bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting the Inland and Orographic Enhancement of Sea-Effect Snowfall in the Hokuriku Region of Japan
Authors: Veals Peter G. , Steenburgh W. James , Nakai Sento , Yamaguchi Satoru 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThe Hokuriku region along the west coast of the Japanese island of Honshu receives exceptionally heavy snowfall accumulations, exceeding 500 cm from December to February near sea level and 1300 cm at high elevation sites, much of which is produced by sea-effect systems. Though the climatological enhancement of snowfall is large, the lowland–upland snowfall distribution within individual storms is highly variable, presenting a challenge for weather forecasting and climate projections. Utilizing data from a C-band surveillance radar, the ERA5 reanalysis, and surface precipitation observations, we examine factors affecting the inland and orographic enhancement during sea-effect periods in the Hokuriku region during nine winters (December–February) from December 2007 to February 2016. The distribution and intensity of precipitation exhibits strong dependence on flow direction due to three-dimensional terrain effects. For a given flow direction, higher values of boundary layer wind speed and sea-induced CAPE favor higher precipitation rates, a maximum displaced farther inland and higher in elevation, and a larger ratio of upland to lowland precipitation. These characteristics are also well represented by the nondimensional mountain height H^, with H^&lt;1 associated with a precipitation maximum over the high elevations and a larger ratio of upland to lowland precipitation, and H^&gt;1 having the opposite effect. Nevertheless, even in high enhancement periods, precipitation rates decline as one moves inland from the first major mountain barrier, even over high terrain. These results highlight how the interplay between sea-effect and orographic processes modulates the distribution and intensity of precipitation in an area of complex and formidable topography.
Basal astrocyte and microglia activation in the central nervous system of Familial Hemiplegic Migraine Type I mice
Authors: Magni Giulia , Boccazzi Marta , Bodini Antonella , Abbracchio Maria P , van den Maagdenberg Arn MJM , Ceruti Stefania 
Published: July 2019

Background Gain-of-function missense mutations in the α1A subunit of neuronal CaV2.1 channels, which define Familial Hemiplegic Migraine Type 1 (FHM1), result in enhanced cortical glutamatergic transmission and a higher susceptibility to cortical spreading depolarization. It is now well established that neurons signal to surrounding glial cells, namely astrocytes and microglia, in the central nervous system, which in turn become activated and in pathological conditions can sustain neuroinflammation. We and others previously demonstrated an increased activation of pro-algogenic pathways, paralleled by augmented macrophage infiltration, in both isolated trigeminal ganglia and mixed trigeminal ganglion neuron-satellite glial cell cultures of FHM1 mutant mice. Hence, we hypothesize that astrocyte and microglia activation may occur in parallel in the central nervous system. Methods We have evaluated signs of reactive glia in brains from naïve FHM1 mutant mice in comparison with wild type animals by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results Here we show for the first time signs of reactive astrogliosis and microglia activation in the naïve FHM1 mutant mouse brain. Conclusions Our data reinforce the involvement of glial cells in migraine, and suggest that modulating such activation may represent an innovative approach to reduce pathology.
Epidemiological study of major pelvic fracture in Hong Kong and analysis of predictors for mortality
Authors: Kwong Wing Yan , Yang Marc LC , Wong Oi Fung , Lui Chun Tat , Tsui Kwok Leung 
Published: June 2019

