bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Kidney Disease on Peripheral Arterial Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Anantha-Narayanan Mahesh , Sheikh Azfar Bilal , Nagpal Sameer , Smolderen Kim G. , Turner Jeffrey , Schneider Marabel , Llanos-Chea Fiorella , Mena-Hurtado Carlos
Published: June 2020

Background: There are limited data on outcomes of patients undergoing peripheral arterial disease (PAD) interventions who have comorbid CKD/ESRD versus those who do not have such comorbid condition. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze outcomes in this patient population. Methods: Five databases were searched for studies comparing outcomes of lower extremity PAD interventions for claudication and critical limb ischemia (CLI) in patients with CKD/ESRD versus non-CKD/non-ESRD from January 2000 to June 2019. Results: Our study included 16 observational studies with 44,138 patients. Mean follow-up was 48.9 ± 27.4 months. Major amputation was higher with CKD/ESRD compared with non-CKD/non-ESRD (odds ratio [OR 1.97] [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39–2.80], p = 0.001). Higher major amputations with CKD/ESRD versus non-CKD/non-ESRD were only observed when indication for procedure was CLI (OR 2.27 [95% CI 1.53–3.36], p < 0.0001) but were similar for claudication (OR 1.15 [95% CI 0.53–2.49], p = 0.72). The risk of early mortality was high with CKD/ESRD patients undergoing PAD interventions compared with non-CKD/non-ESRD (OR 2.55 [95% CI 1.65–3.96], p < 0.0001), which when stratified based on indication, remained higher with CLI (OR 3.14 [95% CI 1.80–5.48], p < 0.0001) but was similar with claudication (OR 1.83 [95% CI 0.90–3.72], p = 0.1). Funnel plot of included studies showed moderate bias. Conclusions: Patients undergoing lower extremity PAD interventions for CLI who also have comorbid CKD/ESRD have an increased risk of experiencing major amputations and early mortality. Randomized trials to understand outcomes of PAD interventions in this at-risk population are essential.
Refractory Fetal Supraventricular Tachycardia with Hydrops Successfully Converted by Intraperitoneal Flecainide in the Fetus: A Case Report
Authors: Vedel Cathrine , Vejlstrup Niels , Jensen Lisa Neerup , Ekelund Charlotte Kvist , Nørgaard Lone Nikoline , Harmsen Lotte , Petersen Olav Bjørn , Jaeggi Edgar , Gembruch Ulrich , Sundberg Karin
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Supraventricular tachycardia is the most common fetal tachyarrhythmia and if persistent often associated with fetal hydrops which can cause intrauterine and neonatal death. Case Presentation: We present a case of early second trimester supraventricular tachycardia in a hydropic fetus, initially refractory to transplacental treatment. Conclusion: The supraventricular tachycardia was successfully treated when supplemented with intraperitoneal flecainide in the fetus.
Reactive Oxygen-Forming Nox5 Links Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Switching and Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Vascular Calcification
Authors: Furmanik Malgorzata , Chatrou Martijn , van Gorp Rick , Akbulut Asim , Willems Brecht , Schmidt Harald , van Eys Guillaume , Bochaton-Piallat Marie-Luce , Proudfoot Diane , Biessen Erik , Hedin Ulf , Perisic Ljubica , Mees Barend , Shanahan Catherine , Reutelingsperger Chris , Schurgers Leon
Published: June 2020

Rationale:

Vascular calcification, the formation of calcium phosphate crystals in the vessel wall, is mediated by vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive, precluding mechanism-based therapies.

Objective:

Phenotypic switching denotes a loss of contractile proteins and an increase in migration and proliferation, whereby VSMCs are termed synthetic. We examined how VSMC phenotypic switching influences vascular calcification and the possible role of the uniquely calcium-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS)-forming Nox5 (NADPH oxidase 5).

Methods and Results:

In vitro cultures of synthetic VSMCs showed decreased expression of contractile markers CNN-1 (calponin 1), α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin), and SM22-α (smooth muscle protein 22α) and an increase in synthetic marker S100A4 (S100 calcium binding protein A4) compared with contractile VSMCs. This was associated with increased calcification of synthetic cells in response to high extracellular Ca
2+
. Phenotypic switching was accompanied by increased levels of ROS and Ca
2+
-dependent Nox5 in synthetic VSMCs. Nox5 itself regulated VSMC phenotype as siRNA knockdown of Nox5 increased contractile marker expression and decreased calcification, while overexpression of Nox5 decreased contractile marker expression. ROS production in synthetic VSMCs was cytosolic Ca
2+
-dependent, in line with it being mediated by Nox5. Treatment of VSMCs with Ca
2+
loaded extracellular vesicles (EVs) lead to an increase in cytosolic Ca
2+
. Inhibiting EV endocytosis with dynasore blocked the increase in cytosolic Ca
2+
and VSMC calcification. Increased ROS production resulted in increased EV release and decreased phagocytosis by VSMCs.

