bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A control-oriented semi-physical model for a direct expansion air conditioning system
Authors: Xiangguo Xu , Shiming Deng , Xiaohong Han , Xuejun Zhang 
Published: February 2014

It is always a challenge to develop appropriate mathematical model for a direct expansion (DX) air conditioning (A/C) system, whose operational parameters are highly coupled and behave non-linearly. Different modeling approaches have their own merits. However, none of the currently available modeling approaches can solely satisfy the requirement, in terms of accuracy and sensitivity, for simultaneous control of air temperature and humidity using a DX A/C system, without any inadequacies. On the other hand, when developing a model for the purpose of controller development rather than investigating complete system characteristics, the focus would be on several key components, and the modeling for other components that are relatively less important may be simplified. Therefore, it is possible to utilize different modeling approaches for different physical processes to develop a novel control-oriented hybrid model, named as semi-physical model (SPM). In this paper, rationales for using different modeling approaches for different physical processes of a DX A/C system are firstly discussed, followed by the development and validation of the SPM. The development of a SPM-based controller for the simultaneous control of air temperature and humidity is also briefly introduced, and its control perform acts as additional evidence for validating the SPM. Practical application: This paper presents a hybrid modeling method, which combines the complementary merits of various modeling approaches and avoid the inadequacies of them based on the analysis of the requirement of controller development. Such a new control-oriented hybrid modeling method can be applied to not only simultaneous temperature and humidity control using a variable-speed DX A/C system but also other control applications where control loops are coupled and system operational characteristics are complicated.
The relationship between the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and the coronary collateral circulation in patients with chronic total occlusion
Authors: Kalkan ME , Şahin M , Kalkan AK , Güler A , Taş MH , Bulut M , Demir S , Acar RD , Arslantaş U , Öztürkeri B , Güler Y , Akçakoyun M 
Published: February 2014

Objectives: Previous studies showed the association between the major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and both higher neutrophil and lower lymphocyte counts. We aimed to investigate whether there is an association between the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) value and the development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO). Methods: A total of 274 patients with CTO were included in this study. Patients were then classified according to their Rentrop collateral grades as either poor (Rentrop grades 0-1) or good (Rentrop grades 2-3). Clinical information and analyses of blood samples were obtained from a review of the patients’ charts. Results: Although there was no difference between the two groups with regard to cardiovascular risk profiles, the NLR values were significantly higher in the patients who had poorly developed CCC (2.6 ± 0.5 vs 2.2 ± 0.4, p<0.001). NLR, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), white blood cell count (WBC), age, diabetes, fasting glucose levels and body mass index were found to have univariate association with poorly developed CCC (p<0.1). In a multivariate logistic regression model, NLR (odds ratio 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.37–2.74; p<0.001), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and WBC were found to be the independent predictors of poor CCC. In receiver operator characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cut-off value of NLR to predict poor CCC was found as 2.17, with 77% sensitivity and 65% specificity. Conclusion: NLR, as a novel cardiovascular risk marker, is an important, simple and inexpensive method which can be used by the cardiologist as a screening inflammation tool to estimate the development of CCC in patients with CTO.
Impella 5.0 microaxial pump as a right ventricular assist device after surgical treatment of posterior post-infarction ventricular septal defect
Authors: Peltan J , Oses P , Calderon J , Casassus F , Barandon L 
Published: February 2014

The Impella Recover LP 5.0® is an aortic transvalvular microaxial pump designed to unload the left ventricle and to ensure a systemic flow in severe left ventricular dysfunction. We propose a new suggestion for the Impella 5.0 as a temporary right ventricular assist device after the surgical treatment of a posterior post-infarction ventricular septal defect.
Effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention in reducing emotional distress in informal caregivers of hip fracture patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Martín-Martín Lydia M , Valenza-Demet Gerald , Ariza-Vega Patrocinio , Valenza Carmen , Castellote-Caballero Yolanda , Jiménez-Moleón José Juan 
Published: February 2014

