bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biblioteca de absortância de telhas: base de dados para análise de desempenho termoenergético de edifícios
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Arquitetura e Urbanismo, Dornelles Kelen Almeida
Published: January 2021

Este livro apresenta uma compilação de dados de Absortância Solar de telhas para cobertura de edificações, a partir de produtos disponíveis comercialmente no Brasil. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de medições em laboratório com o uso de um espectrofotômetro com esfera integradora, como parte de diversas pesquisas desenvolvidas no Instituto de Arquitetura e Urbanismo da Universidade de São Paulo, entre os anos de 2016 e 2020. Assim, torna-se necessária a divulgação de dados de absortância solar de revestimentos disponíveis no mercado nacional, medidos de forma precisa e confiável, para sua adequada especificação por profissionais e pesquisadores da área. É nesse contexto que este documento pretende preencher uma lacuna importante da área na atualidade, em que dados de absortância solar de diversos tipos de telhas foram obtidos a partir de medições em laboratório e são apresentados para consulta à comunidade acadêmica e profissional como referência para estudos de desempenho termoenergético de edifícios.
Novel Guidewire Design and Coating for Continuous Delivery of Adenosine During Interventional Procedures
Authors: Forman Mervyn B. , Brewer Erik C. , Brown Zachary R. , Menshikova Elizabeth V. , Lowman Anthony M. , Jackson Edwin K.
Published: January 2021

Background

The “no‐reflow phenomenon” compromises percutaneous coronary intervention outcomes. There is an unmet need for a device that prevents no‐reflow phenomenon. Our goal was to develop a guidewire platform comprising a nondisruptive hydrophilic coating that allows continuous delivery of adenosine throughout a percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

We developed a guidewire with spaced coils to increase surface area for drug loading. Guidewires were plasma treated to attach hydroxyl groups to metal surfaces, and a methoxy–polyethylene glycol–silanol primer layer was covalently linked to hydroxyl groups. Using polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and polyvinyl acetate, a drug layer containing jet‐milled adenosine was hydrogen‐bonded to the polyethylene glycol–silanol layer and coated with an outer diffusive barrier layer. Coatings were processed with a freeze/thaw curing method. In vitro release studies were conducted followed by in vivo evaluation in pigs. Coating quality, performance, and stability with sterilization were also evaluated. Antiplatelet properties of the guidewire were also determined. Elution studies with adenosine‐containing guidewires showed curvilinear and complete release of adenosine over 60 minutes. Porcine studies demonstrated that upon insertion into a coronary artery, adenosine‐releasing guidewires induced immediate and robust increases (2.6‐fold) in coronary blood flow velocity, which were sustained for ≈30 minutes without systemic hemodynamic effects or arrhythmias. Adenosine‐loaded wires prevented and reversed coronary vasoconstriction induced by acetylcholine. The wires significantly inhibited platelet aggregation by >80% in vitro. Guidewires passed bench testing for lubricity, adherence, integrity, and tracking.

Conclusions

Our novel drug‐releasing guidewire platform represents a unique approach to prevent/treat no‐reflow phenomenon during percutaneous coronary intervention.
Newly Diagnosed Leptospirosis and Subsequent Hemorrhagic Stroke
Authors: Li Kuan-Ying , Chou Mei-Chia , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Lin Mei-Chen , Hung Yao-Min , Chang Renin
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

Preceding infection as an important risk factor for ischemic stroke has been reported but neglected for hemorrhagic stroke, especially in young and middle-aged patients. This study investigates whether newly diagnosed leptospirosis is associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Methods:

We identified 3699 in-patients who were aged ≥18 years and newly diagnosed with leptospirosis. We also randomly selected a comparison cohort 14 796 in-patients from the general population by using a propensity score matching method (at a 1:4 ratio). We analyzed the risks of stroke by using Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results:

The adjusted hazard ratio (HR; 95% CI) of stroke for the leptospirosis group was 1.14 (0.93–1.38;
P
=0.200) as opposed to the comparison group after adjusting sex, age, and comorbidities. However, adjusted HR (95% CI) of ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke was 1.01 (0.80–1.29) and 1.58 (1.12–2.23), respectively. The strength of association between leptospirosis and hemorrhagic stroke remained statistically significant after variation of leptospirosis and stroke definitions. The post hoc subgroup analysis indicated that a patient with leptospirosis had a significantly greater risk of hemorrhagic stroke in male (adjusted HR, 1.62 [95% CI, 1.08–2.44]) and individuals between age 18 and 39 (adjusted HR, 3.67 [95% CI, 1.33–10.14]). The risk of hemorrhagic stroke among people with leptospirosis was highest in the first 2 years after diagnosis (adjusted HR, 1.97 [95% CI, 1.15–3.38]).

