of the change in hypoglycemia, based on the number of daily sensor scans, showed there was a significant correlation between daily scan rates and hypoglycemia. Subjects with higher daily scan rates reduced all levels of hypoglycaemia. Conclusions: HbA1c is higher at lower scan rates, and decreases as scan rate increases. Reductions in hypoglycemia were evident in subjects with higher daily scan rates.
Optimal Mean Arterial Pressure for Favorable Neurological Outcomes in Survivors after Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Lee Yun Im , Ko Ryoung-Eun , Yang Jeong Hoon , Cho Yang Hyun , Ahn Joonghyun , Ryu Jeong-Am
Published: January 2022

We evaluated the optimal mean arterial pressure (MAP) for favorable neurological outcomes in patients who underwent extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). Adult patients who underwent ECPR were included. The average MAP was obtained during 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h after cardiac arrest, respectively. Primary outcome was neurological status upon discharge, as assessed by the Cerebral Performance Categories (CPC) scale (range from 1 to 5). Overall, patients with favorable neurological outcomes (CPC 1 or 2) tended to have a higher average MAP than those with poor neurological outcomes. Six models were established based on ensemble algorithms for machine learning, multiple logistic regression and observation times. Patients with average MAP around 75 mmHg had the least probability of poor neurologic outcomes in all the models. However, those with average MAPs below 60 mmHg had a high probability of poor neurological outcomes. In addition, based on an increase in the average MAP, the risk of poor neurological outcomes tended to increase in patients with an average MAP above 75 mmHg. In this study, average MAPs were associated with neurological outcomes in patients who underwent ECPR. Especially, maintaining the survivor’s MAP at about 75 mmHg may be important for neurological recovery after ECPR.
Planned Place of Birth—Impact of Psychopathological Risk Factors on the Choice of Birthplace and Its Postpartum Effect on Psychological Adaption: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Winter Clara , Junge-Hoffmeister Juliane , Bittner Antje , Gerstner Irene , Weidner Kerstin
Published: January 2022

The choice of birthplace may have an important impact on a woman’s health. In this longitudinal study, we investigated the psychopathological risk factors that drive women’s choice of birthplace, since their influence is currently not well understood. The research was conducted in 2011/12 and we analyzed data of 177 women (obstetric unit, n = 121; free standing midwifery unit, n = 42; homebirth, n = 14). We focused antepartally (M  = 34.3 ± 3.3) on sociodemographic and risk factors of psychopathology, such as prenatal distress (Prenatal Distress Questionnaire), depressiveness (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), birth anxiety (Birth Anxiety Scale), childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire), and postpartally (M = 6.65 ± 2.6) on birth experience (Salmon’s Item List), as well as psychological adaption, such as postpartum depressive symptoms (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) and birth anxiety felt during birth (modified Birth Anxiety Scale). Women with fear of childbirth and the beginning of birth were likely to plan a hospital birth. In contrast, women with fear of touching and palpation by doctors and midwives, as well as women with childhood trauma, were more likely to plan an out-of-hospital birth. Furthermore, women with planned out-of-hospital births experienced a greater relief of their birth anxiety during the birth process than women with planned hospital birth. Our results especially show that women with previous mental illnesses, as well as traumatic experiences, seem to have special needs during childbirth, such as a safe environment and supportive care.
Segmentectomy and Wedge Resection for Elderly Patients with Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Peiyu , Wang Shaodong , Liu Zheng , Sui Xizhao , Wang Xun , Li Xiao , Qiu Mantang , Yang Fan
Published: January 2022

Background: Considerable controversies exist regarding the efficacies of segmentectomy and wedge resection for elderly patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to solve these issues. Methods: We searched the online databases PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library to identify eligible studies. Elderly patients were defined as ≥65 years. Early-stage NSCLC was defined as stage I based on TNM systems. The primary endpoints were survival outcomes (overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and disease-free survival (DFS)) and recurrence patterns. The second endpoints were perioperative morbidities. The hazard rate (HR) and odds ratio (OR) were effect sizes. Results: Sixteen cohort studies (3140 participants) and four database studies were finally included. Segmentectomy and lobectomy showed no significant difference in OS (cohort studies HR 1.00, p = 0.98; database studies HR 1.07, p = 0.14), CSS (HR 0.91, p = 0.85), or DFS (HR 1.04, p = 0.78) in elderly patients with stage I NSCLC. In contrast, wedge resection showed inferior OS (HR 1.28, p < 0.001), CSS (HR 1.17, p = 0.001) and DFS (HR 1.44, p = 0.042) compared to lobectomy. Segmentectomy also showed comparable local recurrence risk with lobectomy (OR 0.98, p = 0.98), while wedge resection showed increased risk (OR 5.46, p < 0.001). Furthermore, sublobar resections showed a decreased risk of 30/90-day mortality, pneumonia, and leak complications compared to lobectomy. Conclusion: Segmentectomy is promising when applied to elderly patients with stage I NSCLC, while wedge resection should be limited. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate these findings.
Impact of Water Exposure and Temperature Changes on Skin Barrier Function
Authors: Herrero-Fernandez Manuel , Montero-Vilchez Trinidad , Diaz-Calvillo Pablo , Romera-Vilchez Maria , Buendia-Eisman Agustin , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: January 2022

