bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field testing the diagnostic criteria of cluster headache in the third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders: A cross-sectional multicentre study
Authors: Moon Heui-Soo , Cho Soo-Jin , Kim Byung-Kun , Lee Mi Ji , Chung Pil-Wook , Sohn Jong-Hee , Kim Soo-Kyoung , Choi Yun-Ju , Song Tae-Jin , Kim Jae-Moon , Park Jeong Wook , Park Kwang-Yeol , Chung Jae-Myun , Ahn Jin-Young , Kim Byung-Su , Oh Kyungmi , Lee Kwang-Soo , Chung Chin-Sang , Chu Min Kyung
Published: March 2019

Background

*These authors are shared first authors. The recently published third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3) revised the criteria for accompanying symptoms of cluster headache (CH) and the remission period of chronic cluster headache (CCH). This study aimed at testing the validity of the ICHD-3 criteria for CH by using data from the Korean Cluster Headache Registry.

Methods

Consecutive patients with CH and probable cluster headache (PCH) were prospectively recruited from 15 hospitals. We analysed the validity of the revised ICHD-3 criteria for CH against the beta version of the third edition of the ICHD (ICHD-3β).

Results

In total, 193 patients were enrolled: 140 (72.5%), 5 (2.6%) and 22 (11.4%) had episodic cluster headache (ECH), CCH, and PCH, respectively. The remaining 26 (13.5%) had CH with undetermined remission periods. One patient with ECH and one with PCH had only forehead and facial flushing and were diagnosed with PCH and non-cluster headache, respectively, according to the ICHD-3. Four participants with ECH according to the ICHD-3β had remission periods of > 1 month and between 1 and 3 months and were newly diagnosed with CCH according to the ICHD-3.

Conclusion

The change from ICHD-3β to ICHD-3 resulted in few differences in the diagnoses of CH and PCH.
Development of a Hot Mix Asphalt Location Cost Index for the Alabama Department of Transportation
Authors: Xu Keren , Rueda-Benavides Jorge , Pakalapati Karthik Chowdary
Published: March 2019

Asphalt is one of the most critical commodities for the U.S. infrastructure. It is used as a paving material on the majority of roadways across the country. In Alabama, this material is used in approximately 98% of all paved roads, consuming about 40% of the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) annual construction budget. Because of the considerable importance of this material, any improvements in ALDOT’s hot mix asphalt (HMA) cost-estimating procedures are expected to be reflected in better budget control and a more effective use of ALDOT’s limited available resources. This paper presents a HMA Location Cost Index (LCI) intended to contribute to ALDOT’s efforts toward the improvement of its cost-estimating practices. This is an annual LCI aimed to quantify changes in HMA prices among three geographic regions in Alabama: north, central, and south regions. The development of the LCI involved the use of advanced data collection, cleaning, and processing techniques to analyze historical bid data from 3661 projects awarded by ALDOT between 2006 and 2016. The potential contribution of the proposed LCI to improving ALDOT’s current cost-estimating system is demonstrated via statistical significance testing and through the application of an innovative moving-window cross-validation algorithm previously developed by the authors.
Applicability of Modified University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign Model for Unbound Aggregate Material with Different Water Content
Authors: Lin Tianshu , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Luo Bin
Published: March 2019

This paper proposes a modified University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign (UIUC) model to predict permanent deformation behavior of unbound aggregate materials. Most existing models relate permanent deformation to resilient properties, whereas the UIUC model treats shear strength as a critical factor in permanent deformation behavior. Three types of test, monotonic shearing test, cyclic axial loading test, and cyclic axial and shear loading test, were conducted by multi-ring shear apparatus on two kinds of parallel grading aggregate materials, natural crusher-run and recycled crusher-run obtained from demolished concrete structure. Test results demonstrate that shear strength is the core factor in permanent deformation behavior, compared with resilient properties, and principal stress axis rotation (PSAR) greatly increases the permanent deformation. By considering the effect of PSAR on permanent deformation, a new parameter, ( Rs)ave, is added to the conventional UIUC model to modify it. Regression analysis results verify that the modified UIUC model has good applicability for predicting permanent deformation of aggregates with different water contents and stress states, and with and without PSAR. The modified UIUC model builds a relation between test results with and without PSAR. A simple framework is also proposed for predicting permanent deformation in flexible pavement structures based on the modified UIUC model.
Trip-Chain-Based Travel-Mode-Shares-Driven Framework using Cellular Signaling Data and Web-Based Mapping Service Data
Authors: Chen Xiaoxuan , Wan Xia , Li Qing , Ding Fan , McCarthy Charlie , Cheng Yang , Ran Bin
Published: March 2019