Conclusions:

A 2.49-fold risk of stroke was found among the leptospirosis cohort of aged younger than 39 years. Age acted as an effect modifier between the leptospirosis and risk of new-onset stroke.
Obligation to Conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (eia) in International Adjudication: Interaction between Law and Time
Authors: Tanaka Yoshifumi
Published: January 2021

An environmental impact assessment (eia) can have a valuable role in effectuating substantive rules of international law of the environment, such as the obligation of due diligence and the precautionary approach. Thus this article seeks to examine the interlink between an obligation to perform an eia, the obligation of due diligence, and the precautionary approach, focusing on temporal elements of international law of the environment. First, this article examines the interlink between an obligation to conduct an eia and the obligation of due diligence. Second, this article addresses the interlink between an obligation to conduct an eia and the precautionary approach. Third, the timing of triggering the obligation to conduct an eia must be considered. Finally, this article examines the issues of breach of the obligation to conduct an eia, before offering conclusions.
The Pandemic Showed That Big Is Fragile
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic caused major disruptions in the livestock industry. The sector that was most adversely affected in the U.S. was the pork industry. Thousands of pigs had to be destroyed on the farm when the processing plants were either completely shut down or ran at greatly reduced capacity.
Surgical Management of Sialorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Schild Sam D. , Timashpolsky Alisa , Ballard Daniel P. , Horne Sylvia , Rosenfeld Richard M. , Plum Ann W.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Chronic sialorrhea commonly occurs in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. While conservative management can provide sufficient symptom control, surgical intervention is often required. One of the most common procedures utilized is submandibular gland excision (SMGE), with or without parotid duct ligation or rerouting (PDL or PDR). This study aims to compare these surgical approaches and their outcomes.

Data Sources

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase.

Review Methods

This systematic review includes studies of patients with chronic sialorrhea treated with SMGE alone or SMGE plus PDR or PDL and reports on postintervention outcomes and complications. Two independent investigators assessed study eligibility, rated quality, and extracted data for analysis. A random effects model was used for meta‐analysis of pooled data.

Results

Of 3186 studies identified, 21 met inclusion criteria, with 708 patients: 103 underwent SMGE alone (15%); 299 (42%), SMGE and PDL; and 306 (43%), SMGE plus PDR. Overall, a majority of patients had significant improvement, with very good to excellent control of symptoms after surgery: SMGE, 82% (95% CI, 73%‐89%); SMGE and PDL, 79% (95% CI, 73%‐85%); and SMGE and PDR, 85% (95% CI, 75%‐92%). Importantly, there was no significant difference in outcomes with the addition of PDL or PDR. Reported complications included sialocele, parotitis, dental caries, and dry mouth.

Conclusion

Our systematic review identified consistent positive outcomes with SMGE for patients with chronic sialorrhea but no additional benefit when PDR or PDL was performed as a concurrent procedure.
Effects of COVID‐19 Lockdown on Otitis Media With Effusion in Children: Future Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Aldè Mirko , Di Berardino Federica , Marchisio Paola , Cantarella Giovanna , Ambrosetti Umberto , Consonni Dario , Zanetti Diego
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the role of social isolation during the lockdown due to the SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) in modifying the prevalence of otitis media with effusion (OME) and the natural history of chronic OME.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Tertiary level referral audiologic center.

Methods

We assessed the prevalence of OME among children aged 6 months to 12 years who attended the outpatient clinic for hearing or vestibular disorders during 2 periods before the lockdown, May‐June 2019 (n = 350) and January‐February 2020 (n = 366), and the period immediately after the lockdown, May‐June 2020 (n = 216). We also compared the disease resolution rates between a subgroup of children with chronic OME (n = 30) who were diagnosed in summer 2019 and reevaluated in May‐June 2020 and a similar subgroup (n = 29) assessed in 2018‐2019.

Results

The prevalence of OME in this clinic population was 40.6% in May‐June 2019, 52.2% in January‐February 2020, and 2.3% in May‐June 2020. Children with chronic OME had a higher rate of disease resolution in May‐June 2020 (93.3%) than those examined in May‐June 2019 (20.7%, P <. 001).

Conclusion

Closure of schools and the physical distancing rules were correlated with a reduction in the prevalence of OME and favored the resolution of its chronic forms among children who attended the outpatient clinic. These data could suggest that in the presence of chronic OME, keeping young children out of group care settings for a period might be beneficial to allow for OME resolution.
Association between exposure to ambient air pollution and hospital admission, incidence, and mortality of stroke: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of more than 23 million participants
Authors: Niu Zhiping , Liu Feifei , Yu Hongmei , Wu Shaotang , Xiang Hao
Published: January 2021

Background

Previous studies have suggested that exposure to air pollution may increase stroke risk, but the results remain inconsistent. Evidence of more recent studies is highly warranted, especially gas air pollutants.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify studies till February 2020 and conducted a meta-analysis on the association between air pollution (PM2.5, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm; PM10, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm; NO2, nitrogen dioxide; SO2, sulfur dioxide; CO, carbon monoxide; O3, ozone) and stroke (hospital admission, incidence, and mortality). Fixed- or random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR)/hazard ratio (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) for a 10 μg/m3 increase in air pollutant concentration.

Results

A total of 68 studies conducted from more than 23 million participants were included in our meta-analysis. Meta-analyses showed significant associations of all six air pollutants and stroke hospital admission (e.g., PM2.5: OR = 1.008 (95% CI 1.005, 1.011); NO2: OR = 1.023 (95% CI 1.015, 1.030), per 10 μg/m3 increases in air pollutant concentration). Exposure to PM2.5, SO2, and NO2 was associated with increased risks of stroke incidence (PM2.5: HR = 1.048 (95% CI 1.020, 1.076); SO2: HR = 1.002 (95% CI 1.000, 1.003); NO2: HR = 1.002 (95% CI 1.000, 1.003), respectively). However, no significant differences were found in associations of PM10, CO, O3, and stroke incidence. Except for CO and O3, we found that higher level of air pollution (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and NO2) exposure was associated with higher stroke mortality (e.g., PM10: OR = 1.006 (95% CI 1.003, 1.010), SO2: OR = 1.006 (95% CI 1.005, 1.008).

