bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posterior circulation stroke: machine learning-based detection of early ischemic changes in acute non-contrast CT scans
Authors: Kniep Helge C. , Sporns Peter B. , Broocks Gabriel , Kemmling André , Nawabi Jawed , Rusche Thilo , Fiehler Jens , Hanning Uta
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Triage of patients with basilar artery occlusion for additional imaging diagnostics, therapy planning, and initial outcome prediction requires assessment of early ischemic changes in early hyperacute non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scans. However, accuracy of visual evaluation is impaired by inter- and intra-reader variability, artifacts in the posterior fossa and limited sensitivity for subtle density shifts. We propose a machine learning approach for detecting early ischemic changes in pc-ASPECTS regions (Posterior circulation Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) based on admission NCCTs.

Methods

The retrospective study includes 552 pc-ASPECTS regions (144 with infarctions in follow-up NCCTs) extracted from pre-therapeutic early hyperacute scans of 69 patients with basilar artery occlusion that later underwent successful recanalization. We evaluated 1218 quantitative image features utilizing random forest algorithms with fivefold cross-validation for the ability to detect early ischemic changes in hyperacute images that lead to definitive infarctions in follow-up imaging. Classifier performance was compared to conventional readings of two neuroradiologists.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic area under the curves for detection of early ischemic changes were 0.70 (95% CI [0.64; 0.75]) for cerebellum to 0.82 (95% CI [0.77; 0.86]) for thalamus. Predictive performance of the classifier was significantly higher compared to visual reading for thalamus, midbrain, and pons (Pvalue < 0.05).

Conclusions

Quantitative features of early hyperacute NCCTs can be used to detect early ischemic changes in pc-ASPECTS regions. The classifier performance was higher or equal to results of human raters. The proposed approach could facilitate reproducible analysis in research and may allow standardized assessments for outcome prediction and therapy planning in clinical routine.
External validation of a prediction model and decision tree for sickness absence due to mental disorders
Authors: van Hoffen Marieke F. A. , Norder Giny , Twisk Jos W. R. , Roelen Corné A. M.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

A previously developed prediction model and decision tree were externally validated for their ability to identify occupational health survey participants at increased risk of long-term sickness absence (LTSA) due to mental disorders.

Methods

The study population consisted of N = 3415 employees in mobility services who were invited in 2016 for an occupational health survey, consisting of an online questionnaire measuring the health status and working conditions, followed by a preventive consultation with an occupational health provider (OHP). The survey variables of the previously developed prediction model and decision tree were used for predicting mental LTSA (no = 0, yes = 1) at 1-year follow-up. Discrimination between survey participants with and without mental LTSA was investigated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

A total of n = 1736 (51%) non-sick-listed employees participated in the survey and 51 (3%) of them had mental LTSA during follow-up. The prediction model discriminated (AUC = 0.700; 95% CI 0.628–0.773) between participants with and without mental LTSA during follow-up. Discrimination by the decision tree (AUC = 0.671; 95% CI 0.589–0.753) did not differ significantly (p = 0.62) from discrimination by the prediction model.

Conclusion

At external validation, the prediction model and the decision tree both poorly identified occupational health survey participants at increased risk of mental LTSA. OHPs could use the decision tree to determine if mental LTSA risk factors should be explored in the preventive consultation which follows after completing the survey questionnaire.
Young children with Noonan syndrome: evaluation of feeding problems
Authors: Draaisma Jos M. T. , Drossaers Joris , van den Engel-Hoek Lenie , Leenders Erika , Geelen Joyce
Published: May 2020

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a common genetic syndrome with a high variety in phenotype. Even though genetic testing is possible, NS is still a clinical diagnosis. Feeding problems are often present in infancy. We investigated the feeding status of 108 patients with clinically and genetically confirmed NS. Only patients with a documented feeding status before the age of 6 were included. A distinction was made between patients with early onset feeding problems (< 1 year) and children with late onset feeding problems (> 1 year). Seventy-one of 108 patients had feeding problems, of which 40 patients required tube feeding. Children with a genetic mutation other than PTPN11 and SOS1 had significantly more feeding problems in the first year. Fifty-two of all 108 patients experienced early onset feeding problems, of which 33 required tube feeding. A strong decrease in prevalence of feeding problems was found after the first year of life. Fifteen children developed feeding problems later in life, of which 7 required tube feeding.

Conclusion: Feeding problems occur frequently in children with NS, especially in children with NS based on genetic mutations other than PTPN11 and SOS1. Feeding problems develop most often in infancy and decrease with age.

What is Known:• Young children with Noonan syndrome may have transient feeding problems.• Most of them will need tube feeding.

