bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heparin-induced bleeding treatment in microsurgery
Authors: Mendoza-Aceves Rodrigo A. , Banegas-Ruiz Rodrigo , Gómez-Mendoza Francisco Fabián , Román-Hernández Rigoberto , Porras-Méndez Christian , Valderrama-Treviño Alan I. , Vejar-Alba Ismael , Barrera-Mera Baltazar
Published: September 2019

Microsurgery is associated with prolonged surgical times with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and myocardial infarction. The use of antithrombotic means is a commonly employed tactic to prevent vascular thrombosis after microvascular free flap surgery. Flap loss is a devastating complication of microsurgical procedures that leads to detrimental outcomes. A 32-year-old male patient has a ruptured calcaneal tendon. He underwent 5 surgical cleanings with multiple failed sequential attempts at wound closure. Traumatology department in its microsurgery division where it is proposed to perform neo-tendon with graft of palmaris longus of the right thoracic extemity and radial antebrachial microvascular flap. The neo tendon was performed in addition to the micro surgical coverage with the radial antebrachial flap.When having vascular control with micro-clamps, 6000 U of unfractionated heparin was initiated, approximately 20 minutes after the end of the microvascular anastomosis, there was incoercible bleeding, which is initially treated with spray fibrin. Continued bleeding after 3 hours, so it was decided to reverse the effect of heparin with transfusion of fresh frozen plasma, 10 mg of vitamin K and fibrinogen. The effect of heparin was reversed without having thrombotic complications of microvascular anastomoses. The flap was not reexplored since they showed no signs of vascular compromise. If anticoagulants have been used and an incoercible hemorrhage is found, the effect of heparin must be reversed. In the transfer of tissues with microsurgery, the recommended and safe anticoagulation are prophylactic doses and not therapeutic doses.
Synthesis of Novel Chalcone Derivatives by Organic Catalysis
Authors: Li Junlong , Zhuang Ruocan , Qian Yinan
Published: September 2019

Chalcone compounds have a wide range of biological activities. In this paper, nine kinds of novel chalcone compounds were synthesized by using transacrylone derivatives and anthrone as raw materials. The eﬀects of diﬀerent catalysts and solvents on the yield of the products were investigated. The optimal catalyst was DABCO. The optimum solvent was dichloromethane with the highest yield of 71.6%. On this basis, the eﬀect of the co-catalyst on the yield was investigated. The yield was increased to 89.9%.
A New Antibacterial Agent: Propolis
Authors: şaatçi Özge İn , Turan Necla Yaman
Published: September 2019

As textile products are being used widely in Daily life, their antibacterial characteristics gain more importance. The necessity of antibacterial agents used due to the importance given to today's health and alternative products provided by natural routes has also revealed the necessity of this context. This work focuses on the usage of propolis as an antibacterial agent. On the other hand, it aims to gather information on the use of propolis for the purpose of giving antibacterial properties to textile materials. 
DISKURSOSFERA PECHATNYKH SMI: IGRA NA VYZHIVANIE
Authors: Kharkovskaya A. A.
Published: September 2019

The review is devoted to the analysis of the present monograph by E.O. Mendzheritskaya dealing with the description of both discourse formation factors and discursive markers correlating with the genre, national-cultural and typological features of the English-language printed mass-media  which includes the commonly accepted examples of journalistic communication  accompanied by  tabloids and popular glossy publications analysis. A thorough approach to the analysis of factual material that is large in size and apropriately structured in relation to genre is provided in the monograph . Moreover  this analysis is based on  solid  theoretical issues (the bibliographic list includes 454 book titles by Russian and foreign authors specializing in the scientific interpretation of mass media technologies on the one hand, and analysis of authentic newspaper materials covering a wide range of different topics about dynamics and transformations of the national cultural life of the modern English and American society. It is a valid scientific interpretation of modern phenomena and facts supported by carefully selected linguistic illustrations placed in the Appendices together with very interesting author ‘s comments that provide the peer-reviewed work by  E.O. Mendzheritskaya a status of a serious monographic research project devoted to  modern English mass-media products studies. In view of the above said it’s only fair to mention that  the monograph by .O.Mendzheritskaya can be applied both in discussing the printed products debatable issues  and in teaching the basics of mass-media communication in the epoch of globalization.
LEGAL PARAMETERS OF PUBLIC EXAMINATION OF LEGAL ACTS
Authors: Pechegina Yu. S.
Published: September 2019

This article focuses on the practice of use of the institute of public examination, which ensureimplementation of the constitutional law on the participation of citizens in managing the affairs of state set out in the part 1 of the Article 32 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, analyses the basic problems of its legislative regulation. The article stated the main objective, theoretical rationale for functions of public examination as a mechanism of social control, the characteristic of the subjects and objects of public expert examination. Ensuring and increasing the involvement of population in order to improve the enforcement and public examination is an essential element in the development of civil society.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTI-CORRUPTION ACTIVITIES IN THE PENAL SYSTEM, AS A MEANS OF OVERLAPPING OF CHANNELS OF DELIVERY TO CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES OF PROHIBITED ITEMS
Authors: Gorban D. V. , Efremova O. S.
Published: September 2019

