bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“You can be blind because of loving them so much”: the impact on owners in the United Kingdom of living with a dog with osteoarthritis
Authors: Belshaw Zoe , Dean Rachel , Asher Lucy
Published: June 2020

Background

There is growing awareness that caring for a chronically ill pet may have a detrimental impact on their owner’s quality of life. Companion animal orthopaedic disease has received little research interest in this context. Canine osteoarthritis is known to negatively affect the welfare of many dogs in the United Kingdom, but its consequences for their owners has not previously been described. The aim of this study was to use a qualitative methodology to explore the impacts on a dog owner that occur following their dog’s diagnosis with osteoarthritis. Owners of osteoarthritic dogs based in the United Kingdom (UK) were recruited through veterinary practices to participate in semi-structured interview about life with their dog. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to construct key themes. This publication describes the theme that focused on the impact(s) that the dog’s condition had had on the life of their owner.

Results

Forty owners of 35 dogs of a range of breeds and ages were interviewed. A wide range of negative impacts on the physical, mental and financial health of owners were described. Few had any prior experience of canine osteoarthritis, and owners of young dogs appeared to be particularly affected by the diagnosis. Owners detailed increasing worry over time about their pet’s condition, frequently combined with a growing need to physically assist their dog. Sometimes this led them to seek information about, and purchase, adjunctive therapies and products. The dog’s reduced mobility and need for medications progressively limited their own lifestyles and ability to have time away from their pet. Owners typically described a strong bond with their dog as a motivator to provide ongoing care.

Conclusions

The negative impacts on owners of caring for an osteoarthritic dog appear multi-faceted and may be sustained over many years, particularly if the dog is young at diagnosis. Owners may be highly motivated to improve their dog’s mobility and to reduce the impact the condition has on their own lives, yet they may be unsure how to achieve this. Veterinary professionals should inform and support these owners as much as possible.
Reduced endogenous secretory RAGE in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is associated with poor prognosis in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Yamaguchi Kakuhiro , Iwamoto Hiroshi , Mazur Witold , Miura Shinichiro , Sakamoto Shinjiro , Horimasu Yasushi , Masuda Takeshi , Miyamoto Shintaro , Nakashima Taku , Ohshimo Shinichiro , Fujitaka Kazunori , Hamada Hironobu , Hattori Noboru
Published: June 2020

Background

The endogenous secretory receptor for advanced glycation end products (esRAGE) is a soluble isoform produced by alternative splicing of the RAGE gene. The isoform has anti-inflammatory properties due to its inhibition of the RAGE/ligand interaction and is reduced in the lung tissue of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This study aimed to investigate the association of esRAGE serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) levels with progression of IPF.

Methods

This study included 79 IPF patients and 90 healthy controls. IPF and control serum esRAGE levels were compared, and the correlation between serum and BALF esRAGE levels was analyzed in 57 IPF patient samples. We also investigated the relationship of esRAGE serum and BALF levels with prognoses and lung function parameters in patients with IPF.

Results

Serum esRAGE levels in IPF patients were significantly lower than those in healthy controls (162.0 ± 102.4 ng/ml and 200.7 ± 107.3 ng/ml, p = 0.009), although the baseline characteristics of age and smoking history were not matched. Serum levels of esRAGE were correlated with BALF esRAGE levels (rs = 0.317). The BALF esRAGE levels were also correlated with diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (rs = 0.406). A Kaplan-Meier curve analysis and univariate/multivariate Cox hazard proportion analysis revealed that lower levels of esRAGE in blood and BALF were significantly associated with poorer prognoses in patients with IPF.

Conclusions

Decreased esRAGE levels in BALF and blood were associated with poor prognoses in patients with IPF. These results suggest that esRAGE could be related to the pathophysiology of IPF and serum esRAGE could be a potential prognostic marker of IPF.
Impact of diabetes mellitus on clinical outcomes in patients affected by Covid-19
Authors: Sardu Celestino , Gargiulo Giuseppe , Esposito Giovanni , Paolisso Giuseppe , Marfella Raffaele
Published: June 2020

A possible association could exist between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Coronavirus-19 (Covid-19) infection. Indeed, patients with T2DM show high prevalence, severity of disease and mortality during Covid-19 infection. However, the rates of severe disease are significantly higher in patients with diabetes compared with non-diabetes (34.6% vs. 14.2%; p < 0.001). Similarly, T2DM patients have higher rates of need for Intensive Care Unit (ICU, 37.0% vs. 26.7%; p = 0.028). Thus, about the pneumonia of Covid-19, we might speculate that the complicated alveolar-capillary network of lungs could be targeted by T2DM micro-vascular damage. Therefore, T2DM patients frequently report respiratory symptoms and are at increased risk of several pulmonary diseases. In addition, pro-inflammatory pathways as that involving interleukin 6 (IL-6), could be a severity predictor of lung diseases. Therefore, it looks intuitive to speculate that this condition could explain the growing trend of cases, hospitalization and mortality for patients with T2DM during Covid-19 infection. To date, an ongoing experimental therapy with monoclonal antibody against the IL-6 receptor in Italy seems to have beneficial effects on severe lung disease and prognosis in patients with Covid-19 infection. Therefore, should patients with T2DM be treated with more attention to glycemic control and monoclonal antibody against the IL-6 receptor during the Covid-19 infection?
A case of planar-type GIST of the sigmoid colon showing diverticular structure with perforation
Authors: Shintaku Yuka , Asano Yuya , Watanabe Takahiro , Kihara Takako , Ishikawa Eri , Jiayin Yuan , Kimura Neinei , Kinoshita Koji , Hirota Seiichi
Published: June 2020

