bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State Behaviour at the Universal Periodic Review: An Examination of India’s Third Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council
Authors: Komath Ashwath
Published: April 2020

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) has been a promising instrument in the hands of the United Nations Human Rights Council. With more emphasis on constructive criticism than an adversarial approach, it was thought that this method would help states to improve their human rights records. This article takes the case of India’s last review through this process and derives various trends and patterns of interaction with other states. It starts by outlining the process of the UPR itself and how it works procedurally, after which it highlights India’s presentation of its human rights record, and subsequently how the international community reacted to it. One of the core arguments of this article is that when it comes to human rights, it is important to analyse its politics through a regional lens since geographical continuities determine an overall outlook towards human rights and priorities that states highlight when they consider human rights records on the whole. This is further substantiated by looking at instances when bilateralism has not succeeded in its goals. It also makes certain statistical inferences after close examination of the recommendations posed by states, as well as India’s response (or lack thereof) to those recommendations. The article also highlights certain cases from India’s domestic developments to see how it plays out in the international community and their perception of India’s human rights record.
Brexit, Trump and trade: Back to a late 19th century future?
Authors: Dent Christopher M
Published: April 2020

There are striking similarities between today’s early 21st century trade political economy and its late 19th century equivalent. Ascendant populist nationalism, escalating trade protectionism and tariff wars, growing discontent over globalization’s distributional impacts and fast emerging economic superpowers disrupting the global order are features shared by both periods. This comparative historical analysis explores what lessons and conclusions we may draw from the past late 19th century world that can be applied to today. Integral to this discussion are the prospects of our early 21st century world experiencing a similar endgame of global conflict, as transpired around a century ago. In revisiting the past to better understand the present and future, this paper first evaluates empirical similarities between the trade political economies of both periods. It then applies theories and concepts of economic nationalism, globalization and interdependence in developing deeper conclusions and arguments. Brexit, Trump and their historic parallels serve as primary focal points in this study.
Pathologic Evaluation of Large Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissections: An Analysis of 279 Cases With Emphasis on the Importance of Multidisciplinary Work and Establishing Examination Protocols
Authors: Taşkın Orhun Çığ , Aslan Fatih , Kulaç İbrahim , Yılmaz Serpil , Adsay Volkan , Kapran Yersu
Published: April 2020

Background. Endoscopic submucosal dissections (ESDs) allow removal of large gastrointestinal tumors and help patients avoid major oncologic surgery. In this study, the challenges and development of approaches toward successfully handling ESDs were analyzed in 279 colorectal specimens (114 rectal, 47 left, 118 right colonic; 90% adenoma with/without carcinoma). Methods. Each specimen was processed according to an established protocol including gross photography, mapping, and total submission for histopathologic examination. Results. Mean lesion size was 4.2 cm (range: 0.5-22 cm; 28% ≥5 cm; 6% ≥10 cm). Invasive carcinoma was present in 38 cases (14%), which had a mean overall tumor size of 3.8 cm (range: 1.1-17.5 cm), and mean largest size of the invasive component was 0.93 cm (range: 0.04-3 cm). Fifteen cases were staged as pT1a (submucosal invasion of <1000 µm) and 13 cases as pT1b (submucosal invasion of ≥1000 µm). En-bloc and R0 resection rates were 99.3% and 90.6%, respectively. Conclusion. Various histopathologic challenges were encountered, which were carefully evaluated by dedicated pathologists with familiarity to the subtleties in handling and reporting these specimens. We recommend these specimens to be prepared in the endoscopy suite, submitted to the Pathology Department oriented, pinned, and placed into copious amount of fixative. Total sampling, gross photography, mapping, and proper fixation are crucial components in the histopathologic evaluation. Micromeasurement of invasion depth and substaging per European/Japanese guidelines as well as accurate measurement of the distance from the resection margins are highly recommended. In conclusion, ESD is an adequate method that can be successfully implemented in a tertiary care center to perform en-bloc and margin-free resections of clinically selected large colorectal superficial lesions.
Evidence for Use or Disuse of Renin–Angiotensin System Modulators in Patients Having COVID-19 With an Underlying Cardiorenal Disorder
Authors: Sankrityayan Himanshu , Kale Ajinath , Sharma Nisha , Anders Hans-Joachim , Gaikwad Anil Bhanudas
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 has been declared pandemic by World Health Organization due to an exponential rise in the number of infected and deceased persons across the globe. Emerging reports suggest that susceptibility and mortality rates are higher in patients with certain comorbidities when compared to the average population. Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are important risk factors for a lethal outcome of COVID-19. Extensive research ensuing the outbreak of coronavirus-related severe acute respiratory syndrome in the year 2003, and COVID-19 recently revealed a role of renin–angiotensin system (RAS) components in the entry of coronavirus wherein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) had garnered the significant attention. This raises the question whether the use of RAS inhibitors, the backbone of treatment of cardiovascular, neurovascular, and kidney diseases could increase the susceptibility for coronavirus infection or unfortunate outcomes of COVID-19. Thus, currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding the effects of RAS inhibitors in such patients. Moreover, expert bodies like American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and so on have now released official statements that RAS inhibitors must be continued, unless suggested otherwise by a physician. In this brief review, we will elaborate on the role of RAS and ACE2 in pathogenesis of COVID-19. Moreover, we will discuss the potential effect of the use and disuse of RAS inhibitors in patients having COVID-19 with cardiometabolic comorbidities.
Small-amplitude free vibration analysis of active multistable shells under static multifield loading
Authors: Varelis Dimitris
Published: April 2020

