bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed rupture of intracranial aneurysms after placement of intra-luminal flow diverter
Authors: Hou Kun , Li Guichen , Lv Xianli , Xu Baofeng , Xu Kan , Yu Jinlu
Published: August 2020

Background

Though flow diverter is a safe and efficient modality, some patients can experience delayed aneurysmal rupture. The mechanism of delayed rupture is still obscure to us.

Methods

We performed a systematic search in the PubMed database for patients with delayed rupture of intracranial aneurysms after flow diverter placement.

Results

A total of 36 articles reporting on 60 patients were included in the final analysis. Of the 49 patients with description of presenting symptoms, six (12.2%) patients were incidentally diagnosed, 39 (87.8%) patients were admitted for aneurysmal rupture or mass effect. Multiple flow diverters were used in 38.3% (18/47) of the patients. Coil assistance was applied in 13.0% (7/54) of the patients. Delayed aneurysmal rupture led to intracranial hemorrhage or carotid–cavernous sinus fistula (CCF) in 76.8% (43/56) and 23.2% (13/56) of the patients, respectively. Of the 55 patients with description of outcome, 14 (25.5%) patients achieved good recovery, one (1.8%) patient was severely disabled, 40 (72.7%) patients died. All of the patients in the CCF group survived and experienced good recovery.

Conclusion

Increased intra-aneurysmal pressure, destabilization of the aneurysm wall by intra-aneurysmal thrombus, persistent residual intra-aneurysmal flow, characteristics of the specific aneurysm, and mechanical injury by the flow diverter might conjointly contribute to the final delayed rupture. There has been no established preventive measure to decrease the incidence of delayed rupture yet. The treatment and outcome depend on the presentation of delayed rupture. Patients presenting with aneurysm-related intracranial hemorrhage have a dismal outcome. Those presenting with CCFs usually have a satisfactory recovery.
Visualization of 3D Models Through Virtual Reality in the Planning of Congenital Cardiothoracic Anomalies Correction: An Initial Experience
Authors: Ayerbe Victor Manuel Caicedo , Morales Martha Lucía Velasco , Rojas Carlos Javier Latorre , Cortés María Lucía Arango
Published: August 2020

We present the case of an nine-year-old girl with double outlet right ventricle with noncommitted ventricular septal defect and malposition of the great arteries who had undergone repair at the age of seven months. Six years later, the patient presented with right ventricular failure, conduit calcification with obstruction, and obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract. Three-dimensional models reconstructed by Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) images of the patient were visualized in a virtual reality system to help plan the surgical correction of the intracardiac congenital anomalies. This tool allowed us to inspect the intracardiac anatomy in an immersive environment with a clearer sense of perspective.
Aortic Root Thrombosis on ECMO—A Novel Management Strategy
Authors: Aljohani Othman A. , Singh Rakesh K. , Nageotte Stephen J. , Do Thomas , Ratnayaka Kanishka , Nigro John J. , Werho David K.
Published: August 2020

A 15-year-old presented in cardiogenic shock secondary to viral myocarditis requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. He developed large thrombi of the left ventricle and aortic root. Anticoagulation was increased, and medications were initiated to decrease the likelihood of aortic valve opening. He underwent balloon atrial septostomy followed by placement of a left atrial vent. A pigtail catheter was placed in the ascending aorta for direct heparin infusion. Serial echocardiograms showed progressive resolution of the thrombi. He was successfully weaned from ECMO and discharged home without neurological deficits.
The Surgeon’s View of the Left Ventricular Outflow Tract in Congenital Heart Surgery
Authors: Stephens Elizabeth H. , Dearani Joseph A. , Johnson Jonathan N. , Ackerman Michael J. , Ommen Steve R. , Schaff Hartzell V.
Published: August 2020

Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction is a component of many forms of congenital heart disease, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, membranous subaortic stenosis, tunnel subaortic stenosis, and outflow tract obstruction related to atrioventricular septal defects. We have gained a particularly extensive experience with the diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, having performed septal myectomy in over 3,800 patients. In the setting of this review of LVOT obstruction, we use hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as a template by which other pathologies causing LVOT obstruction can be understood. We review important surgical issues in patient selection, diagnostic evaluation, interpretation of imaging, and operative management. To this end, the review focuses on obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and then broadens to discuss other pathologies causing LVOT obstruction, with important similarities and differences in their management. These other pathologies share some similar presentations and operative techniques, and at times can be confused with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, but also have important distinctions of which the surgeon should be aware.
Modeling HIV Transmission from Sexually Active Alcohol-Consuming Men in ART Programs to Seronegative Wives
Authors: Dieckhaus Kevin D. , Ha Toan H. , Schensul Stephen L. , Sarna Avina
Published: August 2020

Background:

The rollout of antiviral therapy in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) has reduced HIV transmission rates at the potential risk of resistant HIV transmission. We sought to predict the risk of wild type and antiviral resistance transmissions in these settings.

Methods:

A predictive model utilizing viral load, ART adherence, genital ulcer disease, condom use, and sexual event histories was developed to predict risks of HIV transmission to wives of 233 HIV+ men in 4 antiretroviral treatment centers in Maharashtra, India.

