bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning in Collaborative Moments
Authors: Hoppe Silke , Vermeulen Laura , Driessen Annelieke , Roding Els , de Groot Marije , Krause Kristine
Published: March 2020

In this article, we describe experiences with dialogue evenings within a research collaboration on long-term care and dementia in the Netherlands. What started as a conventional process of ‘reporting back’ to interlocutors transformed over the course of two years into learning and knowing together. We argue that learning took place in three different articulations. First, participants learnt to expand their notion of knowledge. Second, they learnt to relate differently to each other and, therewith, to dementia. And third, participants learnt how to generate knowledge with each other. We further argue that these processes did not happen continuously, but in moments. We suggest that a framework of collaborative moments can be helpful for research projects that are not set up collaboratively from the start. Furthermore, we point to the work required to facilitate these moments.
Emotional Encounters and Young Feminine Choreographies in the Helsinki Metro
Authors: Mulari Heta
Published: March 2020

In this article I discuss girls’ and non-binary young people’s experiences of unwelcome intergenerational encounters in the Helsinki metro underground transport network. I foreground a theoretical conception of the metro as an urban space in which the material is deeply intertwined with the political and as a space with its own racialized, gendered, and age-based hierarchies. Calling on the work of Sara Ahmed, I investigate how girls and non-binary young people make meaning of unwanted emotional encounters in the metro space and how they use and adopt certain material and digital strategies that Helena Saarikoski calls young feminine choreographies, to cope in these situations. This article is based on interviews with girls and non-binary young people who were then between 16 and 17 years of age.
Multi-ethnic Girls' Social Positional Identities in Educational Transitions
Authors: Roth Solveig , Stuedahl Dagny
Published: March 2020

In this article, we examine the case history of a young multi-ethnic Norwegian girl, whom we call Anna, from the age of 15 to 17 to show how her self-understanding of positionings within her educational transitions illustrates how gendered expectations in a Norwegian context influence girls’ future trajectories. We use the concepts of social positional identities in figured worlds and performativity to explore self-understanding. Anna’s case history illustrates how gender performativity comes about out of a complex web of family, school, and societal expectations. We discuss the tensions Anna experienced in her educational trajectory and the changes in her performative positioning when she entered upper secondary school. We consider the ways in which this had implications for her future life trajectory and offer suggestions to educators on how to understand and support the different learning trajectories of multi-ethnic students.
Space, Gender, and Identity in Sciamma's Girlhood and Arnold's Fish Tank
Authors: Puysségur Marie
Published: March 2020

In this article, I explore the use of space in Andrea Arnold’s Fish Tank and Céline Sciamma’s Bande de Filles, two films that depict the experiences of 15-year-old girls in a British housing estate and a Parisian banlieue respectively. The spatial motifs related to identity that circulate throughout the films establish a regime of flux, ambiguity, and reversibility that contributes to a depiction of female adolescence as unfixed and unsettled. I argue that both films, in their focus on the lived experience of their protagonists, investigate the landscape of economically and socially peripheral spaces to develop a specifically female approach to contemporary coming-of-age narratives that takes into account the difference that gender makes.
Cerebrospinal fluid area and syringogenesis in Chiari malformation type I
Authors: Taylor Davis G. , Chatrath Ajay , Mastorakos Panagiotis , Paisan Gabriella , Chen Ching-Jen , Buell Thomas J. , Jane John A.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Syringogenesis in Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) is thought to occur secondary to impaction of the cerebellar tonsils within the foramen magnum (FM). However, the correlation between the CSF area and syringogenesis has yet to be elucidated. The authors sought to determine whether the diminution in subarachnoid space is associated with syringogenesis. Further, the authors sought to determine if syrinx resolution was associated with the degree of expansion of subarachnoid spaces after surgery.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of all patients undergoing posterior fossa decompression for CM-I from 2004 to 2016 at the University of Virginia Health System. The subarachnoid spaces at the FM and at the level of the most severe stenosis were measured before and after surgery by manual delineation of the canal and neural tissue area on MRI and verified through automated CSF intensity measurements. Imaging and clinical outcomes were then compared.

RESULTS

Of 68 patients, 26 had a syrinx at presentation. Syrinx patients had significantly less subarachnoid space at the FM (13% vs 19%, p = 0.0070) compared to those without syrinx. Following matching based on degree of tonsillar herniation and age, the subarachnoid space was significantly smaller in patients with a syrinx (12% vs 19%, p = 0.0015). Syrinx resolution was associated with an increase in patients’ subarachnoid space after surgery compared with those patients without resolution (23% vs 10%, p = 0.0323).

CONCLUSIONS

Syrinx development in CM-I patients is correlated with the degree to which the subarachnoid CSF spaces are diminished at the cranial outlet. Successful syrinx reduction is associated with the degree to which the subarachnoid spaces are increased following surgery.
Use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein for revision cervical spine fusion in children with Down syndrome: a case series
Authors: Cohen Lara L. , Yang Brian W. , O’Neill Nora P. , Proctor Mark R. , Glotzbecker Michael P. , Hedequist Daniel J.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Patients with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome; DS) often have atlantoaxial instability (AAI), which, if severe, causes myelopathy and neurological deterioration. Children with DS and AAI who undergo cervical spine fusion have a high rate of nonunion requiring revision surgery. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein–2 (rhBMP-2) is a TGF-β growth factor that is used to induce bone formation in spine fusion. Although previous studies in the adult population have reported no reduction in pseudarthrosis rates with the use of rhBMP-2, there is a lack of literature in the pediatric DS population. This study describes the use of rhBMP-2 in children with DS and AAI during revision to treat nonunion.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a cervical spine fusion database (n = 175) was conducted. This database included all cervical spine fusions using modern instrumentation at the authors’ institution from 2002 to 2019. Patients with DS who underwent a revision utilizing rhBMP-2 were included in the study. The number of prior fusions, use of rhBMP-2 in fusions, length of stay, halo use, and surgical data were collected. Postoperative complications and length of follow-up were also recorded.

