bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Lymph Node Classification-based cancer-specific Survival Predicting Model in Patients with Ampullary cancer: A Derivation and Validation Study
Authors: Zhao Jixiang , Zou Yunzhi , Huang Xin , Zhou Xiong , Zhou Xiaojiang , Song Conghua
Published: March 2021

Background: Current lymph node (LN) staging is controversial in predicting the survival of ampullary cancer (AC). We aimed to develop an alternative LN-classification-based nomogram to individualize AC prognosis.Methods: Using the data of patients diagnosed with AC between 2004 and 2015 from the SEER database, we determined the cut-off values for the number of LNs examined via the K-adaptive partitioning algorithm. A nomogram predicting the survival of AC patients was performed, internally and externally validated, and evaluated by calibration plot, C-index, and decision curve analysis (DCA), and was compared to the 7th TNM stage.Results: We included 2341 patients with detailed information. The optimal cut-off for examined LN number was 12, while the cut-off value for positive LNs was 0 and 4. The C-index for the nomogram was higher than that of the 7th TNM staging (internal: 0.686; 95% CI, 0.584-0.773 vs. 0.616; 95% CI, 0.533-0.754, P < 0.001; external: 0.713; 95% CI, 0.651-0.784 vs. 0.647; 95% CI, 0.551-0.719, P < 0.001). Additionally, the nomogram showed good agreement between internal and external validation. DCA analysis showed no matter in the internal cohort or external cohort; the nomogram showed a greater benefit across the period of follow-up than did the 7th TNM stage.Conclusion: We found that examined LNs that were more than 12 were beneficial for prognosis of patients. We also modified the current N staging into three groups based on number of metastatic LNs: N0, no LN metastasis; N1, 1–4 metastatic LNs; N2, >=5 metastatic LNs. A nomogram with greater benefit for predicting the survival of patients with AC than TNM staging was constructed.
Double Sequential External Synchronization for Hemodynamically Stable Patients with Refractory Ventricular Tachycardia Storm: A Case Report
Authors: Chien Yu-Ta , Huang Ting-Yun
Published: March 2021

Background: Refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT) can progress to acute heart failure, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death. We introduced an alternative treatment for refractory hemodynamically stable VT storm, that is, double sequential external synchronization (DSES).Case presentation: We present a case report of a middle-aged Asian male diagnosed with refractory hemodynamically stable VT storm in which DSES successfully restored cardiac rhythm to normal sinus rhythm after several attempts of treatment with pharmacological agents and single-dose electrical cardioversion failed. The patient’s symptoms were relieved after termination of VT storm.Conclusion: This article provides a potential treatment option for hemodynamically VT that has poor response to conventional pharmacological and single electrical cardioversion.
Associations of genetic scores for birth weight with newborn size and later anthropometric traits and cardiometabolic risk markers in South Asians
Authors: Nongmaithem Suraj , Beaumont Robin , Dedaniya Akshay , Wood Andrew , Ogunkolade Babatunji , Hassan Zahid , Krishnaveni Ghattu , Kumaran Kalyanaraman , Potdar Ramesh , Sahariah Sirajul , Krishna Murali , Gravio Chiara , Mali Inder , Sankareswaran Alagu , Hussain Akhtar , Bhowmik Biswajit , Khan AK Azad , Knight Bridget , Frayling Timothy , Finer Sarah , Fall Caroline , Yajnik Chittaranjan , Freathy Rachel , Hitman Graham , Chandak Giriraj
Published: March 2021

We recently reported genetic variants associated with birth weight and their effect on future cardiometabolic risk in Europeans. Despite a higher burden of low birth weight and cardiometabolic disorders, such studies are lacking in South Asians. We generated fetal and maternal genetic scores (fGS and mGS) from 196 birth weight-associated variants identified in Europeans and conducted association analysis with various birth measures and serially measured anthropometric and cardiometabolic traits from seven Indian and Bangladeshi cohorts. Although fGS and mGS were comparable to Europeans, birth weight was substantially smaller suggesting strong environmental constraints on fetal growth in South Asians. Birth weight increased by 50.7g and 33.6g per standard deviation fGS (P=9.1x10-11) and mGS (P=0.003) in South Asians. The fGS was further associated with childhood body size and head circumference, fasting glucose, and triglycerides in adults (P<0.01). Our study supports a common genetic mechanism partly explaining associations between early development and later cardiometabolic health in different populations, despite phenotypic and environmental differences.
Effects of Varying Alx Moles on the Structure and Luminescence Properties of ZnAlxO1.5x + 1:0.1% Tb3+ Nano Phosphor Prepared using Citrate sol-gel Method
Authors: Maphiri V , Melato L , Mhlongo  , Hlatshwayo TT , Motaung TE , Koao LF , Motloung Setumo Victor
Published: March 2021