Objectives and Background Pelvic fracture causes significant mortality and morbidities. The purpose of this study is to identify the characteristics of patients with pelvic fracture in Hong Kong and to determine the factors predicting mortality. The result could help to identify high-risk patients who might benefit from more intensive evaluation and intervention. Method: Five hundred and eight patients (age > 12 years old) with pelvic fractures were identified from the trauma registries of four designated trauma centres in Hong Kong from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2012. Patient baseline characteristics and outcomes were analysed. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to identify independent clinical predictors for mortality. Result: Mean age was 45.4 ± 19.2 years, 43.3% were female, mean length of hospital stay was 27.9 ± 42.4 days and mean length of intensive care unit stay was 4.8 ± 6.8 days. Injury severity score was 28.9 ± 18.7, revised trauma score was 7.2 ± 2 and 30-day mortality was 20.9%. Stepwise logistic regression identified patient’s age, presenting systolic blood pressure, initial Glasgow Coma Scale, injuries to the thoracic and abdominal regions, first base excess and the volume of red blood cell transfusion required within the first 6 h to be independent risk factors predicting mortality. Conclusion: Pelvic fracture is associated with significant risk of mortality in major trauma patients. Clinical characteristics obtained during emergency department resuscitation can help in selecting patients for timely aggressive interventions.
Safe neoadjuvant trastuzumab-based treatment in HER2 + inflammatory early breast cancer in a glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient postmenopausal woman: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Cunquero-Tomás Alberto J , Ávila-Andrade Claudio D , Milara Javier , Javier Karla , Iranzo Vega , Camps Carlos 
Published: July 2019

Introduction Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is a basic antioxidant pathway for erythrocytes, being its deficiency the most common gene mutation worldwide. As breast cancer is one of the most frequent tumors, many of these patients may present with G6PD deficiency prior treatment without notice. Case report We present the case of a woman deficient for G6PD with the diagnosis of Stage IIIB (cT4d cN1 cM0) HER2-enriched early breast cancer. Management and outcome The patient underwent neoadjuvance with trastuzumab and anthracycline-free chemotherapy, based on docetaxel (75 mg/m2, 120 mg) and carboplatin (AUC 5, 560 mg). She did not present hemolytic crisis and no blood transfusions were needed. She achieved a good pathologic response and completed one-year adjuvant trastuzumab without incidences. Discussion Although the role of HER2 and trastuzumab in oxidative stress is not yet completely understood, we suggest that trastuzumab may be a suitable agent for treatment in patients with HER2-enriched breast cancer in a non-oxidative chemotherapy scheme, with acceptable responses and no triggering hemolytic crisis.
Microperimetric changes and fixation stability status after half-dose photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Gulkas Samet , Sahin Ozlem 
Published: July 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy on central retinal sensitivity, status of fixation stability, and choroidal thickness in patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy. Methods: In total, 22 eyes of 22 patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy were enrolled, and all the eyes received indocyanine green angiography-guided half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy. Best-corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and retinal sensitivity in the central 10° and status of the fixation stability are assessed by MAIA microperimetry, and optical coherence tomography findings (central macular thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness) were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after the half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy. Results: Subretinal fluid was completely resolved in 9 eyes at 1 month and in 17 eyes at 3 months. There was recurrence in two eyes at 6 months and five of the eyes had a persistent subretinal fluid through all the time points. Best-corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and retinal sensitivity improved significantly 6 months after half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy. Fixation stability did not change in either follow-up visit. Central macular thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased significantly at 6 months of the visits compared to baseline. There was not any systemic and ocular side effect after the treatment. Conclusion: This study shows that there is significant improvement in best-corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and retinal sensitivity after half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy. The status of fixation stability remained unchanged in the eyes with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy after half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy. Furthermore, half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy is also effective in decreasing central macular thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness.
Clinical outcomes and dislocation rates after hip reconstruction using the Bioball system
Authors: Dabis John , Hutt Jonathan R , Ward David , Field Richard , Mitchell Philip A , Sandiford Nemandra Amir 
Published: July 2019