RESULTS

Eight patients (75% female) met the inclusion criteria. The average age at revision with rhBMP-2 was 11 years (range 3–19 years). All patients were diagnosed with nonunion after an initial cervical fusion. All revisions were posterior fusions of C1–2 (n = 2) or occiput to cervical (n = 6). All revisions included implant revisions, iliac crest bone grafting, and rhBMP-2 use. One patient required irrigation and debridement of an rhBMP-induced seroma. Another patient required return to the operating room to repair a dural tear. There were no neurological, infectious, airway, or implant-related complications. Revision utilizing rhBMP-2 achieved fusion in 100% (n = 8) of patients. The average length of follow-up was 42.6 months. All patients demonstrated solid fusion mass on the last radiograph.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first case series reporting the successful use of rhBMP-2 to facilitate cervical spine fusion in patients with DS after previous nonunion. In addition, few rhBMP-2–related postoperative complications occurred.
Analysis of human emboli and thrombectomy forces in large-vessel occlusion stroke
Authors: Liu Yang , Zheng Yihao , Reddy Adithya S. , Gebrezgiabhier Daniel , Davis Evan , Cockrum Joshua , Gemmete Joseph J. , Chaudhary Neeraj , Griauzde Julius M. , Pandey Aditya S. , Shih Albert J. , Savastano Luis E.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

This study’s purpose was to improve understanding of the forces driving the complex mechanical interaction between embolic material and current stroke thrombectomy devices by analyzing the histological composition and strength of emboli retrieved from patients and by evaluating the mechanical forces necessary for retrieval of such emboli in a middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation model.

METHODS

Embolus analogs (EAs) were generated and embolized under physiological pressure and flow conditions in a glass tube model of the MCA. The forces involved in EA removal using conventional endovascular techniques were described, analyzed, and categorized. Then, 16 embolic specimens were retrieved from 11 stroke patients with large-vessel occlusions, and the tensile strength and response to stress were measured with a quasi-static uniaxial tensile test using a custom-made platform. Embolus compositions were analyzed and quantified by histology.

RESULTS

Uniaxial tension on the EAs led to deformation, elongation, thinning, fracture, and embolization. Uniaxial tensile testing of patients’ emboli revealed similar soft-material behavior, including elongation under tension and differential fracture patterns. At the final fracture of the embolus (or dissociation), the amount of elongation, quantified as strain, ranged from 1.05 to 4.89 (2.41 ± 1.04 [mean ± SD]) and the embolus-generated force, quantified as stress, ranged from 63 to 2396 kPa (569 ± 695 kPa). The ultimate tensile strain of the emboli increased with a higher platelet percentage, and the ultimate tensile stress increased with a higher fibrin percentage and decreased with a higher red blood cell percentage.

CONCLUSIONS

Current thrombectomy devices remove emboli mostly by applying linear tensile forces, under which emboli elongate until dissociation. Embolus resistance to dissociation is determined by embolus strength, which significantly correlates with composition and varies within and among patients and within the same thrombus. The dynamic intravascular weakening of emboli during removal may lead to iatrogenic embolization.
Exemplary mentorship in action: Harvey Cushing’s trainees from 1912 to 1919
Authors: Catalino Michael P. , Laws Edward R.
Published: March 2020

Harvey Cushing overcame tremendous obstacles to his personal and professional development from 1912 to 1919. These trials could have jeopardized the early and necessary formation of the Society of Neurological Surgeons in 1920. War separated young neurosurgeons pursuing the advancement of this “special field,” but Cushing’s principled mentoring of these aspiring surgeons in the midst of this demanding time was unwavering. This historical vignette is a collection of stories composed to highlight certain trainees during this period in his career. It also puts the mentoring relationship into a context that is often encountered today. There is much to learn from those who endure trials of any kind, but there is much more to learn from those, like Cushing, who inspire perseverance in others during their trials.
Hyperostosing sphenoid wing meningiomas: surgical outcomes and strategy for bone resection and multidisciplinary orbital reconstruction
Authors: Dalle Ore Cecilia L. , Magill Stephen T. , Rodriguez Rubio Roberto , Shahin Maryam N. , Aghi Manish K. , Theodosopoulos Philip V. , Villanueva-Meyer Javier E. , Kersten Robert C. , Idowu Oluwatobi O. , Vagefi M. Reza , McDermott Michael W.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Hyperostosing sphenoid wing meningiomas cause bony hyperostosis that may extend into the orbit, resulting in proptosis, restriction of extraocular movements, and/or compressive optic neuropathy. The extent of bony removal necessary and the optimal reconstruction strategy to prevent enophthalmos is debated. Herein, the authors present their surgical outcomes and reconstruction results.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of 54 consecutive patients undergoing resection of sphenoid wing meningiomas associated with bony hyperostosis. The majority of cases were operated on by the senior author. Extent of tumor resection, volumetric bone resection, radiographic exophthalmos index, complications, and recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median age of the cohort was 52.1 years, with women comprising 83% of patients. Proptosis was a presenting symptom in 74%, and 52% had decreased visual acuity. The WHO grade was I (85%) or II (15%). The median follow-up was 2.6 years. On volumetric analysis, a median 86% of hyperostotic bone was resected. Gross-total resection of the intracranial tumor was achieved in 43% and the orbital tumor in 27%, and of all intracranial and orbital components in 20%. Orbital reconstruction was performed in 96% of patients. Postoperative vision was stable or improved in 98% of patients and diplopia improved in 89%. Postoperative complications occurred in 44% of patients, and 26% of patients underwent additional surgery for complication management. The most frequent complications were medical complications and extraocular movement deficits. The median preoperative exophthalmos index was 1.26, which improved to 1.12 immediately postoperatively and to 1.09 at the 6-month follow-up (p < 0.001). Postoperatively, 18 patients (33%) underwent adjuvant radiotherapy after subtotal resection. Tumors recurred/progressed in 12 patients (22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Resection of hyperostosing sphenoid wing meningiomas, particularly achieving gross-total resection of hyperostotic bone with a good aesthetic result, is challenging and associated with notable medical and ocular morbidity. Recurrence rates in this series are higher than previously reported. Nevertheless, the authors were able to attain improvement in proptosis and visual symptoms in the majority of patients by using a multidisciplinary approach.
Feasibility and performance of a frameless stereotactic system for targeting subcortical nuclei in nonhuman primates
Authors: Branco de Paiva Felipe , Campbell Brett A. , Frizon Leonardo A. , Martin Adriana , Maldonado-Naranjo Andres , Machado André G. , Baker Kenneth B.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective therapy for different neurological diseases, despite the lack of comprehension of its mechanism of action. The use of nonhuman primates (NHPs) has been historically important in advancing this field and presents a unique opportunity to uncover the therapeutic mechanisms of DBS, opening the way for optimization of current applications and the development of new ones. To be informative, research using NHPs should make use of appropriate electrode implantation tools. In the present work, the authors report on the feasibility and accuracy of targeting different deep brain regions in NHPs using a commercially available frameless stereotactic system (microTargeting platform).