Conclusions

Exposure to air pollution was positively associated with an increased risk of stroke hospital admission (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, CO, and O3), incidence (PM2.5, SO2, and NO2), and mortality (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and NO2). Our study would provide a more comprehensive evidence of air pollution and stroke, especially SO2 and NO2.
Correction to: Sensitivity enriched multi-criterion decision making process for novel railway switches and crossings − a case study
Authors: Boghani Hitesh C. , Ambur Ramakrishnan , Blumenfeld Marcelo , Saade Louis , Goodall Roger M. , Ward Christopher P. , Plášek Otto , Gofton Neil , Morata Miquel , Roberts Clive , Dixon Roger
Published: January 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Risk factors for postoperative recurrent tricuspid regurgitation after concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty during left heart surgery and the association between tricuspid annular circumference and secondary tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Xu JinGuo , Han Jie , Zhang Haibo , Meng Fei , Luo Tiange , Tian BaiYu , Wang JianGang , Jiao YuQing , Yu HuiMei , Meng Xu
Published: January 2021

Background

To identify the association between tricuspid annular circumference and secondary tricuspid regurgitation and analyze the risk factors of recurrent tricuspid regurgitation after concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty during left heart surgery.

Methods

From October 2018 to June 2019, a total of 117 patients receiving concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty within left heart surgery were enrolled. Severity of tricuspid regurgitation was classified as 4 subtypes: normal, mild, moderate and severe. Perioperative data and mid-term outcome were collected. Tricuspid annular circumference (TAC) was measured under cardiac arrest during surgery procedure by cardioplegia. Optimal TAC and TAC index (TAC/body surface area, BSA) cutoffs of significant tricuspid annulus dilatation (moderate and severe) were obtained. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors of postoperative recurrent tricuspid regurgitation. The follow up period is 13–19 months (mean 15.5 ± 3.2 months).

Results

There was 1 patient was excluded who died after surgery. A total of 116 patients receiving tricuspid annuloplasty were included. Optimal cutoffs of significant tricuspid annulus dilatation were recommended (TAC 11.45 cm, Sensitivity 82.89%, Specificity 73.68%, AUC 0.915; TAC index 7.09 cm/m2, Sensitivity 73.68%, Specificity 85%, AUC 0.825, respectively). Based on findings of multivariable logistic regression, it has been showed that TAC index and postoperative atrial fibrillation were the independent risk factors of recurrent regurgitation after surgery. Optimal TAC index cutoff to predict recurrent tricuspid regurgitation was 7.86 cm/m2

Conclusions

The severity of secondary tricuspid regurgitation is associated with the tricuspid annular circumference. The cut-offs of significant tricuspid regurgitation (more than moderate) were TAC 11.45 cm and TAC index 7.09 cm/m2, respectively. Clinically, concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty is relative safe and effective. TAC index ≥ 7.86 cm/m2 and postoperative atrial fibrillation are the risk factors of recurrent significant tricuspid regurgitation after concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty during left heart surgery.
Acceptance of smoking cessation support and quitting behaviours of women attending Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services for antenatal care
Authors: Daly Justine B. , Dowe Sarah , Tully Belinda , Tzelepis Flora , Lecathelinais Christophe , Gillham Karen
Published: January 2021

Background

Acceptance of smoking cessation support during antenatal care and associated quitting behaviours of pregnant Aboriginal women or women having an Aboriginal baby has not been investigated. This study aimed to determine, among pregnant women who smoke and attended AMIHS for their antenatal care:

The acceptance of smoking cessation support, factors associated with acceptance and barriers to acceptance;

The prevalence of quitting behaviours and factors associated with quitting behaviours.

Methods

A cross-sectional telephone survey of women who attended 11 AMIHSs for their antenatal care during a 12 month period in the Hunter New England Local Health District of New South Wales.

Results

One hundred women contacted consented to complete the survey (76%). Of those offered cessation support, 68% accepted NRT, 56% accepted follow-up support and 35% accepted a Quitline referral. Participants accepting NRT had greater odds of quitting smoking at least twice during the antenatal period [OR = 6.90 (CI: 1.59–29.7)] and those reporting using NRT for greater than eight weeks had six times the odds of quitting smoking for one day or more [OR = 6.07 (CI: 1.14–32.4)].

Conclusions

Aboriginal women or women having an Aboriginal baby who smoke make multiple attempts to quit during pregnancy and most women accept smoking cessation support when offered by their antenatal care providers. Acceptance of care and quitting success may be improved with increased focus on culturally appropriate care and enhanced training of antenatal care providers to increase skills in treating nicotine addiction and supporting women to use NRT as recommended by treatment guidelines.
Factors for postoperative recurrence of orbital solitary fibrous tumor: an analysis of long‐term clinical follow‐up results from a Chinese tertiary hospital
Authors: Yang Peng , Liu Hao-Cheng , Qiu E , Wang Wei , Zhang Jia-Liang , Jiang Li-Bin , Liu Hong-Gang , Kang Jun
Published: January 2021

Background

This study analyzed the clinical features, imaging manifestations, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and surgical approaches of the orbital solitary fibrous tumor (OSFT), as well as the factors for postoperative recurrence of such disease.