The signaling data of cellular phones, as a passively generated, real-time, wide-coverage, and low-cost data source, have been widely used in recent studies to understand human activity and model urban travel demand. However, in contrast with the Global Positioning System (GPS) data, cellular phone signaling data are sparsely distributed in time and space, which makes travel-mode inference a challenge. Recent studies presented methods of deriving users’ home and work locations, origin-destination trips, and other activities. Very few provided a complete and feasible framework for travel-mode derivation with effective validation methods. This paper provides a real-time travel-mode derivation framework using signaling data and a web-based mapping service. A trip-chain model is proposed to detect individual activity patterns and derive the trips of mobile phone users. Then, the travel mode of each trip is identified by a Fuzzy K-Means model, which is trained and validated by the point-to-point travel time from a web-based mapping service. Finally, the travel-mode shares are aggregated and scaled to the whole population of the study area. The framework is demonstrated using cellular signaling data from 1.9 million users in Shanghai, China for seven days, and citywide point-to-point travel times from a web-based mapping service for three of those seven days. Comparing the modeled travel-mode shares with travel survey data and transportation hub statistics demonstrates the plausibility and efficiency of using a large data source (mobile-trace data and web-based mapping) to accurately assess the travel modes of people in a big city using the proposed framework.
Safety Evaluation of Freight Intermodal Connectors in Tennessee State
Authors: Chimba Deo , Masindoki Emmanuel , Li Xiaoming , Langford Casey
Published: March 2019

This paper evaluates the traffic safety along freight intermodal connectors (FICs), which are also known as “first mile/last mile roadways,” connecting facilities that link freight-intensive land uses to main freight routes. Using Tennessee’s FICs as a case study, the paper digests the safety with reference to crash frequency, crash rates, and statistical significance of attributing traffic and geometric factors. It was found that connectors leading to pipeline terminals have high crash rates (almost double) compared with other type of terminals, whereas port terminal connectors have the lowest safety problem indices. The study established correlative contributing causes of crash frequencies and rates along FICs that included average annual daily traffic, lanes, shoulders, access, and median types. Traffic signal density was found to strongly and significantly affect the probability of crashes, together with the presence of a two-way left-turn lane (TWLTL), which surprisingly tends to decrease the probability of crashes along these connectors. The presence of shoulders along intermodal connectors was found to help reduce the probability of crashes, whereas the presence of curb and gutter tends to increase crash frequency. Analysis indicated that most of the FICs with high crash rates were also operating at a lower traffic operations level of service (LOS), especially for critical movements toward freight facilities because of high truck volumes.
Odd Couplings
Authors: Carruthers Valerie
Published: March 2019

These artists play with pairs of opposites, pairs of meanings, and unlikely pairs as they explore the cosmic play.
Kafka and Metalmorphosis: David Černý's Transformations of Movable Steel
Authors: Halberstadt Carol Snyder
Published: March 2019

“I cannot make you understand. I cannot make anyone understand what is happening inside me. I cannot even explain it to myself.” —Franz Kafka, The Metamorphosis, 1915.
Portrait of Humanity: The Vision of Javier Marín
Authors: Shull Jodie A.
Published: March 2019

Wisdom is neither in fixity nor in change, but in the dialectic between the two. —Octavio Paz
Enfeeblement in Essential Tremor: Development and Validation of a New Psychometric Measure
Authors: Trujillo Diaz Daniel , Cersonsky Tess E. K. , Kellner Sarah , Zdrodowska Maria Anna , Hickman Ruby , Cosentino Stephanie , Monin Joan K. , Louis Elan D.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Despite a growing body of knowledge regarding essential tremor (ET), past studies have fallen short in capturing the full impact of ET on patients and caregivers. We propose enfeeblement (i.e., having the qualities of being prematurely old, helpless, or debilitated) as a novel clinical outcome measure in ET. Due to the lack of enfeeblement scales for ET in the literature, we developed and validated an enfeeblement scale for ET.

Methods:

The Essential Tremor Enfeeblement Survey (ETES) consists of eight 5-point Likert-type scale questions and is designed to be a caregiver-reported outcome.

Results:

Enfeeblement scores showed a floor effect of 15.3%, no ceiling effects, and demonstrated good overall test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.73), favorable internal consistency (Cronbach α coefficient = 0.92) and good convergent validity.

Conclusion:

The ETES has robust properties. Aside from future studies of enfeeblement in ET, enfeeblement should be explored more broadly as a psychometric measure across other neurological disorders.
Curcumin attenuates palmitic acid-induced cell apoptosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress in H9C2 cardiomyocytes
Authors: Guan G , Lei L , Lv Q , Gong Y , Yang L
Published: March 2019

