bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time to Focus on the Scalp Incision Design for Chronic Subdural Hematoma: Technical Note and Experience
Authors: Xiao Juexian , Liu Yu , Gui Shikai , Wei Feng , Zhou Tong , Lv Shulong , Chen Peng , Zhu Xingen , cheng Zujue
Published: September 2021

Objective: The scalp incision design in surgery for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is important but is given little attention or is neglected by most neurosurgeons currently. Faulty scalp incision design will affect the ease of surgery, wound healing, and patients’ satisfaction. This study introduces the technique and experience used in our center regarding scalp incision with an adjustable question mark-shaped for CSDH procedures.Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of the medical records of patients with CSDH, who underwent surgical treatment that incorporated this incision design from September 2017 through December 2020. The features of concern were intraoperative scalp incision extension and postoperative wound healing. Those patients were followed for occurrences of scalp dysfunction, and their satisfaction with this design.Results: Thirty-seven patients were analyzed. For 2 patients, operative procedures were changed and scalp incisions were extended. All patients had good incision healing without complications. The outpatient or telephone follow-up 6 months after surgery revealed that 36 patients were satisfied with the scalp incision design, one patient experienced widening of incision scar. Six patients (5 women and 1 man) reported cosmetic dissatisfaction, and 7 patients (six women and one man) had mild scalp dysfunction, in daily life.Conclusion: The adjustable question mark-shaped incision used for CSDHs is a fluent curve, with a large angle, and allows a flexible extension. It ensures ease of the operative procedure, good wound healing and meeting patients’ aesthetic needs. The protocol is simple, practical, and worthy of reference by neurosurgeons, especially in primary hospitals.
Influence of Control Strategy in Risk Mitigation of Building Damage Due to Earthquake
Authors: Mamat Normaisharah , Othman Mohd Fauzi , Yakub Mohd Fitri Mohd
Published: September 2021

Building structures are prone to damage due to natural disasters, and this challenges structural engineers to design safer and more robust building structures. This study is conducted to prevent these consequences by implementing a control strategy that can enhance a building's stability and reduce the risk of damage. Therefore, to realize the structural integrity of a building, a hybrid control device is equipped with control strategies to enhance robustness. The control strategy proposed in this study is adaptive nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (ANTSMC). ANTSMC is an integrated controller of radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (NTSMC), which has a fast dynamic response, finite-time convergence, and the ability to enhance the control performance against a considerable uncertainty. The proposed controller is designed based on the sliding surface and the control law. The building with a two-degree-of-freedom (DOF) system is designed in Matlab/Simulink and validated with the experimental work connected to the LMSTest.Lab software. The performance of this controller is compared with those of the terminal sliding mode control (TSMC) and NTSMC in terms of the displacement response, sliding surface, and the probability of damage. The result showed that the proposed controller, ANTSMC can suppress vibrations up to 46%, and its percentage probability of complete damage is 15% from the uncontrolled structure. Thus, these findings are imperative towards increasing the safety level in building structures and occupants, and reducing damage costs in the event of a disaster.
Angina Severity at the Time of Revascularization in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus and Its Association With Long-term Outcomes: A Multicenter Cohort Study.
Authors: Niimi Nozomi , Shoji Satoshi , Sawano Mitsuaki , Ikemura Nobuhiro , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Inohara Taku , Ueda Ikuko , Fukuda Keiichi , Kohsaka Shun
Published: September 2021

Background: While angina severity is pertinent in determining the management strategy for patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD), its contributing factors and prognostic effect remain unclear, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: From a multicenter percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) registry, 1,911 consecutive SIHD patients without previous revascularization or heart failure between 2008 and 2015 were analyzed. Angina severity was assessed by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) functional classification at the time of PCI. We assessed the contributing factors of CCS III/IV angina. Further, the association between CCS III/IV angina and subsequent occurrence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE: all-cause death, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and stroke) within 2 years were analyzed in patients with DM and without DM.Results: A total of 771 SIHD patients (40.3% of all SIHD patients) had DM at the time of revascularization. In the total cohort, 52.4% had CCS I/II, and 13.0% had CCS III/IV angina, with less prevalence of CCS III/IV angina in patients with DM than in those without DM (11.3% vs. 14.2%, P<0.001). In patients with DM, the prevalence of unprotected left main coronary trunk lesions and proximal left anterior descending lesion increased with angina severity. The presence of severe angina at the time of PCI was associated with MACCE in patients with DM (adjusted hazard ratio 1.93; [95% CI 1.01, 3.71]; P=0.047), while no significant difference in those without DM (adjusted hazard ratio 0.82; [95% CI 0.42, 1.59]; P=0.55).Conclusions: In SIHD patients with DM that underwent PCI, severe angina at the time of revascularization was associated with complex coronary anatomies and long-term outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of evaluating angina-related health status while considering revascularization in SIHD patients with DM.
Impact of Vegetation Cover Structure on Birds' Community at Tianfu National Wetland Park in Jiangsu Kunshan, China
Authors: Ajloon Fathielrahaman. H. , Xie Dong , Junxue Shao , RuiTing Zhang , Inayng Aniefiok Ini
Published: September 2021