Results:

ARV Therapy predicted a 5.71-fold reduction in transmissions compared to a model of using condoms alone, with 79.9%, of remaining transmissions resulting in primary ART-resistance.

Conclusions:

ART programs reduce transmission of HIV to susceptible partners at a substantial increased risk for transmission of resistant virus. Enhanced vigilance in monitoring adherence, use of barrier protections, and viral load may reduce risks of resistant HIV transmissions in LMIC settings.
Facilitating Access to Dental Care for People Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Stormon N. , Sowa P.M. , Anderson J. , Ford P.J.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Fear, lack of information, and lower health literacy are prominent barriers preventing people experiencing homelessness from accessing dental services. Most of this population are eligible for free dental treatment in Australia, yet few access care. This study evaluated 3 models for facilitating access to dental services for people experiencing homelessness.

Methods:

Three facilitated access models were developed and implemented at 4 community organizations. In model 1, dental appointments were booked on the spot after a screening by dental practitioners. Model 2 also involved dental screenings followed by appointments made via phone call from the service. In model 3, the community organizations referred clients directly to the service where appointments were made via a phone call to the client. The models were trialed with community organizations between 2017 and 2019. For each model, participant demographic information, attendance at subsequent dental appointments, and program operation resource use were collected. Cost-effectiveness was assessed as an incremental cost per additional person attending a dental appointment.

Results:

A total of 76 people participated in model 1, 66 in model 2, and 43 in model 3. Model 1 was the most effective, leading to 84.2 (confidence interval, 75.8–92.7) of every 100 participants attending a dental appointment. Model 2 had a lower effectiveness of 56.1 (44.6–67.6), and model 3 was the least effective, with a mean of 29.3 (15.0–43.6) per 100 participants attending. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were $51 per additional person attending a dental appointment for model 3 (compared to no strategy) and $173 per additional person attending for model 1 (compared to model 3).

Conclusions:

Model 3 was the most cost-effective strategy of increasing access to dental care for people experiencing homelessness. Decision makers who find the effectiveness of model 3 insufficient should look instead to employ model 1 or a combination of these 2 models. The importance of face-to-face engagement to foster trust between the individual and health care practitioner was evident.

Knowledge transfer statement:

This study provides a range of models for dental and community services to facilitate access to dental care for people experiencing homelessness. Decision makers should consider the needs of vulnerable populations, alternative model designs, and their cost-effectiveness when implementing models of facilitated access to dental care. Face-to-face engagement between clients and dental practitioners by inclusion of a screening stage appears to be instrumental in overcoming barriers to access clinical care.
Graphic abbreviation of Chinese characters in Vietnam: A case study of “dot and bend” in Sino-Nom texts
Authors: Thị Đỗ Bích-Tuyển
Published: August 2020

This article describes research on “dot and bend” ([Formula: see text]) as a graphic abbreviation of Chinese characters in Sino-Nom books and stele inscriptions. Documentary survey results show that the sign “dot and bend” may be an abbreviation of a whole character (錢, 饒) or a radical (食, 金, 君, 镸, 雚) on the left of a character. This abbreviation appeared in Vietnam from the 12th to the early 20th century, which had some specific characteristics in comparison with Chinese characters in China, Japan and Korea.
Stepwise segmentation error correction in optical coherence tomography angiography images of patients with diabetic macular edema
Authors: Ghasemi Falavarjani Khalil , Mirshahi Reza , Ghasemizadeh Shahriar , Sardarinia Mahsa
Published: August 2020

Aim:

To determine the minimum number of optical coherence tomography B-scan corrections required to provide acceptable vessel density measurements on optical coherence tomography angiography images in eyes with diabetic macular edema.

Methods:

In this prospective, noninterventional case series, the optical coherence tomography angiography images of eyes with center-involving diabetic macular edema were assessed. Optical coherence tomography angiography imaging was performed using RTVue Avanti spectral-domain optical coherence tomography system with the AngioVue software (V.2017.1.0.151; Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA). Segmentation error was recorded and manually corrected in the inner retinal layers in the central foveal, 100th and 200th optical coherence tomography B-scans. The segmentation error correction was then continued until all optical coherence tomography B-scans in whole en face image were corrected. At each step, the manual correction of each optical coherence tomography B-scan was propagated to whole image. The vessel density and retinal thickness were recorded at baseline and after each optical coherence tomography B-scan correction.

Results:

A total of 36 eyes of 26 patients were included. To achieve full segmentation error correction in whole en face image, an average of 1.72 ± 1.81 and 5.57 ± 3.87 B-scans was corrected in inner plexiform layer and outer plexiform layer, respectively. The change in the vessel density measurements after complete segmentation error correction was statistically significant after inner plexiform layer correction. However, no statistically significant change in vessel density was found after manual correction of the outer plexiform layer. The vessel density measurements were statistically significantly different after single central foveal B-scan correction of inner plexiform layer compared with the baseline measurements ( p = 0.03); however, it remained unchanged after further segmentation corrections of inner plexiform layer.

