bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptual evaluation of headphone auralization of rooms captured with spherical microphone arrays with respect to spaciousness and timbre
Authors: Ahrens Jens , Andersson Carl
Published: April 2019

A listening experiment is presented in which subjects rated the perceived differences in terms of spaciousness and timbre between a headphone-based headtracked dummy head auralization of a sound source in different rooms and a headphone-based headtracked auralization of a spherical microphone array recording of the same scenario. The underlying auralizations were based on measured impulse responses to assure equal conditions. Rigid-sphere arrays with different amounts of microphones ranging from 50 to up to 1202 were emulated through sequential measurements, and spherical harmonics orders of up to 12 were tested. The results show that the array auralizations are partially indistinguishable from the direct dummy head auralization at a spherical harmonics order of 8 or higher if the virtual sound source is located at a lateral position. No significant reduction of the perceived differences with increasing order is observed for frontal virtual sound sources. In this case, small differences with respect to both spaciousness and timbre persist. The evaluation of lowpass-filtered stimuli shows that the perceived differences occur exclusively at higher frequencies and can therefore be attributed to spatial aliasing. The room had only a minor effect on the results.
Enhanced resonance of sparse arrays of Helmholtz resonators—Application to perfect absorption
Authors: Maurel A. , Mercier J.-F. , Pham K. , Marigo J.-J. , Ourir A.
Published: April 2019

The influence of the spacing on the resonance of a periodic arrangement of Helmholtz resonators is inspected. An effective problem is used which accurately captures the properties of the resonant array within a large range of frequencies, and whose simplified version leaves an impedance condition. It is shown that the strength of the resonance is enhanced when the array becomes sparser. This degree of freedom on the radiative damping is of particular interest since it does not affect the resonance frequency nor the damping due to losses within each resonator; in addition, it does not affect the total thickness of the array. It is shown that it can be used for the design of a perfect absorbing wall.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Room Acoustic Modeling and Auralization
Authors: Savioja Lauri , Xiang Ning
Published: April 2019

This Special Issue on Room Acoustic Modeling and Auralization contains nineteen research papers. A majority of the papers focus on various room acoustic simulation techniques, while the remaining ones concentrate on auralization of either simulation or measurement results. Using room acoustic simulation, the last paper in this issue presents a case study of the historic venue, Palais du Trocadero in Paris, France.
Relation of second formant trajectories to tongue kinematics
Authors: Thompson Austin , Kim Yunjung
Published: April 2019

In this study, the relationship between the acoustic and articulatory kinematic domains of speech was examined among nine neurologically healthy female speakers using two derived relationships between tongue kinematics and F2 measurements: (1) second formant frequency (F2) extent to lingual displacement and (2) F2 slope to lingual speed. Additionally, the relationships between these paired parameters were examined within conversational, more clear, and less clear speaking modes. In general, the findings of the study support a strong correlation for both sets of paired parameters. In addition, the data showed significant changes in articulatory behaviors across speaking modes including the magnitude of tongue motion, but not in the speed-related measures.
Prediction of speech intelligibility using pseudo-binaural room impulse responses
Authors: Kokabi Omid , Brinkmann Fabian , Weinzierl Stefan
Published: April 2019

