bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The quality of reports of medical and public health research from Palestinian institutions: a systematic review
Authors: Albarqouni Loai , Abu-Rmeileh Niveen ME , Elessi Khamis , Obeidallah Mohammad , Bjertness Espen , Chalmers Iain 
Published: June 2017

ObjectiveOver the past decade, there has been an increase in reports of health research from Palestine, but no assessment of their quality. We have assessed the quality of reports of Palestinian health research and factors associated with it.DesignThis is a systematic review.Inclusion criteriaWe searched Medline and Scopus for reports of original research relevant to human health or healthcare authored by researchers affiliated with Palestinian institutions and published between January 2000 and August 2015 inclusive.OutcomesWe used international guidelines to assess report quality, classifying as adequate those with ≥50% of items completely addressed.ResultsOf 2383 reports identified, 497 met our inclusion criteria. Just over half (264; 55%) of these were published after 2010. 354 (71%) of first authors were affiliated with Palestinian institutions; 261 (53%) reports had coauthors from outside Palestine. The majority of the reports in our study were inadequately reported (342; 69%), and none had adequately reported all items. Of 439 observational studies, 11 (2.5%) reports provided adequate descriptions of eligibility criteria and selection procedures; 35 (8%) reported efforts to address potential sources of bias; 50 (11.4%) reported the basis for the study sample size; and funding sources were mentioned in 74 reports (17%). Higher reporting quality was associated with international affiliation of the first author (prevalence ratio (PR) 1.6 (95% CI 1.2 to 2.1)), international collaboration (PR 2.9 (95% CI 1.7 to 5.0)), international funding (PR 1.9 (95% CI1.5 to 2.5)), publication after 2005 (PR 3.9 (95% CI 1.8 to 8.5)) and four or more coauthors (PR 1.5 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.1)).ConclusionAlthough the quality of reports of Palestinian research has improved in recent years, it remains well below an acceptable standard. International reporting guidelines should be used to guide research design and improve the quality of reports of research.Trial registration numberThe systematic review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registery (registration number: CRD42015027553).
International comparison of emergency hospital use for infants: data linkage cohort study in Canada and England
Authors: Harron Katie , Gilbert Ruth , Cromwell David , Oddie Sam , Guttmann Astrid , van der Meulen Jan 
Published: June 2017

ObjectivesTo compare emergency hospital use for infants in Ontario (Canada) and England.MethodsWe conducted a population-based data linkage study in infants born ≥34 weeks’ gestation between 2010 and 2013 in Ontario (n=253 930) and England (n=1 361 128). Outcomes within 12 months of postnatal discharge were captured in hospital records. The primary outcome was all-cause unplanned admissions. Secondary outcomes included emergency department (ED) visits, any unplanned hospital contact (either ED or admission) and mortality. Multivariable regression was used to evaluate risk factors for infant admission.ResultsThe percentage of infants with ≥1 unplanned admission was substantially lower in Ontario (7.9% vs 19.6% in England) while the percentage attending ED but not admitted was higher (39.8% vs 29.9% in England). The percentage of infants with any unplanned hospital contact was similar between countries (42.9% in Ontario, 41.6% in England) as was mortality (0.05% in Ontario, 0.06% in England). Infants attending ED were less likely to be admitted in Ontario (7.3% vs 26.2%), but those who were admitted were more likely to stay for ≥1 night (94.0% vs 55.2%). The strongest risk factors for admission were completed weeks of gestation (adjusted OR for 34–36 weeks vs 39+ weeks: 2.44; 95% CI 2.29 to 2.61 in Ontario and 1.66; 95% CI 1.62 to 1.70 in England) and young maternal age.ConclusionsChildren attending ED in England were much more likely to be admitted than those in Ontario. The tendency towards more frequent, shorter admissions in England could be due to more pressure to admit within waiting time targets, or less availability of paediatric expertise in ED. Further evaluations should consider where best to focus resources, including in-hospital, primary care and paediatric care in the community.
Osteopontin predicts clinical outcome in patients after treatment of severe aortic stenosis with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)
Authors: Lutz Matthias , von Ingersleben Nora , Lambers Moritz , Rosenberg Mark , Freitag-Wolf Sandra , Dempfle Astrid , Lutter Georg , Frank Johanne , Bramlage Peter , Frey Norbert , Frank Derk 
Published: June 2017

