BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are commonly used in hospitalized patients with liver cancer for the administration of chemotherapy,nutrition,and other medications.However,PICC-related thrombo...BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are commonly used in hospitalized patients with liver cancer for the administration of chemotherapy,nutrition,and other medications.However,PICC-related thrombosis is a serious complication that can lead to morbidity and mortality in this patient population.Several risk factors have been identified for the development of PICC-related thrombosis,including cancer type,stage,comorbidities,and catheter characteristics.Understanding these risk factors and developing a predictive model can help healthcare providers identify high-risk patients and implement preventive measures to reduce the incidence of thrombosis.AIM To analyze the influencing factors of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,construct a predictive model,and validate it.METHODS Clinical data of hospitalized patients with liver cancer admitted from January 2020 to December 2023 were collected.Thirty-five cases of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer were collected,and 220 patients who underwent PICC placement during the same period but did not develop PICC-related thrombosis were randomly selected as controls.A total of 255 samples were collected and used as the training set,and 77 cases were collected as the validation set in a 7:3 ratio.General patient information,case data,catheterization data,coagulation indicators,and Autar Thrombosis Risk Assessment Scale scores were analyzed.Univariate and multivariate unconditional logistic regression analyses were performed on relevant factors,and the value of combined indicators in predicting PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve analysis.RESULTS Univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences(P<0.05)in age,sex,Karnofsky performance status score(KPS),bedridden time,activities of daily living impairment,parenteral nutrition,catheter duration,distant metastasis,and bone marrow suppression between the thrombosis group and the non-thrombosis group.Other aspects had no statistically significant differences(P>0.05).Multivariate regression analysis showed that age≥60 years,KPS score≤50 points,parenteral nutrition,stage III to IV,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment were independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer(P<0.05).Catheter duration of 1-6 months and catheter duration>6 months were protective factors for PICC-related thrombosis(P<0.05).The predictive model for PICC-related thrombosis was obtained as follows:P predictive probability=[exp(Logit P)]/[1+exp(Logit P)],where Logit P=age×1.907+KPS score×2.045+parenteral nutrition×9.467+catheter duration×0.506+tumor-node-metastasis(TNM)staging×2.844+distant metastasis×2.065+bone marrow suppression×2.082+activities of daily living impairment×13.926.ROC curve analysis showed an area under the curve(AUC)of 0.827(95%CI:0.724-0.929,P<0.001),with a corresponding optimal cut-off value of 0.612,sensitivity of 0.755,and specificity of 0.857.Calibration curve analysis showed good consistency between the predicted occurrence of PICC-related thrombosis and actual occurrence(P>0.05).ROC analysis showed AUCs of 0.888 and 0.729 for the training and validation sets,respectively.CONCLUSION Age,KPS score,parenteral nutrition,TNM staging,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment are independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,while catheter duration is a protective factor for the disease.The predictive model has an AUC of 0.827,indicating high predictive accuracy and clinical value.展开更多
BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are an essential infusion route for oncology patients receiving intravenous treatments,but lower extremity veni-puncture is the preferred technique for patients...BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are an essential infusion route for oncology patients receiving intravenous treatments,but lower extremity veni-puncture is the preferred technique for patients with superior vena cava syndrome(SVCS).We report the case of a patient with a lower extremity PICC ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein,to indicate and verify PICC catheterisation in the lower extremity is safe and feasible.And hope to provide different per-spectives for clinical PICC venipuncture to get the attention of peers.CASE SUMMARY On 24 August 2022,a 58-year-old male was admitted to our department due to an intermittent cough persisting for over a month,which worsened 10 d prior.Imaging and laboratory investigations suggested the patient with pulmonary malignancy and SVCS.Chemotherapy was not an absolute contraindication in this patient.Lower extremity venipuncture is the preferred technique because administering upper extremity venous transfusion to patients with SVCS can exacerbate oedema in the head,neck,and upper extremities.The patient and his family were informed about the procedure,and informed consent was obtained.After successful puncture and prompt treatment,the patient was discharged,experiencing some relief from symptoms.CONCLUSION Inferior vena cava catheterisation is rare and important for cancer patients with SVCS,particularly in complex situations involving ectopic placement.展开更多
Central venous catheterization(CVC) is an invasive procedure for administering fluids,nutrients,and drugs;monitoring central venous pressure;performing pulmonary artery catheterization;and placing transvenous pacemake...Central venous catheterization(CVC) is an invasive procedure for administering fluids,nutrients,and drugs;monitoring central venous pressure;performing pulmonary artery catheterization;and placing transvenous pacemakers in intensive care units and all specialties,from anesthesia to emergency medicine,for the treatment of trauma and hemodynamically unstable pediatric and adult patients.[1,2]Complications have been observed in more than 15% of patients who underwent CVC.Mechanical,infectious,and thrombotic complications have been reported in 5%–19%,5%–26%,and 2%–26% of patients,respectively.[3] Malposition,on the other hand,is common in subclavian catheter insertion and is usually associated with an initially misplaced guidewire.[4]展开更多
Currently, the modeling of cutting process mainly focuses on two aspects: one is the setup of the universal cutting force model that can be adapted to a broader cutting condition; the other is the setup of the exact c...Currently, the modeling of cutting process mainly focuses on two aspects: one is the setup of the universal cutting force model that can be adapted to a broader cutting condition; the other is the setup of the exact cutting force model that can accurately reflect a true cutting process. However, there is little research on the prediction of chatter stablity in milling. Based on the generalized mathematical model of inserted cutters introduced by ENGIN, an improved geometrical, mechanical and dynamic model for the vast variety of inserted cutters widely used in engineering applications is presented, in which the average directional cutting force coefficients are obtained by means of a numerical approach, thus leading to an analytical determination of stability lobes diagram (SLD) on the axial depth of cut. A new kind of SLD on the radial depth of cut is also created to satisfy the special requirement of inserted cutter milling. The corresponding algorithms used for predicting cutting forces, vibrations, dimensional surface finish and stability lobes in inserted cutter milling under different cutting conditions are put forward. Thereafter, a dynamic simulation module of inserted cutter milling is implemented by using hybrid program of Matlab with Visual Basic. Verification tests are conducted on a vertical machine center for Aluminum alloy LC4 by using two different types of inserted cutters, and the effectiveness of the model and the algorithm is verified by the good agreement of simulation result with that of cutting tests under different cutting conditions. The proposed model can predict the cutting process accurately under a variety of cutting conditions, and a high efficient and chatter-free milling operation can be achieved by a cutting condition optimization in industry applications.展开更多
