bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microsurgery of Cerebral Aneurysm: Epidemiological Profile
Authors: Ribeiro Luiz Roberto Tomasi , De Menezes Rubens Thadeu Mangilli , Madeira Kristian , Moreira Carlos Fernando dos Santos
Published: April 2020

Objectives Intracranial aneurysm consists of localized dilatation of the vascular wall. Its importance includes the fearsome event of rupture and subarachnoid hemorrhage, which presents high morbimortality rates. The present study aimed to analyze the profile and clinical outcome of patients submitted to the microsurgical approach of cerebral aneurysm in the city of Criciúma, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, from 2015 to 2018.

Methods A retrospective observational study was performed, with secondary data collection and a quantitative approach of 47 charts.

Results A predominance of females (74.5%) and a mean age of 53 years old (53.53 ± 9.64) was observed. The middle cerebral artery was the most affected vessel (36.2%), with the highest percentage of aneurysms being between 2.1 mm and 7.0 mm (65.9%). There was a correlation between consciousness level and classification on the Hunt-Hess (HH) scale. Patients with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) > 7 points had a better prognostic score in the HH scale, and those with GCS ≤ 7 points had a worse prognostic score in the HH scale.

Conclusions The present study observed the presence of important risk factors for cerebral aneurysm formation, such as gender, age, smoking, and systemic arterial hypertension. The present study can measure a correlation of the level of consciousness with the HH classification.
Brain Tuberculoma as a Differential Diagnosis of Single Intracranial Lesion: Case Report
Authors: Gregol Bruno Missio , Berres Taís Otilia , Barreto Tasso , Giacomelli Richard , Schwingel Daniela , Oleksinski Clarissa Giaretta , Mesquita Filho Paulo Moacir
Published: April 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) of the central nervous system (CNS) is considered one of the most severe forms of presentation of the disease. Although only 1% of TB cases involve the CNS, these cases represent around between 5 and 15% of extrapulmonary forms.1
2 Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most frequent form of CNS TB. The granulomas formed in the cerebral tuberculoma may cause hydrocephalus and other symptoms indicative of a CNS mass lesion. In the absence of active TB or TBM, the symptoms may be interpreted as indicative of tumors.3
4 The prognosis is directly related to the early diagnosis and proper treatment installation.5 We report the case of a patient with intracranial hypertension syndrome, expansive mass in the parieto-occipital region, accompanied by a lesion in the rib, initially thought to be a metastatic lesion, although posteriorly diagnosed as a cerebral tuberculoma.
Risk Factors for Early Periprosthetic Fracture after Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Durand Wesley M. , Meftah Morteza , Schwarzkopf Ran
Published: April 2020

Periprosthetic fracture (PPF) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with adverse outcomes. Many studies have sought to determine risk factors for PPF, though controversy exists regarding several variables. This study sought to determine risk factors for early PPF using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) dataset. Patients with a primary current procedural terminology for THA were identified. The primary outcome was reoperation/readmission for PPF within 30 days. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to adjust for confounding factors. A total of 159,234 patients were included in the study, of whom 195 patients (0.12%) had a PPF within 30 days, with a mean day of reoperation/readmission of 14.6 (standard deviation 7.7). A total of 68 patients (34.9% of those fractured) underwent one or more reoperations. In multivariable analysis, risk factors for PPF were higher body mass index (BMI; odds ratio [OR] 1.03 per mg/kg2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0–1.05) and higher preoperative leukocyte count (OR 1.04 per 103/mL, 95% CI 1.01–1.06). Among females, age (OR 1.05 per year, 95% CI 1.04–1.07) was significantly associated with PPF, but a similar difference was not observed among males (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.98–1.04). Controlling for patient age, there was no significant difference in risk of PPF for females versus males (p = 0.2213). PPF was associated with the development of additional complications (OR 4.10, 95% CI 2.68–6.27). This study identified risk factors for PPF after primary THA. These results have implications for preoperative planning and postoperative precautions among patients with particularly elevated risk of PPF.
Effects of soybean meal versus processed whole soybean diets on the performance of young bulls and the fatty acid composition of intramuscular fat
Authors: Oliveira C. V. R. , Schoonmaker J. P. , Casagrande D. R. , Machado Neto O. R. , Reis V. A. A. , Teixeira P. D. , Santos L. R. , Ladeira M. M.
Published: April 2020