METHODS

Seven NHPs were implanted with DBS electrodes, either in the subthalamic nucleus or in the cerebellar dentate nucleus. A microTargeting platform was designed for each animal and used to guide implantation of the electrode. Imaging studies were acquired preoperatively for each animal, and were subsequently analyzed by two independent evaluators to estimate the electrode placement error (EPE). The interobserver variability was assessed as well.

RESULTS

The radial and vector components of the EPE were estimated separately. The magnitude of the vector of EPE was 1.29 ± 0.41 mm and the mean radial EPE was 0.96 ± 0.63 mm. The interobserver variability was considered negligible.

CONCLUSIONS

These results reveal the suitability of this commercial system to enhance the surgical insertion of DBS leads in the primate brain, in comparison to rigid traditional frames. Furthermore, our results open up the possibility of performing frameless stereotaxy in primates without the necessity of relying on expensive methods based on intraoperative imaging.
Neonatal hydrocephalus leads to white matter neuroinflammation and injury in the corpus callosum of Ccdc39 hydrocephalic mice
Authors: Goulding Danielle S. , Vogel R. Caleb , Pandya Chirayu D. , Shula Crystal , Gensel John C. , Mangano Francesco T. , Goto June , Miller Brandon A.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to determine if hydrocephalus caused a proinflammatory state within white matter as is seen in many other forms of neonatal brain injury. Common causes of hydrocephalus (such as trauma, infection, and hemorrhage) are inflammatory insults themselves and therefore confound understanding of how hydrocephalus itself affects neuroinflammation. Recently, a novel animal model of hydrocephalus due to a genetic mutation in the Ccdc39 gene has been developed in mice. In this model, ciliary dysfunction leads to early-onset ventriculomegaly, astrogliosis, and reduced myelination. Because this model of hydrocephalus is not caused by an antecedent proinflammatory insult, it was utilized to study the effect of hydrocephalus on inflammation within the white matter of the corpus callosum.

METHODS

A Meso Scale Discovery assay was used to measure levels of proinflammatory cytokines in whole brain from animals with and without hydrocephalus. Immunohistochemistry was used to measure macrophage activation and NG2 expression within the white matter of the corpus callosum in animals with and without hydrocephalus.

RESULTS

In this model of hydrocephalus, levels of cytokines throughout the brain revealed a more robust increase in classic proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]–1β, CXCL1) than in immunomodulatory cytokines (IL-10). Increased numbers of macrophages were found within the corpus callosum. These macrophages were polarized toward a proinflammatory phenotype as assessed by higher levels of CD86, a marker of proinflammatory macrophages, compared to CD206, a marker for antiinflammatory macrophages. There was extensive structural damage to the corpus callosum of animals with hydrocephalus, and an increase in NG2-positive cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Hydrocephalus without an antecedent proinflammatory insult induces inflammation and tissue injury in white matter. Future studies with this model will be useful to better understand the effects of hydrocephalus on neuroinflammation and progenitor cell development. Antiinflammatory therapy for diseases that cause hydrocephalus may be a powerful strategy to reduce tissue damage.
Diagnostic accuracy of CT scan–based criteria compared with surgical exploration for the analysis of cervical fusion and nonunion
Authors: van Bilsen Martine W. T. , Ullrich Christopher , Ferraris Luis , Hempfing Axel , Hitzl Wolfgang , Mayer Michael , Koller Heiko
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Computed tomography (CT) scans are accepted as the imaging standard of reference to define union after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). However, ideal CT criteria to diagnose union have not been identified or validated. The objective of this study was to analyze the diagnostic value of 9 CT-based criteria and identify the ideal criteria among them to assess cervical fusion after ACDF using surgical exploration as the standard of reference.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective radiographic study of a single surgeon’s prospective assessment of osseous fusion during cervical revision surgery by analyzing complete radiographic data in 44 patients who underwent anterior cervical revision surgery due to symptomatic suspected nonunion or adjacent level disease. All patients received standard preoperative CT scans, which were assessed by an independent radiologist to evaluate 9 diagnostic criteria for osseous union. During revision surgery, scar tissue was removed and manual segmental translation tests were performed. Nonunion was defined by visualized motion at the treated ACDF level.