What is New:• This is the first study of feeding problems in patients with clinically and genetically proven Noonan syndrome.• Feeding problems most often develop in infancy and resolve between the age of 1 and 2.
Sleep problems increase the risk of musculoskeletal pain in boys but not girls: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Andreucci Alessandro , Campbell Paul , Mundy Lisa K , Sawyer Susan M , Kosola Silja , Patton George C , Dunn Kate M
Published: May 2020

Adults with sleep problems are at higher risk for onset of musculoskeletal pain, but the evidence is less clear for children. This prospective cohort study investigated whether children with sleep problems are at higher risk for onset of musculoskeletal pain and explored whether sex is a modifier of this association. In a prospective cohort study of Australian schoolchildren (n = 1239, mean age 9 years), the associations between sleep problems at baseline and new onset of both musculoskeletal pain and persistent musculoskeletal pain (pain lasting > 3 months) 1 year later were investigated using logistic regression. The potential modifying effect of sex was also assessed. One-year incidence proportion for musculoskeletal pain onset is 43% and 7% for persistent musculoskeletal pain. Sleep problems were associated with musculoskeletal pain onset and persistent musculoskeletal pain onset in boys, odds ratio 2.80 (95% CI 1.39, 5.62) and OR 3.70 (1.30, 10.54), respectively, but not girls OR 0.58 (0.28, 1.19) and OR 1.43 (0.41, 4.95), respectively.

Conclusions: Rates of musculoskeletal pain are high in children. Boys with sleep problems are at greater risk of onset of musculoskeletal pain, but girls do not appear to have higher risk. Consideration of sleep health may help prevent persistent musculoskeletal pain in children.

What is Known:• Sleep problems are associated with the onset of musculoskeletal pain in adults.• It is not clear if the association between sleep problems and the onset of musculoskeletal pain is present also in children and if sex plays a role in this association.

What is New:• This is the first large population-based study that has prospectively investigated the relationship between sleep problems and onset of musculoskeletal pain in school-aged children.• Children, especially boys with sleep problems, were at increased risk for the development of persistent musculoskeletal pain.
Bottom mixed layer oxygen dynamics in the Celtic Sea
Authors: Hull Tom , Johnson Martin , Greenwood Naomi , Kaiser Jan
Published: May 2020

The seasonally stratified continental shelf seas are highly productive, economically important environments which are under considerable pressure from human activity. Global dissolved oxygen concentrations have shown rapid reductions in response to anthropogenic forcing since at least the middle of the twentieth century. Oxygen consumption is at the same time linked to the cycling of atmospheric carbon, with oxygen being a proxy for carbon remineralisation and the release of CO2. In the seasonally stratified seas the bottom mixed layer (BML) is partially isolated from the atmosphere and is thus controlled by interplay between oxygen consumption processes, vertical and horizontal advection. Oxygen consumption rates can be both spatially and temporally dynamic, but these dynamics are often missed with incubation based techniques. Here we adopt a Bayesian approach to determining total BML oxygen consumption rates from a high resolution oxygen time-series. This incorporates both our knowledge and our uncertainty of the various processes which control the oxygen inventory. Total BML rates integrate both processes in the water column and at the sediment interface. These observations span the stratified period of the Celtic Sea and across both sandy and muddy sediment types. We show how horizontal advection, tidal forcing and vertical mixing together control the bottom mixed layer oxygen concentrations at various times over the stratified period. Our muddy-sand site shows cyclic spring-neap mediated changes in oxygen consumption driven by the frequent resuspension or ventilation of the seabed. We see evidence for prolonged periods of increased vertical mixing which provide the ventilation necessary to support the high rates of consumption observed.
A first-principles theoretical study of the electronic and optical properties of twisted bilayer GaN structures
Authors: Cai Xiang , Deng Shuo , Li Lijie , Hao Ling
Published: May 2020

Gallium nitride (GaN) is a well-investigated material that is applied in many advanced power electronic and optoelectronic devices due to its wide bandgap. However, derivatives of its monolayer form, such as bilayer structures, have rarely been reported. We study herein the electronic and optical properties of GaN bilayer structures that are rotated in the plane at several optimized angles by using the density functional theory method. To maintain the structural stability and use a small cell size, the twisting angles of the GaN bilayer structures are optimized to be 27.8°, 38.2°, and 46.8° using the crystal matching theory. The band-structure analysis reveals that the bandgap is wider for the twisted structures compared with the nontwisted case. The simulation results provide the absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, reflectivity, and refractive index at these angles. The spectra of all these optical properties match with the bandgap values. The simulated refractive index of the bilayer structures at all the twisting angles including 0° is smaller than that of bulk GaN, indicating a reduced scattering loss for optoelectronics applications. Considering the results of this analysis, the possible applications may include low-loss integrated electronic and optical devices and systems.
Co-trimoxazole induced hyperkalemia and potassium monitoring in hospitalized patients
Authors: Plantaz Milan M. E. A. , Veldman Bart A. J. , Esselink Anne C. , Fleuren Hanneke W. H. A. , Kramers Cornelis
Published: May 2020

