bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pitch angle control with fault diagnosis and tolerance for wind turbine generation systems
Authors: Shi Yiran , Li Shoutao , Wang Shuangxin , Zhai Yujia , Tian Yantao , Yu Ding-Li
Published: February 2021

To enhance the reliability of wind turbine generation systems that are generally located in the remote area and subjected to harsh environment, we design the pitch angle control for variable speed wind turbines with the function of fault diagnosis and fault tolerance. The main fault targeted in this research is the mechanical wear and possible break of the blade, pitch gear set or shaft, which cause shaft rotary friction change. The proposed method uses a disturbance observer to diagnose the fault. The estimated fault is used for component assessment and later maintenance. The fault-tolerant control is achieved using a full-order terminal sliding mode control combined with an adaptive neural network estimator. With the compensation of the adaptive estimator, the post-fault states can be driven onto the sliding surface and converge to a small area around the origin. The full-order terminal sliding mode control ensures the state convergence in finite time. The Lyapunov method is used to derive the control law, so that the closed-loop post-fault stability and the convergence of the adaptive estimator adaptation are both guaranteed. The computer simulations of the pitch angle control based on a 5-MW variable-speed variable-pitch angle wind turbine model are conducted with different types of fault simulated. A third-order nonlinear state space model with fault term is derived, and real physical parameters are applied in the simulations. The simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme and the potential of real-world applications.
Avoidance Coping Partially Accounts for the Relationship Between Trauma-Related Shame and PTSD Symptoms Following Interpersonal Trauma
Authors: Tipsword Jordyn M. , Brown-Iannuzzi Jazmin L. , Jones Alyssa C. , Flores Jessica , Badour Christal L.
Published: February 2021

Research has demonstrated that individuals experiencing trauma-related shame exhibit greater posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. However, little research has investigated additional factors relevant to the shame–PTSD relationship. The current study examined the role of avoidance and approach coping in accounting for the trauma-related shame–PTSD association among 60 women who had experienced interpersonal trauma. Indirect effects tests revealed that avoidance coping partially accounted for the association between shame and interviewer-assessed PTSD symptoms, β = .21, SE = 0.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.03, 0.36]. These findings offer a novel contribution to the growing literature examining negative outcomes following interpersonal trauma.
Evaluation of a School-Based Child Physical and Sexual Abuse Prevention Program
Authors: Thompson Erika L. , Zhou Zhengyang , Garg Ashvita , Rohr Danielle , Ajoku Brittany , Spence Emily E.
Published: February 2021

Background

Evidence-based child sexual and physical abuse prevention programs delivered in schools are needed and require rigorous evaluation of program effects prior to widespread dissemination. The Play it Safe! program is a one-time session delivered by trained facilitators to teach students about recognizing, resisting, and reporting abuse.

Aims

To evaluate a school-based child sexual and physical abuse prevention intervention Play it Safe! among elementary school students using a cluster randomized design.

Method

Six elementary schools in Texas were matched on demographic characteristics, and then randomized to intervention or wait-list control groups. Participants included third to fifth graders ( n = 539). Participants received the pretest assessing vignette-based knowledge of physical and sexual abuse prevention (14 items). The intervention group immediately had the program. One month later, both groups received a posttest using the same validated scale. Multilevel linear regression analyses were estimated, and interaction effects were used to evaluate the effect of Play it Safe! while controlling for other factors.

Results

A statistically significant interaction between the treatment group and time ( b = 1.30, p < .01) indicated a greater increase in the knowledge score over time in the intervention group. Moderating effect of grade was also observed as the intervention tended to have less effect for fifth grade compared with third grade ( b = −1.04, p = .01).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence to support the efficacy of the Play it Safe! program for increasing children’s physical and sexual abuse prevention knowledge and skills among a racially and ethnically diverse sample of elementary school students.
Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis as a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome: A case report
Authors: Cifuentes-González Carlos , Amaris-Martínez Stefania , Reyes-Guanes Juliana , Uribe-Reina Pilar , de-la-Torre Alejandra
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

To present a rare and novel association of Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis as a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome.

Case report:

A 43-year-old Colombian female, presented with corneal ulcers, associated with trichiasis. At the ophthalmological examination forniceal shortening OU and symblepharon OD was found. Conjunctival biopsy was performed, evidencing linear deposition of IgG and IgA antibodies along the basement membrane of the conjunctiva, confirming Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid diagnosis. After 12 years, the patient presented constitutional symptoms, xerostomia, and worsening of xerophthalmia. Laboratory tests showed positive Anti-TG, Anti-TPO, Anti-Ro, and Anti-La antibodies, and salivary gland biopsy was consistent with Sjögren’s Syndrome. Due to these findings, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Sjögren’s Syndrome were diagnosed, defining a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome.