Conclusions:

We show here that contractile VSMCs are resistant to calcification and identify Nox5 as a key regulator of VSMC phenotypic switching. Additionally, we describe a new mechanism of Ca
2+
uptake via EVs and show that Ca
2+
induces ROS production in VSMCs via Nox5. ROS production is required for release of EVs, which promote calcification. Identifying molecular pathways that control Nox5 and VSMC-derived EVs provides potential targets to modulate vascular remodeling and calcification in the context of mineral imbalance.

Graphic Abstract:

A
graphic abstract
is available for this article.
Health Impact and Cost-Effectiveness of Volume, Tiered, and Absolute Sugar Content Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax Policies in the United States
Authors: Lee Yujin , Mozaffarian Dariush , Sy Stephen , Liu Junxiu , Wilde Parke E. , Marklund Matti , Abrahams-Gessel Shafika , Gaziano Thomas A. , Micha Renata
Published: June 2020

Background:

Sugar-sweetened beverage taxes are a rapidly growing policy tool and can be based on absolute volume, sugar content tiers, or absolute sugar content. Yet, their comparative health and economic impacts have not been quantified, in particular, tiered or sugar content taxes that provide industry incentives for sugar reduction.

Methods:

We estimated incremental changes in diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, quality-adjusted life-years, costs, and cost-effectiveness of 3 sugar-sweetened beverage tax designs in the United States, on the basis of (1) volume ($0.01/oz), (2) tiers (<5 g of added sugar/8 oz: no tax; 5–20 g/8 oz: $0.01/oz; and >20 g/8 oz: $0.02/oz), and (3) absolute sugar content ($0.01 per teaspoon added sugar), each compared with a base case of modest ongoing voluntary industry reformulation. A validated microsimulation model, CVD-PREDICT (Cardiovascular Disease Policy Model for Risk, Events, Detection, Interventions, Costs, and Trends), incorporated national demographic and dietary data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, policy effects and sugar-sweetened beverage-related diseases from meta-analyses, and industry reformulation and health-related costs from established sources.

Results:

Over a lifetime, the volume, tiered, and absolute sugar content taxes would generate $80.4 billion, $142 billion, and $41.7 billion in tax revenue, respectively. From a healthcare perspective, the volume tax would prevent 850 000 cardiovascular disease (95% CI, 836 000–864 000) and 269 000 diabetes mellitus (265 000–274 000) cases, gain 2.44 million quality-adjusted life-years (2.40–2.48), and save $53.2 billion net costs (52.3–54.1). Health gains and savings were approximately doubled for the tiered and absolute sugar content taxes. Results were robust for societal and government perspectives, at 10 years follow-up, and with lower (50%) tax pass-through. Health gains were largest in young adults, blacks and Hispanics, and lower-income Americans.

Conclusions:

All sugar-sweetened beverage tax designs would generate substantial health gains and savings. Tiered and absolute sugar content taxes should be considered and evaluated for maximal potential gains.
Making Sense of Central Asia in Pre-Petrine Russia
Authors: Abdurasulov Ulfatbek
Published: June 2020

The existing historiography on liaisons between Russia and Central Asia in early modern period often tends to portray the cross-cultural diplomacy between the settings as an assemblage of sporadic, inefficient, clumsy encounters, full of diplomatic failures. Further to it, the dominant paradigm emphasizes cultural differences in the region, whereby any form of cross-cultural encounters was inevitably hampered by various confessional, religious and social borders. As a result, we tend to read every case of cross-cultural encounter between early modern Central Asia and Russia as a metaphor of cultural incommensurability. In the essay, I shall offer a close reading of two 17th-century Muscovite diplomatic missions to Central Asia as test cases with which to make sense of cultural encounters through the lens of individual actors. In doing so, I shall highlight the specific practices and strategies that allowed the diplomatic actors to play key roles as cultural mediators using their language skills, local knowledge and contact networks. In the broader sense, the essay set out to examine how can we problematize cross-cultural encounters between Central Asian principalities such as Khiva and Bukhara on the one hand, and Pre-Petrine Russia on the other: and to consider what we actually mean when we speak of early modern diplomacy in Central Eurasia.
Agrarian and Mercantile Ideologies in Western Han
Authors: Sterckx Roel
Published: June 2020

This paper questions the conventional scholarly view that early Chinese economic thought simply conceived of farming and commerce as mutually opposing forces. It argues that during Western Han times there existed a significant distance between court rhetoric and economic reality and suggests that, in reading official discourse, one should be cautious not to emphasize the economic over the political. The paper re-examines a series of well-known court memorials and concludes that few questioned the ethics of how wealth should be generated as long as political control could be maintained and the Han court was on the receiving end of it.
The Challenges of Research in the Psychology of Religion among Jewish (Israeli) Samples
Authors: Lazar Aryeh
Published: June 2020

Measures and conceptualizations in the psychology of religion have been developed on predominantly Christian samples and their transportation to the study of other religions can be problematic. A review of empirical research on Israeli Jewish samples in different research areas—measuring religiousness, religious motivation, mystical experience, prayer, religious support, religious fundamentalism, and religiousness & sexuality—is presented and the significance of differences in orthodoxy / orthopraxy orientation, religious theology and belief, religious practice, and sociological aspects of religious life for empirical research in the psychology of religion is demonstrated. Methodological recommendations in each instance are provided. Many of the insights and recommendations presented here are applicable to the study of additional non-Christian religions.
Reading the Arabian Nights in Modern Hebrew Literature: Judaism, Arabness and the City
Authors: Tzoreff Avi-ram
Published: June 2020