Head orientation (HO) affects better-ear-listening and spatial-release-from-masking, which are two key aspects in binaural speech intelligibility. To incorporate HO in speech intelligibility prediction, binaural room impulse responses (BRIRs) for every HO of interest could be used. Due to the limited spectral bandwidth of speech, however, approximate representations might be sufficient, which can be measured more quickly. A comparison was done between pseudo-BRIRs generated with a motion tracked binaural microphone array and a first order Ambisonics microphone using the spatial decomposition method (SDM). The accuracy of the Ambisonics/SDM approach was comparable to that of real BRIRs, indicating its suitability for speech intelligibility prediction.
Diet Quality Profile of Track-and-Field Paralympic Athletes
Authors: Joaquim Daniel P. , Juzwiak Claudia R. , Winckler Ciro
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to assess the diet quality of Brazilian Paralympic track-and-field team sprinters and its variation between days. All sprinters (n = 28) were invited, and 20 (13 men and seven women) accepted the invitation consisting of 13 athletes with visual impairment, four with cerebral palsy, and three with limb deficiency. The dietary intake was recorded by photographic register on four consecutive days, and diet quality was determined using a revised version of the Healthy Eating Index for the Brazilian population. Physical activity was assessed using an accelerometer, and metabolic unit information was used to classify exercise intensity. Variance Analysis Model and Bonferroni multiple comparisons were used to assess relationships between variables. The correlations between variables used Pearson linear correlation coefficient. The results show that revised version of the Healthy Eating Index score was classified as “needs to be modified” for all athletes. The maximum score for the components “Whole fruits,” “Total vegetables,” and “Dark green and orange vegetables and legumes” was achieved by 23.1% and 14.3%, 7.7% and 14.3%, and 46.2% and 57.8% of male and female athletes, respectively. Only 38.5% of the male athletes achieved the maximum score for the “Total cereal” component. Female athletes achieved higher scores than male athletes for the “Milk and dairy products” component (p = .03). Intake of whole grain cereals, dairy products, vegetables, and whole fruits needs modifications to improve adequate intake of vitamins and antioxidants, highlighting the need of continuous actions of nutrition education for this population.
Sagittal Spinal Morphotype Assessment in Dressage and Show Jumping Riders
Authors: Ginés-Díaz Angélica , Martínez-Romero María Teresa , Cejudo Antonio , Aparicio-Sarmiento Alba , Sainz de Baranda Pilar
Published: April 2019

Context:Previous research has analyzed how the sport influences sagittal spinal curvatures in young athletes and has found that spinal curves may be modified as a consequence of repeated movement patterns and postures of each discipline.Objective:To analyze sagittal spinal alignment by equestrian discipline and its relation to training load, and to describe “sagittal integrative morphotype” in young riders.Design:Observational descriptive study.Setting:Training room.Participants:A total of 23 riders (aged 9–17 y)—13 dressage riders (3 males and 10 females) and 10 show jumping riders (5 males and 5 females)—participated voluntarily.Main Outcome Measures:Mann–WhitneyUtest was applied to determine differences between riders’ characteristics (gender, discipline, and training load) and spine variables.Results:According to normality ranges for spinal curves, females showed an increase for lumbar curvature in standing position. It was found that show jumping riders manifested an increment in thoracic and lumbar curves while standing and an increase in the thoracic curvature in slump sitting. Statistically significant differences were found when lumbar curvature, “sit and reach” distance, and lumbo-horizontal angle in flexion were analyzed by gender in “sit and reach” test. No statistical significant differences were found when spinal curves in each position were analyzed depending on the training load. With regard to “sagittal integrative morphotype,” all riders presented a hyperkyphotic dorsal morphotype no matter what their discipline. As for the lumbar curve, dressage and show jumping riders presented a functional hyperkyphotic morphotype.Conclusions:It is important to note that many riders presented a sagittal imbalance for the thoracic and lumbar curves. Therefore, as the sagittal spinal misalignments persist and worsen over time, exercise programs to prevent or rehabilitate these imbalances in young riders will be needed. The “sagittal integrative morphotype” assessment is an essential tool in order to identify the spinal misalignment.
Are Hip Physical Examination Findings Predictive of Future Lower-Body Injury Rates in Elite Adolescent Female Soccer Athletes at Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up?
Authors: Cheng Abby L. , Merlo John A. , Hunt Devyani , Yemm Ted , Brophy Robert H. , Prather Heidi
Published: April 2019