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) generally form well-defined mass lesions. However, some cases of the flatly distributed and muscularis propria-replacing GISTs have been reported so far. We experienced an additional case of planar-type GIST of the sigmoid colon accompanied by a diverticulum with perforation.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old Japanese male with sudden onset of abdominal pain was clinically diagnosed with gastrointestinal perforation, and an emergency abdominal operation was performed. A diverticulum with rupture was found in the sigmoid colon, but no apparent tumor was observed. Histological examination revealed bland spindle cells flatly proliferating and diffusely replacing the muscularis propria at the diverticular structure. The spindle cells were positive for KIT, DOG1, and CD34. Mutational analysis of the c-kit gene revealed that the lesion had a heterozygous deletion of 2 amino acids at codons 557 and 558 of exon 11. The mutation was not observed in the normal mucosa of the surrounding tissue.

Conclusion

We diagnosed this case as an unusual planar-type GIST. Some similar cases have been reported in the sigmoid colon and other sites. We discuss the mechanism of development of the planar-type GISTs associated with the diverticulum.
Effect of different doses of aspirin on the prognosis of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Wang Jinxin , Chen Huiqiao , Shi Hongying , Zhang Xuting , Shao Yiping , Hang Biyao , Xu Zhipeng , Rong Xing , Chu Maoping , Qiu Huixian
Published: June 2020

Background

Kawasaki disease (KD) is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children, and is steadily increasing in prevalence in East Asia. KD is often complicated by coronary artery damage, including dilatation and/or aneurysms. Aspirin is used with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to prevent coronary artery abnormalities in KD. However, the role and optimal dose of aspirin remain controversial. Identifying the dose of aspirin in the acute phase will facilitate development of a more appropriate treatment strategy in improving the outcome of KD.

Methods

A total of 2369 patients with KD were retrospectively analyzed and divided into three groups according to the aspirin dose: 510 in group 1 (20–29 mg/kg/day), 1487 in group 2 (30–39 mg/kg/day), and 372 in group 3 (40–50 mg/kg/day). The differences in laboratory data, rate of IVIG resistance and coronary artery damage were compared among the groups.

Results

There was no difference in the incidence of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) in group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3 (2 weeks of illness: 2.94% vs. 1.90% vs. 3.36%; 3–4 weeks of illness: 1.94% vs. 2.32% vs. 2.65%). The risk for developing CAA was not reduced at 2 weeks of illness onset in groups 2 and 3 compared with group 1 (adjusted OR = 1.05, 95% confidence interval: 0.34–3.18; aOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 0.42–7.83). Furthermore, the risk for developing CAA was not reduced at 3–4 weeks of illness onset in groups 2 and 3 (aOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 0.61–11.28; aOR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.03–9.54). There was no significant difference in the rate of IVIG resistance among the groups. Platelet levels after IVIG treatment in group 1 were significantly lower than those in groups 2 and 3 (522.29 × 109/L, 544.69 × 109/L, and 557.77 × 109/L,p = 0.013). C reactive protein of the 30-40 mg/kg*day group was slightly higher than the other two groups. (7.76, 8.00, and 7.01 mg/L,p = 0.028).

Conclusions

Aspirin at the dose of 20–29 mg/kg/day dose not increase the risk of coronary artery damage and IVIG resistance compared with the dose of 30–50 mg/kg/day. This low dose may have a lower risk for a potential effect on liver function.
Social response to the delivery of HIV self-testing in households: experiences from four Zambian HPTN 071 (PopART) urban communities
Authors: Bwalya Chiti , Simwinga Musonda , Hensen Bernadette , Gwanu Lwiindi , Hang’andu Able , Mulubwa Chama , Phiri Mwelwa , Hayes Richard , Fidler Sarah , Mwinga Alwyn , Ayles Helen , Bond Virginia ,   the HPTN 071 (PopART) study team
Published: June 2020

Background

Door-to-door distribution of HIV self-testing kits (HIVST) has the potential to increase uptake of HIV testing services (HTS). However, very few studies have explored the social response to and implications of door-to-door including secondary distribution of HIVST on household relations and the ability of individuals to self-test with or without supervision within households.

Methods

A CRT of HIVST distribution was nested within the HPTN 071 (PopART) trial, in four Zambian communities randomised to receive the PopART intervention. The nested HIVST trial aimed to increase knowledge of HIV status at population level. Between February 1 and April 30, 2017, 66 zones (clusters) within these four communities were randomly allocated to either the PopART standard of care door-to-door HTS (33 clusters) or PopART standard of care door-to-door HTS plus oral HIVST (33 clusters). In clusters randomised to HIVST, trained Community HIV care provider (CHiPs) visited households and offered individuals aged ≥ 16 and eligible for an offer of HTS the choice of HIV testing using HIVST or routine door-to-door HTS (finger-prick RDT). To document participants’ experiences with HIVST, Interviews (n = 40), observations (n = 22) and group discussions (n = 91) with household members and CHiPs were conducted. Data were coded using Atlas.ti 7 and analysed thematically.