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is mediated by multiple molecular mechanisms including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Curcumin, a phenolic compound, has cytoprotective properties, but its potential protective action against diabetic cardiomyopathy and the related molecular mechanisms are not fully elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of curcumin on cell viability and apoptosis in palmitic acid (PA)-treated H9C2 cardiomyocytes and investigated the signaling pathways involved. Treatment with PA reduced cell viability, induced apoptosis, enhanced apoptosis-related protein expression (Caspase 3 and BCL-2 associated X protein (BAX)), and activated ER stress marker protein expression (glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein (CHOP)). Curcumin attenuated PA-induced reduction in cell viability and activation of apoptosis, Caspase 3 activity, BAX, CHOP, and GRP78 expression. 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) attenuated the PA-induced effects on cell viability and apoptosis, similar to curcumin. Both curcumin and 4-PBA also attenuated PA-induced increase in ER stress protein (CHOP and GRP78) expression. Curcumin also protected against cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and ER stress induced by thapsigargin. These findings indicate that PA triggers apoptosis in H9C2 cells via ER stress pathways and curcumin protects against this phenomenon.
Immediate effects of ultrasound-guided percutaneous neuromodulation versus physical exercise on performance of the flexor hallucis longus muscle in professional dancers: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: de la Cruz-Torres Blanca , Barrera-García-Martín Irene , Albornoz-Cabello Manuel
Published: March 2019

Background:

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous neuromodulation (US-guided PNM) is a minimally invasive intervention. This technique consists of the application of percutaneous electrical stimulation (PES) through an acupuncture needle-like electrode that is placed in close proximity to the nerve or motor point of the target muscle under ultrasound guidance.

Objective:

To examine the immediate effects of a stretching exercise, an eccentric exercise and US-guided PNM on the performance of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) muscle in young dancers.

Methods:

Randomised clinical trial. A total of 45 dancers were divided into three groups: Stretching group, Eccentric group and PNM group. The following performance parameters were assessed: range of motion (ROM) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, balance test and unilateral heel raise fatigue test.

Results:

There were no differences between these groups in baseline measurements; at the end of the study, mean balance and endurance values were only significantly higher for the PNM group compared to the Stretching (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001, respectively) and Eccentric groups (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). The effect sizes were large for the balance (d = 0.8) and endurance (d = 1.83) tests in the PNM group. Both the Stretching and Eccentric groups exhibited improvements in ROM compared to their baseline values (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004, respectively), whereas there was no significant temporal improvement noted for the PNM group. The effect sizes with respect to ROM values were moderate for stretching (d = 0.6) and eccentric (d = 0.7) exercises.

Conclusion:

An isolated PES intervention provides a greater immediate increase in balance and muscular strength than an active stretching and eccentric exercise of the FHL muscle in young ballet dancers.
Professor Xenophon J Contiades: The most significant medical loss during World War II in Greece
Authors: Nikolopoulos Markos , Pallantza Zoi , Dalamaga Maria
Published: March 2019

Xenophon J Contiades was born in Marseille in 1903. After a brilliant career as a surgeon and Chef de Clinique in Paris receiving numerous awards and publishing more than 100 manuscripts, Contiades returned to Greece to become Professor of Surgery at the University of Athens being appointed as Director of the Surgery Clinic at the “Hippokration” General Hospital of Athens. At the beginning of the Second World War, Professor Contiades exhorted his students to defend their country. He concluded his final lecture by saying: “Gentlemen, you know what happened to our homeland. I believe that each one of us will do his duty. I wish you good luck. The lesson is over!” As Director of the Surgery Clinic of the Ioannina Military Hospital at the war front, he organized the clinic for the treatment of frostbitten and seriously injured warriors. He died as a hero during a German Nazi air strike on the Hospital building bearing the Red Cross sign on 20 April 1941 (Easter day) while operating on a patient who survived. We should not forget a man who lead a meaningful and glorious but short life dedicated to the service of his country and mankind in very difficult times.
Book review: Gulshan Dietl, India and the Global Game of Gas Pipelines
Authors: Nathan Hippu Salk Kristle
Published: March 2019

Gulshan Dietl, India and the Global Game of Gas Pipelines. London and New York, NY: Routledge, 2017, pp. 213, ₹695 (HB). ISBN 978-1-138-74401-1.
Role of SCO in the Eurasian Continent
Authors: Yussupzhanovich Ruslan Izimov , Tulkunovna Zamira Muratalieva
Published: March 2019

With an official accession of India and Pakistan to Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), its capacity has considerably increased. The organisation has also faced new challenges, to which the member states must respond rapidly. Thus, the expansion of the list of members blurs to a large extent the SCO area of efforts application. A traditional spotlight, shining for a long time on Central Asia, will be now inevitably shifted towards South Asia. The task of maintaining the basic principles of the SCO functioning and the balance of forces between the major and other members in the Organization, as well as the need for solving the most topical issue for today, the creation of mechanisms for financing the SCO projects, remain no less important in the light of the SCO expansion.

Besides, the fact of aggravation of the geopolitical situation in the world is directly reflected in the SCO activities. The rivalry between the big powers, including the SCO members, has moved on to a new footing.