Context: Although elite adolescent female soccer athletes have unique injury risk factors and management challenges, limited epidemiological data exist for this population. Objective: To describe lower-body injury patterns and to determine whether a screening hip physical examination is predictive of future injuries in elite adolescent female soccer athletes. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting: One US premier soccer club. Participants: One hundred seventy-seven female soccer athletes aged 10–18 years (mean [SD] 14.6 [1.8] y) completed a demographic questionnaire and screening hip physical examination that included range of motion and provocative tests. Interventions: At least 5 years after baseline screening, athletes completed an electronic follow-up injury survey. Injury was defined as pain that interfered with sporting activity. Main Outcome Measures: In addition to descriptive analyses of athletes’ injury profiles, associations between players’ baseline demographics and subsequent injury profiles were evaluated using chi-square tests, and potential predictors of injury based on players’ baseline hip examinations were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Ninety-four of 177 athletes (53%) were contacted for follow-up, and 88/94 (93.6%) completed the survey. With mean follow-up of 91.9 (9.3) months (range 66–108 mo), 42/88 (47.7%) reported sustaining a new lower-body injury. The low back was the most common injury region (16/42, 38.1%). Almost half of all injured athletes (20/42, 47.6%) sustained overuse injuries, and 16/42 (38.1%) had an incomplete recovery. Higher body mass index and reaching menarche were associated with sustaining an injury (P = .03 and .04, respectively). Athletes’ baseline hip examinations were not predictive of their subsequent rate of lower-body, lumbopelvic, overuse, or incomplete recovery injury (all P > .05). Conclusions: Lower-body injuries were common in elite adolescent female soccer athletes, with over one third of injured athletes reporting permanent negative impact of the injury on their playing ability. Baseline hip physical examinations were not associated with future injury rate.
Acute Effect of Ankle Kinesio and Athletic Taping on Ankle Range of Motion During Various Agility Tests in Athletes With Chronic Ankle Sprain
Authors: Sarvestan Javad , Svoboda Zdeněk
Published: April 2019

Background: Taping is a preventive measure commonly used for protecting and strengthening the ankle joint to prevent further musculoskeletal damage. Ankle taping prevents excessive range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint and allows the improvement of proprioception to adjust balance. Appropriate ankle stability is essential for various activities, such as sprinting, turning, cutting, and jumping, which are associated with agility. Aim: To assess the acute effect of Kinesio taping and athletic taping on the ankle ROM of athletes with chronic ankle sprain during various agility tests that include sprinting, turning, and cutting actions. Methods: Twenty-five physically active volunteers with chronic ankle sprain performed the Illinois, 5–0–5, 10-m shuttle, hexagon, compass drill, and T agility tests in 3 ankle conditions (nontaped, Kinesio taped, and athletic taped), in random order. Ankle ROM was recorded using the Vicon motion capture system. Results: In comparison with the nontaped ankle condition, in the ankle Kinesio-taping condition, the results showed a significant increase of ankle ROM in the sprinting part of the Illinois, 5–0–5, 10-m shuttle, and T agility tests (P ≤ .01), whereas in the ankle athletic-taping condition, no significant difference was found in ankle ROM during all agility tests. Conclusion: In sports that need linear sprinting, Kinesio taping seems to be a suitable intervention for the improvement of sports performance as it provides increased ankle ROM.
Relationship between Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Multilocus Sequence Type of Mycoplasma bovis Isolates and Development of a Method for Rapid Detection of Point Mutations Involved in Decreased Susceptibility to Macrolides, Lincosamides, Tetracyclines, and Spectinomycin
Authors: Hata Eiji , Harada Takehiro , Itoh Megumi
Published: April 2019

Mycoplasma bovis
is the main causal species of bovine mycoplasmal disease and leads to significant economic losses because of its severe symptoms, strong infectivity, and refractoriness. As for mastitis, culling cows with intramammary infections is a general countermeasure to prevent spreading. The conventional antimicrobial susceptibility test for mycoplasma is time-consuming and troublesome, but no quick and easy method for grasping the antimicrobial susceptibility of the causal strain exists at present. Treatment without antimicrobial susceptibility information may be one reason why
M. bovis
infection is refractory. Detecting a mutation involved in decreased susceptibility to antimicrobial agents of the causal strain makes it possible to easily select suitable antimicrobials for treatment, and this technique will help improve the cure rate and prevent the overuse of ineffective antimicrobial agents. In this study, we developed a technique to quickly and easily assess antimicrobial susceptibility based on the genetic characteristics of
M. bovis
strains in Japan.
Guanabenz Reverses a Key Behavioral Change Caused by Latent Toxoplasmosis in Mice by Reducing Neuroinflammation
Authors: Martynowicz Jennifer , Augusto Leonardo , Wek Ronald C. , Boehm Stephen L. , Sullivan William J.
Published: April 2019