Un-doped and ZnAlxO(1.5x + 1):0.1% Tb3+ (ZAOT) nano-powders were synthesized via citrate sol-gel method. The Alx moles were varied in the range of 0.25 ≤ x ≤ 5.0. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) data revealed that for the x < 1.5, the prepared samples crystal structure consists of mixed phases of the cubic ZnAl2O4 and hexagonal ZnO phases, while for the x ≥ 1.5 the structure consists of single phase of cubic ZnAl2O4. This was confirmed by the Raman and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) vibrational spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that varying Alx moles influences the morphology while Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows the dual morphology at x < 1.5. The photoluminescence (PL) revealed intense and distinct emissions attributed to both the host and Tb3+ transitions. The emission intensity highly depends on the Alx moles. The International Commission on Illumination (CIE) colour chromaticity showed that the emission colour could be tuned by varying the Alx moles.
Differences in Peripheral Neuropathy in Xeroderma Pigmentosum Complementation Groups A and D
Authors: Lehky Tanya , Sackstein Paul E. , Tamura Deborah , Quezado Martha , Wu Tianxia , Khan Sikandar G , Patronas Nicholas J , Wiggs Edythe , Brewer Carmen C , DiGiovanna John J , Kraemer Kenneth H
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUNDXeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder with defective DNA nucleotide excision repair and associated with a high frequency of skin cancer. Approximately 25% of patients develop progressive neurological degeneration. Complementation groups XP-A and XP-D are most frequently associated with neurological disorders. METHODSThis is a retrospective review of patients with XP who were evaluated at NIH from 1986 to 2015 and had nerve conduction studies (NCS). Audiological, brain imaging, neuropsychological assessments were also performed on most of the patients. Limited neuropathology of XP-A and XP-D patients were compared. RESULTSThe 33 patients had NCS: XP-A (9 patients), XP-C (7 patients), XP-D (10 patients), XP-E (1 patient), XP-V (4 patients), and XP-unknown (2 patients). Peripheral neuropathy was documented only in two complementation groups: 78% (7/9) of XP-A patients had a sensorimotor neuropathy while 50% (5/10) of XP-D patients had a sensory neuropathy only. The severity of the neuropathy correlated with hearing loss. CONCLUSIONSDespite similar brain imaging and audiological findings patients, XP-A and XP-D complementation groups differ in the type of neuropathy, sensorimotor versus sensory alone. A few cases suggest that sensorineural hearing loss and absent deep tendon reflexes may precede abnormal NCS in XP and therefore serve as valuable clinical indicators of XP patients that will later develop peripheral neuropathy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Patients were evaluated under clinical protocols, NCT00001813 and NCT00046189, approved by the NIH Institutional Review Boards.
Paired-end small RNA sequencing reveals a possible overestimation in the isomiR sequence repertoire previously reported from conventional single read data analysis
Authors: Sanchez-Herrero Jose Francisco , Pluvinet Raquel , Haro Antonio Luna-de , Sumoy Lauro
Published: March 2021

Background

Next generation sequencing has allowed the discovery of miRNA isoforms, termed isomirs. Some isomirs are derived from imprecise processing of pre-miRNA precursors, leading to length variants. Additional variability is introduced by non-templated addition of bases at the ends or editing of internal bases, resulting in base differences relative to the template DNA sequence. We hypothesized that some component of the isomir variation reported so far could be due to systematic technical noise and not real.
Results

We have developed the XICRA pipeline to analyze small RNA sequencing data at the isomir level. We exploited its ability to use single or merged reads to compare isomir results derived from paired-end (PE) reads with those from single reads (SR) to address whether detectable sequence differences relative to canonical miRNAs found in isomirs are true biological variations or the result of errors in sequencing. We have detected non-negligible systematic differences between SR and PE data which primarily affect putative internally edited isomirs, and at a much smaller frequency terminal length changing isomirs. This is relevant for the identification of true isomirs in small RNA sequencing datasets.
Conclusions