Background Co-trimoxazole is an antibiotic combination used for the treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, amongst others. Co-trimoxazole is known to increase serum potassium. For this reason, Dutch guidelines advise serum potassium monitoring in high-risk patients. Objective This study aimed to determine average serum potassium rise after administration of intravenous co-trimoxazole in hospitalized patients, compared to intravenous ceftriaxone. This study also aimed to determine adherence to Dutch guidelines by measuring the incidence of serum potassium monitoring in these patients. Setting Five departments of the Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, a teaching hospital in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Method Data was collected and compared from patients that received intravenous co-trimoxazole (n = 66) and intravenous ceftriaxone (n = 132) in the period of November 2008–November 2017. For each patient using co-trimoxazole, two patients using ceftriaxone were included in a paired fashion. Baseline and follow-up potassium were collected, if available. Additionally, it was tested if serum potassium was measured around the initiation of antibiotic therapy. Main outcome measure Changes in serum potassium where obtainable in 30 patients using cotrimoxazole and 40 patients using ceftriaxone. When compared to ceftriaxone, administration of intravenous co-trimoxazole was associated with a significant mean increase in serum potassium (+ 0.55 mmol/l, 95% CI 0.29–0.80, p < 0.001). After correction for confounders (baseline potassium, estimated glomerular filtration rate 30 to < 60, the presence of haematological malignancies and the usage of corticosteroids), this effect shrunk noticeably, but remained significant (+ 0.28 mmol/l, 95% CI 0.03–0.53, p = 0.031). Results The incidence of hyperkalemia at follow-up was 20% in the cotrimoxazole group, compared to 5% in the ceftriaxone group. Despite this, serum potassium was often not measured in patients using intravenous cotrimoxazole, being 76% at baseline and 55% in the period of 48–120 h after antibiotic therapy initiation, compared to 87% and 34% in the ceftriaxone group respectively. Conclusion Adherence to Dutch guidelines was poor as serum potassium monitoring was often not performed. As intravenous co-trimoxazole usage is associated with a significant increase in mean serum potassium, monitoring is strongly recommended.
Reconciliation of research on forest carbon sequestration and water conservation
Authors: Farooqi Tanzeel Javaid Aini , Li Xuhua , Yu Zhen , Liu Shirong , Sun Osbert Jianxin
Published: May 2020

Carbon sequestration and water conservation are two of the key ecosystem services that forests provide for societal need to address environmental issues. Optimization of the dual services is the ultimate goal in forest management for mitigating global climate change and safeguarding terrestrial water balance. However, there are some tradeoffs between gain in forest productivity and ecosystem water balance. We conducted literature review based on published articles for learned knowledge on forest carbon fixation and hydrological regulations. Some knowledge gaps and research needs are identified by examining the inter-connections between forest carbon sequestration and water conservation. Past researches have helped gain basic understanding of the mechanisms and controls of forest carbon fixation and hydrological regulations as two separate issues. Tools and approaches are well established for quantifying and monitoring forest carbon and hydrological issues, operating at different spatial and temporal scales. There are knowledge gaps on how to design afforestation schemes facilitating enhanced ecosystem services in forest carbon sequestration and water conservation. For the top-down planning of afforestation in regions where water availability is anticipated to be problematic, the questions of how much and where to plant for given land availability, known environmental implications, and sustained regional development and livelihood need to be addressed. For local management considerations, the questions of what and how to plant prevail. Efforts are needed in joint studies of forest carbon sequestration and water conservation functionalities, specifically in relation to establishment and management of planted forests aiming for delivering regulatory ecosystem services in carbon sequestration, water conservation and other social values. We propose an integrated framework with dual consideration of carbon sequestration and water conservation in forest management for future research pursue.
Characteristics of high-rank coal structure parallel and perpendicular to the bedding plane via NMR and X-ray CT
Authors: Liu Shi-Qi , Sang Shu-Xun , Hu Qiu-Jia , Fang Hui-Huang
Published: May 2020

Pores and fractures and their connectivity play a significant role in coalbed methane production. To investigate the growth characteristics and connectivity of pores and fractures in coal parallel and perpendicular to the bedding plane, the pores and fractures of high-rank coal samples collected from the southern Qinshui Basin were measured by low-field nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray-computed tomography and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Then, the determinants of their connectivity were further discussed. The results show that the high-rank coal samples have similar pore size distributions both parallel and perpendicular to the bedding plane. They primarily contain mesopores (2–50 nm in width), followed by macrospores (> 50 nm in width). The research indicated that the high-rank coal connectivity parallel to the bedding plane is significantly better than that perpendicular to the bedding plane. The connectivity of high-rank coal is mainly determined by throats, and the orientation of the pores and fractures. The two connectivity modes in high-rank coal are “pore connectivity,” in which the throats are mainly pores with a low coordination number, and “microfissure connectivity”, in which the throats are mainly microfissures with a high coordination number.
The Effects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Intervention on Inflammation and Stress Biomarkers: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Järvelä-Reijonen Elina , Puttonen Sampsa , Karhunen Leila , Sairanen Essi , Laitinen Jaana , Kolehmainen Mikko , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Kujala Urho M , Korpela Riitta , Ermes Miikka , Lappalainen Raimo , Kolehmainen Marjukka
Published: May 2020

Background

Psychological processes can be manifested in physiological health. We investigated whether acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), targeted on psychological flexibility (PF), influences inflammation and stress biomarkers among working-age adults with psychological distress and overweight/obesity.