The discourse about the Arabian Nights illustrates the ways through which hegemonic poetic and literary discourses crystallized themselves, while developing a set of distinctions as a yardstick for the estimation of literary works, as well as the connections between these various distinctions—namely ‘realistic’ and ‘fantastic’, East and West, and oral storytelling and folklore versus written literature. This article focuses on the discourse about the Arabian Nights in the field of modern Hebrew literature. In turning towards the collection, discussing it and translating some of its sections, the various characters who dealt with it expressed and promoted a cultural and political narrative which saw cultural affinities as a potential basis for broader political cooperation between Arabs and Jews. I will argue, however, that the discourse about the collection illustrates a process of modern Hebrew literature adopting a definition of itself as European and secular literature. I will also argue that the discourse on the Arabian Nights reveals the various directions taken by those who resisted the construal of modern Hebrew literature as a vector in the European- secular tradition. These counter-hegemonic assertions particularly took the form of arguments that the collection was a multifaceted cultural treasure that includes Hebrew layers, or, alternatively, representing it as a model of a modern literary genre, the city-centered anthology.
New species of Nereis (Annelida, Polychaeta, Nereididae) from Taiwanese waters
Authors: HSUEH PAN-WEN
Published: June 2020

Members of Nereis species are characterised by having conical paragnaths on both maxillary and oral rings of the pharynx, and notopodial homogomph falcigers on posterior chaetigers. The present faunistic study includes Nereis species collected from various ecological surveys on coastal and offshore bathyal benthic habitats of Taiwan. The main results are that eight new species are described: N. articulata n. sp., N. longdongensis n. sp., N. nuwalianensis n. sp., N. paporae n. sp., N. shitipingensis n. sp., N. taitungensis n. sp., N. taiwanensis n. sp. and N. wuchiensis n. sp. In addition, two Nereis species are informally named as sp. A and sp. B because there was only a slightly poorly preserved specimen for each, although each species possess a unique combination of morphological characters that are not known from congeners reported from East Asia. A Table of key characters for all described species in the present study and a key to Nereis species from East Asia are provided.
On the genera Issidius Puton and Morsina Melichar (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Fulgoroidea: Nogodinidae: Epacriini)
Authors: GNEZDILOV VLADIMIR M. , MOZAFFARIAN FARIBA
Published: June 2020

Nogodinid genera Issidius Puton, 1898 and Morsina Melichar, 1902 are revised. Iranissus Dlabola, 1980 is placed in synonymy under Issidius Puton and Hadjia Dlabola, 1981, Philbyella China, 1938 and Rileyopsis Bergevin, 1917—under Morsina Melichar. Philbyella adeiba Badawy, El Hamouly et Sawaby, 2011 is placed in synonymy under Ph. elba Linnavuori, 1973. The lectotypes are designated for Issus rotundiceps Lethierry, 1887 and Morsina persica Melichar, 1902. The photos of type specimens of Morsina persica Melichar, 1902, Hadjia quadrifasciata Dlabola, 1981, and H. nerii Dlabola, 1981 are given.
Quantifying vertebrate zoogeographical regions of Australia using geospatial turnover in the species composition of mammals, birds, reptiles and terrestrial amphibians
Authors: BEIN BERNHARD , EBACH MALTE C. , LAFFAN SHAWN W. , MURPHY DANIEL J. , CASSIS GERASIMOS
Published: June 2020

A geospatial analysis of 1,906,302 records of 1938 species of Australian vertebrates has shown that the original regions proposed in the 19th century, namely the Eyrean, Torresian and Bassian still hold. The analysis has shown that the Eyrean region has an east-west divide, forming two, possibly independent arid regions (Eastern Desert and Western Desert provinces), that are shaped by topography and rainfall. A revised and interim zoogeographical area taxonomy of the Australian region is presented herein.
Review of the Indian Ocean spikefish genus Mephisto (Tetraodontiformes: Triacanthodidae)
Authors: BEMIS KATHERINE E. , TYLER JAMES C. , PSOMADAKIS PETER N. , FERRIS LAUREN NEWELL , KUMAR APPUKUTTANNAIR BIJU
Published: June 2020