RESULTS

In total, 44 patients were included in the study (30 men; patient age 54 ± 6 years, BMI 28 ± 5 kg/m2). For analysis of fusion, 75 cervical levels were explored, of which 61 levels (81%) showed intraoperative movement indicating nonunion. Statistical analysis showed that of the 9 parameters used to diagnose bone union, “bridging bone on ≥ 3 CT slices” yielded the highest sensitivity (100%) and specificity (58%). Multivariate analysis revealed that prediction accuracy was not increased if several criteria were combined to determine fusion.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors found that the best indicator of bone union was the item bridging bone on ≥ 3 CT slices. Combining the scoring of more than one criterion did not increase the diagnostic accuracy.
The efficacy of somatosensory evoked potentials in evaluating new neurological deficits after spinal thoracic fusion and decompression
Authors: Melachuri Samyuktha R. , Stopera Carolyn , Melachuri Manasa K. , Anetakis Katherine , Crammond Donald J. , Castellano James F. , Balzer Jeffrey R. , Thirumala Parthasarathy D.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE

Posterior thoracic fusion (PTF) is used as a surgical treatment for a wide range of pathologies. The monitoring of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) is used to detect and prevent injury during many neurological surgeries. The authors conducted a study to evaluate the efficacy of SSEPs in predicting perioperative lower-extremity (LE) neurological deficits during spinal thoracic fusion surgery.

METHODS

The authors included patients who underwent PTF with SSEP monitoring performed throughout the entire surgery from 2010 to 2015 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). The sensitivity, specificity, odds ratio, and receiver operating characteristic curve were calculated to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of SSEP changes in predicting postoperative deficits. Univariate analysis was completed to determine the impact of age exceeding 65 years, sex, obesity, abnormal baseline testing, surgery type, and neurological deficits on the development of intraoperative changes.

RESULTS

From 2010 to 2015, 771 eligible patients underwent SSEP monitoring during PTF at UPMC. Univariate and linear regression analyses showed that LE SSEP changes significantly predicted LE neurological deficits. Significant changes in LE SSEPs had a sensitivity and specificity of 19% and 96%, respectively, in predicting LE neurological deficits. The diagnostic odds ratio for patients with new LE neurological deficits who had significant changes in LE SSEPs was 5.86 (95% CI 2.74–12.5). However, the results showed that a loss of LE waveforms had a poor predictive value for perioperative LE deficits (diagnostic OR 1.58 [95% CI 0.19–12.83]).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with new postoperative LE neurological deficits are 5.9 times more likely to have significant changes in LE SSEPs during PTF. Surgeon awareness of an LE SSEP loss may alter surgical strategy and positively impact rates of postoperative LE neurological deficit status. The relatively poor sensitivity of LE SSEP monitoring may indicate a need for multimodal neurophysiological monitoring, including motor evoked potentials, in thoracic fusion surgery.
Application of FRP (Fire Radiative Power) to estimate the emission of radionuclides into the atmosphere due to forest fires in the Exclusion Zone in April 2020
Authors:   Institute for Safety Problems of Nuclear Power Plants, NAS of Ukraine, Таlerko M. M.
Published: March 2020

A method is proposed for assessing the activity of radionuclides released into the atmosphere during forest and meadow fires in radioactively contaminated areas, based on using satellite measurement data of the fire radiative power (FRP), as well as data on the radionuclide deposition density in the fire area and the value of the emission factor Cr of the activity of aerosol particles formed during fires. The method was applied for forest fires in the Exclusion Zone in April 2020. The used FRP values were obtained from MOD14 (Terra) / MYD14 (Aqua) for MODIS Collection 6, VIIRS (S-NPP) I Band 375 m and VIIRS (NOAA-20/JPSS-1) I Band 375 m AF products of the Fire Information for Resource Management System (NASA). A comparative analysis of the data of these satellites showed that the spatio-temporal dynamics of the spread of fire areas in the Exclusion Zone is better reproduced by the results of VIIRS radiometer measurements. Using the satellite data, calculations of fire radiative energy (FRE) were made taking into account the daily course of aerosol emission intensity. Preliminary estimates of the Cr value were obtained as 9.5 ⋅ 10-4 m2 /MJ for 137Cs. These results should be considered as preliminary estimates now. In the general case, the emission factor for radioactive aerosols Cr should depend on the geographical region, type of vegetation and land use in the fire area. Its value may be clarified both by the results of retrospective studies of forest fires in recent years in radioactively contaminated areas, and by specially conducted experiments (in particular, measurements of the specific activity of aerosol particles formed during fires). The proposed method enables operational assessments and prediction of the consequences of forest fires, including model assessments of the atmospheric transport of radioactive aerosols and assessments of exposure doses to the personnel of the Exclusion Zone and the population outside it using online computer-based decision support systems for protecting people from the effects of radioactive contamination of the environment.
A Case of Logopenic Variant of Primary Progressive Aphasia with Parkinsonism and Anosmia
Authors: Sasaki Shoichi
Published: March 2020

A 69-year-old right-handed woman developed difficulty naming objects and word-finding. The clinical features of language disorder and predominant atrophy on MRI and predominant hypoperfusion on 123I-IMP SPECT in the left temporo-parietal junction area were consistent with the diagnostic criteria for the logopenic variant of primary progressive aphasia (lvPPA). Neurological examination showed slight right-side rigidity and resting tremor (UPDRS-III: 4). 123I-FP-CIT SPECT showed presynaptic dopamine transporter reduction in the posterior putamina with left-side predominance. The odor-stick identification test for Japanese exhibited complete loss of the sense of smell (anosmia). These findings suggest that lvPPA may be accompanied by parkinsonism and anosmia.
Reliability, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change of the star excursion balance test in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Kim Do-Hyun , An Duk-Hyun , Yoo Won-Gyu
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to estimate the reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum detectable change (MDC) of the star excursion balance test (SEBT) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Eight children with CP (five boys and three girls, sixteen legs) participated in this study. Each child carried out the SEBT and was assessed by two examiners. To determine intra-rater reliability, the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) model (3, 3) was calculated. To determine the inter-rater reliability, the ICC model (2, 3) was computed. RESULTS: In terms of the intra-rater reliability of the SEBT, the ICC varied from 0.98 to 0.99 and the total ICC score was 0.99 (p< 0.001). For the inter-rater reliability, the ICC varied from 0.98 to 1.00 and the total ICC score was 0.99 (p< 0.001). The SEBT had an SEM of 2.63 and an MDC of 7.31. CONCLUSION: The SEBT is not only reliable with a small SEM, but is also a simple and cheap assessment of dynamic balance in children with CP.
Effects of individualised training programmes based on the force-velocity imbalance on physical performance in rugby players
Authors: Zabaloy Santiago , Pareja-Blanco Fernando , Giráldez Julián C. , Rasmussen Juan I. , González Javier Gálvez
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND:

The use of force-velocity imbalance (Fvimb) has been proposed as an effective method for prescribing training loads aiming to enhance physical performance.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to analyse the effects on lower body strength, jump and sprint performance of different individualised resistance training (RT) programmes based on Fvimb in rugby players.

