bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Serum CRP-Albumin Ratio Is Independently Associated With Severity of Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Yildirim Tarik , Kiris Tuncay , Avci Eyüp , Yildirim Seda ElcimDurusoy , Argan Onur , Safak Özgen , Aktas Zihni , Toklu Oguzhan , Esin Fatma Kayaalı
Published: June 2020

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS), mainly caused by carotid atherosclerosis, is related to ischemic stroke. We investigated whether C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio (CAR) was associated with increased severity of carotid stenosis in patients undergoing carotid angiography. A total of 269 patients who were undergoing carotid angiography were included in this study. The patients were divided into 2 groups with respect to the severe CAS: group 1 (stenosis < 70%, n = 189) or group II (stenosis ≥ 70%, n = 80). C-reactive protein to albumin ratio was higher in group II compared to group I (0.56 ± 0.25 vs 0.14 ± 0.01, P < .001). The CAR (odds ratio [OR]: 1.051, 95%CI: 1.027-1.076, P < .001), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and total cholesterol levels were independent predictors of severe CAS. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve) for the CAR to predict severe CAS was 0.798 (95% CI: 0.741-0.854, P < .001). C-reactive to protein albumin ratio was an independent risk factor of severe CAS. Therefore, CAR might be considered a potential index in the severity of carotid artery disease.
Administrative mediation data as naturally-occurring records of disputes with neighbours and the unmaking of home
Authors: Cheshire Lynda , ten Have Charlotte
Published: June 2020

The dwelling as home is imbued with specific meanings for its inhabitants, even while they remain embedded within a broader network of social and spatial relations. One such set of relations are those with neighbours who can enhance sense of home, but also potentially undermine it. This article explores how problematic relations with neighbours can lead to a form of ‘home unmaking’ through the erosion of home as haven, autonomy and status. Drawing on 3930 cases of neighbour disputes in south-east Queensland, Australia, the article illustrates the opportunities afforded by administrative records as naturally-occurring data on everyday experiences of home and its unmaking, as well as the challenges that arise from using datasets never intended for research purposes.
Cultural Differences in the Tendency to Seek Practical versus Theoretical Information
Authors: Spina Roy , Ji Li-Jun , Guo Tieyuan , Li Ye , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: June 2020

Western thought stems from the ancient Greeks, who were intensely interested in pondering abstract information and generating theories to explain natural phenomena. East Asian thought stems from the ancient Chinese, who focused on concrete information directly perceived by the senses and on generating practical information relevant to their daily lives. Would contemporary Western and East Asian people differ in their tendency to seek practical versus theoretical information? In a series of studies, we found that Canadians showed greater interest in theoretical information than Chinese, who showed greater interest in practical information. To explain the cultural differences in information seeking, we found that Canadians were more likely to endorse an intrinsic motivation for learning (focused on fun) whereas Chinese were more likely to endorse a utilitarian motivation toward learning (focused on benefits). And these differences in motivation for learning mediated the effect of culture on information seeking.
Low Self-control and Legal Cynicism among At-Risk Youth: An Investigation into Direct and Vicarious Police Contact
Authors: Jackson Dylan B. , Testa Alexander , Vaughn Michael G.
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

This study explores the nexus between low self-control and legal cynicism among a recent sample of at-risk youth while accounting for various features of direct and vicarious police stops.

Methods:

Analyses are based on data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, which employs a national sample of urban-born, at-risk youth.

Results:

A uniquely potent association between low self-control and legal cynicism emerged across samples with and without exposure to vicarious or direct police stops. Furthermore, among youth exposed to police stops, the link between low self-control and legal cynicism was largely robust to perceptions/features of these stops, including the degree of officer intrusiveness, arrest, perceptions of procedural justice, and youth feelings of social stigma following the stop.

Conclusions:

Programmatic efforts that both enhance the early development of self-control through mindfulness and curriculum-based interventions (e.g., Promoting Alternative THinking Strategies) and facilitate trauma-informed policing may be beneficial in curtailing the development of legal cynicism.
Natural Family Planning and Marital Chastity: The Effects of Periodic Abstinence on Marital Relationships
Authors: Fehring Richard J. , Manhart Michael D.
Published: June 2020

Marital chastity is the practice of periodic abstinence with use of natural family planning (NFP). The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of the most common methods of contraception (female sterilization, oral contraceptive pills, and condoms) and NFP on divorce/separation and cohabitation rates among reproductive age women. The study involved an extensive review of the literature on the effects of practice of NFP on marital dynamics and a statistical analysis of 2,550 ever-married women in the (2015–2017) National Survey of Family Growth data set. Importance of religion and frequency of church attendance were included in the analysis. With ever-use of NFP, 14 percent were divorced or separated, and 27 percent to 39 percent were divorced or separated with ever-use of oral contraceptive pills. Stepwise logistic regression indicated that ever-use of contraception was associated with increased odds of divorce or separation (odds ratio [OR] = 2.05; confidence interval [CI]: 1.96–2.49) and cohabitation (2.95, CI: 2.20–3.95). Ever-use of NFP yielded 58 percent lower odds for divorce or separation. Frequent church attendance was associated with lower odds of divorce or separation and cohabitation. Although there are lower odds of divorce among NFP users, the reason might be due to their religiosity.