ObjectiveOsteopontin (OPN) is an extracellular matrix protein that plays an integral role in myocardial remodelling and has previously been shown to be a valuable biomarker in cardiovascular disease. Because of the concentric myocardial hypertrophy associated with severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS), we hypothesised that OPN expression may have a prognostic value in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).MethodsWe prospectively included 217 patients undergoing TAVI between February 2011 and December 2013 with a median follow-up of 349 days. Twenty healthy individuals from the same age range free from structural heart disease served as controls. The primary endpoint for the analysis was survival time.ResultsMedian preprocedural OPN levels (675 ng/mL; IQR 488.5–990.5 ng/mL) were significantly higher in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis compared with healthy controls (386 ng/mL; IQR 324.5–458, p<0.001). Patients with increased OPN values showed at baseline a decreased 6 min walk test performance, increased rates of atrial arrhythmia, and an increased risk of death during follow-up (HR 2.2; 95% CI 1.3 to 3.5 for the comparison of the highest vs lowest OPN quartile). Multiple Cox regression analysis demonstrated that OPN improves the prediction of an adverse prognosis further than N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide.ConclusionsOPN levels at baseline are associated with adverse outcomes in patients with severe, symptomatic AS undergoing TAVI.
Salivary gland ultrasound abnormalities in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: consensual US-SG core items definition and reliability
Authors: Jousse-Joulin Sandrine , Nowak Emmanuel , Cornec Divi , Brown Jackie , Carr Andrew , Carotti Marina , Fisher Benjamin , Fradin Joel , Hocevar Alojzija , Jonsson Malin V , Luciano Nicoletta , Milic Vera , Rout John , Theander Elke , Stel Aaltje , Bootsma Hendrika , Vissink Arjan , Baldini Chiara , Baer Alan , Ng Wan Fai , Bowman Simon , Alavi Zarrin , Saraux Alain , Devauchelle-Pensec Valérie 
Published: June 2017

ObjectivesUltrasonography (US) is sensitive for detecting echostructural abnormalities of the major salivary glands (SGs) in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). Our objectives were to define selected US-SG echostructural abnormalities in pSS, set up a preliminary atlas of these definitions and evaluate the consensual definitions reliability in both static and acquisition US-SG images.MethodsInternational experts in SG US in pSS participated in consensus meetings to select and define echostructural abnormalities in pSS. The US reliability of detecting these abnormalities was assessed using a two-step method. First 12 experts used a web-based standardised form to evaluate 60 static US-SG images. Intra observer and interobserver reliabilities were expressed in κ values. Second, five experts, who participated all throughout the study, evaluated US-SG acquisition interobserver reliability in pSS patients.ResultsParotid glands (PGs) and submandibular glands (SMGs) intra observer US reliability on static images was substantial (κ > 0.60) for the two main reliable items (echogenicity and homogeneity) and for the advised pSS diagnosis. PG inter observer reliability was substantial for homogeneity. SMGs interobserver reliability was moderate for homogeneity (κ = 0.46) and fair for echogenicity (κ = 0.38). On acquisition images, PGs interobserver reliability was substantial (κ = 0.62) for echogenicity and moderate (κ = 0.52) for homogeneity. The advised pSS diagnosis reliability was substantial (κ = 0.66). SMGs interobserver reliability was fair (0.20< κ ≤ 0.40) for echogenicity and homogeneity and either slight or poor for all other US core items.ConclusionThis work identified two most reliable US-SG items (echogenicity and homogeneity) to be used by US-SG trained experts. US-PG interobserver reliability result for echogenicity is in line with diagnosis of pSS.
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniaevaccination at or shortly before weaning under field conditions: a randomised efficacy trial
Authors: Arsenakis I. , Michiels A. , Del Pozo Sacristán R. , Boyen F. , Haesebrouck F. , Maes D. 
Published: June 2017