This study considers the small-amplitude free vibrational response performed on top of the quasi-static snap through buckling, which is accompanied by large displacements and rotations of shallow doubly curved laminated piezoelectric shells under multifield loading. The mechanics incorporate coupling between mechanical, electric, and thermal fields and encompass geometric nonlinearity effects due to large quasi-static displacements and rotations. The governing equations are formulated explicitly in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates and combined with the kinematic assumptions of a mixed-field shear-layerwise shell laminate theory. Based on the above mechanics and adopting the finite element methodology, an eight-node nonlinear shell element is developed to yield the linearized discrete coupled small-amplitude dynamic equations of motion. Initially, the nonlinear coupled equations are linearized and solved quasi-statically using an extended cylindrical arc-length method in combination with the Newton–Raphson iterative technique, and subsequently the free vibration analysis is performed at each solution point. Validation and evaluation cases on laminated cylindrical shells demonstrate the accuracy of the present method and its robust capability to predict the modal response on top of the nonlinear quasi-static response of active multistable shells subject to combined thermo–piezo–electromechanical loads. Numerical cases show the feasibility to develop smart shell structures to detect, via the monitoring of natural frequencies, the onset of snap-through instability. The capability of smart shells to actively modify its natural frequencies such as to promote or mitigate snap-through instabilities is quantified. Additional results quantify the effect of thermomechanical loads on actuation capability. The influence of geometric parameters (curvature and thickness) on the modal response is finally investigated.
Vibration and thermal buckling analyses of three-layered centrosymmetric piezoelectric microplates based on the modified consistent couple stress theory
Authors: Abbaspour Fatemeh , Arvin Hadi
Published: April 2020

In this study, free and forced vibration investigations and thermal buckling analysis of three-layered centrosymmetric piezoelectric microplates are examined. To model the size effects, the size-dependent consistent couple stress theory is used. To be compatible with the modified coupled stress theory, a modification is proposed to apply to the consistent couple stress theory. Resorting to the Navier’s approach, the governing equations are treated in the case of simply supported boundary conditions to extract the free and forced vibration outcomes and the thermal buckling numerical results. The verifications demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed modification. The effects of the material length scale parameter and the flexoelectricity coefficient on the findings are investigated. Moreover, the closed- and open-circuit condition impacts on the free and forced vibration and the thermal buckling analyses are studied.
Robust finite-time controller for damping of subsynchronous resonance in doubly fed induction generator wind farm
Authors: Li Penghan , Wang Jie , Xiong Linyun , Ma Meiling , Khan Muhammad W , Huang Sunhua
Published: April 2020

To alleviate subsynchronous resonance in doubly fed induction generator–based wind farm, this study devises a robust nonlinear control for a rotor-side converter based on a fractional-order sliding mode controller. The designed fractional-order sliding mode controller is able to realize finite-time control and reduce the control time compared with terminal sliding mode control, which contributes to the faster mitigation of subsynchronous resonance. Impedance-based analysis and transient simulation are carried out to evaluate the performance of the fractional-order sliding mode controller compared with terminal sliding mode control and subsynchronous damping control. Simulation results verify that the fractional-order sliding mode controller is able to damp SSR within shorter time and effectively reduce the fluctuation range of a system’s transient responses under various working conditions of compensation degrees and wind speeds. Furthermore, the fractional-order sliding mode controller enhances the robustness under external disturbance and parametric uncertainty, ensuring safe operation of the practical wind farm.
The Fractured “I”: An Autoethnographic Account of a Part-Time Doctoral Student’s Experience With Scholarly Identity Formation
Authors: Leach Erin
Published: April 2020

