bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic comparison of anterior leads T-wave inversion and McGinn-White sign in suspected acute pulmonary embolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Laurentius Andrea , Ariani Rina 
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Acute pulmonary embolism is the leading cause of cardiovascular mortality in which only 7% of total suspected cases were correctly diagnosed. Prompt diagnosis is essential to reduce disease burden. 12-lead electrocardiography has become standard of examination in any acute cardiovascular setting. Several abnormalities associated with right ventricular dysfunction include the classic McGinn-White and anterior leads T-wave inversion pattern due to conduction abnormalities. Nevertheless, studies conducting research in evaluating diagnostic values of both patterns have not come to definite conclusion. This review evaluates the diagnostic value of T-wave inversions in anterior leads difference compared to that of McGinn-White sign in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism. Methods: Literature searching was conducted from medical databases. Inclusion-exclusion criteria and study eligibility were assessed to select the included studies in this systematic review. Three final articles were selected and critically appraised using the Oxford Center of Evidence-Based Medicine appraisal tools for diagnostic study. Results: Considering the compared importance of selected studies, T-wave inversion shows better specificity (90.9% vs 88.7%) and sensitivity (35.5% vs 28.9%) although both signs exhibit minor impact in terms of sensitivity index. Analyses suggest higher averaged accuracy (accuracy index) and Youden index found in T-wave inversion than that of McGinn-White sign (accuracy index: 57.97% vs 56.16%; Youden index: 0.16 vs 0.12), providing more meaningful diagnostic value. Furthermore, anterior leads T-wave inversion possesses better diagnostic odds ratio than that of McGinn-White sign (5.52 vs 3.17). Conclusion: Anterior lead T-wave inversions present better diagnostic value than that of classic pattern of McGinn-White sign in electrocardiographic presentation of suspected acute pulmonary embolism.
Medium-Term Results of Corticosteroid Injections for Morton’s Neuroma
Authors: Hau Melinda Yun Ting , Thomson Lauren , Aujla Randeep , Madhadevan Devendra , Bhatia Maneesh 
Published: October 2020

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the medium-term results of corticosteroid injections for Morton’s neuroma. Methods: This was a prospective follow-up study of a previous randomized controlled trial (RCT). Forty-five neuromas in 36 patients were injected with a single corticosteroid injection either with or without ultrasound guidance. As the results of the RCT showed no difference in outcomes between techniques, the data were pooled for the purpose of this study. Questionnaires were sent out and responses were collected via mail or telephone interview. Results were available in 42 out of 45 neuromas. There was a sex split of 68% female/32% male with a mean age of 62.6 years (SD, 12 years). Results: At mean follow-up of 4.8 years (SD, 0.91 years), the original corticosteroid injection remained effective in 36% ( n = 16) of the patients. In these cases, the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score ( P < .001) and Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire Index (MOxFQ Index) ( P = .001) remained significantly better than preintervention scores. The remaining cases underwent either a further injection or surgery. Fifty-five percent of the 11 neuromas that received a second injection continued to be asymptomatic in the medium term. Overall, 44% ( n = 20) of the initial cohort underwent surgical excision by the medium-term follow-up. The VAS score, MOxFQ Index, and satisfaction scale score across all groups were not significantly different. Conclusion: Corticosteroid injections for Morton’s neuroma remained effective in over a third of cases for up to almost 5 years. A positive outcome at 1 year following a corticosteroid injection was reasonably predictive of a prolonged effect from the injection. Level of Evidence: Level II, prospective comparative study.
Imaging Findings of Esophageal Sarcomatoid Carcinoma: Case Report
Authors: Zhao Yue , Xu Jing , Zhong Jian , Du Wei , Yang Bin 
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the imaging findings and pathological features, differential diagnosis of esophageal sarcomatoid carcinoma. Methods: Three cases of esophageal sarcomatoid carcinoma (ESC) proved by histology was retrospectively analyzed, and related literature were reviewed. Results: Two cases of barium in the digestive tract showed an irregular filling defect in the thoracic esophagus. The edges are clear, the surface of the tumor is irregular, and the niche is visible. The long axis of the tumor is the same as the esophagus, esophageal expansion, and the mucosa of the lesion area is destroyed. CT scan of 1 case showed a ellipse-like pedicle solid mass in the lower esophagus, the pedicle, and back wall is linked together, the back wall is slight thick, and esophageal eccentric stenosis, homogeneous density, lesions showed moderate enhancement, and the peripheral enhancement was relatively obvious in the central region, and the pedicle was not clear with the right posterior wall of esophagus. Intraoperative observation showed that the tumor was solid, rubbery, and the pedicle was closely related to the right posterior wall of esophagus. All 3 cases were pathologically diagnosed as esophageal sarcomatoid carcinoma. Conclusion: ESC is uncommon, the imaging features have some characteristics, accurate diagnosis depends on the pathological examination.
Increased functional sensorimotor network efficiency relates to disability in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Strik Myrte , Chard Declan T , Dekker Iris , Meijer Kim A , Eijlers Anand JC , Pardini Matteo , Uitdehaag Bernard MJ , Kolbe Scott C , Geurts Jeroen JG , Schoonheim Menno M 
Published: October 2020