Vegetation cover has an essential role in wetland habitats in controlling avian populations throughout the world. The vegetation cover structure in grassland systems varies dramatically among seasons on the same sites. Variation in vegetation cover-abundance richness and diversity has been studied through one hundred forty-seven quadrate samples during summer and autumn, 2019, winter, and spring 2020. Avian spe cies richness and diversity were recorded during the same period. Meanwhile, correlation analysis results confirmed that: (1) there was no apparent seasonal difference in the abundance of vegetation cover while avian abundance was statistically different. (2) Plant abundance in summer was positively correlated with the number of avian, while in autumn it was negatively correlated. Plant and avian abundance at the genus level showed a positive correlation while maintaining a negative correlation at the speci es level (p < 0.05). However, during summer and autumn, a strong linear relationship exists between vegetation coverage and avian. The Shannon diversity index and Simpson diversity index have a positive linear relationship between vegetation coverage and a vian families and genera. Therefore, we conclude that vegetation coverage and richness significantly impact avian communities. We suggest further research into the relationship between other biological communities and farming practices in the wetlands.
PH3 and AsH3 Adsorption Through Pristine and Stone-Wales Defected Zinc Oxide Nanosheets: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Heravi Mohammad Reza Poor
Published: September 2021

The adsorption of the XH3 (X = As or P) molecules were explored onto a pure and Stone-wales defected ZnONS (SW ZnONS) through density functional theory computations. As XH3 approaches the pure ZnONS their adsorption releases -3.7 to -7.6 kcal/mol, indicating a physisorption. Also, the electronic properties of the nanosheet do not change significantly. But when AsH3 approaches SW ZnONS, its adsorption releases -23.3 kcal/mol, and electronic analysis showed that the SW ZnONS HOMO/LUMO gap reduces about ~ -27.1% and the electrical conductivity increases significantly. Therefore, the SW ZnONS can generate electrical signals when the AsH3 molecule approaches, being a hopeful sensor. τ value which calculated for the desorption of AsH3 from the surface of the SW ZnONS is 9.5 s. This indicates that the SW ZnONS has the advantage of having a short τ as a sensor for AsH3 detection.
The Clinical Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Rituximab Versus Natalizumab in Patients With Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Rezaee Mehdi , Morowvat Mohammad Hossein , Poursadeghfard Maryam , Radgoudarzi Armin , Keshavarz Khosro
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease in which the myelin sheaths of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for communication, are destroyed and cause physical signs and symptoms. According to studies, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies have significant results in the treatment of this disease. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Rituximab against Natalizumab in the patients with MS in southern Iran in 2020. Methods: This is an economic evaluation including cost-effectiveness analysis in which the Markov model with a lifetime horizon was used. The study sample consisted of 120 patients randomly selected from among those referred to the MS Association and the Special Diseases Unit of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. In this study, the costs were collected from a societal perspective, and the outcomes were obtained in the form of Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) and the mean recurrence rate. The TreeAge pro 2020 and Excel 2016 software were used for data analysis. Results: The comparative study of Rituximab and Natalizumab showed that the patients receiving Rituximab had lower costs ($ 58307.931 vs. $ 354174.85) and more QALYs (7.77 vs. 7.65). In addition, the incidence of relapse by Rituximab was lower compared to Natalizumab (1.15 vs. 2.57). The probabilistic one-way sensitivity analysis showed the robustness of the results. The scatter plots also showed that Rituximab was more cost-effective for the patients in 100% of the simulations for the threshold of >$ 37,641. Discussion and Conclusion: According to the results of this study, Rituximab had higher cost-utility and cost-effectiveness than Natalizumab. Therefore, it could be a priority for MS patients compared to Natalizumab because it reduced treatment costs and increased effectiveness.
Use of a New off-the-Shelf 3D-Printed Trabecular Titanium Acetabular Cup in Chinese Patients Undergoing Hip Revision Surgery: Short- to Mid-Term Clinical and Radiological Outcomes
Authors: Shang Guangqian , Xiang Shuai , Guo Cuicui , Guo Jianjun , Wang Peng , Wang Yingzhen , Xu Hao
Published: September 2021