Conclusion:

A novel association of Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome is presented in this case. Ophthalmologists and other specialists involved in the evaluation and treatment of patients with autoimmune diseases, should be aware of this clinical presentation. A multidisciplinary approach in this condition is important for optimum treatment instauration and follow-up, in order to prevent complications.
Impact of interstitial lung disease on mortality in ANCA-associated vasculitis: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Peining , Ma Jing , Wang Guangfa
Published: February 2021

Several retrospectivee described the association of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). However, the relationship between the ILD and mortality in AAV patients have not been established so far. This study aims to estimate the relevance of AAV-associated-ILD (AAV-ILD) and mortality risk by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.A comprehensive systematic review was conducted in accordance with the guidelines of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses). PubMed, Embase.com and the Cochrane Library (Wiley) were searched for original observational studies. Summary estimates were derived with a random-effects model and reported as risk ratio (RR), tested for publication bias and heterogeneity. Ten retrospective cohort studies were included, comprising 526 AAV-ILD patients enrolled from 1974 to 2018. Meta-analysis yielded a pooled RR of 2.90 (95% confidence interval 1.77–4.74) for death among those with AAV-ILD compared to control group. UIP pattern was associated with an even poorer prognosis in comparison to non-UIP pattern (RR 4.36, 95% confidence interval 1.14–16.78). Sensitivity analysis suggested that the meta-RR result was not skewed by a single dominant study. ILD might be associated with a higher mortality risk in AAV patients.
Efficacy and safety of intravitreal aflibercept in ranibizumab-refractory patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Razavi Sam , Kodjikian Laurent , Giocanti-Aurégan Audrey , Dufour Ingrid , Souied Eric
Published: February 2021

Background

Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents have become the standard of care in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Despite generally excellent response rates to anti-VEGF therapy, some patients do not respond or may respond suboptimally. In the case of refractory or rapidly recurring fluid in nAMD, clinicians may switch to another anti-VEGF agent. TITAN was an observational study that assessed the effectiveness and safety of intravitreal aflibercept (IVT-AFL) in patients with nAMD refractory to ranibizumab who switched to IVT-AFL after less than 12 months of ranibizumab treatment in routine clinical practice in France.

Methods

TITAN was an observational, retrospective and prospective 12-month study conducted at 28 centres in France. Patients with nAMD refractory to ranibizumab were enrolled. Patients who were switched from ranibizumab to IVT-AFL were followed for 12 months. Data were obtained from medical records for retrospectively included patients, and at routine follow-up visits for those included prospectively. The main outcome measure was percentage of patients who achieved treatment success (gain of ≥1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters in best-corrected visual acuity [BCVA] and/or any reduction in central retinal thickness [CRT]) from baseline to 12 months after switching. A sample size of 225 patients was determined based on a 2-sided 95% confidence interval with a width equal to 0.12 when the sample proportion was 0.70.

Results

We analysed safety data (N = 217) and clinical outcomes from patients in the per-protocol population (n = 125). The mean (standard deviation) number of IVT-AFL injections was 7.5 (2.6). Treatment success was achieved in 68.8% of patients. Mean BCVA change from baseline to Month 12 was + 1.5 letters (P = 0.105) and the mean CRT change was − 45.0 μm (P <  0.001). In a subgroup analysis, in patients who received three initial monthly IVT-AFL injections, mean BCVA gain was 3.3 letters at Month 12 (P = 0.015). Excluding lack of efficacy and inappropriate scheduling of drug administration, the most common adverse event was eye pain (2.3%).

Conclusions

Switching ranibizumab-refractory patients with nAMD to IVT-AFL may improve visual outcomes in some patients, particularly those who receive three initial monthly injections.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02321241. First posted: December 22, 2014; Last update posted: July 2, 2018
Correction to: Efficacy and acceptability of parent-only group cognitive behavioral intervention for treatment of anxiety disorder in children and adolescents: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yin Bangmin , Teng Teng , Tong Lyu , Li Xuemei , Fan Li , Zhou Xinyu , Xie Peng
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Pelvic organ prolapse and uterine preservation: a cohort study (POP-UP study)
Authors: Gagyor Daniel , Kalis Vladimir , Smazinka Martin , Rusavy Zdenek , Pilka Radovan , Ismail Khaled M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Abdominal and laparoscopic sacro-colpopexy (LSC) is considered the standard surgical option for the management of a symptomatic apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Women who have their uterus, and for whom an LSC is indicated, can have a laparoscopic sacro-hysteropexy (LSH), a laparoscopic supra-cervical hysterectomy and laparoscopic sacro-cervicopexy (LSCH + LSC) or a total laparoscopic hysterectomy and laparoscopic sacro-colpopexy (TLH + LSC). The main aim of this study was to compare clinical and patient reported outcomes of uterine sparing versus concomitant hysterectomy LSC procedures.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of clinical, imaging and patient reported outcomes at baseline, 3 and 12 months after LSH versus either LSCH + LSC or TLH + LSC between January 2015 and January 2019 in a tertiary referral urogynecology center in Pilsen, the Czech Republic.