Methods

The clinical data of 16 patients with OSFT treated in our center from 2003 to 2020 were analyzed retrospectively, and the clinical symptoms, treatment methods, and follow-up results were recorded.

Results

Of the 16 patients, 8 were females (50.0 %) and 8 were males (50.0 %); the average age of treatment was 37 ± 7 years and the median follow-up time was 74 (8, 228) months. Sixteen patients with OSFT underwent a total of 29 operations, of which 12 were transorbital approach operations and 17 were transfronto-orbital approach operations. Ten patients (10/16, 62.5 %) had recurrence. The recurrence rate of transorbital approach operations was 83.3 % (10/12), and the recurrence rate of transfronto-orbital approach operations was 17.6 % (3/17). No patients had treatment-related complications.

Conclusions

The main pathological feature of OSFT is a benign tumor. OSFT has a tendency to grow toward the cranio-orbital junction. The postoperative recurrence rate of OSFT is relatively high, so complete tumor resection is very important for prognosis. Inappropriate surgical approaches can lead to incomplete removal of the tumor and cause recurrence. Choosing the correct operation approach according to the position of the OSFT in the orbit and complete removal of the dura mater and bone affected by the tumor is crucial for the prognosis. Nevertheless, regular long-term follow-up after complete resection is necessary.
A scoping review of methods for assessment of sex differentials in early childhood mortality
Authors: Costa Janaína Calu , Victora Cesar G.
Published: January 2021

Background

While assessment of sex differentials in child mortality is straightforward, their interpretation must consider that, in the absence of gender bias, boys are more likely to die than girls. The expected differences are also influenced by levels and causes of death. However, there is no standard approach for determining expected sex differences.

Methods

We performed a scoping review of studies on sex differentials in under-five mortality, using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. Publication characteristics were described, and studies were grouped according to their methodology.

Results

From the 17,693 references initially retrieved we included 154 studies published since 1929. Indian, Bangladeshi, and Chinese populations were the focus of 44% of the works, and most studies addressed infant mortality. Fourteen publications were classified as reference studies, as these aimed to estimate expected sex differentials based upon the demographic experience of selected populations, either considered as gender-neutral or not. These studies used a variety of methods – from simple averages to sophisticated modeling – to define values against which observed estimates could be compared. The 21 comparative studies mostly used life tables from European populations as standard for expected values, but also relied on groups without assuming those values as expected, otherwise, just as comparison parameters. The remaining 119 studies were categorized as narrative and did not use reference values, being limited to reporting observed sex-specific estimates or used a variety of statistical models, and in general, did not account for mortality levels.

Conclusion

Studies aimed at identifying sex differentials in child mortality should consider overall mortality levels, and report on more than one age group. The comparison of results with one or more reference values, and the use of statistical testing, are strongly recommended. Time trends analyses will help understand changes in population characteristics and interpret findings from a historical perspective.
Association between incarceration and incident cardiovascular disease events: results from the CARDIA cohort study
Authors: Coleman Jordan , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Ning Hongyan , Allen Norrina B. , Kiefe Catarina I. , Wang Emily A. , Huffman Mark D.
Published: January 2021

Background

Incarceration has been associated with higher cardiovascular risk, yet data evaluating its association with cardiovascular disease events are limited. The study objective was to evaluate the association between incarceration and incident fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease (CVD) events.

Methods

Black and white adults from the community-based Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adult (CARDIA) study (baseline 1985–86, n = 5105) were followed through August 2017. Self-reported incarceration was measured at baseline (1985–1986) and Year 2 (1987–1988), and fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease events, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure, and all-cause mortality, were captured through 2017. Analyses were completed in September 2019. Cumulative CVD incidence rates and Cox proportional hazards were compared overall by incarceration status. An interaction between incarceration and race was identified, so results were also analyzed by sex-race groups.

Results

351 (6.9%) CARDIA participants reported a history of incarceration. Over 29.0 years mean follow-up, CVD incidence rate was 3.52 per 1000 person-years in participants with a history of incarceration versus 2.12 per 1000 person-years in participants without a history of incarceration (adjusted HR = 1.33 [95% CI, 0.90–1.95]). Among white men, incarceration was associated with higher risk of incident cardiovascular disease (adjusted HR = 3.35 [95% CI, 1.54–7.29) and all-cause mortality (adjusted HR = 2.52 [95% CI, 1.32–4.83]), but these associations were not statistically significant among other sex-race groups after adjustment.