Toxoplasma gondii
is a common parasite of animals, including up to one-third of humans. The single-celled parasite persists within hosts for the duration of their life as tissue cysts, giving rise to chronic infection. Latent toxoplasmosis is correlated with neurological dysfunction in humans and results in dramatic behavioral changes in rodents. When infected, mice and rats adapt behaviors that make them more likely to be devoured by cats, the only host that supports the sexual stage of the parasite. In this study, we establish a new mouse model of tissue cyst depletion using a drug called guanabenz and show that it is possible to reverse a key behavior change back to normal in infected animals. We also show that the mechanism appears to have nothing to do with parasite cyst burden but rather the degree of neuroinflammation produced by chronic infection.
Haemodynamic effects of premedication for neonatal intubation: an observational study
Authors: Truong Linda , Kim Jae H , Katheria Anup C , Finer Neil N , Marc-Aurele Krishelle
Published: April 2019

Objective

To examine changes in blood pressure (BP), cardiac output (CO) and cerebral regional oxygen saturation (rScO2) with administration of premedication for neonatal intubation.

Design

Pilot, prospective, observational study. Oxygen saturation, heart rate, CO, rScO2 and BP data were collected. Monitoring began 5 min prior to premedication and continued until spontaneous movement.

Setting

Single-centre, level 3 neonatal intensive care unit

Patients

35 infants, all gestational ages. 81 eligible infants: 66 consented, 15 refused.

Interventions

Intravenous atropine, fentanyl or morphine, ±cisatracurium

Main outcome measures

BP, CO, rScO2

Results

n=37 intubations. Mean gestational age and median birth weight were 31 4/7 weeks and 1511 g. After premedication, 10 episodes resulted in a BP increase from baseline and 27 in a BP decrease. Of those whose BP decreased, 17 had <20% decrease and 10 had ≥20% decrease. Those with <20% BP decrease took an average of 2.5 min to return to baseline while those with a ≥20% BP decline took an average of 15.2 min. Three did not return to baseline by 35 min. Following intubation, further declines in BP (21%–51%) were observed in eight additional cases. One infant required a bolus for persistently low BPs. CO and rScO2 changes were statistically similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

About 30% of infants dropped their BP by ≥20% after premedication for elective intubation. These BP changes were not associated with any significant change in rScO2 or CO. More data are needed to better characterise the immediate haemodynamic changes and clinical outcomes associated with premedication.
Schistosomiasis and associated iron-deficiency anaemia presenting decades after immigration from sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Leir Sarah Anne , Foot Oliver , Jeyaratnam Dakshika , Whyte Martin Brunel
Published: April 2019

Chronic schistosomiasis and its intestinal manifestations can lead to anaemia. However, schistosomiasis resulting in anaemia is rare in the UK. This report aims to raise awareness of schistosomiasis in immigrants to the UK and prevent missed diagnosis.
Detection of a new melanoma in a patient treated with fingolimod
Authors: Michiels Yves , Bugnon Olivier , Michiels Jean-François , Mazellier Sophie
Published: April 2019

In addition to the TRANSFORMS, FREEDOMS, INFORMS studies, very few publications have identified new cases of skin cancer in patients treated with fingolimod. Here, we present the case of a 52-year-old Caucasian patient with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis for 19 years, with a phototype II with blue eyes, light brown hair, no personal or family history of melanoma and a low number of naevi (<10). She did not experience intense sun exposure in childhood as well as severe sunburn and did not practise sessions in ultraviolet cabins. This case is distinguished from other published cases, usually superficial spreading malignant melanoma by its unclassifiable histological character. The occurrence of skin cancers in patients with multiple sclerosis remains exceptional, but new cases have recently emerged requiring the strengthening of dermatological follow-up of such patients.
Isolated cortical venous thrombosis after fetal demise
Authors: Al-Jundi Mohammad , Al-Shbool Ghassan , Muhailan Mohamad , Aljundi Moutasem , Woods Christian J
Published: April 2019

Isolated cortical venous thrombosis (ICVT) occurring in the absence of dural venous thrombosis, constitutes about 2%–5% of all cerebral venous thrombosis. Its vague, non-specific presentation makes it a difficult and challenging diagnosis that needs an extensive workup especially in young patients. Outcome and prognosis depend mainly on early diagnosis and treatment. Here we discuss the clinical presentation, diagnosis and the treatment of a young woman diagnosed with ICVT with acute ischaemic venous stroke, in the setting of eclampsia and family history of coagulation disease.
Case of retroperitoneal necrotising fasciitis: a rare and deadly spread
Authors: Ikram Saad , Satyapal Deepak , Kaur Geeta , Dabra Ajay
Published: April 2019