The article presents a comprehensive study of effectiveness of anti-corruption activities in the penal system as a means of blocking the channels of delivery to correctional institutions, as well as the detention centers of prohibited items. This topic is of some relevance, and also has a sign of scientific novelty due to the lack of detailed development in the scientific literature. Corruption as a negative social phenomenon affects all spheres of society, including the penal system. One of the manifestations of corruption crime in the penitentiary system is the delivery of prohibited items and things to the regime territory by the staff of the correctional institution or the remand prison and their transfer to the convicted, suspects, accused. This direction of corruption crime has a very negative impact on the operational situation in the correctional institution, the detention center and therefore requires the adoption of serious preventive measures. On the basis of the research carried out a number of organizational and legal measures aimed at the suppression of corruption acts on the part of the staff of the penal system associated with the delivery of prohibited items and things on the territory of correctional institutions, as well as detention centers.
ON SOME ASPECTS OF JUDICIAL DISCRETION IN THE PROCESS OF COMPENSATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVE'S FEES
Authors: Kornilova A. V.
Published: September 2019

This article is about the main problems of implementation of judicial discretion in the process ofcompensation to the representative's fees. The urgency of the issue is due to the modernization of the civil process in Russia. This article attempts to uncover the essence of the concept of judicial discretion in the compensation to the representative's fees, and also presents the main directions of law enforcementpractice on the issue. The author has formed the main proposals for limiting the willful discretion. As a research task, the author identified an attempt to assess the criteria for reasonableness of representational expenses that exist in judicial practice. Proceeding from the received results of scientific work, the author comes to a conclusion that the compensation to the representative's fees by the court should be made taking into account the criteria relating to the essence of the case and the personality of the representative. At the same time the author emphasizes need of more detailed studying of the specified perspective.
CRIMINAL PROCEDURE LAW-ENFORCEMENT ACTS
Authors: Muravev K. V.
Published: September 2019

Procedural activity is non-uniform, is subdivided into adoption of proceeding decisions and implementation of criminal procedure actions. It is proved that proceeding decisions and actions of competent persons of criminal proceedings and also written documents certifying them can be called as criminal procedure acts. Criminal proceedings represent activities for the use of norms of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation, are admissible to call the relevant procedural acts law-enforcement. A number of the intermediate and main decisions accepted in criminal proceedings are as well acts of application of the criminal law if fixing of substantive conditions for adoption of the relevant proceeding decisions in blanket norm of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation with reference to a disposition or the sanction of criminal norm or through use of the general wording of the criminal law takes place and also if in the act a conclusion about the taken place specification of the criminal relation is made out.
Causes and mechanisms of peritoneal fibrosis and possible application of NF-κB inhibitor for prevention and treatment
Authors: Bręborowicz Andrzej , Umezawa Kazuo
Published: September 2019

Peritoneal dialysis is an established form of the renal replacement therapy in patients with end stage renal failure. Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis developed by Moncrief and Popovich in 1975 was a revolutionary event, and contributed much to wide application of that form of treatment in uremic patients. On the other hand, the weak point of peritoneal dialysis is relatively short viability of the peritoneum as the dialysis membrane. Two main peritoneal pathologies are observed in patients treated with that form of renal replacement therapy: neovascularization of the membrane what causes increased peritoneal permeability to osmotic solutes and ultrafiltration failure, and fibrosis which results also in ultrafiltration failure due to its decreased hydraulic conductivity and reduced permeability to uremic toxins. Meanwhile, an NF-κB inhibitor DHMEQ was discovered in 2000 and has been successfully used to suppress various inflammatory and neoplastic disease models. NF-κB is likely to be involved in the mechanism of peritoneal inflammation and fibrosis. We have studied whether DHMEQ would inhibit cellular model of peritoneal inflammation and fibrosis. It inhibited inflammatory cytokine and collagen productions in primary culture of human peritoneal mesothelial cells, and intraperitoneal administration of NF-κB inhibitors would be useful to suppress peritoneal fibrosis.
Retrospective and Prospective Look at Aflatoxin Research and Development from a Practical Standpoint
Authors: Benkerroum Noreddine
Published: September 2019

