bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
D-Dimer, A Predictor Of Bad Outcome In Gastric Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Resection
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Xuan , Li Wenxing , Sun Tuanhe , Diao Dongmei , Dang Chengxue 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Introduction: As a marker of hypercoagulability, plasma D-dimer is associated with progression of many cancers but remains controversial in gastric cancer (GC). We aim to investigate the predictive value of D-dimer for postoperative outcomes after radical gastrectomy of GC patients.Materials and Methods: We enrolled 903 consecutive patients with GC who underwent radical gastrectomy and the clinicopathological characteristics were compared. Risk factors for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were determined using multivariate cox regression analysis. We also compared the difference in survival between the two groups after a one-to-one propensity score matching (PSM).Results: Patients with elevated D-dimer had older age (p<0.001), advanced TNM stage (p<0.001), larger tumor size (p=0.005), lower 5-year OS rate (32.8% vs 62.6%, p<0.001) and DFS (29% vs 59.6%, p<0.001). In multivariate analysis, elevated D-dimer was independently associated with shorter OS [hazard ratio (HR): 1.633, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.178-2.264, p=0.003] and DFS (HR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.151-2.169, P=0.005). After PSM, the 5-year OS rate of patients with elevated D-dimer was still significantly lower than matched group (32.8% vs 40.6%, p=0.005), so was DFS (29% vs 36.6%, p=0.008).Conclusion: Preoperative plasma D-dimer is an independent prognostic factor for GC patients undergoing curative gastrectomy.
Abdominal Massage Regulates the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Sensitivity through Mast Cells mediated Trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway
Authors: Wang Jingui , Li Huanan , Zhang Wei , Ma Fei , Zhang Xianfan , Wang Yuyan 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a clinical disease mainly manifested by abdominal pain and discomfort, which troubles the majority of human aged 20-50. Abdomen massage is of great medical significance for the health of the body, including promoting intestinal peristalsis, relieving constipation, helping to lose weight. However its function and mechanism in IBS was seldom reported. Methods：Firstly, we established IBS and abdomen massage rat model to detect the distribution of mast cells. Then, we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence staining and laser confocal focus to visualize the micromorphology of intestinal mucosa, the expression of TRPV1 and the release of trypase. RT-qPCR and Western Blot were used for the mechanism study. Results：We found that compared with the control group, the MC in IBS group was significantly increased and the increased MC was partially decreased by abdominal massage with or without ketotifen treated. We also found that TRPV1 was up-regulated in IBS group. Abdominal massage with or without ketotifen treated could attenuate the up-regulation of TRPV1 in IBS and massage group. Mechanically, results of IHC and Western Blot suggested abdominal massage reduce the sensitivity of IBS by regulating trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway.Conclusion: Overall, our results suggested that abdominal massage paly a protective role in IBS through inhibiting MC and trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway. Ketotifen could promote the effect of abdominal massage on IBS treatment, which would be a potential therapeutic strategy for IBS.
Induction Bending Effects on Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Duplex Stainless Steel UNS S31803 Pipes
Authors: Garcia Pedro Soucasaux Pires , Pardal Juan Manuel , Tavares Sérgio Souto Maior , de Souza Larissa Ribeiro , Meireles Antônio Marcelo , Souza Mauro Carlos Lopes , Areiza Maria Cristina Lopez , Martins Tabatta Regina de Brito 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Duplex stainless steels are well known austenitic-ferritic alloys which combines good mechanical resistance and excellent corrosion resistance. Due to this fact, this steel family is widely employed in offshore piping applications. However, these alloys require great care in thermomechanical processing, such as welding, since they might present serious decrease in corrosion resistance and toughness at the welded joint when compared to the base metal. Undeniably, welding is one of the major processes employed in pipe and industrial equipment assembly, thus requiring higher expertise and caution in order to achieve the desirable good combination of properties of duplex stainless steel alloys. In this context, induction bending process comes as an efficient alternative to reduce the number of weld joints in piping designs. In this work, induction bent tubes were characterized after bending in temperatures inside and outside the standard recommended range, that is, between 950 and 1150°C. Microstructural characterization, mechanical testing and corrosion tests were performed, indicating that the properties of curved materials remained comparable to a solubilized state. Therefore, the electromagnetic induction bending process proves to be not only a viable tool in thermomechanical processing of these materials, but also more productive.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on congenital diaphragmatic hernia patients: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Yun-Long , Wang Ying , Liu Chao , Jiang Yu-Lin , Wei Yan-Dong , Meng Hua , Jian Shan , Zhu Xi-Ting , Pei Li-Jian , Bai Xiao-Chen , Feng Feng , Lv Yan , Zhou Xi-Ya , Qi Qing-Wei , Li Jing-Na , Ji Wei , Ma Li-Shuang 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Purpose To investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the treatment of children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).Methods We retrospectively collected and compared the data of patients with CDH admitted between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 with the CDH patients admitted before the pandemic between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2019 (control group).Results During the pandemic, 41 patients with CDH diagnosed prenatally were transferred to our hospital, and 40 underwent surgical repair. The number of patients treated in our hospital increased by 24.2% compared with that before the pandemic. During the pandemic, the overall survival rate, postoperative survival rate and recurrence rate were 85.4%, 87.5% and 7.3%, respectively, and there were no significant differences compared with the control group. The average length of hospital stay in patients admitted during the pandemic was longer than that in the control group, and the incidence of nosocomial infection was higher than that in the control group.Conclusions CDH patients confirmed to be SARS-CoV-2 infection-free can receive routine treatment. Our data indicate that the implementation of protective measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with appropriate screening and case evaluation, do not have a negative impact on the prognosis of children.
