bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FP2-4 Paediatric posterior fossa tumour resection rates in a small volume centre: the past decade’s experience
Authors: Bhatt H , Bhatti MI , Patel C , Leach P
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Resection rates for paediatric brain tumours correlate with outcome. At the 2018 BPNG meeting a commitment to prospectively collect resection data was made. Here we review our posterior fossa resection rates for the last decade.

Design

Retrospective observational cohort study of paediatric posterior fossa astrocytomas, medulloblastomas and ependymomas from 2008–2018. Primary outcome measure was extent of resection on post-op MRI, with secondary outcomes including post-op complications and need for temporary/permanent CSF diversion.

Subjects

57 patients had 62 operations for: 26 astrocytomas, 28 medulloblastomas and 8 ependymomas. Ages ranged from 7 months-16 years, with a median of 9, 7 and 6 years, respectively, and an even male: female split. Follow-up ranged from 2 months to >10 years.

Methods

Patients were identified from a prospectively collected paediatric neuro-oncology database, with clinical notes and peri-operative imaging used for analysis. Our results were compared to the published literature.

Results

Complete resection (CR) rates after 1 st surgery for patients with astrocytomas, medulloblastomas and ependymomas were 77%, 79% and 63%, respectively. 5/57 patients had a 2nd operation later, 3 of whom had primary CR followed by recurrence.

Conclusions

Our resection rates, complications and need for CSF diversion are comparable to the literature. Factors enabling this in a low-volume centre may include a robust paediatric neuro-oncology framework, fellowship-trained subspecialty surgeons and joint operating.
FP2-7 Is whole spine imaging necessary in the evaluation of children with lumbosacral lipoma?
Authors: Horsfall HL , Simcock C , D’Arco F , Thompson D
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Paediatric lumbosacral lipomas are commonly assessed by whole spine MRI, which is costly, time consuming and reduces imaging detail at the region of interest. This study evaluates the utility of whole spine vs local spine MRI in paediatric lumbosacral lipoma (LSL).

Design

Single centre, retrospective, radiological review.

Subjects

119 patients (77F:46M) aged 0.8 years (0.2–3.9) (median ±IQR) with complex LSL who had whole spine MRI between 2001–2017.

Methods

Lumbosacral lipomas were identified from a prospectively collected database. Cases where whole spine MRI was available were included. Type of lipoma and any associated spinal anomalies were recorded.

Results

347 patients had LSL, of which 119 (34%) patients had whole spine MRI. 3% were excluded due diagnosis of fatty filum terminale. 13% scans were unavailable. 119 patients were studied: 77F:46M aged 0.8 years at scan. Type of LML: transitional 36%; caudal 18%; dorsal 19%; unclassified 26%. Additional imaging abnormalities included: syrinx 18%; Chiari 1%; dermal sinus tract 13%; vertebral segmentation 13%; other 2%. None were associated with clinical symptoms nor required surgical treatment. Investigating the cost-benefit analysis of modality, lumbar spine required less MR time and cost less (40 vs 20 mins; £228.69 vs £282.39).

Conclusions

The low incidence of clinically relevant secondary lesions suggests that lumbosacral MRI only is necessary in the assessment of LSL. Imaging quality of the ROI can be optimised and MRI time and costs reduced.
P4 Spinal cord haemangioblastomas: surgical management and clinical outcome
Authors: Pitsika M , Nissen J , Jenkins A , Mitchell P
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Spinal haemangioblastomas are rare tumours that can be either sporadic or as part of the CNS expression of Von Hippel Lindau syndrome (VHL). The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics of the haemangioblastomas both in sporadic and in VHL cases and to assess the outcome of the surgical management.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all spinal haemangioblastomas that were operated between 2004 and 2017 including clinical letters, MRIs and pathology reports.

Results

A total of 14 patients underwent excision of a spinal haemangioblastoma. Average follow up time was 50 months (range 4–164 months). The location was: medulla n=3, cervical region n=4, thoracic region n=5 and conus n=2. Six patients had VHL (42%) and from those n=5 had more than one lesion. A syrinx was present in n=9 cases (VHL n=6, multiple lesions n=5) and 2 had a syringoperitoneal shunt inserted followed by excision of the haemangioblastoma. In all but one case a total excision was achieved and the syrinx disappeared or improved in 6 cases. A clinical improvement was seen in n=10 patients, in n=2 a deterioration was seen post-operatively and in n=2 new symptoms developed during their follow up from the other lesions. None of the haemangioblastomas that were removed recurred.

Conclusions

Total excision of spinal haemangioblastomas offers a good outcome with possible cure in cases of a single lesion. Patients with VHL present more commonly with multiple lesions and large syrinxes which pose a challenge to the surgical management.
P6 The use of 5-ALA fluorescence in excision of supratentorial endodermal cyst
Authors: Raslan A , Acharya S , Lavrador JP , Vergani F , Bhangoo R , Ashkan K
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The first documented use of 5-ALA in the excision of an intraparenchymal endodermal cyst.