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a potentially lethal spread of infection that is uncommonly seen within the province of surgery. Seen mostly in the extremities and the perineal regions, it has been reported rarely to involve the retroperitoneal space and presents with a spectrum of symptoms and signs as such. Literature supports classification of NF based on the microbes involved. Irrespective of the aetiology and the causative organism, NF remains a serious surgical emergency with high morbidity and mortality not only associated with the disease process itself, but also with the extensive surgical debridement it requires in its management along with antimicrobial administration. We present a case of such an infection found in the retroperitoneal space secondary to a perineal infection forming a rare presentation of this deadly process, and how it was successfully managed secondary to timely surgical intervention.
Not ’just' a foreign body in the ear canal
Authors: Woodley Niall , Mohd Slim Mohd Afiq , Tikka Theofano , Locke Richard Robert
Published: April 2019

Foreign bodies are commonly seen by the Ear, Nose and Throat emergency team with cotton wool being the most common aural foreign body seen in the adult population. Most complications secondary to aural foreign bodies described in the literature are minor and rarely require any surgical intervention. Here, we present two cases with impacted cotton wool as aural foreign bodies which resulted in suppurative labyrinthitis and osteomyelitis causing profound sensorineural hearing. These cases highlight the importance of considering aural foreign bodies in the differential diagnosis in those presenting with unilateral symptoms as significant complications, although rare, can occur, particularly in those with delayed diagnosis.
British Society of Gastroenterology: diagnosis and management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Bond Ashley , Smith Philip J
Published: April 2019

New guidelines have been produced through collaborative work between the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland, the British Society of Interventional Radiology, the Royal College of Radiologists, National Health Service Blood and Transplants and patient representatives. This is the first UK national guidance for lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). The focus is the in-hospital management of adult patients presenting with acute LGIB. LGIB refers to patients presenting with bright or dark red blood per rectum, clots per rectum or blood mixed with stool. We provide a commentary and overview of the key features, with a particular focus on risk assessment, management, investigations, and radiological and endoscopic intervention.
Bioethics of military performance enhancement
Authors: Mehlman Maxwell
Published: April 2019

Biological interventions to improve performance, such as amphetamines, have a long history of military use, and in the future may include more advanced biotechnologies. This article discusses the ethics of using biomedical enhancements in the military. The article begins by describing the distinction between biomedical enhancements and interventions intended to prevent, treat or mitigate disease. It then sets forth three principles to guide the ethical use of bioenhancements—proportionality, paternalism and fairness. The article applies these principles to concerns raised by military bioenhancement: safety, fairness in access to military reward, carryover effects to civilian life, whether service members can be ordered to use bioenhancements and when they may be permitted to do so voluntarily.
Fatal pulmonary thromboembolism in a two‐year‐old dog receiving long‐term corticosteroid therapy
Authors: Dorrestein Elize , Peda Andrea , Thrall Mary Anna , Illanes Oscar
Published: April 2019

A two‐year‐old female dog unexpectedly collapsed and was presented to Ross University Veterinary Clinic. On arrival, it appeared normal and was kept overnight for monitoring and further diagnostic assessment. In the early morning the dog collapsed again, arrested and died. The dog had a long‐term history of putative immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia and relapsing allergic dermatitis and was being treated with prednisone. On postmortem examination, a large thrombus almost completely obliterated the lumen of the pulmonary trunk and extended into the pulmonary arteries. Chronic corticosteroid treatment, even at low doses, can have severe detrimental consequences that may not be clinically noticeable. Pulmonary thromboembolism is a rare but known consequence of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs, but acute fatal cardiorespiratory failure has not been previously described in iatrogenic Cushing’s. Clinicians should be aware of this and other potentially adverse effects of prednisone therapy and use caution when prescribing corticosteroids.
Physical literacy improves with the Run Jump Throw Wheel program among students in grades 4–6 in southwestern Ontario
Authors: Coyne Paige , Vandenborn Elizabeth , Santarossa Sara , Milne Marcia M. , Milne Kevin J. , Woodruff Sarah J.
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the introduction of a fundamental movement skills (FMS) program to grade 4–6 physical education (PE) classes could improve students’ physical literacy (PL) and influence the amount of effort exerted in PE class. Athletics Canada’s grassroots Run Jump Throw Wheel (RJTW) Program was delivered for 10 weeks during PE classes (2 schools: four grade 4, four grade 5, two grade 6, one split grade 5–6 class, and one split grade 6–7 class, totalling 310 students). Participants completed the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (CAPL) and wore heart rate monitors and pre- and postintervention. The CAPL score increased 3.3 (±8.8) points from the pretest to the post-test (t = 6.47, p < 0.001). Improvements were not significantly different by grade or gender, but those in the suburban-area school improved more so than those attending the rural-area school (F[1,294] = 4.82, p < 0.004). Among those participants that increased their PL (n = 186), the CAPL scores increased by 8.6 (±5.9) points versus those that decreased (n = 110; –5.6 ± 4.8 points), F[1,294] = 452.11, p < 0.001. No significant differences in time spent in physical activity were observed between the pre- and post-test (i.e., 17.0 ± 7.0 min and 19.3 ± 7.0 min, respectively, t = 1.70, p = 0.091). The RJTW program increased participants’ overall FMS, as well as their knowledge and understanding regarding these FMS, both key components of PL.
Pseudodifferential calculus on noncommutative tori, I. Oscillating integrals
Authors: Ha Hyunsu , Lee Gihyun , Ponge Raphaël
Published: April 2019

