bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of Power Transform Mixing Ratios as Hydrometeor Control Variables for Direct Assimilation of Radar Reflectivity in GSI En3DVar and Tests with Five Convective Storm Cases
Authors: Chen Lianglyu , Liu Chengsi , Xue Ming , Zhao Gang , Kong Rong , Jung Youngsun 
Published: December 2020

AbstractWhen directly assimilating radar data within a variational framework using hydrometeor mixing ratios (q) as control variables (CVq), the gradient of the cost function becomes extremely large when background mixing ratio is close to zero. This significantly slows down minimization convergence and makes the assimilation of radial velocity and other observations ineffective because of the dominance of the reflectivity observation term in the cost function gradient. Using logarithmic hydrometeor mixing ratios as control variables (CV logq) can alleviate the problem but the high nonlinearity of logarithmic transformation can introduce spurious analysis increments into mixing ratios. In this study, power transform of hydrometeors is proposed to form new control variables (CVpq) where the nonlinearity of transformation can be adjusted by a tuning exponent or power parameter p. The performance of assimilating radar data using CVpq is compared with those using CVq and CV logq for the analyses and forecasts of five convective storm cases from the spring of 2017. Results show that CVpq with p = 0.4 (CVpq0.4) gives the best reflectivity forecasts in terms of root-mean-square error and equitable threat score. Furthermore, CVpq0.4 has faster convergence of cost function minimization than CVq and produces less spurious analysis increment than CV logq. Compared to CVq and CV logq, CVpq0.4 has better skills of 0–3-h composite reflectivity forecasts, and the updraft helicity tracks for the 16 May 2017 Texas and Oklahoma tornado outbreak case are more consistent with observations when using CVpq0.4.
Effects of low- and high-frequency electroacupuncture on protein expression and distribution of TRPV1 and P2X3 in rats with peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Du Junying , Fang Junfan , Xiang Xuaner , Yu Jie , Le Xiaoqin , Liang Yi , Jin Xiaoming , Fang Jianqiao 
Published: December 2020

Background: Whether electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation at different frequencies has a similar effect on spared nerve injury (SNI) as other neuropathic pain models, and how EA at different frequencies causes distinct analgesic effects on neuropathic pain is still not clear. Methods: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham SNI, SNI, 2 Hz, 100 Hz and sham EA groups. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured. EA was performed once a day on days 1 to 14 after SNI. The expressions of transient receptor potential cation subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and peripheral purinergic P2X receptor 3 (P2X3) were determined by western blotting and immunofluorescence. TRPV1 siRNA and P2X3 siRNA were administered by intrathecal injection. TRPV1 or P2X3 agonists were combined with EA. Results: There were significant decreases in PWT, but no changes in PWL in the 14 days after SNI. EA using 2- or 100-Hz stimulation similarly increased PWT at every time point. The cytosol protein expression of P2X3 in the L4–L6 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) increased, but the expression of TRPV1 decreased in the SNI model. Both these effects were ameliorated by EA, with 2-Hz stimulation having a stronger effect than 100-Hz stimulation. Blocking either TRPV1 or P2X3 specific siRNAs attenuated the decreased PWT induced by SNI. Administration of either a TRPV1 or P2X3 agonist inhibited EA analgesia. Conclusion: 2- and 100-Hz EA similarly induced analgesic effects in SNI. This effect was related to up-regulation and down-regulation, respectively, of cytosol protein expression of P2X3 and TRPV1 in L4–L6 DRG, with 2 Hz having a better effect than 100 Hz.
Vitrectomy with air tamponade and cryotherapy for retinal detachment repair without perfluorocarbon use: A UK 12-month prospective case series
Authors: Moussa George , Mathews Namita , Makhzoum Osama , Park Dong Y 
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is commonly managed by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Gas tamponade has significant clinical and quality of life factors that affect the patient. Using shorter acting air tamponade, intuitively leads to surgical concern for higher rate of primary detachment. To circumvent this, surgeons advocate the use of perfluorocarbon to maximise sub-retinal-fluid drainage when using air tamponade and/or avoid using cryotherapy due to longer duration for scar formation relative to laser. These steps are a deviation from traditional technique for otherwise routine primary RRD repair and discourages popularisation of using air tamponade despite the benefits to patients. Method: Prospective 12-month, single centre, single surgeon, consecutive study from January to December 2019. Inclusion criteria was as per based on the pneumatic retinopexy versus vitrectomy for retinal detachment: (i) single retinal break or group of breaks, no larger than 1-clock-hour (30°), in detached retina; (ii) all breaks in detached retina lie above the 8 to 4 o’clock meridian; and (iii) breaks or lattice degeneration in attached retina at any location. We excluded PVR formation and RRD in the inferior 4 o’clock hours. Results: We report primary and final success rate of 96% and 100%, respectively in 23 eyes (22 macular-on and one macular-off) with RRD eyes in a 12-month period. Cryopexy was utilised in 65% patients and in isolation in 23% with no perfluorocarbon use in all eyes. Conclusion: We show cryotherapy can be used safely in AT-RRD without PFCL in RRD fulfilling PIVOT trial criteria with minimal cataract formation and IOP spikes and faster post-operative visual rehabilitation.
Block models for generalized multipartite networks: Applications in ecology and ethnobiology
Authors: Bar-Hen Avner , Barbillon Pierre , Donnet Sophie 
Published: December 2020