This study showed that ever-use of natural family planning (NFP) among ever-married women was associated with 58 percent lower odds of divorce than among women who never-used NFP. Ever-use of contraceptive methods was associated with two times the odds of divorce and four times for cohabitation compared to those women who never-used those methods. Use of periodic abstinence with NFP is the practice of marital chastity and is thought to strengthen the marital relationship.
The Effect of Media Competition on Analyst Forecast Properties: Cross-Country Evidence
Authors: Cao Ying , Keskek Sami , Myers Linda A. , Tsang Albert
Published: June 2020

We examine the effect of media competition on analyst forecast properties in an international setting using 113,436 firm-year observations from 32 countries spanning 2000 through 2012. We find that firms in countries with stronger media competition enjoy more accurate, less optimistically biased, and less dispersed analyst forecasts. The effects of media competition on the properties of analyst forecasts are stronger for firms with lower institutional ownership, for firms followed by fewer analysts or by analysts from smaller brokerage houses, and for firms with weaker financial performance. This suggests that media competition plays a more pronounced role in shaping the information environment when information from nonmedia channels is likely to be limited or of lower quality. Finally, we find that analysts in countries with stronger media competition tend to follow more firms, suggesting that stronger media competition reduces analysts’ information acquisition costs, which in turn, improves the properties of their forecasts.
Pursuing diversity from the podium: Insights from Australia for wind band conductors and educators on achieving gender parity for women composers
Authors: Howley Rachel
Published: June 2020

Gender in music has been explored over recent decades with growing recognition of the challenges that are faced by women in the field. There has been substantial work exploring the Western music canon but little that addresses the music of Australian women, and more specifically, repertoire written for the wind band genre. With thousands of Australian children every year starting their musical journey in their school band, this is an area that has potential for significant impact in addressing the continued gender disparity for composers. In addition, the substantial influence of the conductor in repertoire selection and promotion of the music of women cannot be denied. This article draws its insights from an action research project that explores the journeys and experiences of Australian women composers through interviews along with artistic collaborations between myself and these composers. Furthermore, Australian conductors of wind bands were surveyed to ascertain their understanding of the role that they may play in facilitating change in this area. This article addresses the barriers that composers and conductors experience, the benefits of networks, the generation of additional repertoire, and the subsequent implications for educational contexts.
Impact of cancer and cancer-related treatments on participation restrictions
Authors: Brick Rachelle , Bender Catherine , Skidmore Elizabeth
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The purpose of this research was to describe participation restrictions in younger and older adult cancer survivors post treatment.

Method

Younger adult cancer survivors ( n = 20) and older adult cancer survivors ( n = 21) completed questionnaires and a semi-structured interview of satisfaction with daily life activities and self-reported health outcomes in a single visit. Reports were based on recall during treatment and current perspectives post treatment.

Results

Despite general health short forms revealing health within normal limits, semi-structured interview approaches revealed dissatisfaction with occupational performance in both younger and older adult cancer survivors. Older adults reported persistent dissatisfaction with instrumental activities from diagnosis through post treatment compared to younger adult cancer survivors. Older adults received fewer referrals for cancer rehabilitation services (19%) compared to younger adult cancer survivors (50%).

Conclusion

Dissatisfaction with daily life activities persists several years post cancer diagnosis in older and younger adult cancer survivors, despite self-reported health within normal limits. Impairment-based short forms may lack sensitivity to detect activity limitations and participation restrictions conveyed through in-depth assessment. Adoption of more comprehensive screening methods may be needed for timely referral to cancer-based occupational therapy services.
Desiccation Cracking Behavior of Clayey Soils Treated with Biocement and Bottom Ash Admixture during Wetting–Drying Cycles
Authors: Vail Mark , Zhu Cheng , Tang Chao-Sheng , Maute Nate , Montalbo-Lomboy Melissa Tababa
Published: June 2020

Desiccation cracking considerably impairs the hydraulic and mechanical properties of clayey soils that are critical to the long-term performance of infrastructure foundations and earth structures. Typical crack remediation methods are associated with high labor and maintenance costs or the use of environmentally unfriendly chemicals. Recycling waste materials and developing biomediated techniques have emerged as green, sustainable soil stabilization solutions. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of soil crack remediation through use of bottom ash admixtures and microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP). We carried out cyclic wetting–drying tests to characterize the effects of bottom ash and MICP on the desiccation cracking behaviors of bentonite soils. Two groups of soil samples that contained different percentages of bottom ash (0%, 20%, 40% by weight) were prepared for cyclic water and MICP treatments, respectively. The desiccation cracking patterns captured by a high-resolution camera were quantified using image processing. We also employed scanning electron microscopy for microstructural characterizations. Experimental results revealed that cyclic water treatment resulted in more cracking, whereas cyclic MICP treatment improved soil strength owing to the precipitation of calcite crystals on the soil particle surface and inside the interparticle pores. Adding bottom ash to bentonite reduced the plasticity of the mixture, promoted the flocculation of clay particles by cation exchange, and also provided soluble calcium to enhance calcite precipitation. This study demonstrates the potential of bottom ash and MICP for crack remediation and brings new insights into the design and assessment of sustainable infrastructures under climate changes.
Effect of mussel shell reinforcement on mechanical and tribological behavior of polyphenylene sulfide composites
Authors: Sahin Alp Eren , Cetin Beysim , Sinmazcelik Tamer
Published: June 2020

Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is commonly used in automobile industry, aeronautics and space electrical–electronic components, and mechanical applications. Mussel shell wastes could be an economical reinforcement alternative for polymer-based composites. Which also gets out the environmental trouble of mussel shell wastes. To examine the effect of mussel shell wastes as reinforcing material, particulate mussel shell wastes were incorporated into the PPS matrix in different mass ratios (0, 1, 3, 5, and 10 wt%). Materials were characterized with ball on disc, scratch, solid particle erosion, hardness, and tensile tests. According to tensile test results, mussel shell reinforcement has a positive effect on elastic modulus and tensile strength of PPS. Moreover, mussel shell filling increased the adhesive wear resistance of PPS. According to scratch test results, scratch hardness value was increased, and residual penetration depth was decreased by mussel shell reinforcement. Furthermore, adding mussel shells in PPS increased the cutting volume value and the scratch behavior of PPS turn from ductile to brittle. Mussel shell waste supplementation increased solid particle erosion resistance at low particle impact angles but decreased it at right angles and those close to right angles. The erosive wear resistance of the PPS samples increased at 30° impingement angle by mussel shell reinforcement. The plastic deformation ability of PPS was decreased by adding mussel cell. As a result of this study, it is seen that usage of mussel shell wastes could be possible in the PPS matrix as a reinforcement material.
A comprehensive review of coconut shell powder composites: Preparation, processing, and characterization
Authors: Nadzri Seri Nur Iman Hidayah Ahmad , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shah Ain Umaira Md , Safri Syafiqah Nur Azrie , Talib Abdul Rahim Abu , Jawaid Mohammad , Basri Adi Azriff
Published: June 2020

Coconut shell is an agricultural residue, usually disposed of through open burning. Toxic gases have been emitted from the open burning phase and can therefore be detrimental to human health and the environment. Thus, to reduce the risk of pollution, researchers have developed a new technology by using agro-wastes to produce biocomposites. Coconut shell powder (CSP) is a solid nonfood waste, which can be potentially exploited to reduce the usage of synthetic fiber. Coconut shell is also low-cost and low weight material that can be used to reduce the production cost of and fuel consumption for transportation. This review has focused on the research carried out on the CSP loaded into different types of matrices, highlighting the fundamental, mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of CSP composites. This article also provides critical review of the development for CSP composite and the summary of the results presented in the literature, focusing in the properties of CSP with polymeric matrices and the application design for economical products.
Statin reduces the incidence of diabetic retinopathy and its need for intervention: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pranata Raymond , Vania Rachel , Victor Andi Arus
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

We aimed to perform a systematic literature search on the latest evidence of the role of statin in reducing diabetic retinopathy and its need for intervention.

Methods:

A comprehensive search on cohort studies/clinical trials that assess statins and diabetic retinopathy up until August 2019 was performed. The outcome measured was the incidence of diabetic retinopathy and its need for intervention.

Results:

There were 558.177 patients from six studies. Statin was associated with a lower incidence of diabetic retinopathy (hazard ratio: 0.68 (0.55, 0.84), p < 0.001; I2: 95%). For the subtypes of diabetic retinopathy, statin lowers the incidence of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (hazard ratio: 0.69 (0.51, 0.93), p = 0.01; I2: 90%), non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (hazard ratio: 0.80 (0.66, 0.96), p = 0.02; I2: 93%), and diabetic macular edema (hazard ratio: 0.56 (0.39, 0.80), p = 0.002; I2: 82%). Statin was associated with a reduced need for retinal laser treatment with a hazard ratio of 0.70 (0.64, 0.76) (p < 0.001; I2: 0%), intravitreal injection with a hazard ratio of 0.82 (0.79, 0.85) (p < 0.001; I2: 0%), and vitrectomy with a hazard ratio of 0.64 (0.48, 0.85) (p < 0.001; I2: 75%). Overall, statin was associated with a reduced need for intervention for diabetic retinopathy with a hazard ratio of 0.72 (0.64, 0.80) (p < 0.001; I2: 73%). The regression-based Egger’s test showed statistically significant small-study effects for non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (p = 0.011) outcomes.

Conclusion:

Statin was associated with a decreased risk of diabetic retinopathy and its subtypes. Statin also reduced the need for intervention with retinal laser treatment, intravitreal injection, and vitrectomy.
Autologous dermis graft versus conchal cartilage graft for managing lower eyelid retraction: A comparative study
Authors: Martel Arnaud , Farah Edgar , Zmuda Matthieu , Almairac Fabien , Jacomet Pierre Vincent , Galatoire Olivier
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Lower eyelid management is challenging. The conchal cartilage is often considered a spacer of choice for treating lower eyelid retraction. However, dermis graft has also recently been shown to be a viable spacer. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of dermis graft to that of conchal cartilage graft in this indication.