Context It is hypothesised that the use of processed soybean for feedlot beef cattle improves feed efficiency and produces beef with a better fatty acid profile for human health. Aims This study aimed to evaluate average daily gain, feed efficiency, carcass traits, chemical composition, fatty acid profile and colour in the beef of young bulls fed diets with ground or extruded soybean. Methods A total of 60 young Zebu bulls (Nellore or Nellore crossed with other Zebu breeds) with an average initial liveweight of 320 ± 8.12 kg and an average initial age of 20 ± 2 months were randomly assigned to receive one of the following diets for 84 days: dehulled and defatted soybean meal (3.22% of ether extract), ground soybean (6.51% of ether extract) or extruded soybean (6.37% of ether extract). The fatty acid profiles of these animals were analysed using high-resolution gas chromatography. The CIE L*a*b* colour space model was used to numerically describe the colour during the aging period (0, 7, 14 and 21 days). Key results Diet had no effect on the average daily gain, feed efficiency or carcass traits of the animals (P > 0.05). Protein, ether extract and ash composition of the Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle were not affected (P > 0.30) by the use of processed soybean grains. The ground soybean diet decreased oleic acid and C18:2 c9, t11 concentrations, but increased C18:2 t10, c12 and trans-octadecenoic acid isomer concentrations in the LL muscle compared with those in the dehulled and defatted soybean meal and extruded soybean diets (P < 0.05). Muscle from bulls fed processed soybean exhibited greater concentrations of stearic acid and saturated fatty acids, and a lower concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, as well as a decreased unsaturated fatty acids:saturated fatty acids ratio (P < 0.05). Processed soybean grains did not affect (P > 0.05) the LL muscle pH or colour. Conclusions The use of ground or extruded soybean did not affect the performance, carcass traits, LL protein, ether extract or ash composition, and had no impact on beef colour compared with the diet containing soybean meal. Processed whole soybeans in the diet did not increase unsaturated fatty acids or conjugated linoleic acid in beef compared with a diet without soybean meal. Implications Up to 20% of ground or extruded soybean in feedlot beef cattle can be used as a replacement for soybean meal and corn.
Wear resistant aluminum alloy - B4C composites fabricated by rheo-casting and rolling process
Authors: Tie Di , Ren Haobo , Guan Renguo , Li Weirong , Li Hongchao , Wang Yuxiang , Zhang Junjia , Li Lei , Zhang Deliang , Chen Minfang
Published: April 2020

To reveal the formation and wear mechanisms of rheo-formed aluminum alloy - B4C composites, A356 alloy − 10 mass% B4C composite material was fabricated by semi-solid stirring rheo-casting and rolling process. The presence of Al3BC was confirmed by XRD analysis and hinted that chemical bonding formed at interfaces between aluminum matrix and B4C particles. Tensile test results demonstrated that addition of B4C facilitated improving the tensile strength by refining matrix and providing particle strengthening. Failure tests revealed that the failure type of the composite transferred from interfacial debonding to particle cracking with increasing wear load. The wear rate of the composite was approximately 48% lower than that of aluminum alloy under 60 N load. The friction coefficient of the composite under 60 N load also significantly decreased due to formation of B2O3and H3BO3as solid lubricants.
Conducting Clinical Studies in Community Health Settings: Challenges and Opportunities for Music Therapists
Authors: Lacson Clarissa , Myers-Coffman Katherine , Kesslick Amy , Krater Caitlin , Bradt Joke
Published: April 2020

In this article, music therapy researchers and clinicians share lessons learned through engaging in collaborative research with healthcare providers in community settings. Practical aspects of conducting research in community health settings are discussed, including consulting on-site music therapists, healthcare providers, and administrators in the earliest stages of research planning; integration of research team members with community healthcare providers; and strategies for successful study implementation. We present our experiences of challenges surrounding the aspects of study implementation, such as recruitment, obtaining consent, and collecting outcome data, as well as opportunities that have resulted from our work, such as increased visibility for music therapy services, collaboration on protocol refinement, and continuing music therapy services beyond the study. Throughout the article, we refer to two research studies that illustrate the collaborative process as well as offer practical examples of challenges and problem-solving.
Update on primary micronodular bilateral adrenocortical diseases
Authors: Maillet Michel , Bourdeau Isabelle , Lacroix André
Published: April 2020

Purpose of review

Primary micronodular bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasias (MiBAH) are rare challenging diseases. Important progress in understanding its pathophysiology and genetics occurred in the last two decades. We summarize those progress and recent data on investigation and therapy of MiBAH focusing on primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD).

Recent findings

Larger recent cohorts of PPNAD patients from various countries have confirmed their variable Cushing's syndrome phenotypes. Age of onset is earlier than other ACTH-independent Cushing's syndrome causes and the youngest case have now occurred at 15 months. Two retrospective studies identified an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures in PPNAD as compared with other Cushing's syndrome causes. The utility of 6-day oral dexamethasone test to produce a paradoxical increase of urinary-free cortisol in PPNAD was confirmed but the mean fold of increase was of 48%, less than previously suggested. Several new genetic variants of the PRKAR1A gene have been reported in PPNAD or Carney complex (CNC). Remission of Cushing's syndrome with unilateral adrenalectomy was reported in a few patients with PPNAD.

MiBAH, PPNAD and CNC are rare challenging diseases, but with combined expert clinical and genetic approaches a comprehensive investigation and prevention strategy can be offered to affected patients and families.
Pulmonary Cryptococcosis Accidentally Detected by 68Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Pan Qingqing , Luo Yaping , Cao Xinxin , Li Jian , Li Fang
Published: April 2020