Conclusions

Incarceration was associated with incident cardiovascular disease rates, but associations were only significant in one sex-race group after multivariable adjustment.
The Association of Metabolic Syndrome with the development of cardiovascular disease among Kazakhs in remote rural areas of Xinjiang, China: a cohort study
Authors: Yang Wenwen , Guo Shuxia , Wang Haixia , Li Yu , Zhang Xianghui , Hu Yunhua , Guo Heng , Wang Kui , Yan Yizhong , Zhang Jingyu , Ma Jiaolong , Mao Lei , Mu Lati , Liu Jiaming , Song Yanpeng , Li Changjing , Ma Zhuo , Ma Rulin , He Jia
Published: January 2021

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MS) can promote the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The objective of this study was to examine the association of MS and its components with CVD, to further prevent and control CVD in Kazakhs.

Methods

In the cohort study, a total of 2644 participants completed the baseline survey between April 2010 and December 2012.The follow-up survey was conducted from April 2016 to December 2016 and was completed by 2286 participants (86.46% follow-up rate). Cox regression was used to evaluate the association of each component and the number of combinations of MS components on the development of CVD.

Results

A total of 278 CVD patients were enrolled from rural residents of Xinjiang. The average age of the MS and non-MS groups was 46.33 and 38.71 years, respectively. Independent associations with CVD were found for elevated blood pressure (BP) (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) [aHR] = 1.50,95%confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–2.08), elevated waist circumference (WC) (aHR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.19–2.15), and elevated triglycerides (TG) (aHR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.04–2.01). Participants with one to 5 MS components had an increased HR for developing CVD, from 1.82to 8.59 (P for trend < 0.001), compared with those with no MS components. The risk of developing CVD increased when TG and WC coexisted (aHR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.54–3.04)), when TG and BP coexisted ((aHR = 1.92, 95%CI: 1.32–2.79), and when WC and BP coexisted (aHR = 1.93, 95%CI: 1.33–2.82)). However, no significant interactions were found between BP, WC, and TG.

Conclusions

Elevations of BP, WC, and TG were independent risk factors for CVD in Kazakhs. Control of these factors is important to prevent CVD in this population.
Effect of 4DryField® PH on blood loss in hip bipolar hemiarthroplasty following intracapsular femoral neck fracture – a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lucas Benjamin , Riebau Christian , Mohr Juliane , Pliske Gerald , Walcher Felix , Piatek Stefan
Published: January 2021

Background

One of the most common complications of hip arthroplasty is excessive blood loss that could necessitate allogenic blood transfusion, which is further associated with other complications, such as infections, transfusion reactions or immunomodulation. In gynecology, 4DryField®PH, an absorbable polysaccharide-based formulation, is used for hemostasis and adhesion prophylaxis. In this study, we evaluated its hemostatic effect in patients undergoing hip bipolar hemiarthroplasty following intracapsular femoral neck fracture.

Methods

We studied 40 patients with intracapsular femoral neck fractures (Garden III or IV) admitted at our institution between July 2016 and November 2017. We included patients above 60 years with simple fracture and without pathologic fractures. Patients were randomized into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received 5 g of 4DryField® PH (subfascially and subcutaneously) during wound closure. Three drainages were inserted in a standardized manner (submuscular, subfascial, and subcutaneous) and drainage volume was measured immediately before extraction. Total blood loss was calculated using Mercuriali’s formula and standard hemograms upon admission and five days after surgery. Volume of postoperative hematoma was measured using point-of-care ultrasound seven days after surgery.

Results

Volume of the postoperative hematoma was reduced by 43.0 mL. However, significant reduction of total blood loss and drainage volume was not observed.

Conclusions

We observed that 4DryField® PH had a local hemostatic effect, thereby reducing volume of the postoperative hematoma. However, this reduction was small and had no effect on the total blood loss. Further studies are warranted to improve the application algorithm.

Trial registration

DRKS, DRKS00017452, Registered 11 June 2019 – Retrospectively registered.
Thoughts, beliefs and concepts concerning infectious childhood diseases of physicians practicing homeopathic, anthroposophic and conventional medicine – a qualitative study
Authors: Mittring-Junghans N. , Holmberg C. , Witt C. M. , Teut M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Physicians who include complementary medicine in their practice are thought to have an understanding of health and disease different from that of colleagues practicing conventional medicine. The aim of this study was to identify and compare the thoughts and concepts concerning infectious childhood diseases (measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, pertussis and scarlet fever) of physicians practicing homeopathic, anthroposophic and conventional medicine.

Methods

This qualitative study used semistructured interviews. Participating physicians were either general practitioners or pediatricians. Data collection and analysis were guided by a grounded theory approach.

Results

Eighteen physicians were interviewed (6 homeopathic, 6 anthroposophic and 6 conventional). All physicians agreed that while many classic infectious childhood diseases such as measles, mumps and rubella are rarely observed today, other diseases, such as chickenpox and scarlet fever, are still commonly diagnosed. All interviewed physicians vaccinated against childhood diseases. A core concern for physicians practicing conventional medicine was the risk of complications of the diseases. Therefore, it was considered essential for them to advise their patients to strictly follow the vaccination schedule. Homeopathic-oriented physicians viewed acute disease as a biological process necessary to strengthen health, fortify the immune system and increase resistance to chronic disease. They tended to treat infectious childhood diseases with homeopathic remedies and administered available vaccines as part of individual decision-making approaches with parents. For anthroposophic-oriented physicians, infectious childhood diseases were considered a crucial factor in the psychosocial growth of children. They tended to treat these diseases with anthroposophic medicine and underlined the importance of the family’s resources. Informing parents about the potential benefits and risks of vaccination was considered important.