Background: Network abnormalities could help explain physical disability in multiple sclerosis (MS), which remains poorly understood. Objective: This study investigates functional network efficiency changes in the sensorimotor system. Methods: We included 222 MS patients, divided into low disability (LD, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ⩽3.5, n = 185) and high disability (HD, EDSS ⩾6, n = 37), and 82 healthy controls (HC). Functional connectivity was assessed between 23 sensorimotor regions. Measures of efficiency were computed and compared between groups using general linear models corrected for age and sex. Binary logistic regression models related disability status to local functional network efficiency (LE), brain volumes and demographics. Functional connectivity patterns of regions important for disability were explored. Results: HD patients demonstrated significantly higher LE of the left primary somatosensory cortex (S1) and right pallidum compared to LD and HC, and left premotor cortex compared to HC only. The logistic regression model for disability ( R2 = 0.38) included age, deep grey matter volume and left S1 LE. S1 functional connectivity was increased with prefrontal and secondary sensory areas in HD patients, compared to LD and HC. Conclusion: Clinical disability in MS associates with functional sensorimotor increases in efficiency and connectivity, centred around S1, independent of structural damage.
Effects of Low-Dose X-Ray on Cell Growth, Membrane Permeability, DNA Damage and Gene Transfer Efficiency
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Lv Ming-Yue , Huang Yao-Xiong 
Published: October 2020

Background: We aimed to reveal if low dose X-rays would induce harmful or beneficial effect or dual response on biological cells and whether there are conditions the radiation can enhance gene transfer efficiency and promote cell growth but without damage to the cells. Method: A systematic study was performed on the effects of Kilo-V and Mega-V X-rays on the cell morphology, viability, membrane permeability, DNA damage, and gene transfection of 293 T and CHO cells. Results: The Kilo-V X-rays of very low doses from 0.01 to 0.04 Gray in principle didn’t induce any significant change in cell morphology, growth, membrane permeability, and cause DNA damage. The Mega-V X-ray had a damage threshold between 1.0 and 1.5 Gray. The 0.25 Gray Mega-V-X-ray could promote cell growth and gene transfer, while the 1.5 Gray Mega-V X-ray damaged cells. Conclusion: The very low dose of KV X-rays is safe to cells, while the effects of Mega-V-X-rays are dose-dependent. Mega-V-X-rays with a dose higher than the damage threshold would be harmful, that between 1.0 -1.5 Gray can evoke dual effects, whereas 0.25 Gray MV X-ray is beneficial for both cell growth and gene transfer, thus would be suitable for radiation-enhanced gene transfection.
Exercise training for lung transplant candidates and recipients: a systematic review
Authors: Hume Emily , Ward Lesley , Wilkinson Mick , Manifield James , Clark Stephen , Vogiatzis Ioannis 
Published: October 2020