Objective: To examine the effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention program in reducing emotional distress in informal caregivers of hip fracture patients. Design: Single-blind randomized controlled trial. Setting: A public Trauma and Rehabilitation Hospital in Granada, Spain. Participants: A total of 186 caregivers and their care recipients with hip fracture (93 in each group) were allocated to an intervention group or a control group using a block system. Intervention: An occupational therapy intervention during patient hospitalization focused on patient handling by caregivers and ergonomic treatment for both. Main measures: The Goldberg General Health Questionnaire was used to measure emotional distress and psychological well-being. The Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to measure caregiver affective illness. Results: Among informal caregivers, emotional distress decreased to a greater extent in the intervention group than in the control group from the first assessment to the six-month follow-up (intervention group: 4.16 (SD 4.57) to 2.81 (SD 2.93); control group: 4.61 (SD 4.57) to 4.24 (SD 4.30)), showing significant differences at the first, third and sixth month. As regards anxiety levels, significant differences were only found at the third month (1.54 (SD 2.09) vs. 2.35 (SD 2.53) in the intervention and control groups, respectively ( p < 0.05)), although the intervention group always showed lower levels from the first month. Although depression levels decreased in both groups, the decrease was also greater in the intervention group. Conclusion: Occupational therapy training for caregivers of hip fracture patients helps to significantly reduce emotional distress, anxiety and depression in caregivers.
Increasing anticholinergic burden and delirium in palliative care inpatients
Authors: Zimmerman Kristin M , Salow Marci , Skarf L Michal , Kostas Tia , Paquin Allison , Simone Mark J , Rudolph James 
Published: February 2014

Background: Delirium may complicate the hospital course and adversely impact remaining quality of life for palliative care inpatients. Medications with anticholinergic properties have been linked to delirium within elderly populations via serum anticholinergic assays. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine whether increasing anticholinergic burden, as measured using a clinical assessment tool, is associated with an increase in delirium among palliative care inpatients. Design: This study was completed as a retrospective, case-control study. Setting/participants: Veterans admitted to the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and consulted to the palliative care service were considered for inclusion. Increase in anticholinergic burden from admission through hospital day 14 was assessed using the Anticholinergic Risk Scale. Presence of delirium was determined by use of a validated chart review instrument. Results: A total of 217 patients were analyzed, with a mean age of 72.9 (±12.8) years. The overall delirium rate was 31% ( n = 67). Patients with an increase in Anticholinergic Risk Scale ( n = 72 (33%)) were 40% more likely to experience delirium (odds ratio = 1.44, 95% confidence interval = 1.07–1.94) compared to those without increase ( n = 145 (67%)). After adjustment for age, brain metastasis, intensive care unit admission, illness severity, opiate use, and admission Anticholinergic Risk Scale using multivariable modeling, delirium risk remained significantly higher in patients with an Anticholinergic Risk Scale increase compared to those without increase (adjusted odds ratio = 1.43, 95% confidence interval = 1.04–1.94). Conclusion: An increase in Anticholinergic Risk Scale from admission was associated with delirium in palliative care inpatients. While additional study is needed, anticholinergic burden should be increased cautiously in palliative inpatients, and those with increases should be closely followed for delirium.
Safety of Propofol as an Induction Agent for Urgent Endotracheal Intubation in the Medical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Koenig Seth J. , Lakticova Viera , Narasimhan Mangala , Doelken Peter , Mayo Paul H. 
Published: February 2014