Macular Holes Scan With OCT, Radial or Horizontal Scan?
Authors: Liu Xiuhua , Zhang Jie , Gao Lei , Liu Lifeng , Huang Xudong 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
PURPOSE: Most macular holes was not circular but rather somewhat oval, and thus simple horizontal scans may not accurately capture their dimensions. In this study, we measured the MH with radial and horizontal images to explore the impact of the two scanning modes on the measurement of MH.METHODS: The macular hole was scanned with 12 radial and 49 horizontal lines scan, respectively. The aperture size including minimum linear dimension (MLD) and base diameters (BD) was measured using the OCT caliper function.RESULTS: A total of 40 idiopathic MH in 38 patients were included in the study. The average maximum MLD of radial scan was 576.40±220.86um, and the average maximum MLD of horizontal scan was 552.38±217.65um (t=-6.919, P<0.0001). Moreover, the average maximum BD of radial scan was 1026.18±337.85um, and the average maximum BD of horizontal scan was 997.35±339.51um (t=-4.375，P=0.0001). Only 9 cases (22.5%) of 40 macular holes had the largest MLD on the horizontal scan line, and only 12 cases (30%) had the largest BD hole on the horizontal scan line. We also found that with radial scan image, 3 eyes (7.5%) of 40 eyes had macular hole upgrade from medium to large size .CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirmed that macular hole was not the standard circle of geometry, and OCT radial scan could find the maximum longitude of macular hole more effectively than horizontal scan without changing the equipment and measuring habits, which was undoubtedly of great significance for standardizing and grading macular hole.
Faculty as a Change Agent: Lessons Learned from a Change Management Game Virtual Workshop: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wasfy Nourhan F. , Kamal Doaa , Fouad Sally , Abouzeid Enjy 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
The dramatic change in the learning environment, in the universities, had forced academic medical faculty to play several roles and rapidly adapt and lead this change. Thus, this study aimed to identify the critical success factors that may help academic medical faculty to be a change agent as well as explore effective ways to manage such a change.
Methods
This work utilized a deductive qualitative grounded theory approach aiming to identify the factors and effective ways to manage change. A convenient non-probability sample of thirty faculty members participated in a change management game virtual workshop using the jigsaw technique and change management game. This game has 34 cards with Change Management questions. The research team revised and modified the change management game questions. After revision and modification, the game consisted of four groups of questions, each group included 6–9 questions with a total of 28 questions
Results
The findings were organized under four themes: Individual, Environmental, System/organizational, and Network/interactions-related factors that help the academic medical faculty to be change agents. The participants agreed that a change agent should have transformational leadership attributes, be a role model and a good communicator having strong social connections. Additionally, participants described the change-resistant environment as a major obstacle to change. The presence of skeptics and the inability to find the required supportive team were indicated as important network-related barriers while the significant role play in this team is the innovators. Finally, the destination to make people agree to change is developing and communicating a shared vision and change culture.
Conclusions
The current study added to the body of knowledge the academic medical faculty view of a successful change agent. This study was able to evidence that despite the challenges the faculty are always facing, every faculty can be a change agent in his position and different situations. Therefore, Training, supporting, developing, and rewarding the academic faculty to ensure that the next generation of change agents will be equipped to be proactive on the frontlines of any change will be outlined.
