bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring height and weight as part of routine mammographic screening for breast cancer
Authors: Darcey Ellie , Ambati Ravi , Lund Helen , Redfern Andrew , Saunders Christobel , Thompson Sandra , Wylie Elizabeth , Stone Jennifer
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Body mass index is a strong predictor of post-menopausal breast cancer risk and (negatively) confounds the association between mammographic breast density and breast cancer risk; however, height and weight are not typically measured as part of routine mammographic screening. This study piloted voluntary height and weight measurement within the BreastScreen Western Australia (WA) programme, and assessed trial participation.

Methods

From February 2016 to January 2018, 204,429 women attending BreastScreen WA were invited to have their height and weight measured and recorded as part of their routine screening mammogram. Descriptive data analysis was used to assess pilot participation rates by available screening data.

Results

Of the 204,429 patients who attended BreastScreen WA during the pilot, 76.35% (156,072) agreed to have their height and weight measured. Pilot participation rates were significantly lower in those patients with disabilities (RR: 0.626; 95% CI: 0.600, 0.653), those who spoke a language other than English at home (RR: 0.876; 95% CI: 0.867, 0.885), and those who identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (RR: 0.829; 95% CI: 0.807, 0.852). Pilot participation decreased over time from 88.9% in the first three months to 55.5% in the last month, due to lessening of support from BreastScreen staff.

Conclusion

Measuring height and weight at the time of routine mammographic screening is feasible, although logistical issues, particularly the added time/effort required of support staff, should be considered. BreastScreen WA has since decided to collect voluntary self-reported height and weight data as routine screening policy.
Elastoplastic Deformation in an Orthotropic Spherical Shell Subjected to a Temperature Gradient
Authors: Thakur Pankaj , Sethi Monika
Published: July 2019

The objective of this research paper is to present the study of elastoplastic deformation in an orthotropic spherical shell subjected to a temperature gradient by using Seth’s transition theory. Seth’s transition theory includes classical macroscopic solving problems in plasticity, creep and relaxation and assumes semi-empirical yield conditions. The nonlinear transition regions through which yielding occurs are neglected. Apparently, transition theory is used to solve problems in a general way, employing the concept of generalized strain measure and asymptotic solution at the transition points of differential equations. The problems of elastoplastic and creep transitions are solved through principal stress and principal stress difference and in consideration of the nonlinear part of the transition.
Mapping visions of improvisation pedagogy in music education research
Authors: Siljamäki Eeva , Kanellopoulos Panagiotis A.
Published: July 2019

This systematic literature review aims to identify and critically examine the prevailing general trends of music education research that addresses issues of improvisation from 1985 to 2015. The study examined the main features of studies with impact that focus on musical improvisation and have been published in peer-reviewed music education journals. Data were organised on the basis of the following: 1) General publication features; 2) Topic; 3) Methodological approach; 4) Participant features; 5) Type of improvisation; 6) Definition of improvisation; 7) Findings; 8) Suggestions for practice. The study also takes a close look at the construction of the discourses through which improvisation has been framed in the field of music education, providing insights on how such discourses create particular pedagogical visions of improvisation. To this end, we have created a map of the different visions of improvisation pedagogy that the studied works point towards. These visions have been clustered in the following five categories: (i) from rupture of certainties to creative problematisation; (ii) return to the “natural” beginning—in search of humanness; (iii) improvisation as a learning tool; (iv) conserving and enlivening traditions; (v) improvisation as an impetus for creativity. The map proposed in this study is meant as a possible representation of the general trends that underpin music education research focusing on improvisation. This map can also be seen as a “tool” through which music educators can situate their practice and reflect on their particular ways of working with improvisation, possibly envisioning alternative ways forward.
Material words: The aesthetic grammar of Toraja textiles, carvings, and ritual language
Authors: Donzelli Aurora
Published: July 2019

This article examines the intersections between ritual speech, woodcarving, and painted sacred cloths among the Toraja of upland Sulawesi, Indonesia. The author argues that the longstanding division between studies of speechmaking and material culture has obfuscated significant overlaps between what in fact are related systems of semiotic expressions in Indonesia and beyond. By bringing within a single analytic field the forms of ritual speech, textiles, and woodcarving she documented during long-term intermittent fieldwork in Sulawesi (2002–2018), the author highlights fundamental commonalities in how these different semiotic codes operate and in the local conceptions of authorship and craftsmanship. She shows how key aspects of Toraja vernacular semiotics, aesthetics, and hermeneutics are embedded in a materialist ideology of language and suggests that a joint approach to meaning-making practice across different modalities, channels, and media may further our understanding of Indonesian figurative languages and help delineate the larger cultural poetics underlying Austronesian artistic productions.
Investigation of the dynamic local skidding behaviour of rollers in cylindrical roller bearings
Authors: Tu Wenbing , Luo Ya , Yu Wennian , Yu Yinquan
Published: July 2019