68Ga-pentixafor PET/CT in a 66-year-old woman with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma showed extensive disease in bone and bone marrow. After 6 cycles of chemotherapy, the patient was in complete remission but complained of fever and coughing. Follow-up 68Ga-pentixafor PET/CT showed significantly reduced uptake in bone and bone marrow, consistent with her clinical outcome of myeloma. However, patches, nodules, and ground-grass opacities in bilateral lungs with moderate to intense uptake of 68Ga-pentixafor were noted. The histopathology of the biopsy for the pulmonary nodule confirmed pulmonary cryptococcosis.
Social loafing in group-based learning: student-created and instructor-created group perspectives
Authors: Rajaguru Rajesh , Narendran Roshni , Rajesh Gayathri
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Social loafing is a key inhibitor in group-based student learning and is a key challenge in administering group-based assessments in higher education. This study examines differences in the effects of antecedents of social loafing (disruptive behaviour, social disconnectedness and apathy) on work quality by comparing student-created and instructor-created groups. The study also investigates how group members' efforts to “pick up the slack” of social loafers in the two kinds of groups moderate the effect of antecedents of social loafing on work quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Post-graduate students from two different sessions of the Marketing Management unit participated in the study: 95 students from session 1 and 90 students from session 2. One session represented student-created groups and the other session represented instructor-created groups. Each group consisted of five students. Partial Least Square (PLS) estimation using SmartPLS was used to assess the direct and interaction effects.

Findings

The results indicate differences in the effects of the antecedents of social loafing such as apathy and disruptive behaviour on work quality for both student-created and instructor-created groups. Social disconnectedness was found to have no significant effect on work quality. Interestingly, the study found significant differences in the effects of “pick up the slack” on the work quality of student-created and instructor-created groups. Members of student-created groups who picked up the slack of social loafers improved the work quality for unit assessment. This effect was not significant for instructor-created groups.

Originality/value

Extant literature on social loafing predominantly focusses on its effect on students' work quality and educational achievement. This study contributes to the literature by investigating how the student-created and instructor-created group members' efforts to pick up the slack of social loafers moderate the effects of the antecedents of social loafing on work quality.
Comparing trends of perinatal mortality in two rural areas of Matlab, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Aminur , Austin Anne , Anwar Iqbal , Taneepanichskul Surasak
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Sixteen million adolescents give birth each year, constituting 11% of all births worldwide. Adverse adolescent pregnancy outcomes are well-documented. Available data on adolescent pregnancies have mainly relied on self-reported age and retrospective survey data, which might not capture adolescent births accurately. This paper reports on trends in adolescent pregnancy and associated adverse birth outcomes in Matlab, Bangladesh, using data from the Matlab Heath and Demographic System (HDSS) which precisely documents maternal age.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in the rural subdistrict of Matlab in Bangladesh. HDSS data were used to examine trends in adolescent motherhood (10–19 years) in the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr, b) service areas (ISA) and government service areas (GSA) between 2007 and 2015. A total of 4,996 adolescent mothers were included in the analysis. Chi-square testing and binary logistic regression were used to document adolescent pregnancy trends and the differences in and causes of perinatal death.

Findings

The fertility rate was 27 per 1000 adolescent mothers in ISA and 20 per 1000 adolescent mothers in GSA, during the 9 years of the study period. The adjusted odd of an adolescent mother having a perinatal death in ISA, relative to GSA was 0.69. Significant determinants of perinatal death among adolescent mothers included maternal education, paternal education, mother’s age at first birth, asset score and distance from the nearest health facility.

Originality/value

This paper documents the real trend of adolescent pregnancy by capturing the accurate age at pregnancy for the first time in Bangladesh.
Alcohol dependence and the psychological factors leading to a relapse: a hospital-based study in Vietnam
Authors: Van Trieu Nhat , Uthis Penpaktr , Suktrakul Sunisa
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To study the situation of alcohol relapse and to investigate the relationship between psychological factors and alcohol relapse in persons with alcohol dependence in Thai Nguyen hospitals, Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

A correlation study was conducted among 110 patients. Data were collected through structured interviews and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation coefficient (rs).

Findings

More than two-thirds of the participants were found to relapse more than once (X¯ = 2.04, SD = 0.86). Positive outcome expectancies, cravings, negative emotional states, and maladaptive coping were positively associated with relapse (rs = 0.550, 0.522, 0.497; p = 0.000 and rs = 0.217, p < 0.05, respectively). While, motivation to change with three subscales had a negative correlation to relapse including recognition (rs = −0.199, p < 0.05), ambivalence (rs = −0.331, p = 0.000), and taking steps (rs = −0.606, p = 0.000). Adaptive coping, self-efficacy, and social support were also found to be negatively correlated to relapse (rs = −0.535, −0.499, −0.338; p = 0.000, respectively). However, negative outcome expectancies (rs = −0.024, p = 0.805) and positive emotional states (rs = 0.081, p = 0.399) were not significantly related to relapse.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are significant implications for relapse prevention strategies. It suggests that the essential parts of relapse prevention are through: changing alcohol expectations, increase drinking refusal self-efficacy, coping skills training, enhancing motivation to change, managing alcohol craving and expanding social support.