The frequency of hand hygiene has increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but there is little evidence regarding the impact of water exposure and temperature on skin. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of water exposure and temperature on skin barrier function in healthy individuals. A prospective observational study was conducted. Temperature, pH, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema and stratum corneum hydration (SCH) were measured objectively before and after hot- and cold-water exposure and TempTest® (Microcaya TempTest, Bilbao, Spain) contact. Fifty healthy volunteers were enrolled. Hot-water exposure increased TEWL (25.75 vs. 58.58 g·h−1·m−2), pH (6.33 vs. 6.65) and erythema (249.45 vs. 286.34 AU). Cold-water immersion increased TEWL (25.75 vs. 34.96 g·h−1·m−2) and pH (6.33 vs. 6.62). TEWL (7.99 vs. 9.98 g·h−1·m−2) and erythema (209.07 vs. 227.79 AU) increased after being in contact with the hot region (44 °C) of the TempTest. No significant differences were found after contact with the cold region (4 °C) of the TempTest. In conclusion, long and continuous water exposure damages skin barrier function, with hot water being even more harmful. It would be advisable to use cold or lukewarm water for handwashing and avoid hot water. Knowing the proper temperature for hand washing might be an important measure to prevent flares in patients with previous inflammatory skin diseases on their hands.
Chemical Supercritical Fluid Infiltration of Pyrocarbon with Thermal Gradients: Deposition Kinetics and Multiphysics Modeling
Authors: Vignoles Gerard L. , Talué Gaëtan , Badey Quentin , Guette Alain , Pailler René , Le Petitcorps Yann , Maillé Laurence
Published: January 2022

The chemical supercritical fluid infiltration process is a recent variation of the chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) process that allows rapid and efficient manufacturing of ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs), albeit still needing optimization. This article proposes a quantitative assessment of the process dynamics through experiments and modeling. The kinetics of carbon deposition were determined through two sets of experiments: CVD on a single filament at pressures between 10 and 50 bar and infiltration at pressures ranging between 50 and 120 bar. The CVI experiments were conducted under important thermal gradients and were interpreted using a model-based reconstitution of these gradients. We found that (i) the kinetic law has to incorporate the potential effect of the reverse reaction (i.e., etching of C by H2); (ii) the activation energy and pre-exponential factor both decrease with pressure up to 50 bar, then remain roughly constant, and (iii) although the apparent activation energy is modest, a favorable situation occurs in which an infiltration front builds up and travels from the hottest to the coldest part of the preform due to the presence of sufficient heat flux. A numerical simulation of the process, based on the solution of momentum, heat, and mass balance equations, fed with appropriate laws for the effective transfer properties of the porous medium and their evolution with infiltration progress, was performed and validated by comparing the simulated and actual infiltration profiles.
Significant Reduction in Energy Consumption and Carbon Emission While Improving Productivity in Laser Drilling of CFRP Sheets with a Novel Stepped Process Parameter Parallel Ring Method
Authors: Zhu Menghui , Wei Chao , Guo Wei , Zhang Zhizhou , Ouyang Jinglei , Mativenga Paul , Li Lin
Published: January 2022