We redescribe the triacanthodid spikefish Mephisto fraserbrunneri Tyler 1966 based upon eight specimens (five newly reported herein) and the first color photographs of freshly collected specimens; these data are compared with that of the single specimen of the recently described M. albomaculosus Matsuura, Psomadakis, and Mya Than Tun 2018. Both species are found in the Indian Ocean, with M. fraserbrunneri known from the Arabian Sea off the east coast of Africa to the eastern Bay of Bengal, and M. albomaculosus confirmed only from the type locality in the Andaman Sea (a color photograph of an individual M. cf. albomaculosus from the Bay of Bengal that was not retained is also presented). We describe and diagnose the genus Mephisto and provide a key to the two species based upon all available specimens. We also provide a distribution map for both species and summarize literature records. Using micro-CT data, we show that Mephisto fraserbrunneri replaces teeth intraosseously, which suggests this tooth replacement pattern is plesiomorphic for Tetraodontiformes.
Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy for the Treatment of Severe Vascular Calcification
Authors: Kassimis George , Didagelos Matthaios , De Maria Giovanni Luigi , Kontogiannis Nestoras , Karamasis Grigoris V. , Katsikis Athanasios , Sularz Agata , Karvounis Haralambos , Kanonidis Ioannis , Krokidis Miltiadis , Ziakas Antonios , Banning Adrian P.
Published: June 2020

Vascular calcification is a highly prevalent pathophenotype that is associated with aging, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. When present, it portends a worse clinical outcome and predicts major adverse cardiovascular events. Heavily calcified coronary and peripheral artery lesions are difficult to dilate appropriately with conventional balloons during percutaneous intervention, and the use of several adjunctive strategies of plaque modification has been suggested. Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) offers a novel option for lesion preparation of severely calcified plaques in coronary and peripheral vessels. It is unique among all technologies in its ability to modify calcium circumferentially and transmurally, thus modifying transmural conduit compliance. In this article, we summarize the currently available evidence on this technology, and we highlight its best clinical application through appropriate patient and lesion selection, with the main objective of optimizing stent delivery and implantation, and subsequent improved short- and long-term outcomes. We believe that the IVL balloon will transform the market, as it is easy to use, with predictable results. However, cost-effectiveness of such advanced technology will need to be considered.
Association Between C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio and Left Ventricular Thrombus Formation Following Acute Anterior Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cirakoglu Omer Faruk , Aslan Ahmet Oguz , Yilmaz Ahmet Seyda , Şahin Sinan , Akyüz Ali Rıza
Published: June 2020

Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) is associated with inflammatory response in survivors with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) has been proposed as a marker of inflammation. However, there is a lack of data with respect to the role of CAR in LVT development. We investigated the relationship between CAR and LVT development in patients with anterior STEMI treated percutaneously; 955 consecutive patients were enrolled and LVT was observed in 126 (13.2%) patients. Clinical, demographic, and laboratory parameters were recorded. The CAR was significantly higher in patients with LVT (12.6 [8.6-16.1] vs 18.1 [11.5-23], P < .001). Other independent predictors for LVT development were lower ejection fraction, the presence of left ventricular apical aneurysm, proximal left anterior descending lesion location, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors treatment, >1 diseased arteries, higher total protein level, neutrophil count, and peak creatine kinase myocardial band activity. In conclusion, the CAR may be useful as a simple tool for predicting LVT development among survivors of anterior STEMI.
Head and Neck Injuries from Rock Climbing: A Query of the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System
Authors: Chou David W. , Kshirsagar Rijul , Liang Jonathan
Published: June 2020

Objective:

We describe the incidence and characteristics of patients with head and neck injuries from rock climbing who present to United States emergency departments and evaluate predictors of hospitalization.

Methods:

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database was queried for rock climbing injuries to the head, face, mouth, neck, and ear under product code “mountain climbing” from the years 2009 to 2018. Demographics, injury characteristics, and disposition data were reviewed. Data were evaluated using chi-square analysis with Cochran-Mantel-Haenszal odds ratios (ORs).

Results:

An estimated 5067 patients (from 129 raw NEISS case numbers) suffered head and neck injuries from rock climbing nationally from 2009 to 2018. Concussion/closed head injury was the most common injury (44%), followed by laceration (23%), soft tissue injury (15%), neck strain/sprain (6%), skull fracture (3%), facial fracture (3%), intracranial hemorrhage (3%), cervical spine fracture (2%), unspecified facial trauma (1%), and dental trauma (0.3%). Males more frequently suffered lacerations (OR 1.6), soft tissue injuries (OR 23.3), cervical spine fractures (OR 336.7), intracranial hemorrhage (OR 582.0), and skull fractures (OR 6.2) than females. Compared to shorter falls, falls over 20 ft were more commonly associated with laceration (OR 2.0), soft tissue injury (OR 3.5), facial fracture (OR 7.5), dental trauma (OR 6.6), intracranial hemorrhage (OR 951.8), skull fracture (OR 81.2), and hospitalization (OR 3.8). Injuries associated with hospitalization included facial fracture (OR 23.7), cervical spine fracture (OR 24.6), intracranial hemorrhage (OR 2210.2), and skull fracture (OR 9.8).

Conclusions:

Concussions and facial lacerations are the most common head and neck injuries from rock climbing. Males more commonly suffer severe injuries. Falls over 20 ft are associated with more severe injuries and an increased likelihood of hospitalization.
First Bite Syndrome Following Rhytidectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Gunter Anne E. , Llewellyn Charles M. , Perez Paloma B. , Hohman Marc H. , Roofe Scott B.
Published: June 2020

Background:

First bite syndrome (FBS) is a known complication of parotid gland resection, parapharyngeal space dissection, and cervical sympathetic chain injury. It can be described as severe cramping or spasms in the parotid region triggered by the first bite of a meal, with the pain lessening during each subsequent bite. Although dissection for a rhytidectomy is in the vicinity of the parotid parenchyma, face-lift is not typically characterized as a procedure that can lead to FBS.