Originality/value

This is the first study in Vietnam which investigated the relationship between psychological factors and alcohol relapse in individuals with alcohol dependence.
Safety and immunogenicity of Fc‐EDA, a recombinant ectodysplasin A1 replacement protein, in human subjects
Authors: Körber Iris , Klein Ophir D. , Morhart Patrick , Faschingbauer Florian , Grange Dorothy K. , Clarke Angus , Bodemer Christine , Maitz Silvia , Huttner Kenneth , Kirby Neil , Durand Caroline , Schneider Holm
Published: April 2020

In X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, the most frequent ectodermal dysplasia, an inherited deficiency of the signalling protein ectodysplasin A1 (EDA1) impairs the development of the skin and its appendages, various eccrine glands, and dentition. The severe hypohidrosis common to X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia patients may lead to life‐threatening hyperthermia, especially during hot weather or febrile illness. Fc‐EDA, an EDA1 replacement protein known to prevent the disease in newborn animals, was tested in 2 clinical trials (human adults and neonates) and additionally administered under compassionate use to 3 infants in utero. The data support the safety of Fc‐EDA and efficacy if applied prenatally. Anti‐drug antibodies were detected after intravenous administration in adult males and nonpregnant females, but not in pregnant women when Fc‐EDA was delivered intra‐amniotically. Most importantly, there was no detectable immune response to the investigational drug in neonates treated by intravenous infusions and in infants who had received Fc‐EDA in utero. In conclusion, the safety profile of this drug encourages further development of prenatal EDA1 replacement therapy.
Retrospective evaluation of implant‐supported full‐arch fixed dental prostheses after a mean follow‐up of 10 years
Authors: Chrcanovic Bruno R. , Kisch Jenö , Larsson Christel
Published: April 2020

Objective

To assess the outcomes of implant‐supported full‐arch fixed dental prostheses (ISFAFDPs) and the supporting implants.

Material and methods

This retrospective study included patients treated with ISFAFDPs at one specialist clinic. Implant/prosthesis failure and complications were the outcomes analyzed. Survival analysis methods were used.

Results

A total of 709 patients with 869 ISFAFDPs (4,797 implants) were included, with a mean ± SD follow‐up of 10.7 ± 7.2 years. A total of 353 implants and 62 prostheses failed. Estimated cumulative survival rates were as follows: 93.3% (95% CI 91.3, 95.3) after 10 years and 87.1% (95% CI 83.4, 90.8) after 20 years. Implants installed in bruxers, smokers, and maxilla had a lower survival than implants installed in non‐bruxers, non‐smokers, and mandible, respectively. A total of 415 ISFAFDPs (47.8%) presented technical complications, of which 67 (7.7%) presented only occurrences of loss/fracture of implant access hole sealing. Bruxism was a factor to exert a higher risk of screw loosening (HR 3.302; also in younger patients), screw fracture (HR 4.956), ceramic chipping/fracture (HR 5.685), and loss/fracture of acrylic teeth (HR 2.125; this last complication with higher risk also in men, in maxillae, and when the opposing jaw presented natural dentition or fixed prostheses). Patients with bruxism had a statistically significant higher risk of prosthesis failure than non‐bruxers (HR 3.276).

Conclusions

ISFAFDPs presented good long‐term prognosis. Failure of several supporting implants was the main reason for failure. The results of the present study strongly suggest that bruxism is an important contributor to implant and prosthesis failure, as well as to an increased prevalence of technical complications in ISFAFDPs.
Life Expectancy Is 350 Years Old
Authors: Ciecka James E.
Published: April 2020

Last year marked the 350th anniversary of the modern concept of life expectancy, which grew out of a correspondence between two brothers in 1669. Not only did life expectancy emerge as the first important nongambling application of the then new doctrine of chances, the correspondence also contained a probability‐based distinction between the median value of a random variable and its expected value, and it set the stage for the first correct formulation of pensions and life annuities. After 350 years, life expectancy remains a gauge of long‐term progress of a country, of subpopulations within a country, and as an international measure of development. On this round anniversary, it is worth remembering the original correspondence and its value today because of the importance of the concept of life expectancy itself and because of the mathematical structure that was used to define it.
Fitness, physical activity, sedentary time, inhibitory control, and neuroelectric activity in children with overweight or obesity: The ActiveBrains project
Authors: Mora‐Gonzalez Jose , Esteban‐Cornejo Irene , Solis‐Urra Patricio , Migueles Jairo H. , Cadenas‐Sanchez Cristina , Molina‐Garcia Pablo , Rodriguez‐Ayllon María , Hillman Charles H. , Catena Andrés , Pontifex Matthew B. , Ortega Francisco B.
Published: April 2020

Whereas numerous studies have investigated the relationship of cardiorespiratory fitness with inhibition and neuroelectric activity, the role of other physical fitness components and physical activity (PA) intensities in this relationship remain unclear, especially in children with obesity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association of physical fitness, PA, and sedentary time with inhibitory control and neuroelectric activity in children. Eighty‐four children (8‐11 years) with overweight or obesity performed the ALPHA battery to assess their physical fitness components (i.e., muscular strength, speed‐agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness). PA and sedentary time were assessed from hip and nondominant wrist‐worn accelerometers. Inhibitory control was evaluated using a flanker task, and expressed as reaction time (RT) and response accuracy. P3 amplitude and latency were recorded using electroencephalography. Higher speed‐agility and cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with shorter RT and larger P3 amplitude on incongruent trials. Higher speed‐agility was associated with shorter RT on congruent trials. Hip‐assessed moderate and moderate‐to‐vigorous PA were associated with longer P3 latency across trials, and vigorous PA with larger P3 amplitude on incongruent trials. Our results provide initial evidence suggesting that not only cardiorespiratory fitness, but also speed‐agility, are associated with inhibitory control and P3 amplitude, whereas no significant associations were observed for muscular strength. The associations between PA (moderate, vigorous and moderate to‐vigorous) and neuroelectric activity were accelerometer location‐dependent. Promoting PA programs that enhance the cardiorespiratory fitness and speed‐agility will contribute to better understanding whether such health improvements benefit inhibitory control in youth with overweight or obesity.
Identification of seven novel HLA‐C alleles
Authors: Senoussi Ornella , Dard Céline , Buhler Stéphane , Bardy Béatrice , Masson Dominique
Published: April 2020

