bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reverse Remodeling With Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Burkhoff Daniel , Topkara Veli K. , Sayer Gabriel , Uriel Nir
Published: May 2021

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the past 25+ years of research into the development of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to improve clinical outcomes in patients with severe end-stage heart failure and basic insights gained into the biology of heart failure gleaned from studies of hearts and myocardium of patients undergoing LVAD support. Clinical aspects of contemporary LVAD therapy, including evolving device technology, overall mortality, and complications, are reviewed. We explain the hemodynamic effects of LVAD support and how these lead to ventricular unloading. This includes a detailed review of the structural, cellular, and molecular aspects of LVAD-associated reverse remodeling. Synergisms between LVAD support and medical therapies for heart failure related to reverse remodeling, remission, and recovery are discussed within the context of both clinical outcomes and fundamental effects on myocardial biology. The incidence, clinical implications and factors most likely to be associated with improved ventricular function and remission of the heart failure are reviewed. Finally, we discuss recognized impediments to achieving myocardial recovery in the vast majority of LVAD-supported hearts and their implications for future research aimed at improving the overall rates of recovery.
Overview of SMP-CAIL2020-Argmine: The Interactive Argument-Pair
Extraction in Judgement Document Challenge
Authors: Yuan Jian , Wei Zhongyu , Gao Yixu , Chen Wei , Song Yun , Zhao Donghua , Ma Jinglei , Hu Zhen , Zou Shaokun , Li Donghai , Huang Xuanjing
Published: May 2021

In this paper we present the results of the Interactive Argument-Pair Extraction in Judgement Document Challenge held by both the Chinese AI and Law Challenge (CAIL) and the Chinese National Social Media Processing Conference (SMP), and introduce the related data set - SMP-CAIL2020-Argmine. The task challenged participants to choose the correct argument among five candidates proposed by the defense to refute or acknowledge the given argument made by the plaintiff, providing the full context recorded in the judgement documents of both parties. We received entries from 63 competing teams, 38 of which scored higher than the provided baseline model (BERT) in the first phase and entered the second phase. The best performing system in the two phases achieved accuracy of 0.856 and 0.905, respectively. In this paper, we will present the results of the competition and a summary of the systems, highlighting commonalities and innovations among participating systems. The SMP-CAIL2020-Argmine data set and baseline models① have been already released.
Children and Cheap Print from a Transnational Perspective
Authors: Carnelos Laura , Marazzi Elisa
Published: May 2021

From their earliest existence cheap printed texts were intended to be read by a mixed-age audience, young people included. Research on children’s literature has flourished in the last decades, nonetheless the role that cheap and ephemeral print played in early modern children’s lives has been largely overlooked.

Based on both existing literature and new research in various European areas, this article asks how, where, and when a market for a distinctively children’s cheap print took shape and how transnational this phenomenon was. It demonstrates that children were avid consumers of cheap print even before they were openly addressed to in titlepages and paratexts, and that a market for them developed at different paces in early modern European countries. In some areas, books for children were produced even before the so-called birth of modern children’s literature. Furthermore, this essays shows how the evolution of printing techniques and especially the introduction of colour changed this market, making a wider range of printed products more widely affordable by juvenile audiences as well as more appealing to young eyes.
Russia and the Melkites of Syria: Attempts at Reconverting into Orthodoxy in the 1850-s and 1860-s
Authors: Gerd Lora
Published: May 2021

Having entered into union with Rome in the 18th century, the Melkite Arab community of Syria preserved their Eastern rites and traditions. The attempts at Latinization in the mid-19th century brought a split in the community and provoked a diplomatic effort by Russia to bring the Melkites back to Eastern Orthodoxy. The raise of Arab nationalism in the 1850-s and traditions of church independence created a fertile soil for separatism. The relative weakness and inconsistency of Russian support, and especially a lack of material resources and strong diplomatic pressure from France, resulted in most of the newly converted Melkites returning to Rome by the early 1860-s. The article argues that Russian church policy in 19th century Middle East, strongly bounded by the limits of Orthodox canon law was largely ineffective. The Melkite affair was the last attempt to integrate the Arab Christians in the traditional system of the “Greek” Patriarchates. Thereafter Russian diplomacy took the course of Arabizing the Patriarchate of Antioch. The episode did, however, contribute to the elaboration of a new Vatican policy towards the Eastern Catholics: respect for their rites and traditions.
New genera and species of Ptiliini (Coleoptera: Ptiliidae) with a tribal revision and key to genera
Authors: Darby Michael
Published: May 2021