This article provides an analysis of the current state of the SCO activities as well as forecasts for the further development of the ‘Big Shanghai Eight’.
A critical review of reduced one-dimensional beam models of piezoelectric composite beams
Authors: Luschi Luca , Iannaccone Giuseppe , Pieri Francesco
Published: March 2019

Simplified one-dimensional models for composite beams with piezoelectric layers, which are intrinsically three-dimensional structures, are important for many applications, including piezoelectric energy harvesters. To reduce the dimensionality of the system, assumptions on the stress/strain state in the transverse direction are typically made. The most common are those of null transverse stress, used for narrow beams, null transverse deformation, used for wide beams, and continuous interface strain, suited for thin piezoelectric layers (we call this assumption thin film continuous). We show that the models based on these assumptions are often used uncritically for beam geometries for which large errors may result. In particular, null transverse stress fails even for narrow beams if the thickness is much smaller than the beam width. We give clear geometric criteria that, for any geometry, allow the selection of the most accurate model among the three. We also develop a single, unified beam equation encompassing the three models and compare the analytical results from this equation with finite element simulations over a wide range of beam lengths, widths, and layer thicknesses. The selection criteria and the unified beam equation form a valuable tool for fast and accurate design of composite piezoelectric beams.
Building Bridges With Bach: Syntegration of Music and Visual Art
Authors: Estrada Tara Carpenter , May Brittany Nixon
Published: March 2019

Music and visual art share many common elements, principles, and processes. The numerous commonalities shared between music and visual arts afford for natural, meaningful integration opportunities that create natural synergies. Synergy or syntegration is achieved when the learning outcomes accomplished through the integration of subjects are greater than the outcomes achieved by teaching each subject individually. This article examines some of the natural commonalities between music and visual art through the music of Bach and the art of the Baroque Period that provide for syntegrated learning opportunities in the general music classroom. The authors provide ideas for integrated lesson plans for music and visual art.
An Ethic of Constraint: Citizens, Sea-Level Rise Viewers, and the Limits of Agency
Authors: Richards Daniel P.
Published: March 2019

The design of online interactive visualizations is an ongoing area of research within technical communication, with recent work focusing on visualizations in risk-based contexts. This article shares the results of a large-scale user experience study on a popular interactive sea-level rise viewer aimed at facilitating decision making for individual users in coastal communities. Using this viewer, participants performed three major tasks related to individual property, community impacts, and future projections and gave feedback on the design, use value, and functionality of the tool. The participants were assessed on their ability to complete the three major tasks. The author discusses the implications of these results on the continued design of interactive risk visualizations and argues for a vision of user agency that is more constrained within the larger ethical paradigms of environmental communication.
Teacher Leadership and Communication Among Diverse Colleagues: Why Cultural Competence Counts
Authors: Green Jennifer
Published: March 2019

This article explores contextual factors that influenced teacher leadership behavior during the evolution of a dual language education program for elementary English-language learners. Teachers’ narratives provide evidence of the relative strength of school leadership streams, that is, relationships, moral purpose, and commitment to action. However, emergent themes reveal that the primary obstacle to progress was intercultural communication. Diverse teachers struggled to work collaboratively on committees, which ultimately affected group decision-making and the progress of the program. Although teacher preparation programs and schools are focusing on culturally responsive pedagogy, the data indicate that cultural competence among colleagues warrants attention as well.
Identification of moving loads using a local linear embedding algorithm
Authors: Jingjing Zhang
Published: March 2019

A new approach for identifying moving loads is proposed in which one can identify continuous or discontinuous loads from the response data by using a local linear embedding algorithm. This approach is especially well suited for moving loads that are difficult to measure directly and it does not depend on modeling the structures. Four simulated examples are conducted on a 5-m beam with four types of moving loads and the results verify the usefulness of our approach, but there is a small amount of distortion at some stages. The robustness of the approach is further verified by contaminating the response data with white noise of different levels, and the results show that the approach mentioned in this paper has good robustness. This identification approach for moving loads can be applied to aerospace engineering applications.
A GPU acceleration of 3-D Fourier reconstruction in cryo-EM
Authors: Střelák David , Sorzano Carlos Óscar S , Carazo José María , Filipovič Jiří
Published: March 2019

Cryo-electron microscopy is a popular method for macromolecules structure determination. Reconstruction of a 3-D volume from raw data obtained from a microscope is highly computationally demanding. Thus, acceleration of the reconstruction has a great practical value. In this article, we introduce a novel graphics processing unit (GPU)-friendly algorithm for direct Fourier reconstruction, one of the main computational bottlenecks in the 3-D volume reconstruction pipeline for some experimental cases (particularly those with a large number of images and a high internal symmetry). Contrary to the state of the art, our algorithm uses a gather memory pattern, improving cache locality and removing race conditions in parallel writing into the 3-D volume. We also introduce a finely tuned CUDA implementation of our algorithm, using auto-tuning to search for a combination of optimization parameters maximizing performance on a given GPU architecture. Our CUDA implementation is integrated in widely used software Xmipp, version 3.19, reaching 11.4× speedup compared to the original parallel CPU implementation using GPU with comparable power consumption. Moreover, we have reached 31.7× speedup using four GPUs and 2.14×–5.96× speedup compared to optimized GPU implementation based on a scatter memory pattern.
Determining Whether Hypertensive Status and Stress Level Are Associated With Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Kehler Stephanie , Rayens Mary Kay , Ashford Kristin
Published: March 2019

Background:

Hypertensive disorders are common pregnancy complications in the United States. Although the exact mechanism underlying hypertensive disorders in pregnancy is unknown, there is evidence of involvement of a maladaptive maternal inflammatory response. Psychological maternal stress experienced during pregnancy can increase the risk of a hypertensive disorder by altering the maternal inflammatory response.