We conclude that potential artifacts derived from sequencing errors and/or data processing could result in an overestimation of abundance and diversity of miRNA isoforms. Efforts in annotating the isomirnome should take this into account.
Desulphurization of commercial diesel fuel using carbon-based metal oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Cherubala Bienvenu Rusumba , Kabuba John , Rutto Limo
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a slight on desulphurization process of the commercial diesel fuel using the carbon-based metal oxide nanocomposites such as graphene oxide, ZnO, rGO as a nano-adsorbent, activated carbon (PAC and AC) and charcoal Granular active carbon (GAC) to produce a fuel of less than 10 ppm sulphur content. The synthesised of sorbents were achieved using incipient impregnation, microwaved-assisted and chemical exfoliation methods. The materials were characterized using Thermogrametric Analyzer (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET). The examination effect of operating conditions on the adsorption capacity with DBT and Sulphur compounds adsorption, the isotherms and the adsorption kinetic models were evaluated. The experimental data for PAC and AC were well suited to Freundlich isotherm and pseudo second-order kinetic models. The results shown that the sulphur feed concentration, the space velocity and the functional groups of the adsorbents have a considerable effect on the adsorption. In addition, it was observed that the temperature in the range of 30 to 80oC has a significant effect on the adsorption of Sulphur compounds from diesel fuel using 20 wt% of sorbents. The rGO substrate which contained abundant oxygen functional groups was confirmed to promote the dispersion metal oxide and increased the adsorption efficiency of sulphur compounds (H2S and SO2) by providing oxygen ions weakly bound to the sulphur molecules. For the desulfurization process by adsorption, PAC and AC exhibited a better affinity for 80% removal of sulphur compared to the GAC and GO.
Insulin Increases Central Aortic Stiffness in Response To Hyperglycemia in Healthy Humans: A Randomized Four-Way Crossover Study
Authors: Horton William B , Jahn Linda A , Hartline Lee M , Aylor Kevin W , Patrie James T , Barrett Eugene J
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Increasing arterial stiffness is a feature of vascular aging that is accelerated by conditions that enhance cardiovascular risk, including diabetes mellitus. Multiple studies demonstrate divergence of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and augmentation index in persons with diabetes mellitus, though mechanisms responsible for this are unclear.Materials and Methods: We tested the effect of acutely and independently increasing plasma glucose, plasma insulin, or both on hemodynamic function and markers of arterial stiffness (including carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, forward and backward wave reflection amplitude, and wave reflection magnitude) in a four-arm, randomized study of healthy young adults.Results: Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity increased only during hyperglycemic-hyperinsulinemia (+0.36 m/s; p=0.032), while other markers of arterial stiffness did not change (all p>0.05). Heart rate (+3.62 bpm; p=0.009), mean arterial pressure (+4.14 mmHg; p=0.033), central diastolic blood pressure (+4.16 mmHg; p=0.038), and peripheral diastolic blood pressure (+4.09 mmHg; p=0.044) also significantly increased during hyperglycemic-hyperinsulinemia.Conclusions: We conclude that the acute combination of moderate hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia preferentially stiffens central elastic arteries. This effect may be due to increased sympathetic activity. (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT03520569; registered 9 May 2018).
A REVIEW OF QUALITY CONTROL IN HISTOCHEMISTRY AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY STAINING
Authors: Ardiyan Yustina Nuke
Published: March 2021

Background: Tissue staining methods need controls to give best quality results. Controls is necessary to support the validity, correctness, and reliability of the staining results. Haematoxylin and Eosin (HE) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining require different control quality.

Objective: To discuss the utilization of controls used in tissue staining.

Method: This is a narrative review with literature from 2008-2016.

Results: Routine staining usually does not require any control. Specific stainings require controls to support the validity, correctness, and reliability of the staining results. Histochemistry staining requires only positive control, while positive and negative controls must be included in IHC staining. A tissue section which expresses the protein of interest is reffered to positive control, whereas those without any target antigen expression are defined as negative control.

Conclusion: Histochemistry and IHC staining controls are needed to obtain the validity of the tissue or cell samples.
Using managerial and market tools to measure the impact of acquisition operations on firm performance
Authors: Abdelmoneim Zakia , Abdelrahman Fekry Mostafa
Published: March 2021

This paper aims to investigate and evaluate the effect of pre- and post-mergers and acquisitions (M&A) on non-financial Egyptian firms’ performance using a balanced scorecard (BSC), as well as to empirically investigate the impact of M&A on shareholder wealth using cumulative abnormal returns (CAR). The paper is limited to non-financial firms listed on the Egyptian stock market (EGX) that have undergone acquisition operations during the time specified in the paper from 2003 to 2016. Four perspectives for the BSC are assessed before and after the acquisition operations to evaluate performance. The final sample for the BSC appraisal is 12 companies for 12 acquisition operations, while the sample for shareholders’ wealth consists of 10 companies. The difference in the sample is that some companies became out-of-counter after the M&A process. Cumulative differential analysis and graph observation show preferable values for post-acquisition operations versus pre-acquisition operations for the three non-financial perspectives, namely Customer satisfaction, Learning and growth, and Internal business process, and for two financial perspectives, namely Sales and Profitability. The results show preferable values for pre-acquisition operations for two financial perspectives: Liquidity and Market value. The T-test results failed to establish a relationship between M&A and enhancing BSC perspectives. The results could not find any evidence to support the impact of pre-post M&A on the shareholders’ wealth. The relationship between BSC before and after M&A and CAR is tested using a multiple regression model. The results show a significant relationship only between shareholder wealth and the Learning and growth perspective.
Formation of a new paradigm of anti-money laundering: The experience of Ukraine
Authors: S. Vitvitskiy Sergij , N. Kurakin Oleksandr , S. Pokataev Pavlo , M. Skriabin Oleksii , B. Sanakoiev Dmytro
Published: March 2021