This study assessed the efficacy of two differentMycoplasma hyopneumoniaevaccination programmes in relation to the time of weaning. Eight hundred and twenty‐eight piglets were randomly divided into three groups: group V1 was vaccinated three days before weaning, group V2 at weaning (21 days of age) and group NV was left non‐vaccinated. Vaccinations were performed using Ingelvac MycoFLEX. After the nursery period, 306 pigs were allocated to fattening unit (F1) and 501 pigs to a second unit (F2). Efficacy was evaluated using performance parameters and pneumonia lesions at slaughter. Statistically significant differences were obtained in F2 where group V1 had a higher average daily weight gain compared to groups V2 and NV for the entire study period (17 and 18 g/day, respectively) and the fattening period (26 and 36 g/day, respectively) (P<0.05). Considering respiratory disease scores for both fattening units, group V1 was the only group where coughing severity did not increase significantly between placement and the end of the fattening period (P>0.05). Between groups, there were no statistically significant differences for the average lung lesion scores (V1=3.44; V2=4.61; NV=4.55, P>0.05) and the prevalence of pneumonia (V1=35.0 per cent; V2=38.0 per cent; NV=41.4 per cent, P>0.05). Overall, vaccination againstM hyopneumoniaebefore weaning provided numerically better performance than vaccination at weaning, but did not reach statistical significance. An influenza outbreak in F1 and the presence of coexisting mixed respiratory infections in both F1 and F2 could have possibly influenced the performance of both vaccinated groups across all measured parameters.
Fracture analysis of outcrop analogues to support modelling of the subseismic domain in carbonate reservoirs, south-central Pyrenees
Authors: Gutmanis Jon , Ardèvol i Oró Lluís , Díez-Canseco Davinia , Chebbihi Lynda , Awdal Abdullah , Cook Alexander 
Published: June 2017

Abstract

The productivity of wells in fractured reservoirs depends, in terms of rate and sustainability, on the heterogeneity and variable connectivity of the open fracture network. Outcrop studies in Cretaceous carbonates from the Catalan Pyrenees illuminate this issue and reveal the degree of uncertainty associated with the interpretation of fracture data from wells and seismic. Three examples are chosen to provide verifiable data, parameters and concepts which can be applied to the workflow of fractured reservoir characterization. We discuss fracture properties and distributions in the subseismic volume, the coupled behaviour between litho-mechanical properties,
in situ
stress and fracturing, and the permeability properties of fault damage zones. The outcrops also highlight some of the difficulties involved in constructing static reservoir models and evaluating fracture interpretations derived from software-based techniques such as surface curvature.
In Situ Vaccination after Accelerated Hypofractionated Radiation and Surgery in a Mesothelioma Mouse Model
Authors: De La Maza Luis , Wu Matthew , Wu Licun , Yun Hana , Zhao Yidan , Cattral Mark , McCart Andrea , Cho BC John , de Perrot Marc 
Published: June 2017

Abstract
Purpose: How best to sequence and integrate immunotherapy into standard of care is currently unknown. Clinical protocols with accelerated nonablative hypofractionated radiation followed by surgery could provide an opportunity to implement immune checkpoint blockade.
Experimental Design: We therefore assessed the impact of nonablative hypofractionated radiation on the immune system in combination with surgery in a mouse mesothelioma model. Blunt surgery (R1 resection) was used to analyze the short-term effect, and radical surgery (R0 resection) was used to analyze the long-term effect of this radiation protocol before surgery.
Results: Nonablative hypofractionated radiation led to a specific immune activation against the tumor associated with significant upregulation of CD8+ T cells, limiting the negative effect of an incomplete resection. The same radiation protocol performed 7 days before radical surgery led to a long-term antitumor immune protection that was primarily driven by CD4+ T cells. Radical surgery alone or with a short course of nonablative radiation completed 24 hours before radical surgery did not provide this vaccination effect. Combining this radiation protocol with CTLA-4 blockade provided better results than radiation alone. The effect of PD-1 or PD-L1 blockade with this radiation protocol was less effective than the combination with CTLA-4 blockade.
Conclusions: A specific activation of the immune system against the tumor contributes to the benefit of accelerated, hypofractionated radiation before surgery. Nonablative hypofractionated radiation combined with surgery provides an opportunity to introduce immune checkpoint blockades in the clinical setting. Clin Cancer Res; 23(18); 5502–13. ©2017 AACR.
‘Aram’ in the Aramaic Inscriptions from Sefire
Authors: Dušek Jan 
Published: June 2017