All physicians agreed that parent-delivered loving care of a sick child could benefit the parent-child relationship. Additionally, all recognized that existing working conditions hindered parents from providing such care for longer durations of time.

Conclusions

The interviewed physicians agreed that vaccines are an important aspect of modern pediatrics. They differed in their approach regarding when and what to vaccinate against. The different conceptual understandings of infectious childhood diseases influenced this decision-making. A survey with a larger sample would be needed to verify these observations.
Building a precision oncology workforce by multidisciplinary and case-based learning
Authors: Chamala Srikar , Maness Heather T. D. , Brown Lisa , Adams C. Brooke , Lamba Jatinder K. , Cogle Christopher R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Participants in two recent National Academy of Medicine workshops identified a need for more multi-disciplinary professionals on teams to assist oncology clinicians in precision oncology.

Methods

We developed a graduate school course to prepare biomedical students and pharmacy students to work within a multidisciplinary team of oncology clinicians, pathologists, radiologists, clinical pharmacists, and genetic counselors. Students learned precision oncology skills via case-based learning, hands-on data analyses, and presentations to peers. After the course, a focus group session was conducted to gain an in-depth student perspective on their interprofessional training experience, achievement of the course learning outcomes, ways to improve the course design in future offerings, and how the course could improve future career outcomes. A convenience sampling strategy was used for recruitment into the focus group session. A thematic content analysis was then conducted using the constant comparative method.

Results

Major themes arising from student feedback were (1) appreciation of a customized patient case-based teaching approach, (2) more emphasis on using data analysis tools, (3) valuing interdisciplinary inclusion, and (4) request for more student discussion with advanced preparation materials.

Conclusions

Feedback was generally positive and supports the continuation and expansion of the precision oncology course to include more hands-on instruction on the use of clinical bioinformatic tools.
LINC01116 facilitates colorectal cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis through targeting EZH2-regulated TPM1
Authors: Liang Weijie , Wu Jie , Qiu Xinguang
Published: January 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor globally. Meanwhile, LINC01116 has been proposed as risk factor for various tumors, including CRC. But the regulation of LINC01116 in CRC required more validated data. This study aimed to elucidate the potential function of LINC01116 in regulating cell proliferation and angiogenesis of CRC.

Methods

LINC01116 expression in 80 pairs of CRC tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissues was determined by qRT-PCR. After transfection of pcDNA3.1-LINC01116, sh-LINC01116, sh-TPM1, pcDNA3.1-EZH2 or sh-EZH2 in SW480 and HCT116 cells, the levels of LINC01116, TPM1 and EZH2 were measured by qRT-PCR or Western blot. The cell biological function of CRC cell lines was determined by CCK-8, colony formation assays, tube formation and scratch assays. RNA pull-down and RIP assays were applied to detect the binding of LINC01116 with EZH2 and H3K27me3. Binding of EZH2 to the TPM1 promoter was assessed by ChIP assay. Finally, xenograft models in nude mice were established to validate the results of in vitro experiments.

Results

LINC01116 was overexpressed in CRC tissues and high expression of LINC01116 was negatively correlated with postoperative survival. In vitro study showed LINC01116 expression could significantly enhance CRC progression, including increasing cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. Besides, investigations into the mechanism disclosed that LINC01116 could regulate EZH2 to inactivate TPM1 promoter, thus promoting CRC cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Moreover, consistent results of in vivo experiments were conformed in vitro experiments.

Conclusion

LINC01116 promotes the proliferation and angiogenesis of CRC cells by recruiting EZH2 to potentiate methylation in the TPM1 promoter region to inhibit the transcription of TPM1.
Correction to: Rehabilitation Exercise and psycholoGical support After covid-19 InfectioN’ (REGAIN): a structured summary of a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: McGregor Gordon , Sandhu Harbinder , Bruce Julie , Sheehan Bartholomew , McWilliams David , Yeung Joyce , Jones Christina , Lara Beatriz , Smith Jessica , Ji Chen , Fairbrother Elaine , Ennis Stuart , Heine Peter , Alleyne Sharisse , Guck Jonathan , Padfield Emma , Potter Rachel , Mason James , Lall Ranjit , Seers Kate , Underwood Martin
Published: January 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Performance of the ROX index to predict intubation in immunocompromised patients receiving high-flow nasal cannula for acute respiratory failure
Authors: Lemiale Virginie , Dumas Guillaume , Demoule Alexandre , Pène Frederic , Kouatchet Achille , Bisbal Magali , Nseir Saad , Argaud Laurent , Kontar Loay , Klouche Kada , Barbier Francois , Seguin Amelie , Louis Guillaume , Constantin Jean-Michel , Mayaux Julien , Wallet Florent , Peigne Vincent , Girault Christophe , Oziel Johanna , Nyunga Martine , Terzi Nicolas , Bouadma Lila , Lautrette Alexandre , Bige Naike , Raphalen Jean-Herle , Papazian Laurent , Bruneel Fabrice , Lebert Christine , Benoit Dominique , Meert Anne-Pascale , Jaber Samir , Mokart Djamel , Darmon Michael , Azoulay Elie ,   The Groupe de Recherche en Reanimation Respiratoire du patient d’Onco-Hématologie (GRRR-OH)
Published: January 2021

Background

Delayed intubation is associated with high mortality. There is a lack of objective criteria to decide the time of intubation. We assessed a recently described combined oxygenation index (ROX index) to predict intubation in immunocompromised patients. The study is a secondary analysis of randomized trials in immunocompromised patients, including all patients who received high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC). The first objective was to evaluate the accuracy of the ROX index to predict intubation for patients with acute respiratory failure.