Case description:

A 53-year-old female underwent a deep plane face-lift to address her goals of improving jowls, nasolabial folds, and cervicomental angle. Intraoperatively, the dissection proceeded without any complications. Initially, her postoperative course was uneventful; 3 weeks after surgery, she noticed pain at the start of mastication that would improve throughout the course of a meal. She elected to proceed with observation. At 6 months after surgery, she began to experience improvement in her symptoms, and shortly thereafter had complete resolution.

Discussion:

First bite syndrome is a complication associated with deep lobe parotid resection, first described in 1998. The innervation of the parotid gland is complex and includes contributions from the auriculotemporal nerve, the great auricular nerve, and the cervical sympathetic chain. During rhytidectomy, dissection occurs along the parotidomasseteric fascia in order to elevate a flap of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system. Inadvertent injury to the parotid parenchyma can lead to damage to the postganglionic sympathetic fibers innervating the myoepithelial cells. Ultimately, expectant management is the mainstay of treatment and symptoms typically resolve within 6 months to 1 year.

Conclusion:

First bite syndrome is a complication that can be seen with a variety of facial surgeries. In the case of rhytidectomy, FBS should be considered a potential risk, as dissection into the parenchyma of the parotid gland can result in postoperative autonomic dysfunction.
Analysis of Characteristics and Survival of Primary Cutaneous Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Behbahani Sara , Wassef David W. , Povolotskiy Roman , Pinto Jessica , Joseph Nia , Paskhover Boris
Published: June 2020

Background/Objectives:

Primary cutaneous adenoid cystic carcinoma (PCACC) is a rare skin tumor. The head and neck (H&N) is the most common anatomical location. Due to limited published cases, its clinical course and management are not well understood.

Methods:

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for all cases of H&N PCACC diagnosed from 2004 to 2016. Kaplan–Meier (KM) and Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine clinicopathological and treatment factors associated with survival outcomes.

Results:

A total of 201 cases were analyzed. The average age of diagnosis was 57.7 years (± SD 15.8). There was a female predilection (57.7%; P < .05) with the most common primary site being the ear (58.2%). The average tumor size was 15.9 mm in diameter. The most common treatment was surgery alone (51.7%) with wide local excision being the common surgery performed (36.3%). 5-year and 10-year OS were 87.0% and 76.0%, respectively. A total of 65.8% of cases were localized (Stage I and II). KM analysis indicated that gender, age, insurance status, Charlson-Deyo Comobordity Score, and stage were significant predictors of OS ( P < .05). Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that patients with both private (HR 0.11, 95%CI [0.019-0.670]; P = .02) and government (HR 0.12, 95%CI [0.019-0.972]; P = .03) health insurance had a significantly decreased hazard of death than patients who were uninsured. Increasing age was associated with an increased hazard of death (HR 1.06, 95%CI [1.016-1.110]; P = .01).

Conclusion:

This study represents the largest cohort of H&N PCACC studied to date and provides important clinicopathologic information for this rare tumor. Additionally, our results emphasize the importance of health insurance as an independent predictor of survival in PCACC.
Reducing ER Visits and Readmissions after Head and Neck Surgery Through a Phone-based Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Shah Mitali , Douglas Jennifer , Carey Ryan , Daftari Manvav , Smink Teresa , Paisley Allison , Cannady Steven , Newman Jason , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Evaluate the impact of a patient phone calls and virtual wound checks within 72 hours of discharge on reducing emergency room (ER) visits and readmissions.

Methods:

Single arm trial with comparison to historical control data of patients undergoing multi subsite head and neck cancer operations or laryngectomy between July 2017 and June 2018 at a tertiary academic medical center. Patients were contacted within 72 hours of hospital discharge. As a supplement to the call, patients were given the opportunity to video conference with and/or send pictures to the provider with additional questions via a designated wound care phone.

Results:

Ninety-one patients met inclusion criteria, of whom 83 (91.2%) were contacted. Six patients (7%) were readmitted, of whom three had not been able to be reached. The patients who had been unable to be contacted were readmitted for dysphagia (2), and a urinary tract infection (1). The contacted patients were advised to go the ER during the call for concerns for postoperative bleeding (2) and gastrointestinal bleeding (1). Twenty-five patients (30%) utilized the wound care phone. 18 patients (21.7%) reported that the phone call survey prevented them from going to the ER. When compared to the prior year, there was as statistically significant decrease in ER visits ( P < .05), and no change in readmissions.

Conclusions:

Implementation of a phone call in the early postoperative period has the potential to decrease unnecessary ER visits and enhance patient satisfaction. This may decrease strain on the health care system and improve patient care.