Over many decades the references to ‘Aram’ in the Aramaic inscription Sefire I A, 5–6 have been interpreted as referring to a geographical location. Various scholars have proposed different solutions for the identification of this region. Nevertheless, a parallel formula, which appears in some Neo-Assyrian adê-texts, sheds new light on the meaning of ‘Aram’ in the Sefire inscription.
Stigma and work discrimination among cancer survivors: A scoping review and recommendations
Authors: Stergiou-Kita Mary , Qie Xueqing , Yau Hau Ki , Lindsay Sally 
Published: June 2017

Background. Stigma and workplace discrimination can hinder employment opportunities for cancer survivors. Purpose. This study explored perceptions of stigma and workplace discrimination for cancer survivors to understand the impact on survivors’ engagement in paid work and to identify strategies to address stigma and workplace discrimination. Method. Using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, we searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL for evidence that intersected three concepts: cancer, stigma, and employment/workplace discrimination. Of the 1,514 articles initially identified, 39 met our inclusion criteria. Findings were charted, collated, and analyzed using content analysis. Findings. Myths regarding cancer (i.e., it is contagious, will always result in death) persist and can create misperceptions regarding survivors’ employability and lead to self-stigmatization. Workplace discrimination may include hiring discrimination, harassment, job reassignment, job loss, and limited career advancement. Strategies to mitigate stigma and workplace discrimination include education, advocacy, and antidiscrimination policies. Implications. Occupational therapists can enhance awareness of workplace concerns and advocate on behalf of cancer survivors.
Survival Outcomes in Patients with T2N0M0 (Stage II) Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx
Authors: Gainor Danielle L. , Marchiano Emily , Bellile Emily , Spector Matthew E. , Taylor Jeremy M. G. , Wolf Gregory T. , Hogikyan Norman D. , Prince Mark E. , Bradford Carol R. , Eisbruch Avraham , Worden Francis , Shuman Andrew G. 
Published: June 2017

ObjectiveEmerging data have demonstrated suboptimal outcomes among patients with stage II larynx cancer. Our objective is to report survival outcomes for T2N0M0 larynx cancer and to determine the cause‐specific survival.Study DesignCase series with planned data collection.SettingTertiary academic center.SubjectsAdults with T2N0M0 squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx treated with curative intent.MethodsA head and neck cancer epidemiology database was queried for eligible subjects from 2003 to 2014. Data were extracted from the electronic medical record and research database, and survival analyses were performed.ResultsThirty‐four patients with previously untreated stage II larynx cancer were identified (median follow‐up 48 months). Patients included 27 males and 7 females with a mean age of 59 years. The majority of tumors arose from the glottis (59%). Of the cohort, 12% were treated with surgery, 65% radiation therapy, and 24% chemoradiation therapy. The estimated 2‐year overall survival was 81%, (95% confidence interval [CI], 59%‐92%), disease‐specific survival was 91% (95% CI, 69%‐98%), and recurrence‐free survival was 84% (95% CI, 65%‐93%). Four of 5 patients with persistent or recurrent disease posttreatment were successfully salvaged with total laryngectomy with 100% locoregional control. There were 11 mortalities (2 disease related, 2 due to metachronous primaries, 3 treatment related, and 4 from other/unknown causes).ConclusionStage II laryngeal cancer has suboptimal survival outcomes. This appears to be a reflection of medical comorbidities, propensity for metachronous primaries, and the sequelae of late treatment effects rather than poor locoregional control.
Effects of the acetabular fracture index and other factors of posterior wall acetabular fracture on functional outcome
Authors: Long Hai-Tao , Deng Zhen-Han , Zou Min , Lin Zhang-Yuan , Zhu Jian-Xi , Zhu Yong 
Published: June 2017