Design

Case review.

Subjects

52 year old female presented with headaches, progressive right sided hemiparesis and anomic aphasia. She had a large cystic frontal lesion, adjacent of the frontal horn of the lateral ventricles cyst which did not show any nodular or solid component, and did not enhance with gadolinium.

Methods

Case report and review of the literature.

Results

5-ALA assisted, image guided fenestration of the cystic lesion and insertion of a ventricular catheter connected to an Ommaya reservoir was performed. The cyst wall was observed under the microscope and it fluoresced with 5-ALA. Multiple biopsies were obtained from this tissue, which confirmed diagnosis of endodermal cyst. The patient had improvement in clinical symptoms and size of the cyst radiologically in both the immediate post-operative period and the 6 months follow up.

Conclusions

Previous reports described the use of 5-ALA to identify tumour cells within the solid component of cystic haemangioblastomas as well as in cystic ependymomas where the cystic component does not fluoresce. In our patient, the homogeneous fluorescence of the wall suggested that this was indeed a different entity from a haemangioblastoma or an ependymoma because of the different pattern of fluorescence observed. 5-ALA-assisted resection of cystic lesions should be considered when a tumoral origin is uncertain.
P20 Parental understanding of concussion in youth rugby is significantly improved by viewing the RFU concussion education video
Authors: Samuel T , Aquilina K , Dawes W
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To investigate the current understanding parents have of concussion in their rugby-playing children aged 9–17.

Design

Cross-sectional study

Subjects

86 parents from four clubs completed an online questionnaire

Methods

Areas covered (1) Parental experience of concussion (2) Rate of viewing of the RFU concussion educational video (RFUCEV), (3) Identification of symptoms of concussion (4) Understanding of the risk of concussion. Each participant was given a composite score, out of 19, based on their performance in symptom identification and true/false questions. Independent-sample two-tailed t-tests were conducted to analyse scores, primarily controlling for viewing of the RFUCEV

Results

There was a significant difference in the scores between the group that had viewed the RFUCEV (n=32, M=14.75, SD=2.55) and those who had not (n=54, M=13.05, SD=2.87); t(84)=2.75, p=0.00721. Additionally, over 25% of parents reported that their child had suffered a concussion, and this was also found to significantly improve the awareness score (p=0.04678)

Conclusions

Statistically significant improvement in composite scores after viewing the RFUCEV makes it reasonable to require compulsory parental education prior to signing up a child to play rugby. This would build on the protocol changes made by the RFU in 2014 and further progress the safety of the sport. We suggest the video be improved to emphasise the areas highlighted as inadequately understood, including the increased risk of concussion in under-18s compared to adults.
P22 Phenytoin versus levetiracetam for post traumatic brain injury seizure prophylaxis; a retrospective study at a UK major trauma centre
Authors: Harris L , Hateley S , Seemungal B
Published: February 2019

Objectives

12% of patients with severe Traumatic brain injury (TBI) suffer from seizures. Evidence suggests that the use of an antiepileptic drug (AED) is beneficial in preventing early post TBI seizures. To date, no specific NICE guidelines exist on the choice of post TBI seizure prophylaxis. This study aims to identify the trend in AED usage, the impact on length of stay and to compare the tolerability of phenytoin and levetiracetam.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Subjects

201 patients.

Methods

All patients admitted to a Major Trauma Unit following a head injury treated with levetiracetam or phenytoin for seizure prophylaxis were included in the study. Data was collected between October 2013 – September 2014 and November 2016 – October 2017. Patient demographics, Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) on admission, length of treatment, AED toxicity, length of stay, complications, surgical input and length of ITU stay were recorded.

Results

85.6% of patients were treated with phenytoin in 2013–2014% and 82.5% were treated with levetiracetam in 2016–2017. The average length of stay for phenytoin was 23.2 days and 13.9 days for levetiracetam. Subgroup analysis was performed on patients with an admission GCS of 14–15. Length of stay for phenytoin was 14.9 days (SD −11.87) and levetiracetam 9.4 days (SD 10.588) (p=0.07). 24% of patients on phenytoin and 14% on levetiracetam suffered from dizziness.

Conclusions

This suggests that levetiracetam is tolerated better with fewer side effects. We recommend its use in clinical practice.
Running to breaking point? The relationship between 1.5-mile run time and injury risk in female recruits during British Army basic training
Authors: Heller Rosalie , Stammers H
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The 1.5-mile best-effort run is used in the British Army to assess the fitness of all recruits and trained service personnel by means of the physical fitness assessment (PFA). The 1.5-mile run is a basic measure of fitness and slower times have been associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSkI), particularly during this early stage of training. The aim of this study was to establish whether 1.5-mile run times were associated with subsequent MSkIs among female recruits during their 14-week basic training.