Results

In total, 294 women were included in this analysis (LSH n = 43, LSCH + LSC n = 208 and TLH + LSC n = 43). There were no differences in the incidence of perioperative injuries and complications. There were no statistically significant differences between the concomitant hysterectomy and the uterine sparing groups in any of the operative, clinical or patient reported outcomes except for a significantly lower anterior compartment failure rate (p = 0.017) and higher optimal mesh placement rate at 12 months in women who had concomitant hysterectomy procedures (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

LSH seems to be associated with higher incidence of anterior compartment failures and suboptimal mesh placement based on postoperative imaging techniques compared to LSC with concomitant hysterectomy.
Systematic review of pragmatic randomised control trials assessing the effectiveness of professional pharmacy services in community pharmacies
Authors: Varas-Doval R. , Saéz-Benito L. , Gastelurrutia M. A. , Benrimoj S. I. , Garcia-Cardenas V. , Martinez-Martínez F.
Published: February 2021

Background

Implementation of Professional Pharmacy Services (PPSs) requires a demonstration of the service’s impact (efficacy) and its effectiveness. Several systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials (RCT) have shown the efficacy of PPSs in patient’s outcomes in community pharmacy. There is, however, a need to determine the level of evidence on the effectiveness of PPSs in daily practice by means of pragmatic trials.

To identify and analyse pragmatic RCTs that measure the effectiveness of PPSs in clinical, economic and humanistic outcomes in the community pharmacy setting.

Methods

A systematic search was undertaken in MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and SCIELO. The search was performed on January 31, 2020. Papers were assessed against the following inclusion criteria (1) The intervention could be defined as a PPS; (2) Undertaken in a community pharmacy setting; (3) Was an original paper; (4) Reported quantitative measures of at least one health outcome indicator (ECHO model); (5) The design was considered as a pragmatic RCT, that is, it fulfilled 3 predefined attributes. External validity was analyzed with PRECIS- 2 tool.

Results

The search strategy retrieved 1,587 papers. A total of 12 pragmatic RCTs assessing 5 different types of PPSs were included. Nine out of the 12 papers showed positive statistically significant differences in one or more of the primary outcomes (clinical, economic or humanistic) that could be associated with the following PPS: Smoking cessation, Dispensing/Adherence service, Independent prescribing and MTM. No paper reported on cost-effectiveness outcomes.

Conclusions

There is limited available evidence on the effectiveness of community-based PPS. Pragmatic RCTs to evaluate clinical, humanistic and economic outcomes of PPS are needed.
High order algorithms for numerical solution of fractional differential equations
Authors: Asl Mohammad Shahbazi , Javidi Mohammad , Yan Yubin
Published: February 2021

In this paper, two novel high order numerical algorithms are proposed for solving fractional differential equations where the fractional derivative is considered in the Caputo sense. The total domain is discretized into a set of small subdomains and then the unknown functions are approximated using the piecewise Lagrange interpolation polynomial of degree three and degree four. The detailed error analysis is presented, and it is analytically proven that the proposed algorithms are of orders 4 and 5. The stability of the algorithms is rigorously established and the stability region is also achieved. Numerical examples are provided to check the theoretical results and illustrate the efficiency and applicability of the novel algorithms.
Effect of Dapagliflozin on Urine Metabolome in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bletsa Evdoxia , Filippas-Dekouan Sebastien , Kostara Christina , Dafopoulos Panagiotis , Dimou Aikaterini , Pappa Eleni , Chasapi Styliani , Spyroulias Georgios , Koutsovasilis Anastasios , Bairaktari Eleni , Ferrannini Ele , Tsimihodimos Vasilis
Published: February 2021

Context

Inhibitors of sodium-glucose cotransporters-2 have cardio- and renoprotective properties. However, the underlying mechanisms remain indeterminate.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of dapagliflozin on renal metabolism assessed by urine metabolome analysis in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Outpatient diabetes clinic of a tertiary academic center.

Patients

Eighty patients with hemoglobin A1c > 7% on metformin monotherapy were prospectively enrolled.

Intervention

Fifty patients were treated with dapagliflozin for 3 months. To exclude that the changes observed in urine metabolome were merely the result of the improvement in glycemia, 30 patients treated with insulin degludec were used for comparison.

Main Outcome Measure

Changes in urine metabolic profile before and after the administration of dapagliflozin and insulin degludec were assessed by proton-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

In multivariate analysis urine metabolome was significantly altered by dapagliflozin (R2X = 0.819, R2Y = 0.627, Q2Y = 0.362, and coefficient of variation analysis of variance, P < 0.001) but not insulin. After dapagliflozin, the urine concentrations of ketone bodies, lactate, branched chain amino acids (P < 0.001), betaine, myo-inositol (P < 0001), and N-methylhydantoin (P < 0.005) were significantly increased. Additionally, the urine levels of alanine, creatine, sarcosine, and citrate were also increased (P < 0001, P <0.0001, and P <0.0005, respectively) whereas anserine decreased (P < 0005).

