bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive ultrasonic method for controlling the basis weight of knitted fabrics
Authors: Barylko Sergiy , Zdorenko Valeriy , Kyzymchuk Olena , Lisovets Sergiy , Melnyk Liudmyla , Barylko Olena
Published: November 2019

Two main methods employed in designing knitted fabrics for production rely on a given surface density or on the basis weight (grams per square meter). The actual value of these parameters may differ. Normally, the actual basis weight of knitted fabrics is determined by weighing a sample of a certain width and length and subsequently performing the relevant conversion (ISO 3801:1977). This method involves a destruction or wasting of the material. A non-destructive ultrasonic method for determining the basis weight of textile materials was developed, which is based on a determination of the amplitude ratio of ultrasonic waves falling on the fabric and the waves passing through it. However, this method has limitations in determining the basis weight of textile materials with variable porosity, such as knitted fabrics. To improve the developed method, it is proposed to continue the measuring of an amplitude of the reflected wave from the fabric surface. In this case, it is possible to monitor the fabric porosity changes. If the distance and pore size of the controlled fabric have increased or decreased relative to the control sample, the amplitude and magnitude of the reflected wave (part of the reflected ultrasonic signal) changes and the ultrasonic device will be adapted to the fabric structure. Our studies have demonstrated the possibility of determining the fabric porosity by using an amplitude of the reflected ultrasonic wave from the fabric surface, which allows adaptively to determine the basis weight using an amplitude of transmitted ultrasonic wave. Further development of ultrasonic non-contact methods and relative devises is very important for production control.
Analysis of strength characteristics of carbon fiber–reinforced microbial solidified sand
Authors: Qiu Rongkang , Tong Huawei , Fang Xiaotian , Liao Yuan , Li Yadong
Published: November 2019

Microbial solidified sand effectively enhances the strength of the soil, but it will cause brittle failure. In order to reduce the impact of microbial solidification sand brittleness, an improved method for adding carbon fiber to microbial solidified sand is proposed. The qualitative analysis was based on unconfined compressive strength test, calcium carbonate content determination, and penetration test. The results show that the addition of fiber in the microbial solidified sand can significantly increase the unconfined compressive strength of the sample. The unconfined compressive strength of the sample increases first and then decreases with the increase of fiber addition. The addition of fibers during the soil process enhances the toughness of the specimen and causes plastic damage during the failure of the specimen. Based on the analysis of the microstructure of the sample, the effect of fiber bundles on the strength characteristics of the sample is discussed when the fiber content is higher than the optimal fiber content. The addition of carbon fiber to microbial solidified sand can greatly improve the strength of the sample and increase the toughness, which plays a positive role in improving the safety and stability of the project.
Citizenship in prevocational education: Professional pride as a source
Authors: Leeman Yvonne , Volman Monique
Published: November 2019

The practice of citizenship education has predominantly been studied in general education. This article details an interview study of citizenship education of teachers in prevocational education in the Netherlands. We investigated whether and how vocational teachers reflected on their goals and teaching practices in citizenship education. Teachers did not perceive their teaching to be working on citizenship. However, they aimed at developing professional attitudes in their students, emphasising participation and ‘doing their work well’ in order to become respected and personally responsible workers/employees. In technical education, the development of pride in and shared responsibility for the quality of the students’ craftwork was emphasised. These findings are discussed in relation to Sennett’s views on the development of craftsmanship as citizenship. We see these views as strategic openings for an alternative to the dominant verbal, individualising and adaptation oriented approach of citizenship education.
Nutritional interventions for the treatment of IBD: current evidence and controversies
Authors: Pigneur Bénédicte , Ruemmele Frank M.
Published: November 2019

Environmental factors, particularly diet, are the focus of current research as potential triggers of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Epidemiological cohort data showing a rapid increase of IBD in western countries and the emergence of IBD in developing countries paralleling the introduction of a western diet are indirect arguments linking food and food behaviour to intestinal inflammation. The successful use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN), now considered as first-line induction therapy for paediatric Crohn’s disease (CD), is the strongest argument for a link between diet and IBD. Mechanistic studies revealed that EEN impacts intestinal microbiota composition and together with the exclusion of potentially harmful food ingredients this allows the control of intestinal inflammation and induces mucosal healing. However, the exclusivity character of EEN is a major drawback. Based on the data of EEN, the search for more tolerable and still effective diets has begun. Recent reports on the new CD exclusion diet (CDED), CD-TREAT, as well as the specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) provide the first promising results, further underlining the potential of diet to control inflammation in patients with CD by excluding certain food components. Ongoing research is trying to combine nutritional interventions with analyses of intestinal microbiota and their metabolic functions with the aim of correcting the intestinal dysbiosis that characterizes IBD. This research is promising and gives new hope to patients that have been looking for decades for nutritional interventions with the aim of stabilizing their disease course. There might even be potential for disease prevention in high-risk patients by excluding potentially harmful food components.
A Virtual Type 2 Diabetes Clinic Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Endocrinology Visits
Authors: Dixon Ronald F. , Zisser Howard , Layne Jennifer E. , Barleen Nathan A. , Miller David P. , Moloney Daniel P. , Majithia Amit R. , Gabbay Robert A. , Riff Josh
Published: November 2019