The increase in the level of money laundering is associated with digitalization and technification of all spheres of society, the globalization of financial markets, the consequences of quarantine measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the new ways of committing money laundering crimes. The paper aims to identify the peculiarities of anti-money laundering activities in Ukraine and outline approaches to increase the effectiveness of combating money laundering in the country. The current state of the problem of money laundering is analyzed based on the study literary sources, regulatory framework and their discussion in the Ukrainian society. An attempt was made to systematize the factors influencing the increase in the level of money laundering. The consequences of increasing the level of money laundering for Ukraine have been determined: a shortfall in state budget revenues, a decrease in the level of the social sphere financing, reduced living standards of the population. It has been emphasized that there is a need for a comprehensive approach to the problem of money laundering, which will include ongoing training for financial audit specialists, the establishment of special units to investigate money laundering crimes, enshrining the classification of money laundering crimes in regulatory documents and the establishment of criminal liability for their commission.
MINIATURIZED LIQUID-LIQUID EXTRACTION WITH LOW-TEMPERATURE PARTITIONING TECHNIQUE (LLE/LTP) FOR PESTICIDE ANALYSIS IN A BIOLOGICAL MATRIX BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors: Silva Thaís , de Queiroz Maria Eliana , Neves Antônio , Vieira Patrícia , de Oliveira André , Oliveira Maria
Published: March 2021

The liquid-liquid extraction with low-temperature partitioning technique (LLE/LTP) was miniaturized to determine the pesticides chlorpyrifos, bifenthrin, λ-cyhalothrin, and deltamethrin in a biological matrix, by gas chromatography. The method was proposed for fetal-bovine serum samples (500 μL), by using a full factorial design (23) with one center point. The evaluated factors included the volume of water added to the sample (1000 μL), volume of extraction solvent (500 μL) and stirring time (60 s) – a cleanup step was not necessary. The method was validated for the main figures of merit. The results indicated that the LLE/LTP/GC/ECD miniaturized method was efficient in extracting pesticides from blood-serum samples (75 to 115%). It showed both selectivity and sensitiveness, with limits of quantification (LOQ) ranging from 8 at 17 μg L-1. Once validated, the method was applied to blood-serum samples of rural workers from a city in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. In that case, the presence of chlorpyrifos was detected in two of the samples.
Evolution of meteorological factors during 1980–2015 in the Daqing River Basin, North China
Authors: Jiao Yufei , Liu Jia , Li Chuanzhe , Qiu Qingtai , Zhang Xiaojiao , Yu Fuliang
Published: March 2021

Precipitation and temperature data, such as the homogeneity, trend, abrupt change, and periodicity, obtained at 40 meteorological stations in the Daqing River Basin from 1980 to 2015 are analyzed using the Mann–Kendall method, anomaly accumulation, Rescaled range analysis (R/S analysis) and wavelet transform. The regularity of climate change is studied to provide guidelines for the rational utilization of water resources. The results show that the annual precipitation has an insignificant upward trend and suddenly changes in 2007. The precipitation evolution can be divided into three types of periodicity, that is, 22–32, 8–16, and 3–7 year time scales, where the 28 year scale is the first main period of precipitation change. The annual average temperature shows a notable upward trend, with 1992 as the change year. The annual average temperature can be divided into three types of periodicity, that is, the 25–32, 14–20, and 5–10 year time scales, where the 28 year scale is the first main period of temperature change. In conclusion, the climate of the Daqing River Basin gradually turns into humid and hot climate. The results provide valuable reference for the assessment of the effects of climate change, and the management of water resources.
Multi-scale flood prediction based on GM (1,2)-fuzzy weighted Markov and wavelet analysis
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Wang Yuhao , Zhao Yong , Fang Hongyuan
Published: March 2021

In order to forecast flood accurately and reveal the relationship between rainstorm and flood at the micro level, a model which combines wavelet analysis, GM (1,2) and fuzzy weighted Markov is built. Taking the Jialu River of Zhengzhou City in China as study area, the GM (1,2) model is constructed between the components of rainfall and flood volume by wavelet decomposition to connect the two variables, then a fuzzy weighted Markov method is introduced to correct the predicted component of flood volume. The corrected results are superimposed to obtain the predicted value of flood. To verify the reliability of the model, the maximum daily, 3-, 5- and 7-day flood volume of the next five floods in Zhongmu and Jiangang hydrological stations are predicted in turn. The results show that the multi-scale flood forecasting model has high overall forecasting accuracy, with the average relative errors all less than 10%. The forecasting accuracy of maximum five-day flood volume is higher than other periods. On the micro level, the results indicate that the fluctuation trend and period of rainfall-flood volume in d1, d2 and d3 are basically the same. Among the components of forecasted flood, the impact of rainfall on flood volume is most significant in the d3 component.
Water–sediment separation efficiency prediction of gill-piece separation device
Authors: Tao Hongfei , Zhou Yang , Aihemaiti Mahemujiang , Li Qiao , Yang Wenxin , Jiang Youwei , Wu Zijing
Published: March 2021