Background: Revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been a challenge for surgeons. The purpose of this study was to explore the short-to mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes of Chinese patients who underwent revision THA using a new off-the-shelf three-dimensional (3D)-printed trabecular titanium (TT) acetabular cup by comparison with a conventional porous coated titanium acetabular cup, to provide a reference for the recommendation of this prostheses.Methods: A retrospective analysis of 57 patients (57 hips) who received revision THA was performed from January 2016 to June 2019. A total of 23 patients received 3D-printed cups (observation group) and 34 patients received non-3D-printed cups (control group). Clinical scores including Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Short Form 36 (SF-36), upward movement of the hip center of rotation（HCOR）and limb-length discrepancy (LLD), stabilization and bone ingrowth of cups were compared between two groups. The multivariate linear regression was used to determine the factors potentially influencing the HHS score. Postoperative complications in the two groups were also recorded. Results: All 57 patients were routinely followed up. The average follow-up durations in the control and observation groups were 43.57 ± 13.68 (24–65) months and 41.82 ± 11.44 (24–64) months, respectively (p = 0.618). The postoperative clinical scores significantly improved in both groups compared to the preoperative scores (p < 0.05). The VAS score did not significantly differ between the groups at 3 or 12 months postoperatively, or at the last follow-up (p > 0.05). The HHS and SF-36 scores did not significantly differ between the groups at 3 months postoperatively (p > 0.05) but differed at 12 months postoperatively and the last follow-up (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the postoperative recovery of HCOR and LLD was better in the observation group (p < 0.05). All cups remained stable, with no loosening throughout the follow-up period. But the observation group had a significantly better rate of bone ingrowth compared to the control group (p = 0.037). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that different cup types, upward movement of the HCOR, and LLD influenced the HHS score at the last follow-up (p < 0.05). None of the patients exhibited severe postoperative complications.Conclusion: The new off-the-shelf 3D-printed TT acetabular cup demonstrated encouraging short-to mid-term clinical outcomes in Chinese patients. It can effectively relieve pain, improve hip function, provide satisfactory biological fixation and high survival rate. But further follow up is necessary to assess its long-term outcomes.
Discovery of Deccan Inclination Anomaly and its possible geodynamic implications over the Indian Plate
Authors: Sangode S J , Dongre Ashish , Bhagat Amarjeet , Meshram Dhananjay
Published: September 2021

The rapid northward drift of the Indian plate during Deccan volcanism assumes a gradual shallowing of paleomagnetic inclinations in subsequent lava flow formations. A comparison of palaeomagnetic data produced during the last six decades reveals an inclination anomaly during Chron C29r (66.398–65.688 Ma) along with brief clockwise-counter-clockwise rotations during and after the main phase Deccan eruption. This interval temporally coincides with i) an accelerated Indian ocean spreading rates, ii) brief incursion of an inland ‘seaway’ and iii) a major drop in the sea level at the southern tip of the Indian Peninsula. Furthermore, the restoration of tilt later during C29n agrees with the withdrawal of the inland seaway and the development of a regional southward dip of the Deccan lava flow formations. Here, we produce an evolutionary model to postulate the interaction of the Réunion plume with the Indian lithospheric plate with coincident geological evidences demanding further exploration.
Experiences of Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease receiving Integrated Telehealth Nursing Services During COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Arnaert Antonia , Ahmad Hamza , Mohamed Shameera N. , Hudson Emilie , Craciunas Stephanie , Girard Alice , Debe Zoumanan , Dantica Joséphine Lemy , Denoncourt Candice , Côté-Leblanc Geneviève
Published: September 2021

Objective: Even though telemonitoring existed prior to COVID-19, the need was accelerated for patients with COPD due to the limited medical consultations and the anxiety for being infected. To our knowledge, no qualitative study has explored the experiences of COPD patients and the potential benefits of receiving integrated telehealth nursing services during the lockdown. Methods: Ten participants were interviewed after receiving telehealth nursing services for 3 months; data was analyzed thematically. Results: Irrespective of COPD severity, all participants expressed that the existing fragmented follow-up care was intensified during COVID. The telenursing services provided them with the comfort and reassurance that a clinician is available for support, advice, and care during the times of isolation. Despite diverse opinions regarding the respiratory-related questions for follow-up, all were enthusiastic about the use of the oximeter in their daily lives. None perceived sharing data as an issue, instead they encouraged the exchange across levels of care. Conclusion: Despite an appreciation for the service, it is imperative for sustainability reasons that standardized protocols are developed to balance patient preferences in terms of response frequency and the clinical data needed for a telenurse to provide appropriate interventions.
The GC-TOF/MS-based Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Altered Metabolic Profiles in Nitrogen-Deficient Leaves and Roots of Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis L.)
Authors: Lin Zheng-He , Chen Chang-Song , Zhong Qiu-Sheng , Ruan Qi-Chun , Chen Zhi-Hui , You Xiao-Mei , Shan Rui-Yang , Li Xin-Lei
Published: September 2021