The Onduo Virtual Diabetes Clinic (VDC) telehealth technology/care model for adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) combines connected devices, remote lifestyle coaching, and clinical support with a mobile App. Key differentiating program features are the availability of live video consultations with board-certified endocrinologists for medication management and real-time continuous glucose monitor use for higher-risk participants. Preliminary data ( n = 740) suggest that participation was associated with a significant improvement in HbA1c with up to 6 months follow-up in those not meeting treatment targets. HbA1c decreased by 2.3% ± 1.9%, 0.7% ± 1.0%, and 0.2% ± 0.8% across baseline categories of >9.0%, 8.0%-9.0% and 7.0% to <8.0%, respectively (all P < .001). These findings suggest that the VDC has potential to support individuals with T2D and their clinicians in diabetes management between office visits.
Automated Knee Osteoarthritis Assessment Increases Physicians’ Agreement Rate and Accuracy: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Nehrer Stefan , Ljuhar Richard , Steindl Peter , Simon Rene , Maurer Dietmar , Ljuhar Davul , Bertalan Zsolt , Dimai Hans P. , Goetz Christoph , Paixao Tiago
Published: November 2019

Objective. To assess the impact of a computerized system on physicians’ accuracy and agreement rate, as compared with unaided diagnosis. Methods. A set of 124 unilateral knee radiographs from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) study were analyzed by a computerized method with regard to Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade, as well as joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and sclerosis Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) grades. Physicians scored all images, with regard to osteophytes, sclerosis, joint space narrowing OARSI grades and KL grade, in 2 modalities: through a plain radiograph ( unaided) and a radiograph presented together with the report from the computer assisted detection system ( aided). Intraclass correlation between the physicians was calculated for both modalities. Furthermore, physicians’ performance was compared with the grading of the OAI study, and accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated in both modalities for each of the scored features. Results. Agreement rates for KL grade, sclerosis, and osteophyte OARSI grades, were statistically increased in the aided versus the unaided modality. Readings for joint space narrowing OARSI grade did not show a statistically difference between the 2 modalities. Readers’ accuracy and specificity for KL grade >0, KL >1, sclerosis OARSI grade >0, and osteophyte OARSI grade >0 was significantly increased in the aided modality. Reader sensitivity was high in both modalities. Conclusions. These results show that the use of an automated knee OA software increases consistency between physicians when grading radiographic features of OA. The use of the software also increased accuracy measures as compared with the OAI study, mostly through increases in specificity.
Belonging and language
Authors: Peers Chris
Published: November 2019

This article contributes to a growing debate within the field of early childhood education about the concept of ‘belonging’. It continues from earlier discussions that commented on the adoption of Belonging as a key term in the development of a national curriculum for the early years in Australia in 2009, as well as increasingly common references to belonging in various aspects of debate within the field. The article focuses specifically on the idea of belonging as it has emerged within existentialist philosophy in the 20th century, and more recent post-structuralist theories, especially the work of Jacques Derrida. The article ties belonging to language as a means of redefining approaches in early childhood education to the notions of place and context, so as to more rigorously connect ‘belonging’ to the philosophical debates of the 21st century.
Are You Connected Through Consumption? The Role of Hashtags in Political Consumption
Authors: Johnson Olivia , Hall-Phillips Adrienne , Chung Te-Lin (Doreen) , Cho Hyojung
Published: November 2019

The debate surrounding protesting National Football League (NFL) games began with player Colin Kaepernick’s decision not to stand for the national anthem in response to increased police violence toward people of color in the United States. Public use of social media has cast players’ behavior of kneeling or sitting during the anthem into an international spotlight and led to individuals’ participation in political consumerism, including boycotting the NFL. The goal of this research is to examine the role of a hashtag in political consumerism through the lens of social impact theory and its relation to individuals’ consumption practices. Using social network and content analysis, this study examined a 4-day sample of tweets and accompanying hashtags that included #BoycottNFL during 9 days of the 2017 NFL season. Findings of this study suggest that the line between lifestyle and contentious political consumerism is blurred. Boycotting the NFL is contentious political consumerism, but it consists of lifestyle political consumerism through the individualized behavior of creating a tweet, which inadvertently is a part of collective action. Furthermore, the analysis indicated that accompanying hashtags demonstrated three types of political consumerism sentiment (i.e., political-, civic-, and consumption-related) that change the tone of a tweet, which may alienate actors who are focused on the consumption practices of the collective action. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Digital Media and Knowledge Production Within Social Movements: Insights From the Transition Movement in Italy
Authors: Pavan Elena , Felicetti Andrea
Published: November 2019