The list of genera in the polyphyletic tribe Ptiliini, used as a dumping ground for difficult genera of Ptiliidae by several generations of Coleopterists, is brought up to date with recent additions and omissions, and figures and a key to the genera are provided to aid their determination. 29 new species and 3 new genera are added. It was hoped to be able to determine some generic groups within the tribe but that work must depend on further cladistical and DNA research in the future. The new genera are Cingulum gen.n., Iloptila gen.n. and Numa gen.n. and the new species are Actidium cooteri sp.n., A. minimum sp.n., A. nigrum sp.n., Cingulum orsippus gen.n. sp.n., Dipentium bicolor sp.n., D. punctissimum sp.n., D. spinosum sp.n., Gomyella intricata sp.n., G. nicoya sp.n., G. profunda sp.n., G. tripla sp.n., Greensladella cicra sp.n., G. similata sp.n., Iloptila modica gen.n. sp.n., Micridium circulatum sp.n., M. dembickyi sp.n., M. hirsutum sp.n., M. juara sp.n., M. novum sp.n., Millidium karnatakense sp.n., Numa carmen gen.n. sp.n., Ptiliodes kanchiporam sp.n., Ptiliola bennetti sp.n., P. nigra sp.n., P. peruviensis sp.n., Ptilium lisae sp.n., P. longum sp.n., P. pallidulum sp.n. and P. piceum sp.n.
“Chinese Perception of U.S. Presidential Candidates”
Authors: Hughes Jeremy M. , Swanson Brian A. , Swanson Mary K.
Published: May 2021

Little is known about the perceptions of Chinese citizens regarding U.S. domestic politics, particularly among university students in the People’s Republic of China. During their time at institutions of higher learning, U.S. students often experience heightened political awareness and increased engagement with political issues. Scholars have conducted minimal research, however, among their Chinese counterparts. Given the current political climate, as the United States and the prc have an exceptionally contentious relationship, the opinions of Chinese students regarding the most recent U.S. presidential candidates have particular interest. This case study examines 506 Chinese university students’ perspectives on U.S. 2020 presidential election candidates Donald J. Trump and Joseph R. Biden Jr. Findings indicate that there is a negative perception of Trump, a great deal of uncertainty regarding Biden, and considerable diversity among opinions overall.
Out of Place
Authors: Altink Henrice
Published: May 2021

Because hotels are a microcosm of society, they offer a useful case study to explore social inequalities, including racial divisions. This article examines the experiences of African-Jamaican hotel workers and guests from independence in 1962 till the present to demonstrate the salience of Jamaica’s race and color relations. It argues that hotel workers and guests at times challenged the racialized practices that they experienced but more often refrained from doing so because of their socialization into a long-standing ethos of “Black is nuh good” and exposure to a nationalist ideology that projected a vision of racial harmony. The article also shows that through their responses to claims of racial discrimination in hotels, a variety of stakeholders, including tourist organizations, failed to challenge the island’s racial hierarchy which placed Whites on top, light-skinned Jamaicans in the middle, and dark-skinned Jamaicans at the bottom.
“The Greek Crisis Ends here Tonight”: A Qualitative Study of Labor Market Deregulation in Greece Beyond the “Crisis” Paradigm
Authors: Poulimenakos Giorgos , Della Puppa Anna Giulia , Alexandridis Antonios , Pavlopoulos Dimitris , Dalakoglou Dimitris
Published: May 2021

The concept of crisis has frequently been used to characterize seismic historical events of the 21st century, and many scholars have interpreted it according to Agamben’s elaboration of the state of exception. Following this paradigm, the crisis period in Greece is often perceived as a violent rupture from the previous state of relative stability that spanned the whole social spectrum. We argue, however, that although the idea of exceptions and rupture may be valid for phenomena such as urban policies or social control, it does not apply in the context of the labor market. Attempting to go beyond the idea of crisis as a rupture, in this article we will illustrate how the current crisis instead masks a number of pre-existing phenomena. We do so through qualitative empirical data and analysis of workers’ perceptions regarding one of the most emblematic phenomena of the so-called Greek crisis: labor market deregulation.
A new newt of the genus Cynops (Caudata: Salamandridae) from Fujian Province, southeastern China
Authors: WU YUNKE , WANG YUEZHAO , JIANG KE , HANKEN JAMES
Published: May 2021

A new species of fire-bellied newt, Cynops fudingensis, is described from northeastern Fujian Province, southeastern China. This species forms a well-supported clade with C. orientalis and C. orphicus based on molecular phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences from mitochondrial DNA subunit two of NADH dehydrogenase and its two flanking tRNAs. Further, its genetic distance to each of the two previously described species is large. Principal-components analysis of external linear measurements differentiates the new species from C. orientalis and C. orphicus in morphological space. Geographically, C. fudingensis occupies the distribution gap between C. orientalis and C. orphicus.
A contribution to the taxonomy of Anthaxia (Cratomerus) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Anthaxiini) of East Africa
Authors: OBOŘIL MARTIN , BAŇAŘ PETR
Published: May 2021

Anthaxia (Cratomerus) tankenethi sp. nov. from East Africa is described. New synonymy of A. (C.) gebhardti Obenberger, 1924 (= A. (C.) cytharaea Obenberger, 1931 syn. nov.) is proposed. Redescription of A. (C.) gebhardti is provided. Lectotypes for A. (C.) gebhardti Obenberger, 1924 and A. (C.) cytharaea Obenberger, 1931 are designated.
Silver Abietate and β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex Doped Poly(vinyl alcohol) Nanowebs
Authors: Yildiz Aylin , Agirgan A. Ozgur , Bayramol Derman Vatansever , Ergunay Ugur , Atav Riza
Published: May 2021