This autoethnographic poetry collection provides an entry into the socialization of part-time doctoral students by centering the lived experience of the author, a part-time doctoral student employed full-time at the university where she studies. In the writing of this poetry collection, the author sought to enter into conversation with the doctoral socialization literature and to uncover the various parts of her fractured identity. Through an examination of her own fractured identity, the author engages with the places where scholarly identity formation is stalled in part-time doctoral students especially in comparison with their full-time peers and considers affective dimensions of the work of scholarly identity formation.
Prognostic factors in progressive high-grade glial tumors treated with systemic approach: A single center experience
Authors: Alan Ozkan , Telli Tugba Akin , Tuylu Tugba Basoglu , Arikan Rukiye , Demircan Nazım Can , Ercelep Ozlem , Kaya Serap , Babacan Nalan Akgul , Atasoy Beste M , Bozkurt Suheyla , Bayri Yasar , Gul Dilek , Ekinci Gazanfer , Ziyal Ibrahim , Dane Faysal , Yumuk P Fulden
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Malignant high-grade gliomas are the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, and the prognosis is generally extremely poor. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the outcome of systemic treatment in recurrent high-grade glioma patients and the impact of prognostic factors on survivals.

Methods

Data from 114 patients with recurrent high-grade glioma who received systemic treatment and followed in our clinic between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, age, gender, histology, type of surgical resection, side effects after systemic treatment (deep vein thrombosis, hypertension, proteinuria), IDH1 and alpha thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X-linked (ATRX) mutation status were investigated as prognostic factors for progression-free survival and overall survival.

Results

At the time of diagnosis, the median age was 48 (17–77) and 68% of the patients were male. Most common pathologic subtype was glioblastoma multiforme (68%). Median follow-up duration was 9.1 months (1–68 months). Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 6.2 months and 8 months, respectively. In multivariate analysis, ECOG PS, deep venous thrombosis and the presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation were found to be independent prognostic factors for progression-free survival (p < 0.05) and, ECOG PS, the presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation for overall survival (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study is real life data and the median progression-free survival and overall survival rates are similar to the literature. We have found ECOG PS, presence of ATRX and IDH1 mutation to be independent prognostic factors for both progression-free survival and overall survival.
Molecular Insights Into Di(2-Picolyl) Amine–Induced Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis in Human Kidney (HEK293) Cells
Authors: Satyo Lindelwa , Amoako Daniel G. , Somboro Anou M. , Sosibo Sphelele C. , Kumalo Hezekiel M. , Mhlongo Ndumiso N. , Khan Rene B.
Published: April 2020

Di(2-picolyl) amine (DPA) is a pyridine derivative known to chelate metal ions and thus has potential anticancer properties; however, its effect on normal cells remains unchartered necessitating further research. This study, therefore, investigated the mechanistic effects of DPA-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in the HEK293 cell line. Methods required that an half the maximum inhibition concentration (IC50) was derived using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Analyses aimed to assess oxidative stress, membrane damage, and DNA fragmentation by means of biochemical assays were performed. Luminometry analysis was carried out to understand the mechanism of apoptosis induction by determining the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and the activities of caspase-8, -9, and -3/7. Western blotting was used to ascertain the expression of apoptotic and stress-related proteins. An IC50 of 1,079 µM DPA was obtained. Antioxidant effect correlated with a minimum increase in reactive oxygen species induced lipid peroxidation. The increase in initiator caspase-8 and -9 and executioner caspase-3/7 activities by DPA-induced apoptosis albeit prompting a decline in the levels of ATP. Furthermore, DPA brought about the following consequences on HEK293 cells: markedly elevated tail lengths of the comets, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 cleavage, and apoptotic body formation observed in the late stages. The cytotoxic effects of DPA in HEK293 cells may be mediated by induction of apoptosis via the caspase-dependent mechanism.
MAGA: A Supervised Method to Detect Motifs From Annotated Groups in Alignments
Authors: Mier Pablo , Andrade-Navarro Miguel A
Published: April 2020

Multiple sequence alignments are usually phylogenetically driven. They are studied in the framework of evolution. But sometimes, it is interesting to study residue conservation at positions unconstrained by evolutionary rules. We present a supervised method to access a layer of information difficult to appreciate visually when many protein sequences are aligned. This new tool (MAGA; http://cbdm-01.zdv.uni-mainz.de/~munoz/maga/ ) locates positions in multiple sequence alignments differentially conserved in manually defined groups of sequences.
Discovering Selected Antibodies From Deep-Sequenced Phage-Display Antibody Library Using ATTILA
Authors: Maranhão Andréa Queiroz , Silva Heidi Muniz , da Silva Waldeyr Mendes Cordeiro , França Renato Kaylan Alves , De Leo Thais Canassa , Dias-Baruffi Marcelo , Burtet Rafael Trindade , Brigido Marcelo Macedo
Published: April 2020