Background: Nitrogen (N) fertilizer is commonly considered as one of the most omportant limiting factors in the agricultural production. As a result, modern tea production, a large amount of N fertilizer is used to improve the yield. Unfortunately, the large amount of N fertilizer input has led to increased plant nitrogen-tolerance and decreased amplitude of yield improvement, which results in significant N loss, energy waste and environment pollution.However, the effects of N-deficiency on the metabolic profiles of leaves and roots are not well understood.Results: In the study, seedlings of Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze cv. Chunlv 2 were treated with 3 mM NH4NO3（as Control）or without NH4NO3（as N-deficiency）for 4 months by sandy culture. The results suggested the N-deficiency induced tea leaf chlorosis, impaired biomass accumulation, decreased the leaf chlorophyll content and N absorption compared to Control. The untargeted metabolomics based on GC-TOF/MS approach revealed discrimination of the metabolic profiles between N-deficient tea leaves and roots. The identification and classification of the altered metabolites indicated the N deficiency upregulated the relative abundances of most phenylpropanoids, organic acids while downregulated the relative abundances of most amino acids in the tea leaves. Differentially, N-deficiency induced the accumulation of most carbohydrates, organic acids and amino acids in the tea roots. The potential biomarkers screened in the N-deficient leaves compared to Control reflected the N deficiency reduced the tea quality. Unlike the N-deficient leaves, the potential biomarkers in the N-deficient roots implied an improved stress response. Conclusions:The results demonstrated the N deficiency had different effects on the primary and secondary metabolic alteration of tea leaves and roots. The findings of the study will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the N-deficient tea plants and provide a valuable reference for the optimized N nutrient management in the tea plantations.
Alcohol Consumption by Women in the Previous Year Who Were Unaware They Were Pregnant
Authors: de Moura Adaene Alves Machado , Kaur-Aujla Harjinder , Gonçalves Angelica Martins de Souza , Júnior Fernando José Guedes da Silva , Perruci Ludmila Gonçalves , Zerbetto Sonia Regina , Fernandes Marcia Astrês , Zafar Shazia , Santos Manoel Antônio dos , Wagstaff Christopher , Pillon Sandra
Published: September 2021

Objective: To evaluate the socio-cultural factors associated with alcohol consumption by women, in the previous year, and during the gestational period (not knowing that they were pregnant).Method: This is a cross-sectional study, conducted with 112 pregnant women using Primary Health Care services in two municipalities in São Paulo state, Brazil. Sociodemographic and obstetric information tests to identify problems associated with alcohol were used.Results: The majority of participants were young, married, were of the Evangelical faith, had a low level of education and family income, did not work and lived in their own homes. The prevalence of alcohol use in the year before pregnancy was 57.1%, 6.8% drank in a binge pattern, of which 32.1% did not know they were pregnant.Conclusion: Pregnant women and women of reproductive age, who are in risk groups and have a high vulnerability, should take priority for interventions related to substance use, especially alcohol.
Associations Between Serum Total Cholesterol Level and Bone Mineral Density in Older Adults
Authors: Hu Sheng , Zhang Wenxiong , Wang Silin , Zhang Deyuan , Zhang Yang , Ye Jiayue , Guo Qiang , Su Lang , Yu Dongliang , Peng Jinhua , Wei Yiping , Xu Jianjun
Published: September 2021

Background: Osteoporosis is a major clinical problem in elderly people. The correlation between total cholesterol and bone mineral density remains controversial.Methods: We obtained records from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for 4236 people aged over 60 without a diagnosis of cancer. We analyzed the relationship between total cholesterol and lumbar bone mineral density, using the statistical packages R and Empower Stats. We described the research population and performed stratified and single factor analysis, multiple equation regression analysis, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect and saturation effect analysis.Results: A significant negative association was found between serum cholesterol levels and bone mineral density of the lumbar spine in the study population. Older adults ≥70 years of age had an inflection point at 280 mg / dl, and those with moderate physical activity had an inflection point at 203 mg / dl. The smooth curves fitted were all U-shaped.Conclusions: There is a negative association between total cholesterol and lumbar spine bone mineral density in people without cancer aged 60 or older.
Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in Immunocompetent Mechanical Ventilation Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Zhang Zhihui , Liu Xuesong , Sang Ling , Chen Sibei , Wu Zhan , Zhang Jierong , Sun Yining , Huang Yongbo , Xu Yonghao , He Weiqun , Li Yimin , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: September 2021

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation is associated with adverse prognoses of critically ill patients. However, the epidemiology and predictors of CMV reactivation in immunocompetent patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) are not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and predictors of CMV reactivation in immunocompetent patients requiring MV.Methods: A single-center, prospective observational study (conducted from June 30, 2017 to July 01, 2018) with a follow-up of 90 days (September 29, 2018) that included 71 CMV-seropositive immunocompetent patients with MV at a 37-bed university hospital general intensive care unit (ICU) in China. Routine detection of CMV DNAemia was performed once a week for 28 days (Days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28). CMV serology, laboratory findings, and clinical data were obtained during hospitalization.Results: Among 71 patients, 13 (18.3%) showed CMV reactivation within 28 days in the ICU. The median time to reactivation was 7 days. CMV reactivation was related to various factors, including body mass index (BMI), sepsis, N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and hemoglobin (Hb) levels (P < 0.05). In the multivariate regression model, BMI, Hb level, and sepsis were independently associated with CMV reactivation patients (P < 0.05). Moreover, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of BMI, Hb, and BMI combined with Hb was 0.69, 0.70, and 0.76, respectively. The duration of MV, hospitalization expense, length of ICU stay, and 90-day all-cause mortality rate in patients with CMV reactivation was significantly higher than in those without CMV reactivation (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Among immunocompetent patients with MV, the incidence of CMV reactivation was 18.3%. CMV reactivation was associated with several adverse prognoses. BMI, Hb, and sepsis were independent risk factors for CMV reactivation. BMI and Hb may predict CMV reactivation.
Comparative Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Composite to Dentin in Presence of Calcium Releasing Liners: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Tohidkhah Saba , Ahmadi Elham , Abbasi Mahdi , Farimani Reza Morvaridi , Omrani Ladan Ranjbar
Published: September 2021