Methods:

A retrospective comparative study was conducted in patients who underwent lower eyelid lengthening with autologous dermis graft (group 1) or autologous conchal cartilage graft (group 2). The main outcome measure was the reduction in inferior scleral show (ISS) assessed by three independent masked surgeons. Secondary outcome measures was the assessment of lagophthalmos and corneal keratitis. Complications were also recorded.

Results:

Twenty-five eyelids of 23 patients were included: 11 and 14 eyelids, respectively in group 1 (dermis graft) and group 2 (conchal cartilage graft). Patient mean follow-up was 12.3 (±12.5) and 7.1 (±7.7) months, respectively. No statistical differences in postoperative ISS reduction, lagophthalmos and exposure keratitis was observed ( p = 0.540, p = 0.946, p = 0.934, respectively). Three patients experienced a grade I Clavien–Dindo complication in group 1 and one patient experienced a grade II complication in group 2 ( p = 0.540).

Conclusion:

Autologous dermis grafts and conchal cartilage grafts provide favorable outcomes without major complications.
Septo-optic dysplasia with fovea plana: A case report
Authors: Keles Ali , Ilhan Cagri , Teke Mehmet Yasin , Tekin Kemal
Published: June 2020

Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) is characterized by optic nerve hypoplasia, pituitary gland hypoplasia, and midline abnormalities of the brain. The phenotype of SOD is highly heterogeneous, and the existence of at least two features is considered sufficient for diagnosis. Fovea plana is the absence of a foveal pit in the central fovea, and despite being a developmental abnormality of the fovea, good visual acuity may be retained in some individuals. In this case, a 12-year-old female presented to the ophthalmology clinic with the complaint of blurred vision in her right eye. In dilated fundus examination, optic disc hypoplasia and no foveal light reflex were seen. Magnetic resonance imaging and optical coherence tomography revealed optic nerve, brain midline, and foveal abnormalities. The patient was diagnosed as having SOD with optic nerve hypoplasia and septum pellucidum agenesis, and fovea plana. Both SOD and fovea plana are rare conditions, and there are several reports in the literature that separately describe their clinical features. The most important aspect of this case report is to reveal the unusual co-existence of SOD and fovea plana in a young patient.
Real-world effectiveness of cladribine for Australian patients with multiple sclerosis: An MSBase registry substudy
Authors: Lizak Nathaniel , Hodgkinson Suzanne , Butler Ernest , Lechner-Scott Jeannette , Slee Mark , McCombe Pamela Ann , Shaw Cameron , Skibina Olga , Vucic Steve , Shuey Neil , Barnett Michael H , Parratt John , Butzkueven Helmut , Jack Dominic , Fabris Jessica , Kalincik Tomas
Published: June 2020

Background/objective:

Observational clinical data from cladribine-treated patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) were recorded in the Australian MS registry powered by the MSBase registry platform (5-year follow-up) and analysed to complement information from the pivotal cladribine clinical trials in MS.

Methods:

A cohort of 90 cladribine-treated patients with follow-up data reported by treating physicians and recorded in the Australian MSBase registry (database lock February 2016) were examined. Clinical data included Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, relapses and other disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) administered before and after cladribine treatment.

Results:

Mean age on starting cladribine was 47 years; mean age at MS onset was 34 years, and median baseline EDSS score was 5.25. Disability trajectories in patients with sufficient follow-up suggested an overall increasing trend prior to cladribine treatment which was reduced during the 2-year post-treatment. Approximately 80% of patients were EDSS progression-free, 65% remained relapse-free after 2 years and median time to next DMD was 1.7 years.

Conclusion:

These observational data suggest a disease-modifying effect in this cohort of relapsing MS patients characterised by older and more disabled patients. Since these data represent a single-arm cohort, clinical trials and larger comparative post-marketing studies are needed to validate and extend these findings.
A shaking table substructure testing method for the structural seismic evaluation considering soil-structure interactions
Authors: Xu Guoshan , Ding Yong , Xu Jingfeng , Chen Yongsheng , Wu Bin
Published: June 2020

A novel shaking table substructure testing method that includes interaction forces determined by actuator forces and shaking table dynamic parameters is proposed and validated. The seismic performance of a storage tank that incorporates soil-structure interactions is investigated by the method proposed in this article. The experimental results show that the proposed shaking table substructure testing method is an efficient alternative method of evaluating the seismic performance of a storage tank that incorporates soil-structure interactions. The experimental results show that the influence of the soil-structure interactions increases as the stiffness of the foundation soil decreases, which was demonstrated by the results showing that the displacement and acceleration responses of the storage tank decrease as the stiffness of the foundation soil decreases. Moreover, the influence of the soil-structure interactions increases as the liquid height increases, which was illustrated by the decreased displacement responses of the storage tank with increases in the liquid height. The maximum acceleration response of the storage tank occurred at the liquid surface height.
The comment gap: Affective publics and gatekeeping in The New York Times’ comment sections
Authors: Juarez Miro Clara
Published: June 2020