Failure analysis of AISI 430 stainless-steel sheet under stretching and bending conditions
Authors: LUIZ VALMIR DIAS , Rodrigues Paulo César de Matos 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Ferritic stainless steels have been widely used to substitute austenitic steels because of their lower cost and higher deep drawing capacity. However, failures, such as shear fracture, have been observed in parts with small radii during the drawing process in applications where both bending and stretching occurs. Conventional techniques, such as failure criterion consideration, finite element method, and forming limit diagram, are unable to predict this type of fracture, which has hampered the development of new processes and products. To overcome this limitation, herein, we investigated the effects of tool radius, direction, and test speed on the formability to fracture of an AISI 430 stainless-steel sheet under bending and stretching conditions. An equipment was used to perform the draw-bend fracture (DBF) test based on the bending under tension test. The DBF test efficiently reproduced the tensile, mixed, and shear fractures. Furthermore, we determined the fracture limit strain on the outer surface, thickness, and sidewall of the sample, as well as the coefficient of friction. The data showed that the radius to thickness ratio related to the process parameters had a direct impact on the experimental results. In addition, the results can be utilized for setting design guidelines and failure prevention.
The Clinicopathological Characteristics, MRI Features, And Radiation Dose Of Radio-Induced Brain Necrosis In Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Zhong Minggu , Peng Yinglin , Mao Siyue , Chen YuKun , Duan Hao , Wu Suwen , Wu Yi , Gu Jiyong , Li Zhibin , Cui Enming , Wen Jun , Liu Shulan , Liu YuJie , Wei Ronglue , Liu Junying , Luan Zhongqin , Feng Zize , Peng Yilong , Zhang Wenguang , Dong Jiajun , Dong Jun 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background: Radio-induced brain necrosis is a late-onset radiotherapy complication, especially in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients. We presented the clinicopathological characteristics, dynamic changes of MRI features, and radiation dose in the areas of radio-induced brain necrosis, which will shed light on preventing this severe radiotherapy complication. Methods: We retrospectively collecting and reanalyzing clinical, imaging, radiation plans and pathological data from 48 NPC patients diagnosed with radio-induced brain necrosis and underwent craniotomy. To calculate the radiation dose in the areas of radio-induced brain necrosis, we reviewed the radiation plan of each patient and delineated the volume of the radio-induced brain necrosis. We also mapped the dynamic changes of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and performed CD3, CD31, CD68, CD11b, Ki67, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and HE staining on radio-induced brain necrosis specimens to observe pathological changes. Results: The mean latency period for radio-induced brain necrosis was 9.23 years. According to the radiotherapy plans, the mean radiation dose for NPC was 7041±553 cGy. The mean dose to the radio-induced brain necrosis area was 5684.57±409.99 cGy. The necrotic areas exhibited high-intensity signals on T2-weighted images (WIs) and low-intensity signals on T1WIs over time. HE staining showed that the necrotic areas contained irregular fibers and inflammatory cells. The immunohistochemical results showed CD3(+), CD31(+), CD68(+), CD11b(+), Ki67(+), and TUNEL(+) cells in radio-induced brain necrosis specimens. Conclusions: NPC patients who underwent radiotherapy and survived more than 5 years with hyperintense signals in temporal lobes in the T2WI should be paid close attention to radio-induced brain necrosis. A radiation dose no more than 5684.57±409.99 cGy in temporal lobes of NPC patients is recommended.
Imitating dolphins: Impact of active boundary modulation on near-boundary velocity in channel flow
Authors: Matt Silvia , Hou Weilin , Thombs Austin , Shi Hongyang , Pinto Thassyo , Tan Xiaobo 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Recent advances in technology have renewed the interested in the impact of viscoelastic boundaries and active boundary modulation on hydrodynamic drag and boundary layer turbulence. Viscoelastic boundary materials, such as found in dolphin skin, have the potential to reduce frictional drag by delaying the transition from laminar to turbulent flow in the boundary layer around the body and minimizing turbulence. Possible mechanisms to reduce boundary layer turbulence include counteracting coherent structures or impacting momentum near the boundary. Actuating a deformable membrane in channel flow allows the investigation of the impact of boundary actuation on boundary layer turbulence for a range of actuation parameters and flow channel speeds. We developed a deformable boundary and tested the system in channel flow, in direct contact with the water, actuating at various wave patterns and frequencies. The impact on boundary layer velocity was investigated with Particle Image Velocimetry. Numerical simulations from a companion model complement and support experimental results. Boundary actuation is shown to impact the boundary layer velocity profile and frictional drag, and to reduce near-boundary shear in the region of actuation. Achieving a reduction of boundary layer turbulence in a natural environment could lead to more energy-efficient platforms and underwater vehicles.