Method

Participants were randomized into three parallel groups: (1) ACT-based face-to-face (n = 65; six group sessions led by a psychologist), (2) ACT-based mobile (n = 73; one group session and mobile app), and (3) control (n = 66; only the measurements). Systemic inflammation and stress markers were analyzed at baseline, at 10 weeks after the baseline (post-intervention), and at 36 weeks after the baseline (follow-up). General PF and weight-related PF were measured with questionnaires (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire for Weight-Related Difficulties).

Results

A group × time interaction (p = .012) was detected in the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) level but not in other inflammation and stress biomarkers. hsCRP decreased significantly in the face-to-face group from week 0 to week 36, and at week 36, hsCRP was lower among the participants in the face-to-face group than in the mobile group (p = .035, post hoc test). Age and sex were stronger predictors of biomarker levels at follow-up than the post-intervention PF.

Conclusion

The results suggest that ACT delivered in group sessions may exert beneficial effects on low-grade systemic inflammation. More research is needed on how to best apply psychological interventions for the health of both mind and body among people with overweight/obesity and psychological distress.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.govIdentifier: NCT01738256, Registered 17 August, 2012
An ETA Prediction Model for Intermodal Transport Networks Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Balster Andreas , Hansen Ole , Friedrich Hanno , Ludwig André
Published: May 2020

Transparency in transport processes is becoming increasingly important for transport companies to improve internal processes and to be able to compete for customers. One important element to increase transparency is reliable, up-to-date and accurate arrival time prediction, commonly referred to as estimated time of arrival (ETA). ETAs are not easy to determine, especially for intermodal freight transports, in which freight is transported in an intermodal container, using multiple modes of transportation. This computational study describes the structure of an ETA prediction model for intermodal freight transport networks (IFTN), in which schedule-based and non-schedule-based transports are combined, based on machine learning (ML). For each leg of the intermodal freight transport, an individual ML prediction model is developed and trained using the corresponding historical transport data and external data. The research presented in this study shows that the ML approach produces reliable ETA predictions for intermodal freight transport. These predictions comprise processing times at logistics nodes such as inland terminals and transport times on road and rail. Consequently, the outcome of this research allows decision makers to proactively communicate disruption effects to actors along the intermodal transportation chain. These actors can then initiate measures to counteract potential critical delays at subsequent stages of transport. This approach leads to increased process efficiency for all actors in the realization of complex transport operations and thus has a positive effect on the resilience and profitability of IFTNs.
Feasibility study and numerical simulation to design the steam flooding pilot test patterns
Authors: Elbaloula Husham A. , Jin’e Chen , Zichang Tang , Yu Wang , Abdelmajeed Mohammed , Hamd Mosab F.
Published: May 2020

Steam flooding is a method of injecting steam to heat the oil and decrease its viscosity so that it will be easy to flow from injector to producer. Fula North East oil field is a massive edge and bottom water reservoir with good properties and high viscosity of crude oil. As of March 2018, the oil field has been fully commissioned in steam stimulation for 3 years and the water cut rises rapidly and the oil rate declines seriously. In this paper, through comprehensive analysis of the geological properties of reservoir, production dynamics of single well and cement quality of wellbore, the steam flooding pilot test area under different well groups is screened out. Advanced thermal enhanced oil recovery simulator has been used to build the model of 279, 888 cells to design and optimize steam flooding pilot area for this field. The best well space and development program are optimized; this paper supplies a theoretical foundation for the next step of steam flooding in the whole field. The results show that the optimum steam flooding parameters for this area are steam injection temperature of 270 °C, with 5–7 MPa injection pressure, steam injection quality of more than 0.6 and steam injection rate of 1.6 m3/day/ha/m, and the final recovery ratio will reach 32.3%.
A practical guide to amplicon and metagenomic analysis of microbiome data
Authors: Liu Yong-Xin , Qin Yuan , Chen Tong , Lu Meiping , Qian Xubo , Guo Xiaoxuan , Bai Yang
Published: May 2020

Advances in high-throughput sequencing (HTS) have fostered rapid developments in the field of microbiome research, and massive microbiome datasets are now being generated. However, the diversity of software tools and the complexity of analysis pipelines make it difficult to access this field. Here, we systematically summarize the advantages and limitations of microbiome methods. Then, we recommend specific pipelines for amplicon and metagenomic analyses, and describe commonly-used software and databases, to help researchers select the appropriate tools. Furthermore, we introduce statistical and visualization methods suitable for microbiome analysis, including alpha- and beta-diversity, taxonomic composition, difference comparisons, correlation, networks, machine learning, evolution, source tracing, and common visualization styles to help researchers make informed choices. Finally, a step-by-step reproducible analysis guide is introduced. We hope this review will allow researchers to carry out data analysis more effectively and to quickly select the appropriate tools in order to efficiently mine the biological significance behind the data.
Genome-wide characterization of coding and non-coding RNAs in the ovary of honeybee workers and queens
Authors: Chen Xiao , Shi Wei
Published: May 2020