In this study, guesthost inclusion complexes of silver abietate with β-cyclodextrin were prepared by kneading and physical mixing techniques, and analyzed via fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analyser (TGA). The 1:1 and 1:2 stoichiometry of
the guesthost were prepared. Obtained FTIR and TGA results showed that formation of silver abietate:β-cyclodextrin (Ag-A:β-CD) inclusion complexes occurred at a mass ratio of both 1:1 and 1:2. Furthermore, prepared Ag-A:β-CD (1:2) inclusion complex was doped in Poly(vinyl alcohol)
nanofibers during electrospinning process for obtaining nanowebs. The formation of nanowebs were investigated under scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analyser (TGA). The results confirmed Ag-A:β-CD
inclusion complex containing Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanoweb production.
Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness of Room Temperature Fabricated Manganese Dioxide/Carbon Dots Nanocomposites
Authors: Mondai Jayanta , Kumar Srivastava Suneel
Published: May 2021

The present work is focused on the fabrication of manganese dioxide/carbon dots (MnO2/CDs) nanocomposites at room temperature in situ co-participation method in an aqueous medium and characterized. Our study showed that the concentration of CDs controls the morphology
of MnO2/CDs nanocomposite and also acted as a reducing agent to convert potassium permanganate (KMnO4) to MnO2. Subsequently, nanoflowers, quasi-spherical particles, broken, and interconnected chain type of morphology was observed by adding dispersion of 0.5,
1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 ml CDs in acetone to 1 mmol KMnO4 aqueous solution in the corresponding MnO2/CDs-0.5, MnO2/CDs-1.0, MnO2/CDs-1.5, and MnO2/CDs-2.0 composites, respectively. A plausible mechanism on the transformation of morphology of
MnO2/CDs with CDs concentration is also provided. Further, the present work also focused for the first time on the application in the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding of MnO2/CD nanocomposites due to the high dielectric and conductivity. Interestingly, MnO2/CDs-2.0
(nanochains) exhibited the highest total EMI shielding efficiency (SET) of ~39.4 dB following reflection as dominant shielding mechanism due to the high aspect ratio, highest conductivity, high dielectric loss, and impendence mismatch.
Synthesis, Characterization and Optical Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles Doped with Er and Yb
Authors: Fuentes S. , Espinoza D. , León J.
Published: May 2021

This paper discusses the structure, particle morphology, and optical properties of un-doped ZnO and ZnO doped with Er3+ and Yb3+ lanthanide ion nanoparticles (NPs) through a process denominated sol-gel-hydrothermal. According to the pattern of X-ray diffraction,
ZnO:Er and ZnO:Yb is formed by a single-phase wurtzite structure with crystallites sized ~65 nm on average, and Er or Yb dopant ions in the hexagonal structure of ZnO, specifically in its distorted lattice sites. The results also suggest the possible role of oxygen vacancies or Ox–
(defects) in the energy transfer from ZnO to the Er or Yb ions with a decrease of 3.18 eV and 3.19 eV in bandgap values to a red shift.
Mixed Poloxamer Nanomicelles for the Anticonvulsant Lamotrigine Drug: Solubility, Micellar Characterization, andIn-VitroRelease Studies
Authors: Shaikh Sofiya , Patel Hemil , Ray Debes , Aswal Vinod K. , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: May 2021

Recently the applications of Poloxamers in drug development is promising as it facilitated the drug molecule for delivering to the correct place, at the correct time and in the correct amount. Poloxamers can form nanomicelles to encapsulate hydrophobic drugs in order to increase solubility, stability and facilitate delivery at target. In this context, the solubilization of anticonvulsant lamotrigine (LMN) drug in a chain of Poloxamers containing different polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide noieties were examined. The results showed better solubilization of LMN in Poloxamers contain low CMTs while poor with Poloxamers having high CMTs. Systematic investigation of two mixed Poloxamer nanomicelles (P407:P403 and P407:P105) for LMN bioavailability at body temperature (37 °C) were investigated. The solubility of LMN was enhanced in mixed P407:P403 nanomicelles with the amount of P403 and reduced in mixed P407:P105 nanomicelles with the amount of P105. LMN encapsulated mixed Poloxamer nanomicelles were found spherical in shape with ~25 nm Dhsizes. TheIn-Vitrorelease profiles of mixed Poloxamer nanomicelles demonstrated the biphasic model with initial burst release and then slowly release of LMN. Better biocompatibility of LMN in the mixed P407:P403 nanomicelles was confirmed with stability data. The results of this work were proven the mixed P407:P403 nanomicelles as efficient nanocarriers for LMN.
Effect of Ce3+ Ions Doped NiFe2O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles on Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B and Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Geetha K. , Udhayakumar R.
Published: May 2021

