bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Simulation Optimization Using Neutrosophic Cross-Efficiency DEA and Box–Behnken Experimental Design (A Case Study on the Automotive Paint Shop)
Authors: Monazzam Nafiseh , Alinezhad Alireza , Malek Hossein
Published: July 2021

Paint shops are considered as bottlenecks in many automobile companies. As all processes in the paint shop are involved with chemical materials, time is really crucial in the production process, so offering instant remedial actions is crucial. This paper optimizes an online simulation (OS) model, using Discrete-Event Simulation (DES), applied to a paint shop in the automotive industry. To this aim, an integrated Box–Behnken design (BBD) and cross-efficiency data envelopment analysis (DEA) under a neutrosophic environment have been implemented. The former has generated cost-effective scenarios with the minimum number of experimental design, and the latter has provided the efficiency of each scenario enabling to obtain a unique weight for each decision-making unit (DMU) using aggressive and benevolent models as well as a general representation of the human perception toward risks arising from uncertain information, leading to determine the optimal scenario. The proposed approach has been implemented in an automotive industrial plant in Iran, and the results have shown that this approach, compared with previous studies, is a practical way for online monitoring and optimizing the paint shop.
A Hybrid Methodology for Prioritizing of Store Plan Alternatives Produced with Rule-Based Design
Authors: Ozdemir Yavuz , Ozdemir Sahika , Nalbant Kemal Gokhan
Published: July 2021

With the widespread use of computers, in the design world, rule-based design methods, which can work in harmony with computer logic and can be easily adapted to the computer environment, have come to the fore. It is possible to analyze the logic of a design made with the rule-based design method. It is even possible to change the design which is placed on the rule base by removing the rules, in the computer environment, or creating new designs with the same design logic. In this paper, a new hybrid model is proposed based on Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (IT2 FANP) and Interval Type-2 Fuzzy TOPSIS (IT2 Fuzzy TOPSIS) for the evaluation of store plan alternatives produced with rule-based design method. The IT2 FANP method is used to determine the weight of criteria determined by experts in the selection of store plan alternatives. Then, the IT2 Fuzzy TOPSIS method is used to obtain the ranking of alternatives with Interval Type-2 trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The originality of the paper comes from the first-time usage of a hybrid approach based on IT2 FANP and IT2 Fuzzy TOPSIS methodology in the prioritizing of store plan alternatives produced with rule-based design method.
Frame multiresolution analysis of continuous piecewise linear functions
Authors: Murugan S. Pitchai , Youvaraj G. P.
Published: July 2021

The Franklin wavelet is constructed using the multiresolution analysis (MRA) generated from a scaling function [Formula: see text] that is continuous on [Formula: see text], linear on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for every [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], it is shown that if a function [Formula: see text] is continuous on [Formula: see text], linear on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], for [Formula: see text], and generates MRA with dilation factor [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text]. Conversely, for [Formula: see text], it is shown that there exists a [Formula: see text], as satisfying the above conditions, that generates MRA with dilation factor [Formula: see text]. The frame MRA (FMRA) is useful in signal processing, since the perfect reconstruction filter banks associated with FMRA can be narrow-band. So it is natural to ask, whether the above results can be extended for the case of FMRA. In this paper, for [Formula: see text], we prove that if [Formula: see text] generates FMRA with dilation factor [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text], we prove similar results when [Formula: see text]. In addition, for [Formula: see text] we prove that there exists a function [Formula: see text] as satisfying the above conditions, that generates FMRA. Also, we construct tight wavelet frame and wavelet frame for such scaling functions.
A complete restricted Boltzmann machine on an adiabatic quantum computer
Authors: Rocutto Lorenzo , Prati Enrico
Published: July 2021

Boltzmann Machines constitute a paramount class of neural networks for unsupervised learning and recommendation systems. Their bipartite version, called Restricted Boltzmann Machine (RBM), is the most developed because of its satisfactory trade-off between computability on classical computers and computational power. Though the diffusion of RBMs is quite limited as their training remains hard. Recently, a renewed interest has emerged as Adiabatic Quantum Computers (AQCs), which suggest a potential increase of the training speed with respect to conventional hardware. Due to the limited number of connections among the qubits forming the graph of existing hardware, associating one qubit per node of the neural network implies an incomplete graph. Thanks to embedding techniques, we developed a complete graph connecting nodes constituted by virtual qubits. The complete graph outperforms previous implementations based on incomplete graphs. Despite the fact that the learning rate per epoch is still slower with respect to a classical machine, the advantage is expected by the increase of number of nodes which impacts on the classical computational time but not on the quantum hardware based computation.
Dynamics of a stochastic Holling II predator-prey model with Lévy jumps and habitat complexity
Authors: Li Guangjie , Yang Qigui
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates a stochastic Holling II predator-prey model with Lévy jumps and habit complexity. It is first proved that the established model admits a unique global positive solution by employing the Lyapunov technique, and the stochastic ultimate boundedness of this positive solution is also obtained. Sufficient conditions are established for the extinction and persistence of this solution. Moreover, some numerical simulations are carried out to support the obtained results.
Ferrimagnetic Half-Metallicity of the New Quaternary Heusler Alloy CoCrScIn: FP-LAPW Method
Authors: Hamada Halima , Boudia Keltouma , Khelfaoui Friha , Amara Kadda , Nouri Toufik , Sadouki Ouafaa
Published: July 2021