As the key piece of equipment of a micro-irrigation system, the filter can prevent clogging of the emitter and ensure normal operation of the micro-irrigation system. A gill-piece separation device is used for the removal of viscous sediment, which helps to reduce the sediment concentration and decrease the burden on the filter. In this study, using the water–sediment separation efficiency as an evaluation index, a uniform orthogonal experiment was conducted to study the flow rate, sediment concentration, and gill-piece spacing using a physical model. Based on the experimental results of the physical model, multiple linear regression and projection pursuit regression were used for analysis. The results showed that the order of the factors affecting the water–sediment separation efficiency was as follows: flow rate at muddy water inlet > gill-piece spacing > sediment concentration. The correlation coefficients of the water–sediment separation efficiency models established using multiple linear regression and projection pursuit regression were 0.93 and 0.98, respectively. Both models could predict the water–sediment separation efficiency and determine the optimal working conditions of the gill-piece separation device.
THE ISSUE OF INTELLECTUAL INTUITION IN METAPHYSICS
Authors: Piętka Dariusz
Published: March 2021

The article presents problems of intellectual intuition in metaphysics from a semiotic point of view. There are various types of intuition in philosophy: rational intuition, irrational intuition, and sensual intuition. All of them are immediate ways of cognition. Classical metaphysics uses intellectual intuition as its main method to find out and justify its statements. The main problem of intellectual intuition is an intersubjective approach to the object of metaphysics. The main aim of this paper is the objectivization and rationalization of intellectual intuition in language. The semantic notion of meaning and the pragmatic notion of understanding are the fundamental tools which are used to translate the issue of intuition from the subject-ma$er level into the language level. This operation allows to look at intuition in a non-psychological manner. It enables the objectivization of the method of intellectual intuition in the light of the understanding of meanings.
PHENOMENOLOGY BETWEEN INTERNALISM AND EXTERNALISM. PROBLEM STATEMENT
Authors: Płotka Witold
Published: March 2021

The article is an attempt at establishing a theoretical basis for a dialogue between phenomenology and contemporary philosophy, with regard to the problem of internalism-externalism. It is argued, according to Roman Ingarden, that one has to first of all put forward an adequate question about the problem, to be able to understand it appropriately. Moreover, the analysis is limited to the two forms of the internalism-externalism debate, namely semantics and the philosophy of the mind. Within Husserl’s phenomenology one can easily point to basic intuitions that justify thesis that this philosophy refers to the internalism-externalism problem. Ultimately, by using phenomenological terminology, the article arrives at questions about possible internalism-or-externalism within Husserl’s phenomenological project. The questions, however, suggest that phenomenology can be neither clearly nor completely classified either as internalism or as externalism.
THE NEW EXPERIMENTALISM AND THE VALUE OF EXPERIMENTAL JUSTIFICATION IN EMPIRICAL SCIENCES
Authors: Bombik Mieczysław
Published: March 2021

This article briefly presents and characterizes a relatively young (nineteen-nineties) trend in methodology, the theory of science – and philosophy, called “the new experimentalism”. The fundamental problem is determined by the question about the value of the new experimentalism and experimental grounds of scientific knowledge in empirical sciences. In the first part of the article, the previous (old) experimentalism is presented. First of all, the history of the experimental method is outlined and the definitions of experiment, object, phenomenon, and of the carried out and analyzed observation are provided. It is shown why the main proposition of experimentalists – “determining a fact based on sensory experience” is fallacious. The second part describes the way in which the representatives of the new experimentalism try to identify and characterize those factors of an experiment that guarantee the objectivity of its result; demonstrate that results are not only determined by psychological, historical, sociological or economic factors but also that they exist in nature as real objects and events. A correct and reliable analysis of the experiment and its results may – according to the new experimentalists – contribute to this conclusion. Therefore, the important role and value of the experimental foundation of social activity in general, and in particular, for the natural sciences, is rightly noted.
ETHOS, BOUNDARIES AND PRACTICAL TASKS OF PATRIOTISM
Authors: Ślipko Tadeusz
Published: March 2021

The main thesis of this article states that patriotism constitutes a key role in the process of globalization. The author perceives the moral dimension of nation and homeland categories as the validation of such a position. Patriotism, which is not chauvinism, deeply connects with its own nation, as well as homeland, and due to its very nature, should be open to foreigners and other nations.
3-T MRI in Patients who Received Anterior Cervical Discectomy and
Fusion Surgery with MAVRIC SL IR Sequence: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Yang Renjie , Liu Changsheng , Li Liang , Chen Liang , Liu Weiyin Vivian , Zha Yunfei
Published: March 2021

Objective:

We aimed to investigate the feasibility of multi-acquisition with variable
resonance image combination slab selectivity inversion recovery (MAVRIC SL IR) sequence on 3.0
T MRI in patients with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery compared to
bandwidth-optimized short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequence.

Methods:

Paired sagittal MR images of MAVRIC SL IR and bandwidth-optimized STIR sequences
were acquired and analyzed for 21 patients after ACDF surgery with PEEK cage-plate construct.
Quantitative comparisons were made on the metal artifact areas of paired mid-sagittal images. In
qualitative analysis, the consistency of fat suppression and visibility of anatomic structures (bonemetal
interface, surrounding soft tissues, and spinal cord) were independently assessed, based on a
five-point scale by two musculoskeletal radiologists, who were blind to the images and patient
details.