Results

The usage and storage of HIVST kits was facilitated by familiarity with and trust in CHiPs, the novelty of HIVST, and demonstrations and supervision provided by CHiPs. Door-to-door distribution of HIVST kits was appreciated for being novel, convenient, private, empowering, autonomous and easy-to-use. Literacy and age influenced accurate usage of HIVST kits. The novelty of using oral fluids to test for HIV raised questions, some anxiety and doubts about the accuracy of HIVST. Although HIVST protected participants from experiencing clinic-based stigma, it did not address self-stigma. Within households, HIVST usually strengthened relationships but, amongst couples, there were a few reports of social harms.

Conclusion

Door-to-door distribution of HIVST as a choice for how to HIV test is appreciated at community level and provides an important testing option in the sub-Saharan context. However, it should be accompanied by counselling to manage social harms and by supporting those testing HIV-positive to link to care.
Neurophysiological signatures of hand motor response to dual-transcranial direct current stimulation in subacute stroke: a TMS and MEG study
Authors: Kuo I-Ju , Tang Chih-Wei , Tsai Yun-An , Tang Shuen-Chang , Lin Chun-Jen , Hsu Shih-Pin , Liang Wei-Kuang , Juan Chi-Hung , Zich Catharina , Stagg Charlotte J. , Lee I-Hui
Published: June 2020

Background

Dual transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the bilateral primary motor cortices (M1s) has potential benefits in chronic stroke, but its effects in subacute stroke, when behavioural effects might be expected to be greater, have been relatively unexplored. Here, we examined the neurophysiological effects and the factors influencing responsiveness of dual-tDCS in subacute stroke survivors.

Methods

We conducted a randomized sham-controlled crossover study in 18 survivors with first-ever, unilateral subcortical ischaemic stroke 2–4 weeks after stroke onset and 14 matched healthy controls. Participants had real dual-tDCS (with an ipsilesional [right for controls] M1 anode and a contralesional M1 [left for controls] cathode; 2 mA for 20mins) and sham dual-tDCS on separate days, with concurrent paretic [left for controls] hand exercise. Using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and magnetoencephalography (MEG), we recorded motor evoked potentials (MEPs), the ipsilateral silent period (iSP), short-interval intracortical inhibition, and finger movement-related cortical oscillations before and immediately after tDCS.

Results

Stroke survivors had decreased excitability in ipsilesional M1 with a relatively excessive transcallosal inhibition from the contralesional to ipsilesional hemisphere at baseline compared with controls, as quantified by decreased MEPs and increased iSP duration. Dual-tDCS led to increased MEPs and decreased iSP duration in ipsilesional M1. The magnitude of the tDCS-induced MEP increase in stroke survivors was predicted by baseline contralesional-to-ipsilesional transcallosal inhibition (iSP) ratio. Baseline post-movement synchronization in α-band activity in ipsilesional M1 was decreased after stroke compared with controls, and its tDCS-induced increase correlated with upper limb score in stroke survivors. No significant adverse effects were observed during or after dual-tDCS.

Conclusions

Task-concurrent dual-tDCS in subacute stroke can safely and effectively modulate bilateral M1 excitability and inter-hemispheric imbalance and also movement-related α-activity.
Free superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap with a single-pedicle bilobed design for pediatric multi-digit defect reconstruction
Authors: Li Zhangcan , Zheng Dawei , Zheng Jian , Qi Weiya , Qi Qiang , Liu Yunyun
Published: June 2020

Objectives

This paper describes imaging and anatomical features, in order to assess the feasibility of superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap with a single-pedicle bilobed design for multi-digit skin and soft tissue reconstruction in pediatric patients.

Methods

A total of 7 pediatric patients who were being treated with free single-pedicle bilobed SCIP flap reconstruction for multi-digit defects were included in this study. The details of the clinical features were collected, and the following were successively analyzed: the preoperative computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and color Doppler sonography (CDS) examinations for flap design, the intraoperative anatomy for perforator vessel, defect reconstruction and interphalangeal range of motion (ROM) and tactile sense, pain sense, and two-point discrimination recovery results.

Results

CTA and CDS performed preoperatively could accurately and rapidly identify the position, location and course of the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator. All wounds healed by the first follow-up and no complications occurred at the follow-up visit. All flaps survived, the patients achieved proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) ranges of motions (ROM) from 80 to 100° and distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) ROM from 65 to 80°. The tactile sense and pain sense recovered, and average of the two-point discrimination scores was 9.3 mm (range 7–12 mm). The donor area was primarily sutured with a tidy scar in the underwear region.

