bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measuring density and Young’s modulus of a log through the vibration test without measuring its weight
Authors: Kubojima Yoshitaka , Sonoda Satomi , Kato Hideo 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis study examines a simple estimation method for the measurement of the mass of an on-site log through a vibration test. In this method, rather than the log itself, a cut end portion is weighed. For this purpose, the vibration method with additional mass (VAM) was applied to Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis Carr.) circular truncated cones (model log) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica D. Don) logs. Longitudinal vibration tests were performed on the circular truncated cones with/without an additional mass. Furthermore, the cut end portions of the circular truncated cones and logs were used as the virtual additional mass in the VAM. From the results of the vibration test using specimens with/without the concentrated mass, it is possible to estimate the mass of a circular truncated cone with 10% error by the VAM. The cut end portion of a circular truncated cone could be used as the virtual mass in the VAM. From the experimental and theoretical results, to maintain high estimation accuracy, the specimen length must not be too short as shown in our previous study for a specimen with constant cross-sectional shape. The cut end portion of the logs could be used for the virtual mass of the VAM.
Effects of short-term exposure to ambient airborne pollutants on COPD-related mortality among the elderly residents of Chengdu city in Southwest China
Authors: Chen Jianyu , Shi Chunli , Li Yang , Ni Hongzhen , Zeng Jie , Lu Rong , Zhang Li 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has become a severe global burden in terms of both health and the economy. Few studies, however, have thoroughly assessed the influence of air pollution on COPD-related mortality among elderly people in developing areas in the hinterland of southwestern China. This study is the first to examine the association between short-term exposure to ambient airborne pollutants and COPD-related mortality among elderly people in the central Sichuan Basin of southwestern China.

Methods
Data on COPD-related mortality among elderly people aged 60 and older were obtained from the Population Death Information Registration and Management System (PDIRMS). Data on airborne pollutants comprised of particulate matter < 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3) were derived from 23 municipal environmental monitoring sites. Data on weather conditions, including daily mean temperature and relative humidity, were obtained from the Chengdu Meteorological Bureau. All data were collected from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2018. A quasi-Poisson general additive model (GAM) was utilized to assess the effects of short-term exposure to airborne pollutants on COPD-related mortality among elderly people.

Results
A total of 61,058 COPD-related deaths of people aged 60 and older were obtained. Controlling the influences of daily temperature and relative humidity, interquartile range (IQR) concentration increases of PM2.5 (43 μg/m3), SO2 (8 μg/m3), NO2 (18 μg/m3), CO (0.4 mg/m3), and O3 (78 μg/m3) were associated with 2.7% (95% CI 1.0–4.4%), 4.3% (95% CI 2.1–6.4%), 3.6% (95% CI 1.7–5.6%), 2.7% (95% CI 0.6–4.8%), and 7.4% (95% CI 3.6–11.3%) increases in COPD-related mortality in people aged 60 and older, respectively. The exposure-response curves between each pollutant and the log-relative risk of COPD-related mortality exhibited linear relationships. Statistically significant differences in the associations between pollutants and COPD-related mortality were not observed among sociodemographic factors including age, gender, and marital status. The effects of O3 remained steady after adjusting for PM2.5, SO2, NO2, and CO each time in the two-pollutant models.

Conclusions
Increased concentrations of ambient airborne pollutants composed of PM2.5, SO2, NO2, O3, and CO were significantly and positively associated with COPD-related mortality in the central Sichuan Basin, which is located in the hinterland of southwestern China. The adverse effects of O3 were stable, a finding that should receive more attention.
Effect of professional certification on employees’ return-to-work rate after occupational injuries in Korea: focusing on vulnerable groups
Authors: Bae Suk Won 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
One effective way to improve return-to-work (RTW) performance may be to convince the employer that the worker has the necessary skills. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of having a professional certification among workers injured in occupational injuries on their return to work.

Methods
The Panel Study of Workers’ Compensation Insurance (PSWCI) targets workers who completed medical care in 2012 after an occupational injury. The study population (n = 2000) was stratified by gender, age, region, disability grade, and rehabilitation service use. A total of 1458 workers were finally selected for this study.
The effect of having a certification on RTW status was calculated with an odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals using binomial and multinomial logistic regression analyses. In the binomial logistic regression analysis, the RTW group was made up as a combination of the return to original work and the reemployment groups.