Among the array of structurally and toxicologically diverse mycotoxins, aflatoxins have attracted the most interest of scientific research due to their high toxicity and incidence in foods and feeds. Despite the undeniable progress made in various aspects related to aflatoxins, the ultimate goal consisting of reducing the associated public health risks worldwide is far from being reached due to multiplicity of social, political, economic, geographic, climatic, and development factors. However, a reasonable degree of health protection is attained in industrialized countries owing to their scientific, administrative, and financial capacities allowing them to use high-tech agricultural management systems. Less fortunate situation exists in equatorial and sub-equatorial developing countries mainly practicing traditional agriculture managed by smallholders for subsistence, and where the climate is suitable for mould growth and aflatoxin production. A situation that worsens by the climatic change being increasingly suitable for aflatoxigenic mold growth and toxin production. Accordingly, it is difficult to harmonize the regulatory standards of aflatoxins worldwide, which prevents agri-foods of developing countries from access to the market of industrialized countries. To tackle the multi-facetted aflatoxin problems, actions should be taken collectively by the international community involving scientific research, technological and social development, environment protection, awareness promotion, etc. International cooperation should foster technology transfer and exchange of pertinent technical information. This review presents the main historical discoveries leading to our present knowledge on aflatoxins and the challenges that should be addressed presently and in the future at various levels to ensure higher health protection for everybody. In short, it aims to elucidate where we come from and where we should go in terms of aflatoxin research/development.
Reasons for Failed trials of Disease-modifying Treatments for Alzheimer Disease and their Contribution in Recent Research
Authors: Yiannopoulou Konstantina G. , Anastasiou Aikaterini I. , Zachariou Venetia , Pelidou SH
Published: September 2019

Despite all scientific efforts and many protracted and expensive clinical trials, no new drug has been approved by FDA for treatment of Alzheimer disease (AD) since 2003. Indeed, more than 200 investigational programs have failed or have been abandoned in the last decade. The most probable explanations for failures of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) for AD may include late initiation of treatments during the course of AD development, inappropriate drug dosages, erroneous selection of treatment targets, and mainly an inadequate understanding of the complex pathophysiology of AD, which may necessitate combination treatments rather than monotherapy. Clinical trials’ methodological issues have also been criticized. Current drug-development research for AD is aimed to overcome these drawbacks. Preclinical and prodromal AD populations, as well as traditionally investigated populations representing all the clinical stages of AD, are included in recent trials. Systematic use of biomarkers in staging preclinical and prodromal AD and of a single primary outcome in trials of prodromal AD are regularly integrated. The application of amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration biomarkers, including new biomarkers—such as Tau positron emission tomography, neurofilament light chain (blood and CSF biomarker of axonal degeneration) and neurogranin (CSF biomarker of synaptic functioning)—to clinical trials allows more precise staging of AD. Additionally, use of the Bayesian statistics, modifiable clinical trial designs, and clinical trial simulators enrich the trial methodology. Besides, combination therapy regimens are currently assessed in clinical trials. The abovementioned diagnostic and statistical advances, which have been recently integrated in clinical trials, are consequential to the recent failures of studies of disease-modifying treatments. Their experiential rather than theoretical origins may better equip potentially successful drug-development strategies.
The Relationship between Vitamin D Status and Rotator Cuff Muscle Strength in Professional Volleyball Athletes
Authors: Kim Do Kyung , Park Geon , Kuo Liang-Tseng , Park Won hah
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to examine the vitamin D status of professional volleyball athletes and to determine its correlation with shoulder muscle strength. We finally included 52 healthy male professional volleyball players (23.2 ± 4.5 years), who were categorized by vitamin D status (<20 ng/mL: deficiency, 20-30 ng/mL: insufficiency, and >30 ng/mL: sufficiency). We examined the strength of the internal rotator (IR) and external rotator (ER) muscles of the shoulder by using isokinetic dynamometer. Fourteen players (26.9%) had vitamin D deficiency, 24 players (46.2%) were vitamin D insufficient, and 14 players (26.9%) were vitamin D sufficient. There was no significant correlation between the vitamin D level and shoulder muscle strength at 60°/s (IR, r = 0.159, p = 0.26; ER, r = 0.245, p = 0.08), and at 180°/s (IR, r = - 0.093, p = 0.51; ER, r = - 0.037, p = 0.79). Moreover, the isokinetic shoulder strengths were not significantly different across the three groups in all settings. In conclusion, vitamin D insufficiency was common in elite volleyball players. Though not being associated with isokinetic muscle weakness, vitamin D should be regularly monitored and supplemented in young elite athletes, considering its importance on musculoskeletal health.
Nanoparticle Behaviour in An Urban Street Canyon at Different Heights and Implications on Indoor Respiratory Doses
Authors: Manigrasso Maurizio , Protano Carmela , Vitali Matteo , Avino Pasquale
Published: September 2019

The amount of outdoor particles that indoor environments receive depends on the particle infiltration factors (Fin), peculiar of each environment, and on the outdoor aerosol concentrations and size distributions. The respiratory doses received, while residing indoor, will change accordingly. This study aims to ascertain to what extent such doses are affected by the vertical distance from the traffic sources. Particle number size distributions have been simultaneously measured at street level and at about 20 m height in a street canyon in downtown Rome. The same Fin have been adopted to estimate indoor aerosol concentrations, due to the infiltration of outdoor particles and then the relevant daily respiratory doses. Aerosol concentrations at ground floor were more than double than at 20 m height and richer in ultrafine particles. Thus, although aerosol infiltration efficiency was on average higher at 20 m height than at ground floor, particles more abundantly infiltrated at ground level. On a daily basis, this involved a 2.5-fold higher dose at ground level than at 20 m height. At both levels, such doses were greater than those estimated over the period of activity of some indoor aerosol sources, therefore they represent an important contribution to the total daily dose.
Simulation of Air Puff Tonometry Test Using Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) Deforming Mesh for Corneal Material Characterisation
Authors: Maklad Osama , Eliasy Ashkan , Chen Kai-Jung , Theofilis Vassilios , Elsheikh Ahmed
Published: September 2019