Seven novel HLA‐C alleles were detected using two next‐generation sequencing technologies.
Binary Particle Swarm Optimization for Variables Selection Optimization in Taguchi’s T-Method
Authors: Harudin Nolia , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Ramlie Faizir , Muhtazaruddin Mohd Nabil , Che Razali Che Munira , Wan Muhamad Wan Zuki Azman
Published: April 2020

Prediction analysis has drawn significant interest in numerous field. Taguchi’s T-Method is a prediction tool that developed practically but not limited to small sample analysis. It was developed explicitly for multidimensional system prediction by relying on historical data as the baseline model and adapting the signal to noise ratio (SNR) as well as zero proportional concepts in strengthening its robustness. Orthogonal array (OA) in T-Method is a variable selection optimization technique in improving the prediction accuracy as well as help in eliminating variables that may deteriorate the overall performance. However, the limitation of OA in dealing with higher multidimensionality restraint the optimization accuracy. Binary particle swarm optimization used in this study helps to cater to the limitation of OA as well as optimizing the variable selection process to better prediction accuracy. The results show that if the historical data consist of samples with higher correlation of determination (R2) value for the model creation, the optimization process in reducing the number of variables would be much reliable and accurate.  Comparing between T-Method+OA and T-Method+BPSO in four different case study, it shows that T-Method+BPSO performing better with greater R2 and means relative error (MRE) value compared to T-Method+OA.
Autoimmune complications of immunotherapy: pathophysiology and management
Authors: Chan Karmela K , Bass Anne R
Published: April 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibodies that target inhibitory molecules, such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), or its ligand, programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1), and lead to immune activation in the tumor micro-environment. ICIs can induce durable treatment responses in patients with advanced cancers, but they are commonly associated with immune related adverse events (irAEs) such as rash, colitis, hepatitis, pneumonitis, and endocrine and musculoskeletal disorders. Almost all patients experience some form of irAE, but high grade irAEs occur in approximately half of those on combination therapy (eg, anti-CTLA-4 plus anti-PD-1), and up to one quarter receiving ICI monotherapy. Fatal irAEs occur in approximately 1.2% of patients on CTLA-4 blockade and 0.4% of patients receiving PD-1 or PD-L1 blockade, and case fatality rates are highest for myocarditis and myositis. IrAEs typically occur in the first three months after ICI initiation, but can occur as early as one day after the first dose to years after ICI initiation. The mainstay of treatment is with corticosteroids, but tumor necrosis factor inhibitors are commonly used for refractory irAEs. Although ICIs are generally discontinued when high grade irAEs occur, ICI discontinuation alone is rarely adequate to resolve irAEs. Consensus guidelines have been published to help guide management, but will likely be modified as our understanding of irAEs grows.
One-pot synthesis of benzopyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives catalyzed by LDHs@Propyl-ANDSA
Authors: Emami-Nori Alahyar , Karamshahi Zahra , Ghorbani-Vaghei Ramin
Published: April 2020

A general, effective, and operationally simple approach to highly substituted benzopyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine through the annulation of salicylaldehydes, malononitrile, and secondary amines is explained. The reaction is promoted by the Brønsted–Lowry acid, furnishing a variety of benzopyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives in synthetically useful yields.
Model-Based Weaning Tests for VA-ECLS Therapy
Authors: Habran Simon , Desaive Thomas , Morimont Philippe , Lambermont Bernard , Dauby Pierre C.
Published: April 2020

Venoarterial extracorporeal life support (VA-ECLS) is used in ICUs (intensive care units) for the most extreme presentations of acute and severe cardiogenic shock, and one of the main issues the clinicians have to deal with is the weaning from VA-ECLS. In this study, a patient-specific model of the cardiovascular system connected to a VA-ECLS is built to improve the understanding of this complex system. Pig experiments are performed to validate the model, and the results are quite promising since the mean difference between experimental data and simulation is smaller than 5% for all the hemodynamic quantities. It is also a major objective of this paper to provide a proof-of-concept analysis that model-based approaches could improve the weaning strategy for VA-ECLS therapy.
Interaction of Cyclooxygenase‐2 with Helicobacter pylori Induces Gastric Chronic Nonresolving Inflammation and the Formation of Syndrome of Internal Block of Static Blood in Helicobacter pylori‐Related Gastric Diseases
Authors: Dai Yun-kai , Zhang Yun-zhan , Li Dan-yan , Chen Xu , Gong Lin , Luo Qi , Lan Shao-yang , Chen Bin , Wu Jian-yu , Zhang Zi-jing , Huang Meng-xin , Ye Jin-tong , Chen Wei-jing , Li Ru-liu , Hu Ling
Published: April 2020

Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is an inducible enzyme stimulated by various inflammatory factors (IFs). Chronic gastritis is a classic model of “inflammation‐cancer transformation” and Helicobacter pylori‐related gastric diseases (HPGD) are specific ones of this model. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndromes could play a predictive role in gastric histopathological evolution. To search for early warning evidence about “inflammation‐cancer transformation,” this study is about to explore interaction of COX‐2 with Helicobacter pylori (Hp) in HPGD with different TCM syndromes. All included subjects underwent endoscopy and biopsy. Hp infection was detected by rapid urease test and methylene blue staining. Histopathological characteristics and COX‐2 expression in gastric mucosa (GM) were, respectively, observed by hematoxylin‐eosin and Elivision™ plus. SPSS 18.0 and Stata 11.0 statistical software packages were used for statistical analysis. Results of immunohistochemical staining in this study showed COX‐2 expression in Hp‐positive patients was stronger than that in Hp‐negative ones. Spearman’ analysis indicated that degrees of both Hp infection and COX‐2 expression were positively correlated with those of gastric inflammation and inflammatory activity. Compared with the relative normal group, both severe dysplasia group and gastric carcinoma group had more severe Hp infection and COX‐2 expression. Compared with the nonsyndrome, syndrome of internal block of static blood (IBSB) had higher scores in semiquantitative analysis of COX‐2 protein expression among TCM groups. Moreover, multivariate logistics regression analysis suggested that patients with Hp infection could increase the risk of IBSB. These results indicated that COX‐2 interacting with Hp could play an important role in transforming gastric chronic nonresolving inflammation into carcinoma in subjects with HPGD, as well as inducing the formation of IBSB. HPGD together with IBSB could be an early warning evidence for GM with histopathological evolution from benign to malignant.
Anaesthetic management of a large paraganglioma resection in a woman with isolated L-looped transposition of the great arteries: a case report
Authors: Lan Ling , Liu Penghao , Tian Yuan , Zhu Bo , Shen Le , Huang Yuguang
Published: April 2020

Background

Reports of anaesthetic management of paraganglioma resection in patients with isolated L-transposition of the great arteries (L-TGA) are rare. We focus on the preoperative evaluation, intraoperative management, and postoperative care of a frail patient with “physiologically corrected” L-TGA for paraganglioma resection.

Case presentation

We performed general anaesthesia for a 46-year-old patient with “physiologically corrected” L-TGA undergoing open large retroperitoneal paraganglioma resection. Although the preoperative medical therapy had attained its goals, the patient went through three periods of severe episodic hypertension and tachycardia as tumour manipulation released catecholamines. Goal-directed fluid therapy based on pulse pressure variation (PPV) and point-of-care transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) imaging enabled anaesthesiologists to make rapid judgments and to regulate blood pressure in a timely manner, thereby reducing the risk of heart failure caused by massive rapid fluid bolus therapy. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit because of intraoperative hemodynamic changes and significant blood loss. Despite transient myocardial injury (elevated troponin I), no lethal arrhythmia or complications occurred perioperatively, and the patient recovered well and was discharged 1 week later.

Conclusions

Goal-directed fluid therapy combined with the adoption of TEE could effectively guide fluid administration, which is helpful for anaesthesia management during operation. We recommend the routine use of TEE in such cases.
Sonographically determined kidney measurements are better able to predict histological changes and a low CKD-EPI eGFR when weighted towards cortical echogenicity
Authors: Araújo Nordeval Cavalcante , Rebelo Maria Alice Puga , da Silveira Rioja Lilimar , Suassuna José Hermógenes Rocco
Published: April 2020

Background

The renal length and cortical echogenicity have shown correlation to the renal function and histological changes in CKD patients. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of crude and composite ultrasound parameters based on kidney measurements and cortical echogenicity to detect renal dysfunction and histological changes.

Methods

Kidney sonography and biopsy were performed in 112 patients. Histological changes were graded in 0, < 25%, ≥25%, ≤50 and > 50% of the sample. Cortical echogenicity was graded relative to liver or spleen parenchyma: less than, equal to and higher than the liver/spleen. Kidney length, the kidney length/body height ratio (KL/H) and cortical thickness were obtained. Each parameter was multiplied by a cortical echogenicity-weighting arbitrary factor: 1.17, 1 or 0.69 for cortex less than, equal to or higher than the liver, respectively. The GFR was estimated using the CKD-EPI formula. The accuracy of crude and composite parameters to identify patients with a high creatinine, a low GFR and histological changes were evaluated.

Results

The discriminative power of kidney length and cortical thickness for renal dysfunction and histological changes was improved after weighting for cortical echogenicity. However, the best discriminative was the kidney length to height ratio weighted towards renal echogenicity (w-KL/H).