In this study, spinel NiCexFe2–XO4 (x = 0.0 - 0.5) nanoparticles (NPs) was synthesized by microwave combustion technique (MCT) utilizing the fuel of Aloe vera plant extract. The establishment of spinel cubic crystal structure was ensured
by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) technique. The particles like nanostructured morphology were confirmed by high-resolution scanning electron microscope (HRSEM). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) studies confirmed the formation of spinel ferrite structure and ensured that no other elements were
present. Magnetic parameters such as remanant magnetisation (Mr), coercivity (He) and saturation magnetization (Ms) were calculated from the magnetic hysteresis (M-H) loops, which exhibited ferromagnetic behaviour. The photocatalytic behavior was investigated by visible light treatment for
the photocatalytic degradation (PCD) of rhodamine B (Rh-B) dye and the sample NiCe0.3Fe1.7O4 exhibits higher PCD efficiency (93.88%) than other compositions. The antibacterial activities of gram-positive S. aureus, B. subtilis, gramnegative K. pneumonia
and E. coli have been investigated using undoped and Ce3+ substituted NiFe2O4 NPs and observed higher activity, which indicated that, they can be used in the bio-medical applications.
Best Practices for Modeling Egocentric Social Network Data and Health Outcomes
Authors: Burgette Jacqueline M. , Rankine Jacquelin , Culyba Alison J. , Chu Kar-Hai , Carley Kathleen M.
Published: May 2021

Objective/Aim:

We describe best practices for modeling egocentric networks and health outcomes using a five-step guide.

Background:

Social network analysis (SNA) is common in social science fields and has more recently been used to study health-related topics including obesity, violence, substance use, health organizational behavior, and healthcare utilization. SNA, alone or in conjunction with spatial analysis, can be used to uniquely evaluate the impact of the physical or built environment on health. The environment can shape the presence, quality, and function of social relationships with spatial and network processes interacting to affect health outcomes. While there are some common measures frequently used in modeling the impact of social networks on health outcomes, there is no standard approach to social network modeling in health research, which impacts rigor and reproducibility.

Methods:

We provide an overview of social network concepts and terminology focused on egocentric network data. Egocentric, or personal networks, take the perspective of an individual who identifies their own connections (alters) and also the relationships between alters.

Results:

We describe best practices for modeling egocentric networks and health outcomes according to the following five-step guide: (1) model selection, (2) social network exposure variable and selection considerations, (3) covariate selection related to sociodemographic and health characteristics, (4) covariate selection related to social network characteristics, and (5) analytic considerations. We also present an example of SNA.

Conclusions:

SNA provides a powerful repertoire of techniques to examine how relationships impact attitudes, experiences, and behaviors—and subsequently health.
Exploring genetic resistance to infectious salmon anaemia virus in Atlantic salmon by genome-wide association and RNA sequencing
Authors: Gervais O. , Barria A. , Papadopoulou A. , Gratacap R. L. , Hillestad B. , Tinch A. E. , Martin S. A. M. , Robledo D. , Houston R. D.
Published: May 2021

Background

Infectious Salmonid Anaemia Virus (ISAV) causes a notifiable disease that poses a large threat for Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) aquaculture worldwide. There is no fully effective treatment or vaccine, and therefore selective breeding to increase resistance to ISAV is a promising avenue for disease prevention. Genomic selection and potentially genome editing can be applied to enhance host resistance, and these approaches benefit from improved knowledge of the genetic and functional basis of the target trait. The aim of this study was to characterise the genetic architecture of resistance to ISAV in a commercial Atlantic salmon population and study its underlying functional genomic basis using RNA Sequencing.

Results

A total of 2833 Atlantic salmon parr belonging to 194 families were exposed to ISAV in a cohabitation challenge in which cumulative mortality reached 63% over 55 days. A total of 1353 animals were genotyped using a 55 K SNP array, and the estimate of heritability for the trait of binary survival was 0.13–0.33 (pedigree-genomic). A genome-wide association analysis confirmed that resistance to ISAV was a polygenic trait, albeit a genomic region in chromosome Ssa13 was significantly associated with resistance and explained 3% of the genetic variance. RNA sequencing of the heart of 16 infected (7 and 14 days post infection) and 8 control fish highlighted 4927 and 2437 differentially expressed genes at 7 and 14 days post infection respectively. The complement and coagulation pathway was down-regulated in infected fish, while several metabolic pathways were up-regulated. The interferon pathway showed little evidence of up-regulation at 7 days post infection but was mildly activated at 14 days, suggesting a potential crosstalk between host and virus. Comparison of the transcriptomic response of fish with high and low breeding values for resistance highlighted TRIM25 as being up-regulated in resistant fish.