Objectives:

The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate the relationships of hypertensive status and stress with inflammatory biomarkers throughout pregnancy.

Method:

A 1:2 case–control design was used to analyze secondary data longitudinally with repeated measures of a multicenter, culturally and ethnically diverse pregnant population. Demographic data, psychological stress, and serum inflammatory data were analyzed. The sample consisted of 30 pregnant women with hypertension and 61 normotensive women. Measurements were taken once in each trimester of pregnancy.

Results:

Trimester-specific levels of inflammatory biomarkers varied based on stress and hypertensive status. IL-6 was elevated in the hypertensive, high-stress group, while IL-8 was greater among those with high stress, regardless of hypertensive status or trimester. For IL-1α and IL-1β, there was a significant stress-by-trimester interaction, while IL-10 was associated with a significant three-way interaction among stress level, hypertension status, and trimester.

Conclusions:

The associations of stress and hypertensive status with inflammatory biomarkers are complex. Stress and hypertension were associated with changes in inflammatory response. Hypertensive women with high stress experienced a heightened anti-inflammatory response, potentially a compensatory mechanism. To better understand this relationship, further longitudinal studies are warranted.
Reproducibility of macular and optic nerve head vessel density measurements by swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Fernández-Vigo José Ignacio , Kudsieh Bachar , Macarro-Merino Ana , Arriola-Villalobos Pedro , Martínez-de-la-Casa José María , García-Feijóo Julián , Fernández-Vigo José Ángel
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

To assess the reproducibility of swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) for macular and optic nerve head (ONH) vessel density (VD).

Methods:

Cross-sectional study using the Triton OCTA (Topcon, Tokyo, Japan), for VD (%) measurements in 40 eyes of 40 healthy subjects on two 6 × 6 mm scans of the macula and ONH across five subfields (central, superior, inferior, temporal, and nasal) at different segmentation levels: superficial capillary plexus (SCP), deep capillary plexus (DCP), outer retina, and choriocapillaris. Reproducibility values were summarized as intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and coefficients of variations (CV).

Results:

ICCs for the macular VD measurements in the central zone were 0.874, 0.770, 0.575, 0.718 at the levels SCP, DCP, outer retina, and choriocapillaris, respectively, while worse ICCs were obtained for the parafoveal subfields (ICC ⩽ 0.589); CVs were 2.8%–6.7%. The reproducibility of the ONH superficial VD was ICC = 0.941 for the papillary region and was ICC = 0.499–0.853 for the peripapillary zone; CVs ranged from 4.8% to 17%. Peripapillary VD showed an ICC = 0.533–0.770 in the DCP layer, and 0.572–0.828 in the choriocapillaris. Lowest VD were obtained for the macular SCP and DCP (23% and 22%, respectively), in the foveal zone, while greatest VD were recorded in the nasal and temporal peripapillary subfields at the level of the choriocapillaris (both 68%).

Conclusions:

The new SS-OCTA software served to quantify macular and ONH VD with a reproducibility that was good in the central zones (foveal and papillary, respectively) and moderate in the peripheral zones (parafoveal and peripapillary).
Intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver agreement of demarcation line depth measurements following corneal cross linking
Authors: Tzamalis Argyrios , Vinciguerra Riccardo , Romano Vito , Arbabi Esmaeil , Batterbury Mark , Kaye Stephen B
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intraobserver reproducibility of demarcation line depth measurement in keratoconic patients after epithelium-off corneal collagen cross linking and assess the interobserver variability/agreement among examiners of various experience levels.

Methods:

56 eyes of 56 patients undergoing corneal collagen cross linking for progressive keratoconus were enrolled. After 4 weeks, all patients underwent an anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT; CASIA SS-1000; Tomey, Nagoya, Japan) in the cross-linked eye by four masked examiners (two medical students (S1 and S2) and two corneal fellows (F1 and F2)) in order to identify and measure the demarcation line depth in experienced and non-experienced users. The intraclass correlation coefficient and the coefficient of variation were calculated. Agreement between raters was evaluated using Bland–Altman plots, intraclass correlation coefficient and weighted-kappa statistics comparing raters in pairs.