Method

Retrospective data were analysed from female recruits who had undertaken basic military training between June 2016 and October 2017. This included retrieving the results of their week 1 PFA; recording the type, cause and week of MSkI if they had sustained one; and noting down their outcome from basic training. Run times were statistically analysed in relation to MSkI occurrence of 227 female recruits using binomial logistic regression with an accepted alpha level of p value <0.05.

Results

1.5-mile run time predicted risk of MSkI (χ2(1)=12.91, p<0.0005) in female recruits. The mean run time for injury-free recruits was faster than for injured recruits (12 min 13 s compared with 12 min 43 s). Every 10 s increase in run time was associated with an 8.3% increase in risk of injury.

Conclusion

Slower 1.5-mile best-effort run time, as a surrogate of aerobic fitness, is associated with increased risk of MSkI in female recruits during basic training.
Unhealthy dietary patterns are related to low ceruloplasmin in female nurses
Authors: Abashzadeh Karolin , Abshirini M , Siassi F , Qorbani M , Koohdani F , Farasati N , Sotoudeh G
Published: February 2019

Background and objective

Few studies have examined the relationship between dietary patterns and antioxidant status. We aimed to explore the association between major dietary patterns and oxidative stress biomarkers including serum protein carbonyl (PC), ceruloplasmin and total antioxidant capacity (TAC).

Method

In this cross-sectional study, we randomly selected 320 female nurses aged 20–45 years. General information of participants was collected by trained interviewers. Their weight and height were measured and dietary intakes were determined by the 147-food-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were derived by principal component analysis of yielding 25 food groups. In this study, 90 subjects were randomly selected from all participants with serum levels of PC, ceruloplasmin and TAC measured further. To determine the association between dietary patterns’ score and oxidative stress biomarkers, multiple linear regression analysis was conducted.

Results

Three dietary patterns were derived: healthy, unhealthy and traditional. After adjusting for several confounding factors, the unhealthy dietary pattern was inversely related to the serum concentration of ceruloplasmin and PC (p<0.05). The relationship between other dietary patterns and antioxidant biomarkers was not significant.

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, unhealthy dietary patterns may have an adverse effect on serum ceruloplasmin.
Institutional and provider variations for mechanical thrombectomy in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke: a survey analysis
Authors: Mehta Tapan , Male Shailesh , Quinn Coridon , Kallmes David F , Siddiqui Adnan H , Turk Aquilla , Grande Andrew Walker , Tummala Ramachandra Prasad , Jagadeesan Bharathi Dasan
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Stent retriever combined with aspiration, or the ‘Solumbra technique’, has recently emerged as one of the popular methods of mechanical thrombectomy (MT). However, the variations in understanding and implementation of the Solumbra technique have not been reported.

Methods

An 18 part anonymous survey questionnaire was designed to extract information regarding technical variations of MT with a focus on the Solumbra technique. The survey link was posted on the Society of Neurointerventional Surgery (SNIS) website in ‘SNIS connect’.

Results

80 responses were obtained over 4 weeks that were included in the final analysis. Direct aspiration without a balloon guide catheter (BGC) was the most favored technique among respondents (41.12%) followed by the Solumbra technique without a BGC (32.4%). Among those using the Solumbra technique, 77.6% reported that they wait between 2 and 5 min to allow clot engagement, 55.2% always remove the microcatheter before aspiration, and 69.1% commence aspiration through the intermediate catheter only when retrieving the stent retriever. Operators who infrequently used or did not use BGCs reported a higher incidence of >80% Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b/3 annual recanalization rates (OR 8.85, 95% CI 2.03 to 38.55, P=0.004) compared with those who consistently used BGCs.

Conclusion

Our study documents the variations in MT techniques, and more specifically, attempts to quantify variations in the Solumbra technique. The impact of these variations on recanalization rates and eventually patient outcomes are unclear, especially given the self-reported outcomes contained in this study.
Case-control investigation of occupational lead exposure and kidney cancer
Authors: Callahan Catherine L , Friesen Melissa C , Locke Sarah J , Dopart Pamela J , Stewart Patricia A , Schwartz Kendra , Ruterbusch Julie J , Graubard Barry I , Chow Wong-Ho , Rothman Nathaniel , Hofmann Jonathan N , Purdue Mark P
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Lead is a suspected carcinogen that has been inconsistently associated with kidney cancer. To clarify this relationship, we conducted an analysis of occupational lead exposure within a population-based study of kidney cancer using detailed exposure assessment methods.

Methods

Study participants (1217 cases and 1235 controls), enrolled between 2002 and 2007, provided information on their occupational histories and, for selected lead-related occupations, answered questions regarding workplace tasks, and use of protective equipment. Industrial hygienists used this information to develop several estimates of occupational lead exposure, including probability, duration and cumulative exposure. Unconditional logistic regression was used to compute ORs and 95% CIs for different exposure metrics, with unexposed subjects serving as the reference group. Analyses were also conducted stratifying on several factors, including for subjects of European ancestry only, single nucleotide polymorphisms inALAD(rs1805313, rs1800435, rs8177796, rs2761016), a gene involved in lead toxicokinetics.