Skidding has a great influence on the reliability and the life of rolling element bearings. The previous research of bearing skidding mainly focussed on the gross skidding of bearings under severe conditions. However, the local skidding of rolling element also exists and cannot be ignored when bearing normally runs at steady state. In this paper, considering the discontinuous contact between the roller and the cage, the Hertz contact between the roller and races, lubrication, centrifugal effects and the cage pocket clearance, a nonlinear dynamic model is established to investigate the local skidding behaviour of a roller in cylindrical roller bearings. The equations of the dynamic model are solved by the fourth-order Runge–Kutta algorithm and verified by comparing simulation results with the published experimental data. The results show that the local skidding of the roller still noticeably exists in bearings even when the gross skidding can be ignored, especially on the inner raceway. The local skidding at the entry of the loaded zone may cause the smearing on the raceway surface. However, it can be found that the probability of the local skidding of the roller will be decreased by increasing radial load and reducing the bearing rotational speed. The cage pocket clearance would induce violent fluctuations on the roller rotational angular velocity as well as on the sliding velocity. Furthermore, it can generate extraordinary impact forces between the rollers and the cage. Thus, the cage pocket clearance should be carefully considered in the design of bearings.
Policy complexity and legislative duration in the European Union
Authors: Hurka Steffen , Haag Maximilian
Published: July 2019

This article investigates the impact of policy complexity on the duration of legislative negotiations in the European Union employing survival analysis. We conceptualize policy complexity as a three-dimensional construct encompassing structural, linguistic and relational components. Building on this conceptual framework, we measure the complexity of 889 Commission proposals published under the ordinary legislative procedure between 2009 and 2018. Controlling for institutional and political drivers of legislative duration identified by previous studies, we show that different types of policy complexity influence the duration of the decision-making process in the European Union to varying degrees, at different points in time and partially in unexpected ways. On a general level, our study highlights that developing a better understanding of the origins and consequences of policy complexity in the European Union is a key task for scholars of European integration.
Who Benefits from the Past? The Process of Cultural Heritage Management in the Field of Animation in Poland (The Case of the Se-Ma-For Film Studio in Łódź)
Authors: Ciszewska Ewa
Published: July 2019

With a view to studying the social and institutional practices related to the post-1989 approaches to film animation under socialism, this article addresses the transformation of the state-owned Se-Ma-For Film Studio in Łódź and the private company that later took over its name (the Se-Ma-For Film Company). The chronological scope of the study extends from 1989 to 2016; however, to identify the impact of the 1989 watershed on the animation market in Poland, modalities of operation of animation film studios in state-socialism era are presented. This article addresses the question of which heritage communities work with the memory of the animated film studio in Łódź, as well as the issue of the ways in which cultural heritage management processes have taken place. The article makes the case that the approving attitude towards the organizational and aesthetic values of Poland’s film industry under socialism has become a characteristic feature of strategies leading to the cultural heritage management of Polish film animation from this period.

In conclusion, the author asserts that the commercialization of the cultural heritage of the former state-owned studio benefited the economic and symbolic capital of two institutions, the Museum of Cinema and the Se-Ma-For Film Company, as well as the city of Łódź, which branded itself as a city of film.
Healthcare-associated infections and compliance of hand hygiene among healthcare workers in a tertiary health facility, southwest Nigeria
Authors: Irek Emmanuel O , Aliyu Alhaji A , Dahiru Tukur , Obadare Temitope O , Aboderin Aaron O
Published: July 2019

Introduction:

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are threats in healthcare settings contributing to increased morbidity, mortality and antimicrobial resistance worldwide. Hand hygiene (HH) is the simplest and most important single intervention to reduce HAIs.

Aims/objectives:

This study sought to determine rates of HAIs as well as compliance of HH among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 227 HCWs (59 doctors, 129 nurses and 39 ward attendants) selected by multistage sampling across 10 hospital wards. Electronic interviewer-administered questionnaire, HH compliance checklist and point prevalence of HAI were done using World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention toolkits, respectively.

Results:

Only 20.33% (n = 12) of doctors, 3.88% (n = 5) of nurses and 2.56% (n = 1) of ward attendants had good knowledge of HH (χ2 = 22.22, P value = 0.01). Among doctors, 11.86% (n = 7), 6.98% (n = 9) of nurses and 2.56% (n = 1) of ward attendants had positive perception towards HH (χ2 = 7.87, P value = 0.25). Of the 174 opportunities for HH observed, compliance rates were 42.37%, 55.81% and 68.97% among doctors, nurses and ward attendants, respectively. Point prevalence of HAI was 16.38%.

Discussion:

Good knowledge and positive perception about HH were uncommon among doctors, nurses and ward attendants. However, ward attendants had the highest compliance to HH. There was a high prevalence of HAIs in this institution.
Does periodontitis represent a risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: de Oliveira Ferreira Railson , de Brito Silva Raíra , Magno Marcela Baraúna , Carvalho Almeida Anna Paula Costa Ponte Sousa , Fagundes Nathália Carolina Fernandes , Maia Lucianne Cople , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: July 2019