This study examines journalists’ gatekeeping and audiences’ participation in The New York Times’ (NYT) comment sections. The concepts of affective publics and news gap informed a qualitative content analysis guided by the questions: (1) What are the characteristics of the comments selected for the NYT Picks section? (2) What are the characteristics of the comments selected for the Reader Picks section? (3) What is the overlap between the two types of comment sections depicted in these curated lists? The analysis was conducted on a sample of best comments according to the NYT (563) and its readers (400). Findings reveal that readers and journalists value comment sections differently, only coinciding 17.2% of the time (the comment gap). Both value comment sections as safe spaces for passionate comments. However, while readers reward confrontational, direct, aligned comments, journalists prefer conciliatory, articulate, and diverse ones. Implications for gatekeeping theory and boundary work are discussed.
Gene Therapy in Models of Severe Epilepsy due to Sodium Channelopathy
Authors: Goldberg Ethan M.
Published: June 2020

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COVID-19: UK frontline intensivists' emerging learning
Authors: Montgomery Hugh , Rehill Niran , Camporota Luigi , Credland Nicki , Grocott Mike , Hamilton Mark , Martin Daniel , Patel Brijesh , Suntharalingam Ganesh , Szakmany Tamas , Uddin Shahana , Vercueil Andre , Roberts Mike
Published: June 2020

The Intensive Care Society held a webinar on 3 April 2020 at which representatives from 11 of the most COVID-19 experienced hospital trusts in England and Wales shared learning around five specific topic areas in an open forum. This paper summarises the emerging learning and practice shared by those frontline clinicians.
Prevalence and Recovery From Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunctions in Covid-19 Infection: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Chary Eléonore , Carsuzaa Florent , Trijolet Jean-Paul , Capitaine Anne-Laure , Roncato-Saberan Mariam , Fouet Kevin , Cazenave-Roblot France , Catroux Mélanie , Allix-Beguec Caroline , Dufour Xavier
Published: June 2020

Background

Covid-19 is defined by an association of multiple symptoms, including frequently reported olfactory and gustatory disorders.

Objective

The main purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of these neurosensory impairments in patients with Covid-19, and to assess short-term recovery.

Methods

We performed a multicenter case series study during the Covid-19 epidemic. All patients presenting a RT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included, whether hospitalized or treated at home. To analyze the prevalence and features of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions, a phone interview was conducted 5 days after the positive PCR result. The questionnaire was submitted again 10 days later to patients having reported olfactory and gustatory disorders, in order to assess their recovery.

Results

115 patients were included in our study. 81 patients (70%) reported olfactory and gustatory disorders without nasal obstruction or rhinorrhea. These impairments were more frequently reported in the female population, young people, and house-bound patients with mild symptomatic forms. Short-term recovery assessed at Day 15 was complete for 64% of the patients, and incomplete in 33%. Median recovery time was 15 days (4–27 days) after olfactory or gustatory symptom onset.

Conclusion

Olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to Covid-19 are frequently reported and prevalent in mild symptomatic forms of the disease. Recovery in most cases seems rapid and complete.
Investigating the Health Consequences for White Americans Who Believe White Americans Are Wealthy
Authors: Cooley Erin , Brown-Iannuzzi Jazmin L. , Lei Ryan F. , Philbrook Lauren E. , Cipolli William , McKee Stephanie E.
Published: June 2020

Poor White Americans report feeling “worse off” than poor Black Americans despite the persistent negative effects of racism on Black Americans. Additionally, some health issues are rising among White but not Black Americans. Across two representative samples, we test whether White = wealthy stereotypes lead White Americans to feel relatively worse off than their racial group and whether these perceptions have health consequences. Across both samples, White Americans perceived their own status to be significantly lower than the status of the majority of White Americans. In contrast, Black Americans perceived their own status to be significantly higher than the majority of Black Americans. Critically, status comparisons between the self and one’s racial group predicted the experience of fewer positive emotions among White, but not Black, Americans, which mediated reduced mental and physical health. We conclude that race/class stereotypes may shape how poverty subjectively feels.
The use of cardiac imaging in the evaluation of athletes in the clinical practice: A survey by the Sports Cardiology and Exercise Section of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology and University of Siena, in collaboration with the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging, the European Heart Rhythm Association and the ESC Working Group on Myocardial and Pericardial Diseases
Authors: D’Ascenzi Flavio , Anselmi Francesca , Mondillo Sergio , Finocchiaro Gherardo , Caselli Stefano , Garza María Sanz-De La , Schmied Christian , Adami Paolo Emilio , Galderisi Maurizio , Adler Yehuda , Pantazis Antonis , Niebauer Josef , Heidbuchel Hein , Papadakis Michael , Dendale Paul
Published: June 2020

Aims

Pre-participation evaluation (PPE) is recommended to prevent sudden cardiac death in athletes. Although imaging is not advocated as a first-line screening tool, there is a growing interest in the use of echocardiography in PPE of athletes. This survey aimed to map the use of imaging in the setting of PPE and explore physician beliefs and potential barriers that may influence individual practices.