Conclusion

w-KL/H exceeded the other parameters as a marker of renal impairment and histological changes in CKD. Calculation of the w-KL/H index may be of help as a non-invasive tool to identify patients with significant renal disease and might be useful to guide therapeutic decisions.
Medical, pharmacy and nursing students in the Baltic countries: interactions with the pharmaceutical and medical device industries
Authors: Salmane-Kulikovska Ieva , Poplavska Elita , Mezinska Signe , Dumpe Vita , Dauvarte Helena , Lazdina Lina , Marchockij Aleksandr , Varzinskas Karolis , Mintzes Barbara J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Interactions between pharmaceutical and medical device industries and students can lead to commercial influences on educational messages, with a potential to bias future treatment choice. This is the first study in the Baltic countries describing exposure and attitudes of medical, pharmacy and nursing students towards cooperation with industry.

Methods

A cross-sectional on-line survey of current medical, pharmacy and nursing students (n = 918) in three Baltic countries was carried out.

Results

We found that most students participate in events organized or sponsored by industry and accept a range of gifts and benefits. Students in the Baltic countries consider cooperation with industry important; at the same time, most do not feel that they have sufficient training on how to ethically interact with pharmaceutical and medical device companies and believe that these interactions can influence their prescribing or dispensing patterns. There is a tendency to rationalize cooperation with industry by referring to the current economic situation and patient benefits. Pharmacy students have higher rates of participation and they accept gifts and other benefits more often than nursing or medical students; therefore, they are likely to be more vulnerable to potential industry influence.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the need to include topics on ethics and conflicts of interests in cooperation with industry in curriculum of health care students in Baltic countries. Without proper training, students continue to be at risk to industry influence and may develop habits for their further practice differing from evidence-based practice in prescribing and dispensing of medicines, as well as use of medical devices.
Effect of routine seasonal malaria chemoprevention on malaria trends in children under 5 years in Dangassa, Mali
Authors: Konaté Drissa , Diawara Sory I. , Touré Mahamoudou , Diakité Seidina A. S. , Guindo Agnès , Traoré Karim , Diarra Ayouba , Keita Bourama , Thiam Sibe , Keita Moussa , Sissoko Ibrahim , Sogoba Nafomon , Traoré Sékou F. , Krogtad Donald J. , Doumbia Seydou , Diakité Mahamadou
Published: April 2020

Background

Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) is a new strategy to prevent malaria in children under 5 years old. It has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2012 in malaria-endemic areas with seasonal transmission. This study aimed to assess the changes in malaria indicators through two consecutive years of SMC routine implementation in children under 5 years old in Dangassa, where malaria is endemic with a long and high transmission season.

Methods

From 2012 to 2016, a cohort study was conducted in Dangassa village. The study team based in the village followed all malaria clinical cases in children under 5 years old at the community health centre. During the study, SMC was routinely implemented in collaboration with the National Malaria Control Programme. The Cox regression model was used in order to compare malaria risk during the study.

Results

The Cox regression model showed a significant reduction in malaria clinical incidence, both in 2015 (HR = 0.27 (0.18–0.40), 95% CI) and in 2016 (HR = 0.23 (0.15–0.35), 95% CI) of SMC implementation compared to October 2013. Gametocyte and fever prevalence was lower between September and October during SMC implementation (2015 and 2016) compared to the same period before SMC implementation (2013–2014). A slight increase of malaria incidence was observed in December at the end of SMC implementation.

Conclusion

SMC has significantly reduced both malaria incidence and gametocyte prevalence and improved haemoglobin levels in children under 5 years old after 2 years of routine implementation.
The effects of microchipping C57BL/6N mice on standard phenotyping tests
Authors: Bains R.S. , Cater H.L. , Stewart M. , Scudamore C.L. , Wells S.E.
Published: April 2020

The C57BL/6N inbred lines of mice are widely used in genetic research. They are particularly favoured in large scale studies such as the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC), where C57BL/6N mice are genetically altered to generate a collection of null alleles (currently more than 8500 null alleles have been generated). In this project, mice carrying null alleles are subjected to a pipeline of broad-based phenotyping tests to produce wide ranging phenotyping data on each model. We have previously described the development of a Home Cage Analysis system that automatically tracks the activity of group housed mice from a microchip inserted in the groin. This platform allows assessment of multiple biologically relevant phenotypes over long periods of time without experimenter interference, and therefore is particularly suited for high through-put studies. To investigate the impact of microchips on other tests carried out in the IMPC pipeline, we inserted microchips in 12 male and 12 female C57BL/6Ntac mice at seven weeks of age. Starting at nine weeks of age these mice underwent standard phenotyping tests, concurrently with 20 unchipped C57BL/6Ntac mice (10 females, 10 males). Tissues from a subset of the microchipped mice (six males and six females), chosen at random, were also sent for histopathological examination at the end of the phenotyping pipeline. No significant impact of insertion of microchip was observed in any of the phenotyping tests apart from bone mineral density measurement at DEXA due to the nature of the microchip. We therefore recommend that the microchip be inserted during the DEXA procedure, after the measurement is taken but before the mouse has recovered from the anaesthetic. This would avoid multiple anaesthetic exposures and prevent the potential variability in DEXA analysis output.
A concept of a new AFIS tool for automated data record
Authors: Nosek Jakub , Lukeš Petr
Published: April 2020