In this article, we aim at contributing to ongoing discussions on the nexus between digital media and social movements. We investigate how activists problematize the inclusion of digital media within their courses of action and exploit these tools to produce and diffuse alternative knowledge on the issues on which they mobilize. We do so by studying Transition Italia (TI), the Italian hub of the transnational Transition movement struggling for resilience and sustainability. First, we reconstruct how activists problematized the adoption of digital media within TI’s courses of action. Second, we explore how activists leveraged Facebook affordances to produce and diffuse alternative knowledge on TI as a collective actor, its visions and practices, its action networks, and the political alternatives it aims to achieve. Far from being passive adopters of digital media, activists considered critically the inclusion of digital media within TI’s activities in light of three elements of import to the national activist community: the appropriateness of mainstream digital platforms to inform citizens, the perceived efficacy of digital tools, and the attempt to distinguish themselves from the global Transition Network. Moreover, we show that activists engaged in a “knowledge curation work” by sharing links and creating and spreading original contents.
Emotion Dynamics and the Association With Depressive Features and Borderline Personality Disorder Traits: Unique, Specific, and Prospective Relationships
Authors: Houben Marlies , Kuppens Peter
Published: November 2019

Patterns of emotional change in daily life have been consistently linked to depressive and borderline personality disorder (BPD) features. However, dynamic measures and average affect show considerable statistical overlap, and depressive and BPD features are comorbid. Moreover, the prospective nature of these relationships is unclear. We used a measurement burst design in which 202 young adults with varying levels of psychopathological features participated in a week-long experience sampling at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Taking overlap into account, we found that BPD traits were uniquely and specifically linked to higher levels of variability in negative affect (NA). For depressive features, indications were found for a specific association with inertia of NA, but these results were not robust and consistent. In fact, overall, incremental predictive power of the dynamic measures above mean affect was limited, especially for depressive features. Prospective relationships showed that psychopathological features predicted stronger emotion dynamic patterns 1 year later rather than the other way around.
Gender Disparities in Surgical Treatment of Axis Fractures in Older Adults
Authors: Catalino Michael P. , Kessler Brice A. , Pate Virginia , Cutshaw Drew , Stürmer Til , Bhowmick Deb A.
Published: November 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

Gender appears to play in important role in surgical outcomes following acute cervical spine trauma, with current literature suggesting males have a significantly higher mortality following spine surgery. However, no well-adjusted population-based studies of gender disparities in incidence and outcomes of spine surgery following acute traumatic axis injuries exist to our knowledge. We hypothesized that females would receive surgery less often than males, but males would have a higher 1-year mortality following isolated traumatic axis fractures.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study using Medicare claims data that identified US citizens aged 65 and older with ICD-9 (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision) code diagnosis corresponding to isolated acute traumatic axis fracture between 2007 and 2014. Our primary outcome was defined as cumulative incidence of surgical treatment, and our secondary outcome was 1-year mortality. Propensity weighted analysis was performed to balance covariates between genders. Our institutional review board approved the study (IRB #16-0533).

Results:

There was no difference in incidence of surgery between males and females following acute isolated traumatic axis fractures (7.4 and 7.5 per 100 fractures, respectively). Males had significantly higher 1-year weighted mortality overall (41.7 and 28.9 per 100 fractures, respectively, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Our well-adjusted data suggest there was no significant gender disparity in incidence of surgical treatment over the study period. The data also support previous observations that males have worse outcomes in comparison to females in the setting of axis fractures and spinal trauma regardless of surgical intervention.
Human Resource Development: Why It Matters in the National Context of Afghanistan
Authors: Jabarkhail Sami , Dooley Larry M.
Published: November 2019

Afghanistan’s recent history has been shaped largely by conflict. As a developing country transitioning away from its heavy reliance on foreign aid, Afghanistan is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities in building its untapped treasure, namely human resources. Afghanistan recognizes the need for countrywide human resource development (HRD) efforts since its first national development strategy was devised in 2005. In this article, we explore the status of HRD in the national context of Afghanistan by providing insight into HRD history, identifying challenges and discussing opportunities.
Sex-Based Differences in Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Daniels Stephen D. , Stewart Cory M. , Garvey Kirsten D. , Brook Emily M. , Higgins Laurence D. , Matzkin Elizabeth G.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Rotator cuff repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on the shoulder. Previous studies have indicated that pain and disability can vary significantly between patients with similarly appearing rotator cuff tears on diagnostic imaging. Prior literature has compared functional outcomes between operative and nonoperative treatments as well as variability in surgical techniques. However, few studies have examined postoperative outcomes based on patient factors such as sex.

Purpose:

To compare patient-reported outcomes after rotator cuff repair between men and women.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 283 patients (153 male, 130 female) who underwent primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were included in this study; of those, 275 patients (97.2%) completed 1-year follow-up. Patient-reported pain visual analog scale (VAS), Veterans RAND 12-item Health Survey (VR-12 mental and physical components), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores were collected preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively using an electronic outcomes system.

