bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influences of Tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans on the Interannual Variations of Precipitation in the Early and Late Rainy Seasons in South China
Authors: Yuan Chaoxia , Liu Junqi , Luo Jing-Jia , Guan Zhaoyong 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Because of the seasonal northward migration of the East Asian summer monsoon, the mean-state atmospheric circulation in South China (SC) is remarkably different between the early (May–June) and late (July–August) rainy seasons. This study presents distinct teleconnections between the SC precipitation in the two periods and the sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the tropical oceans. In the early rainy season when the major monsoon rain belt is located in SC, the increased local precipitation is related to the tropical Indian Ocean Basin warming. The basin warming induces an anomalous anticyclone in the South China Sea–western North Pacific (SCS-WNP). The related southwesterly anomalies transport more moisture to SC and lead to more moisture convergence and precipitation there. In the late rainy season when the major monsoon rain belt migrates northward to the Yangtze River valley, the precipitation increase in SC can be caused by the dipole SST anomalies in the tropical Pacific with the cold anomalies near the Maritime Continent and warm ones near the date line. The dipole SST anomalies generate an anomalous cyclone in the WNP with its center more northward than that of the anomalous anticyclone in the early rainy season. The related northeasterly anomalies along its northwestern flank reduce the climatological northward transport of moisture flux out of SC, and increase the moisture convergence and precipitation there. The distinct teleconnections between the SC precipitation and the tropical SSTs in the early and late rainy seasons can be well reproduced in the sensitivity experiments by an atmospheric general circulation model.
Multirotor UAV-Based Platform for the Measurement of Atmospheric Turbulence: Validation and Signature Detection of Tip Vortices of Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Fuertes Fernando Carbajo , Wilhelm Lionel , Porté-Agel Fernando 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThe present study describes the development of a technique for the measurement of atmospheric turbulence and temperature at a point in space based on the integration of a fast-response multihole pressure probe and a thermocouple with an inertial measurement unit on a multirotor UAV-based platform. This allows for an accurate measurement of time series of the three components of the velocity vector and temperature at any point in space in which the UAV can fly within the limitations of its autonomy. The presented technique relies on an accurate correction of the three-component velocity vector measured by the pressure probe on the frame of reference of the UAV—noninertial—with the information provided by the inertial measurement unit. The study includes a validation of the technique against sonic anemometry and the measurement of the signature of tip vortices shed by the blades of a full-scale wind turbine as an example of its potential.
Trends of colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates from 2003 to 2014 in Italy
Authors: Zorzi Manuel , Dal Maso Luigino , Francisci Silvia , Buzzoni Carlotta , Rugge Massimo , Guzzinati Stefano , Mazzoleni G. , Coviello E. , Galasso R. , Sampietro G. , Magoni M. , Ardizzone A. , D‘Argenzio A. , Sutera Sardo A. , Giorno A. , La Greca G. , Ricci P. , Ferretti S. , Palma F. , Serraino D. , Iacovacci S. , Melcarne A. , Puppo A. , Sciacca S. , Russo A.G. , Caruso B. , Cavalieri d’Oro L. , D‘Orsi G. , Fusco M. , Usala M. , Vitale F. , Cusimano R. , Michiara M. , Boschetti L. , Chiaranda G. , Rosso S. , Tumino R. , Mangone L. , Falcini F. , Caiazzo A.L. , Cesaraccio R. , Tisano F. , Fanetti A.C. , Minerba S. , Caldarella A. , Candela G. , Piffer S. , Cania A. , Castelli M. , Pisani M. , Tagliabue G. , Bovo E. , Brustolin A. 