Although laser drilling of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites offers the advantages of zero tool-wear and avoidance of fibre delamination compared with mechanical drilling, it consumes considerably more energy during the drilling process. This research shows that by using a new, stepped parameter parallel ring laser hole drilling method, an energy saving of 78.10% and an 18.37 gCO2 reduction for each hole, while improving productivity by more than 300%, can be achieved in laser drilling of 6 mm diameter holes in CFRP sheets of 2 mm in thickness, compared with previous laser drilling methods under the same drilling quality. The key reason for this is an increase in energy input to the inner rings enabling more rapid removal of the material, while the lower energy input for the outer ring provides a shielding trench to reduce the heat loss into the parent material. The results are compared with single-ring laser drilling and multiple-ring laser drilling with constant processing parameters, and a discussion is given on comparing with mechanical drilling and future prospects, including a combined mechanical drilling and laser pre-scribing process.
Implementation of the IMO Second Generation Intact Stability Guidelines
Authors: Marlantes Kyle E. , Kim Sungeun (Peter) , Hurt Lucas A.
Published: January 2022

This paper provides a discussion of the technical and theoretical ambiguities, requirements, and limitations to develop a practical implementation of the IMO Second Generation Intact Stability criteria. This discussion is the result of industry collaboration, where two implementations of the guidelines were developed jointly, albeit independently. Both implementations were then used to assess four sample cases: C11 container ship, KRISO container ship (KCS), barge, and fishing vessel, for which the detailed particulars and results are given. Conclusions on the practicalities of use, a comparison of the results, and suggestions on how the criteria might be integrated into a workflow are also given.
Experimental Investigation of the Performance of a Tuned Heave Plate Energy Harvesting System for a Semi-Submersible Platform
Authors: Liu Kun , Liang Haizhi , Ou Jingpin , Ye Jiawei , Wang Dongjiao
Published: January 2022

Heave plates are widely used for improving the sea keeping performance of ocean structures. In this paper, a novel tuned heave plate energy harvesting system (THPEH) is presented for the motion suppression and energy harvesting of a semi-submersible platform. The heave plates are connected to the platform though a power take-off system (PTO) and spring supports. The performance of the THPEH was investigated through forced oscillation tests of a 1:20 scale model. Firstly, the hydrodynamic parameters of the heave plate were experimentally studied under different excitation motion conditions, and a force model of the power take-off system was also established through a calibration test. Then, the motion performance, control performance, and energy harvesting performance of the THPEH subsystem were systematically studied. The effects of the tuned period and PTO damping on the performance of the THPEH were analyzed. Finally, a comparison between the conventional fixed heave plate system and THPEH was carried out. The results show that a properly designed THPEH could consume up to 2.5 times the energy from the platform motion compared to the fixed heave plate system, and up to 80% of the consumed energy could be captured by the PTO system. This indicates that the THPEH could significantly reduce the motion of the platform and simultaneously provide considerable renewable energy to the platform.
Path Tracking of an Underwater Snake Robot and Locomotion Efficiency Optimization Based on Improved Pigeon-Inspired Algorithm
Authors: Xu Bo , Jiao Mingyu , Zhang Xianku , Zhang Dalong
Published: January 2022

This paper considers the tracking control of curved paths for an underwater snake robot, and investigates the methods used to improve energy efficiency. Combined with the path-planning method based on PCSI (parametric cubic-spline interpolation), an improved LOS (light of sight) method is proposed to design the controller and guide the robot to move along the desired path. The evaluation of the energy efficiency of robot locomotion is discussed. In particular, a pigeon-inspired optimization algorithm improved by quantum rules (QPIO) is proposed for dynamically selecting the gait parameters that maximize energy efficiency. Simulation results show that the proposed controller enables the robot to accurately follow the curved path and that the QPIO algorithm is effective in improving robot energy efficiency.
Micro-Aid Liquid 10 Promotes Growth Performance and Health Status of White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Huang Kuo-Chin , Lee Jai-Wei , Shiu Ya-Li , Ballantyne Rolissa , Liu Chun-Hung
Published: January 2022