Conclusions

ISAV resistance shows moderate heritability with a polygenic architecture, but a significant QTL was detected on chromosome 13. A mild up-regulation of the interferon pathway characterises the response to the virus in heart samples from this population of Atlantic salmon, and candidate genes showing differential expression between samples with high and low breeding values for resistance were identified.
Genetic control of iron bioavailability is independent from iron concentration in a diverse winter wheat mapping population
Authors: Wright Tally I.C. , Gardner Keith A. , Glahn Raymond P. , Milner Matthew J.
Published: May 2021

Background

Anemia is thought to affect up to 1.6 billion people worldwide. One of the major contributors to low iron (Fe) absorption is a higher proportion of cereals compared to meats and pulse crops in people’s diets. This has now become a problem in both the developed and developing world, as a result of both modern food choice and food availability. Bread wheat accounts for 20 % of the calories consumed by humans and is an important source of protein, vitamins and minerals meaning it could be a major vehicle for bringing more bioavailable Fe into the diet.

Results

To investigate whether breeding for higher concentrations of Fe in wheat grains could help increase Fe absorption, a multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population, encompassing more than 80 % of UK wheat polymorphism, was grown over two seasons in the UK. The population was phenotyped for both Fe concentration and Fe bioavailability using an established Caco-2 cell bioassay. It was found that increasing Fe concentrations in the grains was not correlated with higher Fe bioavailability and that the underlying genetic regions controlling grain Fe concentrations do not co-localise with increased Fe absorption. Furthermore, we show that phytate concentrations do not correlate with Fe bioavailability in our wheat population and thus phytate-binding is insufficient to explain the lack of correlation between Fe bioavailability and Fe concentrations in the wheat grain. Finally, we observed no (Fe bioavailability) or low (Fe concentration) correlation between years for these traits, confirming that both are under strong environmental influence.

Conclusions

This suggests that breeders will have to select not only for Fe concentrations directly in grains, but also increased bioavailability. However the use of numerous controls and replicated trials limits the practicality of adoption of screening by Caco-2 cells by many breeders.
Optimal margins for early stage peripheral lung adenocarcinoma resection
Authors: Yin Pan , Yue Bingqing , Zhang Ji , Liu Dong , Bai Dongyu , Zhao Guang , Huang Chutong , Geng Guojun , Jiang Jie , Su Yongxiang , Yu Xiuyi , Chen Jingyu
Published: May 2021

Background

A pathologically confirmed negative margin is required when performing sublobar resection in patients with early stage peripheral lung adenocarcinoma. However, the optimal margin distance to ensure complete tumor resection while preserving healthy lung tissue remains unknown. We aimed to establish a reliable distance range for negative margins.

Methods

A total of 52 intraoperative para-cancer tissue specimens from patients with peripheral lung adenocarcinoma with pathological tumors ≤2 cm in size were examined. Depending on the distance from the tumor edge (D), the para-cancer tissues were divided into the following five groups: D < 0.5 cm (group I); 0.5 cm ≤ D < 1.0 cm (group II); 1.0 cm ≤ D < 1.5 cm (group III); 1.5 cm ≤ D < 2.0 cm (group IV); and D ≥ 2.0 cm (group V). During pathological examination of the specimens under a microscope, the presence of atypical adenomatous hyperplasia or more severe lesions was considered unsafe, whereas the presence of normal lung tissue or benign hyperplasia was considered safe.

Results

Group V, in which the margin was the farthest from the tumor edge, was the safest. There were significant safety differences in between groups I and V (χ2 = 26.217, P < 0.001). Significant safety differences also existed between groups II and V (χ2 = 9.420, P < 0.005). There were no significant safety differences between group III or IV and group V (P = 0.207; P = 0.610).

Conclusions

We suggest that when performing sublobar resection in patients with early stage peripheral lung adenocarcinoma with pathological tumor sizes ≤2 cm, the resection margin distance should be ≥1 cm to ensure a negative margin.
Postoperative urinary retention after pelvic organ prolapse surgery: influence of peri-operative factors and trial of void protocol
Authors:   for the Calgary Women’s Pelvic Health Research Group, Anglim B. C. , Ramage K. , Sandwith E. , Brennand E. A.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Transient postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is common after pelvic floor surgery. We aimed to determine the association between peri-operative variables and POUR and to determine the number of voids required for post-void residuals (PVRs) to normalize postoperatively.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 992 patients undergoing pelvic floor surgery at a tertiary referral centre from January 2015 to October 2017. Variables assessed included: age, BMI, ASA score, anaesthesia type, type of surgery, length of postoperative stay, surgeon, bladder protocol used, and number of PVRs required to “pass” the protocol.

Results

Significant risk factors for POUR included: placement of MUS during POP surgery, anterior repair and hysterectomy with concomitant sacrospinous vault suspension. A total of 25.1% were discharged requiring catheterization. Patients receiving a concomitant mid-urethral sling (MUS) were 2.2 (95% CI1.6–2.9) and 2.3 (95% CI 1.8–3.1) times more likely to have elevated PVR after their second TOV and third TOV (p < 0.0001), respectively, compared with those without concomitant MUS. Permitting a third TOV allowed an additional 10% of women to pass the voiding protocol before discharge. The median number of voids to pass protocol was 2. An ASA > 2 and placement of MUS were associated with increasing number of voids needed to pass protocol.