Methods

An international survey of healthcare professionals was performed across ESC Member Countries. Percentages were reported based on the number of respondents per question.

Results

In total, 603 individuals from 97 countries participated in the survey. Two-thirds (65%) of respondents use echocardiography always or often as part of PPE of competitive athletes and this practice is not influenced by the professional or amateur status of the athlete. The majority (81%) of respondents who use echocardiography as a first-line screening tool perform the first echocardiogram during adolescence or at the first clinical evaluation, and 72% repeat it at least once in the athletes’ career, at 1–5 yearly intervals. In contrast, cardiac magnetic resonance is reserved as a second-line investigation of symptomatic athletes. The majority of the respondents did not report any barriers to echocardiography, while several barriers were identified for cardiac magnetic resonance.

Conclusions

Echocardiography is frequently used as a first-line screening tool of athletes. In the absence of scientific evidence, before such practice is recommended, large studies using echocardiography in the PPE setting are necessary.
Revealing the key point of the temperature stress response of Arthrospira platensis C1 at the interconnection of C- and N- metabolism by proteome analyses and PPI networking
Authors: Kurdrid Pavinee , Phuengcharoen Phutnichar , Senachak Jittisak , Saree Sirilak , Hongsthong Apiradee
Published: June 2020

Background

Growth-temperature stress causes biochemical changes in the cells and reduction of biomass yield. Quantitative proteome of Arthrospira platensis C1 in response to low- and high temperature stresses was previously analysed to elucidate the stress response mechanism. The data highlighted the linkage of signaling proteins and proteins involved in nitrogen and ammonia assimilation, photosynthesis and oxidative stress.

Results

After phosphoproteome analysis was carried out in this study, the tentative temperature response cascade of A. platensis C1 was drawn based on data integration of quantitative proteome and phosphoproteome analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. The integration revealed 31 proteins regulated at the protein-expression and post-translational levels; thus, this group of proteins was designated bi-level regulated proteins. PPI networks were then constructed based on A. platensis C1 gene inference from publicly available interaction data. The key two-component system (TCS) proteins, SPLC1_S082010 and SPLC1_S230960, were identified as bi-level regulated proteins and were linked to SPLC1_S270380 or glutamate synthase, an important enzyme in nitrogen assimilation that synthesizes glutamate from 2-oxoglutarate, which is known as the signal compound that regulates the carbon/nitrogen (C/N) balance of cells. Moreover, the role of the p-site in the PPIs of some phosphoproteins of interest was determined using site-directed mutagenesis and a yeast two-hybrid system. Evidence showing the critical role of the p-site in the PPI was observed for the multi-sensor histidine kinase SPLC1_S041070 (Hik28) and glutamate synthase. PPI subnetwork also showed that the Hik28 involved with the enzymes in fatty acid desaturation and nitrogen metabolism. The effect of Hik28-deletion was validated by fatty acid analysis and measurement of photosynthetic activity under nitrogen depletion.

Conclusions

Taken together, the data clearly represents (i) the multi-level regulation of proteins involved in the stress response mechanism and (ii) the key point of the temperature stress response at the interconnection of C- and N- metabolism.
Factors associated with return of spontaneous circulation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Poland: a one-year retrospective study
Authors: Czapla Michał , Zielińska Marzena , Kubica-Cielińska Anna , Diakowska Dorota , Quinn Tom , Karniej Piotr
Published: June 2020

Background

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a common reason for calls for intervention by emergency medical teams (EMTs) in Poland. Regardless of the mechanism, OHCA is a state in which the chance of survival is dependent on rapid action from bystanders and responding health professionals in emergency medical services (EMS). We aimed to identify factors associated with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

Methods

The medical records of 2137 EMS responses to OHCA in the city of Wroclaw, Poland between July 2017 and June 2018 were analyzed.

Results

The OHCA incidence rate for the year studied was 102 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. EMS were called to 2317 OHCA events of which 1167 (50.4%) did not have resuscitation attempted on EMS arrival. The difference between the number of successful and failed cardiopulmonary resuscitations (CPRs) was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Of 1150 patients in whom resuscitation was attempted, ROSC was achieved in 250 (27.8%). Rate of ROSC was significantly higher when CPR was initiated by bystanders (p < 0.001). Patients presenting with asystole or pulseless electrical activity (PEA) had a higher risk of CPR failure (86%) than those with ventricular fibrillation/ventricular tachycardia (VF/VT). Patients with VF/VT had a higher chance of ROSC (OR 2.68, 1.86–3.85) than those with asystole (p < 0.001). The chance of ROSC was 1.78 times higher when the event occurred in a public place (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The factors associated with ROSC were occurrence in a public place, CPR initiation by witnesses, and presence of a shockable rhythm. Gender, age, and the type of EMT did not influence ROSC. Low bystander CPR rates reinforce the need for further efforts to train the public in CPR.
Weighted Epworth sleepiness scale predicted the apnea-hypopnea index better
Authors: Guo Qi , Song Wei-dong , Li Wei , Zeng Chao , Li Yan-hong , Mo Jian-ming , Lü Zhong-dong , Jiang Mei
Published: June 2020

Background

The relationship between the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) is uncertain and even poor. The major problem associated with the ESS might be a lack of consideration of weight in prediction in clinical practice. Would awarding different item-scores to the four scales of ESS items to develop a weighted ESS scoring system improve the accuracy of the AHI prediction? It is warranted to explore the intriguing hypotheses.