The structural, electronic, elastic and magnetic properties of CoCrScIn were investigated using first principle calculations with applying the full-potential linearized augmented plane waves (FP-LAPW) method, based totally on the density functional theory (DFT). After evaluating the results, the calculated structural parameters reveal that CoCrScIn compound is stable in its ferrimagnetic configuration of the type-III structure. The mechanical properties show its brittle and stiffer behavior. The formation energy value showed that CoCrScIn can be experimentally synthesized. Additionally, the obtained band structures and density of states (DOS) reflect the half-metallic behavior of CoCrScIn, with an indirect bandgap of 0.43[Formula: see text]eV. The total magnetic moment of 3[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and half-metallic ferrimagnetic state are maintained in the range 5.73–6,79 Å. The magnetic moment especially issues from the Cr-[Formula: see text] and Co-[Formula: see text] spin-polarizations. Furthermore, the calculations of Curie temperature reveal that CoCrScIn has high magnetic transition temperature of 836.7[Formula: see text]K.
Investigation and Analysis of the Logistics Personnel’s Working Condition in the Post-COVID-19 Era — An Example of a Top Three Hospital in Shanghai
Authors: Qian Mingping , Liu Rong , Hu Longjun , Gao Wenxue , Cai Guojun , Yang Xinyi , Song Huahua , Zhang Ji
Published: July 2021

The aim of this work is to explore the working conditions of logistics personnel in hospital and provide a new approach for improving the service quality of them in the post-COVID-19 era. Eighty-four logistics personnel in an upper first-class hospital were included in the study, and their working conditions were investigated and analyzed via self-designed questionnaire. 73.8% of all respondents think their work is significantly important to the brand building of the hospital, and 67.9% of them think they are closely related to a harmonious doctor–patient relationship. The compliant rate is higher in security personnel when compared with other personnel and the difference was statistically significant ([Formula: see text]). 94% of the logistics personnel indicate a higher intensity in their work, 39.3% of them constantly face the working pressure and 57.1% come from the risk of infection which accounts for the largest. The largest demand comes for the protective equipment, which is from 69 workers. It would be better for us to pay attention to the hospital culture training and strengthen the sense of identity among logistics personnel of the hospital continuously. Meanwhile we need to enrich the connotation of professional style construction in hospital and promote the efficiency of logistics service. Targeted training is necessary to improve the service capabilities of the security personnel since they receive more complaints. Diversified and personalized support to the logistics personnel based on the grasp of their special demand is also important.
Decentralized Adaptive Control for Quasi-Consensus in Heterogeneous Nonlinear Multiagent Systems
Authors: An Jiaju , Yang Wei , Xu Xiaohui , Chen Tianxiang , Du Bin , Tang Yi , Xu Quan
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes some novel decentralized adaptive control protocols to settle the quasi-consensus problem of multiagent systems with heterogeneous nonlinear dynamics. Based on local communication with the leader and between the followers, some innovative control protocols are put forward to adapt the control gains and coupling weights simultaneously and to steer the consensus errors to some bounded areas. In particular, two new inequalities are proposed to establish the Lyapunov-based adaptive controller design approach for quasi-consensus. Some quasi-consensus criteria are derived by utilizing the designed controllers, in which the error bound can be modulated on the basis of the adaptive controller parameters. Numerical tests are conducted to show the feasibility of the theoretical derivation. Our findings highlight quasi-consensus in heterogeneous multiagent systems without adding some additional complex nonlinear control terms to cancel the dynamical differences between agents.
Air Pollution and the Public Perception Level and Self-Protection Demand in Three Cities of China: Fractional Grey Modelling Analysis
Authors: Tu Leping , Zhao Yonggang
Published: July 2021

To improve air pollution and human health, a novel grey prediction model with fractional-order accumulation and new information priority accumulation is proposed to analyze and predict the public perception level, self-protection demands, and environmental protection behavior of air pollution. The study in three cities of China shows that the public’ perception level will rise rapidly, and the speed will continue to accelerate with the further deterioration of air quality. Among them, Beijing’s public perception is the most sensitive and strong. The protection needs of the Tianjin public are the most sensitive. The Shijiazhuang public shows a strong desire for environmental protection. This study will help in understanding the relationship between the public and air quality.
Isotretinoin in Acne Vulgaris Complicated by Underlying Major Depression: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: DeLuca Matthew , Nuñez Maxsaya Baez , Rodriguez Ezequiel , Chirimunj Krishan
Published: July 2021