Adult honeybee queens and workers drastically differ in ovary state and ovary size. However, this reproductive bias is only partially understood from the view of a single RNA type. In this study, we predicted 10,271 mRNAs, 7235 lncRNAs, 11,794 circRNAs, and 164 miRNAs in the ovary of honeybee workers through bioinformatics. Combining RNA sequencing data of honeybee virgin queens, 4385 mRNAs, 2390 lncRNAs, 5602 circRNAs, and 75 miRNAs were differentially expressed in workers compared with virgins. Compared with egg-laying queens, 6536 mRNAs, 3130 lncRNAs, 5751 circRNAs, and 81 miRNAs were differentially expressed in workers. Further, functional annotation revealed that neural regulation was closely related to ovary state. Moreover, the potential interactions among circRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs revealed that vitellogenin, ecdysone-induced protein 74, ame_circ_0001176, and ame_circ_0001243 might play critical roles in the competing endogenous RNA network. These findings suggest that the integrative RNA networks have potential effects in ovarian phenotype differences in honeybees.
Development of an Ultra-Sensitive and Flexible Piezoresistive Flow Sensor Using Vertical Graphene Nanosheets
Authors: Abolpour Moshizi Sajad , Azadi Shohreh , Belford Andrew , Razmjou Amir , Wu Shuying , Han Zhao Jun , Asadnia Mohsen
Published: May 2020

This paper suggests development of a flexible, lightweight, and ultra-sensitive piezoresistive flow sensor based on vertical graphene nanosheets (VGNs) with a mazelike structure. The sensor was thoroughly characterized for steady-state and oscillatory water flow monitoring applications. The results demonstrated a high sensitivity (103.91 mV (mm/s)−1) and a very low-velocity detection threshold (1.127 mm s−1) in steady-state flow monitoring. As one of many potential applications, we demonstrated that the proposed VGNs/PDMS flow sensor can closely mimic the vestibular hair cell sensors housed inside the semicircular canals (SCCs). As a proof of concept, magnetic resonance imaging of the human inner ear was conducted to measure the dimensions of the SCCs and to develop a 3D printed lateral semicircular canal (LSCC). The sensor was embedded into the artificial LSCC and tested for various physiological movements. The obtained results indicate that the flow sensor is able to distinguish minute changes in the rotational axis physical geometry, frequency, and amplitude. The success of this study paves the way for extending this technology not only to vestibular organ prosthesis but also to other applications such as blood/urine flow monitoring, intravenous therapy (IV), water leakage monitoring, and unmanned underwater robots through incorporation of the appropriate packaging of devices.
In steady search for optimization: the role of public and private actors in Switzerland’s political economy of adult education
Authors: Geiss Michael
Published: May 2020

This article reconstructs the changes in the political economy of adult education in Switzerland since the middle of the 20th century. Methodologically, the analysis is based on historical institutionalism and concentrates on path dependencies and critical junctures. It is shown that the Swiss adult education system is neither exclusively a marked-led nor a stakeholder-led regime. Instead, it is demonstrated that the current situation cannot be understood without considering the several government initiatives in the context of digital change since the 1970s as well as the efforts of the private national continuing education association SVEB. The article concludes with reflections on the expected impact of the first national law on continuing education which has been enacted in 2017.
Development of a rapid test kit for SARS-CoV-2: an example of product design
Authors: Cui Zhanfeng , Chang Hong , Wang Hui , Lim Boon , Hsu Chia-Chen , Yu Yejiong , Jia Huidong , Wang Yun , Zeng Yida , Ji Mengmeng , Liu Weizhi , Inverarity Catriona , Huang Wei E.
Published: May 2020

We present an example of applying ‘need-driven’ product design principle to the development of a rapid test kit to detect SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19). The tests are intended for use in the field and, longer term, for home use. They detect whether a subject is currently infected with the virus and is infectious. The urgent need for large numbers of tests in field setting imposes constraints such as short test time and lack of access to specialist equipment, laboratories and skilled technicians to perform the test and interpret results. To meet these needs, an antigen test based on RT-LAMP with colorimetric readout was chosen. Direct use of swab sample with no RNA extraction was explored. After extensive experimental study (reported elsewhere), a rapid test kit has been fabricated to satisfy all design criteria.
Sexual attraction and experiences in the primary care setting: Examining disparities in satisfaction with provider and health self‐efficacy
Authors: Luk Jeremy W. , Parker Elizabeth O. , Richardson Laura P. , McCarty Carolyn A.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

To test whether sexual minority males and females report lower satisfaction with primary care providers and lower health self‐efficacy relative to heterosexual males and females.

Methods

Data from 535 adolescents who participated in one of two randomized clinical trials conducted in a primary care setting were analyzed. Multiple linear regressions controlling for demographic characteristics and treatment condition were used to examine sexual attraction differences in indicators of satisfaction with provider and health self‐efficacy.

Results

Sexual minority and heterosexual youth both endorsed high satisfaction with providers. Relative to heterosexual males, sexual minority males reported lower self‐efficacy in reaching their health goals. Relative to heterosexual females, sexual minority females reported lower confidence in positively impacting their own health, and lower self‐efficacy in setting goals and working actively to improve their health.