Methods

Seven hundred fifty-six adult patients with suspicion of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) were prospectively recruited to a derivation cohort. This was tested against a prospective validation cohort of 810 adult patients with suspected OSAS. Each ESS item’s increased odds ratio for the corresponding AHI was calculated using univariate logistic regression. The receiver operating characteristic curves were created and the areas under the curves (AUCs) were calculated to illustrate and compare the accuracy of the indices.

Results

The higher the ESS item-score, the closer the relationship with the corresponding AHI. The odds ratios decreased as a result of the increased AHI. The ESS items were of unequal weight in predicting the corresponding AHI and a weighted ESS was developed. The coincidence rates with the corresponding AHI, body mass indices, and neck circumferences rose as the scores increased, whereas nocturnal nadir oxygen saturations decreased, and the weighted ESS was more strongly associated with these indices, compared with the ESS. The capability in predicting the patients without OSAS or with severe OSAS was strong, especially the latter, and the weighted ESS orchestrated manifest improvement in screening the patients with simple snoring. The patterns of sensitivities, specificities, and Youden’s indices of the four ranks of weighted ESS for predicting the corresponding AHI were better than those of the ESS, and the AUCs of weighted ESS were greater than the corresponding areas of ESS in the two cohorts.

Conclusions

The weighted ESS orchestrated significant improvement in predicting the AHI, indicating that the capability in predicting the patients without OSAS or with severe OSAS was strong, which might have implications for clinical triage decisions to prioritize patients for polysomnography.
Prognostic implications of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/pulmonary arterial systolic pressure ratio in septic shock patients
Authors: Zhang Hongmin , Lian Hui , Zhang Qing , Chen Xiukai , Wang Xiaoting , Liu Dawei
Published: June 2020

Background

To explore the association between the ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP), and long- and short-term outcomes in mechanically ventilated septic shock patients.

Methods

Septic shock patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) were screened for enrollment. Echocardiographic parameters including TAPSE and tricuspid regurgitation velocity, haemodynamic and respiratory parameters, and prognostic data were obtained.

Results

One hundred eighteen subjects were enrolled in this study, among whom 75 survived and 43 died at the one-year follow-up. ROC curve analysis revealed that the TAPSE/PASP ratio was able to assess one-year all-cause mortality with an area under the curve of 0.817 (95% CI: 0.739–0.896, p < 0.001) and the optimal cutoff value was 0.50 mm/mmHg. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that one-year all-cause mortality was significantly higher in patients with TAPSE/PASP ≤0.5 mm/mmHg than in patients with TAPSE/PASP > 0.5 mm/mmHg (log-rank 32.934, p < 0.001). According to the Cox regression survival analyses, the TAPSE/PASP ratio was independently associated with one-year all-cause mortality (HR 0.007, 95% CI:0.000–0.162, p = 0.002) and ICU mortality (HR 0.027, 95% CI:0.001–0.530, p = 0.017). According to the multivariable analysis, the TAPSE/PASP ratio was an independent variable associated with mechanical ventilation (MV) duration (standard coefficient − 0.240, p = 0.010).

Conclusion

The TAPSE/PASP ratio demonstrated prognostic value for one-year all-cause mortality, ICU mortality and MV duration in mechanically ventilated septic shock patients.
The HIV care continuum and HIV-1 drug resistance among female sex workers: a key population in Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Lindman Jacob , Djalo Mamadu Aliu , Biai Ansu , Månsson Fredrik , Esbjörnsson Joakim , Jansson Marianne , Medstrand Patrik , Norrgren Hans ,   the SWEGUB CORE group, N’Buna Babetida , Biague Antonio , Biai Ansu , Camara Cidia , da Silva Zacarias Jose , Esbjörnsson Joakim , Jansson Marianne , Karlson Sara , Lindman Jacob , Medstrand Patrik , Månsson Fredrik , Norrgren Hans , Sahin Gülsen Özkaya , Wilhelmson Sten
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Female sex workers (FSW) are considered a key group for HIV transmissions in sub-Saharan Africa. The HIV Care Continuum and HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) among FSW has not been well studied in most countries in West Africa. In the current study we describe the HIV Care continuum and prevalence of HIVDR among FSW in Guinea-Bissau.

Methods

A venue-based recruitment and peer-referral of FSW was used in seven cities in Guinea-Bissau from October 2014 to September 2017. We administered a questionnaire, performed discriminatory HIV-testing and collected blood specimens for CD4 count, viral load and HIVDR genotyping.