METHODS:

Thirty-four senior rugby players were divided into four groups according to their Fvimb: Not individualised (NI, [Formula: see text] 8), velocity imbalance (Vimb, [Formula: see text] 6), force imbalance (Fimb, [Formula: see text] 11) and well balanced (WB, [Formula: see text] 9). The intervention period consisted of a 7-week resistance, plyometric and sprint training programme performed twice a week. Pre- and Post-training measures included Force-velocity (Fv) profile, countermovement jump (CMJ), 30 m sprint test and estimated one-repetition maximum in squat (1RM-SQ).

RESULTS:

Significant “group” [Formula: see text] “time” interactions ([Formula: see text] 0.05) were observed for theoretical maximal velocity (V0), theoretical maximal force (F0), and Fvimb. No significant “group” [Formula: see text] “time” interactions were observed for the rest of variables analysed. The Vimb group significantly ([Formula: see text] 0.05) increased V0, whereas decreased F0 and Fvimb. The Fimb group showed significant ([Formula: see text] 0.05) decreases in V0, whereas increased F0 and Fvimb. The WB and NI groups did not show significant changes in these parameters. The WB group induced significant enhancements in 10 m, 20 m, and 30 m sprint times, maximum sprint speed and sprint momentum (SM), whereas Fimb attained significant changes in 20 m and 30 m sprint times. The NI group attained significant improvements ([Formula: see text] 0.05) in SM. No significant changes were observed for 1RM-SQ and jump performance.

CONCLUSION:

Individualised RT programs based on Fvimb induced improvements in sprint performance. Moreover, individualised RT programs based on Fvimb induced better adjustments of the Fv profile to the theoretical “optimal” Fv profile, although any group improved SQ strength, jump height or maximum power.
Cdk5 Inhibitory Peptide Prevents Loss of Neurons and Alleviates Behavioral Changes in p25 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Huang Yaowei , Huang Wei , Huang Yingwei , Song Pingping , Zhang Melanie , Zhang Han-Ting , Pan Suyue , Hu Yafang
Published: March 2020

Background:

Accumulation of p25 is thought to be a causative risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). As a cleaved product of p35, p25 binds to cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) and leads to the hyperactivity of Cdk5. Then, Cdk5/p25 phosphorylates many pathological substrates related to neurodegenerative diseases. p25 transgenic (Tg) mouse model recaptures some pathological changes of AD, including tau hyperphosphorylation, neurofibrillary tangles, neuroinflammation, and neuronal death, which can be prevented by transgenic expression of Cdk5 inhibitory peptide (CIP) before the insult of p25.

Objective:

In the present study, we would like to know whether adeno-associated virus serotype-9 (AAV9)-mediated CIP can protect neurons after insult of p25 in p25Tg mice.

Methods:

Administration of AAV9-CIP or control virus were delivered in the brain of p25Tg mice via intracerebroventricular infusions following the induction of p25. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assessment, and animal behavioral evaluation were performed.

Results:

Brain atrophy, neuronal death, tau phosphorylation and inflammation in the hippocampus, and cognitive decline were observed in p25Tg mice. Administration of CIP but not the control virus in p25Tg mice reduced levels of tau phosphorylation and inflammation in the hippocampus, which is correlated with inhibition of brain atrophy and neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus, and improvement of cognitive decline.

Conclusion:

Our results provide further evidence that the neurotoxicity of p25 can be alleviated by CIP.
Alemtuzumab for relapsing multiple sclerosis in clinical practice: A four-year retrospective one-center study
Authors: Rodríguez de Castro Belén , Pampín Sánchez Rubén , Tembrás Martinez Sonia , Ayastuy Ruiz Aitor , Martínez-Múgica Barbosa Cristina
Published: March 2020

Background: Disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis have been developed tremendously over the last two decades. Objective: The aim of this study was to review the short-, medium-, and long-term safety of alemtuzumab in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Method: This retrospective observational study (2015–2019) included all patients with highly active or rapidly progressing and aggressive RRMS who were treated with alemtuzumab at the Cabueñes University Hospital. The short-, medium-, and long-term adverse effects were evaluated following the risk management program of the European Medicines Agency. Results: 39 patients were included, 23 of them received at least two cycles of treatment. Most patients showed at least one adverse event. The following adverse reactions were reported: infusional reactions (17), urinary tract infections (six), thrombopenia (five), and thyroid dysfunction (six). Conclusion: In clinical practice alemtuzumab showed an acceptable safety profile in selected patients even if all of them suffered at least one adverse effect. Thorough and prolonged follow-up is required to further confirm the safety of this drug.
Development of a prenatal clinical care pathway for uncomplicated gastroschisis and literature review
Authors: Chabra Shilpi , Peterson Suzanne E. , Cheng Edith Y.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND:

Gastroschisis is an abdominal wall defect wherein the bowel is herniated into the amniotic fluid. Controversy exists regarding optimal prenatal surveillance strategies that predict fetal well-being and help guide timing of delivery. Our objective was to develop a clinical care pathway for prenatal management of uncomplicated gastroschisis at our institution.