Generalized multipartite networks consist in the joint observation of several networks implying some common pre-specified groups of individuals. Such complex networks arise commonly in social sciences, biology, ecology, etc. We propose a flexible probabilistic model named Multipartite Block Model (MBM) able to unravel the topology of multipartite networks by identifying clusters (blocks) of nodes sharing the same patterns of connectivity across the collection of networks they are involved in. The model parameters are estimated through a variational version of the Expectation–Maximization algorithm. The numbers of blocks are chosen using an Integrated Completed Likelihood criterion specifically designed for our model. A simulation study illustrates the robustness of the inference strategy. Finally, two datasets respectively issued from ecology and ethnobiology are analyzed with the MBM in order to illustrate its flexibility and its relevance for the analysis of real datasets. The inference procedure is implemented in an R -package GREMLIN , available on Github ( https://github.com/Demiperimetre/GREMLINhttps://github.com/Demiperimetre/GREMLIN ).
Early Outcomes of Isolated Aortic Valve Replacement Through Right Anterior Minithoracotomy Using the Latest-Generation Biological Prosthesis
Authors: Amirjamshidi Hossein , Vidovich Courtney , Goodman Ariana , Knight Peter A. 
Published: December 2020

Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate early and intermediate outcomes and hemodynamics of the latest-generation Trifecta valve implanted using right anterior minithoracotomy. Methods We performed a single-center, retrospective, observational study including 175 individuals who underwent isolated minimally invasive aortic valve replacement with the latest-generation Trifecta valves through a right anterior minithoracotomy between January 2016 and January 2019. Exclusion criteria for follow-up echocardiographic study included concomitant procedures, conversion to median sternotomy, and nonsurvival during the index admission. Analyses addressed implantation safety, 30-day and intermediate-term survival and hemodynamic performance of the valves. Results Overall, patients were followed with duration ranging from 0.5 to 3 years. Early (<30 days) mortality occurred in 2 patients (1.1%), and there were 9 (5.1%) late (>30 days) deaths. Early thromboembolic events and postoperative bleeding requiring reoperation occurred at a rate of 4.0% ( n = 7) and 6.2% ( n = 11), respectively. Overall in 175 patients who met inclusion criteria for the follow-up echocardiography study, mean gradients across all valve sizes were 41.3 ± 14.9 (standard deviation) mm Hg preoperatively and remained low at 7.2 ± 3.9 mm Hg with mean effective orifice area of 1.8 ± 0.5 cm2 on the last follow-up echo. There was 1 case of infective prosthetic endocarditis, which did not require valve explant. There were no reoperations due to valve-related problems during the study period. Conclusions This is the largest series reporting on outcomes of the latest-generation Trifecta valve implanted using right anterior minithoracotomy. Our results demonstrate that this valve can be safely implanted via a minimally invasive approach with excellent early and intermediate outcomes and hemodynamic performance.
From Uncommon Infection to Multi-Cranial Palsy: Malignant External Otitis Insights
Authors: Ferlito Salvatore , Maniaci Antonino , Di Luca Milena , Grillo Calogero , Mannelli Lorenzo , Salvatore Marco , La Mantia Ignazio , Spinato Giacomo , Cocuzza Salvatore 
Published: December 2020