Results

The survey included 440 FSW. The overall HIV-prevalence among FSW was 26.8%. Of the HIV-1 (HIV-1 single- or dually HIV-1/HIV-2) infected FSW (N = 104), 58.7% were previously diagnosed with HIV-1 at enrolment and 41.4% reported taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) compared to 28.6% of the HIV-2 single-infected FSW (N = 14). Among HIV-1 infected FSW on ART (N = 43), 55.8% were virally suppressed (< 1000 copies/ml) and of all HIV-1 infected FSW, 29.8% were virally suppressed. Among ART experienced FSW (N = 22), 50.0% had HIVDR. HIVDR was also found in 9.4% of treatment naïve FSW (N = 53).

Conclusion

The majority of FSW who knew their HIV status received ART, however a large proportion of FSW were not aware of their HIV positive status. This translated into a great majority of the HIV-infected FSW not being virally suppressed. Amongst treatment naïve FSW nearly a tenth had HIVDR, suggesting that sexual transmission of HIVDR is occurring in this at-risk-population.
Pilot prospective open-label one-arm trial investigating intrathecal Adenosine in neuropathic pain after lumbar discectomy
Authors: Aghamohammadi Dawood , Eydi Mahmood , Pishgahi Alireza , Esmaeilinejad Azam , Dolatkhah Neda
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Adenosine has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory role and its injections are used for perioperative pain management. We aimed to study efficacy of intrathecal injection of adenosine for post-operative radicular pain after lumbar discectomy. Forty patients with unilevel lumbar discectomy who had radicular lower limb pain were treated by 1000 micrograms of intrathecal injection of adenosine in this single-arm prospective open-label trial between November 2015 to October 2016. Radicular pain severity using visual analogue scale (VAS) and pain killer consumption per day were assessed during a 3 months follow up period.

Results

Radicular pain severity was significantly reduced in 3 month follow-up period in comparison to the baseline (F = 19,760, df = 2.53, p-value < 0.001). Further, painkiller medication consumption rate in average during 3 month follow-up period after injection was significantly lower in comparison to baseline (F = 19.244, df = 1.98, p-value < 0.001). This study suggests that intrathecal injection of 1000 micrograms adenosine is a safe and effective method for post-operative neuropathic pain management after uni-level disk surgeries.

Trial registration IRCT201608171772N20, Retrospectively registered on 2016-08-28.
Development of a new virtual reality test of cognition: assessing the test-retest reliability, convergent and ecological validity of CONVIRT
Authors: Horan Ben , Heckenberg Rachael , Maruff Paul , Wright Bradley
Published: June 2020

Background

Technological advances provide an opportunity to refine tools that assess central nervous system performance. This study aimed to assess the test-retest reliability and convergent and ecological validity of a newly developed, virtual-reality, concussion assessment tool, ‘CONVIRT’, which uses eye-tracking technology to assess visual processing speed, and manual reaction time (pushing a button on a riding crop) to assess attention and decision-making. CONVIRT was developed for horse jockeys, as of all sportspersons, they are most at risk of concussion.

Methods

Participants (N = 165), were assessed with CONVIRT, which uses virtual reality to give the user the experience of riding a horse during a horserace. Participants were also assessed with standard Cogstate computer-based concussion measures in-between two completions of the CONVIRT battery. The physiological arousal induced by the test batteries were assessed via measures of heart rate and heart rate variability (LF/HF ratio).

Results

Satisfactory test-retest reliability and convergent validity with Cogstate attention and decision-making subtests and divergent validity in visual processing speed measures were observed. CONVIRT also increased heart rate and LF/HF ratio, which may better approximate participant arousal levels in their workplace.

Conclusions

CONVIRT may be a reliable and valid tool to assess elements of cognition and CNS disruption. The increased ecological validity may also mean better informed ‘return-to-play’ decisions and stronger industry acceptance due to the real-world meaningfulness of the assessment. However, before this can be achieved, the sensitivity of the CONVIRT battery needs to be demonstrated.
Pottery production and trades in Tamil Nadu region: new insights from Alagankulam and Keeladi excavation sites
Authors: Odelli E. , Selvaraj T. , Perumal J. , Palleschi V. , Legnaioli S. , Raneri S.
Published: June 2020

This research is part of a wider scientific Italian-Indo project finalised to shed lights on pottery fabrication and trade circulation in Tamil Nadu region during Early Historical Period. The recent archaeological excavations carried out in Alagankulam—a famous harbour trading with the eastern and western world—and in Keeladi—the most ancient civilization centre attested in Tamil Nadu region—provided numerous fragments of archaeological ceramics. The typological analysis enabled the identification of different pottery classes, suggesting the presence of local productions, possible imports and imitations. Studied shards included common Indian vessels, fine wares and luxury ware repertoire. The provenance identification of some of the studied typologies is still debated in the literature; for long time, the misattribution of several ceramic classes has led to wrong interpretations on the commercial connections between India and the Western and Eastern Mediterranean area. The minero-petrographic and spectroscopic investigation of several ceramic fragments from the two investigated archaeological sites enabled the systematic compositional characterization of specific ceramic classes both locally manufactured and imported. The obtained results contributed to draw short-range and long-range connections in Tamil Nadu area.