Results

In the study, 302 patients received HFNC. Acute respiratory failure was mostly related to pneumonia (n = 150, 49.7%). Within 2 (1–3) days, 115 (38.1%) patients were intubated. The ICU mortality rate was 27.4% (n = 83). At 6 h, the ROX index was lower for patients who needed intubation compared with those who did not [4.79 (3.69–7.01) vs. 6.10 (4.48–8.68), p < 0.001]. The accuracy of the ROX index to predict intubation was poor [AUC = 0.623 (0.557–0.689)], with low performance using the threshold previously found (4.88). In multivariate analysis, a higher ROX index was still independently associated with a lower intubation rate (OR = 0.89 [0.82–0.96], p = 0.04).

Conclusion

A ROX index greater than 4.88 appears to have a poor ability to predict intubation in immunocompromised patients with acute respiratory failure, although it remains highly associated with the risk of intubation and may be useful to stratify such risk in future studies.
Mechanical test of granite with multiple water–thermal cycles
Authors: Yu Li , Peng Hai-Wang , Zhang Yu , Li Guo-wei
Published: January 2021

To study the influence of thermal shock caused by water-cooling on the physical and mechanical properties of high-temperature granite, granite was subjected to an increasing number of high-temperature (300 °C) water-cooling and thermal shock treatment cycles, and static mechanical experiments were carried out on the treated granite. The results support the following conclusions: (1) thermal shock causes an increase in the number and size of the pores and cracks within the granite; thus, its volume expands, density decreases, water absorption rate increases, and P-wave velocity decreases. (2) With an increase in the number of thermal shocks, both the compressive strength and tensile strength of the granite decrease, and there is a linear relationship between the compressive strength and tensile strength. (3) With an increase in the number of thermal shocks, the plasticity of the granite increases and its resistance to deformation weakens, which is manifested as a decrease in both the compressive modulus and tensile modulus of the granite. After 15 cycles of thermal shock, the compressive elastic modulus and tensile modulus of the granite decreased by 25.18% and 46.76%, respectively. (4) The m and s values of the damaged granite were calculated based on the Hoek–Brown empirical criterion, and it was found that both of these parameters decrease with the increase in the number of thermal shocks. The calculation results can provide a reference for engineering rock mass failure.
Cadaveric evaluation of the feasibility of glenohumeral joint denervation
Authors: Aly Amr M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of total shoulder denervation through two proposed incisions.

Methods

Total shoulder denervation was performed through an extended delta-pectoral approach and a transverse dorsal approach at the spine of the scapula. The study involved six cadavers. Course and number of articular branches from the lateral pectoral, axillary and supra-scapular nerve were documented.

Results

All shoulder joint articular branches were accessible through the proposed anterior and posterior approaches. The articular branch of the lateral pectoral nerve and supra scapular nerve were present in all the specimen. Axillary nerve articular branches were variable in number but when present anteriorly were proximal to the deltoid muscular branches and posteriorly proximal to the muscular branches to the teres minor.

Conclusion

Total glenohumeral denervation was feasible through our proposed anterior and posterior approaches. Enhanced knowledge of articular nerve branches could provide interventional targets for joint and ligament pain, with low risk of muscle weakness.
Bedside monitoring of lung volume available for gas exchange
Authors: Tran Minh C. , Crockett Douglas C. , Cronin John N. , Borges João Batista , Hedenstierna Göran , Larsson Anders , Farmery Andrew D. , Formenti Federico
Published: January 2021

Background

Bedside measurement of lung volume may provide guidance in the personalised setting of respiratory support, especially in patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome at risk of ventilator-induced lung injury. We propose here a novel operator-independent technique, enabled by a fibre optic oxygen sensor, to quantify the lung volume available for gas exchange. We hypothesised that the continuous measurement of arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) decline during a breath-holding manoeuvre could be used to estimate lung volume in a single-compartment physiological model of the respiratory system.

Methods

Thirteen pigs with a saline lavage lung injury model and six control pigs were studied under general anaesthesia during mechanical ventilation. Lung volumes were measured by simultaneous PaO2 rate of decline (VPaO2) and whole-lung computed tomography scan (VCT) during apnoea at different positive end-expiratory and end-inspiratory pressures.

Results

A total of 146 volume measurements was completed (range 134 to 1869 mL). A linear correlation between VCT and VPaO2 was found both in control (slope = 0.9, R2 = 0.88) and in saline-lavaged pigs (slope = 0.64, R2 = 0.70). The bias from Bland–Altman analysis for the agreement between the VCT and VPaO2 was − 84 mL (limits of agreement ± 301 mL) in control and + 2 mL (LoA ± 406 mL) in saline-lavaged pigs. The concordance for changes in lung volume, quantified with polar plot analysis, was − 4º (LoA ± 19°) in control and − 9° (LoA ± 33°) in saline-lavaged pigs.