Exercise intolerance and impaired quality of life (QoL) are characteristic of lung transplant candidates and recipients. This review investigated the effects of exercise training on exercise capacity, QoL and clinical outcomes in pre- and post-operative lung transplant patients.A systematic literature search of PubMed, Nursing and Allied Health, Cochrane (CENTRAL), Scopus and CINAHL databases was conducted from inception until February, 2020. The inclusion criteria were assessment of the impact of exercise training before or after lung transplantation on exercise capacity, QoL or clinical outcomes.21 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 1488 lung transplant candidates and 1108 recipients. Studies consisted of five RCTs, two quasi-experimental and 14 single-arm cohort or pilot studies. Exercise training improved or at least maintained exercise capacity and QoL before and after lung transplantation. The impact on clinical outcomes was less clear but suggested a survival benefit. The quality of evidence ranged from fair to excellent.Exercise training appears to be beneficial for patients before and after lung transplantation; however, the evidence for direct causation is limited by the lack of controlled trials. Well-designed RCTs are needed, as well as further research into the effect of exercise training on important post-transplant clinical outcomes, such as time to discharge, rejection, infection, survival and re-hospitalisation.
The effects of lung volume reduction treatment on diffusing capacity and gas exchange
Authors: van Dijk Marlies , Klooster Karin , Ten Hacken Nick H.T. , Sciurba Frank , Kerstjens Huib. A.M. , Slebos Dirk-Jan 
Published: October 2020

Lung volume reduction (LVR) treatment in patients with severe emphysema has been shown to have a positive effect on hyperinflation, expiratory flow, exercise capacity and quality of life. However, the effects on diffusing capacity of the lungs and gas exchange are less clear.In this review, the possible mechanisms by which LVR treatment can affect diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and arterial gas parameters are discussed, the use ofDLCOin LVR treatment is evaluated and other diagnostic techniques reflecting diffusing capacity and regional ventilation (V′)/perfusion (Q′) mismatch are considered.A systematic review of the literature was performed for studies reporting onDLCOand arterial blood gas parameters before and after LVR surgery or endoscopic LVR with endobronchial valves (EBV).DLCOafter these LVR treatments improved (40 studies, n=1855) and the mean absolute change from baseline in % predictedDLCOwas +5.7% (range −4.6% to +29%), with no real change in blood gas parameters. Improvement inV′ inhomogeneity andV′/Q′ mismatch are plausible explanations for the improvement inDLCOafter LVR treatment.
A New Method to Calculate Water Film Stiffness and Damping for Water Lubricated Bearing with Multiple Axial Grooves
Authors: Ren Guojun 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Water lubricated guide bearings for hydro turbines and pumps are conventionally designed with multiple axial grooves to provide effectively cooling and flushing away abrasives. Due to the variety of groove configuration in terms of number and size, a predication of their performance is difficult. This paper deals with an analytical procedure to investigate groove effect on load capacity, stiffness and damping for this type of bearing where it is considered as an assembly of many inclined slide bearings. The result can be applied to bearings made of hard materials combined with low bearing pressure.
Public attitudes towards screening for kidney cancer: an online survey
Authors: Harvey-Kelly Laragh L. W. , Harrison Hannah , Rossi Sabrina H. , Griffin Simon J. , Stewart Grant D. , Usher-Smith Juliet A. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
Kidney cancer is often asymptomatic, leading to proposals for a screening programme. The views of the public towards introducing a new screening programme for kidney cancer are unknown. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes towards kidney cancer screening and factors influencing intention to attend a future screening programme.

Methods
We conducted an online population-based survey of 1021 adults aged 45–77 years. The main outcome measure was intention to attend four possible screening tests (urine, blood, ultrasound scan, low-dose CT) as well as extended low-dose CT scans within lung cancer screening programmes. We used multivariable regression to examine the association between intention and each screening test.