Purpose: To improve numerical simulation of the non-contact tonometry test by using Arbitrary Eulerian-Lagrangian deforming mesh in the coupling between computational fluid dynamics model of an air jet and finite element model of the human eye. Methods: Computational fluid dynamics model simulated impingement of the air puff and consisted of 25920 wedge6 elements and employed Spallart-Allmaras model to simulate capture turbulence of the air jet. The time span of the jet wais 30 ms and maximum Reynolds number
An Integrated Method To Evaluate Formation Damage Resulting from Water and Alkali Sensitivity in Dongping Bedrock Reservoir
Authors: Zhang Lufeng , Zhou Fujian , Pournik Maysam , Liang Tianbo , Wang Jin , Wang Yuechun
Published: September 2019

Dongping Field with low porosity and permeability, located in the Qaidam Basin, is the largest bedrock reservoir in China. Because of its high content of clay minerals and poor physical properties, the reservoir tends to suffer from formation damage caused by water or alkali sensitivity, which significantly affects production. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the formation-damage mechanisms for reservoir protection and efficient development. In this paper, we propose a new method that integrates pressure-transmission tests (PTTs) with a fixed-point scanning electron microscope (SEM) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to investigate mechanisms of formation damage. From the macroscopic perspective, PTT, a time-saving and accurate method of measuring permeability for tight rocks, is applied to evaluate the permeability-damage degree of core samples. From the microscopic perspective, the change of pore structure for a specific region and the variation of the fluid volume in the core sample before and after damage are obtained by fixed-point SEM and NMR experiments, respectively. In water-sensitivity damage experiments, the results of PTT show that the permeability-damage rate is approximately 60%, demonstrating that the damage degree of water sensitivity is moderate to severe. The results of the fixed-point SEM demonstrate that the pore sizes suffer from obvious reduction as a result of water-sensitivity damage. NMR experiments demonstrate that the main damage mechanisms vary, depending on the pore sizes. Small pores [0.1 milliseconds ≤ transverse relaxation time (T2) < 10 milliseconds] are damaged by swelling of mixed-layer illite/smectite, and the large pores (10 milliseconds ≤ T2 <100 milliseconds) suffer from the combined damage of swelling of smectite and migration of illite. Using a similar method, the alkali-sensitivity damage test demonstrates that there is no alkali-sensitivity damage in target reservoirs. This novel integrated method is an efficient means to investigate the formation-damage mechanisms for the Dongping bedrock reservoir from comprehensive perspectives. In addition, this method can be widely applied to evaluate formation damage for tight low-permeability reservoirs.
The precursor for nerve growth factor (proNGF) is not a serum or biopsy-rinse biomarker for thyroid cancer diagnosis
Authors: Rowe Christopher W , Faulkner Sam , Paul Jonathan W , Tolosa Jorge M , Gedye Craig , Bendinelli Cino , Wynne Katie , McGrath Shaun , Attia John , Smith Roger , Hondermarck Hubert
Published: September 2019

Background: Nerves and neurotrophic growth factors are emerging promoters of cancer growth. The precursor for Nerve Growth Factor (proNGF) is overexpressed in thyroid cancer, but its potential role as a clinical biomarker has not been reported. Here we have examined the value of proNGF as a serum and biopsy-rinse biomarker for thyroid cancer diagnosis. Methods: Patients presenting for thyroid surgery or biopsy were enrolled in separate cohorts examining serum (n=204, including 46 cases of thyroid cancer) and biopsy-rinse specimens (n=188, including 26 cases of thyroid cancer). ProNGF levels in clinical samples were analysed by ELISA. Multivariate statistical analyses testing for potential confounders were used to compare proNGF levels with clinicopathological parameters. Results: ProNGF was not detected in the majority of serum samples 176/204 (86%) and the detection of proNGF was not associated with thyroid cancer diagnosis. In the few cases where proNGF was detected in the serum, thyroidectomy did not affect proNGF concentration, demonstrating that the thyroid was not the source of serum proNGF. Intringuingly, an association between hyperthyroidism and serum proNGF was observed (OR 3.3, 95%CI 1.6-8.7 p=0.02). In biopsy-rinse, proNGF was detected in 73/188 (39%) cases, with no association between proNGF and thyroid cancer. However, a significant positive association between follicular lesions and biopsy-rinse proNGF was found (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2-8.7, p=0.02). Conclusions: ProNGF levels in serum and biopsy-rinse are not increased in thyroid cancer and therefore proNGF is not a clinical biomarker for this condition.
A pilot trial on lithium disilicate partial crowns using a novel prosthodontic Functional Index for Teeth (FIT)
Authors: Cagidiaco Edoardo Ferrari , Grandini Simone , Goracci Cecilia , Joda Tim
Published: September 2019