Level of Evidence:

4
Increased stressful impact among general population in mainland China amid the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide cross-sectional study conducted after Wuhan city’s travel ban was lifted
Authors: Ma Zheng Feei , Zhang Yutong , Luo Xiaoqin , Li Xinli , Li Yeshan , Liu Shuchang , Zhang Yingfei
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Our study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychological responses and lifestyle changes among the general population in mainland China following the re-opening of the Wuhan city.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in April 2020. Participants of Chinese nationality aged ⩾ 18 years were asked to complete a modified validated Chinese version of a questionnaire regarding the impact of event scale (IES), family and social support, mental health–related lifestyle changes, and indicators of negative mental health impacts.

Results:

A total of 728 participants (i.e., 217 males and 511 females) completed the questionnaire. The mean age of the participants was 32.9 ± 10.4 years, with a majority of them (92.2%) having a higher educational qualification level. The overall mean IES in participants was 21.5 ± 7.0, reflecting mild stressful impact (i.e., following the re-opening of the Wuhan city); 25.5% of the participants had an IES score ⩾ 26. Being females and married were significantly associated with a higher mean IES score. The overall mean scores for intrusion and avoidance score scales in participants were 9.4 ± 3.7 and 12.1 ± 4.2, respectively.

Conclusions:

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased stressful impact in our participants following the re-opening of the Wuhan city when compared with our previous study, which should not be taken lightly.
Minimizing the bullwhip effect in a supply chain: a simulation approach using the beer game
Authors: Alabdulkarim Abdullah A
Published: June 2020

In this research, the aim is to find the most appropriate inventory management logic and set of rules along with the optimal decision values that will minimize the bullwhip effect in a supply chain, taking the beer game supply chain as a reference model. In order to achieve this, a simulation model of the beer game supply chain is developed along with an ordering strategy based on the Economic Order Quantity with additional rules, such as no backorder policy, vendor-managed inventory, and taking into consideration route deliveries, all of which are implemented in the ordering algorithm. In the literature, there is extensive research conducted on the causes of the bullwhip effect and in the presence of certain inventory management policies. However, these terms are rarely combined with simulation modeling to provide satisfactory proven results. In this article, our proposed ordering algorithm avoids the bullwhip effect to a very large extent. The results show that approximately half the cost is incurred compared to recent studies with the same settings.
Praetorian Army in Action: A Critical Assessment of Civil–Military Relations in Turkey
Authors: Esen Berk
Published: June 2020

With four successful and three failed coups in less than 60 years, the Turkish military is one of the most interventionist armed forces in the global south. Despite this record, few scholars have analyzed systematically how the military’s political role changed over time. To address this gap, this article examines the evolution of civil–military relations (CMR) in Turkey throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Based on a historical analysis, this article offers a revisionist account for the extant Turkish scholarship and also contributes to the broader literature on CMR. It argues that the military’s guardian status was not clearly defined and that the officer corps differed strongly on major political issues throughout the Cold War. This article also demonstrates that the officer corps was divided into opposite ideological factions and political agendas and enjoyed varying levels of political influence due to frequent purges and conjectural changes.
Suboptimal midcourse guidance design using generalized model predictive spread control
Authors: Ebrahimi Amin , Mohammadi Ali , Kashaninia Abdorreza
Published: June 2020

A new generalized model predictive spread control technique is presented for the midcourse guidance of interceptors that are designed to intercept high-speed ballistic missile targets. Because of using the basis functions, this new technique is further computationally efficient over the model predictive static programming technique. Also, the smoothness of the control variable is guaranteed for the smooth basis functions. For demonstrating the performance of the proposed technique, an interceptor midcourse guidance problem with an angle constraint is formulated and solved to intercept an incoming ballistic missile target successfully. Additionally, the results are compared with those of the midcourse guidance design using the model predictive static programming technique. A comparative study of the new technique has also been conducted with the quasi-spectral model predictive static programming technique proposed earlier in the literature. It has been observed that the orthogonality of the basis functions is a necessary assumption and without that, the quasi-spectral model predictive static programming technique is not a near-optimal technique. By using the new technique based on Legendre basis functions, the solution converges to the model predictive static programming method solution by increasing the number of basis functions with less computational load.
Time domain modeling and control of complex non-linear chemical processes using relay feedback test
Authors: Sujatha Vijay , Panda Rames C
Published: June 2020

This study analyzes with the technology of auto tuning using relay feedback test for non-square MIMO system through process modeling, identification, input-output pairing and control strategies. However, the control configuration selection based on conventional steady-state Relative Gain Array (RGA) matrix sometimes degrades the loop performance and it needs attention. This study also deals with the real challenges in time domain modeling and appropriate pairing of loops for non-linear chemical processes. The choice of input-output pairing for square system has been extended to non-linear chemical processes. This ensures the system’s stability by selecting an appropriate manipulated-controlled variable pairing in non-linear chemical processes and the same is also tested for benchmark of non-linear chemical processes. In this study, two types of non-square systems are considered: one is systems with excess input than output variables and the other is systems with excess output than input variables. Some benchmark non-linear chemical processes, such as processes with mild nonlinearity, moderate to high nonlinearity and highly nonlinearity, are also taken for this study. Three standard benchmark processes are used in analysis of nonlinear chemical processes, namely: (1) Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) process; (2) hydrogen-ion- concentration (pH) process and (3) distillation column and this procedure is illustrated via simulation of 3-by-2 and 2-by-3 non-linear chemical processes.
Assessment of Physical Activity in Adults: A Review of Validated Questionnaires From a Nutritionist’s Point of View
Authors: Bacelis-Rivero Angela Patricia , Vázquez-Rodríguez Anabel , Carrasco-Legleu Claudia E. , De León Lidia G. , Reza-López Sandra Alicia
Published: June 2020