Venous access devices are of pivotal importance for an increasing number of critically ill patients in a variety of disease states and in a variety of clinical settings(emergency, intensive care, surgery) and for diff...Venous access devices are of pivotal importance for an increasing number of critically ill patients in a variety of disease states and in a variety of clinical settings(emergency, intensive care, surgery) and for different purposes(fluids or drugs infusions, parenteral nutrition, antibiotic therapy, hemodynamic monitoring, procedures of dialysis/apheresis). However, healthcare professionals are commonly worried about the possible consequences that may result using a central venous access device(CVAD)(mainly, bloodstream infections and thrombosis), both peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs) and centrally inserted central catheters(CICCs). This review aims to discuss indications, insertion techniques, and care of PICCs in critically ill patients. PICCs have many advantages over standard CICCs. First of all, their insertion is easy and safe-due to their placement into peripheral veins of the armand the advantage of a central location of catheter tip suitable for all osmolarity and p H solutions. Using the ultrasound-guidance for the PICC insertion, the risk of hemothorax and pneumothorax can be avoided, as wellas the possibility of primary malposition is very low. PICC placement is also appropriate to avoid post-procedural hemorrhage in patients with an abnormal coagulative state who need a CVAD. Some limits previously ascribed to PICCs(i.e., low flow rates, difficult central venous pressure monitoring, lack of safety for radio-diagnostic procedures, single-lumen) have delayed their start up in the intensive care units as common practice. Though, the recent development of power-injectable PICCs overcomes these technical limitations and PICCs have started to spread in critical care settings. Two important take-home messages may be drawn from this review. First, the incidence of complications varies depending on venous accesses and healthcare professionals should be aware of the different clinical performance as well as of the different risks associated with each type of CVAD(CICCs or PICCs). Second, an inappropriate CVAD choice and, particularly, an inadequate insertion technique are relevant-and often not recognized-potential risk factors for complications in critically ill patients. We strongly believe that all healthcare professionals involved in the choice, insertion or management of CVADs in critically ill patients should know all potential risk factors of complications. This knowledge may minimize complications and guarantee longevity to the CVAD optimizing the risk/benefit ratio of CVAD insertion and use. Proper management of CVADs in critical care saves lines and lives. Much evidence from the medical literature and from the clinical practice supports our belief that, compared to CICCs, the so-called power-injectable peripherally inserted central catheters are a good alternative choice in critical care.展开更多
The microstructure and mechanical properties of cast inserted dies for automobile covering components were studied. The results show that the as-cast microstructures of cast inserted dies are composed of pearlite, mar...The microstructure and mechanical properties of cast inserted dies for automobile covering components were studied. The results show that the as-cast microstructures of cast inserted dies are composed of pearlite, martensite, bainite, and austenite; and that the annealed microstructure is granular pearlite. The mechanical properties of cast inserted dies approach that of forged inserted dies. The tensile strength is 855 MPa, the elongation is 16%, the impact toughness is 177 J/cm2, and the hardness after annealing and quenching are HRC 19 and HRC 60-62. In addition, the cast inserted dies have good hardenability. The depth of the hardening zone and the hardness after flame quenching satisfy the operating requirements. The cast inserted dies could completely replace the forged inserted dies for making the dies of automobile covering components.展开更多
Implant insertion is an alternative to classical treatment with bridges after tooth extraction or traumatic tooth loss in the anterior and premolar region of the upper and lower jaw. Nevertheless both types of prosthe...Implant insertion is an alternative to classical treatment with bridges after tooth extraction or traumatic tooth loss in the anterior and premolar region of the upper and lower jaw. Nevertheless both types of prosthetic treatment inhere major gingival aesthetic pitfalls by physiological vertical and horizontal resorption. Aim of the study was to investigate if the immediate insertion of root analogue single-stage implants and prosthetic treatment could prevent gingival recessions and bone resorption thus keeping the natural gingival aesthetics untouched. Between 2003 and 2006, 348 root analogue Q1-Implants (TRINON Karlsruhe GmbH/Germany) were inserted in 342 patients’s premolar and molar regions immediately after tooth extraction or traumatic tooth loss and treated with provisional resin crowns. The observation period with recurring 6-month clinical and radiographic check-ups was a minimum of 5 years. Of 348 inserted implants 4 (1.15%) were lost resulting in an overall success rate of 98.85%. In the first 12 weeks after surgery a mean recession of the buccal gingival margin of 0.2 mm (SD 0.34) could be detected, after final prosthetic treatment an overall mean recession of 0.2 mm (SD 0.13) within the survey period. Immediate implant insertion of root analogue single stage implants and immediate prosthetic treatment with provisional resin crowns after minimal invasive tooth extraction seems to be appropriate to prevent bone resorptions of the buccal alveolar crest and the recessions of the gingiva and papillae and thus suggests to be the preferable treatment to keep the natural gingival and papillary aesthetics untouched preventing further traumatic surgical gingival reconstructions.展开更多
BACKGROUND Extremely premature infants have poor vascular conditions.Operators often choose deep veins such as the femoral vein and axillary vein to peripherally insert central catheters,and these vessels are often ac...BACKGROUND Extremely premature infants have poor vascular conditions.Operators often choose deep veins such as the femoral vein and axillary vein to peripherally insert central catheters,and these vessels are often accompanied by arteries;thus,it is easy to mistakenly enter the artery.CASE SUMMARY The case of an extremely premature infant(born at gestational age 28+3)in whom the left upper extremity artery was accidentally entered during peripheral puncture of the central venous catheter is reported.On the 19th day of hospitalization,the index finger,middle finger and ring finger of the left hand were rosy,the left radial artery and brachial artery pulse were palpable,the recovery was 95%,and the improvement was obvious.At discharge 42 d after admission,there was no abnormality in fingertip activity during the follow-up period.CONCLUSION Arterial embolization in preterm infants requires an individualized treatment strategy combined with local anticoagulation and 2%nitroglycerin ointment for local tissue damage caused by arterial embolism in the upper limb.Continuous visualization of disease changes using image visualization increases the likelihood of a good outcome.展开更多
We report a case of a 7-year-old child who received a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for chemotherapy. He suffered from an unusual PICC fracture in vivo with pulmonary embolism after eight circles of ch...We report a case of a 7-year-old child who received a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for chemotherapy. He suffered from an unusual PICC fracture in vivo with pulmonary embolism after eight circles of chemotherapeutic agents administered. In this case report, we review the literatures for the underlying pathophysiology of this uncommon phenomenon. IV nurses should consider the possibility of the infusion dysfunction deriving from the PICC line fractured. Accurate tip catheter placement and specific care may reduce morbidity.展开更多
BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)have been increasingly applied worldwide owing to many advantages.Even with these advantages,the related complications should not be ignored,especially in neona...BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)have been increasingly applied worldwide owing to many advantages.Even with these advantages,the related complications should not be ignored,especially in neonates.The available evidence about PICC-related thrombosis was manifold,but the cardiac tamponade,an emergency and life-threatening complication,has been rarely reported.Early recognized cardiac tamponade by ultrasound may reduce mortality.CASE SUMMARY A neonate weighting 2.8 kg was born at 40 wk of gestation.He was admitted to the Surgery Intensive Care Unit due to suspected congenital megacolon.A PICC line was inserted via the left antecubital fossa for the administration of total parenteral nutrition.Three days later,the patient was still on total parenteral nutrition.Cardiac tamponade caused by PICC was found on ultrasound.The patient recovered spontaneously after an emergency pericardiocentesis.CONCLUSION Proficiency in the use of point-of-care ultrasound may save the life of patients,since it enables clinicians to treat patients faster,more accurately,and in a noninvasive way at the point of care.展开更多
Objective:The aim of our research was to study the incidence,clinical diagnosis and treatment of peripherally inserted central catheters(PICC)-related sepsis in breast cancer patients carrying PICC catheter for chemot...Objective:The aim of our research was to study the incidence,clinical diagnosis and treatment of peripherally inserted central catheters(PICC)-related sepsis in breast cancer patients carrying PICC catheter for chemotherapy.Methods:The data of the incidence,diagnosis and treatment of PICC-related sepsis in 215 cases of breast cancer patients carrying PICC catheter for chemotherapy in our hospital from August,2009 to September,2011 were analyzed retrospectively.Results:216 PICCs had been successfully applied in 215 cases of breast cancer patients and followed for a total of 19,109 catheter days,(median catheterization duration,88.9 days,range 1-212 days).Among those,3(1.39%) PICCs were removed respectively as a result of PICC-related sepsis in 29,73 and 108 catheter-days(median 70 d),with a rate of 0.16 per 1000 catheter-days.Conclusion:Chemotherapeutic treatment via PICC for breast cancer patients is one of the most secure and effective measures but there exists small number of cases in which PICC catheter related sepsis is possible.Careful observation of relevant symptoms and signs,early diagnosis and treatment,not relying completely on blood culture tests and timely removal of PICC catheter can be very effective in treating PICC-related sepsis in these patients.展开更多
Catheter fracture is a rare but serious complication of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). An adolescent patient was sent to Tianjin Medical University General Hospital (Tianjin, China) because the P...Catheter fracture is a rare but serious complication of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). An adolescent patient was sent to Tianjin Medical University General Hospital (Tianjin, China) because the PICC was fractured when removed by a nurse. Chest X-ray showed that the PICC fragment slid into the right pulmonary artery. Through emergency surgery, the remainder of the PICC was successfully retrieved by an interventional operation percutaneously via the right femoral vein. PICC fracture is less common and always without significant discomfort if not found timely, and it may lead to serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism, and even death. Thus, nurses, patients and their family members should pay enough attention to the daily maintenance of PICC and have a deep understanding of the reasons associated with PICC fracture as well as how to prevent it. Interventional operation is minimally invasive, which is a good choice for the removal of intravascular foreign bodies, leading to fewer complications and a good prognosis.展开更多
This investigation aims to explore the effects of stress conditions and rock cutting rates on hard rock fragmentation through indentation tests on a newly designed triaxial testing apparatus.This apparatus was designe...This investigation aims to explore the effects of stress conditions and rock cutting rates on hard rock fragmentation through indentation tests on a newly designed triaxial testing apparatus.This apparatus was designed to realize a triaxial loading and indentation test of cylindrical specimens using inserted tooth cutter.The boreability and crushing efficiency of granite rock was investigated by analyzing the change rules of the thrusting force,penetration depth,characteristics of chippings and failure patterns.Several quantitative indexes were used to evaluate rock boreability in this investigation.The granite rock samples all had a chiselled pit and a crushed rock core.Under initial stress conditions,only flat-shape chippings were stripped from the rock surface when the thrusting force reached 20 kN.The rock cutting special energy had a close correlation with the initial stress conditions and inserted tooth shape.Moreover,a thrusting force prediction model was proposed in this paper.The contribution of this study is that for the first time the influence mechanism of the initial triaxial stress conditions on rock fragmentation is investigated using an inserted tooth and the newly designed testing apparatus.This study has a crucial importance for practical underground hard rock crushing in geoengineering.展开更多
We investigated the influence of an inserted bar on the hopper flow experimentally.Three geometrical parameters,size of upper outlet D1,size of lower outlet D0,and the height of bar H,are variables here.With varying H...We investigated the influence of an inserted bar on the hopper flow experimentally.Three geometrical parameters,size of upper outlet D1,size of lower outlet D0,and the height of bar H,are variables here.With varying H we found three regimes:one transition from clogging to a surface flow and another transition from a surface flow to a dense flow.For the dense flow,the flow rate follows Beverloo’s law and there is a saturation of inclination of free surfaceθ.We plotted the velocity field and there is a uniform linear relation between the particle velocity and depth from the free surface.We also found that the required value of D_(1) to guarantee the connectivity of flow is little smaller than D_(0).For the transition from a surface flow to a dense flow,there is a jump of flow rate and the minimumθfor flowing is two degrees larger than the repose angle.展开更多
BACKGROUND Reports on peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC)placement in neonates with persistent left superior vena cava(PLSVC)are rare.The majority of PLSVC patients have no clinical symptoms or hemodynamic ch...BACKGROUND Reports on peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC)placement in neonates with persistent left superior vena cava(PLSVC)are rare.The majority of PLSVC patients have no clinical symptoms or hemodynamic changes,which are usually detected during cardiac catheterization,cardiac pacemaker implantation,or PICC placement.However,in neonates with PLSVC,PICC placement can be challenging.Here,we report PICC placement in eight neonates with PLSVC.CASE SUMMARY This article introduces the concept of the“TIMB”bundle.After PICC implantation,we found PLSVC in all eight patients.The key points of care regarding PICC placement in neonates with PLSVC included“TIMB”,where“T”indicates a reasonable choice of the catheterization time,“I”refers to a retrospective analysis of imaging data before catheterization,“M”refers to correct measurement of the body surface length,and“B”indicates that the tip of the PICC is placed in the middle and lower 1/3 of the left superior vena cava under the guidance of B-ultrasound.CONCLUSION“TIMB”is a bundle for PICC placement in neonates,especially for those with PLSVC.Using this new approach can improve the first-attempt success rate of PICC placement,reveal cardiovascular abnormalities in advance,allow the selection of different measurement methods reasonably according to the puncture site,and finally,improve the accuracy of catheter positioning through the use of B-ultrasound guidance.展开更多