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of dental supporting tissues (gingiva, periodontal ligament, and bone) and it has been suggested as a possible etiology for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this systematic review, we aim to verify if periodontitis represents a risk factor for RA. Electronic databases were consulted until March 2018 considering eligibility criteria focusing on: (P, participants) adults; (E, exposure) with periodontitis; (C, comparison) without periodontitis; and (O, outcome) development of RA. Quality assessment of studies and risk-of-bias evaluation were also performed. To undertake a quantitative analysis, the number of persons with RA and a total number of participants for the case group (with periodontitis) and control group (without periodontitis) were used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 3888 articles were identified, and nine studies were considered eligible. Seven of 9 articles suggested an association among diseases by the common pro-inflammatory profiles. The pooled analysis of 3 articles showed a higher RA prevalence for persons with periodontitis ( n = 1177) than controls ( n = 254) (OR 1.97; CI 1.68–2.31; p < 0.00001). However, considerable heterogeneity among studies was verified (I2 = 96%, p < 0.00001). Periodontitis may represent a risk factor for RA by heredity, bacterial infection, and the pro-inflammatory profile shared between both diseases. Although most of the elective studies report an association between periodontitis and RA, the quantitative analysis showed a high heterogeneity, leading to the need for further studies.
Morphological classification of the tubercle of insertion of the transverse atlantal ligament: A computer tomography–based anatomical study of 200 subjects
Authors: Mueller Kyle , MacConnell Ashley , Berkowitz Frank , Voyadzis Jean-Marc
Published: July 2019

Background and purpose

The atlantal tubercle is the attachment point of the transverse atlantal ligament, the main stabilizer of the atlantoaxial complex. No system of classification of the tubercle exists in the literature. We aimed to develop a morphologically based classification system of the atlantal tubercle to aid clinicians who deal with craniocervical pathology.

Materials and methods

A retrospective review of computed tomography (CT) scans of the cervical spine was performed. The morphology of the atlantal tubercle was classified into four variants: rounded (classical), pointed, flattened, and hypoplastic. Age, presence, and morphological type were recorded.

Results

A total of 200 CT scans were identified and reviewed. The tubercle was present bilaterally in all patients. Patients were equally distributed over various age ranges. The following morphological types were recorded: rounded (227/400; 56.8%), pointed (13/400; 3.3%), flattened (126; 31.5%), and hypoplastic (34/400; 8.5%). The same type was seen bilaterally in 68% (135/200) of patients. Morphological types appear equally on the right and left side of the atlas.

Conclusions

The first morphologically based classification system of the atlantal tubercle utilizing CT is presented. Morphology type, especially hypoplastic type, may confer an increased risk for subsequent need for posterior fusion.
The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain of Dental Workers Employed in Slovenia
Authors: Šćepanović Darija , Klavs Tina , Verdenik Ivan , Oblak Čedomir
Published: July 2019

Work-related musculoskeletal (MS) disorders are considered one of the most frequent occupational diseases among dental workers. Dental work consists of static, demanding tasks that involve repeated gripping of small-sized instruments. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of MS pain, the areas of pain, and the risk factors for MS pain in dental workers. A self-administrated questionnaire was used as a data collection instrument for dental workers who voluntarily responded to the invitation. To determine the prevalence and severity location of MS pain, the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire was administered among 87 dental workers, with a total of 79.8%, who reported at least one MS complaint. MS pain occurred in 82.6% of general dentists, 75.0% of dental specialists, 66.7% of dental assistants, and 33.3% of dental technicians. Pain most frequently occurred in the neck (60.7%), upper back (52.4%), right shoulder (44.0%), lower back (41.7%), hips/buttocks (29.8%), and the right wrist (23.8%). The prevalence of pain among dental workers could be reduced by ergonomic working environment, regular breaks, maintenance of health, and performing specific exercises designed to dental workers.
Health Promotion in Volunteer Firefighters: Assessing Knowledge of Risk for Developing Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Palmer Althea S. , Yoos Jessica L.
Published: July 2019

Cardiac events are strongly associated with line of duty deaths among firefighters. Among a convenience sample ( N = 14) of volunteer firefighters, a questionnaire assessed their knowledge of cardiovascular disease before and after cardiovascular health training using evidence-based guidelines. The questionnaire explored their pattern of physical activity, awareness of their lipid levels, body mass index, as well as signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Thereafter, an educational health program was conducted. Firefighters demonstrated an increase in knowledge post training, in that they were able to identify cardiovascular risk factors and personal determinants of cardiovascular disease. Occupational health providers are encouraged to educate firefighters about the seriousness of cardiovascular disease, and to implement measures to promote better lifestyle behaviors.
Occupational Characteristics of Low Back Pain Among Standing Workers in a Japanese Manufacturing Company
Authors: Inoue Gen , Uchida Kentaro , Miyagi Masayuki , Saito Wataru , Nakazawa Toshiyuki , Imura Takayuki , Shirasawa Eiki , Akazawa Tsutomu , Orita Sumihisa , Inage Kazuhide , Takaso Masashi , Ohtori Seiji
Published: July 2019