Purpose: Propofol is known to provide excellent intubation conditions without the use of neuromuscular blocking agents. However, propofol has adverse effects that may limit its use in the critically ill patients, particularly in the hemodynamically unstable patient. We report on the safety and efficacy of propofol for use as an agent for urgent endotracheal intubation (UEI) in the critically ill patients. Methods: We reviewed the outcomes of 472 consecutive UEIs performed by a medical intensive care unit (ICU) team at a tertiary care hospital from November 2008 through November 2012. Outcome data were collected prospectively as part of an ongoing quality improvement project. Results: Propofol was used as the sole sedative agent in 409 (87%) of the 472 patients. In 18 (4%) of the 472 patients, other agents (midazolam, lorazepam, or etomidate) were used in addition to propofol. Of the 472, 10 (2%) intubations were performed with a sedative agent other than propofol, and 35 (7%) of the 472 intubations were performed without any sedating agent. Endotracheal tube insertion was successful in all 472 patients. Complications of UEI in those patients who received propofol were as follows: desaturation (Sao2 < 80%) 30 (7%) of the 427, hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 70 mm Hg) 19 (4%) of the 427, difficult intubation (>2 attempts) 44 (10%) of the 427, esophageal intubation 24 (6%) of the 427, aspiration 6 (1%) of the 427, and oropharyngeal injury 4 (1%) of the 427. There were no deaths. Average dose of propofol was 99 mg (standard deviation 7.39) per person. Conclusions: Our results compare favorably with the complication rate of UEI reported in the critical care and anesthesiology literature and indicate that propofol is a useful agent for airway management in the ICU.
The evaluation of cord blood interleukin-1β levels in normal and caesarean deliveries
Authors: Gedikbaşi A , Salihoğlu Ö , Çankaya A , Arica V , Akkuş CH , Hatipoğlu S , Yaşar L 
Published: February 2014

Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to establish the cord blood interleukin 1β (IL-1β) levels and asphyxia enzymes in term newborns and their relationship between delivery modes. We investigated whether cord blood level of IL-1β could be used as a reliable marker for detecting hypoxic stress and to determine the optimal cut-off level for IL-1β. Methods: The study was designed prospectively. Cord blood samples were obtained at the time of delivery from 75 noninfected full-term neonates for the purpose of measuring cord blood levels of IL-1β. Women were classified into three groups according to the mode of delivery (20 vaginal delivery, 29 urgent caesarean section (with foetal distress) and 26 elective caesarean section). All cases were followed-up by hospitalization. Umbilical cord sampling was carried out for IL-1β, umbilical artery gas parameters and other asphyxia enzymes at the time of delivery. Cord blood IL-1β was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The perinatal outcomes of the cases were recorded after birth. Demographic characteristics, neonatal outcomes and laboratory findings were compared in all the three groups. Results: IL-1β levels showed statistically significant difference between groups ( p < 0.01). The relationship was found between IL-1β cord blood levels and the mode of delivery. IL-1β levels of urgent caesarean section group were significantly higher than elective caesarean section and normal delivery group ( p:0.001 and p:0.001, respectively). Normal delivery levels were significantly higher than the elective caesarean group ( p:0.001). Conclusion: Urgent section (foetal distress) and vaginal delivery (labour) were each associated with elevated IL-1β cord blood levels in noninfected full-term neonates, while only elective caesarean section was associated with decreased IL-1β levels. For the evaluation of newborns at high risk for perinatal hypoxic stress, cord blood IL-1β levels may lead the way. On the other hand, the mode of delivery may be associated with the effects on the immune system. Further investigations with larger patient groups are required to confirm our results.
A modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy by pulling ureter with Carter–Thomason fascial closure and ureter incision by broken 15th blade
Authors: Choi H. , Kim J. H. , Park J. Y. , Shim J. S. , Bae J. H. 
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy for the treatment of upper ureteral stones; this method involved the use of a Carter–Thomason fascial closure device, a broken 15th blade. Material and Methods: From February 2009 to December 2012, 38 patients with unilateral upper ureteral stones were examined and classified into 2 groups: one group underwent conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (n = 21) and the other group underwent modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (n = 17). The modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy consisted of the use of a Carter–Thomason fascial closure to extract the black silk along with the nylon tape. The ureter incision was made with a modified instrument consisting of a needle holder with a broken 15th blade tip. Results and Conclusions: Patient demographics were similar in both groups. No significant differences were detected between the conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy groups with respect to operating time, estimated blood loss, and stone clearance rates. Drain-indwelling times were significantly shorter in modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients than in conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients (3.2 ± 1.3 vs 4.7 ± 1.5 days). Hospital stay was significantly lesser in modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients than in conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients (4.3 ± 1.2 vs 5.2 ± 1.2 days). No differences were detected in the ureteral stent indwelling time for the two groups. The use of the Carter–Thomason fascial closure facilitated ureter handling, and the use of a needle holder with a broken 15th blade tip enabled a sharp and precise ureteral incision. Our method allows early removal of the drain and thus earlier patient discharge.
Patient-reported outcomes after prostate cancer treatment
Authors: Grover Surbhi , Metz James M , Vachani Carolyn , Hampshire Margaret K , DiLullo Gloria A , Hill-Kayser Christine 
Published: February 2014