AtERF4 (ethylene response factor) is a negative regulator in jasmonic acid mediated signal transduction pathway and ethylene mediated signal transduction pathway of Arabidopsis. It could respond to abscisic acid (...AtERF4 (ethylene response factor) is a negative regulator in jasmonic acid mediated signal transduction pathway and ethylene mediated signal transduction pathway of Arabidopsis. It could respond to abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene stimulus ATSYR1 gene encodes a syntaxin localizing at the plasma membrane in Arabidopsis, which can be induced by abiotic stress. To identify mutation lines for gene functional analysis, real-time PCR was employed to detect the expression level of AtERF4 and ATSYR1 in homozygous T-DNA insertion mutant line, respectively. Real-time PCR is a powerful tool which can be used to detect steady-state mRNA levels specifically, sensitively and reproducibly. Comparing to other forms of quantitative RT-PCR, the amount of amplified products can be detected by real-time PCR instantly and thus is a preferable alternative. In this study, RNA with T-DNA inserting into exon could be detected in AtERF4 knock-out mutation line. The results indicated that AtERF4 had been trucked in transcription level. On the other hand, T-DNA inserting into the promoter of gene ATSYR1 had no effect on reducing the expression level ofATSYR1 gene. Further molecular and phenotype studies now are ongoing to clarify the potential consequences of AtERF4 and ATSYR1 deficiency in Arabidopsis展开更多
The dependence of optical interface phonon on structure was demonstrated for thin layer inserted GaAlAs quantum well structures. It was found that the dispersion is sensitive to the Al-content of the inserted layer bu...The dependence of optical interface phonon on structure was demonstrated for thin layer inserted GaAlAs quantum well structures. It was found that the dispersion is sensitive to the Al-content of the inserted layer but almost independent of the position of the layer. The results showed that phonon modes can be modulated by adjusting the well parameters, which is useful for some device applications.展开更多
The recognized energy storage mechanism of neutral aqueous zinc-manganese batteries is the co-insertion/extrusion of H^(+) and Zn^(2+) ions.However,modulating the kinetics of a single H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ion is scarce,wh...The recognized energy storage mechanism of neutral aqueous zinc-manganese batteries is the co-insertion/extrusion of H^(+) and Zn^(2+) ions.However,modulating the kinetics of a single H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ion is scarce,which can provide meaningful insights into the energy storage mechanism of Zn ion batteries.Herein,a distinctive doubly electric field in-situ induced cationic anchoring of two-dimensional layered MnO_(2) is successfully constructed to modulate the insertion/extrusion of a single H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ion.As a result,regulating the intercalation of different metal ions can precisely achieve the accelerated induction for the individual H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ions intercalation/deintercalation.Moreover,the introduction of metal ions stabilizes the lattice distortion and alleviates the irreparable structural collapse,leading to an increase in the H^(+)/Zn^(2+) storage sites,efficiently diminishing the stagnation of the ordered structure and creating the more open channels,which is conducive to facilitating the diffusion of ions.This work delivers some innovative insights into pre-embedding strategies,and also serves as a precious reference for the cathode development of advanced aqueous batteries.展开更多
Aims: To audit the use and outcomes of using PICC lines in hemato-oncological patients. Objectives: To study the demographics of patients: ?studying the use of PICC line in hemato-oncological patients;studying the rat...Aims: To audit the use and outcomes of using PICC lines in hemato-oncological patients. Objectives: To study the demographics of patients: ?studying the use of PICC line in hemato-oncological patients;studying the rate of complications in PICC line;studying the cause of early removal of PICC line. Methods: All PICCs inserted in adult hemato-oncological patients in Hematology and Medical Oncology Department of Health Care Global (HCG) Hospital were studied prospectively, as per the proforma, till PICCs were removed or patient expired and the pattern of complications were noted. Results: Eighty-four PICCs were inserted over a period of initial nine months and followed for a total of 1 year with three months post insertion duration for a total of 10,868 catheter-days (mean of 129 days i.e. 4.3 months, range: 1 to 288 days). The most common indication for PICC was chemotherapy (100%). Among them 19 (22%) PICCs had complications and 12 were removed at the rate of 1.1/1000 PICC-days. Complications with haematologic malignancies were more as compared to those with solid tissue malignancies. Conclusions: Despite significant complication rates, PICCs are a relatively safe and cost effective mode of establishing central venous access.展开更多
The studypresents theHalfMax InsertionHeuristic (HMIH) as a novel approach to solving theTravelling SalesmanProblem (TSP). The goal is to outperform existing techniques such as the Farthest Insertion Heuristic (FIH) a...The studypresents theHalfMax InsertionHeuristic (HMIH) as a novel approach to solving theTravelling SalesmanProblem (TSP). The goal is to outperform existing techniques such as the Farthest Insertion Heuristic (FIH) andNearest Neighbour Heuristic (NNH). The paper discusses the limitations of current construction tour heuristics,focusing particularly on the significant margin of error in FIH. It then proposes HMIH as an alternative thatminimizes the increase in tour distance and includes more nodes. HMIH improves tour quality by starting withan initial tour consisting of a ‘minimum’ polygon and iteratively adding nodes using our novel Half Max routine.The paper thoroughly examines and compares HMIH with FIH and NNH via rigorous testing on standard TSPbenchmarks. The results indicate that HMIH consistently delivers superior performance, particularly with respectto tour cost and computational efficiency. HMIH’s tours were sometimes 16% shorter than those generated by FIHand NNH, showcasing its potential and value as a novel benchmark for TSP solutions. The study used statisticalmethods, including Friedman’s Non-parametric Test, to validate the performance of HMIH over FIH and NNH.This guarantees that the identified advantages are statistically significant and consistent in various situations. Thiscomprehensive analysis emphasizes the reliability and efficiency of the heuristic, making a compelling case for itsuse in solving TSP issues. The research shows that, in general, HMIH fared better than FIH in all cases studied,except for a few instances (pr439, eil51, and eil101) where FIH either performed equally or slightly better thanHMIH. HMIH’s efficiency is shown by its improvements in error percentage (δ) and goodness values (g) comparedto FIH and NNH. In the att48 instance, HMIH had an error rate of 6.3%, whereas FIH had 14.6% and NNH had20.9%, indicating that HMIH was closer to the optimal solution. HMIH consistently showed superior performanceacross many benchmarks, with lower percentage error and higher goodness values, suggesting a closer match tothe optimal tour costs. This study substantially contributes to combinatorial optimization by enhancing currentinsertion algorithms and presenting a more efficient solution for the Travelling Salesman Problem. It also createsnew possibilities for progress in heuristic design and optimization methodologies.