AFIS officers are mandated by the Czech Annex L11, Appendix N regulation to record specified information about all landings and take-offs at AFIS airports. This task is currently being done manually by the officers. The paper describes a possible usage of a software tool which could help Aerodrome Flight Information Service officers to perform their duties more efficiently. It is focused on the solution to, in full measure, record this mandatory information automatically without the officers’ intervention. The result of the study is a set of information that could be recorded automatically with suggested approach of how this can be performed.
Tratamento endodôntico de canino superior birradicular: relato de caso
Authors: Castro-Núñez Gabriela Mariana , Kuga Milton Carlos , Escalante-Otárola Wilfredo Gustavo
Published: April 2020

O presente artigo descreve um caso incomum de canino superior direito com duas raízes. Esse é o quarto caso relatado na literatura. Paciente do sexo feminino, 66 anos de idade, foi encaminhada para tratamento endodôntico do dente #13. A avaliação clínica mostrou que o dente #13 não apresentava resposta após o teste de vitalidade. Radiografias foram realizadas e revelaram que o dente #13 apresentava duas raízes. Em seguida, a paciente foi submetida a tratamento endodôntico. Esse relato de caso é relevante porque descreve uma variação anatômica rara, mas que pode se apresentar na clínica. Por tal motivo, o dentista precisa ter domínio da anatomia normal dos dentes para realizar corretamente o tratamento endodôntico, assim como conhecer as possíveis variações anatômicas, e analisar minuciosamente a radiografia de diagnóstico para ter uma noção individualizada da anatomia do dente a tratar.
Avaliação da soroprevalência dos vírus das hepatites B e C em cirurgiões-dentistas.
Authors: Leite Segundo Airton , Nogueira Emerson Filipe , Carvalho Patrícia Élida , Soares Maria Sueli
Published: April 2020

Objetivo: o presente estudo objetivou determinar a soroprevalência das hepatites B e C em cirurgiões-dentistas na cidade de Caruaru (Pernambuco, Brasil). Métodos: a amostra foi composta por 80 profissionais que foram submetidos à coleta de sangue para realização de exames sorológicos (HBsAg e anti-VHC) para as hepatites B e C, como também foi realizada entrevista, abordando o tempo de formado, histórico de acidentes com material perfurocortante, e vacinação contra hepatite B. Os dados obtidos foram processados no programa Microsoft EXCEL® e realizada análise descritiva. Resultados: com relação à soroprevalência, foram confirmados dois casos de hepatite B e um caso de hepatite C, representando prevalência de 2,5% e 1,25%, respectivamente. A média de tempo de formado foi de 17,35 anos. Cinquenta e dois por cento dos profissionais relataram acidente com material perfurocortante. Os resultados revelaram que 75% dos entrevistados apresentaram a vacinação completa contra a hepatite B. Conclusão: conclui-se que os cirurgiões-dentistas da cidade de Caruaru apresentaram baixa prevalência de infecção pelos vírus das hepatites B e C e que 1⁄4 dos profissionais não apresentaram vacinação contra hepatite B regular. Palavras-chave: Hepatite. Vírus da hepatite. Odontólogos. Riscos ocupacionais.
Tratamento conservador de ameloblastoma em mandíbula: relato de caso
Authors: Gonçalves Camila , Campos Felipe Eduardo , Lehman Luiz Felipe , Chaves Roberta Rayra , Lima Flávia , De Castro Wagner
Published: April 2020

Os ameloblastomas são neoplasias odontogênicas benignas de crescimento lento, localmente invasivas, que podem atingir proporções variadas de acordo com o seu tempo de evolução. O tratamento desses tumores é motivo de controvérsia entre os cirurgiões. O presente artigo relata o caso de um paciente acometido por ameloblastoma em mandíbula, que foi tratado através de ressecção com margem de segurança conservadora e terapias coadjuvantes. Após quatro anos de acompanhamento sem recidiva, foi realizada a reconstrução do defeito cirúrgico com enxerto livre autógeno de crista ilíaca e reabilitação dentária através de prótese implantossuportada. Após nove anos de acompanhamento, o paciente encontrava se sem sinais de recidiva e sem alterações estéticas ou funcionais no sítio do tumor.
In a world of changes: using a new visual research method for exploring employees’ attitudes towards the organizations they work in
Authors: Haller-Hayon Orit
Published: April 2020

In the age of globalization, employees are required to adapt themselves to changes inthe working world. Employees change their working placesquite often; therefore, they have less stability in the organizations they work in. This situation might influence their general attitudes toward the organizations and particularly their personal perceptions about their organizational positions. In turn,this affects their motivation, loyalty, health etc. The aim:To present three studies which were carried out in three distinct periods of time regarding Israeli employees’ perceptions of their organizational positions, incorporating a new visual method developed by the author.The population included technology managers, registered hospital nurses and educators. The common research methods (questionnaires and interviews) facilitate the examination of visible attitudes but are less effective for those which are hidden. The visual method was based on the drawing of a fruit tree, and suggested an indirect way of exploring the participants’ attitudes. Results and conclusion: The participants’ interpretations raised a diversity of themes about their organizational positions, depending on the type of organization and their stability in the workplace. This enabledthe gaining of a deep level of knowledgeaboutthe employees’ attitudes in an indirect way.