Low back pain (LBP) is a major public health problem that adversely affects the quality of life (QOL) of workers. The etiology of LBP is considered to be multi-factorial with individual, physical, and psychosocial factors contributing to its development and persistence. Although prevention of LBP in workers in the workplace is very important, only a small number of studies have assessed the risk factors and epidemiology of LBP among Japanese factory workers who stand as part of their job. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of LBP in 691 factory employees who conducted their work while standing. Health-related QOL was evaluated using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ) to quantify the severity of LBP with the aim of identifying risk factors for LBP among workers who stand as part of their work in an electronics manufacturing company. We observed that the prevalence of LBP lasting for at least 48 hours within a week was 20.0% among participants, with female employees and those with a prior history of LBP having a significantly increased risk of developing LBP. The distribution of the RDQ score showed a negative regression curve among the employees, which was different from the normal distribution pattern reported previously in Japanese patients with LBP. These findings suggest that prolonged standing among factory workers poses an increased risk for LBP.
Learning to walk: Modeling transportation mode choice distribution through neural networks
Authors: Aschwanden Gideon DPA , Wijnands Jasper S , Thompson Jason , Nice Kerry A , Zhao Haifeng , Stevenson Mark
Published: July 2019

Transportation mode distribution has a large implication on the resilience, economic output, social cost of cities and the health of urban residents. Recent advances in artificial intelligence and the availability of remote sensing data have opened up opportunities for bottom-up modeling techniques that allow understanding of how subtle differences in the urban fabric can impact transportation mode share distribution. This project presents a novel neural network-based modeling technique capable of predicting transportation mode distribution. Trained with millions of images labeled with information from a georeferenced transportation survey, the resulting model is able to infer transportation mode share with high accuracy ( R2 = 0.58) from satellite images alone. Additionally, this method can disaggregate data in areas where only aggregated information is available and infer transportation mode share in areas without underlying information. This work demonstrates a new and objective method to evaluate the impact of the urban fabric on transportation mode share. The methodology is robust and can be adapted for cases around the world as well as deployed to evaluate the impact of new developments on the transportation mode choice.
Successful treatment of large cavity esophageal disruptions with transluminal washout and endoscopic vacuum therapy: a report of two cases
Authors: Walsh Leonard T. , Loloi Justin , Manzo Carl E. , Mathew Abraham , Maranki Jennifer , Dye Charles E. , Levenick John M. , Taylor Matthew D. , Moyer Matthew T.
Published: July 2019

Acute, high-grade esophageal perforation and postoperative leak after esophagogastrostomy are associated with high morbidity and mortality due to the development of mediastinitis and thoracic contamination. Endoscopic vacuum therapy has proven to be a feasible, safe therapy for management of esophageal wall defects, but with limited success. We describe a retrospective single-center analysis of two patients who underwent endoscopic vacuum therapy for significant esophageal disruptions with a median cross-sectional diameter of 10.7 cm. The technique involved the use of a standard upper video endoscope, nasogastric tube, and vacuum-assisted closure dressing kit, with endoscopic placement of a polyurethane sponge and nasogastric tube assembly into the mediastinal or thoracic cavity. Serial washout and debridement were performed prior to each sponge insertion. Data were collected on indication, size of the cavities, time to intervention, number of procedures, time to resolution, outcomes, and adverse events. Two patients underwent therapy with a mean age of 69.5. The median size of the collections via longest cross-sectional diameter was 10.7 cm. The average number of endoscopic vacuum therapy performed was six and average duration of therapy was 49 days. Complete resolution was achieved in both patients. One patient died 6 weeks later due to severe sepsis from aspiration pneumonia. Endoscopic washout and debridement followed by endoscopic vacuum therapy can be effective for large, even multiple, thoracic and mediastinal contaminations following esophageal perforation and gastroesopagheal anastomotic dehiscence and leaks in appropriately selected patients.
Prediction or interpretability?
Authors: Nembrini Stefano
Published: July 2019

The journal published a review of the literature on recursive partition in epidemiological research comparing two decision tree methods: classification and regression trees (CARTs) and conditional inference trees (CITs).
There are two sources of potential confusion in the paper for readers: one lies in the definition and the comparison of CITs and CARTs, while the other is more general and it refers to the use of hyper-parameters and their tuning through resampling techniques.
Cervicogenic headache treated by acupuncture based on jin theory: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dong Youkang , Guo Taipin , Xu Lei , Wang Chunlin , Wen Guanfen , Zhao Zhiyong , Duan Lianhai , Zou Mei , Xiang Yong , Wang Shu
Published: July 2019

Background

Numerous randomized trials involving acupuncture treatment for cervicogenic headache (CEH) have been conducted in recent years, but the evidence for its effectiveness is not clear. Hence, we designed a randomized trial to evaluate the efficacy and advantages of acupuncture for treating CEH.

Design

This is a parallel-design, two-arm, patient-assessor blinded, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. A total of 166 patients with CEH aged from 18 to 70 will be recruited and assigned randomly into a jin acupuncture group and a pseudo acupuncture group at a 1:1 ratio; they will receive 12 sessions of real acupuncture and sham acupuncture for 4 weeks, respectively, during the study. The primary outcomes are pain degree (PD) and pain rate (PR) calculated by the PainVision analyzer, as well as parameters detected by surface electromyography (SEMG). The secondary outcomes will be measured with the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), range of motion (ROM) of the neck, the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ), the 36-item short-form Health Survey (SF-36), the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Clinical assessments will be evaluated at baseline and in the fourth week as well as in the eighth and sixteenth weeks. Adverse events will be noted and recorded for the safety evaluation.