Conclusion

CTA and CDS performed preoperatively are accurate and intuitive methods for assessing the location and course of SCIP. The SCIP flap is suitable for pediatric patients due to its small vessel caliber, specific functional and esthetic benefits. It can be designed in a lobulated fashion in order to repair two or more wounds during one surgery. We suggest that the free single-pedicle bilobed SCIP flap should be considered a good option choice for multi-digit defect reconstruction in pediatric patients in the clinic.
Targeted next-generation sequencing identifies the disruption of the SHANK3 and RYR2 genes in a patient carrying a de novo t(1;22)(q43;q13.3) associated with signs of Phelan-McDermid syndrome
Authors: Bonaglia Maria Clara , Bertuzzo Sara , Ciaschini Anna Maria , Discepoli Giancarlo , Castiglia Lucia , Romaniello Romina , Zuffardi Orsetta , Fichera Marco
Published: June 2020

Background

It has been known for more than 30 years that balanced translocations, especially if de novo, can associate with congenital malformations and / or neurodevelopmental disorders, following the disruption of a disease gene or its cis-regulatory elements at one or both breakpoints.

Case presentation

We describe a 10-year-old girl with a non-specific neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by moderate intellectual disability (ID), gross motor clumsiness, social and communication deficits. She carries a de novo reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 1q43 and 22q13.3, the latter suggesting the involvement of SHANK3. Indeed, its haploinsufficiency associates with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome, whose main symptoms are characterized by global developmental delay and absent or severely delayed expressive speech. A deep molecular approach, including next-generation sequencing of SHANK3 locus, allowed demonstrating the breakage of RYR2 and SHANK3 on the derivative chromosomes 1 and 22 respectively, and the formation of two fusion genes SHANK3-RYR2 and RYR2-SHANK3 with concomitant cryptic deletion of 3.6 and 4.1 kilobases at translocation junction of both derivatives chromosomes 22 and 1, respectively.

Conclusions

Although the interruption of SHANK3 accounts for the patient’s psychomotor retardation and autism-like behavior, we do not exclude that the interruption of RYR2 may also have a role on her disorder, or result in further pathogenicity in the future. Indeed, RYR2 that has a well-established role in the etiology of two autosomal dominant adulthood cardiac disorders (#600996 and #604772) is also expressed in the brain (cerebellum, hippocampus, and cerebral cortex) and about half of RYR2 mutation carriers present late onset primary generalized epilepsy without cardiac arrhythmogenic disorders. Moreover, RYR2 variants have also been sporadically reported in individuals with early onset schizophrenia or ID, and its constraint values suggest intolerance to loss-of-function. This study not only confirms the usefulness of the molecular mapping of de novo balanced rearrangements in symptomatic individuals, but also underscores the need for long-term clinical evaluation of the patients, for better evaluating the pathogenicity of the chromosomal breakpoints.
Anti-tumor activities of probiotics in cervical cancer
Authors: Jahanshahi Moghaddaseh , Maleki Dana Parisa , Badehnoosh Bita , Asemi Zatollah , Hallajzadeh Jamal , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Yousefi Bahman , Moazzami Bahram , Chaichian Shahla
Published: June 2020

Cervical cancer is considered as an important malignancy among women worldwide. Currently-used treatments of cervical cancer are reported to be cytotoxic for patients. Moreover, these therapies have shown some side effects which can negatively affect the lives of women suffering from this cancer. Therefore, there is need for anti-tumor agents that are less toxic than common therapeutic drugs. Besides, applying agents for preventing or reducing the side effects of cervical cancer therapies can be effective in improving the life quality of cervical cancer patients. Studies have shown that probiotics have several effects on biological processes. One of the most prominent aspects in which probiotics play a role is in the field of cancer. There are multiple studies which have focused on the functions of probiotics in diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of cancer. Besides their direct anti-tumor activities, probiotics can be used as an additional agent for enhancing or modulating other diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Herein, the effects of probiotics on cervical cancer cells are discussed, which may be useful in the prevention and treatment of this cancer. We review the studies concerned with the roles of probiotics in modulating and reducing the gastrointestinal adverse effects caused by cervical cancer therapies. Furthermore, we cover the investigations focusing on the combination of probiotics with other drugs for diagnosis or treatment of cervical cancer.
The performance of acute versus antecedent patient characteristics for 1-year mortality prediction during intensive care unit admission: a national cohort study
Authors: Kerckhoffs Monika C. , Brinkman Sylvia , de Keizer Nicolet , Soliman Ivo W. , de Lange Dylan W. , van Delden Johannes J. M. , van Dijk Diederik
Published: June 2020

Background

Multiple factors contribute to mortality after ICU, but it is unclear how the predictive value of these factors changes during ICU admission. We aimed to compare the changing performance over time of the acute illness component, antecedent patient characteristics, and ICU length of stay (LOS) in predicting 1-year mortality.

Methods

In this retrospective observational cohort study, the discriminative value of four generalized mixed-effects models was compared for 1-year and hospital mortality. Among patients with increasing ICU LOS, the models included (a) acute illness factors and antecedent patient characteristics combined, (b) acute component only, (c) antecedent patient characteristics only, and (d) ICU LOS. For each analysis, discrimination was measured by area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), calculated using the bootstrap method. Statistical significance between the models was assessed using the DeLong method (p value < 0.05).