Results

In our study, cumulative occupational lead exposure was not associated with kidney cancer (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.3 for highest quartile vs unexposed; ptrend=0.80). Other lead exposure metrics were similarly null. We observed no evidence of effect modification for the evaluatedALADvariants (subjects of European ancestry only, 662 cases and 561 controls) and most stratifying factors, although lead exposure was associated with increased risk among never smokers.

Conclusions

The findings of this study do not offer clear support for an association between occupational lead exposure and kidney cancer.
Obstetric anaesthesia: what a neurologist needs to know
Authors: O’Neal Mary Angela
Published: February 2019

Neurologists are often consulted to see women postpartum who are having difficulties involving the lower extremities; weakness, numbness and pain. Many of these women have received labour analgesia. Often, there is limited understanding by the neurologist of how these procedures are performed, why a neuraxial technique is chosen and their potential complications. This case-based review will explain the differences in the neuraxial procedures: epidural, spinal and combined spinal epidural; their advantages and disadvantages, why one technique might be chosen over another, contraindications as well as procedural risks.
Developing practical recommendations for preventative healthcare consultations involving dogs and cats using a Delphi technique
Authors: Belshaw Zoe , Robinson Natalie Jane , Brennan Marnie Louise , Dean Rachel S
Published: February 2019

Preventive healthcare is the focus of a large proportion of UK small animal veterinary consultations. The evidence base for how to optimise these consultations is limited. Therefore, evidence‐based practical recommendations are needed for veterinary surgeons conducting these consultations. The aim of this study was to use an evidence‐based methodology to develop the first consensus recommendations to improve dog and cat preventative healthcare consultations (PHCs).

Evidence from multiple sources was systematically examined to generate a list of 18 recommendations. Veterinary surgeons and pet owners with extensive experience of PHCs were recruited to an anonymous panel to obtain consensus on whether these recommendations would improve PHCs. A Delphi technique was followed during three rounds of online questionnaire, with consensus set at 80 per cent agreement or disagreement with each recommendation. Thirteen of the original 18 recommendations reached consensus (>80per cent agreement), while the five remaining recommendations did not reach consensus.

Globally, these are the first evidence‐based recommendations developed specifically in relation to small animal general practice PHCs, generated via a Delphi panel including both veterinary surgeons and pet owners. Future work is needed to understand how these recommendations can be implemented in a range of veterinary practice settings.
A periodic density functional theory study of adsorption of CO2 on anorthite (001) surface and effect of water
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liu Xiaoqiang , He Xu , Zhao Jianming , Chu Wei , Xue Ying
Published: February 2019

The interactions of carbon dioxide with the anorthite (001) surface and the influence of H2O on the adsorption were studied using the density functional theory (DFT) calculations on periodic slab systems. Of the various available sites, CO2 binding was calculated to be strongly adsorbed to calcium atoms and oxygen atoms on the tetrahedral Al and Si sites, with quite high adsorption energy values ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]kcal/mol) except adsorbed on O3 atom. CO2 is found to favorably adsorb in a linear configuration, in which CO2 has an electrostatic attraction with the Ca atom in type [Formula: see text], the CO2 carbon atom forms a new chemical bond with oxygen of anorthite surface in type [Formula: see text]. In this group, the CO2 is bent into [Formula: see text] shape with the O–C–O angle decreased and a significant elongation of the C–O bond length compared with the free CO2 molecule. Mulliken charge population analyses were implemented to indicate charge transfer from the anorthite (001) surface to the CO2 molecule. The partial density of states (PDOS) analysis of stable configurations further explains the strong interactions between CO2 and anorthite (001) surface. The existence of H2O molecule performs a positive influence on the adsorption of CO2 with significant decrease of the adsorption energy.
Generalized Wehrl entropies and Euclidean Landau levels
Authors: Mouayn Z. , Kassogue H. , Kikodio P. Kayupe , Fatani I. F.
Published: February 2019

We are concerned with a class of generalized coherent states (GCS) attached to Euclidean Landau levels (or to [Formula: see text]-true-polyanalytic spaces), which can be obtained by displacing a Gaussian–Hermite function as an admissible (or window) function. Precisely, we evaluate the Wehrl entropy for a density operator representing a projector on a Fock state (pure states) and we give an upper bound for this entropy. We also establish an exact formula of this entropy for the heat operator (mixed states) associated with the harmonic oscillator. In this case, the behavior of the entropy with respect to the temperature parameter shows the dependence of its minimum to the Landau level or equivalently to the window function by means of which the GCS involved in the Wehrl entropy were constructed.
Validation of a Modeling Tool for In-Plane Longitudinal Resonators with Zigzag Topology
Authors: Chen Bowei , Shiryayev Oleg , Vahdati Nader , El-Sinawi Ameen
Published: February 2019