Conclusions

Dapagliflozin significantly affects urine metabolome in patients with type 2 diabetes in a glucose lowering-independent way. Most of the observed changes can be considered beneficial and may contribute to the renoprotective properties of dapagliflozin.
Assembling cheap, high-performance microphones for recording terrestrial wildlife: the Sonitor system
Authors: Darras Kevin , Kolbrek Bjørn , Knorr Andreas , Meyer Volker , Zippert Mike , Wenzel Arne
Published: February 2021

Passive acoustic monitoring of wildlife requires sound recording systems. Several cheap, high-performance, or open-source solutions currently exist for recording soundscapes, but all rely on commercial microphones. Commercial microphones are relatively expensive, specialized for particular taxa, and often have incomplete technical specifications. We designed Sonitor, an open-source microphone system to address all needs of ecologists that sample terrestrial wildlife acoustically. We evaluated the cost and durability of our system and measured trade-offs that are seldom acknowledged but which universally limit microphones' functions: weatherproofing versus sound attenuation, windproofing versus transmission loss after rain, signal loss in long cables, and analog sound amplification versus directivity with acoustic horns. We propose five microphone configurations suiting different budgets (from 8 to 33 EUR per unit), and fulfilling different sound quality and flexibility requirements. The Sonitor system consists of sturdy acoustic sensors that cover the entire sound frequency spectrum of sonant terrestrial wildlife at a fraction of the cost of commercial microphones.
Low-volume high-intensity interval training for children with obesity: a commentary
Authors: Jürimäe Jaak
Published: February 2021

Obesity is the most common chronic disease in childhood, and is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) later in life. Being obese is inversely associated with physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in children. Increased CRF may negate the detrimental effects of obesity-associated risk factors for CVD, while poor CRF has been associated with increased arterial stiffness and higher levels of blood inflammatory markers. The use of time efficient high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to reduce CVD risk factors and body mass, improve CRF and other health parameters has become popular during the last years in adults with obesity. However, a relatively few studies have investigated the effect of HIIT on body composition, CRF and cardiometabolic biomarkers in children with obesity. It is expected that low-volume HIIT programs are feasable for community-based body mass reduction and health promotion in children with obesity.
Implementing a Telehospitalist Program Between Veterans Health Administration Hospitals: Outcomes, Acceptance, and Barriers to Implementation
Authors: Gutierrez Jeydith , Moeckli Jane , Holcombe Andrea , O'Shea Amy MJ , Bailey George , Rewerts Kelby , Hagiwara Mariko , Sullivan Steven , Simon Melissa , Kaboli Peter
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Telehospitalist services are an innovative alternative approach to address staffing issues in rural and small hospitals.

OBJECTIVE

To determine clinical outcomes and staff and patient satisfaction with a novel telehospitalist program among Veterans Health Administration (VHA) hospitals.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We conducted a mixed‐methods evaluation of a quality improvement program with pre‐ and postimplementation measures. The hub site was a tertiary (high‐complexity) VHA hospital, and the spoke site was a 10‐bed inpatient medical unit at a rural (low‐complexity) VHA hospital. All patients admitted during the study period were assigned to the spoke site.

INTERVENTION

Real‐time videoconferencing was used to connect a remote hospitalist physician with an on‐site advanced practice provider and patients. Encounters were documented in the electronic health record.

MAIN OUTCOMES

Process measures included workload, patient encounters, and daily census. Outcome measures included length of stay (LOS), readmission rate, mortality, and satisfaction of providers, staff, and patients. Surveys measured satisfaction. Qualitative analysis included unstructured and semi‐structured interviews with spoke‐site staff.

RESULTS

Telehospitalist program implementation led to a significant reduction in LOS (3.0 [SD, 0.7] days vs 2.3 [SD, 0.3] days). The readmission rate was slightly higher in the telehospitalist group, with no change in mortality rate. Satisfaction among teleproviders was very high. Hub staff perceived the service as valuable, though satisfaction with the program was mixed. Technology and communication challenges were identified, but patient satisfaction remained mostly unchanged.

CONCLUSION

Telehospitalist programs are a feasible and safe way to provide inpatient coverage and address rural hospital staffing needs. Ensuring adequate technological quality and addressing staff concerns in a timely manner can enhance program performance.
Experimental demonstration of second-harmonic generation in high χ2 metasurfaces
Authors: Soun Léna , Fix Baptiste , El Ouazzani Hasnaa , Héron Sébastien , Bardou Nathalie , Dupuis Christophe , Derelle Sophie , Jaeck Julien , Haïdar Riad , Bouchon Patrick
Published: February 2021

Metasurfaces able to concentrate light at various wavelengths are promising for enhancing nonlinear interactions. In this Letter, we experimentally demonstrate infrared second-harmonic generation (SHG) by a multi-resonant nanostructure. A 100 GaAs layer embedded in a metal-insulator-metal waveguide is shown to support various localized resonances. One resonance enhances the nonlinear polarization due to the transverse magnetic (TM)-polarized pump wavelength near

3.2

µ

m

, while another is set near the TE-polarized generated wavelength (

1.6

µ

m

). The measured SHG efficiency is higher than

10

−
9

W

−
1

for pump wavelengths ranging from 2.9 to

3.3

µ

m

, which agrees with theoretical computations. This is typically 4 orders of magnitude higher than the equivalent GaAs membrane.
A prospective study to evaluate the accuracy of rapid diagnostic tests for diagnosis of human leptospirosis: Result from THAI-LEPTO AKI study
Authors: Dinhuzen Janejira , Limothai Umaporn , Tachaboon Sasipha , Krairojananan Panadda , Laosatiankit Bangon , Boonprasong Sakarin , Lumlertgul Nuttha , Peerapornratana Sadudee , Srisawat Nattachai
Published: February 2021

Background

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have become widely used in low-resource settings for leptospirosis diagnostic. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the five commercially available RDTs to detect human IgM against Leptospira spp. in Thai population.