Results

In 400,248 ICU patients observed, hospital mortality was 11.8% and 1-year mortality 21.8%. At ICU admission, the combined model predicted 1-year mortality with an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI 0.84–0.84). When analyzed separately, the acute component progressively lost predictive power. From an ICU admission of at least 3 days, antecedent characteristics significantly exceeded the predictive value of the acute component for 1-year mortality, AUC 0.68 (95% CI 0.68–0.69) versus 0.67 (95% CI 0.67–0.68) (p value < 0.001). For hospital mortality, antecedent characteristics outperformed the acute component from a LOS of at least 7 days, comprising 7.8% of patients and accounting for 52.4% of all bed days. ICU LOS predicted 1-year mortality with an AUC of 0.52 (95% CI 0.51–0.53) and hospital mortality with an AUC of 0.54 (95% CI 0.53–0.55) for patients with a LOS of at least 7 days.

Conclusions

Comparing the predictive value of factors influencing 1-year mortality for patients with increasing ICU LOS, antecedent patient characteristics are more predictive than the acute component for patients with an ICU LOS of at least 3 days. For hospital mortality, antecedent patient characteristics outperform the acute component for patients with an ICU LOS of at least 7 days. After the first week of ICU admission, LOS itself is not predictive of hospital nor 1-year mortality.
Exploring pharmacological approaches for managing cytokine storm associated with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Convertino Irma , Tuccori Marco , Ferraro Sara , Valdiserra Giulia , Cappello Emiliano , Focosi Daniele , Blandizzi Corrado
Published: June 2020

Sars-CoV-2 complications include pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which require intensive care unit admission. These conditions have rapidly overwhelmed healthcare systems, with detrimental effects on the quality of care and increased mortality. Social isolation strategies have been implemented worldwide with the aim of reducing hospital pressure. Among therapeutic strategies, the use of immunomodulating drugs, to improve prognosis, seems promising. Particularly, since pneumonia and ARDS are associated with a cytokine storm, drugs belonging to therapeutic classes as anti-IL-6, anti-TNF, and JAK inhibitors are currently studied. In this article, we discuss the potential advantages of the most promising pharmacological approaches.
Enhanced care planning and clinical-community linkages versus usual care to address basic needs of patients with multiple chronic conditions: a clinician-level randomized controlled trial
Authors: Krist Alex H. , O’Loughlin Kristen , Woolf Steven H. , Sabo Roy T. , Hinesley Jennifer , Kuzel Anton J. , Rybarczyk Bruce D. , Kashiri Paulette Lail , Brooks E. Marshall , Glasgow Russel E. , Huebschmann Amy G. , Liaw Winston R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Many patients with poorly controlled multiple chronic conditions (MCC) also have unhealthy behaviors, mental health challenges, and unmet social needs. Medical management of MCC may have limited benefit if patients are struggling to address their basic life needs. Health systems and communities increasingly recognize the need to address these issues and are experimenting with and investing in new models for connecting patients with needed services. Yet primary care clinicians, whose regular contact with patients makes them more familiar with patients’ needs, are often not included in these systems.

Methods

We are starting a clinician-level cluster-randomized controlled trial to evaluate how primary care clinicians can participate in these community and hospital solutions and whether doing so is effective in controlling MCC. Sixty clinicians in the Virginia Ambulatory Care Outcomes Research Network will be matched by age and sex and randomized to usual care (control condition) or enhanced care planning with clinical-community linkage support (intervention). From the electronic health record we will identify all patients with MCC, including cardiovascular disease or risks, diabetes, obesity, or depression. A baseline assessment will be mailed to up to 50 randomly selected patients for each clinician (3000 total). Ten respondents per clinician (600 patients total) with uncontrolled MCC will be randomly selected for study inclusion, with oversampling of minorities. The intervention includes two components. First, we will use an enhanced care planning tool, My Own Health Report (MOHR), to screen patients for health behavior, mental health, and social needs. Patients will be supported by a patient navigator, who will help patients prioritize needs, create care plans, and write a personal narrative to guide the care team. Patients will update care plans every 1 to 2 weeks. Second, we will create community-clinical linkage to help address patients’ needs. The linkage will include community resource registries, personnel to span settings (patient navigators and a community health worker), and care team coordination across team members through MOHR.

Discussion

This study will help inform efforts by primary care clinicians to help address unhealthy behaviors, mental health needs, and social risks as a strategy to better control MCC.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03885401. Registered on 19 September 2019.
Error bounds for mixed set-valued vector inverse quasi-variational inequalities
Authors: Chang Shih-sen , Salahuddin  , Wang L. , Wang G. , Ma Z. L.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this paper is to introduce and study the mixed set-valued vector inverse quasi-variational inequality problems (MSVIQVIPs) and to obtain error bounds for this kind of MSVIQVIP in terms of the residual gap function, the regularized gap function, and the D-gap function. These bounds provide effective estimated distances between an arbitrary feasible point and the solution set of mixed set-valued vector inverse quasi-variational inequality problem. The results presented in the paper improve and generalize some recent results.
Two-level fuzzy-neural load distribution strategy in cloud-based web system
Authors: Zatwarnicki Krzysztof
Published: June 2020