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are commonly used in hospitalized patients with liver cancer for the administration of chemotherapy,nutrition,and other medications.However,PICC-related thrombosis is a serious complication that can lead to morbidity and mortality in this patient population.Several risk factors have been identified for the development of PICC-related thrombosis,including cancer type,stage,comorbidities,and catheter characteristics.Understanding these risk factors and developing a predictive model can help healthcare providers identify high-risk patients and implement preventive measures to reduce the incidence of thrombosis.AIM To analyze the influencing factors of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,construct a predictive model,and validate it.METHODS Clinical data of hospitalized patients with liver cancer admitted from January 2020 to December 2023 were collected.Thirty-five cases of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer were collected,and 220 patients who underwent PICC placement during the same period but did not develop PICC-related thrombosis were randomly selected as controls.A total of 255 samples were collected and used as the training set,and 77 cases were collected as the validation set in a 7:3 ratio.General patient information,case data,catheterization data,coagulation indicators,and Autar Thrombosis Risk Assessment Scale scores were analyzed.Univariate and multivariate unconditional logistic regression analyses were performed on relevant factors,and the value of combined indicators in predicting PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve analysis.RESULTS Univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences(P<0.05)in age,sex,Karnofsky performance status score(KPS),bedridden time,activities of daily living impairment,parenteral nutrition,catheter duration,distant metastasis,and bone marrow suppression between the thrombosis group and the non-thrombosis group.Other aspects had no statistically significant differences(P>0.05).Multivariate regression analysis showed that age≥60 years,KPS score≤50 points,parenteral nutrition,stage III to IV,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment were independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer(P<0.05).Catheter duration of 1-6 months and catheter duration>6 months were protective factors for PICC-related thrombosis(P<0.05).The predictive model for PICC-related thrombosis was obtained as follows:P predictive probability=[exp(Logit P)]/[1+exp(Logit P)],where Logit P=age×1.907+KPS score×2.045+parenteral nutrition×9.467+catheter duration×0.506+tumor-node-metastasis(TNM)staging×2.844+distant metastasis×2.065+bone marrow suppression×2.082+activities of daily living impairment×13.926.ROC curve analysis showed an area under the curve(AUC)of 0.827(95%CI:0.724-0.929,P<0.001),with a corresponding optimal cut-off value of 0.612,sensitivity of 0.755,and specificity of 0.857.Calibration curve analysis showed good consistency between the predicted occurrence of PICC-related thrombosis and actual occurrence(P>0.05).ROC analysis showed AUCs of 0.888 and 0.729 for the training and validation sets,respectively.CONCLUSION Age,KPS score,parenteral nutrition,TNM staging,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment are independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,while catheter duration is a protective factor for the disease.The predictive model has an AUC of 0.827,indicating high predictive accuracy and clinical value.
基金the Chongqing Medical Scientific Research Project(a joint project of the Chongqing Health Commission and Science and Technology Bureau),No.2020FYYX046。
文摘BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are an essential infusion route for oncology patients receiving intravenous treatments,but lower extremity veni-puncture is the preferred technique for patients with superior vena cava syndrome(SVCS).We report the case of a patient with a lower extremity PICC ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein,to indicate and verify PICC catheterisation in the lower extremity is safe and feasible.And hope to provide different per-spectives for clinical PICC venipuncture to get the attention of peers.CASE SUMMARY On 24 August 2022,a 58-year-old male was admitted to our department due to an intermittent cough persisting for over a month,which worsened 10 d prior.Imaging and laboratory investigations suggested the patient with pulmonary malignancy and SVCS.Chemotherapy was not an absolute contraindication in this patient.Lower extremity venipuncture is the preferred technique because administering upper extremity venous transfusion to patients with SVCS can exacerbate oedema in the head,neck,and upper extremities.The patient and his family were informed about the procedure,and informed consent was obtained.After successful puncture and prompt treatment,the patient was discharged,experiencing some relief from symptoms.CONCLUSION Inferior vena cava catheterisation is rare and important for cancer patients with SVCS,particularly in complex situations involving ectopic placement.
文摘Central venous catheterization(CVC) is an invasive procedure for administering fluids,nutrients,and drugs;monitoring central venous pressure;performing pulmonary artery catheterization;and placing transvenous pacemakers in intensive care units and all specialties,from anesthesia to emergency medicine,for the treatment of trauma and hemodynamically unstable pediatric and adult patients.[1,2]Complications have been observed in more than 15% of patients who underwent CVC.Mechanical,infectious,and thrombotic complications have been reported in 5%–19%,5%–26%,and 2%–26% of patients,respectively.[3] Malposition,on the other hand,is common in subclavian catheter insertion and is usually associated with an initially misplaced guidewire.[4]
基金supported by Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 10JJ2040, 11JJ3055)National Major Science and Technology Special Projects of China (Grant No.2012ZX04011-011)+1 种基金Postdoctoral Science Funded Project of China (GrantNo. 20110490261)Hunan Provincial 12th Five-year Plan Key Disciplines of China (Grant No. 2012-42)
文摘Currently, the modeling of cutting process mainly focuses on two aspects: one is the setup of the universal cutting force model that can be adapted to a broader cutting condition; the other is the setup of the exact cutting force model that can accurately reflect a true cutting process. However, there is little research on the prediction of chatter stablity in milling. Based on the generalized mathematical model of inserted cutters introduced by ENGIN, an improved geometrical, mechanical and dynamic model for the vast variety of inserted cutters widely used in engineering applications is presented, in which the average directional cutting force coefficients are obtained by means of a numerical approach, thus leading to an analytical determination of stability lobes diagram (SLD) on the axial depth of cut. A new kind of SLD on the radial depth of cut is also created to satisfy the special requirement of inserted cutter milling. The corresponding algorithms used for predicting cutting forces, vibrations, dimensional surface finish and stability lobes in inserted cutter milling under different cutting conditions are put forward. Thereafter, a dynamic simulation module of inserted cutter milling is implemented by using hybrid program of Matlab with Visual Basic. Verification tests are conducted on a vertical machine center for Aluminum alloy LC4 by using two different types of inserted cutters, and the effectiveness of the model and the algorithm is verified by the good agreement of simulation result with that of cutting tests under different cutting conditions. The proposed model can predict the cutting process accurately under a variety of cutting conditions, and a high efficient and chatter-free milling operation can be achieved by a cutting condition optimization in industry applications.