Methodology/Principal findings

Ninety-nine serum samples from Leptospirosis suspicious patients were tested with five RDTs, including Medical Science Public Health, Leptocheck-WB, SD bioline, TRUSTline, and J.Mitra. The case definition was based on MAT, qPCR, and culture results. Diagnostic accuracy was determined based on the first day of enrollment in an overall analysis and stratified according to days post-onset of fever. The five RDTs had overall sensitivity ranging from 1.8% to 75% and specificity ranging from 52.3% to 97.7%. Leptocheck-WB had high sensitivity of 75.0%. The sensitivity of five RDTs increased on days 4–6 post-onset of fever, while the specificity of all tests remained relatively stable at different days post-onset of fever.

Conclusions/Significance

The tested RDTs showed low sensitivity. Therefore, based on the present study, five commercially available RDTs might not be an appropriate test for acute leptospirosis screening in the Thai population.
Cyp33 binds AU-rich RNA motifs via an extended interface that competitively disrupts the gene repressive Cyp33-MLL1 interaction in vitro
Authors: Lloyd Neil R. , Wuttke Deborah S.
Published: February 2021

Cyp33 is an essential human cyclophilin prolyl isomerase that plays myriad roles in splicing and chromatin remodeling. In addition to a canonical cyclophilin (Cyp) domain, Cyp33 contains an RNA-recognition motif (RRM) domain, and RNA-binding triggers proline isomerase activity. One prominent role for Cyp33 is through a direct interaction with the mixed lineage leukemia protein 1 (MLL1, also known as KMT2A) complex, which is a histone methyltransferase that serves as a global regulator of human transcription. MLL activity is regulated by Cyp33, which isomerizes a key proline in the linker between the PHD3 and Bromo domains of MLL1, acting as a switch between gene activation and repression. The direct interaction between MLL1 and Cyp33 is critical, as deletion of the MLL1-PHD3 domain responsible for this interaction results in oncogenesis. The Cyp33 RRM is central to these activities, as it binds both the PHD3 domain and RNA. To better understand how RNA binding drives the action of Cyp33, we performed RNA-SELEX against full-length Cyp33 accompanied by deep sequencing. We have identified an enriched Cyp33 binding motif (AAUAAUAA) broadly represented in the cellular RNA pool as well as tightly binding RNA aptamers with affinities comparable and competitive with the Cyp33 MLL1-PHD3 interaction. RNA binding extends beyond the canonical RRM domain, but not to the Cyp domain, suggesting an indirect mechanism of interaction. NMR chemical shift mapping confirms an overlapping, but not identical, interface on Cyp33 for RNA and PHD3 binding. This finding suggests RNA can disrupt the gene repressive Cyp33-MLL1 complex providing another layer of regulation for chromatin remodeling by MLL1.
Serum 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level in general Korean population and its relationship with other vitamin D biomarkers
Authors: Kim Hyun-Ki , Chung Hye Jin , Lê Hương Giang , Na Byoung-Kuk , Cho Min-Chul
Published: February 2021

Background

Vitamin D status is presently assessed by measuring total serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D]. However, 25(OH)D concentration alone might not accurately reflect vitamin D status owing to its weak relationship with various clinical indices and inconsistency across races. Recently, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [24,25(OH)2D] and vitamin D metabolite ratio [VMR; ratio of 24,25(OH)2D to 25(OH)D] have emerged as vitamin D biomarkers. The present study aimed to determine the values of 24,25(OH)2D and VMR in healthy Koreans and compare them with other vitamin D biomarkers, including 25(OH)D and bioavailable 25(OH)D.

Methods

Serum samples and medical information were collected from 200 individuals (100 females and 100 males) who underwent general health checks without self-reported symptoms. We measured 24,25(OH)2D concentration using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, and concentrations of 25(OH)D and vitamin D binding protein using immunoassays. VMR and bioavailable 25(OH)D concentration were calculated using the above data. Serum parathyroid hormone level, and bone mineral density (BMD) data were collected as clinical outcomes, and the effects of the vitamin D markers on them were tested using multiple linear regression models.

Results

The mean values of 25(OH)D, 24,25(OH)2D, VMR, and bioavailable 25(OH)D were 24.3 ± 8.5 ng/mL, 1.9 ± 1.1 ng/mL, 7.6 ± 2.5, and 3.2 ± 1.2 ng/mL, respectively. The concentration of 25(OH)D closely correlated with 24,25(OH)2D (R = 0.868, P < 0.001) and bioavailable 25(OH)D (R = 0.862, P < 0.001). No significant effects of 24,25(OH)2D, VMR, and bioavailable 25(OH)D were observed on the prediction of PTH and BMD in the multiple linear regression models.