We relay the case of a teenage female with severe facial acne vulgaris and a past psychiatric history of major depressive disorder who presented to the emergency department with a primary complaint of ongoing suicidal ideation. Defining features of this case stem from the patient endorsing that her suicidal ideation was a result of her severe acne and the coinciding social perturbation it caused. Additionally, the patient reported that just four months prior to the current presentation, her dermatologist started her on isotretinoin therapy for the management of acne vulgaris. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there have been no reported cases which describe a teenage female presenting with active suicidal ideation secondary to severe acne vulgaris while concurrently undergoing treatment with isotretinoin. Given the controversial but reported association between isotretinoin and increased suicidality, we considered the appropriateness of continuing this medication for our patient. We then conducted a literature search evaluating the evidence concerning this association. In what follows, we present a unique case report and provide a thorough review of the evidence—or lack thereof—surrounding the relationship between isotretinoin and suicidality. Additionally, the authors aim to provide recommendations for the management of future patients who may present under similar circumstances.
Seraph-100 Hemoperfusion in SARS-CoV-2-Infected Patients Early in Critical Illness: A Case Series
Authors: Rifkin Brian S. , Stewart Ian J.
Published: July 2021

There is an urgent need for therapeutic interventions to alter the course of critically ill coronavirus disease 2019 (CO­VID-19) patients. We report our experience with the Seraph-100 Microbind Affinity Blood Filter (Seraph-100) in 4 patients with COVID-19 early in the course of their critical respiratory illnesses. Patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 and were admitted to intensive care with worsening respiratory failure but did not require dialysis or vasopressors. Patients had to have a PaO2 to FiO2 (P/F ratio) <150 to qualify for hemoperfusion therapy. All patients received standard medical therapy including oral vitamins C and D and zinc in addition to intravenous dexamethasone and remdesivir. Patients received a single 5- to 7-h session with Seraph-100 on a conventional dialysis machine (Fresenius 2008T) via a nontunneled central venous dialysis catheter with a goal of processing at least 100 L of blood. Patients received weight-based subcutaneous enoxaparin anticoagulation, as well as systemic intravenous heparin (70 units/kg), just prior to hemofiltration. Treatment with Seraph-100 hemoperfusion was well tolerated, and all patients were able to finish their prescribed therapy. All patients treated with Seraph-100 survived to be discharged from the hospital. Well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine the overall safety and efficacy of the Seraph-100 Microbind Affinity Blood Filter in COVID-19 patients.
EKONOMİK BÜYÜME VE KAMU NİHAİ TÜKETİM HARCAMALARININ YAPISAL KIRILMA VE ARDL EŞBÜTÜNLEŞME YÖNTEMLERİYLE ANALİZİ
Authors: ALBAYRAK Muzaffer
Published: July 2021

Ekonomik büyüme, bir ülkenin refah düzeyini artırmak ve geliştirmek için önemlidir. Devletler, ülkelerinin refahını ve zenginliğini artırmak ve sorunlarını çözmek için ekonomik büyüme ve kalkınmaya önem vermektedir. Makroekonomik göstergelerin ekonomik büyüme üzerindeki etkisi, ülkelerin yapısına, özelliklerine ve yönetim yapılarına göre değişmektedir. Bu çalışma, 1961-2019 yılları arasındaki yıllık veri setini kullanarak ekonomik büyüme ile kamu nihai tüketim harcamaları arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemektedir. Bai-Perron yapısal kırılma analizi sonuçları, incelenen dönemde Türkiye ekonomisinde yapısal değişikliklerin meydana geldiğini göstermektedir. ARDL eşbütünleşme analizi sonuçlarına göre, ekonomik büyüme ile kamu harcamaları arasındaki ilişki uzun dönem ve kısa dönemde negatiftir. Bulgular, ayrıca ekonomik büyümenin yapısal kırılmalardan etkilendiğini göstermektedir. Bu sonuç, Türkiye ekonomisinde yapısal kırılmanın etkilerine karşı önlem alınması gerektiğini göstermektedir.
CAN HIGH DIVIDEND YIELD SUSTAIN FIRM VALUE DURING THE COVID-19 CRASH? EVIDENCE FROM TURKISH FIRMS
Authors: TAN Ömer Faruk , CAVLAK Hakan , CEBECİ Yasin , GÜNEŞ Necati
Published: July 2021

In this study, we want to investigate whether having a high dividend yield has a catalyst effect on stock prices during the COVID-19 turmoil period. 164 manufacturing firms in Borsa Istanbul are classified as firms with high and low dividend yield according to their last five-years’ (2015-2019) averages. The analysis results show that the stock returns of firms with high dividend yield are less impacted in this COVID-19 crash. Likewise, firms with a high frequency of dividend payouts are less affected than those who do not. This study reveals that firms with high dividend yield are regarded as safe havens by investors in this crash caused by COVID-19.
Making a Market: Infrastructure, Integration, and the Rise of Innovation
Authors: Andersson David , Berger Thor , Prawitz Erik
Published: July 2021