Objective To analyze the effects of the acetabular fracture index (AFI) and other factors on the functional outcome of patients with acetabular fractures involving the posterior wall. Methods Forty-eight patients who underwent surgery in our department were reviewed. According to the AFI, which indicates the percentage of remaining intact posterior acetabular arc, the patients were divided into Group A (AFI ≤ 25%, 11 patients), Group B (25% < AFI ≤ 50%, 23 patients), Group C (50% < AFI ≤ 75%, 7 patients), and Group D (75% < AFI ≤ 100%, 7 patients). The AFI was measured with a computed tomography picture archiving and communication system or calculated with the cosine theorem. A nonparametric test and ordinal regression were used to determine the role of the AFI and other factors on the functional outcome. Perioperative information, including demographic and fracture-related data, reduction quality, physical therapy duration, association with a lower limb fracture and avascular necrosis of the femoral head were prospectively gathered. Results The mean AFIs of A, B, C, and D groups were 14.3%, 35.9%, 59.5%, and 81.2%, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed among the groups for demographic and fracture-related data. A better reduction quality (OR = 4.21, 95%CI 1.42 ∼ 12.43, χ2 = 6.781, P = 0.009) and a larger value of AFI (OR = 2.56, 95%CI 1.18 ∼ 5.55, χ2 = 5.648, P = 0.017) result in a higher functional score. The functional outcome of a physical therapy duration of more than 12 months (OR = 0.15, 95%CI 0.02 ∼ 0.90, χ2 = 4.324, P = 0.038) was better than that of less than 12 months. Lower limb fracture (OR = 0.13, 95%CI 0.02 ∼ 0.74, χ2 = 5.235, P = 0.022) and avascular necrosis of femoral head (OR = 0.02, 95%CI 0.00 ∼ 0.87, χ2 = 4.127, P = 0.042) were found to correlate with a lower functional score. Conclusion With a greater of AFI, the functional outcome score would be better. Other factors, including reduction quality, physical therapy duration, association with a lower limb fracture, and avascular necrosis of the femoral head, most likely also affect hip functional recovery.
Persistent visual perceptual disorders after stroke: Associated factors
Authors: Prince Martin , Lamontagne Véronique , Beauchemin Joanie , Casavant Stéphanie , Jolicoeur Dominique , Mercier Louisette , Desrosiers Johanne 
Published: June 2017

Introduction Visual perceptual disorders are common after stroke and often affect functional independence. Little is known about biopsychosocial variables related to these disorders. This study aimed to identify which variables best explain the persistence of visual perceptual disorders in seniors with stroke. Method Visual perception of 195 people aged 65 and over with stroke was assessed using the Motor-free Visual Perceptual Test – Vertical version, three weeks after returning home as well as three and six months later. Biopsychosocial and personal variables were also assessed three weeks after returning home. Correlation analyses were followed by bivariate linear regression analyses. Results Seventy participants still had visual perceptual disorders six months later. Many variables measured at the first test were found to be associated with visual perception at the six-month follow-up. Those best explaining the persistence of visual perceptual dysfunctions ( R2 = 49.2%) were memory (Wechsler, delayed recall) ( p < 0.001), verbal comprehension (Token Test) ( p = 0.015), stroke severity (Canadian Neurological Scale) ( p = 0.005) and sex (female) ( p = 0.02). Conclusion Among many variables, four (memory, verbal comprehension, stroke severity and sex) were most strongly associated with persistent visual perceptual disorders. Other studies are needed to better understand the role of memory and verbal comprehension in visual perceptual disorders after stroke.