Conclusion

Our study presents the distribution of 24,25(OH)2D concentration and VMR in Korean population for the first time. Overall, our data reaffirm that 25(OH)D is the primary marker for determining vitamin D status in the general population.
Managing conflicting goals through prioritization? The role of age and relative goal importance
Authors: Freund Alexandra M. , Tomasik Martin J.
Published: February 2021

Three studies tested the role of prioritization in solving conflict between multiple goals in different age groups. Study 1 (N = 185 young, middle-aged, older adults) stressed the importance to solve two competing tasks equally well within a short time. Older adults prioritized more than younger adults. However, contrary to our expectations, prioritization led to higher perceived conflict, more negative affect, and less control. Study 2 (N = 117 younger and older adults) found that, using a more lenient instruction, deemphasizing the importance of performing equally well on both tasks, prioritization was no longer associated with perceived goal conflict. Study 3 (N = 721 young, middle-aged, older adults) was an online study using hypothetical scenarios. This study was run to substantiate the potential mechanism underlying the differences between Study 1 and 2 and supported the hypothesized effect of the instructional strictness of pursuing two goals. Thus, when encountering conflicting goals older adults prioritize more than younger adults, but prioritization might not be optimal for solving short-term goal conflict when both conflicting goals are equally important.
Inhalational versus intravenous maintenance of anesthesia for quality of recovery in patients undergoing corrective lower limb osteotomy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Ju Hyang Mi , Choi Chong-Hyuck , Park Hae Ri , Shin Seokyung
Published: February 2021

Background

Inhalational anesthesia and propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) are the two most popular methods of general anesthesia with distinct characteristics that may affect quality of recovery (QOR) differently. This study compared QOR after corrective lower limb osteotomy between desflurane-based inhalational anesthesia and propofol-based TIVA.

Methods

Sixty-eight patients, ASA class I or II who underwent corrective lower limb osteotomy were randomized to receive either desflurane anesthesia or propofol TIVA. The primary outcome was quality of recovery 40 (QoR-40) questionnaire scores on postoperative day (POD) 1 and 2. Postoperative nausea scores, antiemetic requirements, and amount of opioid consumption via intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV PCA) were assessed as secondary outcomes.

Results

Global QoR-40 scores on POD 1 (153.5 (140.3, 171.3) vs. 140.0 (120.0, 173.0), P = 0.056, 95% CI; -22.5, 0.2) and POD 2 (155.5 (146.8, 175.5) vs. 152.0 (134.0, 179.0), P = 0.209, 95% CI; -17.5, 3.9) were comparable between the two groups. Among the five dimensions of QoR-40, physical independence scores were significantly higher in the TIVA group compared to the Desflurane group on POD both 1 and 2. Nausea scores (0.0 (0.0, 0.0) vs. 1.0 (0.0, 3.5), P < 0.001) and number of patients requiring rescue antiemetics (0% vs. 15.2%, P = 0.017) were significantly lower in the TIVA group at the post anesthesia care unit (PACU). Although the number of bolus attempts between 0–24 h and the morphine equivalent dose of analgesics administered via IV PCA between 12–24 h were significantly less in the TIVA group compared to the Desflurane group, there was no significant difference between groups for the overall 48 h postoperative period.

Conclusions

Propofol-based TIVA did not improve global QoR-40 scores compared with desflurane-based inhalational anesthesia. However, considering the better QoR-40 scores in the domain of physical independence and less nausea in the early postoperative period, propofol TIVA should be considered as a useful option in patients undergoing corrective lower limb osteotomy.
Interspecific two-dimensional visual discrimination of faces in horses (Equus caballus)
Authors: Ragonese Giulia , Baragli Paolo , Mariti Chiara , Gazzano Angelo , Lanatà Antonio , Ferlazzo Adriana , Fazio Esterina , Cravana Cristina
Published: February 2021

In social animals, recognizing conspecifics and distinguishing them from other animal species is certainly important. We hypothesize, as demonstrated in other species of ungulates, that horses are able to discriminate between the faces of conspecifics and the faces of other domestic species (cattle, sheep, donkeys and pigs). Our hypothesis was tested by studying inter-and intra-specific visual discrimination abilities in horses through a two-way instrumental conditioning task (discrimination and reversal learning), using two-dimensional images of faces as discriminative stimuli and food as a positive reward. Our results indicate that 8 out of 10 horses were able to distinguish between two-dimensional images of the faces of horses and images showing the faces of other species. A similar performance was obtained in the reversal task. The horses’ ability to learn by discrimination is therefore comparable to other ungulates. Horses also showed the ability to learn a reversal task. However, these results were obtained regardless of the images the tested horses were exposed to. We therefore conclude that horses can discriminate between two dimensional images of conspecifics and two dimensional images of different species, however in our study, they were not able to make further subcategories within each of the two categories. Despite the fact that two dimensional images of animals could be treated differently from two dimensional images of non-social stimuli, our results beg the question as to whether a two-dimensional image can replace the real animal in cognitive tests.
Patient perspectives on an intervention after suicide attempt: The need for patient centred and individualized care
Authors: Michaud Laurent , Dorogi Yves , Gilbert Sophie , Bourquin Céline
Published: February 2021

Background

Many types of intervention exist for suicide attempters, but they tend not to sufficiently consider patient’s views.

Aim

To identify useful components of a previously evaluated intervention after a suicide attempt from the patient’s views and to better understand the process of recovery.

Method

Forty-one interviews with suicide attempters were qualitatively analysed. Views of participants (i) on the components of the intervention (nurse case-management, joint crisis plan, meetings with relatives/network and follow-up calls) and (ii) their recovery were explored. The material was analysed by means of thematic analysis with a deductive-inductive approach.