Conclusions

While many women passed protocol by the second void, using the 3rd void as a cut point to determine success would result in fewer women requiring catheterization after discharge. Prior to pelvic floor surgery, women should be counselled regarding POUR probability to allow for management of postoperative expectations.
Lethal infection caused by Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in black swans (Cygnus atratus)
Authors: Feng Shengyong , Chang Han , Wang Yutian , Luo Fubing , Wu Qiaoxing , Han Shuyi , He Hongxuan
Published: May 2021

Background

Tetratrichomonas gallinarum is parasitic protozoa with a wide host range. However, its lethal infection is rare reported.

Case presentation

Here, we described the first lethal cases of T. gallinarum infection in black swans in China. Five black swans died within a week in succession without obvious symptoms except mild diarrhea. At necropsy, severe lesions were observed in caeca with thickened caecal walls and hemorrhages in the mucosa. A large number of moving trophozoites were found in the contents of the cecum by microscopic examination. The livers were enlarged with multiple bleeding spots on the surface. Histopathology of the livers showed mononuclear cell infiltration and moderate hyperplasia of fibrous tissue. The histopathology of the cecum showed that the villi of the cecum were edematous. Finally, the presence of T. gallinarum was determined by specific PCR andin-situ hybridization assay. Additionally, common pathogens that can cause similar symptoms were excluded.

Conclusions

The death of the black swan was caused by T. gallinarum, suggesting that the parasite might be a new threat to the Cygnus birds.
Hydrogen/oxygen therapy for the treatment of an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: results of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Ze-Guang , Sun Wu-Zhuang , Hu Jie-Ying , Jie Zhi-Jun , Xu Jin-Fu , Cao Jie , Song Yuan-Lin , Wang Chang-Hui , Wang Jing , Zhao Hui , Guo Zhong-Liang , Zhong Nan-Shan
Published: May 2021

Background

To investigate whether the administration of hydrogen/oxygen mixture was superior to oxygen in improving symptoms in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD).

Methods

This prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial in 10 centres enrolled patient with AECOPD and a Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale (BCSS) score of at least 6 points. Eligible patients were randomly assigned (in a 1:1 ratio) to receive either hydrogen/oxygen mixture or oxygen therapy. Primary endpoint was the change from baseline in BCSS score at day 7. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded to evaluate safety.

Results

Change of BCSS score in Hydrogen/oxygen group was larger than that in Oxygen group (− 5.3 vs. − 2.4 point; difference: − 2.75 [95% CI − 3.27 to − 2.22], meeting criteria for superiority). Similar results were observed in other time points from day 2 through day 6. There was a significant reduction of Cough Assessment Test score in Hydrogen/oxygen group compared to control (− 11.00 vs. − 6.00, p < 0.001). Changes in pulmonary function, arterial blood gas and noninvasive oxygen saturation did not differ significantly between groups as well as other endpoints. AEs were reported in 34 (63.0%) patients in Hydrogen/oxygen group and 42 (77.8%) in Oxygen group. No death and equipment defects were reported during study period.

Conclusions

The trial demonstrated that hydrogen/oxygen therapy is superior to oxygen therapy in patient with AECOPD with acceptable safety and tolerability profile. Trial registration: Name of the registry: U.S National Library of Medicine Clinical Trials; Trial registration number: NCT04000451; Date of registration: June 27, 2019-Retrospectively registered; URL of trial registry record: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04000451?term=04000451&draw=2&rank=1.
The association of insulinemic potential of diet and lifestyle with the risk of insulin-related disorders: a prospective cohort study among participants of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Mokhtari Ebrahim , Farhadnejad Hossein , Teymoori Farshad , Mirmiran Parvin , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: May 2021

Background

We aim to assess the association of empirical dietary (EDIH) and lifestyle (ELIH) index for hyperinsulinemia with the risk of insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, insulin sensitivity, and β-cell dysfunction in Iranian adults.

Methods

In this prospective study, a total of 1244 men and women aged ≥ 20 years were selected among participants of the Tehran lipid and glucose study and followed for 3.2 years. Dietary intakes were assessed using a valid semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Dietary and lifestyle insulinemic potential indices were calculated using dietary intake, body mass index, and physical activity information. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the associated risk of a 3-year incidence of insulin-related disorders.

Results

The mean ± SD age and BMI of all eligible participants (42.7% males) were 43.0 ± 13.0 and 27.4 ± 4.9 in the study's baseline. After adjusting for all potential confounders, participants in the highest tertile of ELIH score had a greater risk of developing hyperinsulinemia (OR:2.42, 95%CI:1.52–3.86, P for trend =  < 0.001), insulin resistance (OR:2.71, 95%CI:1.75–4.18, P for trend =  < 0.001) and insulin insensitivity (OR:2.65, 95%CI: 1.72–4.10, P for trend =  < 0.001) compared with those in the lowest tertile. However, the risk of incident β-cell dysfunction was lower in individuals with a higher score of ELIH in comparison to those with the lowest score (OR:0.30, 95%CI:0.19–0.45, P for trend =  < 0.001).