Purpose: The progression of the otitic infectious process toward diseases of particular severity is often unpredictable, just as it is challenging to manage the patient over time, even after the apparent resolution of the disease. We aim to define a radiological reading key that allows us to correctly and promptly treat the disease, avoiding the possible severe complications. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 13 cases of basal cranial osteomyelitis (SBO) due to malignant external otitis, by the ENT Department of the University of Catania. Through a standardized approach and following the latest guidelines, we have evaluated all patients performing a standardized and personalized radiological protocol according to the stage of the patient’s pathology and modulating the treatment consequently. Results: Clinical signs have been observed such as otorrhea (100%), otalgia in 13/13 patients (100%), granulations in external auditory canal (100%), preauricular cellulitis in 9/13 patients (69%) headache 6/13 cases (46%), dysphonia 4/13 cases (31%). HRCT of the temporal bone proved useful in identifying even minimal bone lesions in 13/13 (100%) while improving MRI in vascular and nervous involvement, although in 1/13 patient with nerve palsy clinical symptomatology preceded radiological evidence. The 99mTc 3-phase planar bone scintigraphy was positive for SBO in 9/13 cases (69%) during the initial phase and, in 100% of the cases in images delayed to 2-3 hours. Subsequent checks up to 1 year, using the Ga 67 scintigraphy, excluded the presence of recurrences in 100% of patients. Conclusion: The osteomyelitis of the base of the skull is a severe complication of malignant external otitis, often not always easily diagnosed. Recurrence can occur up to 1 year after stopping therapy. Imaging techniques such as Tc and MRI are relevant for the initial diagnostic approach and the staging of the pathology and its complications. Nuclear medicine imaging plays a fundamental role in the evaluation of related osteoblastic activity, especially in the remission phase of the disease.
Characteristics of Femoral Torsion Angles and Relationships Between Femoral Torsion Angles and Hip Rotational Motion Variables in Adult Baseball Players
Authors: Takeuchi Satoshi , Sugimoto Katsumasa , Goto Hideyuki , Tsuchiya Atsushi , Takenaga Tetsuya , Takaba Keishi , Saito Masayoshi , Futamura Hidenori , Murakami Hideki , Yoshida Masahito 
Published: December 2020

Background: Abnormalities in hip rotational motion (HRM) are risk factors for throwing injuries. To evaluate hip rotational motion, it is necessary to assess the torsion angle. However, no studies have investigated the femoral torsion angle (FTA) in baseball players. Purpose: To investigate differences in hip FTA of adult baseball players through use of ultrasonography to evaluate the relationship between the FTA and HRM. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A total of 149 elite male baseball players (mean age, 20.0 ± 1.8 years; 64 pitchers, 85 position players) were enrolled in this study. Ultrasonographic assessment of FTA was performed based on the tilting angles of the anterior surface of the femoral neck and condylar axis. The hip internal rotation (HIR) and hip external rotation (HER) were assessed at 0° and 90° of flexion. Data related to FTA and HRM were compared between hips and between pitchers and position players. Results: No significant difference was observed in the FTAs between hips for any player (lead hip, 20.5° ± 9.2°; trail hip, 19.6° ± 9.8°; P = .276). No significant difference was observed in FTAs of both hips between pitchers and position players (lead hip, 20.1° ± 9.4° and 20.9° ± 9.0°, respectively, P = .957; trail hip, 19.5° ± 9.8° and 19.7° ± 9.8°, P = .999). In terms of HER in 90° of hip flexion in both hips, significant differences were observed in HRM variables between pitchers and position players (lead hip, 33.0° ± 8.9° and 37.5° ± 9.8°, respectively, P = .024; trail hip, 35.6° ± 9.6° and 40.4° ± 10.2°, P = .035). Linear regression analysis revealed a significant agreement between the FTA and HIR at both 0° ( R = 0.298, P < .001) and 90° of hip flexion ( R = 0.279, P < .001). Conclusion: Our findings indicated that FTAs were not different between the hips of elite baseball players. Abnormalities of the HRM are not caused by differences in the FTA but rather involve soft tissue tightness around the hip area or other bony morphologic factors in the hip joint.
Who Passes Return-to-Sport Tests, and Which Tests Are Most Strongly Associated With Return to Play After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction?
Authors: Webster Kate E. , Feller Julian A. 
Published: December 2020