Background: The aim of current study was to evaluate and compare the influence of Dycal, Lime-lite, Theracal LC, Biodentine, Resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC), and Activa Bioactive as the pulp capping material on the shear bond strength of resin composite to dentin.Methods: A total of 70 extracted caries-free molars were randomly assigned to seven groups. Six test groups were covered with various protective liners: Dycal (GD), Theracal LC (GT), lime-lite (GL), Activa Bioactive (GA), Biodentine (GB), RMGIC (GR). The control group (GC)received no liner pretreatment. Each sample was bonded to resin composite using the total-etch tetric N bond adhesive. The samples were then tested for shear bond strength using the universal testing machine at a cross-head speed of 1 mm/min until bond failure occurred. The data were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA test followed by the Tamhane post-hoc test for pairwise comparisons of the groupsResults: Independent of the type of the applied liner, all groups exhibited inferior SBS to dentine compared to the control group. GT and GR showed significantly higher shear bond strength than GB and GD, which showed the lowest shear bond strength. GL and GA also had significantly lower SBS results than GT. The mode of fracture was predominantly cohesive in GD, GB, and GT and adhesive in GA.Conclusion: This present study concludes that the bond strength of resin-composite to dentine can be affected differently using various types of liners.
Relationship Between Perceived Organizational Support And Professional Values of Nurses: Mediating Effect of Emotional Labor
Authors: Peng Chaohua , Chen Ye , Zeng Tieying , Wu Meiliyang , Yuan Mengmei , Zhang Ke
Published: September 2021

Objectives: Perceived organizational support was a benefit for the work performance of nurses, which may affect emotional labor and the development of professional values. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between perceived organizational support and professional values of nurses, and the mediating role of emotional labor.Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted on 1096 nurses in 3 tertiary hospitals in Wuhan from October2020 to Januray2021. The data were collected by a questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics, the Emotional Labor Scale for Nurses, the nurses' Perceived Organizational Support Scale, and the Nursing Professional Values Scale (NPVS-R). Spearmen correlation analysis was used to test the relationship between variables. Predictor effects were tested using hierarchical multiple regressions. The structural equation model (SEM) was used to test the mediation effect of emotional labor on the pathway from perceived organizational support to professional values.Results: Perceived organizational support was positively correlated with emotional labor and professional values (r=0.513, p＜0.01；r=0.621, p＜0.01, respectively). Emotional labor and perceived organizational support were positive predictors of professional values (β=0.249, p＜0.001; β=0.486, p＜0.001, respectively). The association between perceived organizational support and professional values was mediated by emotional labor.Conclusions: Results showed that the importance of improving perceived organizational support to encourage nurses to engage in emotional labor and promote professional values. Improving organizational support and training nurses to engage in emotional labor through providing multiple support systems, establishing reasonable incentive mechanisms, and training nurses to regulate emotions can be effective ways to promote nurses' professional values.
Femoral Periprosthetic Fracture Treatment Using the Ortho-Bridge System: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: wang wen , Long Yuntao , Qi Yubin , Zuo Guilai , Zhang Qingjie , Liu Zhenlin
Published: September 2021

Background: We undertook a comparative biomechanical study of type B1 fractures around the femoral prosthesis following cemented hip arthroplasty using the Ortho-Bridge System (OBS) and a locking compression plate/locking attachment plate structure (LCP+LAP), and aimed to determine the effectiveness and advantages of the OBS when treating this fracture type. Methods: An OBS fixation model was designed based on OBS and LCP+LAP fixation characteristics. The LCP+LAP combination (Group A) and three different OBS combinations (Groups B, C, and D) were used to fix a B1 fracture model with a femoral periprosthetic fracture. Axial compression and torsion experiments were then performed using simple and comminuted fracture models. We conducted axial compression failure, model stiffness, and torsion angle tests, and tested the vertical load of final failure. Results: When simulating simple oblique fractures, no significant difference was found in terms of stiffness between the four groups in the axial compression experiment (P = 0.257). The torsion angle of the LCP+LAP system was significantly higher than that of the OBS (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference in the torsion angle between the OBS combinations (P > 0.05). Axial compression experimental data showed that stiffness in the three OBS combinations was higher than that in the LCP+LAP system (P = 0.000). Torsion angles of the three OBS combinations were smaller than those of the LCP+LAP system (P < 0.05). In the axial compression failure test, the fixed failure mode in the LCP+LAP system involved destruction of the contact cortex at the fracture site, while the failure modes in the three OBS combinations involved destruction of the contact cortex at the fracture site and the fracture around the screws above the osteotomy. Conclusion: Compared with the LCP+LAP, the OBS showed superior biomechanical results. Furthermore, the OBS has the advantage of multiple choices and high flexibility of combinations. Stress dispersion was helpful in avoiding internal fixation failure during early postoperative functional exercise.
Gal-3BP Levels in Hospitalized Patients Correlate With COVID-19
Authors: Gallo Valentina , ISERC Team , Gentile Roberta , Antonini Giovanni , Iacobelli Stefano
Published: September 2021