Results:

The application of the MAVRIC SL IR sequence resulted in a significant reduction of 48%
in the mean area of metal artifacts (t = -7.141, p < 0.001). Based on the comments received from
both the reviewers, the MAVRIC SL IR sequence showed greater visibility of the bone-metal
interface (p < 0.001), considerable visibility of the surrounding soft tissues (p > 0.05) but worse
visibility of the spinal cord (p < 0.001), including the consistency of fat suppression (p < 0.001)
relative to the bandwidth-optimized STIR sequence.

Conclusion:

With significantly reduced metal artifacts, the MAVRIC SL IR sequence can be
implemented in patients undergoing ACDF surgery with PEEK cage-plate construct for 3.0 T MRI,
despite the poor visibility of the spinal cord.
Comparison of Pharmacodynamics and Celiac Effects of Olmesartan Medoxomil Formulations by using Olmesartan-induced Celiac-rat-model
Authors: Komesli Yelda , Ergur Bekir Ugur , Karasulu Ercument
Published: March 2021

:

Olmesartan Medoxomil (OM) is an angiotensin receptor blocker and has the adverse effect
of celiac like enteropathy which was accepted by the FDA in 2013. This disease is characterized
by severe diarrhea, weight loss and enteropathy. Although there are many case reports associated
with olmesartan-related enteropathy in humans, it has not been described in a long-term animal
model study so far. We developed a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (OM-SMEDDS)
in our previous study to reduce this side effect of the drug and to enhance bioavailability. In this
study, an artificial hypertension model was established with a dose of 185 μmol /kg L-NAME (N
ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester) twice in a day intraperitoneally in Wistar albino rats. To determine
and compare side effects, the OM-Suspension and OM-SMEDDS were administered at 1.3
mg/kg therapeutic dose during one-month period to the rats. Tension of rats was recorded by measuring
from their tails with non invasive blood pressure system. We observed celiac like enteropathy
findings like villous atrophy and intraepithelial lymphocytosis and clinical changes like weight
loss and severe diarrhea after the treatment with OM-Suspension during one-month experiment. It
was also observed that the antihypertensive efficacy of the OM-SMEDDS formulation was higher
than the suspension during the experiment, which did not cause enteropathy, diarrhea and weight
loss by reducing intestinal exposure. Hereby, we evaluated the side effects of two different pharmaceutical
forms by designing a sustainable and reproducible celiac rat model that can be induced
with olmesartan medoxomil.
The Complex Interrelationship between Diabetes Mellitus, Oral Diseases
and General Health
Authors: Grisi Daniela Corrêa , Vieira Isabel Verlangeiro , de Almeida Lima Ana Karolina , de Oliveira Mattos Mariana Caldas , Damé-Teixeira Nailê , Salles Loise Pedrosa , de Oliveira Laudimar Alves , Stefani Cristine , do Carmo Machado Guimarães Maria
Published: March 2021

:

There is emerging evidence that several oral diseases and conditions can be associated
with DM. Dental caries, hyposalivation, fungal diseases and endodontics lesions may represent potential
oral complications that can be aggravated by chronic hyperglycemia. Individuals with DM
have a low perception of oral diseases which can lead to clinically important oral and systemic complications.
This review aims to provide data on the most common oral signs and symptoms related
to DM and to explore the mechanisms that might explain associations between DM and oral diseases
in order to clarify the risks posed by poor oral health in DM. Since the linkage between oral diseases
and DM is part of multifactorial aspects related to chronic hyperglycemic status and several
common conditions affecting the whole body, both require rigorous self-control from patients and
attention from medical and dental professionals.
Diabetic Gastroenteropathy: Soothe the Symptoms or Unravel a Cure?
Authors: Meling Sondre , Bertoli Davide , Sangnes Dag A. , Brock Christina , Drewes Asbjørn , Ejskjaer Niels , Dimcevski Georg , Søfteland Eirik
Published: March 2021

:

Autonomic neuropathy in patients with diabetes mellitus, and especially complications
related to gastrointestinal neuropathy, are often overlooked in the clinic. Diabetic gastroenteropathy
affects every segment of the gastrointestinal tract and generates symptoms that may include
nausea, early satiety, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Severe cases can be
complicated by weight loss, dehydration, and electrolyte disturbances. The pathophysiology is complex,
the diagnostics and treatment options are multidisciplinary, and there is generally a lack of
evidence for the treatment options. The aims for this review are first to summarize the pathophysiology
and describe possible and expected symptoms and complications.Further, we will try to supply
the clinician with a straightforward tool for diagnostics, and then, we shall summarize established
treatment options, including diet recommendations, pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
Finally, we will explore the multiple possibilities of novel treatment, looking at medications
related to the pathophysiology of neuropathy, other manifestations of autonomic neuropathies, and
symptomatic treatment for other gastrointestinal disorders, also including new knowledge of endosurgical
and neuromodulatory treatment. The overall goal is to increase awareness and knowledge
on this frequent diabetic complication and to provide better tools for diagnosis and treatment. Ultimately,
we hope to encourage further research in this field, as there are clear shortcomings in terms
of biomarkers, pathophysiology, as well as treatment possibilities. In conclusion, diagnosis and management
of diabetic gastroenteropathy are challenging and often require multidisciplinary teams
and multimodal therapies. Treatment options are sparse, but new pharmacological, endoscopic, and
neuromodulatory techniques have shown promising results in initial studies.
Aloe vera: An Unconventional Food Used to Reduce Hyperglycemia and Hyperlipidemia: Evidence from Pre-clinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Mamtaz Sabrina , Ghosh Susmita , Jui Smaranima G. , Chowdhury Akibul I. , Das Sudipta
Published: March 2021

The demand for various unconventional foods to reduce the complications in both communicable
and non-communicable diseases is increasing day by day. The aim of this review was to
observe the efficacy of Aloe vera in hyperglycemia and in hyperlipidemia in vivo (both animals and
humans). The studies of different authors were searched by using many scientific search engines
such as Pub Med, Google Scholar, Science Direct, the database of Open Access Journals. There are
25 animal studies and 10 human studies included in this review. By analyzing data, data were extracted
from selected articles that showed the effects of a different form of Aloe vera on diabetes
and hyperlipidemia after consumption. The result of this review covers different doses and forms
of Aloe vera, which were provided to target animals and humans for a different duration to achieve
an outcome in those articles. Most of the studies showed a significant result that means Aloe vera
has a positive effect on diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Further studies are needed to elucidate the
pathophysiological mechanisms of action of Aloe vera as well as its efficacy and safety in the
treatment of various diseases.
An Integrated Approach of Proposed Pruning Based Feature Selection Technique (PBFST) for Phishing E-mail Detection
Authors: Hota Hari Shanker , Sharma Dinesh , Shrivas Akhilesh
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

The entire world is shifting towards electronic communication through
Email for fast and secure communication. Millions of people, including organization, government,
and others, are using Email services. This growing number of Email users are facing problems;
therefore, detecting phishing Email is a challenging task, especially for non-IT users. Automatic
detection of phishing Email is essential to deploy along with Email software. Various authors have
worked in the field of phishing Email classification with different feature selection and
optimization techniques for better performance.

Objective:

This paper attempts to build a model for the detection of phishing Email using data
mining techniques. This paper's significant contribution is to develop and apply Feature Selection
Technique (FST) to reduce features from the phishing Email benchmark data set.

Methods:

The proposed Pruning Based Feature Selection Technique (PBFST) is used to determine
the rank of feature based on the level of the tree where feature exists. The proposed algorithm is
integrated with already developed Bucket Based Feature Selection Technique (BBFST). BBFST is
used as an internal part to rank features in a particular level of the tree.

Results :

Experimental work was carried out with open source WEKA data mining software using
a 10-fold cross-validation technique. The proposed FST was compared with other ranking based
FSTs to check the performance of C4.5 classifier with Phishing Email data set.

Conclusion:

The proposed FST reduces 33 features out of 47 features which exist in phishing
Email dataset and C4.5 algorithm produces remarkable accuracy of 99.06% with only 11 features
and it has been found to be better than other existing FSTs.
An Implementation Strategy to Expand Mobile Health Use in HIV Care Settings: Rapid Evaluation Study Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research
Authors: Cohn Wendy F , Canan Chelsea E , Knight Sarah , Waldman Ava Lena , Dillingham Rebecca , Ingersoll Karen , Schexnayder Julie , Flickinger Tabor E
Published: March 2021

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) apps can provide support to people living with a chronic disease by offering resources for communication, self-management, and social support. PositiveLinks (PL) is a clinic-deployed mHealth app designed to improve the health of people with HIV. In a pilot study, PL users experienced considerable improvements in care engagement and viral load suppression. To promote its expansion to other HIV clinics, we developed an implementation strategy consisting of training resources and on-demand program support.

Objective

The objective of our study was to conduct an interim analysis of the barriers and facilitators to PL implementation at early adopting sites to guide optimization of our implementation strategy.

Methods

Semistructured interviews with stakeholders at PL expansion sites were conducted. Analysis of interviews identified facilitators and barriers that were mapped to 22 constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). The purpose of the analysis was to identify the facilitators and barriers to PL implementation in order to adapt the PL implementation strategy. Four Ryan White HIV clinics were included. Interviews were conducted with one health care provider, two clinic managers, and five individuals who coordinated site PL activities.

Results

Ten common facilitators and eight common barriers were identified. Facilitators to PL implementation included PL’s fit with patient and clinic needs, PL training resources, and sites’ early engagement with their information technology personnel. Most barriers were specific to mHealth, including access to Wi-Fi networks, maintaining patient smartphone access, patient privacy concerns, and lack of clarity on how to obtain approvals for mHealth use.