Metastructures are viewed as a promising means for suppressing elastic waves and unwanted vibrations. Metastructures comprise of elementary cells with embedded resonators, which act as vibration absorbers. Design and frequency tuning of individual resonators inside the metastructure allows to achieve effective suppression of vibrations over a relatively wide frequency bandwidth, which makes metastructures superior compared to conventional passive vibration absorbers. This paper describes numerical and experimental validation of a modeling tool for design of planar resonators with elastic elements arranged in a zigzag configuration for suppression of longitudinal vibrations. Zigzag topology is advantageous due to its ability to provide higher compliance within a limited space, so as to achieve low resonant frequencies. Natural frequencies predicted by the proposed model agree well with predictions provided by detailed finite element models and experimental measurements.
Chondrosarcoma of the Hand Bones: A Report of 6 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: García-Jiménez Antonio , Chanes-Puiggrós Camila , Trullols-Tarragó Laura , Pulido-García María-Carmen
Published: February 2019

Background: Primary malignant tumours of the hand are extremely rare, with chondrosarcoma being the most common. We describe six consecutive cases of chondrosarcoma (CS) of the hand, with a follow-up of 12 months to 10 years after surgical intervention.

Methods: Five cases were primary tumors and one was secondary to Ollier’s disease. Mean age at diagnosis was 67.5 years (range 46 to 85 years) and three patients were males. The bone most commonly affected was the proximal phalanx (in 4 patients), followed by the metacarpal bone (3 cases in the other 2 patients). The first symptom was an increase in volume in five cases and a pathological fracture in one. The x-ray study showed signs of malignancy in two cases only. In the other four cases, CT and MRI studies were necessary to complete the diagnosis.

Results: Primary amputation was performed in two cases and intralesional curettage and cancellous bone autograft in four. Primary amputation was performed in two cases and intralesional curettage and cancellous bone autograft in four. We found three grade I/III CS and three grade II/III CS in the histological study. Local recurrences occurred in three patients, two being grade II/III CS. One of the three had undergone an initial amputation and underwent re-amputation, another had had curettage of the lesion and was amputated, and the third patient decided not to undergo the procedure due to her age. A pulmonary nodule was suspected at the most recent follow up in a fourth patient, who had been diagnosed with a grade II/III CS.

Conclusions: Although CS of the hand bones behaves as a locally aggressive lesion, it rarely metastasizes. Intralesional curettage with a cancellous bone autograft appears to be a good option in low-grade CS to preserve the function, keeping in mind the high rate of recurrence. Wide excision or amputation is recommended when severe joint deformity or soft tissue involvement interferes with hand function.
Unstable Dorsal Fracture-Dislocations of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: Volar Plate Fixation with or without Bone Graft
Authors: Milner Chris , Samson Deepak , Tan Simon
Published: February 2019

Background: To evaluate the treatment of severe dorsal fracture dislocation (DFD) injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) by open reduction, bone grafting and fixation with mini-hook plates.

Methods: Fourteen patients with extensive dorsal fracture dislocation of the PIPJ were operatively treated to reconstruct the fractured middle phalanx volar lip using a fabricated hook plate in conjunction with elevation and bone grafting of depressed articular fragments where present.

Results: Restoration of PIPJ articular anatomy and congruence by hook plate fixation permitted full-range mobilization of the joint during fracture healing, with an average arc of motion of 81° and an average loss of extension of 12.9° at a minimum of 6 months follow up. Hook plate treatment of PIPJ fracture dislocation restores articular anatomy and joint congruence at a single sitting and permits post-operative mobilization without the need for extension block splinting.

Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a good range of motion following treatment, however hardware removal and tenolysis was necessary in 36% of cases.
Comparative Biomechanical Characteristics of Modified Side-to-Side Repair and Modified Pulvertaft Weaving Repair – In vitro Study
Authors: Kannan Sudhir , Ghosh Arijit I. , Dias Joseph J. , Singh Harvinder Pal
Published: February 2019

Background: Strong surgical repair is the mechanical basis of early mobilization and prerequisite for biological healing following tendon grafting. Side to side and pulvertaft repairs were developed to meets these demands. However, these techniques have later been modified to improve the strength of repair but their characteristics have not been compared.

Methods: We compared biomechanical strength of the modified side-to-side (SS) repair with the modified Pulvertaft (PT) repair technique in turkey tendons keeping overlap length, anchor points, type of suture, suture throw and amount of suture similar. Two investigators performed 34 repairs during one summer month to test the tensile strength of the repair using mechanical strength testing machine. Variables measured were maximum load, load to first failure, modulus, load at break, mode of failure, site of failure, tensile strain, tensile stress. The statistical comparison was carried by Levene’s test and T test for means.

Results: The mean maximum load for modified SS repair was 50.3 (SD 13.7) N and modified PT repair was 46.9 (SD 16.4) N. The tensile stress at maximum load for SS and modified PT repair was 4.7 (SD 4) MPa and 4.2 (SD 3) MPa respectively. The suture cut through was the commonest mode of failure.