Introduction: Instability accounts for 1/3 of revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) performed in the UK. Removal of well-fixed femoral stems in rTHA is challenging with a risk of blood loss and iatrogenic damage to the femur. The Bioball universal adaptor (BUA), a modular head neck extension adaptor, provides a mechanism for optimisation of femoral offset, leg length and femoral anteversion. This can avoid the need for femoral stem revision in selected cases. The aim of this study is to present the clinical results and rate of instability following revision with this BUA at a minimum of 2 years follow-up. Patients and methods: A review of our prospectively collected database was performed. All patients treated with the Bioball device were included. Clinical and radiologic review were performed pre- and post-surgery. Specific enquiry for instability was made. The Oxford Hip Score (OHS), EuroQol (EQ-5D) score and WOMAC scores were calculated pre-and post-operatively. Complications were recorded. Results: 32 rTHA procedures were performed using the Bioball device between 2013 and 2016. 4 patients did not wish to complete post-operative questionnaires. 2 patients (2/28, 7%) complained of recurrent dislocations following their rTHA procedure. 1 patient complained of instability but no dislocation. The median pre-operative EQ-5D was 0.195 (range −0.07–0.85), OHS was 20 (range 5–43) and WOMAC was 29.8 (range 15.5–52.3). The median EQ-5D was 0.85 (range 0.59–1), OHS was 39 (range 21–48) and WOMAC was 91.1 (range 44.5–99.2) at final follow-up. There were significant improvements in the EQ-5D ( p = 0.0009), OHS ( p = 0.0004) and WOMAC ( p = 0.0001). Conclusion: The BUA is associated with significant functional improvement and relatively low dislocation rates in revision THA. It is a viable option for use in the revision setting.
Genital Angiokeratomas in Adult Men and Women: Prevalence and Predisposing Factors
Authors: Sadowsky Lauren M. , Socik Ava , Burnes Autumn , Rhodes Arthur R. 
Published: July 2019

Introduction: There is a paucity of prevalence data for genital angiokeratomas in adults. The objective of this article is to determine prevalence of genital angiokeratomas in adults as a function of sex, age, and race/ethnicity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 11 months during 2013 and 2014 using a convenience sample of adult men and women consenting to genital examination during melanoma screening and surveillance by a senior dermatologist in an outpatient clinic. The analysis was conducted from April through December 2016. Results: Of 213 white/European American adults examined (127 men and 86 women), genital angiokeratomas were detected in 30.0% (64/213). Presence of at least one genital angiokeratoma was significantly associated with male sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-4.5; P < .001) and age older than 50 years (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.7-6.7; P = .008). Conclusions: Genital angiokeratomas are relatively common in adults of white/European American origin and important to recognize because of their benign nature and occasional confusion with other tumors.
Vibro-acoustic coupling characteristics of orthotropic L-shaped plate–cavity coupling system
Authors: Shi Dongyan , Ren Wenhui , Zhang Hong , Liu Gai , Wang Qingshan 
Published: July 2019

The research object of this paper is the L-shaped plate–cavity coupling system established by a cuboid acoustic cavity with rigid-wall or impedance-wall and L-shaped plate with numerous elastic boundary conditions in view of the Fourier series method. The main research content of this paper is the vibro-acoustic coupling characteristics. In this paper, the displacements admissible functions of the L-shaped plate are generally set as the sum of two cosines’ product and two polynomials. Sound pressure admissible functions of the cuboid acoustic cavity can be considered as the sum of three cosines’ product and six polynomials. The discontinuity of coupling system at all boundaries in the overall solution domain is overcome in this way. Through the energy principle and the Rayleigh-Ritz technology, it can be got that the solving matrix equation of the L-shaped plate-cavity coupling system. Based on verifying the great numerical characteristics of the L-shaped plate–cavity coupling model, they obtained both the frequency analysis and the displacement or sound pressure response analysis under the excitation, including a unit simple harmonic force or a unit monopole source. The advantages of this method are parameterization and versatility. In addition, some new achievements have been shown, based on various materials, boundary conditions, thicknesses, and orthotropic degrees, which may become the foundation for the future research.
Prognostic Role of Admission C-Reactive Protein Level as a Predictor of In-Hospital Mortality in Type-A Acute Aortic Dissection: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hsieh Wan Chin , Henry Brandon Michael , Hsieh Chong Chao , Maruna Pavel , Omara Mohamed , Lindner Jaroslav 
Published: June 2019