Discussion

This study will provide high-quality evidence of the value of acupuncture based on jin theory for treating CEH.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800015316. Registered on 22 March 2018. Updated version AMCTR-IOR-18000157. Registered on 1 April 2018.
Finding a home in the noise: cross-modal impact of anthropogenic vibration on animal search behaviour
Authors: Roberts Louise , Laidre Mark E.
Published: July 2019

Chemical cues and signals enable animals to sense their surroundings over vast distances and find key resources, like food and shelter. However, the use of chemosensory information may be impaired in aquatic habitats by anthropogenic activities, which produce both water-borne sounds and substrate-borne vibrations, potentially affecting not only vibroacoustic sensing but other modalities as well. We attracted marine hermit crabs (Pagurus acadianus) in field experiments using a chemical cue indicative of a newly available shell home. We then quantified the number of crabs arriving in control versus impulsive noise conditions. Treatment (control or noise), time (before or after), and the interaction between the two significantly affected the numbers of crabs, with fewer crabs attracted to the chemical cue after noise exposure. The results indicate that noise can affect chemical information use in the marine environment, acting cross-modally to impact chemically-guided search behaviour in free-ranging animals. Broadly, anthropogenic noise and seabed vibration may have profound effects, even on behaviours mediated by other sensory modalities. Hence, the impact of noise should be investigated not only within, but also across sensory modalities.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Analysis of novel hyperosmotic shock response suggests “beads in liquid” cytosol structure
Authors: Alexandrov A. I. , Grosfeld E. V. , Dergalev A. A. , Kushnirov V. V. , Chuprov-Netochin R. N. , Pyotr Tyurin-Kuzmin A. , Kireev I. I. , Ter-Avanesyan M. D. , Leonov S. V. , Agaphonov M. O.
Published: July 2019

Proteins can aggregate in response to stresses, including hyperosmotic shock. Formation and disassembly of aggregates is a relatively slow process. We describe a novel instant response of the cell to hyperosmosis, during which chaperones and other proteins form numerous foci with properties uncharacteristic of classical aggregates. These foci appeared/disappeared seconds after shock onset/removal, in close correlation with cell volume changes. Genome-wide and targeted testing revealed chaperones, metabolic enzymes, P-body components and amyloidogenic proteins in the foci. Most of these proteins can form large assemblies and for some, the assembled state was pre-requisite for participation in foci. A genome-wide screen failed to identify genes whose absence prevented foci participation by Hsp70. Shapes of and interconnections between foci revealed by super-resolution microscopy indicated that the foci were compressed between other entities. Based on our findings, we suggest a new model of cytosol architecture as a collection of numerous of gel-like regions suspended in a liquid network. This network is reduced in volume in response to hyperosmosis and forms small pockets between the gel-like regions.
Straight arm walking, bent arm running: gait-specific elbow angles
Authors: Yegian Andrew K. , Tucker Yanish , Gillinov Stephen , Lieberman Daniel E.
Published: July 2019

Stereotypically, walking and running gaits in humans exhibit different arm swing behavior: during walking, the arm is kept mostly straight, while during running, the arm is bent at the elbow. The mechanism for this behavioral difference has not been explored before. We hypothesized that a mechanical tradeoff exists between the shoulder joint and the elbow joint. Bending the elbow reduces the radius of gyration of the arm and reduces shoulder muscle torque, but at the price of increasing elbow torque. We predicted that the mechanical tradeoff would result in energetics that favored straight arms during walking and bent arms during running. The hypothesis was tested experimentally by having eight subjects walk and run with both straight arms and bent arms while recording arm swing mechanics, and oxygen consumption in a subset of six subjects. The mechanical tradeoff hypothesis was confirmed, with bent arms reducing normalized shoulder muscle torque in both gaits (walking: −33%, running: −32%) and increasing normalized elbow muscle torque in both gaits (walking: +110%, running: +30%). Bent arms increased oxygen consumption by 11% when walking, supporting our prediction that energetics favor straight arms during walking. However, oxygen consumption was equivalent for the straight and bent arm running conditions, and did not support our running prediction. We conclude that straight arms are stereotyped in walking as a result of optimal energetics, while the mechanism leading to bent arms during running remains unknown.
Quantitative evaluation of computed and voxelwise computed diffusion-weighted imaging in breast cancer
Authors: Cheng Qingyuan , Ye Shuxin , Fu Chuqi , Zhou Jiejie , He Xiaxia , Miao Haiwei , Xu Nina , Wang Meihao
Published: July 2019

Objectives:

To assess the value of computed diffusion-weighted imaging (cDWI) and voxelwise computed diffusion-weighted imaging (vcDWI) in breast cancer.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 130 patients (age range, 25–70 years; mean age ± standard deviation, 48.6 ± 10.5 years) with 130 malignant lesions, who underwent MRI examinations, including a DWI sequence, prior to needle biopsy or surgery. cDWIs with higher b-values of 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, and 4000 s/mm2, and vcDWI were generated from measured (m) DWI with two lower b-values of 0/600, 0/800, or 0/1000 s/mm2. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast ratio (CR) of all image sets were computed and compared among different DWIs by two experienced radiologists independently. To better compare the CR with the SNR, the CR value was multiplied by 100 (CR100).