Results

Participants valued the human and professional qualities of the nurse case-manager, and appreciated follow-up calls and meetings. However, their views diverged regarding for instance frequency of phone calls, or disclosing information or lack thereof. Interpersonal relationship, suicide attempters’ own resources and life changes emerged as core recovery factors.

Discussion

The study highlights the figure of an engaged clinician, with both professional and human commitment, aware that some suicide attempters put more emphasis on their own resources than on delivered health care.

Conclusions

Interventions should consider the clinician as the cornerstone of the tailored care valued by suicide attempters.
Assessment of plasma BMP-2, BMP-7, BMP-10, vitamin D, and TGF β1 in simple fractures among Sudanese patients
Authors: Ali Amin Ahmed , Mukhtar Muawia Mohamed , Shaheen Samir , Mohamed Abdelrahim Osman
Published: February 2021

Background

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) are multifunctional proteins. They work as cytokines regulating osteogenesis during fracture healing process. The objectives of this study were to assess changes in BMPs during fracture and their correlations to Fracture’s healing.

Methods

Case-Control hospital–based study conducted from January 2018 to January 2019. Demographic data, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples were collected from patients and controls (18–65 years old). Plasma concentrations of selected BMPs and vitamin D were measured using quantitative enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SPSS version 25 was used to calculate frequencies, Pearson correlation tests, chi-square and unpaired t-test.

Results

Sixty-five patients with fractures and Sixty-five controls were studied. Means of plasma concentrations were (TGFβ1 = 21.07 ng/ml ±8.49 and 19.8 ng/ml ±7.2) (BMP-2 = 76.3 pg/ml ± 156.6 and 55.5 ng/ml ± 127.9) (BMP-7 = 13.02 pg/ml ±43.5 and 64.6pg/ml ±250) (BMP-10 = 8.14 pg/ml ±12.7 and 5.48 pg/ml ±11.3) (Vitamin D mean was 24.94 ng/ml ±13.2 and 26.2 ng/ml ±11.6) in patients and controls, respectively. Forty-five subjects were enrolled into follow up study: 30 males, 15 females. Healing time mean was 4.13± 2.6 months. No significant correlation between BMP-2/BMP-7 with healing time.

Conclusions

BMP-7 was significantly lowers in the plasma of patients that controls (P = 0.042). Low Vitamin D was observed among Sudanese participants.
Mentes brillantes (2018): Una odisea para conseguir una plaza en medicina
Authors: Pintor Holguín Emilio , Martínez Alsina Nieves , Gutiérrez Cisneros María Josefa
Published: February 2021

Antoine y Benjamin son dos jóvenes franceses que, tras haber terminado sus estudios de bachillerato en ciencias, coindicen en el curso preparatorio para elegir su futura carrera universitaria. Solo aquellos que consigan las mejores notas y por tanto los mejores puestos al final del curso podrán elegir medicina. Mientras que para Antoine; que no tiene una mente especialmente brillante, pero si una capacidad de sufrimiento y de estudio ilimitado, el conseguir una plaza para estudiar medicina es lo más importante en su vida, para Benjamin; cuyo padre es cirujano digestivo, y le resulta relativamente fácil sacar buenas notas, no tiene clara su vocación. La película plantea una crítica sobre cuáles son los parámetros que determinan quienes deben ser aceptados para estudiar medicina así como la creciente competitividad entre los posibles candidatos, donde a la hora de la verdad, tus amigos pasan a ser competidores y por tanto enemigos
Key Success Factors in Managing and Implementing Public Funded R&D Projects in Indonesia
Authors: Hermawati Wati
Published: February 2021

Public Research Centers (PRCs) in Indonesia are mostly operated by government funding. However, their role in supporting innovation and economic performance of MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) is still very small.  The objective of this research is to determine what are the success factors in managing R&D projects at a PRC in Indonesia, particularly in providing solving problems of MSMEs. Two case studies of R&D Projects from a PRC ‘X’ were selected, namely: organic fertilizer project and appropriate technology project.  Both projects are quite different in terms of the research process. By using qualitative method, all R&D process elements were investigated. Results of the study shows that in general both case studies have indicated success factors that make R&D project success and effectively manage and grouped them into three common categories, namely project management process; project resources;  and project environments. The two case studies show that each project have different success factors and the lessons learned of these projects can be very useful to improve R&D project activities at PRCs.