Conclusion:

Multiple optical coherence tomography B-scans should be manually corrected to address segmentation error in whole images of en face optical coherence tomography angiography in eyes with diabetic macular edema. Correction of central foveal B-scan provides the most significant change in vessel density measurements in eyes with diabetic macular edema.
An efficient Bayesian framework for updating PAGER loss estimates
Authors: Noh Hae Young , Jaiswal Kishor S , Engler Davis , Wald David J
Published: August 2020

We introduce a Bayesian framework for incorporating time-varying noisy reported data on damage and loss information to update near real-time loss estimates/alerts for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response (PAGER) system. Initial loss estimation by PAGER immediately following an earthquake includes several uncertainties. Historically, the PAGER’s alerting on fatality and economic losses has not incorporated location-specific reported data on physical damage or casualties for a given earthquake. The proposed framework provides the ability to include early reports on fatalities at any given time and improve the overall impact forecast for the earthquake. The reported data on fatalities or damage are generally incomplete and noisy, especially in the early hours of the disaster. To address these challenges, we develop a recursive Bayesian updating framework that takes into account the loss projection model and the measurement and model uncertainties. The framework is applied to loss data for three example earthquakes, and the results show that the proposed updating improves the loss estimates and alert level to the correct level within the first day of the earthquake.
Early childhood growth is associated with lung function at 7 years: a prospective population-based study
Authors: Peralta Gabriela P. , Abellan Alicia , Montazeri Parisa , Basterrechea Mikel , Esplugues Ana , González-Palacios Sandra , Roda Célina , Santa-Marina Loreto , Sunyer Jordi , Vrijheid Martine , Casas Maribel , Garcia-Aymerich Judith
Published: August 2020

Previous studies have related early postnatal growth with later lung function but their interpretation is limited by the methods used to assess a child's growth. We aimed to assess the association of early childhood growth, measured by body mass index (BMI) trajectories up to 4 years, with lung function at 7 years.

We included 1257 children from the Spanish Infancia y Medio Ambiente population-based birth cohort. Early childhood growth was classified into five categories based on BMI trajectories up to 4 years previously identified using latent class growth analysis. These trajectories differed in birth size (“lower”, “average”, “higher”) and in BMI gain velocity (“slower”, “accelerated”). We related these trajectories to lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC and forced expiratory flow at 25%–75% of FVC (FEF25–75%)) at 7 years, using multivariable mixed regression.

Compared to children with average birth size and slower BMI gain (reference), children with higher birth size and accelerated BMI gain had a higher FVC % pred (3.3%, 95% CI 1.0%–5.6%) and a lower FEV1/FVC % pred (−1.5%, 95% CI −2.9%–−0.1%) at 7 years. Similar associations were observed for children with lower birth size and accelerated BMI gain. Children with lower birth size and slower BMI gain had lower FVC % pred at 7 years. No association was found for FEF25–75%.

Independently of birth size, children with accelerated BMI gain in early childhood had higher lung function at 7 years but showed airflow limitation. Children with lower birth size and slower BMI gain in early childhood had lower lung function at 7 years.
Efficacy and safety of TOBI Podhaler inPseudomonas aeruginosa-infected bronchiectasis patients: iBEST study
Authors: Loebinger Michael R. , Polverino Eva , Chalmers James D. , Tiddens Harm A.W.M. , Goossens Herman , Tunney Michael , Ringshausen Felix C. , Hill Adam T. , Pathan Rashidkhan , Angyalosi Gerhild , Blasi Francesco , Elborn Stuart J. , Haworth Charles S.
Published: August 2020

The study aimed to determine the efficacy of a safe and well-tolerated dose and regimen of tobramycin inhalation powder (TIP) onPseudomonas aeruginosasputum density in patients with bronchiectasis.

This is a phase II, double-blind, randomised study in bronchiectasis patients aged ≥18 years with chronicP. aeruginosainfection. Patients were randomised 1:1:1 to either cohort A: three capsules of TIP once daily (84 mg); cohort B: five capsules once daily (140 mg) or cohort C: four capsules twice daily (224 mg). Within each cohort, patients were further randomised 2:2:1 either to TIP continuously, TIP cyclically (alternating 28 days of TIP and placebo) or placebo for 16 weeks, respectively and were followed up for 8 weeks.

Overall, 107 patients were randomised to cohorts A (n=34), B (n=36) and C (n=37). All three TIP doses significantly reduced theP. aeruginosasputum density from baseline to day 29versusplacebo in a dose-dependent manner (p≤0.0001, each). A smaller proportion of patients in the continuous-TIP (34.1%) and cyclical-TIP (35.7%) groups experienced pulmonary exacerbationsversusplacebo (47.6%) and also required fewer anti-pseudomonal antibiotics (38.6% on continuous TIP and 42.9% on cyclical TIP)versusplacebo (57.1%) although not statistically significant. Pulmonary exacerbation of bronchiectasis was the most frequent (37.4%) adverse event. Overall, TIP was well tolerated, however, 23.4% of the patients discontinued the study drug due to adverse events.