Results:

The CR of vcDWI, and cDWIs, except for cDWI1000, differed significantly from that of measured diffusion-weighted imaging (mDWI) (cDWI1000: CR = 0.4904, p = 0.394; cDWI1500: CR = 0.5503, p = 0.006; cDWI2000: CR = 0.5889, p < 0.001; cDWI2500: CR = 0.6109, p < 0.001; cDWI3000: mean = 0.6214, p < 0.001; cDWI3500: CR = 0.6245, p < 0.001; cDWI4000: CR = 0.6228, p < 0.001). The vcDWI provided the highest CR, while the CRs of all cDWI image sets improved with increased b-values. The SNR of neither cDWI1000 nor vcDWI differed significantly from that of mDWI, but the mean SNRs of the remaining cDWIs were significantly lower than that of mDWI. The SNRs of cDWIs declined with increasing b-values, and the initial decrease at low b-values was steeper than the gradual attenuation at higher b-values; the CR100 rose gradually, and the two converged on the b-value interval of 1500–2000 s/mm2 .

Conclusions:

The highest CR was achieved with vcDWI; this could be a promising approach easier detection of breast cancer.

Advances in knowledge:

This study comprehensively compared and evaluated the value of the emerging post-processing DWI techniques (including a set of cDWIs and vcDWI) in breast cancer.
Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist treatment in acute ischaemic stroke does not alter systemic markers of anti-microbial defence
Authors: McCulloch Laura , Allan Stuart M. , Emsley Hedley C. , Smith Craig J. , McColl Barry W.
Published: July 2019

Background: Blockade of the cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) with IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is a candidate treatment for stroke entering phase II/III trials, which acts by inhibiting harmful inflammatory responses.  Infection is a common complication after stroke that significantly worsens outcome and is related to stroke-induced deficits in systemic immune function thought to be mediated by the sympathetic nervous system.  Therefore, immunomodulatory treatments for stroke, such as IL-1Ra, carry a risk of aggravating stroke-associated infection. Our primary objective was to determine if factors associated with antibody-mediated antibacterial defences were further compromised in patients treated with IL-1Ra after stroke.

Methods: We assessed plasma concentrations of immunoglobulin isotypes and complement components in stroke patients treated with IL-1Ra or placebo and untreated non-stroke controls using multiplex protein assays. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) was determined by measuring noradrenaline, a major SNS mediator.

Results:  There were significantly lower plasma concentrations of IgM, IgA, IgG1 and IgG4 in stroke-patients compared to non-stroke controls, however there were no differences between stroke patients treated with placebo or IL-1Ra. Concentrations of complement components associated with the classical pathway  were increased and those associated with the alternative pathways decreased in stroke patients, neither being affected by treatment with IL-1Ra.  Noradrenaline concentrations were increased after stroke in both placebo and IL-1Ra-treated stroke patients compared to non-stroke controls. 

Conclusion: These data show treatment with IL-1Ra after stroke does not alter circulating immunoglobulin and complement concentrations and is therefore unlikely to further aggravate stroke-associated infection susceptibility through reduced availability of these key anti-microbial mediators.
Development of an IgY-based lateral flow immunoassay for detection of fumonisin B in maize
Authors: Tran Tien Viet , Do Binh Nhu , Nguyen Thao Phuong Thi , Tran Tung Thanh , Tran Son Cao , Nguyen Ba Van , Nguyen Chuyen Van , Le Hoa Quang
Published: July 2019

Fumonisin is one of the most prevalent mycotoxins in maize, causing substantial economic losses and potential health risks in human and animals. In the present study, in-house polyclonal IgY antibody against fumonisin group B (FB) was applied for the development of a competitive lateral flow immunoassay detecting these mycotoxins in maize grains with the limit of detection of 4000 µg/kg, which corresponds to the maximum residue limit adopted by The International Codex Alimentarius Commission. To this end, factors affecting the test performance including nitrocellulose membrane type, dilution factor of maize homogenates in running buffer, amount of detection conjugate, and incubation time between detection conjugate and samples were optimized. Under the optimal condition (UniSart® CN140 nitrocellulose membrane, FB1-BSA immobilized at 1 µg/cm, 1:10 dilution factor, 436 ng of gold nanoparticle conjugate, 30 minutes of incubation), the developed test could detect both FB1 and FB2 in maize with limit of detection of 4000 µg/kg, and showed no cross-reactivity to deoxynivalenol, ochratoxin A, aflatoxin B1 and zearalenone. When applied to detect FB1 and FB2 in naturally contaminated maize samples, results obtained from the developed assay were in good agreement with those from the high-performance liquid chromatography method. This lateral flow immunoassay is particularly suitable for screening of fumonisins in maize because of its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Developing a core outcome set for a congenital abnormalities surveillance programme in Rwanda – a Delphi consensus study
Authors: Uwineza Annette , Muhorakeye Aline , Hitayezu Janvier , Cartledge Peter Thomas
Published: July 2019

Background: In 2015 it was reported that approximately 300,000 newborns die within four weeks of birth every year, worldwide, due to congenital anomalies.  This represents approximately 11% of neonatal deaths. This has led scientists, clinicians and public health authorities to establish congenital abnormality registries (CARs). There is currently no CAR in Rwanda. In establishing such a registry, it was determined that the first step was to identify the core outcome set (COS) (or minimal data-set) of variables and outcomes for the registry to ensure that the final results are meaningful and employable. This study aimed to use Delphi consensus methods to identify a methodologically robust COS for a congenital abnormalities surveillance programme in Rwanda.