Background: Acute aortic dissection (AD) is a lethal vascular disease, accounting for over 90% cases of acute aortic syndrome. Despite advances in understanding associated risk factors, the long-term prognosis for AD patients is still poor. Several prognostic biomarkers have been used for AD as per the IRAD, such as older age (>70 years), onset of chest pain and hypotension, but they are not effective in all patients. Instead, C-reactive protein (CRP) is a consistent inflammatory marker. CRP levels are abnormally increased in AD. However, the prognostic value of serum CRP level in AD remains unclear. Objective: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis (registration no CRD42017056205) to evaluate whether CRP is a biomarker associated with in-hospital mortality in type-A AD. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, SciELO, and EMBASE were searched for papers published from January 2000 to October 2017 for studies on the prognostic role of CRP at admission in type-A AD patients. Outcome data were extracted and pooled hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated. Results: 18 (N = 2875 patients) studies met the inclusion criteria. Elevated CRP level was associated with a significantly increased risk of in-hospital mortality in patients with type-A AD (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06-1.25, p = 0.001). The pooled sensitivity of CRP in type-A AD patients was 77% (95% CI 69%–84%, p < 0.001), and the specificity was 72% (95% CI 66%–78%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Elevated CRP level is significantly associated with increased risks of in-hospital mortality in patients with type-A AD. CRP is a convenient prognostic factor in type-A AD patients.
Gender-specific association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and arterial stiffness in an apparently healthy population undergoing a health examination
Authors: Yi Yihu , Zhou Lingyun , Zuo Shanru , Yin Wenjun , Li Daiyang , Wang Jianglin 
Published: July 2019

Objective Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) value has emerged as a cardiovascular prognostic marker. Although several recent studies suggested NLR was associated with arterial stiffness, it was still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between NLR and arterial stiffness by measuring of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) in an apparently healthy population. Methods This retrospective study enrolled 5612 participants during the health examinations from 1 October 2007 to 30 September 2011. Arterial stiffness was measured by baPWV. NLR was calculated as the ratio of the absolute neutrophil count to the absolute lymphocyte count in peripheral blood. According to the quartiles of NLR, the patients were categorized into four groups in males and females, respectively. Associations between NLR and baPWV were evaluated using partial correlation and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results Both female and male subjects with increased arterial stiffness (baPWV ≥ 1400 cm/s) were likely to be older (females: P < 0.001, males: P < 0.001) and have higher systolic blood pressure (females: P < 0.001, males: P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (females: P < 0.001, males: P < 0.001), fasting plasma glucose (females: P < 0.001, males: P < 0.001), serum total cholesterol (females: P < 0.001, males: P = 0.028), triglyceride (females: P < 0.001, males: P = 0.031), urea nitrogen (females: P < 0.001, males: P < 0.001) than those without increased arterial stiffness. In addition, compared to those without increased arterial stiffness, body mass index ( P < 0.001), waist circumference ( P < 0.001), low-density lipoproteins cholesterol ( P < 0.001), creatinine ( P < 0.001), uric acid ( P < 0.001) and lymphocytes ( P = 0.001) were higher in females with increased arterial stiffness. However, males with increased arterial stiffness had higher NLR value (2.0 ± 0.7 vs. 2.1 ± 0.9, P < 0.001) and neutrophils (4.3 ± 1.4 vs. 4.5 ± 1.5, P < 0.001) than those without increased arterial stiffness, while the difference was not found in females. ANCOVA showed that males with quartile 3 and quartile 4 of NLR had greater levels of baPWV. NLR was correlated to baPWV in males by partial correlation analysis (r = 0.110, P < 0.001), but not in females. In multiple logistic regression analysis, the quartile 4 of NLR was positively associated with increased arterial stiffness in males (OR = 1.43, 95% confidence intervals [CI]=1.12–1.82, P = 0.004), but there was no obvious correlation in females. Conclusions Our findings suggest that there is a gender difference in the relationship between arterial stiffness and NLR. After adjusting for other confounders, the risk of increased arterial stiffness in apparently healthy adult males (rather than females) is independently associated with the highest quartile of NLR.
Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in patients with Marfan syndrome
Authors: Conway Allan Marc , Qato Khalil , Anand Gautam , Mondry Laurie , Giangola Gary , Carroccio Alfio 
Published: July 2019