Conclusion

Bedside measurement of PaO2 rate of decline during apnoea is a potential approach for estimation of lung volume changes associated with different levels of airway pressure.
Effect of tungsten disulfide nanotubes on crystallization of polylactide under uniaxial deformation and annealing
Authors: Loffredo Fausta , Tammaro Loredana , Di Luccio Tiziana , Borriello Carmela , Villani Fulvia , De Vito Saverio , Ramachandran Karthik , Kornfield Julia A.
Published: January 2021

Tungsten disulfide (WS2) nanotubes (NTs) are examined here as a filler for polylactide (PLA) for their ability to accelerate PLA crystallization and for their promising biocompatibility in relevant to biomedical applications of PLA-WS2 nanocomposites. In this work, we have studied the structural and thermal properties of PLA-WS2 nanocomposite films varying the concentration of WS2 NTs from 0 (neat PLA) to 0.6 wt%. The films were uniaxially drawn at 90 °C and annealed at the same temperature for 3 and 10 min. Using wide angle x-ray scattering, Raman spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, we probed the effects of WS2 NT addition on the structure of the PLA films at various stages of processing (unstretched, stretching, annealing). We found that 0.6 wt% of WS2 induces the same level of crystallinity in as stretched PLA-WS2 as annealing in neat PLA for 10 min. These data provide useful insights into the role of WS2 NTs on the structural evolution of PLA-WS2 composites under uniaxial deformation, and extend their applicability to situations where fine tuning of PLA crystallinity is desirable.
Molecular cytogenetical and biochemical studies on some Lupinus species
Authors: Ali Hoda B. M. , Heiba Samy A. A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Lupins are cultivated as human consumption grains and forage legumes. The chromosomes of lupins are too small to be karyotyped by conventional techniques, because they reveal a general lack of distinctive cytological features. In the current study, Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) was used to locate 5S and 45S ribosomal gene sites on the chromosomes of Lupinus albus ssp albus, Lupinus albus ssp graecus, Lupnus termis (all with 2n = 50), and Lupinus polyphyllus lindl var. polyphyllus (2n = 48), FISH together with seed storage protein electrophoretic patterns were used to find out the relationship among these species.

Results

The double-target FISH on the chromosomes of the studied species with rDNA probes revealed that the two types of rRNA genes are located on different chromosomes. The detected loci of rRNA genes partially reflected the taxonomical similarity among the two Lupinus albus subspecies and L. termis. Lupinus polyphyllus lindl var. polyphyllus was exception by having unique large chromosome mostly is covered by one signal of 45S rDNA, whereas its homologous chromosome seems to be normal-sized and have the other 45S rDNA locus. The similarity matrix among the Lupinus species as computed according to Jaccardʼs Coefficient from the SDS-PAGE, showed that L. albus ssp. Albus and L. albus ssp. Graecus are the most similar species (~ 97%), and then comes L. termis, and L. polyphyllus lindl var. polyphylus has been placed in separate clade and still the most related species to it among the studied species is L. termis (~ 70%).

Conclusion

It could be postulated from FISH and seed storage protein electrophoretic patterns that the relationships among the studied species is as follows, Lupinus albus ssp albus, is the most related species to Lupinus albus ssp graecus then comes Lupnus termis and Lupinus polyphyllus lindl var. polyphyllus at a distal position.
Adrenal Vein Cortisol to Metanephrine Ratio for Localizing ACTH-Independent Cortisol-Producing Adenoma: A Case Report
Authors: Raj Rishi , Kern Philip A , Ghanta Neelima , Uy Edilfavia M , Asadipooya Kamyar
Published: January 2021

Context

Finding the source of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-independent cortisol-producing adenoma in the patients with subclinical Cushing syndrome (SCS) and bilateral adrenal nodules is sometimes challenging. Computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography are helpful, but adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is the gold standard approach. However, interpretation of AVS is important to improve the accuracy of decision-making for surgery. We report a case and review of the literature to assess the benefit of using adrenal vein cortisol to metanephrine ratio to determine the source of cortisol production in SCS and bilateral nodules.

Evidence Acquisition

Three authors searched PubMed for data on patients with SCS who had AVS procedure and measurements of cortisol and catecholamines.

Case Description

A 51-year-old woman with SCS and hypertension crisis presented to our clinic. Paraclinical investigations revealed that she had an ACTH-independent cortisol-producing adenoma and her CT scan showed bilateral adrenal nodules. After AVS, cortisol (high to low) lateralization ratio could not determine the source of cortisol production but the cortisol to metanephrine ratio localized the source to the left side, which included the larger nodule according to CT measurements. Left adrenalectomy led to clinical and paraclinical improvement.

Conclusion

There is a possibility of co-secretion of other steroids accompanied with cortisol in the setting of ACTH-independent SCS. Moreover, cortisol measurement alone and interpretation of AVS results based on cortisol values may not help lateralizing the source of cortisol production with bilateral adrenal nodules. Therefore, we suggest applying cortisol to metanephrine ratio with the same gradient (gradient > 2.3, highest to lowest concentration) when the source of cortisol production cannot be determined by cortisol lateralization ratio.