Continuous- and cyclical-TIP regimens with all three doses were safe and effective in reducing theP. aeruginosasputum density in patients with bronchiectasis and chronicP. aeruginosainfection.
Ongoing challenges to understanding multidrug- and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis in childrenversusadults
Authors: McQuaid C. Finn , Cohen Ted , Dean Anna S. , Houben Rein M.G.J. , Knight Gwenan M. , Zignol Matteo , White Richard G.
Published: August 2020

Previous analyses suggest that children with tuberculosis (TB) are no more or no less likely to have multidrug (MDR)- or rifampicin-resistant (RR)-TB than adults. However, the availability of new data, particularly for high MDR/RR-TB burden countries, suggest updates of country-specific estimates are warranted.

We used data from population-representative surveys and surveillance collected between 2000 and 2018 to compare the odds ratio of MDR/RR-TB among children (aged <15 years) with TB, compared to the odds of MDR/RR-TB among adults (aged ≥15 years) with TB.

In most settings (45 out of 55 countries), and globally as a whole, there is no evidence that age is associated with odds of MDR/RR-TB. However, in some settings, such as former Soviet Union countries in general, and Georgia, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in particular, as well as Peru, MDR/RR-TB is positively associated with age ≥15 years. Meanwhile, in Western Europe in general, and the United Kingdom, Poland, Finland and Luxembourg in particular, MDR/RR-TB is positively associated with age <15 years. 16 countries had sufficient data to compare over time between 2000–2011 and 2012–2018, with evidence for decreases in the odds ratio in children compared to adults in Germany, Kazakhstan and the United States of America.

Our results support findings that in most settings a child with TB is as likely as an adult with TB to have MDR/RR-TB. However, setting-specific heterogeneity requires further investigation. Furthermore, the odds ratio for MDR/RR-TB in children compared to adults is generally either stable or decreasing. There are important gaps in detection, recording and reporting of drug resistance among paediatric TB cases, limiting our understanding of transmission risks and measures needed to combat the global TB epidemic.
Genome-wide association study reveals the genetic basis of fiber quality traits in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Liu Wei , Song Chengxiang , Ren Zhongying , Zhang Zhiqiang , Pei Xiaoyu , Liu Yangai , He Kunlun , Zhang Fei , Zhao Junjie , Zhang Jie , Wang Xingxing , Yang Daigang , Li Wei
Published: August 2020

Background

Fiber quality is an important economic trait of cotton, and its improvement is a major goal of cotton breeding. To better understand the genetic mechanisms responsible for fiber quality traits, we conducted a genome-wide association study to identify and mine fiber-quality-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes.

Results

In total, 42 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 31 QTLs were identified as being significantly associated with five fiber quality traits. Twenty-five QTLs were identified in previous studies, and six novel QTLs were firstly identified in this study. In the QTL regions, 822 genes were identified and divided into four clusters based on their expression profiles. We also identified two pleiotropic SNPs. The SNP locus i52359Gb was associated with fiber elongation, strength, length and uniformity, while i11316Gh was associated with fiber strength and length. Moreover, these two SNPs were nonsynonymous and located in genesGh_D09G2376andGh_D06G1908, respectively. RT-qPCR analysis revealed that these two genes were preferentially expressed at one or more stages of cotton fiber development, which was consistent with the RNA-seq data. Thus,Gh_D09G2376andGh_D06G1908may be involved in fiber developmental processes.

Conclusions

The findings of this study provide insights into the genetic bases of fiber quality traits, and the identified QTLs or genes may be applicable in cotton breeding to improve fiber quality.
APOL1 renal risk variants exacerbate podocyte injury by increasing inflammatory stress
Authors: Wakashin Hidefumi , Heymann Jurgen , Roshanravan Hila , Daneshpajouhnejad Parnaz , Rosenberg Avi , Shin Myung Kyun , Hoek Maarten , Kopp Jeffrey B.
Published: August 2020

Background

Apolipoprotein L1, APOL1, is a trypanosome lytic factor present in human and certain other primates. APOL1 gene variants, present in individuals of recent sub-Saharan African descent, increase risk for glomerular disease and associate with the disease progression, but the molecular mechanisms have not been defined.

Objectives

We focus on the mechanism how APOL1 variant proteins enhance podocyte injury in the stressed kidney.

Methods

First, we investigated the expression of APOL1 protein isoform and the localization of APOL1 protein in the kidney. Next, we examined the role of APOL1 in the podocyte stress and the inflammatory signaling in the kidney after hemi-nephrectomy.

Results

We identified a novel RNA variant that lacks a secretory pathway signal sequence and we found that the predicted APOL1-B3 protein isoform was expressed in human podocytes in vivo and by BAC-APOL1 transgenic mice. APOL1-B3-G2 transgenic mice, carrying a renal risk variant, manifested podocyte injury and increased pro-IL-1β mRNA in isolated glomeruli and increased IL-1β production in the remnant kidney after uninephrectomy. APOL1-B3 interacted with NLRP12, a key regulator of Toll-like receptor signaling.