METHODS:

We performed a review of literature from January 1996 to May 2017 to evaluate prenatal ultrasound (US) markers and surveillance strategies that help determine timing of delivery and optimize outcomes in fetal gastroschisis.

RESULTS:

A total 63 relevant articles were identified. We found that among the US markers, intraabdominal bowel dilatation, polyhydramnios, and gastric dilatation are potentially associated with postnatal complications. Prenatal surveillance strategy with monthly US starting at 28weeks of gestational age (wGA) and twice weekly non-stress testing beginning at 32wGA is recommended to optimize fetal wellbeing. Timing of delivery should be based on obstetric indications and elective preterm delivery prior to 37wGA is not indicated.

CONCLUSIONS:

Close prenatal surveillance of fetal gastroschisis is necessary due to the high risk for adverse outcomes including intrauterine fetal demise in the third trimester. Decisions regarding the timing of delivery should take into consideration the additional prematurity-associated morbidity.
Real-time visualization to improve quality in computer mediated communication
Authors: Thoms Brian , Eryilmaz Evren , Dubin Nicole , Hernandez Rafael , Colon-Cerezo Sara
Published: March 2020

Within conversational media, how others perceive contributions affects his or her interactions with those contributions. This research explores a novel addition to conversational software, one that provides real-time assessment of quality across user contributions. An analysis of 2,157 online conversations examined attributes of quality, including lexical complexity and prompt-specific vocabulary. These factors helped to inform the redesign of an existing asynchronous online discussion board (AOD). More specifically, a real-time quality analyzer was constructed, which provides users with a visual breakdown of their post in relation to the overall group discussion thread. An experiment across two populations was performed and results found that the system increased overall levels of quality in conversations, while also increasing quality interactions across the system. The results were supplemented with survey data and a social network analysis (SNA), which discovered higher levels of system satisfaction and group cohesion.
A Survey on Shape Representations
Authors: Shana C Fathima , Joseph Philumon
Published: March 2020

Geometric structures have an important role in shape analysis. The reconstruction problem is an active and challenging problem due to its ill-posed nature. It has various applications in the fields of computational geometry, computer vision, computer graphics, image processing, medical fields, and pattern recognition. There exist a few challenges in approximating the shape of a point set. First, it is unclear that which geometric shape approximates the optimal shape due to mathematical inconvenience. Second, the point set shapes are highly subjective and often depend on a specific application context or other human cognitive factors. As a consequence, the shapes perceived by humans for a majority of point sets vary and reaching a conclusion on the optimum shape is an extremely difficult task. The rich variety of shapes available in nature and the heterogeneity of point sets further weaken a well-defined formulation of the shape approximation problem.
Technique to Thwart Brute-Force Attack : A Survey
Authors: James Lijimol , E D Dileesh
Published: March 2020

Most encryption techniques have one essential problem that is they are vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Techniques used to prevent brute force attacks are increasing password length, password complexity, limit login attempts, using captcha, two factor authentication etc. A new mechanism to prevent against brute-force attack was introduced and this mechanism is known as Deception Model. Deception-based security mechanisms focus on altering adversaries perception in a way that can confuse them and waste their time and resources. This technique exploit adversaries biases and present them with a plausible looking but fake data. This technique can be used to serve for encrypting e-mail messages, human-generated messages and documents that are stored at different platforms. This paper will offer an detailed study of the current situation of Deception Model.
Design and Fabrication of 5 Ton Hydraulic Press Machine
Authors: Khatib Mohammed Iqbal , Ahmed Roshan Zameer , Uddin Md Saud , Abdul Rahman Mohammad , Shareef Mohd Rahman , Akber Syed , Khan Majid , Shaikh Shahin
Published: March 2020

A hydraulic press is a machine using a hydraulic cylinder to generate a compressive force. Frame, hydraulic cylinder and press table are the main components of the hydraulic press. In this project press frame, cylinder and press table are designed by the design procedure. They are analyzed to improve their performance and quality for press working operation. Using the optimum resources possible in designing the hydraulic press components can effect reduction in the cost by optimizing the weight of material utilized for building the structure. An attempt has been made in this direction to reduce the volume of material. So in this paper we consider an industrial application project consisting of mass minimization of H frame type hydraulic press. This press has to compensate the forces acting on the working plates and has to fulfill certain critical constraints. Here we use implementation for analysis and optimization of hydraulic press. The aim of this paper is to integrate the mechanical system of hydraulic press with hydraulic system to facilitate the ease of operation to manufacture the smaller parts in a bulk. In the present scenario, time constrain is a crucial part for completion of any production process. Thus with the aid of automization, the production time can be reduced as well as higher degree of accuracy can be achieved as the human efforts will be alleviated. Thus an attempt has been made to provide the smooth and rapid functioning of press work with the help of hydraulic system.
Mopo'a Huta on Peasant Community: A Ritual for Harmony with Nature in Molamahu Village of Gorontalo Regency - Indonesia
Authors: Hunowu Momy A. , Pakuna Hatim B. , Lahaji Prof , Obie Muhammad
Published: March 2020

This study analyzed the concepts of nature and its inhabitants, as well as the actions of peasants creating harmony with nature. This study used a qualitative approach with ethnographic methods. The data collected was mostly primary data obtained through in-depth interviews and passive participation observation. To support primary data, the researchers also collected secondary data, such as publications and previous research reports. In analyzing the data, the researchers made interview transcripts, data reduction, analysis, data interpretation, and triangulation. The results found that the peasant community believed in supernatural beings as part of the forces of nature. It can do anything depending on the relationships built by the community. Mopo’a Huta ritual is the human action to create harmony with nature. The ritual begins with a procession of dance accompanied by drum beats for several nights. On the last day, offerings are prepared to entertain supernatural beings. With this banquet, the peasant community hopes that spirits no longer disturb them so that peace and prosperity can be created.
Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activity of N-Substituted-1,3,4-Oxadiazole Derivatives
Authors: Dhondising Rajput Manisha , Magdum. C. S. , Mohite S. K. , Kane S. R.
Published: March 2020