Conclusions

Sexual minority youth may benefit from additional support from health care providers to enhance their health self‐efficacy and reach their health goals.
Efficacy and Acceptance of a Lombard-response Device for Hypophonia in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Adams Scott , Kumar Niraj , Rizek Philippe , Hong Angeline , Zhang Jenny , Senthinathan Anita , Mancinelli Cynthia , Knowles Thea , Jog Mandar
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness, satisfaction, and acceptance of a low-cost Lombard-response (LR) device in a group of individuals with Parkinson’s disease (IWPD) and their communication partners (CPs).

Method:

Sixteen IWPD and hypophonia and their CPs participated in the study. The IWPD wore a LR device that included a small MP3 player (Sony Walkman) and headphones playing a multi-talker noise audio file at 80 dB during lab-based speech tasks and during their daily conversational speech over a 2-week device trial period. Outcome measures included average conversational speech intensity and scores on a questionnaire related to speech impairment, communication effectiveness, and device satisfaction.

Results:

Conversational speech intensity of the IWPD is increased by 7 to 10 dB with the LR device. Following a 2-week trial period, eight of the IWPD (50%) gave the LR device moderate-to-high satisfaction and effectiveness ratings and decided to purchase the device for long-term daily use. At the 4-month follow-up, none of the IWPDs were still using the LR device. Device rejection was related to discomfort (loudness), headaches, interference with cognition, and difficulty controlling device.

Conclusion:

Short-term acceptance and satisfaction with the LR device was moderate, but long-term acceptance, beyond 4 months, was absent. Future studies are required to determine if other types of low-cost LR devices can be developed that improve long-term efficacy and device acceptance in IWPD and hypophonia.
Emergency and Disaster Preparedness at a Tertiary Medical City
Authors: AlHarastani Housam Adin M. , Alawad Yousef Ibrahim , Devi Bandana , Mosqueda Benly G. , Tamayo Vanessa , Kyoung Freiha , Abu Shaheen Amani , Sierra Shirley
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the readiness of a tertiary medical cityʼs response to a disaster by assessing the hospital resources and knowledge, attitudes, practices, and familiarity of health care providers toward disaster and emergency preparedness.

Methods:

All KFMC (King Fahad Medical City) staff with > 1 year of clinical experience were eligible to participate in a cross-sectional study. Participants responded to the Emergency Preparedness Information Questionnaire (EPIQ), knowledge and practice questionnaires, and a disaster planning attitude checklist. Data about resources were collected using the hospital disaster preparedness self-assessment tool.

Results:

The overall mean knowledge score for disaster and emergency preparedness was 4.4 ± 1.1, and the mean overall familiarity score was 3.43 ± 0.97. Most participants knew that disaster drills (90.2%) and training (74.6%) are ongoing. Sixty-six (21.0%) agreed that KFMC is unlikely to experience a disaster. The highest and lowest EPIQ familiarity scores were for decontamination (83.0%) and accessing critical resources and reporting (64.3%), respectively. Most participants (99.4%) have access to work computers; however, only 53.0% used the Internet to access information on bioterrorism and/or emergency preparedness. The hospital is ready to respond in case of a disaster according to the used tool.

Conclusions:

The participants’ levels of knowledge, practices, and overall familiarity toward emergency and disaster preparedness were satisfactory; however, participant attitudes and familiarity with where and how to access critical resources in the event of an emergency or disaster situations require reinforcement.
Association between change in self-reported sugar intake and a sugar biomarker (δ13C) in children at increased risk for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Henze Martha M. , Bemis Elizabeth A. , Seifert Jennifer A. , Johnson Randi K. , Dong Fran , Rewers Marian , Norris Jill M.
Published: May 2020

We examined whether change in added sugar intake is associated with change in δ13C, a novel sugar biomarker, in thirty-nine children aged 5–10 years selected from a Colorado (USA) prospective cohort of children at increased risk for type 1 diabetes. Reported added sugar intake via FFQ and δ13C in erythrocytes were measured at two time points a median of 2 years apart. Change in added sugar intake was associated with change in the δ13C biomarker, where for every 1-g increase in added sugar intake between the two time points, there was an increase in δ13C of 0⋅0082 (P = 0⋅0053), independent of change in HbA1c and δ15N. The δ13C biomarker may be used as a measure of compliance in an intervention study of children under the age of 10 years who are at increased risk for type 1 diabetes, in which the goal was to reduce dietary sugar intake.
Lichens and associated fungi from Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Authors: Spribille Toby , Fryday Alan M. , Pérez-Ortega Sergio , Svensson Måns , Tønsberg Tor , Ekman Stefan , Holien Håkon , Resl Philipp , Schneider Kevin , Stabentheiner Edith , Thüs Holger , Vondrák Jan , Sharman Lewis
Published: May 2020