Results
The ORs of RTW among those with a certification compared to those without certification were 1.38 (1.16–1.65) in Model 1, 1.25 (1.05–1.50) in Model 2, and 1.22 (1.01–1.47) in Model 3. Among female workers with a certification, the OR of RTW was 4.60 (2.68–7.91), that of return to original work was 3.21 (1.74–5.91), and that of reemployment was 5.85 (3.34–10.27). Among daily workers with a certification, the OR of RTW was 1.32 (1.03–1.69) and that of reemployment was 1.37 (1.07–1.76).

Conclusion
In conclusion, injured workers with a certification generally had a higher RTW rate. In particular, the RTW rate was higher among female workers and daily workers with a certification than among those without.
Interleukin-6 promotes primitive endoderm development in bovine blastocysts
Authors: Wooldridge Lydia K. , Ealy Alan D. 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Interleukin-6 (IL6) was recently identified as an embryotrophic factor in bovine embryos, where it acts primarily to mediate inner cell mass (ICM) size. This work explored whether IL6 affects epiblast (EPI) and primitive endoderm (PE) development, the two embryonic lineages generated from the ICM after its formation. Nuclear markers for EPI (NANOG) and PE (GATA6) were used to differentiate the two cell types.

Results
Increases (P < 0.05) in total ICM cell numbers and PE cell numbers were detected in bovine blastocysts at day 8 and 9 post-fertilization after exposure to 100 ng/ml recombinant bovine IL6. Also, IL6 increased (P < 0.05) the number of undifferentiated ICM cells (cells containing both PE and EPI markers). The effects of IL6 on EPI cell numbers were inconsistent. Studies were also completed to explore the importance of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-dependent signaling in bovine PE cells. Definitive activation of STAT3, a downstream target for JAK2, was observed in PE cells. Also, pharmacological inhibition of JAK2 decreased (P < 0.05) PE cell numbers.

Conclusions
To conclude, IL6 manipulates ICM development after EPI/PE cell fates are established. The PE cells are the target for IL6, where a JAK-dependent signal is used to regulate PE numbers.
Risk factors for unplanned reintubation caused by acute airway compromise after general anesthesia: a case-control study
Authors: Chen Si , Zhang Yuelun , Che Lu , Shen Le , Huang Yuguang 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to identify the risk factors and evaluate the prognosis of unplanned reintubation caused by acute airway compromise (AAC) after general anesthesia.

Methods
This case-control study included surgical patients who underwent unplanned reintubation in the operating room and postanesthesia care unit after general anesthesia between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018. Cases due to AAC were matched 1:4 with randomly selected controls.

Results
A total of 123,068 patients were included, and reintubation due to AAC was performed in 36 patients (approximate incidence 0.03%). Univariable analysis revealed that male sex, age > 65, ASA physical status 3, sepsis, heart disease history, cerebral infarction history, Cormack Lehane grade, surgery type, fresh frozen plasma infusion, increased intubation duration, white blood cell count, and creatinine clearance rate were related to AAC-caused unplanned reintubation. Multivariable analysis revealed that age > 65 (OR = 7.50, 95% CI 2.47–22.81, P < 0.001), ASA physical status 3 (OR = 6.51, 95% CI 1.18–35.92, P = 0.032), head-neck surgery (OR = 4.94, 95% CI 1.33–18.36, P = 0.017) or thoracic surgery (OR = 12.56, 95% CI 2.93–53.90, P < 0.001) and a high fluid load (OR = 3.04, 95% CI 1.16–7.99, P = 0.024) were associated with AAC-caused unplanned reintubation. AAC-caused unplanned reintubation patients had longer postoperative hospital (OR = 5.26, 95% CI 1.57–8.95, P < 0.001) and intensive care unit days (OR = 3.94, 95% CI 1.69–6.18, P < 0.001).