This paper is the first part of a two-paper series whose aim is to give a thorough account on Connes’ pseudodifferential calculus on noncommutative tori. This pseudodifferential calculus has been used in numerous recent papers, but a detailed description is still missing. In this paper, we focus on constructing an oscillating integral for noncommutative tori and laying down the main functional analysis ground for understanding Connes’ pseudodifferential calculus. In particular, this allows us to give a precise explanation of the definition of pseudodifferential operators on noncommutative tori. More generally, this paper introduces the main technical tools that are used in the second part of the series to derive the main properties of these operators.
Phonon dispersion relationship and oxygen isotope effect in superconductor LaFeAsO
Authors: Pak Myong Chol , Ri Chol Won , Pak Hak Chol , Jong Kum Hyok
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we calculate ab initially the phonon dispersion relationship of the superconductor LaFeAsO and investigate a main property in the superconductor, the oxygen isotope effect. Based on this phonon dispersion relationship, we find the fact that an important reason of the oxygen isotope effect is connected with the phonon. This result agrees well with the experimental data where the power index of the oxygen isotope effect in the superconductor LaFeAsO is small.
Finite-size effect on Bose–Einstein condensate mixtures in improved Hartree–Fock approximation
Authors: Thu Nguyen Van , Theu Luong Thi
Published: April 2019

By means of Cornwal–Jackiw–Tomboulis effective action approach we considered the finite-size effect on Bose–Einstein condensate mixtures confined between two parallel palates. Keeping upto double-bubble approximation and taking into account the conservation of Goldstone boson, our results are quite different from those in previous works within one-loop approximation. The order parameters strongly depend on the distance between palates and can be expressed via the correction terms. The Casimir force is also considered.
Effect of plasmonic materials on photonic crystal fiber based surface plasmon resonance sensors
Authors: Yasli Ahmet , Ademgil Huseyin
Published: April 2019

In this study, we proposed photonic crystal fiber (PCF)-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor with gold, bimetallic silver-gold and silver-graphene as active plasmonic layers. Proposed PCF structure with surrounded outer shell of two large analyte channels are studied with spectral interrogation method. Full vectorial Finite Element Method (FV-FEM) with Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) are assigned to investigate the resonance condition, resolution and sensitivities of proposed structures. According to spectral sensitivity analyses, maximum sensitivity reached up to 3000 nm/RIU for gold, 3500 nm/RIU for gold-covered silver and 4000 nm/RIU for graphene-covered silver. Meanwhile, the average sensitivities are around 2850 nm/RIU, 2650 nm/RIU and 3750 nm/RIU for gold, gold-covered silver and graphene-covered silver, respectively.
TEST STUDY ON THE BEST PASTING LAYER OF FRP REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: FAN XIANGQIAN , LIU JUEDING
Published: April 2019