文摘Venous access devices are of pivotal importance for an increasing number of critically ill patients in a variety of disease states and in a variety of clinical settings(emergency, intensive care, surgery) and for different purposes(fluids or drugs infusions, parenteral nutrition, antibiotic therapy, hemodynamic monitoring, procedures of dialysis/apheresis). However, healthcare professionals are commonly worried about the possible consequences that may result using a central venous access device(CVAD)(mainly, bloodstream infections and thrombosis), both peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs) and centrally inserted central catheters(CICCs). This review aims to discuss indications, insertion techniques, and care of PICCs in critically ill patients. PICCs have many advantages over standard CICCs. First of all, their insertion is easy and safe-due to their placement into peripheral veins of the armand the advantage of a central location of catheter tip suitable for all osmolarity and p H solutions. Using the ultrasound-guidance for the PICC insertion, the risk of hemothorax and pneumothorax can be avoided, as wellas the possibility of primary malposition is very low. PICC placement is also appropriate to avoid post-procedural hemorrhage in patients with an abnormal coagulative state who need a CVAD. Some limits previously ascribed to PICCs(i.e., low flow rates, difficult central venous pressure monitoring, lack of safety for radio-diagnostic procedures, single-lumen) have delayed their start up in the intensive care units as common practice. Though, the recent development of power-injectable PICCs overcomes these technical limitations and PICCs have started to spread in critical care settings. Two important take-home messages may be drawn from this review. First, the incidence of complications varies depending on venous accesses and healthcare professionals should be aware of the different clinical performance as well as of the different risks associated with each type of CVAD(CICCs or PICCs). Second, an inappropriate CVAD choice and, particularly, an inadequate insertion technique are relevant-and often not recognized-potential risk factors for complications in critically ill patients. We strongly believe that all healthcare professionals involved in the choice, insertion or management of CVADs in critically ill patients should know all potential risk factors of complications. This knowledge may minimize complications and guarantee longevity to the CVAD optimizing the risk/benefit ratio of CVAD insertion and use. Proper management of CVADs in critical care saves lines and lives. Much evidence from the medical literature and from the clinical practice supports our belief that, compared to CICCs, the so-called power-injectable peripherally inserted central catheters are a good alternative choice in critical care.
文摘The microstructure and mechanical properties of cast inserted dies for automobile covering components were studied. The results show that the as-cast microstructures of cast inserted dies are composed of pearlite, martensite, bainite, and austenite; and that the annealed microstructure is granular pearlite. The mechanical properties of cast inserted dies approach that of forged inserted dies. The tensile strength is 855 MPa, the elongation is 16%, the impact toughness is 177 J/cm2, and the hardness after annealing and quenching are HRC 19 and HRC 60-62. In addition, the cast inserted dies have good hardenability. The depth of the hardening zone and the hardness after flame quenching satisfy the operating requirements. The cast inserted dies could completely replace the forged inserted dies for making the dies of automobile covering components.
文摘Implant insertion is an alternative to classical treatment with bridges after tooth extraction or traumatic tooth loss in the anterior and premolar region of the upper and lower jaw. Nevertheless both types of prosthetic treatment inhere major gingival aesthetic pitfalls by physiological vertical and horizontal resorption. Aim of the study was to investigate if the immediate insertion of root analogue single-stage implants and prosthetic treatment could prevent gingival recessions and bone resorption thus keeping the natural gingival aesthetics untouched. Between 2003 and 2006, 348 root analogue Q1-Implants (TRINON Karlsruhe GmbH/Germany) were inserted in 342 patients’s premolar and molar regions immediately after tooth extraction or traumatic tooth loss and treated with provisional resin crowns. The observation period with recurring 6-month clinical and radiographic check-ups was a minimum of 5 years. Of 348 inserted implants 4 (1.15%) were lost resulting in an overall success rate of 98.85%. In the first 12 weeks after surgery a mean recession of the buccal gingival margin of 0.2 mm (SD 0.34) could be detected, after final prosthetic treatment an overall mean recession of 0.2 mm (SD 0.13) within the survey period. Immediate implant insertion of root analogue single stage implants and immediate prosthetic treatment with provisional resin crowns after minimal invasive tooth extraction seems to be appropriate to prevent bone resorptions of the buccal alveolar crest and the recessions of the gingiva and papillae and thus suggests to be the preferable treatment to keep the natural gingival and papillary aesthetics untouched preventing further traumatic surgical gingival reconstructions.
文摘BACKGROUND Extremely premature infants have poor vascular conditions.Operators often choose deep veins such as the femoral vein and axillary vein to peripherally insert central catheters,and these vessels are often accompanied by arteries;thus,it is easy to mistakenly enter the artery.CASE SUMMARY The case of an extremely premature infant(born at gestational age 28+3)in whom the left upper extremity artery was accidentally entered during peripheral puncture of the central venous catheter is reported.On the 19th day of hospitalization,the index finger,middle finger and ring finger of the left hand were rosy,the left radial artery and brachial artery pulse were palpable,the recovery was 95%,and the improvement was obvious.At discharge 42 d after admission,there was no abnormality in fingertip activity during the follow-up period.CONCLUSION Arterial embolization in preterm infants requires an individualized treatment strategy combined with local anticoagulation and 2%nitroglycerin ointment for local tissue damage caused by arterial embolism in the upper limb.Continuous visualization of disease changes using image visualization increases the likelihood of a good outcome.
文摘We report a case of a 7-year-old child who received a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for chemotherapy. He suffered from an unusual PICC fracture in vivo with pulmonary embolism after eight circles of chemotherapeutic agents administered. In this case report, we review the literatures for the underlying pathophysiology of this uncommon phenomenon. IV nurses should consider the possibility of the infusion dysfunction deriving from the PICC line fractured. Accurate tip catheter placement and specific care may reduce morbidity.