Conclusions
Age > 65, ASA physical status 3, head-neck or thoracic surgery and high fluid load were found to be associated with AAC-caused unplanned reintubation.
Epidemiology and prognostic implications of panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder in patients with coronary artery disease: rationale and design for a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Foldes-Busque Guillaume , Dionne Clermont E. , Turcotte Stéphane , Tully Phillip J. , Tremblay Marie-Andrée , Poirier Paul , Denis Isabelle 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundAnxiety is associated with poorer prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Due to their severity and chronic course, anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder (PD), are of considerable interest and clinical importance in this population. This study has two main objectives: (1) to estimate the prevalence and incidence of GAD and PD in patients with CAD over a 2-year period and (2) to prospectively assess the association between PD or GAD and adverse cardiac events, treatment adherence, CAD-related health behaviors, quality of life and psychological distress.Design/MethodThis is a longitudinal cohort study in which 3610 participants will be recruited following a CAD-related revascularization procedure. They will complete an interview and questionnaires at 5 time points over a 2-year period (baseline and follow-ups after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months). The presence of PD or GAD, adherence to recommended treatments, health behaviors, quality of life and psychological distress will be assessed at each time point. Data regarding mortality and adverse cardiac events will be collected with a combination of interviews and review of medical files.DiscussionThis study will provide essential information on the prevalence and incidence of anxiety disorders in patients with CAD and on the consequences of these comorbidities. Such data is necessary in order to develop clear clinical recommendations for the management of PD and GAD in patients with CAD. This will help improve the prognosis of patients suffering from both conditions.
The association between T wave inversion in leads with ST-elevation and patency of the infarct-related artery
Authors: Ranjbar Abdolmohammad , Sohrabi Bahram , Sadat-Ebrahimi Seyyed-Reza , Ghaffari Samad , Kazemi Babak , Aslanabadi Naser , Seyvani Babak , Hajizadeh Reza 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Up to over half of the patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are reported to undergo spontaneous reperfusion without therapeutic interventions. Our objective was to evaluate the applicability of T wave inversion in electrocardiography (ECG) of patients with STEMI as an indicator of early spontaneous reperfusion.

Methods
In this prospective study, patients with STEMI admitted to a tertiary referral hospital were studied over a 3-year period. ECG was obtained at the time of admission and patients underwent a PPCI. The association between early T wave inversion and patency of the infarct-related artery was investigated in both anterior and non-anterior STEMI.

Results
Overall, 1025 patients were included in the study. Anterior STEMI was seen in 592 patients (57.7%) and non-anterior STEMI in 433 patients (42.2%). Among those with anterior STEMI, 62 patients (10.4%) had inverted T and 530 (89.6%) had positive T waves. In patients with anterior STEMI and inverted T waves, a significantly higher TIMI flow was detected (p value = 0.001); however, this relationship was not seen in non-anterior STEMI.

Conclusion
In on-admission ECG of patients with anterior STEMI, concomitant inverted T wave in leads with ST elevation could be a proper marker of spontaneous reperfusion of infarct related artery.
Understanding participation in European cohort studies of preterm children: the views of parents, healthcare professionals and researchers
Authors:   on behalf of RECAP Preterm-WP6 QS Work Group, Marques Sandra C. S. , Doetsch Julia , Abate Georgia , Brødsgaard Anne , Colombo Grazia , Cuttini Marina , Pedersen Pernille , Barros Henrique 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Retention of participants in cohort studies is a major challenge. A better understanding of all elements involved in participation and attrition phenomena in particular settings is needed to develop effective retention strategies. The study aimed to achieve an in-depth understanding of participant retention in longitudinal cohorts focusing on participants’ and researcher’s perspectives, across three diverse socio-geographic and cultural settings.

Methods
This study used a triangulation of multi-situated methods to collect data on cohort studies of children born with less than 32 weeks of gestation in Denmark, Italy and Portugal. It included focus groups and individual semi-driven interviewing with involved key actors (i.e. parents, staff, healthcare professionals, researchers) and a collaborative visual methodology. A purposive sample of 48 key actors (n = 13 in Denmark; n = 13 in Italy; n = 22 in Portugal) was collected. A triangulation of phenomenological thematic analysis with discourse analysis was applied. Cross-contextual and context-specific situational elements involved in participation and attrition phenomena in these child cohorts were identified at various levels and stages.

Results
Main findings included: situational challenges affecting potential and range of possibilities for implementation strategies (geopolitical environment, societal changes, research funding models); situational elements related to particular strategies acting as deterrents (postal questionnaires) and facilitators (multiple flexible strategies, reminders, regular interaction); main motivations to enrol and participate (altruism/solidarity and gratitude/sense of duty to reciprocate); main motivational deterrents to participate to follow-up waves (lack of bonding, insufficient feedback); entanglement of clinical and research follow-up as facilitator and deterrent.