Published: March 2019

Objective: To evaluate the trends of colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality rates from 2003 to 2014 in Italy by age groups and regions. Methods: We used the data of 48 cancer registries from 17 Italian regions to estimate standardized incidence and mortality rates overall and by sex, age groups (<50, 50–69, 70+ years), and geographic area (northwest, northeast, center, south, and islands). Time trends were expressed as annual percent change in rates (APC) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: Incidence rates decreased from 104.3 (2003) to 89.9 × 100,000 (2014) in men and from 64.3 to 58.4 × 100,000 in women. Among men, incidence decreased during 2007–2010 (APC −4.0, 95% CI −6.0 to −1.9) and 2010–2014 (APC −0.7, 95% CI −1.4 to 0.0), while in women it linearly decreased during the whole period (APC −1.1, 95% CI −1.4 to −0.8). Mortality rates showed a linear reduction both in men (APC −0.7, 95% CI −1.0 to −0.3) and women (APC −0.9, 95% CI −1.2 to −0.6) and decreased respectively from 41.1 to 39.2 × 100,000 and from 24.6 to 23.1 × 100,000. In the 50- to 69-year-old range (screening target age), incidence showed a prescreening increase, followed by a peak after screening started, and a decline thereafter. Incidence and mortality rates significantly decreased in all areas but in the south and islands, where incidence increased and mortality remained stable. Conclusions: A renewed commitment by all regional health systems to invest in primary (i.e., lifestyle) and secondary (i.e., screening programs) prevention is of utmost importance.
Impact of preoperative extracorporeal life support on left ventricular assist device outcomes: A comparative study
Authors: Zhigalov Konstantin , Szczechowicz Marcin , Mashhour Ahmed , Mkalaluh Sabreen , Safonov Dmitrii , Enginoev Soslan , Easo Jerry , Ennker Juergen , Eichstaedt Harald C , Weymann Alexander 
Published: March 2019

Background: To investigate whether preoperative short-term extracorporeal life support therapy in patients undergoing continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation has an impact on the outcome regarding survival and adverse events. Methods: Between January 2011 and May 2018, 100 consecutive patients received HeartMate II, HeartWare, or HeartMate III for end-stage heart failure. Mean age was 64.2 ± 10.3 years. Three patient groups were identified: without preoperative extracorporeal life support (non-extracorporeal life support group, n = 80), with preoperative extracorporeal life support due to postcardiotomy shock after conventional cardiac surgery (postcardiotomy shock group, n = 9), and with preoperative extracorporeal life support without previous surgery (non-postcardiotomy shock group, n = 11). The primary endpoint was overall survival after device implantation. Secondary endpoints were adverse events during the follow-up period. Results: Survival was significantly different between the groups (p < 0.05): 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year survival rates were 85%, 68%, and 61% for non-extracorporeal life support group; 44%, 22%, and 22% for postcardiotomy shock group; and 45%, 27%, and 24% for non-postcardiotomy shock group, respectively. Furthermore, in both extracorporeal life support groups (postcardiotomy shock and non-postcardiotomy shock), there were a higher incidence (p < 0.05) of postoperative right heart failure (30% vs 66.7% vs 54.5%), acute renal failure requiring dialysis (20% vs 77.8% vs 54.5%), and respiratory failure (31.3% vs 88.9% vs 81.8%). Conclusion: Continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation with prior extracorporeal life support appears to have a worse outcome regarding survival, right heart failure, renal and respiratory dysfunction (p < 0.05). Future studies have to be done to evaluate the outcome after extracorporeal life support bridge pre-left ventricular assist device, especially as ultima ratio in postcardiotomy shock patients.
A Model of Mental Health Care Involving Trained Lay Health Workers for Treatment of Major Mental Disorders Among Youth in a Conflict-Ridden, Low-Middle Income Environment: Part I Adaptation and Implementation
Authors: Malla Ashok , Margoob Mushtaq , Iyer Srividya , Joober Ridha , Lal Shalini , Thara Rangawsamy , Mushtaq Huda , Mansouri Bilal Issaoui 
Published: March 2019

Objectives: In low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), major mental disorders often remain untreated because of barriers related to access and resources. In rural areas and in conflict-ridden regions, the problem can be exacerbated by increased rates of mental illness and by reduced access to care. This paper describes a project designed to provide mental health services for major mental disorders among youth using a low-cost model in a rural district of the troubled Kashmir valley. Methods: We describe the geographic and political context, the guiding principles and adaptation of the service model (through partnership with a voluntary organization and use of technology), and the implementation of the model using Theory of Change framework. The core of the intervention was to train a pool of lay health workers (LHWs) to provide mental health services to young (aged 14-30 years) people with major mental disorders in their own communities, supported by clinical professionals. Results: Despite political turmoil and major floods, 40 (male and female) LHWs were trained. The LHWs efficiently engaged in case identification, basic interventions, and data collection on outcomes. Several different stakeholders were engaged in activities relevant to the objectives of the project; however, the use of technologies was moderated by several challenges, including access to internet services and patient preference for personal contact. Conclusions: This service model is applicable in an environment where protracted political and armed conflict, low resources, and geographical isolation make exclusive reliance on scarce professional services impractical.