Results:

The average demarcation line depth of all measurements was 254.34 ± 72.3 μm, varying from 84 to 459 μm. The intraclass correlation coefficient evaluating the reproducibility of measurements for F1 was 0.9379 (95% confidence interval (CI) =0.9035–0.9619), for the second (F2), it was 0.9837 (95% confidence interval = 0.9743–0.9901), while intraclass correlation coefficient between medical students was calculated 0.844. The overall intraclass correlation coefficient among all four observers was 0.8706 (95% confidence interval = 0.8061–0.9185). The coefficient of variation for repeated measurements was 5.981 μm (95% confidence interval = 3.966–7.471) and 3.312 μm (95% confidence interval = 2.468–3.981) for F1 and F2 raters, respectively. The percentage of demarcation line detection was 90.32%.

Conclusion:

The reproducibility of demarcation line measures although very good (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.9), yielded a difference between the two experienced raters. Furthermore, the novice raters did not reach an excellent level of agreement with the expert ones showing greater variability in their recordings.
Re-Imagining Healthcare and Medical Research Systems in Post-Devolution Scotland
Authors: Mittra James , Mastroeni Michele , Haddow Gill , Wield David , Barlow Elisabeth
Published: March 2019

We use the concept of ‘imagined communities’, and related work on socio-technical imaginaries and expectations, to reflect on how Scotland is represented simultaneously as ‘sick and unhealthy’ and a ‘living lab’ due to its innovative medical research. Together, we suggest these narratives have driven a broader health and wealth agenda in post-devolution Scotland, which became salient during the 2014 independence referendum. We draw on research conducted during the independence referendum to consider how key stakeholders enacted imagined communities/identities (sick but also innovative) as they considered the historical impact of devolution on health and research systems and envisioned future independence. The referendum provided an opportunity to consider how Scottish health and research systems have been imagined over time. Our findings further the understanding of the impact of devolution on healthcare and medical research, revealing the role played by policy narratives rooted in imagined identities.
Interacting with television in one’s own home: The development of a cognitive stimulation television pilot episode for older people with dementia (Innovative Practice)
Authors: Streater Amy , Yates Lauren , Orrell Martin , Rosen Joe , Taylor Smith Andy , Schneider Justine
Published: March 2019

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is a well-established, cognition-based intervention for people with mild to moderate dementia. However, it can be difficult for older people with dementia, particularly those living alone, to access Cognitive Stimulation Therapy groups in the community. Television offers familiar technology with potential to transmit material similar to that used in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy groups. Consequently, an interactive pilot television episode of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy was devised that adheres to the key principles and session themes of group Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. Consideration was given to the suitability of resources, on-screen visual cues, time given for the person with dementia viewing to process, consider and answer questions, possible interactions with the audience, and the grading of activities. The aim of the pilot episode was to be accessible in the home of the person with dementia, by themselves or with a caregiver, with the potential for enjoyment and cognitive stimulation similar to that seen in group Cognitive Stimulation Therapy.
Contemporary Methodological Perspectives in Educational Research on ‘Teachers’ practice’: Assumptions and Shortcomings for ‘Effective Practices’
Authors: Penalva José
Published: March 2019

In the context of the major influence that ‘effectiveness’ is having internationally, paper studies the contemporary methodological perspectives in educational research when considering teachers’ practice. It shows that current trends can be boiled down to: (1) naturalistic methodology, (2) descriptive methodology, and (3) the nonmethodological solution. It states two main conclusions: first, there is a neat continuity with traditional methodologies, which were in decline long ago; second, contemporary perspectives in educational research fail to provide a consistent methodological model for ‘effective practices’. The author finally draws some conclusions and makes some suggestions for the further development of methodology in educational research and teachers’ practice. This study is noteworthy for teachers’ practice, collaborations and partnerships, and also for the relationship amongst research/practice/policy, which is at the core of the implementation of educational systems.
Laser-based structural training algorithm for acoustic emission localization and damage accumulation visualization in a bolt joint structure
Authors: Jung Byung-Hak , Kim Yong-Woon , Lee Jung-Ryul
Published: March 2019

Acoustic emission caused by structural damage encompasses important information about structural integrity. In particular, acoustic emission can detect phenomena that are difficult to determine, such as microcracks and internal cracks. However, conventional acoustic emission has shown limitations in complex structure applications for years. In this article, we propose a Q-switched laser scan–based structural training technique to achieve accurate acoustic emission localization and visualize accumulated damage in complex structures with a single PZT sensor (acoustic emission sensor). The proposed method compensates for the difference in characteristics between the actual acoustic emission wave and the laser-induced elastic wave using laser-based structural training algorithm. Acoustic emission localization in complex structures is accomplished by cross-correlation in the time domain. Pencil-lead break method is used as the source for acoustic emission to simulate the real damage-induced acoustic emission event. The proposed laser-based structural training algorithm with a laser scanning interval of 2 mm achieved an average localization error of 1.84 mm in two Al-alloy layers with fastener structure. Finally, the accumulated damages were visualized by appending the damage index of the acoustic emission waves at accurately localized points.
A Comparison of Conservative and Operative Management of Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Avulsion Fractures in Children
Authors: Huynh Minh N. Q. , Tang Ken , Cheung Kevin
Published: March 2019