Results:

Women reported higher VAS pain scores when compared with men preoperatively ( P < .01) and at 2 weeks ( P < .01), 6 weeks ( P < .01), and 3 months ( P = .02) postoperatively. Additionally, women experienced a greater overall change in the mean VAS score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively ( P < .01). The use of narcotic pain medication 2 weeks after surgery was greater in women ( P = .032). Women had significantly lower preoperative VR-12 mental scores ( P = .03) and experienced a greater increase in the mean VR-12 mental score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively ( P < .01). Men had higher ASES scores preoperatively ( P < .01) and at 3 months postoperatively ( P < .01). Women experienced a greater overall change in the ASES score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively ( P < .01).

Conclusion:

Women reported greater pain and decreased shoulder function compared with men during the initial 3 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. There were no sex-based differences in patient-reported outcomes at 1-year follow-up. The results of this study indicate that there are sex-related differences in the early postoperative recovery of patients undergoing rotator cuff repair, contributing to postoperative expectations for both clinicians and patients alike.
Biomechanical Comparison of the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon Versus Conjoint Tendon Transfer in a Bone Loss Shoulder Instability Model
Authors: Bokshan Steven L. , Gil Joseph A. , DeFroda Steven F. , Badida Rohit , Crisco Joseph J. , Owens Brett D.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Augmentation of Bankart repair with long head of the biceps tendon transfer has been previously described, although there is a paucity of literature describing its biomechanical effects.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of augmenting Bankart repair with either the conjoint tendon or the long head of the biceps tendon, both with and without subcritical (13%) glenoid bone loss. We hypothesized that, in a cadaveric model, augmenting Bankart repair with the long head of the biceps tendon would restore a greater degree of stability compared with augmenting Bankart repair with the conjoint tendon.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 12 cadaveric shoulders were tested on a 6-degrees-of-freedom robotic musculoskeletal simulator to measure the peak resistance force due to an anterior displacement of 1 cm. The rotator cuff muscles were loaded during testing to simulate physiological conditions. The following test conditions were used for each specimen: (1) intact shoulder, (2) Bankart lesion with 13% anterior bone loss, (3) 13% bone loss with Bankart repair (anchors placed at the 3-, 4-, and 5-o’clock positions), (4) 13% bone loss with both Bankart repair and transfer of the long head of the biceps tendon, and (5) 13% bone loss with Bankart repair and transfer of the conjoint tendon.

Results:

Labral repair with the addition of long head of the biceps tendon transfer had the greatest peak resistance force to anterior displacement among all groups (54.1 ± 5.5 N) and was significantly stronger than both standard Bankart repair by 16.3% (46.5 ± 7.6 N; P = .039) and the conjoint transfer procedure by 16.6% (46.4 ± 7.7 N; P = .008).

Conclusion:

Given the susceptibility of recurrent instability in shoulders with subcritical bone loss after isolated labral repair, it is important to consider augmenting Bankart repair in high-risk patients to avoid potential recurrence and the need for reoperations. Transferring the long head of the biceps tendon to the anterior glenoid represents one possible augmentation.

Clinical Relevance:

We present biomechanical data for a relatively novel technique for augmenting capsulolabral repair strength in an anterior instability model with subcritical bone loss. These data represent biomechanical justification for the utilization of this relatively novel technique.
Defining Components of Early Functional Rehabilitation for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zellers Jennifer A. , Christensen Marianne , Kjær Inge Lunding , Rathleff Michael Skovdal , Silbernagel Karin Grävare
Published: November 2019

Background:

Early functional rehabilitation is frequently discussed in treating Achilles tendon rupture. A consistent definition of what constitutes early functional rehabilitation has not been established across the literature, despite studies supporting its efficacy. A standardized definition would be helpful to pool data across studies, allow for between-study comparisons, and ultimately work toward developing clinical guidelines.

Purpose:

To define early functional rehabilitation (including when it is initiated and what it entails) when used to treat Achilles tendon rupture and to identify outcome measures for evaluating the effect of treatment.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PEDro, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant studies. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies consisted of randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series (≥10 participants) including weightbearing or exercise-based interventions within 8 weeks after Achilles tendon rupture.

Results:

A total of 174 studies published between 1979 and 2018 were included. Studies were rated a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 17 (15-20) on the Downs & Black checklist and included 9098 participants. Early functional rehabilitation incorporated weightbearing (95%), range of motion (73%), and isometric/strengthening exercises (50%). Weightbearing was initiated within the first week, whereas exercise (eg, ankle range of motion, strengthening, whole-body conditioning) was initiated in the second week. Initiation of exercises varied based on whether treatment was nonsurgical (mean, 3.0 weeks; IQR, 2.0-4.0 weeks) or simple (mean, 2.0 weeks; IQR, 0.0-2.3 weeks) or augmented surgical repair (mean, 0.5 weeks; IQR, 0.0-2.8 weeks) ( P = .017). Functional outcomes including ankle range of motion (n = 84) and strength (n = 76) were reported in 130 studies. Other outcome domains included patient-reported outcomes (n = 89), survey-based functional outcomes (n = 50), and tendon properties (n = 53).