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of the Micro-Aid Liquid 10 (MAL10) (DPI Global, Porterville, CA, USA), a product made from yucca extract, on growth performance, gut microbiota, and resistance of white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei against infectious disease caused by Vibrio alginolyticus. MAL10 was added to shrimp rearing water at different levels of 0 (control), 0.25 mL m3−1 (W0.25), 0.5 mL m3−1 (W0.5), 1 mL m3−1 (W1), and 5 mL m3−1 (W5), respectively, once per week for 70 days. Growth performances, including final body weight, specific growth rate, average daily growth and percentage of weight gain, were significantly improved by adding the MAL10 at levels up to 5 mL m3−1, which may be due to the proliferation of B cells in hepatopancreas of MAL10-treated shrimp. No significant differences in the total viable count and Vibrio-like count in the gut of shrimp were recorded by spread plate method. In the challenge test, shrimp reared in the water supplemented with MAL10 at levels of 1–5 mL m3−1 had significantly lower cumulative mortality after a challenge test with V. alginolyticus compared to shrimp reared in the control, W0.25 and W0.5 groups. Next-generation sequencing indicated that the relative distribution of phylum Proteobacteria in control (80.4%) was higher than the W (77.4%). The proportion of Vibrio was primarily dominant genera in the shrimp intestine and highest in the control group compared to the W group, followed by Spongiimonas, Motilimonas, Demequina, and Shewanella genera. Although there was no statistically significant difference, higher α-diversity indices were recorded in the W5-treated group than in the control group. Therefore, it is considered that MAL10 could be used as a natural alternative in shrimp aquaculture to reduce the risk of infectious disease caused by pathogenic Vibrio and improve the growth performance of white shrimp.
The Spatial Variation of Acoustic Water Column Data and Its Relationship with Reef-Associated Fish Recorded by Baited Remote Underwater Stereo-Videos off the Western Australia Coast
Authors: Landero Figueroa Marcela Montserrat , Parsons Miles J. G. , Saunders Benjamin J. , Parnum Iain M.
Published: January 2022

Spatially explicit information on coral fish species abundance and distribution is required for effective management. Nonextractive techniques, including echosounders and video census, can be particularly useful in marine reserves where the use of extractive methods is restricted. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of combining echosounders and baited remote underwater stereo-videos (stereo-BRUVs) in providing more holistic information on the distribution of demersal and semidemersal reef-associated fish. The spatial distribution of fish biomass was assessed using both methods in two small areas, one in Cockburn Sound (CS), a temperate body of water, and the other in the tropical waters of the Ningaloo Marine Park (NMP). The results showed high correlations between the acoustic and stereo-BRUV data in CS, suggesting the potential use of both for a better estimation of biomass in the area. The results for the NMP showed weaker correlations between the two datasets and highlighted the high variability of the system. Further studies are required, but our initial findings suggest a potential benefit of combining both techniques in the reef-associated fish distribution assessment.
Distribution and Source Sites of Nonlinear Internal Waves Northeast of Hainan Island
Authors: Liang Jianjun , Li Xiao-Ming , Fan Kaiguo
Published: January 2022

The distribution and source sites of nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs) northeast of Hainan Island were investigated using satellite observations and a wavefront propagation model. Satellite observations show two types of NLIWs (here referred to as type-S and type-D waves). The type-S waves are spaced at a semidiurnal tidal period and the type-D waves are spaced at a diurnal tidal period. The spatial distribution of the two types of NLIWs displays a sandwich structure in which the middle region is influenced by both types of NLIWs, and the northern and southern regions are governed by the type-S and type-D waves, respectively. Solving the wavefront model yields good agreement between simulated and observed wavefronts from the Luzon Strait to Hainan Island. We conclude that the NLIWs originate from the Luzon Strait.
Spatial Distribution of Sound Scattering Layer and Density Estimation of Euphausia pacifica in the Center of the Yellow Sea Bottom Cold Water Determined by Hydroacoustic Surveying
Authors: Kim Hansoo , Kim Garam , Kim Mira , Kang Donhyug
Published: January 2022

The Yellow Sea Bottom Cold Water (YSBCW) refers to seawater with a water temperature of 10 °C or less found at the bottom of the center of the Yellow Sea. The spatiotemporal variability of the YSBCW directly affects the distribution of organisms in the marine ecosystem. In this study, hydroacoustic and net surveys were conducted in April (spring) to understand the spatial distribution of the sound scattering layer (SSL) and estimate the density of Euphausia pacifica (E. pacifica) in the YSBCW. Despite the shallow water in the YSBCW region, E. pacifica formed an SSL, which was distributed near the bottom during the daytime; it showed a diel vertical migration (DVM) pattern of movement toward the surface during the nighttime. The mean upward and downward swimming speeds around sunset and sunrise were approximately 0.6 and 0.3–0.4 m/min, respectively. The E. pacifica density was estimated in the central, western, and eastern regions; the results were approximately 15.8, 1.3, and 10.3 g/m2, respectively, indicating significant differences according to region. The results revealed high-density distributions in the central and eastern regions related to the water temperature structure, which differs regionally in the YSBCW area. Additional studies are needed regarding the spatial distribution of E. pacifica in the YSBCW and its relationship with various ocean environmental parameters according to season. The results of this study contribute to a greater understanding of the structure of the marine ecosystem in the YSBCW.