Iliac artery deformation during EVAR
Authors: Koutouzi Giasemi , Pfister Marcus , Breininger Katharina , Hellström Mikael , Roos Håkan , Falkenberg Mårten 
Published: March 2019

Objectives To quantify the deformation of the common iliac artery caused by stiff guide wires and delivery systems during abdominal endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Methods Twenty-two patients treated with abdominal EVAR were included. The following three image data-sets were acquired for each patient: (1) a preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA), (2) an intraoperative contrast-enhanced cone beam CT (CBCT) obtained after the main trunk of the bifurcated stent graft was released and both iliac limbs were engaged with stiff guide wires, and (3) the first postoperative CTA. These data-sets were merged and compared in an image analysis work station. The length and the tortuosity index of the common iliac artery, the Euclidian displacement of the aortic and the iliac bifurcations, and the optimal C-arm angulation for projection of the iliac bifurcation were computed. Results The common iliac artery was on average 6.4 mm shorter ( p < 0.001) and tortuosity index was lower ( p = 0.003) in the intraoperative images compared to preoperative. Some of the foreshortening was reversed postoperatively, remaining mean length difference was 2.9 mm ( p = 0.007) compared to preoperative. Intraoperatively, the aortic bifurcation was mostly displaced in a cranial direction (100%) and the iliac bifurcation in a ventral direction (93%). The optimal lateral C-arm angulation for projection of the iliac bifurcation changed. Anterior contralateral angle increased from median 42° (IQR, 27–63) in the preoperative CTA to 62 (49–74) in the intraoperative CBCT ( p = 0.02). Optimal cranio-caudal angulation did not change. Conclusion Stiff guide wires and delivery systems cause significant deformation of the common iliac arteries during EVAR. The aortic bifurcation is more cranial, the common iliac arteries are shorter, and optimal C-arm angulation is more contralateral oblique when the iliac limbs are to be deployed compared to baseline measurements from preoperative CTA. This affects image fusion accuracy and stent graft selection.
Long-term results of the heparin-bonded Viabahn stent graft in femoropopliteal TASC C and D lesions with a covered stent length of minimum 25 cm
Authors: Uhl C , Dadras A , Reichmann F , Betz T , Zorger N , Toepel I , Steinbauer M 
Published: March 2019

Background Heparin-bonded covered stent grafts (Viabahn) are used to treat femoropopliteal long-segment arteriosclerotic lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of Viabahn grafts with a covered stent length of minimum 25 cm. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients receiving a heparin-bonded stent graft in our clinic who met the length criteria between July 2010 and March 2018. Primary endpoints were patency rates, limb salvage and survival after five years. Secondary endpoint was the 30-day outcome including early complications. Results A total of 62 patients (45 male, median age 70.5 years) were included. The median arteriosclerotic lesion length was 25 cm (22.0–41.3 cm), the minimum covered stent length was 25 cm (25–46 cm). All lesions were TASC C and D lesions. The 30-day mortality was 0%, an early stent graft occlusion occurred in 8.1%. A major amputation was performed in 1.6%. Primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, limb salvage and survival were 38.5%, 45.7%, 52.4%, 92.8% and 68.9% after five years. Distal stent graft end below the femoral condyles and critical limb ischemia was associated with a significant decreased survival. The diameter of the stent had no influence on the outcome. Conclusion The Viabahn stent graft for long segment arteriosclerotic lesions is a feasible treatment with adequate long-term results.