Conclusions

Empirical lifestyle index for hyperinsulinemia was directly associated with insulin resistance, insulin insensitivity, and hyperinsulinemia and was inversely associated with β-cells dysfunction.
Low-grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer: a comprehensive review and update for radiologists
Authors: Amante Sofia , Santos Filipa , Cunha Teresa Margarida
Published: May 2021

Low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC) is an infrequent subtype of ovarian cancer, corresponding to 5% of epithelial neoplasms. This subtype of ovarian carcinoma characteristically has molecular features, pathogenesis, clinical behaviour, sensitivity to chemotherapy, and prognosis distinct to high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC). Knowing the difference between LGSC and other ovarian serous tumours is vital to guide clinical management, which currently is only possible histologically. However, imaging can provide several clues that allow differentiating LGSC from other tumours and enable precise staging and follow-up of ovarian cancer treatment. Characteristically, LGSC appears as mixed lesions with variable papillary projections and solid components, usually in different proportions from those detected in serous borderline tumour and HGSC. Calcified extracellular bodies, known as psammoma bodies, are also a common feature of LGSC, frequently detectable within lymphadenopathies and metastases associated with this type of tumour. In addition, the characterisation of magnetic resonance imaging enhancement also plays an essential role in calculating the probability of malignancy of these lesions. As such, in this review, we discuss and update the distinct radiological modalities features and the clinicopathologic characteristics of LGSC to allow radiologists to be familiarised with them and to narrow the differential diagnosis when facing this type of tumour.
Post-reconstruction enhancement of [18F]FDG PET images with a convolutional neural network
Authors: Ly John , Minarik David , Jögi Jonas , Wollmer Per , Trägårdh Elin
Published: May 2021

Background

The aim of the study was to develop and test an artificial intelligence (AI)-based method to improve the quality of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) images.

Methods

A convolutional neural network (CNN) was trained by using pairs of excellent (acquisition time of 6 min/bed position) and standard (acquisition time of 1.5 min/bed position) or sub-standard (acquisition time of 1 min/bed position) images from 72 patients. A test group of 25 patients was used to validate the CNN qualitatively and quantitatively with 5 different image sets per patient: 4 min/bed position, 1.5 min/bed position with and without CNN, and 1 min/bed position with and without CNN.

Results

Difference in hotspot maximum or peak standardized uptake value between the standard 1.5 min and 1.5 min CNN images fell short of significance. Coefficient of variation, the noise level, was lower in the CNN-enhanced images compared with standard 1 min and 1.5 min images. Physicians ranked the 1.5 min CNN and the 4 min images highest regarding image quality (noise and contrast) and the standard 1 min images lowest.

Conclusions

AI can enhance [18F]FDG-PET images to reduce noise and increase contrast compared with standard images whilst keeping SUVmax/peak stability. There were significant differences in scoring between the 1.5 min and 1.5 min CNN image sets in all comparisons, the latter had higher scores in noise and contrast. Furthermore, difference in SUVmax and SUVpeak fell short of significance for that pair. The improved image quality can potentially be used either to provide better images to the nuclear medicine physicians or to reduce acquisition time/administered activity.
Energy Absorption Characteristics of PVC Coarse Aggregate Concrete under Impact Load
Authors: Hu Shi , Tang Huaming , Han Shenyao
Published: May 2021

In this paper, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coarse aggregate with different mixing contents is used to solve the problems of plastic pollution, low energy absorption capacity and poor damage integrity, which provides an important reference for PVC plastic concrete used in the initial support structures of highway tunnels and coal mine roadway. At the same time, the energy absorption characteristics and their relationship under different impact loads are studied, which provides an important reference for predicting the energy absorption characteristics of concrete under other PVC aggregate content or higher impact speed. This study replaced natural coarse aggregate in concrete with different contents and equal volume of well-graded flaky PVC particles obtained by crushing PVC soft board. Also, slump, compression, and splitting strength tests, a free falling low-speed impact test of steel balls and a high-speed impact compression test of split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) were carried out. Results demonstrate that the static and dynamic compressive strength decreases substantially, and the elastic modulus and slump decrease slowly with the increase of the mixing amount of PVC aggregate (0–30%). However, the energy absorption rate under low-speed impact and the specific energy absorption per MPa under high-speed impact increase obviously, indicating that the energy absorption capacity is significantly enhanced. Regardless of the mixing amount of PVC aggregate, greater strain rate can significantly enhance the dynamic compressive strength and the specific energy absorption per MPa. After the uniaxial compression test or the SHPB impact test, the relative integrity of the specimen is positively correlated with the mixing amount of PVC aggregate. In addition, the specimens are seriously damaged with the increase of the impact strain rate. When the PVC aggregate content is 20%, the compressive strength and splitting strength of concrete are 33.8 MPa and 3.26 MPa, respectively, the slump is 165 mm, the energy absorption rate under low-speed impact is 89.5%, the dynamic compressive strength under 0.65 Mpa impact air pressure is 58.77 mpa, and the specific energy absorption value per MPa is 13.33, which meets the requirements of shotcrete used in tunnel, roadway support and other impact loads. There is a linear relationship between the energy absorption characteristics under low-speed impact and high-speed impact. The greater the impact pressure, the larger the slope of the fitting straight line. The slope and intercept of the fitting line also show a good linear relationship with the increase of impact pressure. The conclusions can be used to predict the energy absorption characteristics under different PVC aggregate content or higher-speed impact pressure, which can provide important reference for safer, more economical, and environmental protection engineering structure design.
Healthcare in a pure gatekeeping system: utilization of primary, mental and emergency care in the prison population over time
Authors: Spycher Jacques , Dusheiko Mark , Beaupère Pascale , Gravier Bruno , Moschetti Karine
Published: May 2021