Conclusions

These results suggest a possible mechanism for podocyte injury by which one of the APOL1 protein isoforms, APOL1-B3 and its renal risk variants, enhances inflammatory signaling.
Diagnostic dilemma in postpartum associated hemolytic uremic syndrome in a 38th week pregnant 31-year-old Congolese: a case report
Authors: Tshilanda Marc , Kanmounye Ulrick Sidney , Tendobi Céline , Mbuyi Freddy
Published: August 2020

Background

Thrombotic microangiopathy is associated with HELLP syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, or atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) during pregnancy. Standard laboratory and physical examinations can help distinguish between these three diseases promptly and guide their management. This is critical because their managements and prognoses differ considerably. The ADAMTS13 test, complement tests, and biopsies can help ascertain the diagnosis; however, they take time, and are not widely available. In this case report, we present a case that highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas associated with the aforementioned diseases.

Case presentation

A 31-year old P3G3 patient presented at 38 weeks with high blood pressure, bilateral pitting edema, and a low fetal heart rate. A cesarean section was performed to extract the fetus. On postoperative day 2, the suites were marked by anemia, low platelet count, acute kidney injury, declining liver function, and the presence of schistocytes on the peripheral thin smear. The patient was lucid, coherent, and presented no neurological deficits. The ADAMTS13 test and anti-complement therapy were not readily available, so the team made a presumptive diagnosis of aHUS based on the history, clinical presentation, and standard laboratory results. Due to a lack of anticomplement therapy, the patient was prescribed four sessions of hemodialysis. The renal function and platelet count gradually increased, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 18. The patient was followed for over a year and did not present relapses of thrombocytopenia or microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.

Conclusions

The prompt diagnosis and management of aHUS lead to favorable outcomes. Healthcare providers should be able to rapidly differentiate between pregnancy-associated thrombotic microangiopathies and prescribe appropriate management. Here, we highlighted the challenges of diagnosing and managing postpartum associated aHUS in a low-resource setting.
Effect of high-intensity interval training on cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity and body composition in people with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andersen Eivind , Bang-Kittilsen Gry , Bigseth Therese Torgersen , Egeland Jens , Holmen Tom Langerud , Martinsen Egil Wilhelm , Stensrud Trine , Engh John Abel
Published: August 2020

Background

Exercise may improve cardiorespiratory fitness in people with schizophrenia, however, possible condition-specific cardiorespiratory disadvantages, a scarcity of methodologically sound studies, and conflicting results raise questions about the effect of exercise on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in this group. The primary aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training on VO2max in people with schizophrenia. Second, we sought to determine whether the intervention would have an effect on general physical activity (PA) level and body composition.

Methods

Eighty-two patients with schizophrenia were randomly assigned to supervised high-intensity interval training or computer gaming skills training, performed twice a week for 12 weeks. Oxygen uptake was measured directly, during a maximum exercise session on a treadmill. PA level were assessed using ActiGraph accelerometer, and body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Differences between groups were assessed by analysis of variance using a univariate general linear model.

Results

There were no significant differences between the groups on any of the cardiorespiratory variables neither at baseline nor after the program. There were also no significant within-group differences in any of the cardiorespiratory fitness variables between the baseline and post-program time points, despite that 61% of the participants performing high-intensity interval training showed a significant increase in workload on the treadmill. However, 47% of the participants in the high-intensity interval training group had a ≥ 5% increase in VO2max. Participants supervised by mental health care providers with PA competence (e.g. rehabilitation center staff, sport scientist, physical trainer) had a much larger increase in VO2max compared to participants supervised by mental health workers without such competence, and when adding PA competence to the model, the intervention group increased VO2max significantly compared to the comparison group. The intervention had no significant effect on PA level or body composition.

Conclusions

The intervention did not improve VO2max, PA level or body composition but succeeded in increasing workload on the treadmill. With regard to VO2max, approximately half of the patients may be considered responders.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02205684, registered July 2014,
Sickness absence trajectories following labour market participation patterns: a cohort study in Catalonia (Spain), 2012–2014
Authors: Hernando-Rodriguez Julio C. , Serra Laura , Benavides Fernando G. , Ubalde-Lopez Monica
Published: August 2020

Background

Previous studies have focused on the relationship between employment pathways and health-related outcomes based on cross-sectional or longitudinal approaches. However, little is known about the cumulative effects of employment status mobility on sickness absence (SA) over time. The aim of the present study was to examine the association between prior labour market participation (LMP) patterns and SA trajectories from a life-course perspective.

Methods

This cohort study was based on a sample of 11,968 salaried workers living in Catalonia and affiliated with the Spanish Social Security system, who accumulated more than 15 days on SA in at least one quarter during 2012–2014. Individuals were grouped into three different working life stages: early (18–25 years), middle (26–35 years), and late (36–45 years). To identify LMP patterns, we applied sequence analysis and cluster analysis (2002–2011), and we used latent class growth modelling to identify SA trajectories (2012–2014). Finally, we applied multinomial logistic regression models to assess the relationship between LMP patterns and SA trajectories.