Comprehensive assessment of disability post-stroke using the newly developed miFUNCTION scale
Authors: Zerna Charlotte , Burley Tyler , Green Theresa L , Dukelow Sean P , Demchuk Andrew M , Hill Michael D 
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is the most widely used primary outcome measure in acute stroke trials. However, substantial interobserver variability impairs outcome assessment as well as reduces power of clinical trials. Guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, we developed a comprehensive, hierarchical assessment tool (miFUNCTION) to address the shortcomings of the modified Rankin Scale and deliver a more thorough understanding of disability following stroke. Methods The initial construct validity of miFUNCTION was established in a pilot study of patients at an outpatient stroke prevention clinic that had been diagnosed with stroke within 60 days. To further assess criterion validity, miFUNCTION was compared against the modified Rankin Scale and other outcome measures within the Endovascular Treatment for Small Core and Anterior Circulation Proximal Occlusion With Emphasis on Minimizing CT to Recanalization Times (ESCAPE) trial. Logistic regression analysis with miFUNCTION as an outcome was used to demonstrate the beneficial effect of endovascular treatment. Results The pilot study showed moderate inter-observer agreement (k = 0.585, p < 0.005) but near perfect correlation between miFUNCTION and modified Rankin Scale (ρ = 0.821, p < 0.05). The correlation of miFUNCTION and modified Rankin Scale was near perfect again in the ESCAPE trial (ρ = 0.944). Effect size of the multivariable models using modified Rankin Scale (adjusted odds ratio: 3.45, 95% confidence interval: 2.05–5.78) and miFUNCTION (adjusted odds ratio: 3.32, 95% confidence interval: 1.99–5.55) as an outcome measure for the ESCAPE trial patients was similar. Conclusions miFUNCTION is strongly associated with the degree of disability following stroke both in an outpatient setting and a clinical trial. Further work remains to assess sensitivity to change and to improve the inter-observer reliability of the scale.
Asian Sand Dust Regulates IL-32 Production in Airway Epithelial Cells: Inhibitory Effect of Glucocorticoids
Authors: Shin Jae-Min , Kim Hwee-Jin , Park Joo-Hoo , Hwang You Jin , Lee Heung-Man 
Published: March 2019

PurposeEpidemiologic studies have reported that Asian sand dust (ASD) is associated with chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system. Glucocorticoids (GCs) have potent anti-inflammatory properties. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of GCs on ASD-induced interleukin-32 (IL-32) expression and to identify the underlying signaling pathways in airway epithelial cells.MethodsA 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to evaluate cytotoxicity in A549 and human primary nasal epithelial cells. Expression levels of IL-32 messenger RNA and protein were measured by Western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction, ELISA, and immunofluorescence staining. Signaling pathways were analyzed using specific inhibitors of Akt, MAPK, or NF- κB. The effects of GCs on the expression of ASD-induced IL-32 were confirmed with ex vivo organ cultures of the nasal interior turbinate.ResultsASD (0–400 ng/mL) had no significant cytotoxic effects in A549 cells and human primary nasal epithelial cells. Expression levels of IL-32 were dose-dependently upregulated by ASD treatment in A549 cells. ASD induced phosphorylation of Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB, whereas GCs and specific inhibitors of Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB downregulated these activations and the expression of IL-32. These findings were further confirmed in human primary nasal epithelial cells and ex vivo organ cultures of the nasal interior turbinate.ConclusionsGCs have an inhibitory effect on ASD-induced IL-32 expression via the Akt, MAPK, and NF- κB signaling pathways in airway epithelial cells.
Vegetarian or gluten‐free diets in patients with inflammatory bowel disease are associated with lower psychological well‐being and a different gut microbiota, but no beneficial effects on the course of the disease
Authors: Schreiner Philipp , Yilmaz Bahtiyar , Rossel Jean-Benoît , Franc Yannick , Misselwitz Benjamin , Scharl Michael , Zeitz Jonas , Frei Pascal , Greuter Thomas , Vavricka Stephan R , Pittet Valérie , Siebenhüner Alexander , Juillerat Pascal , von Känel Roland , Macpherson Andrew J , Rogler Gerhard , Biedermann Luc ,   Swiss IBD Cohort Study Group
Published: March 2019

BackgroundMany inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients follow a restrictive diet due to perceived positive effects on their symptoms. We assessed the prevalence of vegetarian (VD) and gluten‐free diets (GFDs) in IBD patients, the reasons for following such a diet, and whether nutrition has an impact on disease activity and microbiota composition.MethodsWe included 1254 patients from the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort Study with prospective acquisition of clinical data and psychosocial, disease‐related and lifestyle factors between 2006 and 2015. Dietary habits were assessed through a self‐report questionnaire. In 92 patients, we analysed intestinal mucosa‐associated microbial composition using high‐throughput sequencing.ResultsOverall, 4.1% (n = 52) of the patients reported following a VD and 4.7% (n = 54) a GFD. No differences regarding disease activity, fistula, hospitalization or surgery rates were observed. Patients on a VD or GFD had significantly higher levels of post‐traumatic stress symptoms. Furthermore, GFD patients had significantly higher anxiety and depression symptom levels. The gut microbiota composition in IBD patients following a VD or GFD was significantly different compared to that of omnivores.ConclusionsAlthough we did not identify a relevant impact of a specific diet on the course of the disease, there was a significant association with lower psychological well‐being in VD and GFD patients.