文摘BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)have been increasingly applied worldwide owing to many advantages.Even with these advantages,the related complications should not be ignored,especially in neonates.The available evidence about PICC-related thrombosis was manifold,but the cardiac tamponade,an emergency and life-threatening complication,has been rarely reported.Early recognized cardiac tamponade by ultrasound may reduce mortality.CASE SUMMARY A neonate weighting 2.8 kg was born at 40 wk of gestation.He was admitted to the Surgery Intensive Care Unit due to suspected congenital megacolon.A PICC line was inserted via the left antecubital fossa for the administration of total parenteral nutrition.Three days later,the patient was still on total parenteral nutrition.Cardiac tamponade caused by PICC was found on ultrasound.The patient recovered spontaneously after an emergency pericardiocentesis.CONCLUSION Proficiency in the use of point-of-care ultrasound may save the life of patients,since it enables clinicians to treat patients faster,more accurately,and in a noninvasive way at the point of care.
文摘Objective:The aim of our research was to study the incidence,clinical diagnosis and treatment of peripherally inserted central catheters(PICC)-related sepsis in breast cancer patients carrying PICC catheter for chemotherapy.Methods:The data of the incidence,diagnosis and treatment of PICC-related sepsis in 215 cases of breast cancer patients carrying PICC catheter for chemotherapy in our hospital from August,2009 to September,2011 were analyzed retrospectively.Results:216 PICCs had been successfully applied in 215 cases of breast cancer patients and followed for a total of 19,109 catheter days,(median catheterization duration,88.9 days,range 1-212 days).Among those,3(1.39%) PICCs were removed respectively as a result of PICC-related sepsis in 29,73 and 108 catheter-days(median 70 d),with a rate of 0.16 per 1000 catheter-days.Conclusion:Chemotherapeutic treatment via PICC for breast cancer patients is one of the most secure and effective measures but there exists small number of cases in which PICC catheter related sepsis is possible.Careful observation of relevant symptoms and signs,early diagnosis and treatment,not relying completely on blood culture tests and timely removal of PICC catheter can be very effective in treating PICC-related sepsis in these patients.
文摘Catheter fracture is a rare but serious complication of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). An adolescent patient was sent to Tianjin Medical University General Hospital (Tianjin, China) because the PICC was fractured when removed by a nurse. Chest X-ray showed that the PICC fragment slid into the right pulmonary artery. Through emergency surgery, the remainder of the PICC was successfully retrieved by an interventional operation percutaneously via the right femoral vein. PICC fracture is less common and always without significant discomfort if not found timely, and it may lead to serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism, and even death. Thus, nurses, patients and their family members should pay enough attention to the daily maintenance of PICC and have a deep understanding of the reasons associated with PICC fracture as well as how to prevent it. Interventional operation is minimally invasive, which is a good choice for the removal of intravascular foreign bodies, leading to fewer complications and a good prognosis.
基金The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from Natural Science Research Project of Universities in Anhui Province(No.KJ2021A0463)Scientific Research Startup Fund for introduced talents of Anhui University of Science and Technology,and Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province(No.2108085QE208).
文摘This investigation aims to explore the effects of stress conditions and rock cutting rates on hard rock fragmentation through indentation tests on a newly designed triaxial testing apparatus.This apparatus was designed to realize a triaxial loading and indentation test of cylindrical specimens using inserted tooth cutter.The boreability and crushing efficiency of granite rock was investigated by analyzing the change rules of the thrusting force,penetration depth,characteristics of chippings and failure patterns.Several quantitative indexes were used to evaluate rock boreability in this investigation.The granite rock samples all had a chiselled pit and a crushed rock core.Under initial stress conditions,only flat-shape chippings were stripped from the rock surface when the thrusting force reached 20 kN.The rock cutting special energy had a close correlation with the initial stress conditions and inserted tooth shape.Moreover,a thrusting force prediction model was proposed in this paper.The contribution of this study is that for the first time the influence mechanism of the initial triaxial stress conditions on rock fragmentation is investigated using an inserted tooth and the newly designed testing apparatus.This study has a crucial importance for practical underground hard rock crushing in geoengineering.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11705256 and 11905272)National Postdoctoral Program for Innovative Talents,China(Grant No.BX201700258)West Light Foundation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.2018-98)。
文摘We investigated the influence of an inserted bar on the hopper flow experimentally.Three geometrical parameters,size of upper outlet D1,size of lower outlet D0,and the height of bar H,are variables here.With varying H we found three regimes:one transition from clogging to a surface flow and another transition from a surface flow to a dense flow.For the dense flow,the flow rate follows Beverloo’s law and there is a saturation of inclination of free surfaceθ.We plotted the velocity field and there is a uniform linear relation between the particle velocity and depth from the free surface.We also found that the required value of D_(1) to guarantee the connectivity of flow is little smaller than D_(0).For the transition from a surface flow to a dense flow,there is a jump of flow rate and the minimumθfor flowing is two degrees larger than the repose angle.
基金Supported by the 2017 Scientific Research Project of Sichuan Health and Family Planning Commission,No.18PJ215.
文摘BACKGROUND Reports on peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC)placement in neonates with persistent left superior vena cava(PLSVC)are rare.The majority of PLSVC patients have no clinical symptoms or hemodynamic changes,which are usually detected during cardiac catheterization,cardiac pacemaker implantation,or PICC placement.However,in neonates with PLSVC,PICC placement can be challenging.Here,we report PICC placement in eight neonates with PLSVC.CASE SUMMARY This article introduces the concept of the“TIMB”bundle.After PICC implantation,we found PLSVC in all eight patients.The key points of care regarding PICC placement in neonates with PLSVC included“TIMB”,where“T”indicates a reasonable choice of the catheterization time,“I”refers to a retrospective analysis of imaging data before catheterization,“M”refers to correct measurement of the body surface length,and“B”indicates that the tip of the PICC is placed in the middle and lower 1/3 of the left superior vena cava under the guidance of B-ultrasound.CONCLUSION“TIMB”is a bundle for PICC placement in neonates,especially for those with PLSVC.Using this new approach can improve the first-attempt success rate of PICC placement,reveal cardiovascular abnormalities in advance,allow the selection of different measurement methods reasonably according to the puncture site,and finally,improve the accuracy of catheter positioning through the use of B-ultrasound guidance.