Lichens are widely acknowledged to be a key component of high latitude ecosystems. However, the time investment needed for full inventories and the lack of taxonomic identification resources for crustose lichen and lichenicolous fungal diversity have hampered efforts to fully gauge the depth of species richness in these ecosystems. Using a combination of classical field inventory and extensive deployment of chemical and molecular analysis, we assessed the diversity of lichens and associated fungi in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska (USA), a mixed landscape of coastal boreal rainforest and early successional low elevation habitats deglaciated after the Little Ice Age. We collected nearly 5000 specimens and found a total of 947 taxa, including 831 taxa of lichen-forming and 96 taxa of lichenicolous fungi together with 20 taxa of saprotrophic fungi typically included in lichen studies. A total of 98 species (10.3% of those detected) could not be assigned to known species and of those, two genera and 27 species are described here as new to science:Atrophysma cyanomelanosgen. et sp. nov.,Bacidina circumpulla,Biatora marmorea,Carneothele sphagnicolagen. et sp. nov.,Cirrenalia lichenicola,Corticifraga nephromatis,Fuscidea muskeg,Fuscopannaria dillmaniae,Halecania athallina,Hydropunctaria alaskana,Lambiella aliphatica,Lecania hydrophobica,Lecanora viridipruinosa,Lecidea griseomarginata,L. streveleri,Miriquidica gyrizans,Niesslia peltigerae,Ochrolechia cooperi,Placynthium glaciale,Porpidia seakensis,Rhizocarpon haidense,Sagiolechia phaeospora,Sclerococcum fissurinae,Spilonema maritimum,Thelocarpon immersum,Toensbergia blastidiataandXenonectriella nephromatis. An additional 71 ‘known unknown’ species are cursorily described. Four new combinations are made:Lepra subvelata(G. K. Merr.) T. Sprib.,Ochrolechia minuta(Degel.) T. Sprib.,Steineropsis laceratula(Hue) T. Sprib. & Ekman andToensbergia geminipara(Th. Fr.) T. Sprib. & Resl. Thirty-eight taxa are new to North America and 93 additional taxa new to Alaska. We use four to eight DNA loci to validate the placement of ten of the new species in the ordersBaeomycetales,Ostropales,Lecanorales,Peltigerales,Pertusarialesand the broader class Lecanoromycetes with maximum likelihood analyses. We present a total of 280 new fungal DNA sequences. The lichen inventory from Glacier Bay National Park represents the second largest number of lichens and associated fungi documented from an area of comparable size and the largest to date in North America. Coming from almost 60°N, these results again underline the potential for high lichen diversity in high latitude ecosystems.
Psychological and demographic characteristics of 368 patients with dissociative seizures: data from the CODES cohort
Authors: Goldstein Laura H. , Robinson Emily J. , Mellers John D. C. , Stone Jon , Carson Alan , Chalder Trudie , Reuber Markus , Eastwood Carole , Landau Sabine , McCrone Paul , Moore Michele , Mosweu Iris , Murray Joanna , Perdue Iain , Pilecka Izabela , Richardson Mark P. , Medford Nick ,   on behalf of the CODES Study Group
Published: May 2020

Background

We examined demographic, clinical, and psychological characteristics of a large cohort (n = 368) of adults with dissociative seizures (DS) recruited to the CODES randomised controlled trial (RCT) and explored differences associated with age at onset of DS, gender, and DS semiology.

Methods

Prior to randomisation within the CODES RCT, we collected demographic and clinical data on 368 participants. We assessed psychiatric comorbidity using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) and a screening measure of personality disorder and measured anxiety, depression, psychological distress, somatic symptom burden, emotional expression, functional impact of DS, avoidance behaviour, and quality of life. We undertook comparisons based on reported age at DS onset (<40 v. ⩾40), gender (male v. female), and DS semiology (predominantly hyperkinetic v. hypokinetic).

Results

Our cohort was predominantly female (72%) and characterised by high levels of socio-economic deprivation. Two-thirds had predominantly hyperkinetic DS. Of the total, 69% had ⩾1 comorbid M.I.N.I. diagnosis (median number = 2), with agoraphobia being the most common concurrent diagnosis. Clinical levels of distress were reported by 86% and characteristics associated with maladaptive personality traits by 60%. Moderate-to-severe functional impairment, high levels of somatic symptoms, and impaired quality of life were also reported. Women had a younger age at DS onset than men.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the burden of psychopathology and socio-economic deprivation in a large, heterogeneous cohort of patients with DS. The lack of clear differences based on gender, DS semiology and age at onset suggests these factors do not add substantially to the heterogeneity of the cohort.
Benefit of vessel closure with the Azur CX Peripheral Coil System in small children with complex CHD
Authors: Loureiro Petra , Ewert Peter , Eicken Andreas
Published: May 2020

Vessel occlusion is a frequently used procedure to close congenital or acquired collaterals or communications. We report two cases of successful vessel closure, in small infants with CHD, using the Azur CX Peripheral Coil System. The low profile of the device, the controlled delivery of the coils, and the delivery through a microcatheter make it particularly interesting for the occlusion of highly tortuous vessels in children.
Snacking in Japanese nursery school children aged 3–6 years: its characteristics and contribution to overall dietary intake
Authors: Tajima Ryoko , Murakami Kentaro , Asakura Keiko , Fujiwara Aya , Uechi Ken , Sugimoto Minami , Wang Han-Chieh , Masayasu Shizuko , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: May 2020

Objective:

This cross-sectional study evaluated the dietary characteristics of snacks, the contribution of snacks to daily nutrient intake and the association of energy intake (EI) from snacks with the prevalence of nutritional inadequacy in Japanese nursery school children.