Expression and clinical significance of the receptors of the EGF family in oral squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Dissanayake Upul 
Published: March 2019

Objective: To examine the immunohistochemical expression of four members of the type 1 growth factor receptor family in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) and to correlate with clinical outcomes. Materials and methods: Sixty OSCCs from a patient cohort in Sri Lanka were included in the study. Five sections from each carcinoma were immunostained with antibodies to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/c-erbB-1, c-erbB-2/HER-2/neu, c-erbB-3/HER-3 and c-erbB-4/HER-4. Two clones were used to stain for c-erbB-2/HER-2/neu. Semiquantitative analysis of immunoreactivity was carried out by scoring the intensity of expression and proportions of positively stained cells. A logistic regression analysis was performed to examine positive expression against overall survival. Results: There was heterogenous expression of the four receptors, positivity ranging from 26% to 60%. Co-expression of all four markers was observed only in 1–3% of the tumours. Both membranous and cytoplasmic expressions were observed, EGFR showing predominantly membranous expression and c-erbB-2 showing only cytoplasmic staining. In logistic regression analysis, none of the growth factor receptors were significantly predictive of overall survival. Conclusion: Type 1 growth factor receptors are highly expressed in oral carcinomas, EGFR being the predominant marker.
National electrocardiographic mapping by telemedicine for diagnosis and prevention of cardiological pathologies in Paraguay
Authors: Galván Pedro , Rivas Ronald , Portillo Juan , Mazzoleni Julio , Hilario Enrique , Ortellado José 
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Telemedicine tools offer multiple advantages to achieve an epidemiological screening of communities in rural settings countrywide. However, evidence on the cardiological pathology surveillance in these communities is limited. The feasibility of telemedicine as an electrocardiographic (EKG) mapping tool for the diagnosis and prevention of cardiological pathologies in Paraguay was investigated. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted in 60 telediagnostic centers countrywide in Paraguay to evaluate the feasibility of telemedicine as an EKG mapping tool for the diagnosis and prevention of cardiological pathologies over a period of 5 years from 2014 to 2018. The adherence rate was determined comparing yearly scheduled visits versus fulfilled visits at the telemedicine platform. Results: During the study, 246,217 remote EKG diagnoses were performed in 60 hospitals using telemedicine. The patients were 19.4% children/adolescents and 80.6% adults. The results of EKG tests in the children/adolescent group were 79.4% normal and 20.6% abnormal. The most frequent abnormal heart rhythms observed were sinusal bradicardia (10.6%), sinusal tachycardia (3.2%), and unspecified arrhythmia (2.8%). In the adult group, the results were 66.3% normal and 33.7% abnormal. The most frequent abnormal heart rhythms in this group were sinusal bradicardia (11.2%), blockade of the right branch (4.8%), and left ventricular hypertrophy (4.7%). The most frequent cardiovascular risk factors observed were the association of hypertension and obesity (40%), hypertension and diabetes (20%), and hypertension and dyslipidemia (19%). During the test period (2014–2018), the average rate of patient adherence to the prevention program was 2.26 for each 1000 diagnosis. Conclusion: These results demonstrate the feasibility of telemedicine as an EKG mapping tool for the diagnosis and prevention of cardiological pathologies in low-resource countries, thus enhancing cardiovascular disease surveillance and optimizing human and financial resources.