Conclusion:

Early functional rehabilitation includes weightbearing and a variety of exercise-based interventions initiated within the first 2 weeks after acute Achilles tendon rupture/repair. Because early functional rehabilitation has lacked a standardized definition, interventions and outcome measures are highly variable, and pooling data across studies should be done with attention paid to what was included in the intervention and how treatment was assessed.
The Difference Between Movement and Self-Recognition in Children Performing the Standing Long Jump
Authors: Yasue Misako , Ueda Takeshi , Fukuda Tomohiro , Adachi Tatsuya , Ozaki Yusuke
Published: November 2019

This study examined the relationship between the recognition of movement and actual movement during the standing long jump. A total of 11 healthy elementary school children from 10 to 11 years of age participated in this study. Participants conducted standing long jumps (the target movement) after receiving video instruction. They were then tested on their recognition of the target movement according to an image. A total of 12 markers were then attached to each participant to measure the actual movements taken during subsequent performances of the target movement. They were then tested on the recognition of their own movements (a self-evaluation). The results were as follows: maximum shoulder angle was observed prior to each jump; this became successively lower in the image review, actual movement, and self-evaluation procedures. Knee flexion angle successively decreased in the actual, target, self-evaluation, and image movements during the railway crossing procedure. While jumping, the maximum shoulder angle was significantly larger in the target movement than the actual ( P < .01) movement, but the actual movement was significantly lower than the image ( P < .001) and self-evaluation ( P < .001) movements. The angle between the perpendicular from the acromion and the line segment connecting the acromion to the lateral malleolus successively decreased in the target, image, self-evaluation, and actual movements. Thus, there were obvious points at which it was either easier or more difficult for subjects to recognize movements. Points of relative ease and difficulty were also identified during performance of the target movement.
Emulation of Community Water Fluoridation Coverage Across US Counties
Authors: Curiel J.A. , Sanders A.E. , Slade G.D.
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Expansion of community water fluoridation has stalled in the United States, leaving 115 million Americans without fluoridated drinking water.

Objective:

This study used spatial regression methods to assess contributions of supply-side factors (neighboring counties’ fluoridation coverage) and demand-side factors (health literacy, education, and population density of the local county) in predicting the extent of fluoridation in US counties.

Methods:

For this cross-sectional ecological analysis, data from the 2014 Water Fluoridation Reporting System for all 3,135 US counties were merged with sociodemographic data from the 2014 American Community Survey and county-level estimates of health literacy based on the National Association of Adult Literacy Survey. We employed multilevel geographically weighted autoregressive models to predict fluoridation coverage of each county as a function of fluoridation coverage of neighboring counties and local-county covariates: either health literacy or sociodemographic characteristics. Akaike’s Information Criterion was used to distinguish the better model in terms of explanatory power and parsimony.

Results:

In the best-fit model, an increase from the first to third quartile of neighboring counties’ fluoridation coverage was associated with an increase of 27.76 percentage points (95% confidence limits [CI] = 27.71, 27.81) in a local county’s fluoridation coverage, while an increase from the first to third quartile of local county’s health literacy was associated with an increase of 2.8 percentage points (95% CL = 2.68, 2.89). The results are consistent with a process of emulation, in which counties implement fluoridation based upon their population’s health literacy and the extent of fluoridation practiced in neighboring counties.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that demand for community water fluoridation will increase as health literacy increases within a county. Furthermore, when considering expansion of fluoridation, non-fluoridated communities can benefit from precedents from nearby communities that are fluoridated.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Expanded coverage of community water fluoridation has stalled in the United States. The economic theory of diffusion describes how, over time and space, policy enacted in one community can influence public opinion in a neighboring community. This study applies geospatial analysis of county-level data and the theory of policy diffusion to demonstrate that fluoridated counties can promote the implementation of community water fluoridation in their neighboring, non-fluoridated communities.
Tackling the triple threats of childhood malnutrition
Authors: Mwangome Martha , Prentice Andrew M.
Published: November 2019