Physical activity (PA) is a component of total energy expenditure. PA and PA energy expenditure (PAEE) can be estimated by objective techniques (OTs). However, the use of questionnaires is frequent in clinical settings and epidemiological studies. We conducted a search on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to perform a review of studies reporting the reliability and validity of PA questionnaires validated against OTs—doubly labeled water (DLW) or accelerometers—in free-living adults. We selected original articles published between 2009 and 2019 that reported validation studies of PA questionnaires. We identified 53 studies that fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Four PA questionnaires were validated against DLW and the remaining against accelerometers. Three questionnaires were compared with both DLW and accelerometer results. The correlation between questionnaire-estimated PAEE and DLW results ranged from r = .22 to r = .46, while that between questionnaire-estimated total PA (TPA) and accelerometer results ranged from r = .11 to r = .54 The intraclass correlation coefficients were between .56 and .84. Despite having good reliability, most of the questionnaires included in this review have shown limited validity for estimating TPA in adults. OTs should be considered as a first option, when possible. Further research is warranted on techniques to obtain more accurate PA and PAEE estimates.
Philosophical hermeneutics and contemporary Muslim scholars’ approaches to interpreting scripture
Authors: Akbar Ali
Published: June 2020

Although the German philosopher Hans-Georg Gadamer was not a religious thinker or theologian, his work and approach have influenced thinkers in the field of theology. This article explores some ‘overlaps’ between Gadamerian hermeneutics and the ideas of some contemporary Muslim scholars such as Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd, Abdolkarim Soroush, Muhammad Mujtahed Shabestari and Hassan Hanafi regarding issues of textual interpretation and understanding. In particular, the article seeks to understand how such ideas have appeared in these Muslim scholars’ approaches to interpreting the Qurʾan. It also explores some of the implications that follow from incorporating Gadamer’s ideas into Islamic theological and political discourses. The article argues that the application of Gadamer’s hermeneutic philosophy to the realm of Qurʾanic studies is not only fruitful insofar as it provides new insights into the interpretation of the Qurʾan, but also has important consequences for Islamic theological and political discourses more broadly.
Adipocytokine expression, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and TGF-β1/Smad signaling activity in diabetic patients complicated with pulmonary infection
Authors: Zha Mei , Ren Xiao-Bing , Chen Jing , Fang Ying , Yu Ping , Liu Yan-Yin , Wang Gang , Luo Jun , Yang Jing , Gou Ting-Wei
Published: June 2020

Objective

To investigate adipocytokine expression levels, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad signaling activity in diabetic patients with pulmonary infection.

Methods

Eighty-two type 2 diabetic patients with pulmonary infection were included in the observation group and 75 patients with simple type 2 diabetes were recruited into the control group. The fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and PLR in the two groups were compared. Complement-C1q/tumor necrosis factor related protein 3 (CTRP-3), complement-C1q/tumor necrosis factor related protein 9 (CTRP-9), leptin, adiponectin, and TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was detected.

Results

Compared with patients in the control group, patients in the observation group presented with increased levels of FGB, HbA1c, and leptin, an increase in the PLR, and decreased serum CTRP-3, CTRP-9, and adiponectin levels. TGF-β1, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3 protein expression levels were up-regulated in PBMCs from patients in the observation group compared with the control group.

Conclusions

These results show that in type 2 diabetic patients with pulmonary infection, adipocytokine expression is altered, PLR is disturbed, and the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathways in PBMCs are significantly activated.
Association of dyslipidaemia with Alzheimer’s disease in a cohort of postmenopausal women
Authors: Li Ning , Xu Xiaoying , Mao Shuai , Jiang Ye , Hu Yadong , Xing Ruowei , Chen Yajing , Ye Junxing , Ling Li , Zeng Xianshang , Han Guowei
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the association between dyslipidaemia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in a cohort of postmenopausal women.

Methods

This retrospective study analysed data from postmenopausal women with early AD (group AD) and a cohort of healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects (group NC) that were considered to be within standard limits according to a neuropsychological assessment between March 2010 and March 2019. The primary endpoints were body mass index and lipid-related laboratory parameters, including leptin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol, adiponectin, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein E4, which were evaluated using multivariate binary logistic analysis.

Results

The study enrolled 200 postmenopausal women with early AD (mean ± SD age 69.34 ± 6.25 years) and 180 control subjects (mean ± SD age 67.48 ± 7.42 years). Lower HDL-C and higher LDL-C were risk factors for AD. A multivariate binary logistic regression model demonstrated that lower HDL-C and higher LDL-C were the only variables associated with the development of AD (odds ratio [OR] 21.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.47, 4.13; OR 36.35, 95% CI 1.24, 3.38; respectively).