Phage display is a powerful technique to select high-affinity antibodies for different purposes, including biopharmaceuticals. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) presented itself as a robust solution, making it possible to assess billions of sequences of the variable domains from selected sublibraries. Handling this process, a central difficulty is to find the selected clones. Here, we present the AutomaTed Tool For Immunoglobulin Analysis (ATTILA), a new tool to analyze and find the enriched variable domains throughout a biopanning experiment. The ATTILA is a workflow that combines publicly available tools and in-house programs and scripts to find the fold-change frequency of deeply sequenced amplicons generated from selected VH and VL domains. We analyzed the same human Fab library NGS data using ATTILA in 5 different experiments, as well as on 2 biopanning experiments regarding performance, accuracy, and output. These analyses proved to be suitable to assess library variability and to list the more enriched variable domains, as ATTILA provides a report with the amino acid sequence of each identified domain, along with its complementarity-determining regions (CDRs), germline classification, and fold change. Finally, the methods employed here demonstrated a suitable manner to combine amplicon generation and NGS data analysis to discover new monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).
Results of a Single Arm Pilot Study of a Mobile Messaging Intervention for Hookah Tobacco Cessation in Young Adults
Authors: Mays Darren , Phan Lilianna , Johnson Andrea C , Tercyak Kenneth P , Snow Kylie , Luta George , Rehberg Kathryn , Lipkus Isaac
Published: April 2020

Background:

Hookah tobacco use is common among young adults. Unlike cigarette smoking, there is limited evidence on mobile (ie, mHealth) interventions to promote cessation.

Objectives:

This pilot study tested the preliminary effects of mobile messaging for cessation in young adult hookah smokers.

Methods:

Young adults (N = 20) aged 18 to 30 years who smoke hookah at least monthly and have done so at least once in the past 30 days received a 6-week mHealth multimedia messaging (text and images) intervention. Message scheduling (2 days/week × 6 weeks) was based on the literature. Content was developed iteratively by the study team and focused on health harms and addictiveness of hookah. Content was individually tailored by baseline hookah use frequency, risk beliefs, and responses to interactive text messages assessing participants’ hookah tobacco use behavior and beliefs to maximize impact. Engagement was assessed during the intervention, and we examined effects on risk perceptions, risk beliefs, and risk appraisals, motivation to quit, and behavior change immediately post-intervention.

Results:

Participants responded to 11.5 (SD = 0.69) of 12 text message prompts on average, endorsed high message receptivity (M = 6.1, SD = 0.93, range = 1-7), and reported the messages were helpful (M = 8.5, SD = 1.5, range = 1-10). There were significant ( P < .05) increases in risk perceptions (d’s = 0.22-0.88), risk appraisals (d = 0.49), risk beliefs (d = 1.11), and motivation to quit (d = 0.97) post-intervention. Half of participants reported reducing frequency of hookah use (20%) or quitting completely (30%) by end of treatment.

Conclusions:

These pilot results provide preliminary support for an mHealth messaging intervention about risks of hookah tobacco for promoting cessation. Rigorously examining the efficacy of this promising intervention is warranted.
Prevalence and time trends of overweight, obesity and severe obesity in 447,925 Swedish adults, 1995–2017
Authors: Hemmingsson Erik , Ekblom Örjan , Kallings Lena V. , Andersson Gunnar , Wallin Peter , Söderling Jonas , Blom Victoria , Ekblom Björn , Ekblom-Bak Elin
Published: April 2020

Aims: The purpose of this research was to describe the current prevalence and historic trends in overweight, obesity and severe obesity in Sweden. Methods: Data on BMI, age, gender, education and geographic region were obtained in n=447,925 Swedish adults through a nationwide screening test (1995–2017). To account for sampling variations, we quantified prevalence estimates and time trends using standardized values (direct method) to all 18–74-year-old Swedes, using nationwide databases. Rates of overweight (BMI ⩾25 kg/m2), obesity (BMI ⩾30 kg/m2) and severe obesity (BMI ⩾35 kg/m2) were calculated across gender, age, education and geographic categories. Years were grouped into two-year sampling periods (except the first period where we used three years) for increased power. We used multivariable logistic regression to quantify independent associations between age, gender, education and region with obesity development and current prevalence rates. Results: In 2016/17 the unstandardized prevalence of overweight, obesity and severe obesity were 55.1%, 16.6% and 4.2%, respectively. Factors associated with a higher obesity prevalence were male gender, older age, lower education and residing in a rural region (all P<0.001). Between 1995 and 2017 the prevalence of severe obesity increased by 153%, compared to obesity (+86%) and overweight (+23%). While there were similar increases in obesity across gender and age groups, people with low education (vs high) and rural areas (vs urban) had a higher prevalence increase (both P<0.001). Conclusions: Rates of overweight, obesity and severe obesity have increased markedly in Swedish adults since 1995. Priority groups for prevention efforts include individuals with low education and those living in rural areas.
Book review: Carrillo, B., Hood, J. and Kadetz, P., editors. 2017: Handbook of Welfare in China. Handbooks of Research on Contemporary China
Authors: Leite Alexandre Cesar Cunha
Published: April 2020