Results

The analyses yielded six LMP patterns: stable employment (value range: 63–81%), increasing employment (5–22%), without long-term coverage (7–8%), decreasing employment (4–10%), fluctuant employment (13–14%), and steeply decreasing employment (7–9%). We also identified four SA trajectories: low stable (83–88%), decreasing (5–9%), increasing (5–11%), and high stable (7–16%). However, the only significant association we identified for LMP patterns and SA trajectories was among young men, for whom an increasing employment pattern was significantly associated with a lower risk for increased days on SA (adjusted odds ratio: 0.21; 95% confidence interval: 0.05–0.96).

Conclusions

SA trajectories are generally not related to prior 10-year LMP patterns at any stage of working life. To disentangle this relationship, future research might benefit from considering working life transitions with a quality-of-work approach framed with contextual factors closer to the SA course.
Energy drink: the consumption prevalence, and awareness of its potential health implications among commercial drivers in the Ho municipality of Ghana
Authors: Saku Emmanuella Yayra , Nuro-Ameyaw Peter , Amenya Priscilla Cecilia , Kpodo Fidelis Mawunyo , Esua- Amoafo Paul , Kortei Nii Korley
Published: August 2020

Background

Consumption of energy drinks has become an escalating global public health problem. The work schedule and irregular sleeping habits of commercial bus drivers make them highly susceptible to getting fatigued, hence most of them consume energy drinks as a fatigue management strategy. However, consumption of energy drinks produces numerous psychomotor side effects that if consumed among drivers puts the traveling public in danger of road accidents. This study sought to assess the prevalence of energy drink consumption and awareness of associated potential health problems among commercial long-distance bus drivers operating from the Ho municipality.

Methods

The study population comprised about 266 commercial bus drivers. This was a cross-sectional study involving 132 participants who completed a structured questionnaire on the participants’ socio-demographic characteristics, frequency of consumption and reasons for consumption. It also included questions to assess the knowledge of the ingredients and side effects of energy drinks. Respondents were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Descriptive analysis and Chi-square test of association were used to analyse the data.

Results

A majority (62.1%) of the drivers had more than 10 years of commercial driving experience. A 75% energy drink consumption prevalence was recorded with driving performance enhancement (78.8%) as the predominant reason for consumption. 7–10 bottles per week were consumed by most (32.2%) of the drivers. Also, 72.0% had poor knowledge of the side effects linked with energy drink consumption as well as the ingredients for preparation.

Conclusion

Energy drinks were consumed by the majority of the drivers at the Ho main bus terminal of which most of the drivers had poor knowledge of the potential health problems linked with the consumption of these drinks. The consumption of energy drinks was observed to be higher among the drivers with lower education levels, higher monthly income and those who worked long hours in a day. The Ghana National Road Safety Commission (GNRC) in collaboration with other private road transport unions in Ghana should organize regular seminars for commercial bus drivers on the potential dangers and effects associated with energy drink consumption.
A randomized trial on the effects of root resorption after orthodontic treatment using pulsating force
Authors: Wang Jue , Lamani Ejvis , Christou Terpsithea , Li Peng , Kau Chung How
Published: August 2020

Background

An orthodontic device that moves teeth with pulsating force was invented and underwent a single center, controlled, clinical trial to test its safety and efficacy for treatment. The device has a custom-made thermo-plastic mouthpiece which fits over the teeth with an inflatable silicone element. A console that measures and controls the pulsating force level in real-time controls the air pressure that delivers a pulsating force. In this study, the effect of the device on root resorption during orthodontic treatment was evaluated using 3D cone beam computed tomography and compared with a control group of patients who received Invisalign treatment.

Methods

Twenty-eight subjects were enrolled in the investigational arm and 15 in the control group. Subjects were followed until the average score of the mandibular and maxillary teeth achieved a Little’s Irregularity Index of 1.5 mm or less.

Results

There were no adverse events reported throughout the study for either treatment arm. No clinically significant root resorption was observed for either group. The investigational device did not cause root resorption greater than the control group. Both devices produced a safety profile compared to current orthodontic techniques.

Conclusion

The investigational device did not produce more root resorption than similar conventional orthodontic appliances.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03421886. Registered 12 January 2018 - Retrospectively registered.
Activation of synovial fibroblasts from patients at revision of their metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Xu Jing , Yang Junyao , Chen Jian , Zhang Xiaoli , Wu Yuanhao , Hart Alister , Nyga Agata , Shelton Julia C.
Published: August 2020

Background

The toxicity of released metallic particles generated in metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) using cobalt chromium (CoCr) has raised concerns regarding their safety amongst both surgeons and the public. Soft tissue changes such as pseudotumours and metallosis have been widely observed following the use of these implants, which release metallic by-products due to both wear and corrosion. Although activated fibroblasts, the dominant cell type in soft tissues, have been linked to many diseases, the role of synovial fibroblasts in the adverse reactions caused by CoCr implants remains unknown. To investigate the influence of implants manufactured from CoCr, the periprosthetic synovial tissues and synovial fibroblasts from patients with failed MoM THA, undergoing a revision operation, were analysed and compared with samples from patients undergoing a primary hip replacement, in order to elucidate histological and cellular changes.