The term ‘double burden of malnutrition’ is usually interpreted in terms of the physical status of children: stunted and wasted children on the one hand and overweight/obese children on the other. There is a third category of malnutrition that can occur at either end of the anthropometric spectrum or, indeed, in children whose physical size may be close to ideal. This third type is most commonly articulated with the phrase ‘hidden hunger’ and is often illustrated by micronutrient deficiencies; thus, we refer to it here as ‘undernutrition’. As understanding of such issues advances, we realise that there is a myriad of factors that may be influencing a child’s road to nutritional health. In this BMC Medicine article collection we consider these influences and the impact they have, such as: the state of the child’s environment; the effect this has on their risk of, and responses to, infection and on their gut; the consequences of poor nutrition on cognition and brain development; the key drivers of the obesity epidemic across the globe; and how undernourishment can affect a child’s body composition. This collection showcases recent advances in the field, but likewise highlights ongoing challenges in the battle to achieve adequate nutrition for children across the globe.
Correction to: Monitoring changes in malaria epidemiology and effectiveness of interventions in Ethiopia and Uganda: Beyond Garki Project baseline survey
Authors: Abeku Tarekegn A. , Helinski Michelle E. H. , Kirby Matthew J. , Kefyalew Takele , Awano Tessema , Batisso Esey , Tesfaye Gezahegn , Ssekitooleko James , Nicholas Sarala , Erdmanis Laura , Nalwoga Angela , Bass Chris , Cose Stephen , Assefa Ashenafi , Kebede Zelalem , Habte Tedila , Katamba Vincent , Nuwa Anthony , Bakeera-Ssali Stella , Akiror Sarah C. , Kyomuhangi Irene , Tekalegne Agonafer , Magumba Godfrey , Meek Sylvia R.
Published: November 2019

Please be advised that one of the author names is incorrectly spelled in the published article: ‘Irene Kyomuhagi’ should be ‘Irene Kyomuhangi’.
DNA methylation aging clocks: challenges and recommendations
Authors: Bell Christopher G. , Lowe Robert , Adams Peter D. , Baccarelli Andrea A. , Beck Stephan , Bell Jordana T. , Christensen Brock C. , Gladyshev Vadim N. , Heijmans Bastiaan T. , Horvath Steve , Ideker Trey , Issa Jean-Pierre J. , Kelsey Karl T. , Marioni Riccardo E. , Reik Wolf , Relton Caroline L. , Schalkwyk Leonard C. , Teschendorff Andrew E. , Wagner Wolfgang , Zhang Kang , Rakyan Vardhman K.
Published: November 2019

Epigenetic clocks comprise a set of CpG sites whose DNA methylation levels measure subject age. These clocks are acknowledged as a highly accurate molecular correlate of chronological age in humans and other vertebrates. Also, extensive research is aimed at their potential to quantify biological aging rates and test longevity or rejuvenating interventions. Here, we discuss key challenges to understand clock mechanisms and biomarker utility. This requires dissecting the drivers and regulators of age-related changes in single-cell, tissue- and disease-specific models, as well as exploring other epigenomic marks, longitudinal and diverse population studies, and non-human models. We also highlight important ethical issues in forensic age determination and predicting the trajectory of biological aging in an individual.
The International/Canadian Hereditary Angioedema Guideline
Authors: Betschel Stephen , Badiou Jacquie , Binkley Karen , Borici-Mazi Rozita , Hébert Jacques , Kanani Amin , Keith Paul , Lacuesta Gina , Waserman Susan , Yang Bill , Aygören-Pürsün Emel , Bernstein Jonathan , Bork Konrad , Caballero Teresa , Cicardi Marco , Craig Timothy , Farkas Henriette , Grumach Anete , Katelaris Connie , Longhurst Hilary , Riedl Marc , Zuraw Bruce , Berger Magdelena , Boursiquot Jean-Nicolas , Boysen Henrik , Castaldo Anthony , Chapdelaine Hugo , Connors Lori , Fu Lisa , Goodyear Dawn , Haynes Alison , Kamra Palinder , Kim Harold , Lang-Robertson Kelly , Leith Eric , McCusker Christine , Moote Bill , O’Keefe Andrew , Othman Ibraheem , Poon Man-Chiu , Ritchie Bruce , St-Pierre Charles , Stark Donald , Tsai Ellie
Published: November 2019

This is an update to the 2014 Canadian Hereditary Angioedema Guideline with an expanded scope to include the management of hereditary angioedema (HAE) patients worldwide. It is a collaboration of Canadian and international HAE experts and patient groups led by the Canadian Hereditary Angioedema Network. The objective of this guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations, using the GRADE system, for the management of patients with HAE. This includes the treatment of attacks, short-term prophylaxis, long-term prophylaxis, and recommendations for self-administration, individualized therapy, quality of life, and comprehensive care. New to the 2019 version of this guideline are sections covering the diagnosis and recommended therapies for acute treatment in HAE patients with normal C1-INH, as well as sections on pregnant and paediatric patients, patient associations and an HAE registry. Hereditary angioedema results in random and often unpredictable attacks of painful swelling typically affecting the extremities, bowel mucosa, genitals, face and upper airway. Attacks are associated with significant functional impairment, decreased health-related quality of life, and mortality in the case of laryngeal attacks. Caring for patients with HAE can be challenging due to the complexity of this disease. The care of patients with HAE in Canada, as in many countries, continues to be neither optimal nor uniform. It lags behind some other countries where there are more organized models for HAE management, and greater availability of additional licensed therapeutic options. It is anticipated that providing this guideline to caregivers, policy makers, patients, and advocates will not only optimize the management of HAE, but also promote the importance of individualized care. The primary target users of this guideline are healthcare providers who are managing patients with HAE. Other healthcare providers who may use this guideline are emergency and intensive care physicians, primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, dentists, otolaryngologists, paediatricians, and gynaecologists who will encounter patients with HAE and need to be aware of this condition. Hospital administrators, insurers and policy makers may also find this guideline helpful.
Putative stem cells in the hemolymph and in the intestinal submucosa of the solitary ascidian Styela plicata
Authors: Jiménez-Merino Juan , Santos de Abreu Isadora , Hiebert Laurel S. , Allodi Silvana , Tiozzo Stefano , De Barros Cintia M. , Brown Federico D.
Published: November 2019