Background: Return-to-sport (RTS) testing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) surgery has become popular. It has been recommended that such testing should incorporate several domains, or set of tests, but it is unclear which are most associated with a successful RTS. Purpose: To determine (1) the proportion of patients who can pass a set of self-report and functional tests at 6 months after ACLR; (2) age, sex, and activity level differences between patients who pass and those who do not; and (3) whether specific types of tests are associated with a return to competitive sport at 12 months. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study of 450 patients who had primary ACLR. At 6 months postoperatively, patients completed 2 self-report measures, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee form and ACL–Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale, and 3 functional measures: single hop and triple crossover hop for distance and isokinetic quadriceps strength. Limb symmetry index scores of ≥90 for functional tests, IKDC scores ≥85, and ACL-RSI scores ≥65 were considered indicators of satisfactory recovery. Proportional statistics and contingency analysis were used to determine associations between age, sex, preinjury sports level, and (1) meeting test thresholds and (2) RTS at 12 months. Results: Only 17 (3.8%) patients met all 5 test criteria at 6 months, and 95 (21%) patients did not pass any test. More of the younger patients (<21 years) passed all of the functional tests ( P < .01), and more male patients met the IKDC threshold ( P = .03). Patients who played level I sports before injury had the same pass rates as those who played level II/III sports. Patients who passed the thresholds for the ACL-RSI and IKDC scales had 4 and 3 times the odds, respectively, of RTS at 12 months (both P < .0001). Meeting the threshold for quadriceps strength or either of the hop tests at 6 months was not associated with RTS. Conclusion: At 6 months after ACLR, few patients met all of the thresholds of the common tests used to assess RTS ability, although younger patients had higher rates of passing the functional tests. Self-perceived symptoms/function and psychological readiness were associated with a return at 12 months.
Fighting against COVID-19: preparedness and implications on clinical practice in primary care in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Tse Desiree Man-Sik , Li Zhuo , Lu Ye , Li Yang , Liu Ying , Wong William Chi Wai 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background
The new coronavirus pneumonia (NCP) caused by COVID-19 has affected more than 46 million people worldwide. In China, primary care has played a vital role during the COVID-19 outbreak, and it is important to examine the challenges faced by general practitioners (GPs). This study investigated the roles, preparedness and training needs of GPs in China in managing the NCP outbreak. Based on the outcomes of the study, we hope to take lessons and identify how GPs could be supported in delivering their gatekeeping roles and clinical duties in times of infectious disease outbreak.

Methods
An online survey on the official website of Shenzhen Continuing Education Center. It included questions on GPs’ demographics, their awareness of COVID-19 and their preparedness in managing suspected cases of NCP, as well as referrals and their training needs. Conditional multi-variate logistic models were used to investigate the relationships between GPs’ preparedness, situational confidence and anxiety.

Results
GPs’ clinical practice was significantly affected. GPs endeavoured to answer a flood of COVID-19-related enquiries, while undertaking community preventive tasks. In addition to in-person consultations, GP promoted COVID-19 awareness and education through telephone consultations, physical posters and social media. Overall GPs in Shenzhen felt well supported with adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and resources from secondary care services. Higher levels of self-perceived preparedness (OR = 2.19; 95%CI, 1.04–4.61), lower level of anxiety (OR = 0.56; 95%CI, 0.29–1.09) and fewer perceived family worries (OR = 0.37; 95%CI, 0.12–1.12) were associated with better confidence in coping at work.