Objective: Our aim was to understand patient-reported toxicities resulting from treatment of prostate cancer using various different modalities that have similar oncological endpoints. Methods and materials: An Internet-based survivorship care plan tool was used to collect patient-reported toxicity data for men who had undergone prostate cancer treatment. Results: A total of 127 users of the survivorship care plan tool reported to have been treated for prostate cancer. The median age of the patients at diagnosis in this group was 60 years (range = 25–74 years) and median time since diagnosis was 4 years (range 1–15 years); 61 (48%) received radiation as primary treatment, 44 (35%) received surgery as primary treatment and 22 (17%) received both surgery and radiation (adjuvant or salvage). Hormonal treatment was given to 50 (39%) patients. Some 15% (7/48) in the radiation group versus 50% (21/42) in the surgery group ( p < 0.001) developed urinary incontinence; 61% (33/54) in the radiation group and 86% (37/43) in the surgery group ( p = 0.02) reported having erectile dysfunction since treatment. Most users (84%) had not been offered a survivorship care plan previously. Conclusion: Men with prostate cancer experience significant urinary and sexual sequelae from treatment regardless of the modality used. Patients treated with surgery reported more urinary and sexual side effects than those treated with radiation. The majority of these men are not offered a survivorship care plan to deal with these long-term effects. Survivorship planning tools to assess such side effects and design long-term individualized plans are essential for all prostate cancer patients.
Applications of evolving technologies in sleep medicine
Authors: Verbraecken Johan 
Published: February 2014

SummaryNocturnal polysomnography (PSG) is the most important laboratory technique in the management of sleep–wake disturbances and is considered the “gold standard” [1]. New sensor technologies are entering the field, and rapid development in telecommunications and mobile technology has accelerated the introduction of telemedicine as a viable and reliable option [2]. The present broad review is an amalgam of the current knowledge with proposed new sensors and remote control. The reader should note that not all of the techniques discussed here have strong clinical validation, and this should be considered when purchasing equipment.
Psychological stress induced zinc accumulation and up-regulation of ZIP14 and metallothionein in rat liver
Authors: Tian Xue , Zheng Yuanyuan , Li Yingjie , Shen Zhilei , Tao Liping , Dou Xiao , Qian Jianxin , Shen Hui 
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Background
Zinc is necessary for normal liver function; and vice versa, the liver plays a central role in zinc homeostasis. The aim of present study is to assess the effects of repeated psychological stress (PS) on the zinc metabolism and related mechanism involved in zinc homeostasis in rat liver.

Methods
In present study, we used communication box to create PS model and investigated the serum corticosterone (CORT), zinc level in serum and liver, liver metallothionein (MT) content and ZRT/IRT-like Protein 14 (ZIP14) mRNA expression.

Results
The results showed that the serum CORT level increased and serum zinc level decreased significantly after 7 d and 14 d PS treatment. Meanwhile, zinc and MT contents in liver were elevated after 14 d PS exposure, while those in 7 d PS exposure group did not change. ZIP14 mRNA was expressed markedly at 7 d after the onset of PS, while Zip14 mRNA expression in the liver after 14 d PS exposure reached normal level compared with control group.