We exploit exogenous variation arising from the historical rollout of the Swedish railroad network across municipalities to identify the impacts of improved transport infrastructure on innovative activity. A network connection led to a local surge in patenting due to an increased entry and productivity of inventors. As the railroad network expanded, inventors in connected areas began to develop ideas with applications outside the local economy, which were subsequently sold to firms along the network. Our findings suggest that reductions in communication and transportation costs were an important driver of the historical emergence of a market for ideas.
A Comparison of the Variability and Changes in Global Ocean Heat Content from Multiple Objective Analysis Products During the Argo Period
Authors: Liang Xinfeng , Liu Chao , Ponte Rui M. , Chambers Don P.
Published: July 2021

Ocean heat content (OHC) is key to estimating the energy imbalance of the earth system. Over the past two decades, an increasing number of OHC studies were conducted using oceanic objective analysis (OA) products. Here we perform an intercomparison of OHC from eight OA products with a focus on their robust features and significant differences over the Argo period (2005-2019), when the most reliable global scale oceanic measurements are available. For the global ocean, robust warming in the upper 2000 m is confirmed. The 0-300 m layer shows the highest warming rate but is heavily modulated by interannual variability, particularly the El Niño–Southern Oscillation. The 300-700 m and 700-2000 m layers, on the other hand, show unabated warming. Regionally, the Southern Ocean and mid-latitude North Atlantic show a substantial OHC increase, and the subpolar North Atlantic displays an OHC decrease. A few apparent differences in OHC among the examined OA products were identified. In particular, temporal means of a few OA products that incorporated other ocean measurements besides Argo show a global-scale cooling difference, which is likely related to the baseline climatology fields used to generate those products. Large differences also appear in the interannual variability in the Southern Ocean and in the long-term trends in the subpolar North Atlantic. These differences remind us of the possibility of product-dependent conclusions on OHC variations. Caution is therefore warranted when using merely one OA product to conduct OHC studies, particularly in regions and on timescales that display significant differences.
The Subcultural Imagination: Critically Negotiating the Co-Production of ‘Subcultural Subjects’ through the Lens of C. Wright Mills
Authors: Blackman Shane , Kempson Michelle
Published: July 2021

This article interrogates the following two concepts: the ‘subcultural imagination’ and the ‘subcultural subject’. We explore debates surrounding the ways in which interactions between the researcher and participant produce knowledge, in order to further establish the critical contribution of subculture within sociology. This article draws upon the notion of critique and ideas of C. Wright Mills (1959) in order to demonstrate the potential of new forms of ‘imagination’ within subcultures research. We seek to show through ethnographic examples how researchers and participants can be engaged in co-production of fieldwork, analysis and writing within research at different levels of engagement. The article will cover four areas, all focused on placing ‘imagination’ at the centre of subcultures research: first, it critiques the postmodern post-subcultural position within youth cultural studies; second, it defines the subcultural imagination and third, it explores specific empirical examples of subcultural subjects and, finally, we shall address the potential for micro co-production.
Enhanced recovery after laryngectomy: A feasibility study in 25 patients
Authors: Magos Tiarnan , Massa Gabriella , Burdett Edward , Al Khalfan Abdulla , Thaj Jabin , Al Yaghchi Chadwan , Ali Safina
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To describe the development and implementation of an enhanced recovery programme for patients undergoing total laryngectomy.

Methods

A feasibility study set in a tertiary head and neck unit in London, United Kingdom. The programme was developed based on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Society guidelines for head and neck cancer surgery and local expert group consensus. An ERAS ‘booklet’ was devised which accompanied all laryngectomy patients during their inpatient stay. Contributors included otolaryngologists, anaesthetists, dieticians, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists and nurses. A 12-month pilot study was undertaken. The main outcome measures were feasibility and adherence.

Results

An enhanced recovery programme for 25 people undergoing total laryngectomy was successfully piloted in a tertiary referral head and neck unit. Median length of stay was reduced in the post-ERAS group by 1.5 days. No statistically significant difference in length of stay, time to first gastrografin swallow, rate of fistula nor postoperative normalcy of eating between the pre and post-ERAS patients who underwent laryngectomy was observed. Clavien-Dindo-grouped complication rates were significantly higher in the post-ERAS group.

Conclusion

This enhanced recovery programme for patients undergoing laryngectomy is the first of its kind in the literature. Implementation has been demonstrated feasible. Further longitudinal studies are required to reliably inform us on ERAS programmes’ effects on laryngectomy outcomes.
The role of hydrogen peroxide in hip arthroplasty: A narrative review
Authors: Zhou Andrew Kailin , Girish Milind , Thahir Azeem , An Lim Jiang , Tran Caitlyn , Patel Shaan , Krkovic Matija
Published: July 2021