Conclusions
Training and supporting GPs while reducing their (and their families’) anxiety increase their confidence in delivering the important roles of gatekeeping in face of major disease outbreaks.
Increased care at discharge from COVID-19: The association between pre-admission frailty and increased care needs after hospital discharge; a multicentre European observational cohort study
Authors:   on behalf of the COPE Study, Vilches-Moraga A. , Price A. , Braude P. , Pearce L. , Short R. , Verduri A. , Stechman M. , Collins J. T. , Mitchell E. , Einarsson A. G. , Moug S. J. , Quinn T. J. , Stubbs B. , McCarthy K. , Myint P. K. , Hewitt J. , Carter B. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant pressure on health and social care. Survivors of COVID-19 may be left with substantial functional deficits requiring ongoing care. We aimed to determine whether pre-admission frailty was associated with increased care needs at discharge for patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19.MethodsPatients were included if aged over 18 years old and admitted to hospital with COVID-19 between 27 February and 10 June 2020. The Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) was used to assess pre-admission frailty status. Admission and discharge care levels were recorded. Data were analysed using a mixed-effects logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, smoking status, comorbidities, and admission CRP as a marker of severity of disease.ResultsThirteen hospitals included patients: 1671 patients were screened, and 840 were excluded including, 521 patients who died before discharge (31.1%). Of the 831 patients who were discharged, the median age was 71 years (IQR, 58–81 years) and 369 (44.4%) were women. The median length of hospital stay was 12 days (IQR 6–24). Using the CFS, 438 (47.0%) were living with frailty (≥ CFS 5), and 193 (23.2%) required an increase in the level of care provided. Multivariable analysis showed that frailty was associated with an increase in care needs compared to patients without frailty (CFS 1–3). The adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were as follows: CFS 4, 1.99 (0.97–4.11); CFS 5, 3.77 (1.94–7.32); CFS 6, 4.04 (2.09–7.82); CFS 7, 2.16 (1.12–4.20); and CFS 8, 3.19 (1.06–9.56).ConclusionsAround a quarter of patients admitted with COVID-19 had increased care needs at discharge. Pre-admission frailty was strongly associated with the need for an increased level of care at discharge. Our results have implications for service planning and public health policy as well as a person's functional outcome, suggesting that frailty screening should be utilised for predictive modelling and early individualised discharge planning.
Publicidades em revista digital: sua relação com a homepage e implicações para leitura
Authors: Fenna Jakeline De Melo , Da Luz Tania Pereira 
Published: December 2020

A linguagem digital está presente no cotidiano de muitas pessoas em diversas situações. Por esta razão, muitos gêneros e suportes do meio impresso se deslocaram e/ou adaptaram-se ao ambiente virtual. Entre eles, temos o suporte revista, com seus vários gêneros. Esta pesquisa trata das publicidades em duas revistas digitais em Língua Espanhola, sua relação com o gênero homepage e possíveis implicações na leitura. Como resultados, concluímos que a relação entre os dois gêneros analisados se dá de maneira diferente devido ao suporte em que estão inseridos.Variam, não só porque saem do meio impresso, mas, inclusive, dentro do ambiente digital. E, com isso, reforça-se a importância da leitura como uma atividade a ser ensinada, para que o leitor se torne proficiente no contato com os diversos gêneros que circulam em seu meio, tendo um posicionamento crítico e ativo no processo de compreensão leitora.
Economic impact of medical genetic testing on clinical applications in Thailand
Authors: Jittikoon Jiraphun , Sangroongruangsri Sermsiri , Thavorncharoensap Montarat , Chitpim Natthakan , Chaikledkaew Usa 
Published: December 2020

Background
Although the clinical benefits of medical genetic testing have been proven, there has been limited evidence on its economic impact in Thai setting. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the economic impact of genetic testing services provided by the Center for Medical Genomics (CMG) in Thailand.

Methods
Cost-benefit analysis was conducted from provider and societal perspectives. Cost and output data of genetic testing services provided by the CMG during 2014 to 2018 and published literature reviews were applied to estimate the costs and benefits. Monetary benefits related to genetic testing services were derived through human capital approach.

Results
The total operation cost was 126 million baht over five years with an average annual cost of 21 million baht per year. The net benefit, benefit-to-cost ratio, and return on investment were 5,477 million baht, 43 times, and 42 times, respectively. Productivity gain was the highest proportion (50.57%) of the total benefit.

Conclusions
The provision of genetic testing services at the CMG gained much more benefits than the cost. This study highlighted a good value for money in the establishment of medical genomics settings in Thailand and other developing countries.