Background

Lithium disilicate is now a well accepted material for indirect restorations. The aim of this trial was to evaluate two lithium disilicate systems using a novel prosthodontic Functional Index for Teeth (FIT).Methods

Partial adhesive crowns on natural abutment posterior teeth were made on sixty patients (clinicaltrial.gov # NCT 01835821). Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 e.max press (Ivoclar), Group 2 LiSi press (GC Co.). The restorations were followed-up for 3 years. The FIT is composed of seven variables (Interproximal, Occlusion, Design, Mucosa, Bone, Biology and Margins), each of them to be evaluated using a 0-1-2 scoring scheme. The Mann-Whitney ‘U’ test was applied. The level of significance was set at p<0,05.Results

Survival rate was 100%, without any biological or technical complication. No statistically significant difference emerged between the two groups in any of the assessed variables (p>0.05).Conclusions

The results showed that it is possible to evaluate the clinical performance of partial crowns using FIT. The FIT proved to be an effective tool to foresee the possible risk of failures and to monitor the performance of the restorations at each recall. The two lithium dislocate materials showed same results after 3 years of clinical service.
Trauma induced tissue survival in vitro with a muscle-biomaterial based osteogenic organoid system: a proof of concept study
Authors: He Tao , Hausdorf Jörg , Chevalier Yan , Klar Roland Manfred
Published: September 2019

Background: The translation from animal research into the clinical environment remains problematic, as animal systems do not adequately replicate the human in vivo environment. Bioreactors have emerged as a good alternative that can reproduce part of the human in vivo processes at an in vitro level. Bone tissue-engineering bioreactors, however, still are cell based with tissue based in vitro systems remaining poorly investigated. As such, the present pilot study explored the tissue behavior and cell survival capability within a new in vitro skeletal muscle tissue-based biomaterial organoid bioreactor system to maximize future bone tissue engineering prospects. Results: Three dimensional printed β-tricalcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite devices were either wrapped in a sheet of rat muscle tissue or first implanted in a heterotopic muscle pouch that was then excised and cultured in vitro for up to 30 days. Devices wrapped in muscle tissue showed cell death by day 15. Contrarily, devices in muscle pouches showed angiogenic and limited osteogenic gene expression tendencies with consistent TGF-ß1, COL4A1, VEGF-A, RUNX-2, and BMP-2 upregulation, respectively. Histologically, muscle tissue degradation and fibrin release was seen being absorbed by devices acting possibly as a support for new tissue formation in the bioceramic scaffold that supports progenitor stem cell osteogenic differentiation.Conclusions: These results therefore demonstrate that the skeletal muscle pouch-based biomaterial culturing system can support tissue survival over a prolonged culture period and represents a novel organoid tissue model that with further adjustments could generate bone tissue for direct clinical transplantations.
Determinants of precancerous cervical lesion among women screened for cervical cancer in south Ethiopia: A case-control study
Authors: Beyene Tesfalidet Tekelab , Akibu Mohammed , Bekele Henok , Seyoum Wengelawit
Published: September 2019

Background Nearly 90% of deaths from cervical cancer occurred in low resource setting. In Ethiopia the magnitude of cervical cancer was 17%. Precancerous cervical lesions may progress to cervical cancer. Early screening and treatment of precancerous cervical lesions is a cost effective way to avert the growth of cervical cancer. However, there is a limited research on risk factors of precancerous cervical lesions in Ethiopia. Therefore the aim of this study was to identify determinants of precancerous cervical lesions in south Ethiopia.Method A facility based case-control study was carried out in five health facilities in south Ethiopia between 8 May to 28 September 2018. Interviewer administered questionnaires were used to collect data from 98 cases and 197 controls. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify determinants of precancerous cervical lesions.Results Women aged 30-39 years (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.03 – 6.08), monthly income < 42 USD and 43-66 USD (AOR = 3.41, 95% CI: 1.34 – 6.08; AOR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.31 – 9.88), initiation of first sexual intercourse at age less than or equal to 20 (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.14 – 5.47), having more than one life time sexual partners (AOR=4.70, 95% CI:2.02–10.95), having a partner/ husband with more than one lifetime sexual partners (AOR=2.98, 95% CI: 1.35–6.65) had higher odds of precancerous cervical lesions.Conclusion Strategies to prevent precancerous cervical lesions should focus on modification of life style and sexual behaviour. The findings of this study highlight implications for policy makers by suggesting that targeting older women for cervical cancer screening, addressing inequalities and education relating to risky sexual behaviour may reduce precancerous cervical lesions. Further longitudinal study is needed to assess awareness of women about cervical cancer screening.
A Protocol for Automated a-posteriori Adaptive Meshing with SimVascular
Authors: Gupta Akash , Kung Ethan O.
Published: September 2019