Results
Most participants stated that they would be ‘very likely’ or ‘likely’ to undergo each of the screening tests [urine test: n = 961 (94.1%); blood test: n = 922 (90.3%); ultrasound: n = 914 (89.5%); low-dose CT: n = 804 (78.8%); lung CT: n = 962 (95.2%)]. Greater intention to attend was associated with higher general cancer worry and less perceived burden/inconvenience about the screening tests. Less worry about the screening test was also associated with higher intention to attend, but only in those with low general cancer worry (cancer worry scale ≤ 5). Compared with intention to take up screening with a urine test, participants were half as likely to report that they intended to undergo blood [OR 0.56 (0.43–0.73)] or ultrasound [OR 0.50 (0.38–0.67)] testing, and half as likely again to report that they intended to take part in a screening programme featuring a low dose CT scan for kidney cancer screening alone [OR 0.19 (0.14–0.27)].

Conclusion
Participants in this study expressed high levels of intention to accept an invitation to screening for kidney cancer, both within a kidney cancer specific screening programme and in conjunction with lung cancer screening. The choice of screening test is likely to influence uptake. Together these findings support on-going research into kidney cancer screening tests and the potential for combining kidney cancer screening with existing or new screening programmes.
Use of digital periodontal data to compare periodontal treatment outcomes in a practice-based research network (PBRN): a proof of concept
Authors: Peikert Stefanie Anna , Mittelhamm Felix , Frisch Eberhard , Vach Kirstin , Ratka-Krüger Petra , Woelber Johan Peter 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
Scientific studies in dentistry are mainly conducted at universities. However, most patients are treated in dental practices, which differ in many ways from treatment at the university. Through the establishment of practice-based research networks, however, it is also possible to examine studies in a real-world setting in dental practices. For this reason the aim of this non-interventional, observational study was to develop and evaluate a digital procedure to access, extract and analyse recorded clinical data in practices to assess periodontal treatment outcomes.

Methods
Participating periodontists were former or active postgraduate students of a master’s course in periodontics in Freiburg who routinely used a digital periodontal diagnostic program. All available stored periodontal patient charts were extracted, anonymized and digitally sent to the study centre.

Results
In this study, data were collected from 6301 patients from 9 different practices. Information such as probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), mobility, furcation and gingival attachment for 153,163 teeth at first visit were successfully transferred to the study centre. During the average observational period of 9.77 years, only 2.8% of all teeth were lost. The number of visits was significantly negatively correlated with BOP (p < 0.0001), and the number of BOP-positive sites was significantly correlated with deeper PDs (p < 0.001).

Conclusion
The presented procedure was able to gather a large amount of practice-based periodontal data, and thus this study may support practice-based research networks. The data indicate that systematic and supportive periodontal therapy is successful on a practice-based level.
Trial registration The study was internationally registered on 4 January 2017 in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS 00011448). https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011448
Cluster analysis of differences in medical economic burden among residents of different economic levels in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Chen Jialong , Yang Liuna , Qian Zhenzhu , Sun Mingwei , Yu Honglin , Ma Xiaolei , Wan Chonghua , Yang Yunbin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
This study compares and analyzes the differences of residents’ medical economic burden in different economic levels, explores the factors for improving the equity of health services in Guangdong, China.

Methods
Cluster analysis was carried out in 20 cities of Guangdong Province by taking 7 key factors on the equity of health services as indicators. Seven key factors were collected from Guangdong Statistical Yearbook 2017 and the Sixth National Population Census. R-type clustering was used to reduce the dimensionality of 7 candidate variables through similarity index. Q-type clustering was used to classify 20 cities in Guangdong Province.

Results
The cluster analysis divided Guangdong Province into three regions with different medical economic burden. The greater the proportion of the elderly over 65 years old, the greater the proportion of health care expenditure to per capita consumer expenditure of residents, and the heavier the medical economic burden. On average, 10.75% of the general budget expenditure of each city in Guangdong Province is spent on health care.