Results

Periprosthetic tissue from patients with MoM implants was characterized by marked fibrotic changes, notably an increase in collagen content from less than 20% to 45–55%, an increase in α-smooth muscle actin positive cells from 4 to 9% as well as immune cells infiltration. Primary cell culture results demonstrated that MoM synovial fibroblasts have a decreased apoptosis rate from 14 to 6% compared to control synovial fibroblasts. In addition, synovial fibroblasts from MoM patients retained higher contractility and increased responsiveness to chemotaxis in matrix contraction. Their mechanical properties at a single cell level increased as observed by a 60% increase in contraction force and higher cell stiffness (3.3 kPa in MoM vs 2.18 kPa in control), as measured by traction force microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Further, fibroblasts from MoM patients promoted immune cell invasion by secreting monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1, CCL2) and induced monocyte differentiation, which could also be associated with excess accumulation of synovial macrophages.

Conclusion

Synovial fibroblasts exposed in vivo to MoM THA implants that release CoCr wear debris displayed dramatic phenotypic alteration and functional changes. These findings unravelled an unexpected effect of the CoCr alloy and demonstrated an important role of synovial fibroblasts in the undesired tissue reactions caused by MoM THAs.
Breast cancer surgery during the Covid-19 pandemic: a monocentre experience from the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute of Rome
Authors: Pelle Fabio , Cappelli Sonia , Graziano Franco , Piarulli Loredana , Cavicchi Flavia , Magagnano Domenico , De Luca Assunta , De Vita Roy , Pozzi Marcello , Costantini Maurizio , Varanese Antonio , Panimolle Massimo , Gullo Pietro Paolo , Barba Maddalena , Vici Patrizia , Vizza Enrico , Cognetti Francesco , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Saracca Elena , Ciliberto Gennaro , Botti Claudio
Published: August 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has challenged hard the national health systems worldwide. According to the national policy issued in March 2020 in response to the evolving Covid-19 pandemic, several hospitals were re-configured as Covid-19 centers and elective surgery procedures were rescheduled according to the most recent recommendations. In addition, Covid-19 protected cancer hubs were established, including the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute of Rome, Central Italy. At our Institute, the Breast Surgery Department continued working under the sign of a multidisciplinary approach. The number of professional figures involved in case evaluation was reduced to a minimum and interactions took place in the full respect of the required safety measures. Treatments for benign disease, pure prophylactic surgery and elective reconstructive procedures were all postponed and priority was assigned to the histologically-proven malignant breast tumors and highly suspicious lesions. From March 15th though April 30th 2020, we treated a total of 79 patients. This number is fully consistent with the average quantitative standards reached by our Department under ordinary circumstances. Patients were mostly discharged the day after surgery and none was readmitted due to surgery-related late complications. More generally, post-operative complications rates were unexpectedly low, particularly in light of the relatively high number of reconstructive procedures performed in this emergency situation. A strict follow up was performed based on the close contact with the surgical staff by telephone, messaging apps and telemedicine.

Patients ascertainment for their Covid-19 status prior to hospital admission and hospital discharge allowed to maintain the “no-Covid-19” status at our Institution. In addition, during the aforementioned time window, none of the care providers developed SARS-CoV-2 infection or disease, as shown by the results of anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin M and G profiling. In conclusions, elective breast cancer surgery procedures were successfully performed in a lockdown situation due to a novel viral pandemic. The well-coordinated regional and hospital efforts in terms of medical resource re-allocation and definition of clinical priorities allowed to maintain high quality standards of breast cancer care while ensuring safety to the cancer patients and care providers involved.
Correction to: Human ex vivo spinal cord slice culture as a useful model of neural development, lesion, and allogeneic neural cell therapy
Authors: Lin Chenhong , Calzarossa Cinzia , Fernandez-Zafra Teresa , Liu Jia , Li Xiaofei , Ekblad-Nordberg Åsa , Vazquez-Juarez Erika , Codeluppi Simone , Holmberg Lena , Lindskog Maria , Uhlén Per , Åkesson Elisabet
Published: August 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Authorship diversity among systematic reviews in eyes and vision
Authors: Qureshi Riaz , Han Genie , Fapohunda Kolade , Abariga Samuel , Wilson Renee , Li Tianjing
Published: August 2020

Importance

The inclusion of authors from diverse backgrounds and with different lived experiences is critical to ensuring the questions addressed in systematic reviews (SRs), as well as the subsequent conclusions and recommendations made, are representative of the global community.

Objective

To assess the gender and geographic diversity of authors among all Cochrane SRs in eyes and vision as compared with a random sample of non-Cochrane SRs of interventions in the field of eyes and vision.

Design

The Cochrane Eyes and Vision US Satellite maintains a database of SRs in the field of eyes and vision. We selected all (n = 313) eyes and vision intervention SRs published in The Cochrane Library and a random sample of 313 eyes and vision intervention SRs published elsewhere for this study. We determined gender of the first and corresponding authors (“woman,” “man,” or “unknown”) using a previously developed algorithm and their location based on institution country and the World Health Organization region.