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic disease is still lacking effective treatments and relying on a predictive diagnosis for early individuation of patients which will progress to a severe disease can be crucial. To this aim, the search and the identification of new molecular targets of inflammation and disease progression to be used as predictive biomarker of disease severity is important.In this work Gal-3BP was explored as a potential biomarker for COVID-19 severity. We found highly increased circulating levels of Gal-3BP in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the serum levels of Gal-3BP were higher in those “non severe” patients which progressed to a “severe” disease and correlated with levels of IL-6, a known marker of disease progression in COVID-19 patients. These results suggest that Gal-3BP could be a predictor of Covid-19 severity in early infected patients contributing to extend the panel of the other already known biomarkers associated to Covid-19 severity and progression.
Survival after Laparoscopic Radical Surgery for Early-stage Cervical Cancer in 1316 Consecutive Cases from a National Laparoscopic Training Center in China
Authors: Huang Yuhui , Cai Jing , Wang Hongbo , Dong Weihong , Zhang Yuan , Wang Shaohai , He Xiaoqi , Guo Jianfeng , Yang Shouhua , Wang Zehua
Published: September 2021

Background: A major concern about the Laparoscopy Approach to Cervical Cancer trial is the disparities in laparoscopic radical hysterectomy experience between the participating centers and the potential effects of the learning curve of minimally invasive surgery on the oncologic outcomes of patients. Thus, it is necessary to assess the survival of cervical cancer patients undergoing laparoscopy in a minimally invasive gynecology center.Methods: A consecutive series of patients undergoing first laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) for cervical cancer from May 2008 to December 2017 at a national laparoscopic training center were retrospectively analyzed. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared between groups.Results: In total, 1316 women with FIGO (2009) stage IA-IIB cervical cancer received LRH. Among them, 1114 (84.7%) were followed-up for 3 months or longer; the median follow-up period was 48 months (range, 3-144 months). In patients with stage IA, IB1 (≤ 2 cm), IB1 (> 2 cm), IB2, IIA1 and IIA2-IIB tumors, the 4-year PFS rates were 98.6%, 94.5%, 87.4%, 65.6%, 80.0% and 67.4%, respectively, and the 4-year OS rates were 98.6%, 96.8%, 91.1%, 77.4%, 85.6% and 76.2%, respectively. The 4-year PFS and OS were as high as 96.2% and 97.5%, respectively, in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of 2 cm or smaller in diameter. A stable high 4-year OS and PFS was achieved after completing 100 LRHs. In patients operated on by the same surgeon, an improvement in survival was observed after 40 LRHs. Conclusion: Favorable oncologic outcomes can be achieved in patients with IA-IB1 cervical cancer after LRH in a center with a high surgery volume.
Staged Surgical Reconstruction With Skin Expansion of A Marjolin’s Ulcer With Better Recovery: a Case Report
Authors: Xie Xudong , Hu Liangcong , Mi Bobin , Xue Hang , Panayi Adriana C. , Xiong Yuan , Chen Lang , Yan Chenchen , Lin Ze , Zhou Wu , Liu Guohui
Published: September 2021

Marjolin’s ulcers (MUs) are one of the most common tumors developed from non-healing wound with chronic inflammation or injury, specially burn scars, over many years. However, the therapy recommendations for MUs are not yet definitive. Here, we presented a case of 60-year-old man with a chronic non-healing infected wound related to MUs in the right knee. And, the wound made a better recovery after treatment with staged operation in combination with skin expansion.
Are "Clean" Cosmetic Products Really Clean? A Pilot Study on the Validity of Cosmetic Labeling
Authors: Phan Jeannie H. , Kyaw Khine K. , Tan Julia K. , Lam Emily Q. , Lin Cheng-Kuan
Published: September 2021

Background
As a result of increased demand for environmental and health-conscious cosmetics, retailers have increasingly marketed their products using terms such as “clean” or "non-toxic". Sephora, a popular beauty retailer, implemented a clean seal system to label and promote their products. This study aims to compare the toxicity concerns of clean vs. non-clean products by using the Environmental Working Group (EWG)'s Skin Deep framework.
Methods
EWG’s Skin Deep Framework was used to rank products based on their cancer, allergy and immunotoxicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and use-restriction concerns, with lower scores indicating a cleaner product (ranging 0–10). The distributions of EWG scores among clean and non-clean products were investigated and stratified by different types of products (i.e. fragrance, hair, makeup, or skincare). A multivariable linear regression model was further applied to evaluate the association between EWG scores and clean seals, adjusting by types of products, level of toxicity concerns.
Results
356 products were screened, including 180 (50.56%) clean products and 176 (49.44%) non-clean products. Clean products yielded a higher percentage of low hazard ingredients compared to non-clean products. EWG scores are positively correlated with the levels of toxicity concern for cancer, allergy and immunotoxicity, respectively. Clean products are also associated with a lower EWG score by 0.71 in the regression model. Fragrance products are most hazardous, with a 2.42 increase in EWG score.
Conclusions
Products under the binary “clean beauty” labeling system at Sephora may not necessarily capture the nuances of EWG’s ten-point scoring system and various dimensions of health concerns. It may be insufficient for consumers to solely rely on the presence of the clean seal when purchasing beauty products. Consulting multiple frameworks and sources to inform decision-making is crucial in addressing knowledge gaps. Further research and increased data availability from EWG’s database are necessary as well as public education on the application of Sephora’s clean seal.
Breast Cancer Combined with Contralateral Neck Lymph Node Metastasis. Case Report
Authors: Zhong Xiaoxiao , Ding Fengjiao , Qian Liyuan , Wu Wei , Wen Yanguang , Ding Boni
Published: September 2021