Carrillo, B., Hood, J. and Kadetz, P., editors. 2017: Handbook of Welfare in China. Handbooks of Research on Contemporary China. Basingstoke and Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited. 443 pp. US$ 270,00 Hardback. ISBN: 9781783472734.
Exploring Goal Conflicts and How They Are Managed in a Biomedical Laboratory Using Rasmussen’s Model of Boundaries
Authors: Vijayan Viji , Smoker Anthony John
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Occupational health and safety management systems are widely used as a systematic approach to managing occupational health and safety. However, sometimes they are restrictive and underspecified to deal with dynamic workplace demands. Rasmussen used a model of boundaries to conceptualize this dynamic model of safety, where the space of possibilities lay within 3 boundaries and workers used various means to stay within the boundaries to remain both productive and safe at work.

Methods:

This study applied the Rasmussen model of boundaries to understand the factors that formed the boundaries, the gradients, and countergradients in a biomedical laboratory.

Results:

The most central goal was to be the first to publish, and this formed the boundary to scientific output failure; the boundary to unacceptable workload and boundary to functionally acceptable performance were the other 2 boundaries in line with the Rasmussen model. The workers had developed methods (mental risk assessment, teamwork, and experience and familiarity) of working, which ensured they remained productive and safe. This can be described as resilient performance, where resilience is not something that a system has but something it does to adjust their performance when faced with expected or unexpected changes.

Discussion and Conclusion:

A customized portfolio of rule-based non negotiable instructions and a risk assessment–based approach would be best suited for a biomedical laboratory. The workers have learned resilient performance on their own and unknowingly are already practicing this. It is now time to formally incorporate such practices into the safety systems of biomedical laboratories.
A Novel Technique for the Management of Massive Hemoptysis: The Customized Endobronchial Silicone Blocker
Authors: Mehta Ravindra M. , Godara Rakesh , Bhat Rajani Surendar , Loknath Chakravarthi , Singla Abhinav
Published: April 2020

Objective

Massive hemoptysis (MH) has a high mortality rate. Therapeutic options include bronchoscopy for endobronchial lesions, bronchial artery embolization (BAE), and emergency surgery. Scant options exist for patients who are not candidates for these modalities. Culprit bronchial segment occlusion is an option to prevent “spillover flooding → hypoxia.” Applying this concept, we describe a case series of MH control using a novel bronchoscopically inserted customized endobronchial silicone blocker (CESB). We analyzed the safety and efficacy of CESBs in a select subset of patients with MH.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were patients with MH who were unstable for surgery/BAE, failed BAE, or relatively contraindicated/refused BAE. CESBs were manufactured on-site by modifying silicone stents, inserted using rigid bronchoscopy and reinforced with glue. The CESB was removed after 6 weeks when possible. A successful outcome was defined as immediate bleeding control with no recurrence after removal.

Results

Over 4.5 years, 13 episodes of MH in 12 patients meeting the criteria specified earlier were treated with CESBs. Seven of 12 patients had tuberculosis, 4 active and 3 inactive. One patient had mucormycosis, 1 post-lobectomy, 1 endobronchial renal cell carcinoma, 1 fibrosing mediastinitis, and 1 patient had metastatic laryngeal Ca. Eight of 12 patients were taken for primary-CESB placement. Four of 12 patients were sent for BAE, which was unsuccessful, and rescue-CESB was done for definitive management. The success rate, as defined earlier, was 92.3%, with no deaths from MH.

Conclusions

Innovative bronchoscopically inserted CESBs are an effective strategy in MH when patients are unstable or fail conventional management.
Three-Dimensional Imaging Improves Accuracy in Clip Sizing During Thoracoscopic Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion
Authors: Ali Hassan Syed M. , Gottschalk Byron H. , Enriquez Andres , Bisleri Gianluigi
Published: April 2020

The AtriClip is an epicardially applied occlusion device for the left atrial appendage. Accurate sizing and placement of the device is essential to its success. We describe the use of 3-dimensional computed tomography imaging to aid in accurate sizing of the AtriClip device during thoracoscopic surgical ablation. This technique reduces the risk of improper sizing of the device and thus mitigates the risk of malpositioning and potential damage or compression to surrounding structures such as the circumflex coronary artery.
Left Anterior Mini-Incision for Pulmonary Valve Replacement Following Tetralogy of Fallot Repair
Authors: Nellis Joseph R. , Vekstein Andrew M. , Meza James M. , Andersen Nicholas D. , Haney John C. , Turek Joseph W.
Published: April 2020