Cloud computing Web systems are today the most important part of the Web. Many companies transfer their services to the cloud in order to avoid infrastructure aging and thus preventing less efficient computing. Distribution of the load is a crucial problem in cloud computing systems. Due to the specifics of network traffic, providing an acceptable time of access to the Web content is not trivial. The utilization of the load distribution with adaptive intelligent distribution strategies can deliver the highest quality of service, short service time and reduce the costs. In the article, a new, two-level, intelligent HTTP request distribution strategy is presented. In the process of designing the architecture of the proposed solution, the results of earlier studies and experiments were taken into account. The proposed decision system contains fuzzy-neural models yielding minimal service times in the Web cloud. The article contains a description of the new solution and the test-bed. In the end, the results of the experiments are discussed and conclusions and presented.
Neuroregeneration and plasticity: a review of the physiological mechanisms for achieving functional recovery postinjury
Authors: Nagappan Palaniappan Ganesh , Chen Hong , Wang De-Yun
Published: June 2020

Neuronal networks, especially those in the central nervous system (CNS), evolved to support extensive functional capabilities while ensuring stability. Several physiological “brakes” that maintain the stability of the neuronal networks in a healthy state quickly become a hinderance postinjury. These “brakes” include inhibition from the extracellular environment, intrinsic factors of neurons and the control of neuronal plasticity. There are distinct differences between the neuronal networks in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and the CNS. Underpinning these differences is the trade-off between reduced functional capabilities with increased adaptability through the formation of new connections and new neurons. The PNS has “facilitators” that stimulate neuroregeneration and plasticity, while the CNS has “brakes” that limit them. By studying how these “facilitators” and “brakes” work and identifying the key processes and molecules involved, we can attempt to apply these theories to the neuronal networks of the CNS to increase its adaptability. The difference in adaptability between the CNS and PNS leads to a difference in neuroregenerative properties and plasticity. Plasticity ensures quick functional recovery of abilities in the short and medium term. Neuroregeneration involves synthesizing new neurons and connections, providing extra resources in the long term to replace those damaged by the injury, and achieving a lasting functional recovery. Therefore, by understanding the factors that affect neuroregeneration and plasticity, we can combine their advantages and develop rehabilitation techniques. Rehabilitation training methods, coordinated with pharmacological interventions and/or electrical stimulation, contributes to a precise, holistic treatment plan that achieves functional recovery from nervous system injuries. Furthermore, these techniques are not limited to limb movement, as other functions lost as a result of brain injury, such as speech, can also be recovered with an appropriate training program.
Hyperlactatemia of dialysis-dependent patients after cardiac surgery impacts on in-hospital mortality: a two-center retrospective study
Authors: Ezaka Mariko , Tsukamoto Junko , Matsuo Koichi , Kin Nobuhide , Yamaoka Kazue
Published: June 2020

Background

Lactate is a well-known marker to estimate prognosis after cardiac surgery and critically ill patients. The liver and kidney have a major role in lactate metabolism; however, there was less characterized about the change of lactate and threshold to predict in-hospital mortality in dialysis-dependent patients undertaking cardiac surgery. We conducted this retrospective observational study to characterize when and how lactate values after cardiac surgery affected in-hospital mortality.

Methods

This two-center retrospective study included dialysis-dependent patients who underwent cardiac surgery with a cardiopulmonary bypass from January 2014 to December 2018. Lactate values were collected at three points: at ICU admission (T1), the maximum level of lactate within 24 h postoperatively (T2), and 24 h after ICU admission (T3). We determined hyperlactatemia as more than 2 mmol/L following previous studies.

Results

We enrolled 122 dialysis-dependent patients. The mean age was 73 ± 8 years and hyperlactatemia was observed in 100 patients (81.9%). In-hospital mortality was 11.4%. Univariate analysis and area under curve in ROC suggested that T2 lactate was the most significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (AUC = 0.845). Multivariate logistic analysis showed a significant association between in-hospital mortality when patients showed early peak lactate levels of > 4.5 mmol/L after ICU admission (adjusted OR 8.35; 95% CI: 1.44–57.13).

Conclusions

In dialysis-dependent patients after cardiac surgery, the early-onset of a maximum arterial lactate concentration of > 4.5 mmol/L was significantly associated with in-hospital mortality.
Breast lesions in women under 25 years: radiologic-pathologic correlation
Authors: Alawi Abdelhaafez , Hasan Malak , Harraz Mohamed M. , Kamr Wael Hamza , Alsolami Shadiah , Mowalwei Hamid , Salem Adulaziz , Qronfla Huda
Published: June 2020

Background

The majority of breast lesions in women under 25 years are being benign. Imaging is important for diagnosis and selecting patients for further procedures. Although malignancy is rare in this group of patients, suspected lesions must be biopsied. Imaging is very important in the selection of patients for radiological intervention. Understanding of the clinical, pathologic, and imaging features allows the radiologist to guide proper management of these patients. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of different breast lesions in symptomatic women under 25 years and the value of radiological imaging in the diagnosis.