Background: The optimal management of pediatric thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) avulsion fractures remains poorly defined. The purpose of this study was to elucidate patient outcomes based on initial management and fracture characteristics. Methods: A retrospective study of all patients younger than 18 years of age presenting with a thumb UCL avulsion fracture was performed. Patients were grouped by their initial management. The primary outcome of the study was time to return to full activity. Fractures were characterized by articular surface involvement, displacement, and rotation. Results: Forty-seven patients with thumb UCL avulsion fractures were identified. Ten patients underwent surgery as initial treatment; all healed without complication, with a mean recovery time of 6.2 ± 1.8 weeks. Thirty-seven patients were treated conservatively; although most healed, the recovery time was longer (9.2 ± 8.3 weeks, adjusted hazard ratio = 2.3, 95% confidence interval = 1.0-5.5). Four cases (11%) required conversion to surgery that all healed without complications. Fractures treated with immobilization alone were significantly smaller, less displaced, and less rotated than those initially treated with surgery; however, 19 fractures that would have met criteria for surgery were treated with immobilization and successfully healed within 7.1 ± 2.9 weeks. Fracture characteristics did not predict which patients would fail conservative treatment or have prolonged recovery times. Conclusions: While surgery provided definitive treatment without delay in recovery, immobilization may not be an unreasonable treatment choice even for patients with large or displaced fractures. In cases where patients failed immobilization, surgery as a second-line treatment had good results.
The skin regeneration potential of a pro-angiogenic secretome from human skin-derived multipotent stromal cells
Authors: Robert Anny Waloski , Azevedo Gomes Felipe , Rode Michele Patricia , Marques da Silva Maiara , Veleirinho Maria Beatriz da Rocha , Maraschin Marcelo , Hayashi Leila , Wosgrau Calloni Giordano , Stimamiglio Marco Augusto
Published: March 2019

Multipotent stromal cells stimulate skin regeneration after acute or chronic injuries. However, many stem cell therapy protocols are limited by the elevated number of cells required and poor cell survival after transplantation. Considering that the beneficial effects of multipotent stromal cells on wound healing are typically mediated by paracrine mechanisms, we examined whether the conditioned medium from skin-derived multipotent stromal cells would be beneficial for restoring the skin structure of mice after wounding. A proteomic characterization of skin-derived multipotent stromal cell-conditioned medium was performed, and the angiogenic function of this secretome was investigated in vitro using an endothelial cell tube formation assay. We then applied the skin-derived multipotent stromal cell-conditioned medium directly to full-thickness excisional wounds or embedded it into carrageenan or poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels to monitor tissue regeneration in mice. Biological processes related to wound healing and angiogenesis were highlighted by the analysis of the skin-derived multipotent stromal cell secretome, and a pro-angiogenic capacity for promoting tubule-like structures was first confirmed in vitro. Skin wounds treated with skin-derived multipotent stromal cell-conditioned medium also displayed increased angiogenesis, independently of the association of the conditioned medium with hydrogels. However, improvements in wound closure and epidermis or decreased inflammatory cell presence were not observed. Hence, the use of the secretome obtained from human skin-derived multipotent stromal cells may be a potential strategy to aid the natural skin repair of full-thickness lesions mainly based on its pro-angiogenic properties.
Navigating Bulkeley’s challenge on climate politics and human geography
Authors: Jones Andrew
Published: March 2019

While agreeing with the major tenets of Harriet Bulkeley’s timely and powerful argument for geographers (and social scientists more generally) to engage with climate change, this response raises three provocative challenges that arise from this intervention: the degree to which the epistemological and theoretical bases to these arguments are radical, the nature of the engagement problem in the discipline and, perhaps most importantly, how these arguments can be translated to a ‘progressive politics’. The response argues that there is much further to go in explaining the utility of socio-natural understanding of climate change if those beyond the social sciences and in the wider realm of policy and politics are to be convinced of the power of the approach being advocated. It also argues that geographers are well-positioned to develop the bolder and more interdisciplinary approach needed to achieve the kind of ambitious shift in thinking Bulkeley seeks.
Toward an integrative discourse on climate change
Authors: O’Brien Karen , Leichenko Robin
Published: March 2019

Harriet Bulkeley’s article raises some of the persistent challenges of integrating social science perspectives into climate change research. In this commentary, we consider a broader and deeper approach to integration that introduces multiple entry points for engaging with climate change research, education, and training. We argue that an integrative discourse is already emerging and discuss the potential role and implications for human geography.
Geographies of dissociation: Value creation, ‘dark’ places, and ‘missing’ links
Authors: Ibert Oliver , Hess Martin , Kleibert Jana , Müller Felix , Power Dominic
Published: March 2019