Conclusion

Both low HDL-C and high LDL-C were associated with the occurrence of AD in a cohort of postmenopausal women.
Feasibility of using calibrated cone-beam computed tomography scans to validate the heart dose in left breast post-mastectomy radiotherapy
Authors: Tang Bin , Ma Jiabao , Xu Jinghui , Li Jie , Kang Shengwei , Wang Pei , Wu Fan , Orlandini Lucia Clara
Published: June 2020

Objective

In post-mastectomy radiotherapy, high-conformal techniques are a valid method for determining the dose distribution around a target. However, the proximity of critical structures is a reason for concern. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using calibrated cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans as a valid tool for a timely heart dose evaluation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 170 retrospective CBCT scans of 17 patients who underwent high-conformal post-mastectomy irradiation. The delivered doses that were calculated using personalized calibrated CBCT were compared with the doses planned, using the dose–volume histogram dosimetric parameters.

Results

The heart volume that was evaluated using CBCT presented a mean increase of 6%; this discrepancy impacted the heart dose in 4 of 17 patients, with an absolute increase of V25 Gy (range, 2.5%–7.6%) and an increase in the mean dose (range, 1.1–3.4 Gy). The dose for the target, ipsilateral lung, and contralateral breast remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Using CBCT to monitor the dose that is delivered to the heart is feasible, allowing for a timely shift to an adaptive plan if clinically necessary.
Analysis of subjective perception and influencing factors of different inclusive education models among prelingually deaf children with a cochlear implant
Authors: Qiao Xiao-Feng , Ren Qian , Li Xin , Li Tong-Li , Mariano Redentor S.
Published: June 2020

Objective

We aimed to explore the educational outcome and influencing factors of ongoing verbal rehabilitation training together with inclusive education among prelingually deaf children with a cochlear implant.

Methods

Prelingually deaf children who underwent cochlear implantation, rehabilitation, and had inclusive education placement were randomly divided into two groups: one group received continuous verbal rehabilitation training under inclusive education status; the other group did not receive this training. Speech discrimination scores were determined.

Results

Among 60 included children, subjectively perceived academic adaptability, peer relations, initiative communication, and teacher’s involvement under inclusive education, as well as speech discrimination scores, were all significantly different between groups. Continuous verbal rehabilitation training influenced the subjective perception of children and resulted in higher speech discrimination scores and more positive subjective perception. Subjective perception was not significantly correlated with chronological age, sex, age at the time of cochlear implantation, or duration of inclusive education.

Conclusion

Ongoing verbal rehabilitation training within inclusive education can largely improve the education placement outcomes of prelingually deaf children with cochlear implants.
Effect of preservation time of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues on extractable DNA and RNA quantity
Authors: Yi Qing-qing , Yang Rong , Shi Jun-feng , Zeng Nai-yan , Liang Dong-yu , Sha Shuang , Chang Qing
Published: June 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the quantity of DNA and RNA extractable from human formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues stored for different lengths of time.

Methods

We randomly selected 20 FFPE specimens harvested from hysteromyoma patients with uterine fibroids during 2010, 2015, and 2017 at the Department of Pathology, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences. DNA and RNA extractions were performed using a DNA/RNA FFPE kit. DNA and RNA concentrations and their OD260/OD280 ratios were determined by a NanoDrop 2000 spectrophotometer. The human β-globin gene and aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) gene were amplified from nucleic acids using a LightCycler 480 Real-Time PCR System, and PCR amplification products were electrophoresed on 1% agarose gels.

Results

Specimens that were stored for longer showed more degradation and a reduced concentration of DNA and RNA after nucleic acid extraction. However, there was no significant difference in DNA or RNA purity. β-globin and ALDH2 genes could be amplified from more than 99% of specimens.

Conclusion

We found that FFPE tissues stored for longer had a reduced quantity of extractable DNA and RNA. However, these tissues could be used for the analysis of some small target genes.
Bioinformatics analysis of different candidate genes involved in hepatocellular carcinoma induced by HepG2 cells or tumor cells of patients
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Yin Songna , Ma Ke
Published: June 2020

Objective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer with a high mortality rate; the molecular mechanism involved in HCC remain unclear. We aimed to provide insight into HCC induced with HepG2 cells and identify genes and pathways associated with HCC, as well as potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

Dataset GSE72581 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus, including samples from mice injected in liver parenchyma with HepG2 cells, and from mice injected with cells from patient tumor explants. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two groups of mice were analyzed. Then, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed. The MCODE plug-in in Cytoscape was applied to create a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs.

Results

We identified 1,405 DEGs (479 upregulated and 926 downregulated genes), which were enriched in complement and coagulation cascades, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathway, and extracellular matrix–receptor interaction. The top 4 modules and top 20 hub genes were identified from the PPI network, and associations with overall survival were determined using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Conclusion

This preclinical study provided data on molecular targets in HCC that could be useful in the clinical treatment of HCC.