Objectives Marfan syndrome patients are at risk for aortic degeneration. Repair is traditionally performed with open surgery as this is deemed more durable. Endovascular aneurysm repair remains controversial. We report on the outcomes of Marfan syndrome patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair. Methods The Vascular Quality Initiative registry identified 35,889 patients, including 29 with Marfan syndrome, treated with endovascular aneurysm repair from January 2003 to December 2017. Outcomes were analyzed per the Society for Vascular Surgery reporting standards. Results Median age was 70.0 years (IQR, 57.0–75.0), and 22 (75.9%) were male. Median aneurysm diameter was 5.3 cm (IQR, 4.9–6.3 cm), with an aortic neck length and diameter of 2.0 cm (IQR, 1.6–2.8 cm) and 2.5 cm (IQR, 2.2–2.8 cm), respectively. Twenty-one (72.4%) patients were asymptomatic, seven (24.1%) symptomatic, and one (3.4%) presented with rupture. Ten (34.5%) patients had prior aortic surgery. Six (20.7%) were unfit for open surgical repair. Length of stay was 2.0 days (IQR, 1.0–3.0 days). Percutaneous femoral access was performed in 15 (51.7%) patients with no complications. A type IA endoleak was present in one (3.4%), type IB in one (3.4%), and type II endoleak in two (6.9%) patients. There were no postoperative pulmonary, cardiac, or neurological complications. In-hospital mortality occurred in one (3.4%) patient who presented with a rupture and had been deemed unfit for open repair. A conversion to open repair was required. The patient expired on post-operative day 0. Early clinical success was achieved in 26 (89.7%) patients. Follow-up was available for 15 (51.7%) patients at a median time of 766 days (IQR, 653–937). There were no reinterventions or mortalities. Change in sac diameter was −0.6 cm (IQR, −1.1 to −0.2 cm), with no type I or III endoleaks. Discussion Endovascular aneurysm repair for patients with Marfan syndrome is feasible, and can be performed safely. Mid-term outcomes suggest this technique is durable. More robust long-term follow-up is needed.
Drawing: A novel approach to understanding appearance change in people following treatment for head and neck cancer
Authors: Harding Sam , Bradford John 
Published: July 2019

Objectives: Appearance is a factor within head and neck cancer health-related quality of life measures; however, the issue of self-perceived appearance has received scant attention. Self-portraiture may provide insight into the patient’s perspective, allowing people to provide viewpoints that are not easily accessible. This research investigates the methodology of drawing and responses from patient-completed questionnaires in a head and neck cancer population. Methods: A sample of 30 people at least 3 months post-treatment for head and neck cancer were recruited. Participants completed the Derriford Appearance Scale, University of Washington Quality of Life scale, and two drawings: (1) how they recall themselves pre-treatment and (2) how they see themselves post-treatment. They were asked to discuss the methodology and their experience of it. Results: Correlations with Derriford Appearance Scale, University of Washington Quality of Life scale, and size drawings failed to find relationships between these variables. Post-treatment drawings were significantly smaller than pre-treatment. Qualitative analysis of the drawings found differences between the images. Participants related how drawing gave an opportunity to voice concerns that questionnaires and clinic appointments did not. Conclusion: Drawing can elicit distinctly different information about a person following treatment for head and neck cancer than that provided by health-related quality of life measures. Further research would clarify if clinical opinion matches patients’ drawing.