Conclusions: We found no statistical difference between 2 repairs in load at which they started failing (p = 0.16), and maximum load repairs could withstand (p = 0.35). Our study uniquely compares two techniques under standard conditions, and contrary to existing evidence found no difference. However, in our opinion the number of anchor points may have a greater impact than number of weaves on the strength.
Radial Dislocation of Extensor Tendon Over the Metacarpophalangeal Joint of the Thumb due to Cerebral Hemorrhage: A Case Report
Authors: Zukawa Mineyuki , Osada Ryusuke , Kimura Tomoatsu
Published: February 2019

We report a rare case of radial dislocation of the extensor tendon over the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of the thumb. Ulnar dislocation has been reported, but previous reports have not mentioned radial dislocation of the extensor tendon in the thumb. Radial dislocation of the extensor tendon of the thumb gradually progressed after cerebral hemorrhage and the patient could not extend MCP joint of the thumb. To resolve difficulty in extending the MCP joint, surgical centralization of the extensor tendon and partial resection of the flexor pollicis brevis (FPB) and abductor pollicis brevis (APB) insertions was performed. The patient recovered function of thumb extensors.
Flexor Tendon Lacerations Secondary to Closed Proximal Phalangeal Fracture
Authors: Tolerton Sarah , Nabarro Mark
Published: February 2019

We report a case of complete laceration of both flexor tendons in the dominant ring finger of a young male caused by a closed volar fracture fragment of the proximal phalanx. Careful clinical examination, reasonable index of suspicion and ultrasound confirmation play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and surgical planning of this rare yet consequential injury. Good outcomes can be achieved from the surgical management and rehabilitation of both soft tissue and bony injuries when planning of surgical approaches and fixation techniques are facilitated by an accurate pre-operative diagnosis.
Digital Editions of Text
Authors: Franzini Greta , Terras Melissa , Mahony Simon
Published: February 2019

This article presents the findings of a web survey designed to better understand the expectations and use of digital editions of texts. The survey, modelled upon a detailed analysis of 242 projects, recorded 218 complete responses, shedding light on user requirements of digital editions. Specifically, the survey indicates that issues of data reuse, licensing, image availability, and comprehensive documentation are the most requested features of digital editions, although ones which seldom are provided. This analysis feeds into previous studies on good practice in building Digital Humanities resources and puts forward practical recommendations for both creators and funders of digital editions in an effort to promote a stronger consideration of user needs. This survey will be of interest to those who produce digital editions of texts, including developers and engineers, and will also be of interest to those who commission and fund these projects, such as universities, libraries, and archives, whose documentary collections are often showcased in digital editions.
Communicating Museum Collections Information Online
Authors: Gil-Fuentetaja Ion , Economou Maria
Published: February 2019

Cultural heritage institutions are spending considerable effort and resources to provide online access to their collection catalogues and collection management systems, usually through their institutional websites. This improves accessibility and supports research and engagement by diverse user groups, as well as meeting the increasing expectation by audiences that this type of information will be freely and easily available online. However, cultural organisations have not responded to these needs in the same way and have been employing different web tools and features to present their collections online. In this article, we argue that the technological implementation choices and the type of content provided reflect also the philosophy of communication of the institution itself. We used the constructivist approach's learning theory and theory of knowledge and combined these interrelated epistemological and cognitive perspectives to analyse the communication philosophy of a large number of museum online catalogues. The article presents the research carried out initially in 2007 through 2009 and then again in 2017, studying the provision of collections information online by different types of museums across Europe and in the United States. This enabled us to establish categories of presentation types and study the changes over time. The results highlighted the major shift towards participatory practices which have been transforming the cultural heritage world over the past years.
A Survey on Power Management Techniques for Oversubscription of Multi-Tenant Data Centers
Authors: Malla Sulav , Christensen Ken
Published: February 2019

Power management for data centers has been extensively studied in the past 10 years. Most research has focused on owner-operated data centers with less focus on Multi-Tenant Data Centers (MTDC) or colocation data centers. In an MTDC, an operator owns the building and leases out space, power, and cooling to tenants to install their own IT equipment. MTDC’s present new challenges for data center power management due to an inherent lack of coordination between the operator and tenants. In this article, we conduct a comprehensive survey of existing MTDC power management techniques for demand response programs, sustainability, and/or power hierarchy oversubscription. Power oversubscription is of particular interest, as it can maximize resource utilization, increase operator profit, and reduce tenant costs. We create a taxonomy to classify and compare key works. Our taxonomy and review differ from existing works in that our emphasis is on safe power oversubscription, which has been neglected in previous surveys. We propose future research for prediction and control of power overload events in an oversubscribed MTDC.
Risk-Sensitive Learning to Rank with Evolutionary Multi-Objective Feature Selection
Authors: Sousa Daniel Xavier , Canuto Sérgio , Gonçalves Marcos André , Rosa Thierson Couto , Martins Wellington Santos
Published: February 2019