Conclusions
The lower per capita GDP, the higher proportion of the elderly over 65 years old and the lack of medical technicians are risk factors for the heavier medical burden of the residents and the fairness of health services. While increasing the health expenditure, the government needs to further complete the reform of the medical and health system, improve the efficiency of the medical system and curb the rapid rise of absolute health expenditures of individuals, which can reduce the economic burden of residents’ medical care.
Genetic architecture of cardiometabolic risks in people living with HIV
Authors: Cheng Haoxiang , Sewda Anshuman , Marquez-Luna Carla , White Sierra R. , Whitney Bridget M. , Williams-Nguyen Jessica , Nance Robin M. , Lee Won Jun , Kitahata Mari M. , Saag Michael S. , Willig Amanda , Eron Joseph J. , Mathews W. Christopher , Hunt Peter W. , Moore Richard D. , Webel Allison , Mayer Kenneth H. , Delaney Joseph A. , Crane Paul K. , Crane Heidi M. , Hao Ke , Peter Inga 
Published: October 2020

AbstractBackgroundAdvances in antiretroviral therapies have greatly improved the survival of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (PLWH); yet, PLWH have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease than those without HIV. While numerous genetic loci have been linked to cardiometabolic risk in the general population, genetic predictors of the excessive risk in PLWH are largely unknown.MethodsWe screened for common and HIV-specific genetic variants associated with variation in lipid levels in 6284 PLWH (3095 European Americans [EA] and 3189 African Americans [AA]), from the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems cohort. Genetic hits found exclusively in the PLWH cohort were tested for association with other traits. We then assessed the predictive value of a series of polygenic risk scores (PRS) recapitulating the genetic burden for lipid levels, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and myocardial infarction (MI) in EA and AA PLWH.ResultsWe confirmed the impact of previously reported lipid-related susceptibility loci in PLWH. Furthermore, we identified PLWH-specific variants in genes involved in immune cell regulation and previously linked to HIV control, body composition, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Moreover, PLWH at the top of European-based PRS for T2D distribution demonstrated a > 2-fold increased risk of T2D compared to the remaining 95% in EA PLWH but to a much lesser degree in AA. Importantly, while PRS for MI was not predictive of MI risk in AA PLWH, multiethnic PRS significantly improved risk stratification for T2D and MI.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that genetic loci involved in the regulation of the immune system and predisposition to risky behaviors contribute to dyslipidemia in the presence of HIV infection. Moreover, we demonstrate the utility of the European-based and multiethnic PRS for stratification of PLWH at a high risk of cardiometabolic diseases who may benefit from preventive therapies.
Calcinosis in a roe deer fawn (Capreolus capreolus) in northern Germany
Authors: Wagener Matthias Gerhard , Lehmbecker Annika , Bühler Melanie , Wilkens Mirja , Punsmann Teresa , Ganter Martin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
Calcinosis has been reported for a broad range of different animals. Causes for calcinosis include metabolic disorders due to kidney failure, intoxication with calcinogenic plants, or iatrogenic overdose of vitamin D. Especially young animals seem to be very susceptible to developing calcinosis. Currently, however, there is a lack of information on calcinosis in wildlife.

Case presentation
The following case report describes a roe deer fawn admitted to a clinic due to general weakness and myiasis. Plasma levels for creatinine, urea and phosphate were highly elevated, whereas the total calcium level was decreased. Necropsy revealed calcinosis due to calcification in many organs. The reason for calcinosis in this particular case might be kidney failure. Plasma samples from other hunted roe deer fawns also showed high phosphate levels.

Conclusions
Roe deer fawns might be susceptible to calcinosis due to high plasma phosphate, which could be a result of kidney failure or different feed. Further research into calcium and phosphate homeostasis in roe deer is necessary.