Development of novel immunotherapy based on nanoparticle co-delivering PLK1 and PD-L1 inhibitors for lung cancer treatment
Authors: Reda Moataz , Ngamcherdtrakul Worapol , Nelson Molly , Siriwon Natnaree , Wang Ruijie , Zaidan Husam , Bejan Daniel , Reda Sherif , Hoang Ngoc , Crumrine Noah , Rehwaldt Justin , Bindal Akash , Mills Gordon , Gray Joe , Yantasee Wassana 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-L1 and PD-1 have improved survival in a subset of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a minority of NSCLC patients respond to ICIs, highlighting the need for superior immunotherapy. Herein, we developed a nanoparticle-based immunotherapy termed ARAC (Antigen Release Agent and Checkpoint Inhibitor) to enhance the efficacy of PD-L1 inhibitor. ARAC is a nanoparticle co-delivering PLK1 inhibitor (volasertib) and PD-L1 antibody. PLK1 is a key mitotic kinase that is overexpressed in various cancers including NSCLC and drives cancer growth. Inhibition of PLK1 selectively kills cancer cells and upregulates PD-L1 expression in surviving cancer cells thereby providing opportunity for ARAC targeted delivery in a positive feedback manner. ARAC reduced effective doses of volasertib and PD-L1 antibody by 5-fold in a metastatic lung tumor model (LLC-JSP) and the effect was mainly mediated by CD8 + T cells. Notably, ARAC also showed efficacy in another lung tumor model (KLN-205), which does not respond to CTLA-4 and PD-1 inhibitor combination. Further, the nanoparticle construct was well-tolerated in non-human primates. This study highlights a rationale combination strategy to augment existing therapies by utilizing our nanoparticle platform that can load multiple cargo types at once.
How To Improve Hospital Employees’ Health And Wellbeing: A Staff Consultation
Authors: Lawrence Wendy , Hine Jasmine , Watson Daniella , Walker-Bone Karen , Smedley Julia 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background: The health and wellbeing of healthcare workers influences absenteeism, presenteeism and ultimately patient care and outcomes. In 2016 NHS England funded six pilot sites to launch the ‘NHS Healthy Workforce Project’, a programme of services and support for NHS staff to support their health and wellbeing. This paper explores the perspectives of healthcare workers in a large public hospital (11,000 staff) on employers supporting their health and wellbeing, and the initiatives being trialled. Methods: Heads of departments/services were invited to convene focus groups, which were facilitated by a moderator using a semi-structured discussion guide. An observer took notes and circulated sign-in sheets to capture approximate numbers of attendees. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.Results: Approximately 450 members of staff participated in 28 focus groups. Themes identified were: 1) unique nature of working in a large hospital, 2) hospital management agenda and relationship with staff, 3) working environment, and 4) staff health and wellbeing initiatives. Optimal uptake of health-promoting initiatives was hindered in part due to lack of staff awareness and a range of barriers, such as lack of time, limited breaks, putting patients first, not trusting employers’ motivations, issues of confidentiality, and inadequate facilities. Key requirements for improving staff health were perceived to be sufficient staffing, time and space to work safely and comfortably. Conclusions: Rather than investing in a range of initiatives devised by the organisation (a top down approach), an essential first step might be to engage with staff to hear their views, build trust and identify their needs (a bottom up approach). Looking after NHS staff health has become even more of a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. As staff needs change, as they have done during the pandemic, it is important to continue engaging with them to understand how best to support them to look after their health and stay safe. Increased pressure on NHS staff is likely to have decreased the time they have to look after their own health and wellbeing, making it even more important that managers engage with and listen to their staff’s views.
Investigating The Effects Of Diet-Induced Pre-Diabetes On Calciotropic Hormones In Male Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Naidoo Karishma , Ngubane Phikelelani S , Khathi Andile 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Calcium homeostasis is disturbed emanating from altered calciotropic hormone concentrations in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a condition preceded by pre-diabetes. Disrupted calcium homeostasis has shown to promote insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia. However, the changes to calciotropic hormones in the pre-diabetic state is not known. Hence, this study investigated the effects of diet- induced pre-diabetes on calciotropic hormones in a pre-diabetic rat model. This study also sought to determine the association of calciotropic hormones with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and insulin resistance during pre-diabetes. Twelve male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into two groups (n=6, per group): pre-diabetic (PD) and non-pre-diabetic (NPD). Fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin, HbA1c and the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in addition to urine calcium, plasma calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin, vitamin D and calcitriol concentrations were analysed at week 20. Correlation analysis was performed to examine the associations of calciotropic hormones with HOMA-IR and HbA1c. The results demonstrated increased concentrations of HbA1c, FBG, insulin and HOMA-IR in the PD group by comparison to NPD. Furthermore, plasma PTH, calcitonin, urine calcium, calcitriol and vitamin D levels increased along with unchanged plasma calcium concentrations in the PD group by comparison to NPD. Plasma PTH and calcitonin levels were positively correlated with HbA1c but not with HOMA-IR in the PD group. Plasma calcitriol levels were negatively correlated with HbA1c in the PD group. These observations suggest that calcium homeostasis is disturbed in diet- induced pre-diabetes but the body compensates for the changes by inducing an increase in calciotropic hormone levels. Furthermore, pre-diabetes may promote the development of hyperglycemia in T2DM through altering calciotropic hormone levels.