Hydrogen peroxide has become more commonly used in hip arthroplasties due to high risk of periprosthetic infections. Its purported roles include irrigation, haemostasis, reduction of aseptic loosening and attachment of antibiotics. However, current literature does not provide conclusive evidence on the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide in preventing aseptic loosening, with some controversy around whether it in fact contributes to aseptic loosening. The complications of hydrogen peroxide across medicine are well distinguished; however, the risks within orthopaedic surgery and hip arthroplasties are not well known. Beyond cytotoxicity, the most dangerous reported risk associated with hydrogen peroxide in hip arthroplasties was an oxygen embolism in an unvented femoral canal and acrylic bone cement, consequentially leading to cardiac arrest. However, it may be inappropriate to solely attribute the oxygen embolism to the use of hydrogen peroxide and thus if used appropriately, hydrogen peroxide may have a justifiable role in hip arthroplasty surgery. In this narrative review, we present the current uses of hydrogen peroxide while evaluating its associated risks. We have summarised the key indications and aggregated recommendations to provide guidelines for the use of hydrogen peroxide in hip arthroplasty.
Prioritizing the healthcare access concerns of Canadians with MS
Authors: Pétrin Julie , McColl Mary Ann , Donnelly Catherine , French Simon , Finlayson Marcia
Published: July 2021

Background

Canadians with MS are high users of healthcare services, yet they report multiple unmet needs, high disease burden, and low satisfaction with care. Engaging patients in healthcare planning can lead to improvements in access and care. There is currently limited evidence that has harnessed the perspectives of Canadians with MS.

Objective

To identify and prioritize the healthcare access concerns of Canadians with MS.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey informed by the Concerns Report Methodology was used to address the objective. Participants were recruited through multiple methods. Descriptive statistics were used to identify the main barriers to healthcare providers, and concerns report methods were used to calculate needs indexes to prioritize concerns of participants.

Results

324 Canadians with MS participated in the study between November 18, 2019 and March 27, 2020. The most pressing healthcare access concerns of Canadians with MS were related to availability of healthcare providers with MS knowledge and affordability of services that aim to improve wellness.

Conclusion

These findings provide healthcare planners with prioritized access concerns of Canadians with MS, which can be used to guide strategic planning to improve the quality of life of these individuals.
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PATIENTS’ RECOMMENDATION OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS: AN ANALYSIS OF A POPULAR ONLINE RATING WEBSITE
Authors: Para Ashok , Hanna Gabriel , Luis Justin , Ezzat Bishoy , Batko Brian D. , Edobor-Osula Folorunsho
Published: July 2021

Background:

In the modern digital age, patients are increasingly consulting online physician reviews prior to making healthcare decisions. Physician review websites are being used in many medical fields including orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this study is to investigate trends in online physician reviews and determine which factors are most strongly correlated with the likelihood that an orthopaedic surgeon is to be recommended by patients.

Methods:

Healthgrades.com, the most comprehensive physician rating and comparison database, was queried for “orthopaedic surgery” in the state of New Jersey. Demographic information, fellowship training status, years of experience, malpractice/disciplinary actions, physician ratings and the likelihood to recommend score (LTRS) was collected for all physicians. Quantitative analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, student t-test, and one-way ANOVA. Qualitative analysis of randomly selected positive comments and all negative comments was conducted. Common themes were identified using frequency-based word cloud generator.

Results:

834 board certified orthopaedic surgeons (800 Males, 34 Females), with a mean age of 55.7±12.5 years and an average LTRS of 4.1±0.84 were included for analysis. Compared with non-fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons, fellowship trained surgeons were more likely to be recommend by patients [3.8 vs. 4.3; P< 0.0001]. Physicians with waiting time <10min were more likely to be recommended compared with their counterparts with waiting time >10min (P< 0.0001). No differences were observed in LTRS between male and female orthopaedic surgeons (P= 0.79) or based on malpractice status (P= 0.61). Qualitative analysis of a randomly selected sample of 4,151 out of a total of 12,168 positive comments and 1,113 total negative comments revealed that positive comments centered on surgeon competence and professionalism, while negative comments centered on surgeon personality and waiting time.

Conclusion:

Orthopaedic surgeons have generally favorable ratings and mostly positive comments. Fellowship status and waiting time are important factors that impact LTRS. Patients were more likely to write positive comments about surgeon competence and professionalism, and negative comments pertaining to surgeon personality and waiting time. Knowledge of surgeon specific attributes that are important to patients may help educate orthopaedic surgeons to improve patient care, patient satisfaction and online ratings.

Tables and Figures

[Table: see text][Table: see text][Figure: see text]
Sigma 1 Receptor, Cholesterol and Endoplasmic Reticulum Contact Sites
Authors: Zhemkov Vladimir , Liou Jen , Bezprozvanny Ilya
Published: July 2021

Recent studies indicated potential importance of membrane contact sites (MCS) between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and other cellular organelles. These MCS have unique protein and lipid composition and serve as hubs for inter-organelle communication and signaling. Despite extensive investigation of MCS protein composition and functional roles, little is known about the process of MCS formation. In this perspective, we propose a hypothesis that MCS are formed not as a result of random interactions between membranes of ER and other organelles but on the basis of pre-existing cholesterol-enriched ER microdomains.
History of anemia and long-term mortality due to infection: a cohort study with 12 years follow-up in South Korea
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Song Kyung-Ho , Song In-Ae
Published: July 2021

Background

Anemia, which is a condition with reduced healthy red blood cells, is reported to be closely related to the development of infectious diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between history of anemia and 12-year mortality rate due to infections, and compare it with that among non-anemic individuals.