Background

In various ascidian species, circulating stem cells have been documented to be involved in asexual reproduction and whole-body regeneration. Studies of these cell population(s) are mainly restricted to colonial species. Here, we investigate the occurrence of circulating stem cells in the solitaryStyela plicata,a member of the Styelidae, a family with at least two independent origins of coloniality.

Results

Using flow cytometry, we characterized a population of circulating putative stem cells (CPSCs) inS. plicataand determined two gates likely enriched with CPSCs based on morphology and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. We found an ALDH + cell population with low granularity, suggesting a stem-like state. In an attempt to uncover putative CPSCs niches inS.plicata, we performed a histological survey for hemoblast-like cells, followed by immunohistochemistry with stem cell and proliferation markers. The intestinal submucosa (IS) showed high cellular proliferation levels and high frequency of undifferentiated cells and histological and ultrastructural analyses revealed the presence of hemoblast aggregations in the IS suggesting a possible niche. Finally, we document the first ontogenetic appearance of distinct metamorphic circulatory mesenchyme cells, which precedes the emergence of juvenile hemocytes.

Conclusions

We find CPSCs in the hemolymph of the solitary ascidianStyela plicata, presumably involved in the regenerative capacity of this species. The presence of proliferating and undifferentiated mesenchymal cells suggests IS as a possible niche.
Identifying the homology of the short human pisiform and its lost ossification center
Authors: Kjosness Kelsey M. , Reno Philip L.
Published: November 2019

Background

The pisiform and calcaneus are paralogous bones of the wrist and ankle and are the only carpal and tarsal, respectively, to develop from two ossification centers with an associated growth plate in mammals. Human pisiforms and calcanei have undergone drastic evolutionary changes since our last common ancestor with chimpanzees and bonobos. The human pisiform is truncated and has lost an ossification center with the associated growth plate, while the human calcaneus has expanded and retained two ossification centers and a growth plate. Mammalian pisiforms represent a wide range of morphologies but extremely short pisiforms are rare and ossification center loss is even rarer. This raises the question of whether the sole human pisiform ossification center is homologous to the primary center or the secondary center of other species. We performed an ontogenetic study of pisiform and calcaneus ossification patterns and timing in macaques, apes, and humans (n = 907) from museum skeletal collections to address this question.

Results

Human pisiforms ossify irregularly and lack characteristic features of other primates while they develop. Pisiform primary and secondary center ossification timing typically matches that of the calcaneus of non-human primates, while the human pisiform corresponds with calcaneal secondary center ossification. Finally, human pisiforms ossify at the same dental stages as pisiform and calcaneal secondary centers in other hominoids.

Conclusions

These data indicate that the human pisiform is homologous to the pisiform epiphysis of other species, and that humans have lost a primary ossification center and associated growth plate while retaining ossification timing of the secondary center. This represents an exceptional evolutionary event and demonstrates a profound developmental change in the human wrist that is unusual not only among primates, but among mammals.
Four types of scrapie in goats differentiated from each other and bovine spongiform encephalopathy by biochemical methods
Authors: Langeveld Jan P. M. , Pirisinu Laura , Jacobs Jorg G. , Mazza Maria , Lantier Isabelle , Simon Stéphanie , Andréoletti Olivier , Acin Cristina , Esposito Elena , Fast Christine , Groschup Martin , Goldmann Wilfred , Spiropoulos John , Sklaviadis Theodoros , Lantier Frederic , Ekateriniadou Loukia , Papasavva-Stylianou Penelope , van Keulen Lucien J. M. , Acutis Pier-Luigi , Agrimi Umberto , Bossers Alex , Nonno Romolo
Published: November 2019