Results

This was a retrospective study; a total number of 250 cases with breast lumps under 25 years of age were registered in the PACKS of our institution in the period from January 01, 2017 to December 31, 2018. Two hundred three cases coped with our inclusion criteria that include available histopathological results either by biopsy or after surgery based on their referring physicians decision. Our exclusion criteria were those cases (47) with definite BIRADS 2 lesions with no available pathology reports. Ultrasonography was done to all patients (203 cases) and MRI was performed to 26 cases. All cases were histologically verified; their findings were reviewed and compared to radiological findings.

A total of 203 symptomatic breast lesions were received at the radiological department in women under 25 years; there were 115 (56.7%) benign, 85 (41.9%) cystic, and 3 (1.5%) malignant lumps. The commonest benign lesion was fibroadenoma (104 cases, 51.2%) and all the malignant lesions were invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) (3 cases, 1.47%). Thepvalue is > 0.05, so there were no differences between examination using the ultrasonography and the MRI imaging compared to histopathological results.

Conclusions

Most breast lesions in young women are benign. Ultrasonography is an essential first imaging modality in the diagnosis of women under 25 years with breast lesions.
Categorizing and correlating diffractivity attributes with seismic-reflection attributes using autoencoder networks
Authors: Dell Sergius , Walda Jan , Hoelker Andreas , Gajewski Dirk
Published: June 2020

Seismic attributes play a crucial role in fault interpretation and mapping fracture density. Conventionally, seismic attributes derived from migrated reflections are used for this purpose. The attributes derived from the other counterparts of the recorded wavefield are often ignored and excluded from the categorization. We have performed categorization of the attributes derived from the diffracted part of the wavefield and combine them into a new seismic attribute class, which we call diffractivity attributes. The extraction of diffractivity attributes is based on the 3D Kirchhoff time migration operator that includes a dynamic muting. We distinguish three major classes in the diffractivity attributes, which describe geometric and amplitude properties of the seismic diffractions. We assign point and edge diffraction focusing as well as the azimuth to the geometric class. The amplitudes of the isolated seismic diffractions are used to extract the instantaneous attributes based on the complex-trace approach. The instantaneous amplitudes, phase, frequency, and sweetness build up the instantaneous attribute class. We perform a spectral decomposition of the isolated diffractions into the isofrequencies using the wavelet approach. The isofrequencies compose the spectral-decomposition class. We also link the new diffractivity class to the conventional seismic reflection attributes. We use a deep learning approach based on convolutional neural networks for classifying and correlating the diffractivity attributes.
Sedimentary sequence and architecture analysis by integrating multi-discipline data — An example of a sandy conglomerate reservoir in Qie12 block, Qaidam Basin, NW China
Authors: Qingshun Gong , Zhanguo Liu , Chao Zhu , Guohui Ni , Guangyong Song , Yanxiong Wu
Published: June 2020

Understanding the sedimentary sequence and architecture is important for planning the development strategy. We illustrate a case study of analyzing the sequence and architecture of a sandy conglomerate reservoir by integrating geology, petrophysics, seismic, and development data. The analysis indicates that the depostional environment of the target lower part of the Ganchaigou Formation is an alluvial fan. We defined eight lithofacies according to the core analysis and five sedimentary microfacies by integrating the core and petrophysical data. We next propose four sedimentary architectural models by integrating the lithofacies result, microfacies analysis, and high frequency sequence models. The four architecture models include the extensively connecting body sandwiched with intermittent channels, the composite channel formed by the overlapping and separation of stable channels, the lateral alternated braided channel and sheet flow sediment, and the runoff channel inlaid in flood plain mudstone. We finally build an architecture model for the alluvial fan. The model of the alluvial fan overall shows an upward-fining grain-size features and this feature indicates that the alluvial fan belongs to a retrograding sequence. The built model consists of six alluvial fan bodies that migrates from north.
Identifying the lithology of volcanic rocks by using the time-frequency features of array acoustic logging data
Authors: Wang Wenhua , Wang Pujun , Wang Zhuwen , Xiang Min , Liu Jinghua
Published: June 2020

The traditional acoustic logging signal processing method is computing the slowness of each component wave by time-domain or frequency-domain methods. But both of the two methods are limited. To combine the signals’ times, frequencies, or amplitudes, we have analyzed the array acoustic logging signals by the fractional Fourier transform and the Choi-Williams distribution. First, we apply the fractional Fourier transform on an array acoustic logging waveform with proper [Formula: see text], then the Choi-Williams distribution analysis method is used to process the signal in the fractional Fourier domain, and finally the result will show in the fractional Fourier time-frequency domain. The results show the following. The array acoustic logging signal is received earlier in the mudstone and diabase formation than in the tuff and breccia formations. The basic frequencies of the compressional wave (P-wave) are not very different, but the basic frequency of the shear wave (S-wave) is highest in the tuff formation and is lowest in the diabase formation. The relative energies of each component wave in the diabase, mudstone, tuff, and breccia formation can be summarized as: for the P-wave, diabase > mudstone ≈ tuff ≈ breccia; for the S-wave, diabase ≈ mudstone > breccia > tuff; and for the Stoneley wave, diabase > mudstone > tuff > breccia. The signal processing method combining the fractional Fourier transform and the Choi-Williams distribution can comprehensively research the time, frequency, and amplitude, thereby improving the segmentation of the time and frequency domains and providing a new method for interpretation of array acoustic logging.
Conglomerate petrology characterization using high-definition borehole electrical images in the Upper Urho Formation at well JL42, Zhongguai Uplift, Junggar Basin, China
Authors: Rui Yuan , Bo Yang , Chunfu Pan , Xuguang Guo , Liliang Huang , Wenjun He , Youlun Feng , Kang Zhao
Published: June 2020