Background: Contralateral neck lymph node metastasis is rare for primary breast cancer. Its clinical stage and treatment principles are lack of authoritative guidelines. A 30-year-old breast cancer patient with contralateral neck lymph node metastasis is presented. The clinical treatment is discussed combined with current research.Case presentation: A 30-year-old woman presented with a right breast mass for 5 months and left neck lymph node enlargement for 5 days. The mammography showed a 33mm*14.3mm mass in the inner quadrant of right breast. The ultrasound showed several hypoechoic nodules on the left side of the neck. Rapid intraoperative pathological examination diagnosed right breast malignant tumor and poorly differentiated carcinoma of the left cervical lymph nodes. Then the right mastectomy was performed immediately. The patient was scheduled to administer chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, radiotherapy and endocrinotherapy after operation. The long-term efficacy remains to be seen.Conclusion: The infrequent presentation of breast cancer with metastasis to the contralateral neck lymph node can be challenged for standard therapies.
Semiquantitative Assessment of 99mTc-MIBI Uptake in Parathyroids of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Patients from Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Yu Dafu , Zou Lin , Jin Yao , Wei Mingxiang , Wu Xiaoqun , Zuo Lingjing , Zhu Di , Wu Mingkang , Wang Meifang , Li Haochen , Jiang Yong
Published: September 2021

Purpose Basing on semiquantitative assessment of 99mTc-MIBI uptake in parathyroids of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) patients from chronic renal failure, objective guidance could be given to improve the qualitative diagnosis accuracy of MIBI uptake.Methods MIBI uptake intensiveness was semiquantitatively calculated with software ImageJ. MIBI uptake intensiveness and clinical indices were compared in 3-level grouping method consisting of slight (group 1), medium (group 2) and high (group 3) MIBI uptake groups and 2-level grouping method consisting of insignificant and significant MIBI uptake groups.Results Patient age, renal failure course, hemodialysis vintage, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) were positively, but serum uric acid (UA) was negatively, significantly related to MIBI uptake intensiveness; patient age was negatively, but serum phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) ´ P were positively, significantly related to MIBI washout; oral administration of calcitriol and calcium would significantly reduce MIBI uptake and washout. MIBI uptake tendency might alter during specified course. In 3-level grouping method, such 7 indices as the MIBI uptake intensiveness, renal failure course, hemodialysis vintage, serum AKP, Ca, cysteine proteinase inhibitor C and PTH were comparable between group 1 and 2, but were significantly different between group 1 and 3, and between group 2 and 3. In 2-level grouping method, above 7 indices plus blood urine nitrogen (BUN)/Creatinine were all significantly different between insignificant and significant group with these indices except BUN/Creatinine being greater in significant group than in insignificant group. All above significant relations or differences were with p < 0.05.Conclusions Patient age, renal failure course, hemodialysis vintage, GFR, serum PTH, AKP, UA, phosphorus and Ca ´ P, oral administration of calcitriol and calcium, and parathyroids themselves could significantly influence MIBI uptake in parathyroids of SHPT patients. 2-level grouping method should be adopted to qualitatively diagnosis MIBI uptake.
Fault diagnosis of gearbox based on improved polynomial adaptive chirp mode decomposition algorithm
Authors: Cui Lingli , Peng Yuchuan , LIU Tongtong
Published: September 2021

The adaptive chirp mode decomposition (ACMD) has good time-frequency representation results in analyzing chirp signals, while there is a time-frequency ambiguity problem in the analysis of variable speed planetary gearbox vibration signals. To address this problem, a planetary gearbox fault diagnosis method based on improved polynomial adaptive chirp mode decomposition wavelet is proposed (IPACMD). Using Adaptive chirp mode decomposition, the amplitude and instantaneous frequency of multiple signal components are estimated; To avoid over-decomposition to generate spurious signal components, the similarity conditional entropy is used to optimize the adaptive chirp mode decomposition threshold ;The polynomial chirp transform (PCT) using a polynomial function instead of the linear chirp kernel in the chirp transform to improve the time-frequency aggregation of the instantaneous frequency curve of each signal component and output high-resolution time-frequency representation results. Compared with the original method, the proposed method has better time-frequency aggregation and is more effective for the analysis of variable speed planetary gearbox vibration signals. The simulation and experimental study results show that the method can effectively identify the frequency components and time-frequency characteristics of the variable-speed planetary gearbox vibration signal and realize the fault diagnosis of the planetary gearbox.
A New Approach Based on Matching Theory and Simulated Annealing for Parallel Machine Scheduling Problems
Authors: Moussa Maissa , Azar Adel , Ghatari Ali Rajabzadeh
Published: September 2021