Objective: Operational details regarding the use of the adaptive meshing (AM) algorithm available in the SimVascular package are scarce despite its application in several studies. Lacking these details, novice users of the AM algorithm may experience undesirable outcomes post-adaptation such as increases in mesh error metrics, unpredictable increases in mesh size, and losses in geometric fidelity. Here we propose an iterative protocol that will help prevent these undesirable outcomes and enhance the utility of the AM algorithm. We present three trials (conservative, aggressive and moderate settings) of our proposed protocol applied to a scenario modelling a Fontan junction with a patient-specific geometry and physiologically realistic boundary conditions. Results: In all three trials, an overall reduction in mesh error metrics is observed (range 47%-86%). The increase in the number of elements through each adaptation never exceeded the mesh size of the pre-adaptation mesh by one order of magnitude. In all three trials, the protocol resulted in consistent, repeatable improvements in mesh error metrics, no losses of geometric fidelity and steady increments in the number of elements in the mesh. Our proposed protocol prevented the aforementioned undesirable outcomes and can potentially save new users considerable effort and computing resources.
Rare presentation of atypical pathogens pneumonia as fibrinous inflammation in 8 children in Anhui province, China from 2012 to 2019
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Wang , Ding Sheng-gang
Published: September 2019

Background M. pneumoniae and adenovirus are generally recognized as a self-limiting illness, but sometimes they will develop into macrolide-resistant M . pneumoniae or refractory adenovirus pneumonia associated with prolonged disease course with increased clinical severity, longer hospital stay and treatment failure. Methods Children with a final diagnosis of atypical pathogens pneumonia presenting as mucus plugs to the Department of Pediatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University were prospectively enrolled between June 2012 and June 2019 . 7 patients were identified as mycoplasma pneumoniae positive IgM and 1 patient was diagnosed as adenovirus infection by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay . Results All the 8 cases reported in this study were diagnosed as lung infection, while 6 patients had pulmonary consolidation . Histological examination of mucus plugs in patient 3 and 8 revealed a fibrinous exudation. The average duration of m acrolide a ntibiotics treatment was ( 12.86 ± 3.49) days, and the total course of treatment ranged from 7 to 17 days. Patient 5 with adenovirus infection was given ganciclovir for 10 days without using of a ntibiotics. Bronchoalveolar lavage, pulse methylprednisolone, atomization inhalation of salbutamol and budesonide suspension , and intravenous immunoglobulins were performed in these patients. Conclusion We highly suspected that these mucus plugs might be the early presentation of plastic bronchitis. Use of anti-infection treatment ( macrolide a ntibiotics) , corticosteroid, gamma globulin , and other conventional treatments, lung lavage bronchofibroscope have good efficacy and can improve clinical outcomes.
The efficacy of allograft bone using titanium mesh in the posterior-only surgical treatment of thoracic and thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis
Authors: Wang Bingjin , Hua Wenbin , Ke Wencan , Zhang Yukun , Zeng Xianlin , Yang Cao
Published: September 2019

Background The bony fusion of allograft bone using titanium mesh in the posterior-only surgical treatment of thoracic and thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis has not been explained in detail. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of bony fusion of allograft bone using titanium mesh in the posterior-only surgical treatment of thoracic and thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis.Methods We treated 32 thoracic or thoracolumbar tuberculosis patients by one-stage posterior debridement, allograft bone graft using titanium mesh, posterior instrumentation, and fusion from May 2011 to September 2015. The American Spinal Injury Association neurological classification, visual analog scale, and Oswestry disability index scores were analyzed preoperatively, postoperatively, and at final follow-up. The Cobb angles were recorded to evaluate the kyphosis correction and the loss of correction. The bony fusion was evaluated by X-ray and computed tomography images, and the bony fusion classifications were recorded.Results All patients had pain relief. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-response protein, and hepatorenal function were normal at final follow-up. The American Spinal Injury Association neurological classification, visual analog scale, and Oswestry disability index scores were improved in all the patients. All patients achieved bone fusion. Twenty-eight patients achieved complete fusion (Grade I), whereas only four patients achieved partial fusion (Grade II). The preoperative Cobb angle was 33.6±9.3°. The Cobb angle was reduced to 10.6±2.6° postoperatively and was found to be 11.4±3.1° at the final follow-up. The mean angle correction was 23.0±8.9°, and the correction rate was 66.2±12.2%. The mean angle lost was 0.8±0.9°, and the lost rate was 5.8±5.4% at the final follow-up.Conclusions Allograft bone using titanium mesh in the posterior-only surgical treatment is effective for patients with thoracic and thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis. It can correct kyphosis, and most patients can achieve complete bony fusion.
Effects of nasal continuous positive airway pressure on cerebral hemodynamics in preterm infants
Authors: ZHOU Han , ZHAO Youyan , CHENG Rui , HOU Xuewen , Qiu Jie
Published: September 2019