Background

This study investigates the prisoner and prison-level factors associated with healthcare utilization (HCU) and the dynamic effects of previous HCU and health events. We analyze administrative data collected on annual adult prisoner-stay HCU (n = 10,136) including physical and mental chronic disease diagnoses, acute health events, penal circumstances and prison-level factors between 2013 and 2017 in 4 prisons of Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. Utilization of four types of health services: primary, nursing, mental and emergency care; are assessed using multivariate and multi-level negative binomial regressions with fixed/random effects and dynamic models conditional on prior HCU and lagged health events.

Results

In a prison setting with health screening on detention, removal of financial barriers to care and a nurse-led gatekeeping system, we find that health status, socio-demographic characteristics, penal history, and the prison environment are associated with HCU overtime. After controlling for chronic and past acute illnesses, female prisoners have higher HCU, younger adults more emergencies, and prisoners from Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Americas lower HCU. New prisoners, pretrial detainees or repeat offenders utilize more all types of care. Overcrowding increases primary care but reduces utilization of mental and emergency services. Higher expenditure on medical staff resources is associated with more primary care visits and less emergency visits. The dynamics of HCU across types of care shows persistence over time related to emergency use, previous somatic acute illnesses, and acting out events. There is also evidence of substitution between psychiatric and primary care.

Conclusions

The prison healthcare system provides an opportunity to diagnose and treat unmet health needs for a marginalized population. Access to psychiatric and chronic disease management during incarceration and prevention of emergency or acute events can reduce future demand for care. Prioritization of high-risk patients and continuity of care inside and outside of prisons may reduce public health pressures in the criminal system. The prison environment and prisoners’ penal circumstances impacts healthcare utilization, suggesting better coordination between the criminal justice and prison health systems is required.
Clinical considerations for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a comprehensive literature review
Authors: Kawahara Mampei , Kuroshima Shinichiro , Sawase Takashi
Published: May 2021

Background

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), which was first reported as bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) in bisphosphonate users, is a rare but severe soft and hard tissue disease induced by several types of medications. There has been a deluge of information about MRONJ, such as epidemiology, risk factors, clinical recommendations for dental treatment to prevent it, and treatment strategies in medication-prescribed users. The aim of this study was to comprehensively review recent articles and provide the current scientific information about MRONJ, especially clinical considerations or recommendations for dental treatment to prevent its occurrence.

Materials and methods

The current literature review was mainly based on 14 systematic reviews with or without meta-analysis, 4 position papers, 1 consensus statement, 1 clinical guideline, and 2 clinical reviews regarding MRONJ after a PubMed database and manual searches according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Moreover, 53 articles were selected by manual search in regard to all references from selected articles and other articles identified on the PubMed search, irrespective of publication date, and inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

The incidence and prevalence of MRONJ are relatively low, although they are clearly higher in cancer patients receiving high-dose antiresorptive agents or angiogenesis inhibitors rather than osteoporosis patients receiving oral bisphosphonates or denosumab. There are many types of local, systemic, and other risk factors for the development of MRONJ. Clinical recommendations are provided for each clinical situation of patients to prevent MRONJ. There are also treatment strategies for MRONJ in each stage.

Conclusions

General dentists should perform appropriate dental treatment to prevent MRONJ in the patients prior to or when receiving medications that could induce MRONJ. Moreover, there are treatment strategies for MRONJ in each stage that oral surgeons could follow. Adequate and updated clinical information regarding MRONJ based on scientific data is required whenever possible.
Laparoscopic surgical treatment for hydrocele of canal of Nuck: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Liming , Maejima Taku , Fukahori Susumu , Shun Katayose , Yoshikawa Daitaro , Kono Toru
Published: May 2021

Background

Hydrocele of canal of Nuck (HCN) is a rare disease in adult female. The diagnosis and treatment of HCN is still a challenge for surgeons.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old female presented with recent onset of occasional pain during exercise and an asymptomatic left groin swelling. Ultrasonography results were suspicious for left inguinal hernia incarceration and computed tomography (CT) scan showed no intestinal obstruction, which was considered as HCN. Laparoscopic hydrocelectomy of the HCN and a routine laparoscopic hernia repair via the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach were performed. Postoperative pathology showed no malignant lesions or endometriosis.

Conclusions

The preoperative diagnosis of HCN is extremely important. Surgeons should choose appropriate surgical methods for different anatomical HCNs based on the preoperative diagnosis.