Methods: A three-round, modified Delphi study was undertaken between April and June 2017. Round 1 was a literature and internet search followed by an open and closed question round with experts in Rounds 2 and 3, respectively.

Results: An initial draft COS of 136 outcomes was created from a review of 15 African studies and 14 international repository tools including the European Surveillance of Congenital Anomalies and the World Health Organization surveillance guidance. In total, 36 and 34 participants took part in Rounds 2 and 3, respectively. A total of 32 new outcomes were added by participants in Round 2. 103 outcomes met the pre-defined consensus criteria and made up the final COS in Round 3.

Conclusions: This is the first core outcome set for a congenital abnormality surveillance programme in an African nation identified in the literature.  The next stage is to field-test the surveillance programme using passive case-finding in teaching hospitals in Rwanda.
Optimization of extraction of genomic DNA from archived dried blood spot (DBS): potential application in epidemiological research & bio banking
Authors: Kumar Abhinendra , Mhatre Sharayu , Godbole Sheela , Jha Prabhat , Dikshit Rajesh
Published: July 2019

Background:Limited infrastructure is available to collect, store and transport venous blood in field epidemiological studies. Dried blood spot (DBS) is a robust potential alternative sample source for epidemiological studies & bio banking. A stable source of genomic DNA (gDNA) is required for long term storage in bio bank for its downstream applications. Our objective is to optimize the methods of gDNA extraction from stored DBS and with the aim of revealing its utility in large scale epidemiological studies. 

Methods:The purpose of this study was to extract the maximum amount of gDNA from DBS on Whatman 903 protein saver card. gDNA was extracted through column  (Qiagen) & magnetic bead based (Invitrogen) methods. Quantification of extracted gDNA was performed with a spectrophotometer, fluorometer, and integrity analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. 

Result:Large variation was observed in quantity & purity (260/280 ratio, 1.8-2.9) of the extracted gDNA. The intact gDNA bands on the electrophoresis gel reflect the robustness of DBS for gDNA even after prolonged storage time. The extracted gDNA amount 2.16 – 24 ng/µl is sufficient for its PCR based downstream application, but unfortunately it can’t be used for whole genome sequencing or genotyping from extracted gDNA. Sequencing or genotyping can be achieved by after increasing template copy number through whole genome amplification of extracted gDNA. The obtained results create a base for future research to develop high-throughput research and extraction methods from blood samples.

Conclusion:The above results reveal, DBS can be utilized as a potential and robust sample source for bio banking in field epidemiological studies.
Intelligence in offspring born to women exposed to intimate partner violence: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Abel Kathryn M , Heuvelman Hein , Rai Dheeraj , Timpson Nicholas J , Sarginson Jane , Shallcross Rebekah , Mitchell Heather , Hope Holly , Emsley Richard
Published: July 2019

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a risk factor for developmental problems in offspring. Despite a high prevalence of IPV in the UK and elsewhere, the longer-term outcomes of offspring born to exposed mothers remain under-researched.

Methods: Population-based cohort study. We assessed IPV prevalence by type and timing for 3,153 mother-child pairs with complete data within our study population and examined associations between IPV and offspring IQ. We used multiple-imputation to evaluate bias due to our exclusion of observations with missing covariate data.

Results: Nearly one in five mothers reported IPV during the study period, with 17.6% reporting emotional violence and 6.8% reporting physical violence. Taking into account potential confounders, the IQ scores of children born to mothers exposed to physical violence remained lower than those of maternally unexposed children (full-scale IQ = −2.8 points [95%CI −4.9 to −0.7], verbal IQ = −2.2 [95%CI −4.4 to −0.1], performance IQ = −2.7 [95%CI  −5.0 to −0.5]) and odds of below-average intelligence (IQ<90) remained increased for full-scale (OR 1.48 [95%CI 1.03 to 2.14] and performance IQ (OR 1.48 [95%CI 1.08 to 2.04]) but not verbal IQ (OR 1.06 [95%CI 0.69 to 1.64]). Most physical violence occurred postnatally, and relative odds were most substantial when mothers were exposed to violence across pre-/perinatal and postnatal study periods (OR performance IQ<90 = 2.97 [95%CI 1.30 to 6.82]).

Conclusions: Maternal exposure to physical IPV is associated with lower offspring IQ at age 8. Associations persisted after adjusting for potential confounders and were driven by violence occurring postnatally.
ЧАСТОТА ВСТРЕЧАЕМОСТИ СЕРДЕЧНОЙ НЕДОСТАТОЧНОСТИ И АНТИТРОМБОТИЧЕСКАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ У БОЛЬНЫХ С ФИБРИЛЛЯЦИЕЙ ПРЕДСЕРДИЙПО ДАННЫМ ГОСПИТАЛЬНОГО РЕГИСТРА КРАФ
Authors: Gogolashvili Nikolai Gamletovich , Tuchkov Alexander Aleksandrovich , Yaskevich Roman Anatolyevich
Published: July 2019