Pulmonary insufficiency is a known complication following Tetralogy of Fallot repair. With over 90% of patients now surviving to adulthood, surgeons are once again faced with the question of when, and more importantly, how to reintervene. We developed a novel approach to pulmonary valve replacement in this population through a 5-cm left anterior mini-incision. The incision is optimized for exposing and operating on the right ventricular outflow tract and the main pulmonary artery in patients with a history of median sternotomy. Early outcomes are reassuring, and we believe our approach is a safe and reliable alternative to median sternotomy within this patient population, with the ability to quickly convert intraoperatively when needed.
Hecatonquiros: Open-source hardware for aerial manipulation applications
Authors: Perez-Jimenez M , Ramon-Soria P , Arrue BC , Ollero A
Published: April 2020

This article presents Hecatonquiros, a complete open-source ecosystem for low cost and lightweight robotic manipulators. It has been released to focus on aerial manipulation applications but can be used in any other robotic application that requires the use of manipulators. The proposed framework provides the control system, a simulation environment, and a set of back ends to allow reusing the algorithms with different hardware setups. Additionally, it is released with a set of tools to ease its usage and various examples to teach the users. Several manipulators models and end-effectors are available for the users to adapt to their different requirements. All the hardware is designed to be three-dimensional printed and its components are low cost and available in common robotic stores, so anyone can reproduce and use them. The software is available in the GitHub repository https://github.com/Bardo91/hecatonquiros .
A generic synchronous dataflow architecture to rapidly prototype and deploy robot controllers
Authors: Ferigo Diego , Traversaro Silvio , Romano Francesco , Pucci Daniele
Published: April 2020

The article presents a software architecture to optimize the process of prototyping and deploying robot controllers that are synthesized using model-based design methodologies. The architecture is composed of a framework and a pipeline. Therefore, the contribution of the article is twofold. First, we introduce an open-source actor-oriented framework that abstracts the common robotic uses of middlewares, optimizers, and simulators. Using this framework, we then present a pipeline that implements the model-based design methodology. The components of the proposed framework are generic, and they can be interfaced with any tool supporting model-based design. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach describing the application of the resulting synchronous dataflow architecture to the design of a balancing controller for the YARP-based humanoid robot iCub. This example exploits the interfacing with Simulink® and Simulink® Coder™.
Subterminal key pinch dynamometry: a new method to quantify strength deficit in ulnar nerve paralysis
Authors: Bertelli Jayme Augusto
Published: April 2020

Precise pre- and postoperative assessments are fundamental to recording the quality of recovery after ulnar nerve repair. Because of its imprecision, manual muscle testing is being replaced by dynamometry to measure grasping and key-pinch strengths. However, both grasping and key pinch are dependent not only on the ulnar nerve but also the median and radial nerves. We propose to measure strength using a new sort of pinch, called the ‘subterminal key pinch’. Strength was measured using a commercially available pinch meter. Patients applied pressure on the dynamometer with the interphalangeal joint of the thumb, maintaining the joint in extension to avoid enhancement of strength by the flexor pollicis longus. We examined 17 patients before ulnar nerve repair. Preoperatively, grasping strength was 46% of normal, while key pinch was 58%, pinch-to-zoom strength was 26% and subterminal key pinch only 7%. Subterminal key pinch was the most affected pinch with a strength deficit of over 90%.

Level of evidence: IV
Basal cell carcinoma stroma as a mimicker of lymphatic invasion: A case report
Authors: Caruana Marco , Morand Meggie , Belisle Annie , Nantel-Battista Mélissa
Published: April 2020

Basal cell carcinoma metastases are rare. We report a case of an 83 year-old male with recurrent cutaneous infiltrative basal cell carcinoma on the right vertex with tumor aggregates of infiltrative basal cell carcinoma in the lymphatic vessels of the superficial dermis strongly suspected on pathology slide evaluation during Mohs micrographic surgery. D2-40 immunohistochemical stain allows the detection of lymphatic invasion by highlighting endothelial cells. Further histologic review and D2-40 stains performed on the paraffin-embedded sections did not reveal an endothelial cell lining in favor of lymphatic invasion. What was identified as lymphatic invasion was the result of a peculiar basal cell carcinoma stroma. Correct identification of basal cell carcinoma stroma as a mimicker of lymphatic invasion would prevent potentially invasive investigation as well as associated costs. This is of great importance as the prognostic and therapeutic implications can be of significant value for the patient.
The Face of Mental Health: Kevin Love and Hegemonic Masculinity in the NBA
Authors: Lavelle Katherine L.
Published: April 2020