Keywords : R&D Project, Public Research Center, Success Factors, R&D Management
A Comparative Study on Three Different Combinations of Ketofol for Induction of General Anaesthesia
Authors: Chingtham Bijaya , Singh Langpoklakpam Chaoba , Ramakrishna Saraswathi , Jain Rahul , Gurung Anita
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND Ketamine and propofol are one of the commonly used drugs for induction of general anaesthesia. Ketofol, is the combination of ketamine and propofol in varying concentrations. Due to the paucity of information in the literature regarding comparison of different combinations of ketofol for use as an induction agent, we intend to study the various doses of propofol ketamine combination in view of its haemodynamic stability and its relevance to speed of induction as well as side effect profile. METHODS This is a double blinded randomised controlled trial study. 60 patients posted for elective surgery under general anaesthesia were selected. They were randomly allotted to three groups with 20 patients in each group. Group 1 received ketofol in the ratio of 1:1, group 2 in the ratio of 1:2, group 3 in the ratio of 1:3. The time from the start of injection till the loss of verbal command, induction time, was noted. Mean arterial pressure, incidence of apnoea, awareness, hallucinations and post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) were noted. RESULTS Induction time was fastest in group 3 followed by group 2 followed by group 1. It was statistically significant. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was comparable in all the three groups at different time intervals except at 5 minutes after induction, the fall in group 3 was significant. The change in MAP as compared to baseline in group 1 and 2 in different time intervals was not significant. But the fall in MAP was significant as compared to baseline in all the different time intervals in group 3. There was no reported incidence of apnoea, awareness and hallucinations in all the three groups. There were two reported cases of PONV in group 1, one in group 2 and zero in group 3. CONCLUSIONS Ketofol with the maximum propofol and least ketamine combination has the fastest induction time. Ketofol in the combination of 1:1 and 1:2 offers more haemodynamic stability as compared to 1:3 combination and ketofol has minimal side effects. KEY WORDS Ketofol, Different Combinations, Induction Time, Haemodynamic Stability
An Innovative Approach for the Management of Complex Crown Fracture - A Case Report
Authors: Arora Anshul , Arya Ashtha , Grewal Mandeep S. , Gugnani Megha , Simran Simran
Published: February 2021

A tooth can be broken due to many reasons, out of which deep cervical caries can be the one leading to destruction of the whole buccal surface of the tooth. So, to preserve such kind of tooth, root canal treatment is the ultimate treatment option followed by proper selection of the restorative means of such endodontically treated tooth. endodontically treated tooth (ETT) has loss of tooth structure and changes in physical characteristics. Therefore, proper selection of restoration for ETT is mandatory to maintain almost the same level of strength and regaining its functional abilities. The decision of doing restoration of endodontically treated teeth depends on many factors like the amount of tooth structure remaining, condition of the opposing tooth, etc. In cases of less than 50 % tooth structure remaining post and core followed by crown is the best treatment option. This article showcases a case report of treatment of anterior teeth with deep cervical caries. The posts used in these cases were fiber post which were luted and the core build up was done with ParaCore, which is a glassreinforced composite by Coltene. Deep cervical caries can lead to destruction of the whole buccal surface of the tooth. So, to preserve such kind of tooth, root canal treatment followed by proper selection of restoration for endodontically treated tooth is mandatory to maintain almost the same level of strength and to regain its functional abilities. This article showcases a case report of treatment of anterior teeth with deep cervical caries.
A közelség szerepének újraértelmezése az innovatív üzleti kapcsolatokban (Rethinking the role of the proximity in the innovative business relationships)
Authors: Lengyel Imre , Fenyővári Zsolt , Nagy Bendedek
Published: February 2021

Az innovatív vállalati kapcsolatokkal foglalkozó vizsgálatok sokasága az innovációs folyamatok „kettősségéről” ad számot. Egyrészt felértékelődött a térbeli közelség szerepe, emiatt az innovatív vállalkozások, intézmények térben koncentrálódnak, főleg a nagyvárosokban. Másrészt szerteágazó hálózatok jöttek létre a különböző országokban működő innovatív vállalatok, intézetek között, amelyek többsége a nagy távolságok ellenére is sikeres. Mindezen megfigyelések arra utalnak, hogy pontosítani kell a közelség és távolság üzleti szerepéről vallott ismereteket a változó globalizációs feltételekhez igazítva. A szerzők tanulmányukban áttekintik a térbeli közelség szerepének főbb jellemzőit az innovatív tevékenységeken alapuló vállalati együttműködések kialakulásában és fenntartásában. A hagyományos felfogások rövid ismertetése után a „hálózati közelség”, másképpen „kapcsolati közelség” (relational proximity) egyes típusait elemzik. Részletesen kitérnek a regionális klaszterek és a lokális innovatív miliő főbb jellemzőire, amelyek a térbeli és a kapcsolati közelségekből eredő előnyöket egyaránt hasznosítják. Ezek a mérvadó nemzetközi tapasztalatok itthon is alkalmazhatók az egyetemi és vállalati együttműködések, illetve a helyi gazdaságfejlesztési és vállalkozásfejlesztési programok kidolgozásakor. ________ Multiple studies of innovative business relations give an account about „the double character” of innovative processes. On the one hand, the role of proximity has been appreciated, for this reason, the innovative companies, institutes are concentrated in space, especially in big cities. On the other hand extensive networks have been established among innovative companies, institutes operating in the different countries, most of which are successful in spite of the long distance. All these observations suggest there is a need to clarify business skills on the role of proximity and distance, tailored to the changing conditions of globalization. In their study the authors review the role of the main features of spatial proximity in formation and maintenace of corporate cooperation based on innovative activities. After a brief description of traditional concepts certain types of „network proximity” otherwise relational proximity are analyzed. They cover main features of regional clusters and the local innovative environment which utilize advantages coming both from spatial and relational proximities. This leading international experience are applicable at home as well when elaborating academic and corporate cooperation resp. local development programs for the economy and corporations.