As an extension of the classical Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem (PMSP), Unrelated Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem (UPMSP) is a much substantial issue in the modern manufacturing environment. It has been demonstrated to be a NP-hard problem. This research suggests a hybrid algorithm that combines Matching Theory (MT) and Simulated Annealing (SA) for solving an UPMSP with sequence-dependent setup time aimed at minimizing the total completion time. The hybrid algorithm is based on allocation of works to the best machine that can do it, and the determination of the order in which jobs have to be handled on the machines. The hybridization of MT and SA that integrates the features of these two individual parts is the main innovation aspect of the strategy. MT encourages the convergence, while SA promotes the diversity. Therefore, the designed algorithm can balance the intensification and diversification very well. Some tests were conducted using 16 tests for two problems to assess the efficiency of the suggested algorithm. Furthermore, the execution of the suggested algorithm with that of other meta-heuristic methods was contrasted. The outcome revealed that the performance dimensions of the suggested algorithm overrated those of other techniques.
Angiotensin I-converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitory Activity and Chemical Composition of Alchemilla Viridiflora Rothm.
Authors: Radović Jelena , Suručić Relja , Niketić Marjan , Kundakovic-Vasovic Tatjana
Published: September 2021

Alchemilla viridiflora Rothm., Rosaceae is a herbaceous plant widespread in central Greece, Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Serbia with Kosovo. LC-MS analysis leads to the identification of 20 compounds in methanol extract, mainly ellagitannins and flavonoid glycosides. Considering that different plant extracts were traditionally used for treatment of hypertension and that some of the analyzed methanol extract constituents possess beneficial cardiovascular effects, we hypothesized that some of these effects are achieved through inhibition of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). The dose-dependent activities ACE inhibitory activity of A. viridiflora and miquelianin were observed with an IC50 of 2.51 ± 0.00 µg/ml of A. viridiflora compared to IC50 of 2.59 ± 0.00 µg/mL for miquelianin. Contribution of the single compounds to the tested activity was further analyzed through the in silico experimental approach. Computational docking results showed that tiliroside, ellagic acid pentose and galloyl-HHDP-glucose exhibited even better binding affinity for ACE active site than miquelianin, which ACE activity was confirmed by an in vitro assay.
Prioritize the Sequence of Test Cases and Increase the DRE Rate by Implementing Orthogonal Array Testing Strategy
Authors: M. Sangeetha , S Malathi
Published: September 2021

Software testing is an emerging technology which is use to increase the rate of error detection as early as possible in the software testing life cycle process. Test case prioritization technique plays a crucial role in organizing the test cases in sequencing order both ascending and descending such that test cases having high priority or high severity are planned to get executed doing a proper risk-based analysis. This prioritization technique effectively addresses two important organization constraints namely “Time” and “Budget”, also improve the quality of service. The proposed work is all about how effectively we can sequence the application modules for testing during Test plan phase using fuzzy logic and how to write optimized test cases efficiently design during Orthogonal Array Test Strategy (OATS) in Test design phase of testing life Cycle.
Determinants of Enrolment for Community Based Health Insurance Scheme among Agro-pastoralist communities of Aw-barre District in Somali region of Ethiopia: Unmatched case control study.
Authors: Elmi Abdifatah , Oladeji Olusola , Robins Ann , Tahir Ahmed
Published: September 2021

BackgroundEthiopia launched community-based health insurance scheme in 2011 as part of the revised health care financing strategy to ensure universal health coverage and implementation has started in most part of the country since the launching of the scheme. However, the roll out of the scheme started in Somali Region in 2020—much later the rest of the country. The aim of this study was to assess determinants of enrollment of community-based health insurance among households in Awbarre Woreda, Somali Region, EthiopiaMethodsCommunity based unmatched case control study using a mixed approach of quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted between March and April 2021 and the study participants were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. The quantitative method used interviewer administered structured questionnaire among 216 participants (54 enrolled and 162 non-enrolled), while the qualitative method used key informant interview and focus group discussions in two rural and two urban kebeles of the woreda. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 and thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the determinants of enrollment for the community-based health insurance and statistical significance was set at p value of <5%. Result Awareness about CBHI scheme AOR = 9.41(1.16,76.19), households income AOR = 2.73(0.77, 9.57); and being a member of community-based solidarity groups AOR = 2.88(1.17, 7.12) were the determinants for CBHI enrollment and reaffirmed by the qualitative findings. ConclusionsThe enrollment for community-based insurance was determined by being well informed about the scheme, household income, and being a member of solidarity groups at community level. Given the early stage of implementation, enhancing sensitization of the community about the scheme using various community platforms, promotion of the existing community based solidarity groups/associations, diligent targeting of the poor households/indigents and ensuring linkage with any existing social protection program would help to increase enrolment for the scheme.