Results

From the 626 reviews included in our sample, we identified 751 unique authors who comprised 887 author positions (i.e., first and/or corresponding authors). We were able to ascertain the gender of 647/751 (86%) authors: 276 women and 371 men. Among Cochrane eyes and vision SRs, the proportions of women in first and/or corresponding author positions were consistent and approximately equal to men. Among non-Cochrane eyes and vision SRs, the representation of women was markedly lower as corresponding authors than other positions. Most authors of Cochrane eyes and vision SRs were from the UK (31%) and USA (26%), whereas most authors of non-Cochrane SRs were from China (34%).

Conclusions and relevance

Compared with authors of non-Cochrane SRs in eyes and vision, authors of Cochrane SRs appear to have approximately equal representation of women and men among perceived important author positions and be located in European and North American countries, possibly due to the locations of the Cochrane editorial teams. Cochrane Eyes and Vision should continue to recruit authors from around the world in locations that reflect the global burden of eye disease.
3D evaluation of the morphological and volumetric changes of the tongue and oral cavity before and after orthognathic surgery for mandibular prognathism: a preliminary study
Authors: Teramoto Airy , Suzuki Shoichi , Higashihori Norihisa , Ohbayashi Naoto , Kurabayashi Toru , Moriyama Keiji
Published: August 2020

Background

The volumetric ratio of the tongue to the oral cavity has been recognized to be one of the important factors for the maintenance of stable occlusion. Oral cavity capacity is changed after orthognathic surgery in patients with mandibular prognathism; however, the volumetric changes of the oral cavity including the tongue before and after surgery have not been analyzed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the morphological and volumetric changes of the tongue and oral cavity following orthognathic surgery using a newly developed vinyl polysiloxane impression method.

Materials and methods

The study was performed in fifteen subjects who underwent surgical orthognathic treatment. Impressions of the tongue together with the oral cavity were obtained before orthognathic surgery and 1, 3, and 6 months after orthognathic surgery. These impression patterns were scanned using cone-beam computed tomography (CT), and three-dimensional (3D) images of the oral cavity including the tongue, and the upper and lower dental arches were reconstructed. The morphological and volumetric changes in the oral cavity capacity and the tongue volume were examined.

Results

The volume of the tongue with the volume of the oral cavity decreased after orthognathic surgery. There was a correlation between the decrease in the oral cavity capacity and tongue volume. The volumetric ratio of the tongue to the oral cavity seems to be maintained before and after orthognathic surgery.

Conclusion

VPS method, free from radiation exposure, may be useful for investigating the morphological and volumetric changes of the tongue and oral cavity, which may possibly influence the stability of the dental arch and occlusion during surgical orthodontic treatment.
United States Under-19 Rugby-7s: Incidence and Nature of Match Injuries During a 5-year Epidemiological Study
Authors: Lopez Victor , Ma Richard , Weinstein Meryle G. , Hume Patria A. , Cantu Robert C. , Victoria Christian , Queler Sophie C. , Webb Khalil J. A. , Allen Answorth A.
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a lack of injury data for the new Olympic sport of Rugby-7s, particularly for involved youth.

Objective

To determine injury rates and characteristics for players participating in U.S. Rugby-7s U19 (under 19 years of age) tournaments.

Methods

Injury data were collected, using the Rugby Injury Survey & Evaluation report methodology, at 24 U.S. Rugby-7 s U19 tournaments over 30 tournament days (2010–2014). Tournament medical-attention injuries and time-loss injuries (days absent before return to training/competition including post tournament) were recorded.

Results

During the 2101 playing hours (3072 males, aged 17.2 ± 1.5 years; 732 females, 16.6 ± 1.3 years of age), there were 173 tournament injuries with an overall injury incidence of 82.4/1000 player-match-hours (ph) (CI 70.5–95.6). Acute injuries (79.5/1000 ph) occurred during tackling (56.2/1000 ph) and involved joints/ligaments (32.8/1000 ph) of lower extremities (31.9/1000 ph). Head and neck injuries, including concussions, were common (males 21.9/1000 ph; females 22.0/1000 ph). Medical-attention injury incidences (49.5/1000 ph; n = 104; 95% CI 40.5–60.0) were higher than time loss (32.8/1000 ph; n = 69; 95% CI 25.5–41.6). Overall, injury incidences found no difference between sex (RR 0.78; p = 0.369). Time-loss injuries resulted in an average of 35.5 d to return to sport.

Discussion

This study is the first to report match injury incidences for U19 participants in Rugby-7s. Overall, match injury incidence among U.S. U19 Rugby-7s tournaments was similar compared to adult U.S. community Rugby-7s. Recurrent injury risk was notable in this population. Community injury surveillance studies are essential to understand risk from participation in amateur sports. Knowledge of these injury patterns in U19 Rugby-7s will help identify areas to direct resources to enable growth of Rugby-7s in youths and emerging countries being exposed to Rugby-7 s. Age-based injury frequency and patterns in rugby and its various formats are needed for the development of evidence-based, sport-specific, and population-specific injury prevention initiatives.

Conclusions

The match injury incidence of U19 participants in U.S. Rugby-7s was similar to the incidence among adult participants. Recurrent match injury risk was high at 23%. There were no significant differences in injury incidences between males and females. The first three matches of a tournament day result in the most injuries.