Conclusions
The multi-situated approach used, addressing the interplay of the lived experience of individuals, was of most value to understand participation variability under different implemented strategies in-context. Cross-contextual and context-specific situational elements that have been influential factors towards participation and attrition in the cohorts were identified.
Active ageing – perspectives on health, participation, and security among older adults in northeastern Thailand – a qualitative study
Authors: Wongsala Manothai , Anbäcken Els-Marie , Rosendahl Sirpa 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Health, participation, and security are the basic pillars of active ageing suggested by the WHO. The concept is used by professionals but requires exploration from the perspectives of older people themselves. This study aims to explore how older adults experience and describe health, participation, and security.

Methods
A qualitative research approach was used based on open-ended interviews with 20 older Thai adults aged 60–92 years. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results
The results showed perspectives related to experiences of daily life and local culture. Health while ageing, was described as the absence of barriers to continued daily living, combined with a peaceful and adaptive mindset. Participation was described as maintaining social networks and being a formal volunteer, with an emphasis on the “making of merits”, of meaningful activities and being respected. Security was described as manageable living conditions and managing to finalize life well by balancing dependency and independency in relation to children to sustain the traditional value of gratitude between generations.

Conclusions
These understandings will support healthy policy planning by providing resources and activities that relate to older Thai adults’ perspectives of health, participation and security and ultimately contribute to a better quality of life.
Proposition of a corrected measure of the Lawton instrumental activities of daily living score
Authors:   the MEMORA group, Dufournet Marine , Moutet Claire , Achi Sarah , Delphin-Combe Floriane , Krolak-Salmon Pierre , Dauphinot Virginie 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
We aimed to propose a correction of the Lawton instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) score to take into account the possibility to have never done some activities, and measured its agreement and reliability with the usual IADL score.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in outpatients attending French memory clinics between 2014 and 2017. Lawton IADL, cognitive performance, diagnosis, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and sociodemographics characteristics were collected. A corrected IADL was calculated and its agreement with the usual IADL was assessed.

Results
The study included of 2391 patients (79.9 years old, 61.7% female). Based on the usual IADL, 36.9% of patients had never carried out at least one of the activities. This proportion reached 68.8% for men and 17.7% for women. Women had a mean IADL higher than men: 4.72 vs 3.49, this difference decreased when considering the corrected IADL: 4.82 vs 4.26 respectively. Based on Bland-Altman method, 93.5% of observations lied within the limits agreement. The ICC between the 2 scores was 0.98. The relationships between patients’ characteristics and the IADL scores were similar, regardless the usual or corrected version.

Conclusions
This corrected IADL score had an excellent degree of agreement with the usual version based the ICC. This simple correction could benefit both for the clinical practice by providing a more accurate description of the real clinical state of the patients allowing to manage them more precisely, and for research involving the evaluation of the functional abilities of patients.
A network-based model to explore the role of testing in the epidemiological control of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cui Yapeng , Ni Shunjiang , Shen Shifei 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundTesting is one of the most effective means to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is an upper bound on daily testing volume because of limited healthcare staff and working hours, as well as different testing methods, such as random testing and contact-tracking testing. In this study, a network-based epidemic transmission model combined with a testing mechanism was proposed to study the role of testing in epidemic control. The aim of this study was to determine how testing affects the spread of epidemics and the daily testing volume needed to control infectious diseases.MethodsWe simulated the epidemic spread process on complex networks and introduced testing preferences to describe different testing strategies. Different networks were generated to represent social contact between individuals. An extended susceptible-exposed-infected-recovered (SEIR) epidemic model was adopted to simulate the spread of epidemics in these networks. The model establishes a testing preference of between 0 and 1; the larger the testing preference, the higher the testing priority for people in close contact with confirmed cases.ResultsThe numerical simulations revealed that the higher the priority for testing individuals in close contact with confirmed cases, the smaller the infection scale. In addition, the infection peak decreased with an increase in daily testing volume and increased as the testing start time was delayed. We also discovered that when testing and other measures were adopted, the daily testing volume required to keep the infection scale below 5% was reduced by more than 40% even if other measures only reduced individuals’ infection probability by 10%. The proposed model was validated using COVID-19 testing data.ConclusionsAlthough testing could effectively inhibit the spread of infectious diseases and epidemics, our results indicated that it requires a huge daily testing volume. Thus, it is highly recommended that testing be adopted in combination with measures such as wearing masks and social distancing to better manage infectious diseases. Our research contributes to understanding the role of testing in epidemic control and provides useful suggestions for the government and individuals in responding to epidemics.