Design:

Foods and nutrients consumed in each eating occasion were assessed by 3-d dietary records. The prevalence of inadequate intake of twenty nutrients assessed by the age- and sex-specific reference values in the Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes was compared according to tertile categories of EI from snacks.

Setting:

A multi-regional dietary survey based on nursery schools in Japan.

Participants

A total of 187 boys and 191 girls aged 3–6 years.

Results:

EI from snacks accounted for 19·5 % (sd 6·9) of total daily EI. Confectionaries accounted for the largest part of EI from snacks (35·3 %), followed by milk (19·5 %). Relative to their energy contribution, snacks accounted for a small proportion for all nutrients examined, except for free sugar, calcium, SFA and riboflavin. Although a higher EI from snacks was associated with favourable profiles for intakes of calcium, iron, thiamine and riboflavin, excessive intakes of free sugar and Na were more prevalent among children with a higher EI from snacks.

Conclusions:

Although snacks are effective in meeting the requirement of some nutrients among Japanese nursery school children, snacks are generally not nutrient-dense and have an impact on excessive intake of some nutrients. There is hence room for improvement in food choices at snack time.
Telocytes in Different Organs of Vertebrates: Potential Essence Cells of the Meridian in Chinese Traditional Medicine
Authors: Yonghong Shi , Ruizhi Wu , Yue Zhang , Xuebing Bai , Tarique Imran , Chunhua Liang , Ping Yang , Qiusheng Chen
Published: May 2020

Telocytes (TCs) are very long, non-neuronal, somatic cells whose function is widely believed to be involved in providing connections between different cells within the body. The cellular characteristics of TCs in various organs have been studied by immunohistochemistry, double immunofluorescence and electron microscopy in different vertebrate species, and here we investigate the proposed properties of these cells in the context of the “meridian” in Chinese Traditional Medicine (CTM). The results show that TCs and their long extensions, telopodes (Tps) develop a complicated network by homo- and heterocellular junctions in the connective tissue throughout the body, which can connect the skin with distant organs. In concept, this is the analogue of ancient meridian maps connecting skin acupoints with the viscera. Various active cells and extracellular vesicles including exosomes move along Tps, which, along with developed mitochondria within the podoms of Tps, may account for the structural evidence for “Qi” (vital energy and signal communication) in CTM. Morphological associations of TCs with the nerve, vascular, endocrine, and immune systems are also compatible with previously proposed meridian theories in CTM. Close relationships exist between TCs and collagen fiber bundles and some structures in skin fascia provide the microanatomical support for acupuncture treatment based on the meridian principle. The dynamicity in the distribution and structure of TCs reflects the plasticity of the meridian at the cellular level. As the same attribute, both the meridian and the TC have been associated with various diseases. Here, we summarize structural analogues between the TC and the meridian, suggesting that TCs have the cytological characteristics of the CTM meridian. We, therefore, hypothesize that TCs are the “essence cells” of the CTM meridian, which can connect and integrate different cells and structures in the connective tissue.
From The Law Librarian to Legal Information Management, from Bulletin to Journal: a Jubilee Year
Authors: Wills David
Published: May 2020

Legal Information Management has reached 50 years since it was launched, under a different name, by the British and Irish Association of Law Librarians (BIALL). In this article the current editor of the journal, David Wills, reviews the history of the journal from its launch in spring 1970 when it took the name The Law Librarian, and describes how it has evolved, often reflecting the changing nature of the legal information profession in those intervening years. He follows the journey as this periodical developed from small beginnings, explains how it was enhanced by successive editors, why it became necessary to change its title in 2001 and describes the move to the current publisher, Cambridge University Press in 2004. He reflects on the current status of the journal, as an electronic product while also retaining its profile in print and, finally, he draws attention to some possible challenges for the future.
A Critical Analysis of the Significance of the eCourts Information Systems in Indian Courts
Authors: Mahibha G. , Balasubramanian P.
Published: May 2020

Technological developments and scientific innovations have enhanced the way people live and work. Courts are places where people seek justice and millions of cases across the globe are examined every day, and judgments are delivered. The courts system in India is on a vast and complex scale. The application and dissemination of information in India has been spreading at a faster pace over the past few decades. This has set the stage for the computerisation of courts to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Indian judicial system. The Indian sub-continent is a highly populated nation and from 2007 the government of India began implementing the eCourts Project as a citizen-centric initiative for expeditious and affordable justice delivery. This article analyses the various dimensions involved in the eCourts process and explains its significance in the justice delivery system in India. In also looks at the various challenges of implementing such a vast system across judicial system of India.