Learning to Rank (L2R) is one of the main research lines in Information Retrieval.
Risk-sensitive L2R
is a sub-area of L2R that tries to learn models that are good on average while at the same time reducing the risk of performing poorly in a few but important queries (e.g., medical or legal queries). One way of reducing risk in learned models is by selecting and removing noisy, redundant features, or features that promote some queries to the detriment of others. This is exacerbated by learning methods that usually maximize an average metric (e.g., mean average precision (MAP) or Normalized Discounted Cumulative Gain (NDCG)). However, historically,
feature selection
(FS) methods have focused only on effectiveness and feature reduction as the main objectives. Accordingly, in this work, we propose to evaluate FS for L2R with an additional objective in mind, namely
risk-sensitiveness
. We present novel single and multi-objective criteria to optimize feature reduction, effectiveness, and risk-sensitiveness, all at the same time. We also introduce a new methodology to explore the search space, suggesting effective and efficient extensions of a well-known Evolutionary Algorithm (SPEA2) for FS applied to L2R. Our experiments show that explicitly including risk as an objective criterion is crucial to achieving a more effective and risk-sensitive performance. We also provide a thorough analysis of our methodology and experimental results.
Accelerating Synchronization Using Moving Compute to Data Model at 1,000-core Multicore Scale
Authors: Dogan Halit , Ahmad Masab , Kahne Brian , Khan Omer
Published: February 2019

Thread synchronization using shared memory hardware cache coherence paradigm is prevalent in multicore processors. However, as the number of cores increase on a chip, cache line ping-pong prevents performance scaling for algorithms that deploy fine-grain synchronization. This article proposes an in-hardware moving computation to data model (MC) that pins shared data at dedicated cores. The critical code sections are serialized and executed at these cores in a spatial setting to enable data locality optimizations. In-hardware messages enable non-blocking and blocking communication between cores, without involving the cache coherence protocol. The in-hardware MC model is implemented on
Tilera Tile-Gx72
multicore platform to evaluate 8- to 64-core count scale. A simulated RISC-V multicore environment is built to further evaluate the performance scaling advantages of the MC model at 1,024-cores scale. The evaluation using graph and machine-learning benchmarks illustrates that atomic instructions based synchronization scales up to 512 cores, and the MC model at the same core count outperforms by 27% in completion time and 39% in dynamic energy consumption.
Linear and Efficient String Matching Algorithms Based on Weak Factor Recognition
Authors: Cantone Domenico , Faro Simone , Pavone Arianna
Published: February 2019

We present a simple and very efficient algorithm for string matching based on the combination of weak factor recognition and hashing. Despite its quadratic worst-case running time, our algorithm exhibits a sublinear behaviour. We also propose some practical improvements of our algorithm and a variant with a linear worst-case time complexity. Experimental results show that, in most cases, some of the variants of our algorithm obtain the best running times when compared, under various conditions, against the most effective algorithms present in the literature. For instance, in the case of small alphabets and long patterns, the gain in running time is up to 18%. This makes our proposed algorithm one of the most flexible solutions in practical cases.
Perceptual Effects of Inconsistency in Human Animations
Authors: Kenny Sophie , Mahmood Naureen , Honda Claire , Black Michael J. , Troje Nikolaus F.
Published: February 2019

The individual shape of the human body, including the geometry of its articulated structure and the distribution of weight over that structure, influences the kinematics of a person’s movements. How sensitive is the visual system to inconsistencies between shape and motion introduced by retargeting motion from one person onto the shape of another? We used optical motion capture to record five pairs of male performers with large differences in body weight, while they pushed, lifted, and threw objects. From these data, we estimated both the kinematics of the actions as well as the performer’s individual body shape. To obtain consistent and inconsistent stimuli, we created animated avatars by combining the shape and motion estimates from either a single performer or from different performers. Using these stimuli we conducted three experiments in an immersive virtual reality environment. First, a group of participants detected which of two stimuli was inconsistent. Performance was very low, and results were only marginally significant. Next, a second group of participants rated perceived attractiveness, eeriness, and humanness of consistent and inconsistent stimuli, but these judgements of animation characteristics were not affected by consistency of the stimuli. Finally, a third group of participants rated properties of the objects rather than of the performers. Here, we found strong influences of shape-motion inconsistency on perceived weight and thrown distance of objects. This suggests that the visual system relies on its knowledge of shape and motion and that these components are assimilated into an altered perception of the action outcome. We propose that the visual system attempts to resist inconsistent interpretations of human animations. Actions involving object manipulations present an opportunity for the visual system to reinterpret the introduced inconsistencies as a change in the dynamics of an object rather than as an unexpected combination of body shape and body motion.
Integrated Approach of Airgap Insertion for Circuit Timing Optimization
Authors: Hyun Daijoon , Shin Youngsoo
Published: February 2019