While public discussion about mental illness has become increasingly common in the United States, previous research has found that having a mental illness diagnosis is assumed to be incompatible with elite athletic success. As explored in hegemonic masculinity scholarship, to be successful, professional male athletes attempt to physically dominate opponents. In 2018, National Basketball Association (NBA) star Kevin Love disclosed having a panic attack during a game as well as living with depression and anxiety. While Love was not the only NBA player to publicly come forward to discuss their mental health experiences, Love is a successful White player in a league where 73.9% of players self-identify as Black or African American. His social location connects his public health discussion to existing scholarship on whiteness, hegemonic masculinity, and mental illness. Love was praised for his willingness to speak about his personal experiences and provide support for others. However, through a critical discourse analysis of sports media coverage of Love’s disclosure and subsequent mental health advocacy, this study reveals that his public discussion was constructed in terms of his identity as a White athlete and constrained by expectations of hegemonic masculinity.
Free-Hand Cervical Pedicle Screw Placement by Using Para-articular Minilaminotomy: Its Feasibility and Novice Neurosurgeons’ Experience
Authors: Park Jong-Hwa , Lee Jong Young , Lee Byoung Hun , Jeon Hong Jun , Park Seung-Woo
Published: April 2020

Study Design.:

Retrospective study.

Objective.:

Cervical pedicle screw (CPS) placement is technically demanding because of the great variation in pedicle size, dimension, and angulations between cervical levels and patients and the lack of anatomical landmarks. This retrospective study was conducted to analyze novice neurosurgeons’ experience of CPS placement by using the technique with direct exposure of pedicle via para-articular minilaminotomy.

Methods.:

We retrospectively reviewed 78 CPSs in 22 consecutive patients performed by 2 surgeons. All pedicle screws were inserted under the direct visualization of the pedicle by using para-articular minilaminotomy without any fluoroscopic guidance. We analyzed the direction and grade of pedicle perforation on the postoperative computed tomography scan. The degree of perforation was classified as grade 0 to 3. Grades 0 and 1 were classified as the correct position and the others, as the incorrect position.

Results.:

In total, the correct position (grade 0 and 1) was found in 72 (92.3%) screws and the incorrect position (grade 2 and 3) in 6 (7.7%). Among the 16 pedicle perforations (grade 1, 2, and 3 perforations), the directions were lateral in 15 (93.8%) and superior in 1 (6.2%). There were no neurovascular complications related to CPS insertion.

Conclusion.:

Free-hand CPS placement by using para-articular minilaminotomy seems to be feasible and reproducible.
Efficacy of Stem Cell Therapy for Tendon Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: van den Boom Noortje Anna Clasina , Winters Marinus , Haisma Hidde Jacobs , Moen Maarten Hendrik
Published: April 2020

Background:

Stem cell therapy is an emerging treatment for tendon disorders.

Purpose:

To systematically review the efficacy of stem cell therapy for patients with tendon disorders.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, PEDro, and SPORTDiscus; trial registers; and gray literature were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs, cohort studies, and case series with 5 or more cases. Studies investigating any type of stem cell therapy for patients with tendon disorders were eligible if they included patient-reported outcome measures or assessed tendon healing. Risk of bias was assessed through use of the Cochrane risk of bias tools.

Results:

This review included 8 trials (289 patients). All trials had moderate to high risk of bias (level 3 or 4 evidence). In Achilles tendon disorders, 1 trial found that allogenic-derived stem cells led to a faster recovery compared with platelet-rich plasma. Another study found no retears after bone marrow–derived stem cell therapy was used in addition to surgical treatment. There were 4 trials that studied the efficacy of bone marrow–derived stem cell therapy for rotator cuff tears. The controlled trials reported superior patient-reported outcomes and better tendon healing. A further 2 case series found that stem cell therapy improved patient-reported outcomes in patients with patellar tendinopathy and elbow tendinopathy.

Conclusion:

Level 3 evidence is available to support the efficacy of stem cell therapy for tendon disorders. The findings of available studies are at considerable risk of bias, and evidence-based recommendations for the use of stem cell therapy for tendon disorders in clinical practice cannot be made at this time. Stem cell injections should not be used in clinical practice given the lack of knowledge about potentially serious adverse effects.
Tendon Morphology and Mechanical Properties Are Associated With the Recovery of Symptoms and Function in Patients With Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Corrigan Patrick , Cortes Daniel H. , Pohlig Ryan T. , Grävare Silbernagel Karin
Published: April 2020

Background:

Achilles tendinopathy is a debilitating overuse injury characterized by pain, altered Achilles tendon structure, and impaired functional performance. Evaluating tendon structure as part of the physical examination may help establish a well-defined prognosis. However, the usefulness of measuring tendon structure for developing a prognosis has been questioned since structural abnormalities can exist without symptoms.

Purpose:

To determine whether initial measures of tendon morphology and mechanical properties were associated with patient-reported symptoms and calf muscle endurance at baseline, 6-month follow-up, and 1-year follow-up by prospectively following a cohort of individuals with Achilles tendinopathy.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 59 participants with midportion or insertional Achilles tendinopathy completed an initial assessment and follow-up assessments at 6 months and 1 year. At the initial assessment, patient-reported symptoms, calf muscle endurance, and Achilles tendon thickening were evaluated, and Achilles tendon mechanical properties were estimated. At the 6-month and 1-year follow-up assessments, patient-reported symptoms and calf muscle endurance were reevaluated.