The new series oxadiazole derivatives were prepared by reacting aromatic carboxylic acids.In the present work 10 different 5-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazole -2-amine derivatives (3a -i) were synthesized. Substituted carboxylic acid is converted into substituted ethyl benzoate by esterification. Different ethyl benzoate is converted into different aroyl hydrazide by treating with hydrazine hydrate.The different aroyl hydrazide is converted 5-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-amine derivatives by treating with cyanogen bromide.Confirmation of the chemical structure of the synthesized compounds was substantiated by TLC,IR,1H NMR, and MS spectroscopy.In present study,a series of 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives(3a- i)were evaluated for in vivo anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced paw edema method. The results of anti-inflammatory evaluation revealed that compounds 3c, 3e and3i exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity at a dose of 25 mg kg-1 compared to indomethacin used as the reference standard.The anti-inflammatory activity investigation highlights that the synthesized compound 3e could be considered for further clinical studies.
CORS系统建设过程中数据传输相关问题探讨
Authors: 秦 佳音 , 冯 顺 , 刘 子渐
Published: March 2020

在此次研究中,针对CORS系统建设期间存在的数据传输问题展开了系统性探讨,以确保基准站运行的稳定与正常。
浅谈土地开发项目竣工图测绘的技术流程及其精度指标
Authors: 黄 霞林 , 王 立成
Published: March 2020

竣工图是土地开发项目工程实施完成后地形、地貌和地物真实的反映,也是项目竣工验收的主要图件资料。竣工图的成果质量直接影响着工程量的审计。本文就土地开发项目竣工图测绘的技术流程及其精度指标作了比较全面的阐述。
新形势下宅基地管理的难点及对策
Authors: 刘 丛洲 , 杨 菁
Published: March 2020

随着经济的不断发展,对于住房规划和人员变动,我国提出了宅基地管理的新政策,同时,针对过去出现的宅基地管理难点,也会对这些难点提出针对性的解决政策,难点得到解决之后,宅基地也就得到了合理规划。本文从新形势下宅基地管理的现状出发,讲述了新形势下宅基地管理的因素,并说明了新形势下进行宅基地管理的对策,最后对新形势下宅基地管理做了总结。
综合物探方法在格尔木市妥拉海河一带石墨矿勘查中的应用
Authors: 星 学银
Published: March 2020

青海省格尔木市妥拉海河一带石墨矿为近几年新发现的一处晶质石墨矿床,矿体以品质高、厚度大、延伸稳定为主要特征。勘查区第四系覆盖面积较广,通过1:1万自电剖面测量大致圈定了矿化带分布范围,在矿化有利部位通过1:1万激电剖面测量确定矿体分布位置。分析自然电位、视极化率、视电阻率特征值大致确定了石墨矿体形态、规模、深部延深情况,综合物探方法在勘查中取得了较好的找矿指导效果。
测绘地理信息在智慧城市建设中的作用探究
Authors: 姚 刚
Published: March 2020

随着人们对于生活的要求的提高,越来越多的人们涌入城市,城市化的水平不断的提高,因此对于城市用地的扩张也是十分重要的。但是并不是所有的地形都适合用作城市用地,并且时代的发展与进步对于城市的发展也提出了一些新的要求,在这种情况下测绘地理信息技术被广泛运用。本文就测绘地理信息在智慧城市建设中的作用进行了探究。
锡矿山残矿资源开采方案选择研究
Authors: 张 建福
Published: March 2020

随着我国锡矿资源储量降低,残矿回采成为了当下锡矿生产的重要方式。通过深度挖掘锡残矿潜力,可实现较为可观的经济效益。近些年通过研究锡矿山残矿资源开采的具体方案,从而探索出诸多针对此类难以开采的锡残矿的应用技术,其中主要包括有底柱中深孔崩落法及无底柱中深孔崩落法,值得在锡残矿开发生产中加以推广。此类方法具有易操作、安全可行、成本低廉等优点,可作为类似锡残矿开采提供一定的参考价值。
煤矿通风系统中自动化控制技术的应用探讨
Authors: 鄢 耀
Published: March 2020

近年来,随着经济社会的发展,技术的进步改变了煤矿行业的发展模式,在可持续发展的背景下,煤矿行业面临着产业结构的升级与调整。自动化控制技术在煤矿通风系统中的应用大大提升了煤矿生产的安全性。通风系统保持了安全的生产环境,自动化控制技术的应用提升了通风系统运行的可靠性。基于此,本文分析了自动化技术在通风系统中的具体应用,有利于煤矿安全作业的实现。
论新形势下自动化技术在机械设计制造中的应用研讨
Authors: 刘 乙慧
Published: March 2020

新形势下,科学技术飞速发展带动了各行各业的改革创新,从机械设计制造行业的现状分析,先进技术手段的普及和应用,在很大程度上促进了行业的稳定和发展,自动化技术就是其中一个比较突出的部分,将自动化技术应用到机械设计制造领域,能够促进机械设计制造水平的提高,提升产品精度及质量,也因此受到了相关技术人员的重视。
地质勘查中铅锌矿找矿技术研究
Authors: 黄 若龙
Published: March 2020

现目前,我国的经济发展的非常迅速,我国的工业在经济的发展中起到了关键作用,然而支撑我国工业的发展的重要的一个因素就是矿业。我国的矿随着经济的发展被利用的越来越多,导致我国的现目前的铅锌矿的含量越来越少。本文通过对地质勘察中铅锌矿找矿技术的探讨研究,进而找到跟好的方法去寻找铅锌矿。
刍议遥感航测技术在地图测绘中的应用
Authors: 祁 晓卫
Published: March 2020