Conclusions

The CFIR is a useful framework for evaluating mHealth interventions. Although PL training resources were viewed favorably, we identified important barriers to PL implementation in a sample of Ryan White clinics. This enabled our team to expand guidance on identifying information technology stakeholders and procuring and managing mobile resources. Ongoing evaluation results continue to inform improvements to the PL implementation strategy, facilitating PL access for future expansion sites.
Acute Exacerbation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Prediction System Using Wearable Device Data, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning: Development and Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Chia-Tung , Li Guo-Hung , Huang Chun-Ta , Cheng Yu-Chieh , Chen Chi-Hsien , Chien Jung-Yien , Kuo Ping-Hung , Kuo Lu-Cheng , Lai Feipei
Published: March 2021

Background

The World Health Organization has projected that by 2030, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) will be the third-leading cause of mortality and the seventh-leading cause of morbidity worldwide. Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with an accelerated decline in lung function, diminished quality of life, and higher mortality. Accurate early detection of acute exacerbations will enable early management and reduce mortality.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a prediction system using lifestyle data, environmental factors, and patient symptoms for the early detection of AECOPD in the upcoming 7 days.

Methods

This prospective study was performed at National Taiwan University Hospital. Patients with COPD that did not have a pacemaker and were not pregnant were invited for enrollment. Data on lifestyle, temperature, humidity, and fine particulate matter were collected using wearable devices (Fitbit Versa), a home air quality–sensing device (EDIMAX Airbox), and a smartphone app. AECOPD episodes were evaluated via standardized questionnaires. With these input features, we evaluated the prediction performance of machine learning models, including random forest, decision trees, k-nearest neighbor, linear discriminant analysis, and adaptive boosting, and a deep neural network model.

Results

The continuous real-time monitoring of lifestyle and indoor environment factors was implemented by integrating home air quality–sensing devices, a smartphone app, and wearable devices. All data from 67 COPD patients were collected prospectively during a mean 4-month follow-up period, resulting in the detection of 25 AECOPD episodes. For 7-day AECOPD prediction, the proposed AECOPD predictive model achieved an accuracy of 92.1%, sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 90.4%. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve of the model in predicting AECOPD was greater than 0.9. The most important variables in the model were daily steps walked, stairs climbed, and daily distance moved.

Conclusions

Using wearable devices, home air quality–sensing devices, a smartphone app, and supervised prediction algorithms, we achieved excellent power to predict whether a patient would experience AECOPD within the upcoming 7 days. The AECOPD prediction system provided an effective way to collect lifestyle and environmental data, and yielded reliable predictions of future AECOPD events. Compared with previous studies, we have comprehensively improved the performance of the AECOPD prediction model by adding objective lifestyle and environmental data. This model could yield more accurate prediction results for COPD patients than using only questionnaire data.
Common Data Elements for Meaningful Stroke Documentation in Routine Care and Clinical Research: Retrospective Data Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Berenspöhler Sarah , Minnerup Jens , Dugas Martin , Varghese Julian
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Medical information management for stroke patients is currently a very time-consuming endeavor. There are clear guidelines and procedures to treat patients having acute stroke, but it is not known how well these established practices are reflected in patient documentation.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares a variety of documentation processes regarding stroke. The main objective of this work is to provide an overview of the most commonly occurring medical concepts in stroke documentation and identify overlaps between different documentation contexts to allow for the definition of a core data set that could be used in potential data interfaces.

METHODS

Medical source documentation forms from different documentation contexts, including hospitals, clinical trials, registries, and international standards, regarding stroke treatment followed by rehabilitation were digitized in the operational data model. Each source data element was semantically annotated using the Unified Medical Language System. The concept codes were analyzed for semantic overlaps. A concept was considered common if it appeared in at least two documentation contexts. The resulting common concepts were extended with implementation details, including data types and permissible values based on frequent patterns of source data elements, using an established expert-based and semiautomatic approach.

RESULTS

In total, 3287 data elements were identified, and 1051 of these emerged as unique medical concepts. The 100 most frequent medical concepts cover 9.51% (100/1051) of all concept occurrences in stroke documentation, and the 50 most frequent concepts cover 4.75% (50/1051). A list of common data elements was implemented in different standardized machine-readable formats on a public metadata repository for interoperable reuse.

CONCLUSIONS

Standardization of medical documentation is a prerequisite for data exchange as well as the transferability and reuse of data. In the long run, standardization would save time and money and extend the capabilities for which such data could be used. In the context of this work, a lack of standardization was observed regarding current information management. Free-form text fields and intricate questions complicate automated data access and transfer between institutions. This work also revealed the potential of a unified documentation process as a core data set of the 50 most frequent common data elements, accounting for 34% of the documentation in medical information management. Such a data set offers a starting point for standardized and interoperable data collection in routine care, quality management, and clinical research.