Results:

Greater Achilles tendon thickening at the initial assessment was consistently associated with worse patient-reported symptoms and calf muscle endurance at each assessment. Changes in symptoms over the year were moderated by the initial shear modulus of the tendon, with a lower shear modulus associated with less improvement in symptoms. Lower viscosity at the initial assessment was also associated with worse calf muscle endurance at each assessment.

Conclusion:

Measures of tendon morphology and mechanical properties appear to be associated with patient-reported symptoms and calf muscle function for patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
EVALUATION OF SERUM RELAXIN CONCENTRATIONS AND KNEE VALGUS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: Gilmer Gabrielle G. , Roberts Michael D. , Oliver Gretchen
Published: April 2020

Background:

Athletes who sustain an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury are more likely to develop adverse health outcomes, such as knee osteoarthritis, knee pain, and obesity. It is assumed that the long-term consequences of ACL reconstruction are caused by the reconstruction itself. Studies have observed that relaxin, a peptide hormone similar in structure to insulin, interferes with the structural integrity of the ACL and elicits long term effects on bone, joint, muscle, and tendon health. Given the known effects of relaxin, it is reasonable to wonder if relaxin contributes to the development of these long-term health outcomes, independently of the ACL injury.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate knee valgus and serum relaxin concentrations (SRC) in athletes who have and have not sustained an ACL injury. It was hypothesized that athletes who previously tore their ACL would have higher SRC and more knee valgus than those who were injury free.

Methods:

Twenty-two female athletes participated. Participants were assigned to one of two groups: ACL injury (6.0 ± 3.3 years after surgery, N = 4) and injury free (N = 18). Kinematic data were collected at 100 Hz using The MotionMonitor. Participants performed a single leg squat (SLS), single leg crossover dropdown (SCD), and drop vertical jump (DVJ) at two different time points in their menstrual period: pre-ovulatory phase and mid-luteal phase. Blood samples were collected when SRC are measurable (mid-luteal phase), and SRC were determined using a Quantikine Human Relaxin-2 Immunoassay.

Results:

Independent samples t-tests revealed significant differences between those who tore their ACL and those who were injury free in SRC and knee valgus during the SLS in the mid luteal phase, DVJ in both phases, and SCD in both phases. Specifically, the participants who tore their ACL had significantly higher SRC and more knee valgus than those who did not tear their ACL.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that a previous ACL injury could place one at an increased risk of re-tear and other adverse effects on their joints, muscles, and tendons. Thus, further investigating hormonal risk factors during long term monitoring of recovery is needed.
THE INCIDENCE OF CONCUSSION AND SYMPTOM NON-REPORTING AMONG PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S ICE HOCKEY PLAYERS
Authors: Whitney Darryl , Gonzalez-Lomas Guillem , Carter Cordelia W.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Female hockey players have rates of sports-related concussion that are similar to male hockey players at various levels of play, despite differences in the rules that do not allow for body checking in the women’s game. One proposed hypothesis is that females are more likely than their male counterparts to report concussion symptoms to a coach or medical professional. At the elite level, there are limited data regarding concussion rates and concussion symptom reporting.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of concussion and concussion symptom reporting in professional women’s ice hockey players.

Methods:

An anonymous survey was given to players of two National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) teams at the time of their 2018-2019 end-of-season physicals. Players reported on the number of concussions in their career diagnosed by a physician, the number of times they have had concussion symptoms, how many times they continued playing after experiencing concussion symptoms, how many times they never told a medical professional or coach after having symptoms, and how many times they eventually disclosed their symptoms.

Results:

Fifty-four players anonymously completed the survey. Thirty-one(57%) of respondents reported at least one concussion diagnosed during their playing career, with 16(30%) reporting 2 or more diagnosed concussions. Thirty-six(67%) players reported experiencing concussion symptoms at least once, with 26(48%) reporting 2 or more occurrences of such symptoms. Of these players, 68% reported that they continued playing at least once after experiencing concussion symptoms. 36% of those players reported that they never told anyone about these symptoms on at least one occasion. Forty-four(81%) players either agreed or strongly agreed with the statement “I’m more likely to report concussion symptoms knowing what I know now.”

Conclusion:

There is a high incidence of sport related concussions in women’s professional ice hockey players as well as an alarming rate of symptom non-reporting. More than half of players experience at least one concussion during their career, with more than two-thirds of these continuing to play despite having concussion-related symptoms and more than one-third of these never reporting the concussion symptoms at all. Additional research is needed to determine the reasons for the high rates of concussion in women’s ice hockey players despite the no-checking policy; the motivation for not disclosing concussion symptoms when they occur; and the effects that concussion education has had on changing symptom reporting behaviors for ice hockey players at the elite level.