Background To evaluate effects of different positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) levels on cerebral hemodynamics of premature infants when using nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) during the first 3 days of life. Methods Forty-four preterm infants treated with nCPAP were divided into very preterm infant group (gestational age 1 (GA1) group, GA<32 weeks, n=24) and moderate and late preterm group (GA2 group, GA 32-37 weeks, n=20). During the monitoring process, the PEEP was set at 4→6→8→4 cmH 2 O and cerebral hemodynamics was assessed by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Life signs, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) and transcutaneous carbon dioxide pressure (TcPCO 2 ) were recorded at the same time. Results Tissue oxygenation index (TOI), cerebral blood volume (△CBV) and the difference between oxygenated hemoglobin (△HbO 2 ) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (△HHb) (△HbD) were all significantly positive correlated with gestational and postnatal age and the fluctuation of GA1 group was greater. △CBV and △HbD were also significantly positive correlated with TcPCO 2 . PEEP of 4-8 cmH 2 O had no significant influence on cerebral hemodynamics, life signs, SpO 2 or TcPCO 2 . Conclusions No significant differences were observed in cerebral hemodynamics when the PEEP was set from 4 to 8 cmH 2 O. These findings confirmed the safety and reliability of nCPAP at regular pressure levels to the nervous system of preterm infants.
Mainstreamed Genetic Testing of Breast Cancer Patients in Two Hospitals in South Eastern Norway
Authors: Grindedal Eli Marie , Jørgensen Kjersti , Olsson Pernilla , Gravdehaug Berit , Lurås Hilde , Norum Jan , Schlichting Ellen , Vamre Tone , Wangensteen Teresia , Heramb Cecilie , Mæhle Lovise
Published: September 2019

Background: Identification of a BRCA mutation in a breast cancer patient provides critical information both for treatment decisions and for prevention of new cancers. In South Eastern Norway, genetic testing of the BRCA genes has been mainstreamed into breast cancer care. Testing is offered directly to the patients by the surgeon or oncologist if they fulfill national criteria. The purpose of this study was to investigate to what extent BC patients who fulfill these criteria are offered testing. Methods: Three hundred and sixty one BC patients diagnosed during the first half of 2016 and 2017 at one university and one regional hospital in South Eastern Norway were included in the study. Data were collected on whether the patients fulfilled the criteria, whether they had been offered testing and if they had accepted testing. Results: For the two hospitals combined, 75% of BC patients who fulfilled the criteria were offered testing. The numbers were 63% at the regional hospital and 90% at the university hospital. Fifty two percent of the patients who were not offered testing even though they fulfilled the criteria and were younger than 50 years at time of diagnosis. As many as 95% of the patients who were offered testing, wanted to be tested. Conclusions: The majority of patients who fulfilled the criteria were offered testing. However, there were differences in rates of testing between the hospitals that affected all groups of patients. This indicates that diagnostic genetic testing is not equally available to all BC patients. We suggest that efforts should be made to raise awareness of and improve routines for genetic testing of BC patients in Norway.
Evaluation of Microvascular Network with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) in Branch Retinal vein Occlusion (BRVO)
Authors: Chen Lulu , Yuan Mingzhen , Sun Lu , Wang Yuelin , Chen Youxin
Published: September 2019

Purpose: To evaluate changes of microvascular network of macular and peripapillary regions and to provide a quantitative measurement of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in unilateral BRVO patients. Methods: Forty-seven unilateral BRVO patients were enrolled. A 3*3 mm scan centered on fovea followed by a 4.5*4.5 mm scan centered on optic nerve head (ONH) were obtained in BRVO eyes and fellow eyes of each individual using OCTA (Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA, USA). Vessel density (VD) in superficial (SVC) and deep vascular complex (DVC) of macula and radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) were automatically calculated. Parameters of FAZ region including size, perimeter, acircularity index (AI) and foveal density 300 (FD-300) were measured. Results: VDs of SCV and DVC were significantly lower, especially in affected regions, in BRVO eyes compared with fellow eyes ( P <0.05). BRVO affected eyes has larger FAZ size, FAZ perimeter, AI and lower FD-300 compared with fellow eyes (all P <0.05). The average vessel density in whole area and peripapillary area in BRVO eyes were significantly lower compared with fellow eyes ( P <0.05). Conclusions: OCTA provided quantitative information of vascular changes in BRVO. FAZ in BRVO eyes showed significant morphological alterations and decreases of VD in surrounding area. Decreases of VD existed not only in SVC and DVC in macular region but also in RPCs in BRVO eyes. Key words: optical coherence tomography angiography, retinal vasculature, foveal avascular zone, radial peripapillary capillary, branch retinal vein occlusion
Efficacy and safety of calcitonin-gene-related peptide binding monoclonal antibodies for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine – An updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Hong , Li Gai-gai , Nie Hao , Feng Yang-yang , Guo Guang-yu , Guo Wen-liang , tang zhouping
Published: September 2019