In this article, we seek to contribute to cultural-economic geography debates on the social construction of economic value. We widen the focus on already well-studied associations between branded commodities and other entities representing nonmonetary values by also considering what we refer to as ‘dissociations’. Dissociation denotes practices of weakening or obscuring negative links between a branded commodity and other entities in order to let the desired associations overrule undesired ones. We highlight the strategic agency behind such dissociations and thus focus on actors’ proactive relational work to prevent negative associations from becoming salient as well as their reactive practices of managing reputational crises. The article situates the study of dissociations in human geography and pays particular attention to the geographies of dissociation along territorial, relational, and topological lines.
The case for research on the marketing–finance interface
Authors: Hanssens Dominique M.
Published: March 2019

This article discusses five dominant themes and important empirical findings in the recent literature on the marketing-finance interface.
Burden, Access, and Disparities in Kidney Disease
Authors: Crews Deidra C. , Bello Aminu K. , Saadi Gamal ,   for the World Kidney Day Steering Committee
Published: March 2019

Kidney disease is a global public health problem, affecting more than 750 million persons worldwide. The burden of kidney disease varies substantially across the world, as does its detection and treatment. In many settings, rates of kidney disease and the provision of its care are defined by socioeconomic, cultural, and political factors leading to significant disparities. World Kidney Day 2019 offers an opportunity to raise awareness of kidney disease and highlight disparities in its burden and current state of global capacity for prevention and management. Here, we highlight that many countries still lack access to basic diagnostics, a trained nephrology workforce, universal access to primary health care, and renal replacement therapies. We point to the need for strengthening basic infrastructure for kidney care services for early detection and management of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease across all countries and advocate for more pragmatic approaches to providing renal replacement therapies. Achieving universal health coverage worldwide by 2030 is one of the World Health Organization’s Sustainable Development Goals. Although universal health coverage may not include all elements of kidney care in all countries, understanding what is feasible and important for a country or region with a focus on reducing the burden and consequences of kidney disease would be an important step toward achieving kidney health equity.
Efficacy of acupuncture in treating scars following tissue trauma
Authors: Tuckey Cathy , Kohut Susan , Edgar Dale W
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Anecdotally, acupuncture is used in the treatment of scar tissue in order to improve scar quality and reduce symptoms of pain and pruritus. Unlike conditions such as lower back pain, knee osteoarthritis and migraines, there are no systematic reviews to confirm treatment efficacy. This systematic literature review aims to assess the current level of evidence for the use of acupuncture for treating abnormal scars such as hypertrophic or other symptomatic scars.

Methods:

A comprehensive database search was performed followed by reviewing reference lists, grey literature databases and Google Scholar. Study quality was assessed using the Oregon CONSORT STRICTA instrument (OCSI) for clinical trials and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for case reports.

Results:

The search strategy discovered five case studies, one retrospective cohort study, one cohort study and three clinical trials that investigated the use of acupuncture for scars. Studies rated as low to moderate quality (26–50%) on the OCSI checklist due to lack of detailed reporting, use of non-validated outcome measures and heterogeneity of participant cohorts. Three case studies rated as moderate quality (5–6/8) and two as low quality (<2/8) on the JBI checklist.

Discussion:

All studies reported positive outcomes for the use of acupuncture for scar symptoms; however, treatment frequency, duration, number of treatments and points used varied between studies.

Conclusion:

Acupuncture for the treatment of abnormal scars has a low level of evidence thus requiring further well-designed, controlled trials to be performed. Recommended treatment protocols for future studies have been provided.
Health on the Road: Issues Faced by Female Truck Drivers
Authors: Reed Deborah B. , Cronin Jennifer Skeeters
Published: March 2019

Nearly 3 million long haul truck drivers transport goods across America. Truck driving is rated as the nation's third largest growth occupation. Between 174,000 and 290,000 drivers are women and the percentage of women in trucking is growing. A descriptive study was conducted to identify health conditions, health care access, and driving environments of female drivers. Analyses of the 284 surveys showed only 77.8% had a usual place of health care. One of five had no insurance coverage and only 35 respondents had paid sick leave. Drivers reported substantial prevalence of sinus problems, hack pain, migraine headaches, and hypertension. Drivers ignored symptoms or self medicated when working. More than 40% expressed dissatisfaction with health care while “on the road.” Occupational health nurses may he in positions to address the special needs of drivers through websites, trucker health clinics, or special programs delivered where truckers congregate.
How is a Job Coach used in the Return to Work Process?
Authors: Tourigian Robin , Kalina Christine M. , Haag Annette B.
Published: March 2019

Case Management Update appears as part of Clinical Rounds in the Journal. The panel approach provides a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. Panel members come with expertise from a variety of case management arenas and have agreed to share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. Opinions and perspectives are those of the panel members, and do not necessarily represent the views of the AAOHN, the Editor, or the Publisher. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the Panel. This month's Panel members include Robin Tourigian, Christine M. Kalina, Annette B. Haag, and Mary Lou Wassel.