基金Supported by National High Technology Program (2008ZX08004-002, 2009ZX08009-032B)Key Research Plan of Heilongjiang Province (GA06B103)Education Department Plan of Heilongjiang Province(11521021, 1152024)
文摘AtERF4 (ethylene response factor) is a negative regulator in jasmonic acid mediated signal transduction pathway and ethylene mediated signal transduction pathway of Arabidopsis. It could respond to abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene stimulus ATSYR1 gene encodes a syntaxin localizing at the plasma membrane in Arabidopsis, which can be induced by abiotic stress. To identify mutation lines for gene functional analysis, real-time PCR was employed to detect the expression level of AtERF4 and ATSYR1 in homozygous T-DNA insertion mutant line, respectively. Real-time PCR is a powerful tool which can be used to detect steady-state mRNA levels specifically, sensitively and reproducibly. Comparing to other forms of quantitative RT-PCR, the amount of amplified products can be detected by real-time PCR instantly and thus is a preferable alternative. In this study, RNA with T-DNA inserting into exon could be detected in AtERF4 knock-out mutation line. The results indicated that AtERF4 had been trucked in transcription level. On the other hand, T-DNA inserting into the promoter of gene ATSYR1 had no effect on reducing the expression level ofATSYR1 gene. Further molecular and phenotype studies now are ongoing to clarify the potential consequences of AtERF4 and ATSYR1 deficiency in Arabidopsis
文摘The dependence of optical interface phonon on structure was demonstrated for thin layer inserted GaAlAs quantum well structures. It was found that the dispersion is sensitive to the Al-content of the inserted layer but almost independent of the position of the layer. The results showed that phonon modes can be modulated by adjusting the well parameters, which is useful for some device applications.
基金supported by the Opening Project of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Power SourcesGuizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects(QKHJC–ZK[2021]YB057)+2 种基金the Growth Project of Young Scientific and Technological Talents in Colleges and Universities of Guizhou Province(QKHJCKYZ[2021]252)the Reward and Subsidy Fund Project of Guizhou Education University(Z20210108)the Doctoral Program of Guizhou Education University(2019BS022)。
文摘The recognized energy storage mechanism of neutral aqueous zinc-manganese batteries is the co-insertion/extrusion of H^(+) and Zn^(2+) ions.However,modulating the kinetics of a single H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ion is scarce,which can provide meaningful insights into the energy storage mechanism of Zn ion batteries.Herein,a distinctive doubly electric field in-situ induced cationic anchoring of two-dimensional layered MnO_(2) is successfully constructed to modulate the insertion/extrusion of a single H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ion.As a result,regulating the intercalation of different metal ions can precisely achieve the accelerated induction for the individual H^(+) or Zn^(2+) ions intercalation/deintercalation.Moreover,the introduction of metal ions stabilizes the lattice distortion and alleviates the irreparable structural collapse,leading to an increase in the H^(+)/Zn^(2+) storage sites,efficiently diminishing the stagnation of the ordered structure and creating the more open channels,which is conducive to facilitating the diffusion of ions.This work delivers some innovative insights into pre-embedding strategies,and also serves as a precious reference for the cathode development of advanced aqueous batteries.
文摘Aims: To audit the use and outcomes of using PICC lines in hemato-oncological patients. Objectives: To study the demographics of patients: ?studying the use of PICC line in hemato-oncological patients;studying the rate of complications in PICC line;studying the cause of early removal of PICC line. Methods: All PICCs inserted in adult hemato-oncological patients in Hematology and Medical Oncology Department of Health Care Global (HCG) Hospital were studied prospectively, as per the proforma, till PICCs were removed or patient expired and the pattern of complications were noted. Results: Eighty-four PICCs were inserted over a period of initial nine months and followed for a total of 1 year with three months post insertion duration for a total of 10,868 catheter-days (mean of 129 days i.e. 4.3 months, range: 1 to 288 days). The most common indication for PICC was chemotherapy (100%). Among them 19 (22%) PICCs had complications and 12 were removed at the rate of 1.1/1000 PICC-days. Complications with haematologic malignancies were more as compared to those with solid tissue malignancies. Conclusions: Despite significant complication rates, PICCs are a relatively safe and cost effective mode of establishing central venous access.
基金the Centre of Excellence in Mobile and e-Services,the University of Zululand,Kwadlangezwa,South Africa.
文摘The studypresents theHalfMax InsertionHeuristic (HMIH) as a novel approach to solving theTravelling SalesmanProblem (TSP). The goal is to outperform existing techniques such as the Farthest Insertion Heuristic (FIH) andNearest Neighbour Heuristic (NNH). The paper discusses the limitations of current construction tour heuristics,focusing particularly on the significant margin of error in FIH. It then proposes HMIH as an alternative thatminimizes the increase in tour distance and includes more nodes. HMIH improves tour quality by starting withan initial tour consisting of a ‘minimum’ polygon and iteratively adding nodes using our novel Half Max routine.The paper thoroughly examines and compares HMIH with FIH and NNH via rigorous testing on standard TSPbenchmarks. The results indicate that HMIH consistently delivers superior performance, particularly with respectto tour cost and computational efficiency. HMIH’s tours were sometimes 16% shorter than those generated by FIHand NNH, showcasing its potential and value as a novel benchmark for TSP solutions. The study used statisticalmethods, including Friedman’s Non-parametric Test, to validate the performance of HMIH over FIH and NNH.This guarantees that the identified advantages are statistically significant and consistent in various situations. Thiscomprehensive analysis emphasizes the reliability and efficiency of the heuristic, making a compelling case for itsuse in solving TSP issues. The research shows that, in general, HMIH fared better than FIH in all cases studied,except for a few instances (pr439, eil51, and eil101) where FIH either performed equally or slightly better thanHMIH. HMIH’s efficiency is shown by its improvements in error percentage (δ) and goodness values (g) comparedto FIH and NNH. In the att48 instance, HMIH had an error rate of 6.3%, whereas FIH had 14.6% and NNH had20.9%, indicating that HMIH was closer to the optimal solution. HMIH consistently showed superior performanceacross many benchmarks, with lower percentage error and higher goodness values, suggesting a closer match tothe optimal tour costs. This study substantially contributes to combinatorial optimization by enhancing currentinsertion algorithms and presenting a more efficient solution for the Travelling Salesman Problem. It also createsnew possibilities for progress in heuristic design and optimization methodologies.