地图测绘技术是当前阶段一项对于工作的准确性要求较高的工作,随着国民经济的发展和进步,地图测绘的工作也发挥着越来越重要的作用,按照科学方式进行地图测绘工作,不但要求地理位置的准确,同时测绘工作的精度要求也较高。而遥感技术在地图测绘工作中的应用,能够大幅度提升地图测绘工作的精密度,同时能够进一步优化地图测绘工作的速度。本文就遥感航测技术在地图测绘中的应用进行讨论,并对该项技术的具体应用进行分析。
基于Landsat数据的绵阳市涪城区城市热岛效应研究
Authors: 孙 姣姣 , 郑 洁 , 陈 志宇
Published: March 2020

工业革命之后,城市化进程加快,城市环境污染问题也日益演严重,其中最明显的表现就是热岛效应,即城区地表和大气温度高于非城区。如何识别其形成过程和空间特征,分析其时空变化,有助于探索缓解城市热岛效应的措施。考虑Landsat系列陆地卫星具有光谱特性强、高分辨率、数据丰富、获取方便等优势,本文选取2008年,2013年和2018年绵阳地区的 Landsat系列影像作为主要数据来源,运用大气校正法对绵阳市的地表温度进行反演,在地表温度归一化的基础上应用密度分割,划分出六个温度等级,并对反演温度变化趋势进行分析。结果显示研究区极端温度占比有所减小,10年来城市热岛效应在2013年的短暂缓解后存在较大的反弹,最后,提出了加强城市绿化建设,建设生态城市体系,缓解城市热岛效应的建议。
高寒冻土条件下CSAMT在地热勘探中的试验研究
Authors: 祝 杰 , 李 平 , 刘 应冬
Published: March 2020

地热作为新的清洁能源越来越受到重视和开发。我国地热资源储量丰富,尤其紧邻城市周围,地热利用率高,经济和社会效益潜力巨大。地热田勘查以电磁法为主,电阻率的异常幅值一般能指示地热田的赋存状况。本文以探测深度大、分辨力高等为特点的可控源音频大地电磁法为例,阐述了在高原冻土条件下寻找城市周边埋藏较深的传导型地热的成功实例。
GPS技术在测量工程中的应用及其精度控制
Authors: 窦 志云
Published: March 2020

在现代化城市建设日益推进的大背景下,我国工程项目建设规模在不断扩大,很多先进技术在工程项目建设中得到了有效应用,GPS技术作为一种新兴技术,在工程测绘中发挥着重要作用,有利于提高工程测量的精确度,改善传统工程测量技术中数据不准确、人力和物力等资源浪费的问题。因此,在工程测绘过程中,相关部门需要引进GPS技术,提高工程测绘的精确度,文章主要对GPS技术在测量工程中的应用及其精度控制进行了研究。
碳酸钙粉体加工及应用
Authors: 黎 玲
Published: March 2020

在工业化进程不断加快下,生产工艺不断改进和创新；多数的企业选择干法工艺进行碳酸钙粉体加工生产,其中只有少数大型企业配备了现代化生产车间和工艺。市场上多数企业的自动化生产水平,及配套的生产设施和工艺滞后,生产中资源损耗和环境污染严重,容易威胁到人们的健康。本文就碳酸钙粉体加工和应用展开分析,把握技术要点,持续优化和改进工艺的不足,提升碳酸钙粉体加工效率,更大范围推广应用。
非金属矿物粉体加工技术的现状与发展
Authors: 李 媛
Published: March 2020

现代社会飞快发展下,人们环保意识不断提升,兼顾经济发展和环境保护,对于践行可持续发展战略,谋求人类社会可持续发展具有积极作用。非金属矿物粉体作为很多新型材料的主要物质之一,性能合格质量优异,可以大大提升成品价值,对于社会主义现代化建设具有促进作用。非金属矿物粉体加工技术经过长期发展和创新,逐渐实现规模化生产,生产效率大大提升。本文就非金属矿物粉体加工技术现状进行探究,并摸索未来的技术发展趋势,优化市场环境。
第三次全国国土调查中外业调查补测技术方法特点与优化方案
Authors: 薛 玉芹
Published: March 2020

全国国土调查是衡量国内土地资源的重要手段之一,在2018年展开的第三次全国国土调查与前两次相比,更加侧重对外业调查补测技术的应用,相对于前两次调查更具有技术优势。因此,本文以山东省的国土调查为例,对第三次全国国土调查中的外业调查补测技术方法的特点进行了分析,并提出了相应的优化方案。
无人机测绘技术在管线埋深巡查方面的应用
Authors: 范 青青
Published: March 2020

随着科技的发展在石油管线的巡查工作中,应用了无人机这种先进的技术,无人机技术在我国完全都是用在民用项目上,包括播洒农药、电力线网的巡查等,现在无人机测绘技术来进行石油管线的埋深巡查,为石油事业提供了技术支持。
GPS测绘技术在测绘工程中的应用
Authors: 张 更垒
Published: March 2020

随着社会经济的高速发展,各项工程建设项目层出不穷,想要保证工程项目的建设质量,先要做好工程项目的测绘工程,建设单位需要重视其测绘工程,尽量避免出现技术差错,进行精准的技术测绘。目前,我国技术测绘工程中的GPS技术,广泛应用在各大测绘项目中,该技术比传统的技术更加科学精准,但是GPS技术在实际的应用中,也存在诸多不足之处,一定程度上对测绘工程质量造成影响。
GPS控制测绘技术在地理信息系统中的应用
Authors: 邵 芳萍 , 王 佳琦
Published: March 2020

伴随着科学技术发展而产生的,是新生代的科学技术产品。GPS高新卫星定位科技,给我国的科学技术发展带来了新一代的发展浪潮。GPS是一种利用卫星进行准确定位的高科技测绘技术,它既可以对空间上进行准确定位,又可以对地面进行准确定位。涵盖面及广,已经完全取代了传统落后的只定位一个方向的定位仪器。通过GPS控制测绘技术的应用,对于我国的地理信息系统是一次重大性的技术革新。