Scrapie in goats has been known since 1942, the archetype of prion diseases in which only prion protein (PrP) in misfolded state (PrPSc) acts as infectious agent with fatal consequence. Emergence of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) with its zoonotic behaviour and detection in goats enhanced fears that its source was located in small ruminants. However, in goats knowledge on prion strain typing is limited. A European-wide study is presented concerning the biochemical phenotypes of the protease resistant fraction of PrPSc (PrPres) in over thirty brain isolates from transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) affected goats collected in seven countries. Three different scrapie forms were found: classical scrapie (CS), Nor98/atypical scrapie and one case of CH1641 scrapie. In addition, CS was found in two variants—CS-1 and CS-2 (mainly Italy)—which differed in proteolytic resistance of the PrPresN-terminus. Suitable PrPres markers for discriminating CH1641 from BSE (C-type) appeared to be glycoprofile pattern, presence of two triplets instead of one, and structural (in)stability of its core amino acid region. None of the samples exhibited BSE like features. BSE and these four scrapie types, of which CS-2 is new, can be recognized in goats with combinations of a set of nine biochemical parameters.
The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among African asylum seeking children residing in Tel Aviv
Authors: Koren Gideon , Ross Lielle , Zwang Oren , Benari Orel
Published: November 2019

Background

It has been the impression of pediatricians at the Terem Clinic for African asylum seekers in Tel Aviv that they encounter large numbers of anemic children.

The objectives of this study were 1) to quantify the prevalence of anemia among African African asylum seeking children treated in the Terem Clinic for refugees in Tel Aviv; 2) to compare it to the rates among Jewish Israeli children; 3) and to correlate it with their nutritional iron intake. Overall, this effort aims at informing changes in policies and practices that will ensure healthy development of African asylum seeking children in Israel.

Methods

The prevalence of anemia was calculated for all toddlers and children under the age of twelve years visiting the refugee clinic and compared to the recently reported rates of anemia among urban Jewish Israeli children of similar ages; Nutritional iron intake was calculated in a subgroup by a food frequency questionnaire translated to Amharic and Tigrinya.

Results

Mean age of the children (SD) was 2.96 yr. (SD 2.77) and mean hemoglobin 10.88 g/dl (1.47). Out of 386 eligible children, 131(34%) were anemic, fourfold more prevalent than reported among 263 Jewish toddlers and young children of the same age group [(11%), OR 4.15(95% ci 2.67–6.43)].

In a subgroup (n = 26) investigated for amount of daily iron intake, 46.2% did not receive the recommended daily allowance for their age. Nine of them had received iron supplements.

Conclusions

Low hemoglobin levels are four-fold more prevalent among the African asylum seeking children. The dietary data suggest iron deficiency as a major cause, although other etiologies need to be ruled out. Because of the adverse long term impact of early anemia on child development, new policies need to be developed to ensure that refugee children develop in a healthy manner. These should include routine mandatory supplements of iron for all refugee children, in parallel to developing an educational program for parents how to achieve iron-sufficient diets for their children. Further research is needed to guide public health action for these children.
Infrared pupillometry to help predict neurological outcome for patients achieving return of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Monk Alex , Patil Shashank
Published: November 2019

Background

Despite advances in resuscitation care, mortality rates following cardiac arrest (CA) remain high. Between one-quarter (in-hospital CA) and two-thirds (out of hospital CA) of patients admitted comatose to intensive care die of neurological injury. Neuroprognostication determines an informed and timely withdrawal of life sustaining treatment (WLST), sparing the patient unnecessary suffering, alleviating family distress and allowing a more utilitarian use of resources. The latest Resuscitation Council UK (2015) guidance on post-resuscitation care provides the current multi-modal neuroprognostication strategy to predict neurological outcome. Its modalities include neurological examination, neurophysiological tests, biomarkers and radiology. Despite each of the current strategy’s predictive modalities exhibiting limitations, meta-analyses show that three, namely PLR (pupillary light reflex), CR (corneal reflex) and N20 SSEP (somatosensory-evoked potential), accurately predict poor neurological outcome with low false positive rates. However, the quality of evidence is low, reducing confidence in the strategy’s results. While infrared pupillometry (IRP) is not currently used as a prognostication modality, it can provide a quantitative and objective measure of pupillary size and PLR, giving a definitive view of the second and third cranial nerve activity, a predictor of neurological outcome.

Methods

The proposed study will test the hypothesis, “in those patients who remain comatose following return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after CA, IRP can be used early to help predict poor neurological outcome”. A comprehensive review of the evidence using a PRISMA-P (2015) compliant methodology will be underpinned by systematic searching of electronic databases and the two authors selecting and screening eligible studies using the Cochrane data extraction and assessment template. Randomised controlled trials and retrospective and prospective studies will be included, and the quality and strength of evidence will be assessed using the Grading  of Recommendation, Assessment and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Discussion

IRP requires rudimentary skill and is objective and repeatable. As a clinical prognostication modality, it may be utilised early, when the strategy’s other modalities are not recommended. Corroboration in the evidence would promote early use of IRP and a reduction in ICU bed days.

Systematic review registration

PROSPEROCRD42018118180