Cores drilled from wells are significant resources for understanding the geologic characteristics of petroleum reservoirs. However, due to the high cost and long rig time involved, it is impossible to obtain cores from the entire sedimentary formation in a drilling well. Furthermore, core breakage limits the amount of information that can be obtained in the vertical deposition environment of deep-buried formations. Therefore, we have used ultrahigh-resolution and high-quality borehole electrical images obtained by a borehole electrical imaging tool, High-Definition Formation MicroImager (FMI-HD), to supplement “core” information and characterize the petrologic features, such as grain size and sedimentary structure, of conglomeratic formations in the Permian Upper Urho Formation at well JL42, Zhongguai Uplift, Junggar Basin, China. We have observed conglomeratic cores at 95.92 m in well JL42 and recorded various petrologic features of the core cylinders. In the cored interval, the FMI-HD images were compared with core photos in detail; grain size results from the FMI-HD images and cores were very similar. However, there were major differences in the structural results due to core interruption. In addition, the high-resolution depositional facies of the Upper Urho Formation at well JL42 were dissected in terms of the distributive fluvial system, not the fan-delta system, using vertical grain size features derived from FMI-HD images. Boulders, cobbles, coarse pebbles, and fine pebbles were developed in thick gravelly channels in the lower proximal facies, whereas fine pebbles and granules were developed in thin channels in the upper medial facies. Therefore, FMI-HD images can be efficiently used to supplement cores and sedimentary information, which provides important insights on the paleogeology of conglomeratic formations and in turn on the exploration potential of petroleum systems.
Application of time-frequency entropy based on high-order synchrosqueezing transform in reservoir prediction
Authors: Tian Renfei , Lei Xue , Hu Jiangtao
Published: June 2020

Reservoir prediction is an essential component of seismic exploration. We have introduced a new technique for reservoir prediction based on time-frequency entropy that can detect seismic attenuation caused by reservoir fluid, such as gas and oil. The use of conventional methods of time-frequency analysis leads to low resolution due to inadequate calculation accuracy. To address this issue, we have adopted a novel method of calculating time-frequency entropy that computes the time-frequency distribution using a high-order synchrosqueezing transform to obtain time-frequency entropy with a higher resolution and better energy concentration. Numerical tests on synthetic signals show that the proposed method provides high accuracy and can detect ultrasmall variations (e.g., 1%) in amplitude, phase, or frequency. The model test shows that frequency entropy based on our proposed method can effectively distinguish an oil-bearing reservoir and is also robust to noise. Application on field data further demonstrates that it provides time-frequency entropy with high resolution and can identify weak seismic signal variations caused by dry, water-saturated, and oil-saturated sedimentary layers. Practical well drilling verifies these prediction results. The proposed method can be broadly applied in seismic reservoir prediction.
Assessing the relationship between psychosocial stressors and psychiatric resilience among Chilean disaster survivors
Authors: Fernandez Cristina A. , Choi Karmel W. , Marshall Brandon D. L. , Vicente Benjamin , Saldivia Sandra , Kohn Robert , Koenen Karestan C. , Arheart Kristopher L. , Buka Stephen L.
Published: June 2020

Background

According to the stress inoculation hypothesis, successfully navigating life stressors may improve one's ability to cope with subsequent stressors, thereby increasing psychiatric resilience.

Aims

Among individuals with no baseline history of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or major depressive disorder (MDD), to determine whether a history of a stressful life event protected participants against the development of PTSD and/or MDD after a natural disaster.

Method

Analyses utilised data from a multiwave, prospective cohort study of adult Chilean primary care attendees (years 2003–2011; n = 1160). At baseline, participants completed the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI), a comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic instrument, and the List of Threatening Experiences, a 12-item questionnaire that measures major stressful life events. During the study (2010), the sixth most powerful earthquake on record struck Chile. One year later (2011), the CIDI was re-administered to assess post-disaster PTSD and/or MDD.

Results

Marginal structural logistic regressions indicated that for every one-unit increase in the number of pre-disaster stressors, the odds of developing post-disaster PTSD or MDD increased (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.08–1.37, and OR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.06–1.27 respectively). When categorising pre-disaster stressors, individuals with four or more stressors (compared with no stressors) had higher odds of developing post-disaster PTSD (OR = 2.77, 95% CI 1.52–5.04), and a dose–response relationship between pre-disaster stressors and post-disaster MDD was found.

Conclusions

In contrast to the stress inoculation hypothesis, results indicated that experiencing multiple stressors increased the vulnerability to developing PTSD and/or MDD after a natural disaster. Increased knowledge regarding the individual variations of these disorders is essential to inform targeted mental health interventions after a natural disaster, especially in under-studied populations.