Methods

Data from the National Health Insurance Service Health Screening Cohort were used in this population-based cohort study. Adults who underwent standardized medical examination between and 2002–2003 were included, and the mortality rate due to infection between 2004 and 2015 was analyzed. Individuals were considered to have a history of anemia if the serum hemoglobin level in 2002–2003 was < 12 g/dL for women and < 13 g/dL for men. The severity of anemia at that time was categorized as mild (12 g/dL > hemoglobin ≥11 g/dL in women and 13 g/dL > hemoglobin ≥11 g/dL in men), moderate (hemoglobin 8–10.9 g/dL), or severe (hemoglobin < 8 g/dL). Propensity score (PS) matching and Cox regression analysis were used as statistical methods.

Results

Overall, 512,905 individuals were included in this study. The mean age of the participants was 54.5 years old (range: 40–98), and 49,042 (9.6%) individuals were classified in the anemic group, which comprised of 36,383 (7.1%), 11,787 (2.3%), and 872 (0.2%) participants in the mild, moderate, and severe sub-groups, respectively. After PS matching, 49,039 individuals in each group were included in the analysis. The risk of mortality due to infection in the anemic group was 1.77-fold higher (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52–2.60; P < 0.001) than that in the non-anemic group. In the subgroup analysis, the mild and moderate anemia groups had 1.38-fold (HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.55; P < 0.001) and 2.02-fold (HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.62 to 2.50; P < 0.001) risk of mortality due to infection compared to that of the non-anemic group, respectively. The severe anemia group did not have a significantly different risk of mortality due to infection (P = 0.448).

Conclusions

History of anemia was associated with increased mortality rate due to infection at 12-year follow-up.
Prevalence of postpartum depression and associated factors among women in Mbarara and Rwampara districts of south-western Uganda
Authors: Atuhaire Catherine , Rukundo Godfrey Zari , Nambozi Grace , Ngonzi Joseph , Atwine Daniel , Cumber Samuel Nambile , Brennaman Laura
Published: July 2021

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and has severe consequences on the well-being of mothers, new-borns, families, and communities. PPD reduces the mother’s response to the child’s needs. In severe cases, mothers suffering from PPD are prone to postpartum psychosis, commit suicide and, in rare cases, infanticide. We aimed to determine the prevalence and understand the factors associated with PPD among mothers in southwestern Uganda.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study between November 2019 and June 2020 among 292 mothers, 6 to 8 weeks’ postpartum. Mothers were selected from three health facilities in southwestern Uganda and enrolled using stratified consecutive sampling. Postpartum depression was clinically diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V. The factors associated with PPD were assessed by using a structured interviewer administered questionnaire. The factors were analyzed using bivariate chi square analyses and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Overall prevalence of PPD was 27.1% (95% CI: 22.2–32.5). This did not vary by the number of previous births or mode of birth. Five factors associated with PPD were low perceived social support, HIV positive status, rural residence, obstetrical complications and the baby crying excessively.

Conclusion and recommendations

Prevalence of PPD in Mbarara and Rwampara districts is higher than what has previously been reported in Uganda indicating an urgent need to identify pregnant women who are at increased risk of PPD to mitigate their risk or implement therapies to manage the condition. Midwives who attend to these mothers need to be empowered with available methods of mitigating prevalence and consequences of PPD. Women who are HIV positive, residing in rural settings, whose babies cry excessively, having low social support systems and who have birth complications may be a particularly important focus for Ugandan intervention strategies to prevent and reduce the prevalence of PPD.
Impact of a medical scribe on clinical efficiency and quality in an academic general internal medicine practice
Authors: Piersa Anastasia Pozdnyakova , Laiteerapong Neda , Ham Sandra A. , del Castillo Felipe Fernandez , Shah Sachin , Burnet Deborah L. , Lee Wei Wei
Published: July 2021

Background

Scribes have been proposed as an intervention to decrease physician electronic health record (EHR) workload and improve clinical quality. We aimed to assess the impact of a scribe on clinical efficiency and quality in an academic internal medicine practice.

Methods

Six faculty physicians worked with one scribe at an urban academic general internal medicine clinic April through June 2017. Patient visits during the 3 months prior to intervention (baseline, n = 789), unscribed visits during the intervention (concurrent control, n = 605), and scribed visits (n = 579) were included in the study. Clinical efficiency outcomes included time to close encounter, patient time in clinic, and number of visits per clinic session. Quality outcomes included EHR note quality, rates of medication and immunization review, population of patient instructions, reconciliation of outside information, and completion of preventative health recommendations.