Изучена частота встречаемости сердечной недостаточности и системных эмболий, а также адекватность антитромботической терапии (АТТ) у 664 пациентов с неклапанной фибрилляцией предсердий (ФП), по данным госпитального регистра КРАФ. Распространенность СН по данным регистра КРАФ составила 52,7% (57,2% мужчин и 49,2% у женщин (p=0,03)). Частота встречаемости СН у пациентов с ФП увеличивалась с возрастом. Адекватную терапию ОАК на догоспитальном этапе принимали 39,1% пациентов с ФП и СН.
БИОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ ЭФФЕКТЫ КОМПОНЕНТОВ «THIRD-HAND SMOKE» В КУЛЬТУРЕ ЭРИТРОЦИТОВ
Authors: Maksimova Olga Ruslanovna
Published: July 2019

В работе изучали биологическую активность продуктов THS в кратковременной культуре эритроцитов in vitro. Было показано, что продукты THS вызывали дозо-зависимое снижение жизнеспособности эритроцитов, которое сопровождалось снижением сорбционной емкости клеток, сорбционной емкости гликокаликса и осмотической резистентности эритроцитов. Эффекты продуктов THS в культуре эритроцитов некурящих и некурящих доноров существенно различались. Предполагается, что выявленная вариабельность эффектов продуктов THS связана с компенсаторно-адаптивными перестройками мембран эритроцитов in vivo у курящих доноров.
РАСПРОСТРАНЕННОСТЬ, ДИГНОСТИКА И ПСИХОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ ОСОБЕННОСТИ ИЗБЫТОЧНОГО ВЕСА И ОЖИРЕНИЯ
Authors: Moskalenko Olga Leonidovna , Smirnova Olga Valentinovna , Kasparov Eduard Vilyamovich
Published: July 2019

В статье рассматривается проблема избыточного веса и ожирения среди взрослого населения, число которых увеличивается с каждым годом. По ВОЗ ожирение называют эпидемией или пандемией. У больных страдающих ожирением выявляются серьезные заболевания и ранняя смертность, также приводит к тревожным расстройствам, неврозоподобным состояниям и депрессиям.
Differences in effectiveness of intensive programs of treatment for neurotic and personality disorders. Is it worth to monitor the effectiveness of the therapeutic team?
Authors: Styła Rafał
Published: July 2019

Cel

Sprawdzenie, czy trzy odmienne intensywne programy leczenia zaburzeń osobowości i nerwic są skuteczne w obniżaniu nasilenia objawów nerwicowych i cech osobowości nerwicowej oraz czy istnieją różnice między tymi ośrodkami w zakresie efektów terapii.

Metoda

Grupa badana liczy 105 pacjentów (83% kobiet, średnia wieku 35 lat) ze zdiagnozowaną nerwicą lub zaburzeniami osobowości, którzy byli leczeni w warunkach oddziału dziennego lub całodobowego. Badane programy terapeutyczne były stworzone dla pacjentów z rozpoznaniem nerwic i zaburzeń osobowości. Składają się z leczenia w formie grupowej (psychoterapia grupowa, psychodrama, psychoedukacja itp.) trwającego od 6 do 12 tygodni, 5 godzin dziennie. Uczestnicy badania wypełniali Kwestionariusz Objawów Nerwicowych KS-II oraz Kwestionariusz Osobowości Nerwicowej KON-2006 na początku i pod koniec leczenia.

Wyniki

Leczenie okazało się efektywne w obniżaniu nasilenia objawów nerwicy (d Cohen=0,56). Bardziej szczegółowa analiza ukazała, że istnieje istotna statystycznie interakcja między trzema badanymi grupami a efektywnością (η2=0,09). Terapia oferowana w dwóch instytucjach okazała się efektywna (d Cohen=0,80), podczas gdy jeden z badanych programów nie prowadził do poprawy u pacjentów. Nie stwierdzono poprawy w zakresie nasilenia cech osobowości nerwicowej w żadnym z badanych ośrodków.

Wnioski

Istnieją istotne różnice w efektywności intensywnych programów leczenia nerwic i zaburzeń osobowości. W świetle literatury można postawić hipotezę, że uzyskane wyniki są w większym stopniu powiązane z charakterystyką zespołów terapeutycznych niż z wykorzystywanymi metodami. Ujawnia się potrzeba rutynowego monitorowania efektywności zespołów.
Tattoo-removal treatment with lasers: a clinical overview
Authors: Boxley Sarah
Published: July 2019

A recent global research study has highlighted the increasing prevalence both of tattoos and of the demand for their removal. Advances in laser technology are leading to faster and more effective tattoo-removal. Here we examine the unique features of the laser devices used for tattoo-removal in the current market, including their clinical indications and limitations.
Enhancing the Cupid's bow with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers
Authors: Henderson Alexandria
Published: July 2019

A common request in aesthetic practice is for a well-defined Cupid's bow. This article will discuss the increasing popularity of this treatment, and the steps that the healthcare professional should take in delivering it. This should always start with an in-depth assessment of the patient, as well as of their expectations of treatment. Patients should always be made aware of the limitations of treatment, and their expectations should be managed accordingly. Treatment technique, product selection and volume calculation are also discussed. This can be a safe and effective enhancement for some patients; however, the healthcare professional requires an in-depth knowledge of the facial anatomy in order to deliver this treatment safely and effectively.