Conclusions
The results suggest that PS exposure could induce hypozincemia, which might be related to liver zinc accumulation because of high level of MT through glucocorticoid-mediated MT synthesis and ZIP14 expression induced by interleukin-6.
The epidemiology of gastrointestinal stromal tumors in Taiwan, 1998–2008: a nation-wide cancer registry-based study
Authors: Chiang Nai-Jung , Chen Li-Tzong , Tsai Chia-Rung , Chang Jeffrey S 
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Background
To investigate the incidence of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in Taiwan and the impact of imatinib on the overall survival (OS) of GIST patients.

Methods
GISTs were identified from the Taiwan Cancer Registry (TCR) from 1998 to 2008. The age-adjusted incidence rates and the observed OS rates were calculated. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to examine the mortality risk in three time periods (1998–2001, 2002–2004, 2005–2008) according to the application and availability of imatinib.

Results
From 1998 to 2008, 2,986 GISTs were diagnosed in Taiwan. The incidence increased from 1.13 per 100,000 in 1998 to 1.97 per 100,000 in 2008. The most common sites were stomach (47-59%), small intestine (31-38%), and colon/rectum (6-9%). The 5-year observed OS was 66.5% (60.3% for men, 74.2% for women, P < .0001). GISTs in the stomach had a better 5-year observed OS (69.4%) than those in the small intestine (65.1%) (P < .0001). The outcome of GIST improved significantly after the more widespread use of imatinib; the 5-year observed OS increased from 58.9% during 1998–2001 to 70.2% during 2005–2008 (P < .0001). Younger age, female sex, stomach location, and later diagnostic years were independent predictors of a better survival.

Conclusions
The incidence of GIST has been increasing in Taiwan, partially due to the advancement of diagnostic technology/method and the increased awareness by physicians. The outcome of GIST has improved significantly with the availability and the wider use of imatinib.
Metal-particle-induced enhancement of the photoluminescence from biomolecule-functionalized carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kim Se-Jin , Park June , Jeong Yuhyun , Go Hayoung , Lee Kangseok , Hong Seunghun , Seong Maeng-Je 
Published: February 2014

Abstract
The effect of metal particles on the photoluminescence (PL) and the Raman spectra of functionalized SWCNTs in aqueous solutions was systematically investigated by studying three different metal particles (gold, cobalt, and nickel) on three different SWCNT suspensions (DNA-, RNA-, and sodium deoxycholate salt (DOC)-functionalized SWCNTs). Substantial enhancement of the PL intensities was observed, while the Raman spectra remained unchanged, after gold, cobalt, or nickel particles were introduced into RNA-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. Almost the same results were obtained after the same metal particles were added to DNA-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. However, both the PL and the Raman spectra did not exhibit any change at all after the same metal particles were introduced into DOC-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. The unusual PL enhancements observed in this work cannot be accounted for by the three well-known mechanisms in the literature: surface-enhanced Raman scattering effect, Förster resonance energy transfer in a rebundling of isolated SWCNTs, and pH changes of the aqueous solutions.
A case of purpura fulminans caused by Hemophilus influenzae complicated by reversible cardiomyopathy
Authors: Endo Akira , Shiraishi Atsushi , Aiboshi Junichi , Hayashi Yoshiro , Otomo Yasuhiro 
Published: February 2014

AbstractHere, we report a case of a 41-year-old male diagnosed as septic shock with purpura fulminans (PF) infection. The causative organism was β-lactamase-negative ampicillin-resistantHemophilus influenzae. He developed fulminant cardiac dysfunction approximately 1 h after admission, and the cause was considered to be septic cardiomyopathy. Blood pressure and oxygenation were maintained at adequate levels with the aid of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The cardiac dysfunction was reversible, and he was successfully weaned from ECMO on day 12 of hospitalization. However, he needed amputation for all extremities because the infection spread to his limbs and eventually, succumbed to sepsis caused by empyema on day 34 of hospitalization. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second case of PF caused byH. influenzaein an adult to be reported worldwide.