Airgap technology enables air to be introduced in inter-metal dielectric (IMD). Airgap between certain wires reduces coupling capacitance due to the reduced permittivity; this can be utilized to decrease circuit delay. We propose an integrated approach of airgap insertion with the goal of circuit timing optimization. It consists of three sub-problems. We first select the layers that employ airgap, called airgap layers, that maximize total negative slack (TNS) improvement; this yields TNS improvement of 7% to 15% and worst negative slack (WNS) improvement of 2% to 8%, compared to a simple assumption of airgap layers. Second, we reassign the layers of wires such that more wires on critical paths can be placed in airgap layers. This is formulated as integer linear programming (ILP), and a more practical heuristic algorithm is also proposed. It provides an additional 17% TNS improvement and 6% WNS improvement. Finally, we perform airgap insertion through ILP formulation, where a number of design rules are modeled with linear constraints. To reduce the heavy runtime of ILP, a layout partitioning technique is also applied. It implements a feasible airgap mask in a manageable time where the amount of inserted airgap is close to the optimal solution.
Coagulation changes induced by lower-body negative pressure in men and women
Authors: Cvirn Gerhard , Waha James E. , Brix Bianca , Rössler Andreas , Jantscher Andreas , Schlagenhauf Axel , Koestenberger Martin , Wonisch Willibald , Wagner Thomas , Goswami Nandu
Published: February 2019

We investigated whether lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) application leads to coagulation activation in whole blood (WB) samples in healthy men and women. Twenty-four women and 21 men, all healthy young participants, with no histories of thrombotic disorders and not on medications, were included. LBNP was commenced at −10 mmHg and increased by −10 mmHg every 5 min until a maximum of −40 mmHg. Recovery up to 10 min was also monitored. Blood samples were collected at baseline, at end of LBNP, and end of recovery. Hemostatic profiling included comparing the effects of LBNP on coagulation values in both men and women using standard coagulation tests, calibrated automated thrombogram, thrombelastometry, impedance aggregometry, and markers of thrombin formation. LBNP led to coagulation activation determined in both plasma and WB samples. At baseline, women were hypercoagulable compared with men, as evidenced by their shorter “lag times” and higher thrombin peaks and by shorter “coagulation times” and “clot formation times.” Moreover, men were more susceptible to LBNP, as reflected in their elevated factor VIII levels and decreased lag times following LBNP. LBNP-induced coagulation activation was not accompanied by endothelial activation. Women appear to be relatively hypercoagulable compared with men, but men are more susceptible to coagulation changes during LBNP. The application of LBNP might be a useful future tool to identify individuals with an elevated risk for thrombosis, in subjects with or without history of thrombosis.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY LBNP led to coagulation activation determined in both plasma and whole blood samples. At baseline, women were hypercoagulable compared with men. Men were, however, more susceptible to coagulation changes during LBNP. LBNP-induced coagulation activation was not accompanied by endothelial activation. The application of LBNP might be a useful future tool to identify individuals with an elevated risk for thrombosis, in subjects with or without history of thrombosis.
Inactivity induces resistance to the metabolic benefits following acute exercise
Authors: Akins John D. , Crawford Charles K. , Burton Heath M. , Wolfe Anthony S. , Vardarli Emre , Coyle Edward F.
Published: February 2019

Acute exercise improves postprandial lipemia, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, recent research suggests that prolonged sedentary behavior might abolish these healthy metabolic benefits. Accordingly, this study aimed to elucidate the impact of an acute bout of exercise on postprandial plasma triglyceride, glucose, and insulin concentrations after 4 days of prolonged sitting (~13.5 h/day). Ten untrained to recreationally active men ( n = 5) and women ( n = 5) completed a counterbalanced, crossover study. Four days of prolonged sitting without exercise (SIT) were compared with 4 days of prolonged sitting with a 1-h bout of treadmill exercise (SIT + EX; 63.1 ± 5.2% V̇o2max) on the evening of the fourth day. The following morning, participants completed a high-fat/glucose tolerance test (HFGTT), during which plasma was collected over a 6-h period and analyzed for triglycerides, glucose, and insulin. No differences between trials ( P > 0.05) were found in the overall plasma triglyceride, glucose, or insulin responses during the HFGTT. This lack of difference between trials comes with similarly low physical activity (~3,500–4,000 steps/day) on each day except for the 1-h bout of exercise during SIT + EX the day before the HFGTT. These data indicate that physical inactivity (e.g., sitting ~13.5 h/day and <4,000 steps/day) creates a condition whereby people become “resistant” to the metabolic improvements that are typically derived from an acute bout of aerobic exercise (i.e., exercise resistance).

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In people who are physically inactive and sitting for a majority of the day, a 1-h bout of vigorous exercise failed to improve lipid, glucose, and insulin metabolism measured the next day. It seems that something inherent to inactivity and/or prolonged sitting makes the body resistant to the 1 h of exercise preventing the normally derived metabolic improvements following exercise.