Results

Median time to close encounter (IQR) was lower for scribed visits [0.4 (4.8) days] compared to baseline and unscribed visits [1.2 (5.9) and 2.9 (5.4) days, both p < 0.001]. Scribed notes were more likely to have a clear history of present illness (HPI) [OR = 7.30 (2.35–22.7), p = 0.001] and sufficient HPI information [OR = 2.21 (1.13–4.35), p = 0.02] compared to unscribed notes. Physicians were more likely to review the medication list during scribed vs. baseline visits [OR = 1.70 (1.22–2.35), p = 0.002]. No differences were found in the number of visits per clinic session, patient time in clinic, completion of preventative health recommendations, or other outcomes.

Conclusions

Working with a scribe in an academic internal medicine practice was associated with more timely documentation.
Cost-effectiveness and feasibility of conditional economic incentives and motivational interviewing to improve HIV health outcomes of adolescents living with HIV in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Ekwunife Obinna Ikechukwu , Ofomata Chinelo Janefrances , Okafor Charles Ebuka , Anetoh Maureen Ugonwa , Kalu Stephen Okorafor , Ele Prince Udegbunam , Eleje George Uchenna
Published: July 2021

Background

In sub-Saharan Africa, there is increasing mortality and morbidity of adolescents due to poor linkage, retention in HIV care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). This is a result of limited adolescent-centred service delivery interventions. This cost-effectiveness and feasibility study were piggybacked on a cluster-randomized trial that assessed the impact of an adolescent-centred service delivery intervention. The service delivery intervention examined the impact of an incentive scheme consisting of conditional economic incentives and motivational interviewing on the health outcomes of adolescents living with HIV in Nigeria.

Method

A cost-effectiveness analysis from the healthcare provider’s perspective was performed to assess the cost per additional patient achieving undetected viral load through the proposed intervention. The cost-effectiveness of the incentive scheme over routine care was estimated using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), expressed as cost/patient who achieved an undetectable viral load. We performed a univariate sensitivity analysis to examine the effect of key parameters on the ICER. An in-depth interview was conducted on the healthcare personnel in the intervention arm to explore the feasibility of implementing the service delivery intervention in HIV treatment hospitals in Nigeria.

Result

The ICER of the Incentive Scheme intervention compared to routine care was US$1419 per additional patient with undetectable viral load. Going by the cost-effectiveness threshold of US$1137 per quality-adjusted life-years suggested by Woods et al., 2016, the intervention was not cost-effective. The sensitivity test showed that the intervention will be cost-effective if the frequency of CD4 count and viral load tests are reduced from quarterly to triannually. Healthcare professionals reported that patients’ acceptance of the intervention was very high.

Conclusion

The conditional economic incentives and motivational interviewing was not cost-effective, but can become cost-effective if the frequency of HIV quality of life indicator tests are performed 1–3 times per annum. Patients’ acceptance of the intervention was very high. However, healthcare professionals believed that sustaining the intervention may be difficult unless factors such as government commitment and healthcare provider diligence are duly addressed.

Trial registration

This trial is registered in the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry through the WHO International Registry Network (PACTR201806003040425).
Atherogenic index of plasma is related to coronary atherosclerotic disease in elderly individuals: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Haomin , Yu Xiaolong , Li Lamei , Shi Ganwei , Li Feng , Xiao Jianqiang , Yun Zhihua , Cai Gaojun
Published: July 2021

Background

Dyslipidaemia plays an important role in coronary atherosclerotic disease (CAD). The relationship between the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and CAD in elderly individuals was explored in this study.

Methods

Elderly individuals (age ≥ 65 years) who underwent coronary angiography from January 2016 to October 2020 were consecutively enrolled in the study.

Results

A total of 1313 individuals, including 354 controls (non-CAD) and 959 CAD patients, were enrolled. In univariate analysis of all populations, the adjusted AIP (aAIP) in the CAD group was 1.13 (0.96, 1.3), which was significantly higher than that in the controls [1.07 (0.89, 1.26)]. However, in subgroup analyses, this phenomenon was only present in males. In addition, further study showed that aAIP was positively related to CAD severity. In binary logistic regression analyses, after adjusting for sex, age, smoking status, primary hypertension (PH), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), heart rate (HR), white blood cell (WBC) and platelet (PLT), AIP remained independently related to CAD in elderly individuals and was superior to traditional and other nontraditional lipid indices. Subgroup analyses showed that AIP independently influenced CAD risk in males. Ultimately, sensitivity analyses were performed excluding all coronary emergencies, and the final results were similar.

Conclusions

AIP was positively related to the risk and severity of CAD in elderly individuals and was superior to traditional and other nontraditional lipid profiles. However, this association only exists in elderly males.
Central mucoepidermoid carcinoma arising directly from a glandular odontogenic cyst of the mandible: a case report
Authors: Maruyama Satoshi , Mori Taisuke , Yamazaki Manabu , Abé Tatsuya , Ryo Eijitsu , Kano Hiroyuki , Hasegawa Go , Tanuma Jun-ichi
Published: July 2021

Background

Central mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a rare salivary gland tumor that affects the jawbone. Glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) is also a rare odontogenic developmental cyst with glandular differentiation. GOC shares some histological features with central MEC, and a pre-existing GOC can develop into central MEC. Here, we present a rare case of central MEC developed directly from a pre-existing GOC of the mandible.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old Japanese man presented with a cystic lesion in the right third molar region. Histologically, the biopsy specimen demonstrated both typical findings of a GOC component lined with non-keratinized squamous epithelium and a recognizable component of central MEC consisting of polycystic nests with mucous cells, intermediate cells, and epidermoid cells in the cyst wall. The results from the immunohistochemistry for cytokeratin (CK) profiling demonstrated that, while both central MEC and GOC expressed CKs 7, 14, 18, and 19, CK13 was interestingly exclusively expressed in GOC. Fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) revealed the rearrangement of the Mastermind like (MAML)-2 gene in both the MEC and GOC components.