Background Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders that leads to disabilities. However, the conventional drug therapy for migraine is unsatisfactory. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of calcitonin-gene-related peptide binding monoclonal antibody (CGRP mAb) for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine, and provide high-quality clinical evidence for migraine therapy.Methods A systematic electronic database search was conducted to identify the potentially relevant studies. Two independent authors performed data extraction and quality appraisal. Mean difference (MD) and risk ratio (RR) were pooled for continuous and dichotomous data, respectively. The significance levels, weighted effect sizes and homogeneity of variance were calculated.Results Eleven high-quality randomized control trials that collectively included 4402 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Compared to placebo group, CGRP mAb therapy resulted in a reduction of monthly migraine days [weighted mean difference (WMD) = −1.44, 95% CI = (−1.68,−1.19)] and acute migraine-specific medication days [WMD = −1.28, 95% CI = (−1.66,−0.90)], with an improvement in 50% responder rate [RR = 1.51, 95% CI =(1.37,1.66)]. In addition, the adverse events (AEs) and treatment withdrawal rates due to AEs were not significantly different between CGRP mAb and placebo groups. Similar efficacy and safety results were obtained for erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab in subgroup analysis.Conclusions The current body of evidence reveals that CGRP mAb is an effective and safe preventive treatment for episodic migraine.
Cell dynamics and natural frequencies: scaling and shape matters
Authors: C V Chandrashekara , Mubeen Ayman Ahmed , Barathwaj R Arun , Basavaraju Amith , Kateel M C Srividyadhare
Published: September 2019

Cell dynamics is one of the most investigated areas under the field of biomechanics. Scaling plays a crucial role in determining the dynamic characteristics of biological systems. In the present investigation, cuboidal and cylindrical models of different scales are analysed to depict the dependence of natural frequency on the scaling factors. Three approaches, namely lumped mass system, finite element model (FEM) and numerical approach using Ansys are used to determine the fundamental natural frequencies. Different scaling factors, namely nano, micro (original size), millimeter and meter are considered for the analysis. The results indicate that the natural frequency varies inversely with the size of the cell by the same factor. A simple mathematical relation is derived to support this claim. Results are illustrated with numerical examples and corresponding mode shapes are reported.
Concept for an event-triggered wireless sensor network for vibration-based diagnosis in trams
Authors: Wolf Maik , Rudolph Mathias , Kanoun Olfa
Published: September 2019

Trams are the most durable and resource efficient forms of public transportation. However, because of the varying wear in dependence on their operation mode and load levels, there is a need for condition monitoring and early maintenance. Vibration sensors provide interesting possibilities to monitor the relevant tram drive components. In this contribution we investigate their use under real conditions. On the basis of cable bound vibration measurements, the influence of the crossed track section, the tram speed and the tram condition is shown. Based on the investigation results, a concept is proposed in which a meshed and wireless sensor network, event-triggered, can acquire vibration measurement data, which are suitable for the diagnosis of tram drive components. The proposed concept has the potential to operate the sensor nodes in an energy efficient way through decentralized data evaluation taking place on the sensor node.
An overview of epoxidation vegetables oil for production poly oils
Authors: Jalil Mohd Jumain , Asniera Rasnan Nurul Hasna , Mohd Yamin Aliff Farhan , Hasanah Abdul Hadi , Abdul Rani Noor Hidayu
Published: September 2019

There is enormous growth in the epoxidation base on vegetables oil in recent year due to the rising demand for eco-friendly epoxides to replace petrochemical resources. The aim of this review is to give an insight on the article on epoxidation of various vegetables oils published in scientific journals, major proceeding and books. Review on feasibly and optimization of epoxide are found to leading topics in this area.
Outbreak Investigation of a Multipathogen Foodborne Disease in a Training Institute in Rabat, Morocco: Case-Control Study
Authors: Moumni Abdou Houda , Dahbi Ilham , Akrim Mohammed , Meski Fatima Zahra , Khader Yousef , Lakranbi Mohammed , Ezzine Hind , Khattabi Asmae
Published: September 2019

Background

On June 18, 2017, the public health service was alerted about 43 students in the training institute in Rabat who were admitted to the emergency room for acute gastroenteritis following the uptake of a meal a day before.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the foodborne disease outbreak by confirming the outbreak, identifying the source of contamination, and recommending control measures.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study. Cases and controls were selected in a ratio of 1:1. We defined a case as any member of the training institute who attended the Ramadan buffet in the institute’s restaurant and who had presented, in the weekend of June 16 to 20, 2017, symptoms of diarrhea or vomiting with at least one of the following signs: abdominal pain, fever, headache, nausea, and dizziness. A control was defined as anyone who attended the Ramadan buffet in the institute’s restaurant but had not presented any symptoms from June 16 to 20, 2017. We conducted a bivariate and multivariable analysis. Stools of ill students were collected, and a food specimen was collected for bacterial testing.

Results

A total of 50 cases and 50 controls were selected. Among the cases, males were predominant (43/50, 86%); the median age was 21 years. A total of 47 cases sought medical care. There were no hospitalizations and no deaths. The episode was short with an estimated average incubation period of 9 hours. The epidemic curve oriented toward a common source of contamination. Among food items, briwates were strongly associated with the illness with an odd ratio of 14.23 (95% CI 5.04-40.04; P<.001). Laboratory testing of briwates showed presence of Escherichia coli O157 and Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions

This foodborne disease outbreak was likely caused by briwates that was contaminated with S aureus and E coli. We recommended strengthening hygiene measures. Food handling techniques should be taught as part of continuous professional development for food handlers.