Conclusions

Our case suggests that central MEC and GOC may be in the same spectrum of diseases caused by the rearrangement of the MAML-2 gene. However, given that the expression profile of CK13 was completely different between central MEC and GOC, they can be considered as separate tumors. Overall, we demonstrated a rare case in which central MEC may have originated directly from the GOC.
Nonoperative treatment of recalcitrant neuritis of the infrapatellar saphenous nerve: a case series
Authors: Pearce Beth
Published: July 2021

Background

Neuritis of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve can result from iatrogenic injury, entrapment, bursitis, or patellar dislocation. Currently, there is an unmet clinical need for treating refractory neuritis nonsurgically.

Case presentation

Three patients presented with persistent anterior knee pain caused by neuritis of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve that had got excellent but only temporary relief from steroid and local anesthetic nerve block. The neuropathic pain diagnostic Douleur Neuropathique 4 questionnaire and painDETECT questionnaire confirmed presence of neuropathic pain. After injection with 25 mg amniotic and umbilical cord particulate, the patient’s pain decreased from 7.3 before injection to 0.3 at 6 weeks postinjection. In addition, neuropathic symptoms significantly improved at 2 weeks and were not present by 6 weeks. By 63 weeks, two of the patients reported continued complete pain relief, while one patient underwent total knee replacement due to an allergy of a previously implanted unicondylar implant.

Conclusions

This case series suggests that amniotic and umbilical cord particulate may be a viable alternative to reduce pain in patients with neuropathic pain.
Ruptured arterial aneurysm in Wegener’s granulomatosis: a case report
Authors: Gravos A. , Katsifa K. , Tselioti P. , Grammatikopoulou V. , Sakellaridis K. , Kanakaki S. , Tsapas C. , Destounis A. , Moschouris H. , Athanasiadou I. , Chatzivasiloglou F. , Ivanova E. , Prekates A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Aneurysm formation is a possible, but rare, complication of granulomatosis with polyangiitis, known as Wegener’s granulomatosis. Urgent diagnosis and therapy is very important because a ruptured aneurysm could be life threatening.

Case presentation

We, therefore, present the case of a 63-year-old Greek man who was diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis and retroperitoneal hematoma due to ruptured aneurysm in renal artery and upper pancreaticoduodenal artery. His clinical course was complicated by acute renal failure and acute respiratory failure due to alveolar hemorrhage. Emergency coil embolization was performed. Postembolization recovery was uneventful; no bleeding occurred. The patient underwent mechanical ventilation and continuous veno-venous hemofiltration and received combined immunosuppression and supportive therapy, but eventually died 30 days after admission to hospital from severe septic shock and multiple organ failure.

Conclusion

Endovascular treatment is the therapy of choice, especially for patients with ruptured aneurysms that are hemodynamically stable. Early diagnosis is very important, as urgent embolization and early initiation of immunosuppression therapy are the treatment of choice.
Can vegetation index track the interannual variation in gross primary production of temperate deciduous forests?
Authors: Liu Fan , Wang Chuankuan , Wang Xingchang
Published: July 2021

Background

Vegetation indices (VIs) by remote sensing are widely used as simple proxies of the gross primary production (GPP) of vegetation, but their performances in capturing the inter-annual variation (IAV) in GPP remain uncertain.

Methods

We evaluated the performances of various VIs in tracking the IAV in GPP estimated by eddy covariance in a temperate deciduous forest of Northeast China. The VIs assessed included the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), the enhanced vegetation index (EVI), and the near-infrared reflectance of vegetation (NIRv) obtained from tower-radiometers (broadband) and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), respectively.

Results

We found that 25%–35% amplitude of the broadband EVI tracked the start of growing season derived by GPP (R2: 0.56–0.60, bias < 4 d), while 45% (or 50%) amplitudes of broadband (or MODIS) NDVI represented the end of growing season estimated by GPP (R2: 0.58–0.67, bias < 3 d). However, all the VIs failed to characterize the summer peaks of GPP. The growing-season integrals but not averaged values of the broadband NDVI, MODIS NIRv and EVI were robust surrogates of the IAV in GPP (R2: 0.40–0.67).

Conclusion

These findings illustrate that specific VIs are effective only to capture the GPP phenology but not the GPP peak, while the integral VIs have the potential to mirror the IAV in GPP.