To optimize the strengthening method using the fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) for the reinforcement of the concrete structure with cracks, the three-point bending test was conducted on the concrete beams wrapped with different layers of FRP materials. The strain gauges were pasted on the surface of the specimens to measure the initial cracking load. The crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) was utilized to test the load–crack mouth opening displacement curve. According to the improved calculation formula of the fracture toughness, the critical effect crack length [Formula: see text], initiation fracture toughness [Formula: see text] and instability fracture toughness [Formula: see text] of specimens were calculated. The test results showed that, under the same initial crack depth, the peak load of FRP reinforced concrete decreases with the increase of FRP pasting layer. When there was one layer wrapped over the specimen, the instability toughness of the specimen reached the maximum value and the crack resistance was the best. Based on acoustic emission testing method, the acoustic emission parameters of the above-mentioned concrete during fracture process were identified and collected. The optimal layer of the FRP reinforced concrete with cracks was analyzed from the acoustic emission method.
FILMS SPIN-COATED WITH GALLIC ACID AND THE DETECTION OF SPUN FILMS AGAINST VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
Authors: ŞEN SİBEL
Published: April 2019

To determine thin films’ properties of commercially available gallic acid molecule, they were deposited onto a suitable substrate using spin coater. UV–Visible absorption spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed for the characterization of the deposited thin films. Characterization results obtained by these two techniques indicated that the gallic acid molecules are suitable for transfer onto a glass or quartz substrate. Gas-sensing properties and thickness of these thin films were elucidated using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Thickness values of spun thin films were obtained at different spinning speeds. Then, the gas-sensing properties were examined by exposing them to the vapors of four volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It was found that the spun films of this material were selective for methanol vapor yielding rapid response and recovery time and thin films of gallic acid exhibited reversible changes in the optical behavior, which makes them suitable for practical methanol-detection applications.
Seasonal Variation in Hand and Upper Limb Soft Tissue Infections
Authors: Miller Robert , Pywell Sarah , Chan James , McCluney Simon , Halsey Tim
Published: April 2019

Background: Hand and upper limb soft tissue infections result in significant disability and loss of productivity. Many infections have been shown to follow a seasonal variation, however little is known about this is the context of upper limb soft tissue infections. We aimed to evaluate seasonal variation in acute bacterial, hand and upper limb skin and soft-tissue infections, and correlate findings with key environmental variables.

Methods: Hand and upper limb soft tissue infection cases from 2006–2016 were retrieved from a single UK center. Cases were reviewed for microbiology culture and sensitivity. Correlation between cases and season, temperature and humidity was assessed.

Results: 206 cases were identified for inclusion. Specimens were sent for microbiology in 76.4% of cases. Of these 78.9% were culture positive, 47.6% exhibited antibiotic resistance and 16.9% were multi-resistant. There was a significant difference between season and culture positive cases, with significantly more culture positive cases in the summer vs. winter on post-hoc analysis (p = 0.004). There was a significant positive correlation between higher temperatures and number of culture positive cases (r = 0.75). There was no significant correlation between temperature and antibiotic resistance (r = 0.5) or between humidity and culture positive cases (r = −0.42).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates a seasonal variation in hand and upper limb infections, with a significant correlation between infection rates and ambient temperature. Appreciating seasonal variability of these infections could prove beneficial for surgical planning, public health recommendations and antibiotic guidelines. However, further international data is needed to understand potential mechanisms involved.
A Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tenodesis Technique for Surgical Treatment of Finger PIP Joint Volar Plate Chronic Avulsion
Authors: Rocchi L. , Merendi G. , Mingarelli L. , Mancino F. , Merolli A.
Published: April 2019

Background: Chronic, post-traumatic, avulsion of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint volar plate represents a disabling lesion. The purpose of this report is to describe a flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tenodesis using a mini-bone anchor inserted into the proximal phalanx, and its clinical outcome.

Methods: 15 patients with chronic post-traumatic hyperextension instability of the PIP joint were treated surgically. From the first post-operative day patients were invited to start an early gradual joint active motion, wearing an extension block splint. Forty days after surgery, clinical evaluations were carried out, including: joint stability, pain and range of motion (ROM). The use of a circumferential splint was recommended for two further months, avoiding strenuous manual activities. The range of motion, time lost at work and the functional results were recorded six months after surgery.

Results: At last follow up, 7 of the 13 reviewed patients presented an excellent functional recovery, with complete resolution of pain and stability with attainment of ROM comparable to the contralateral finger. The others 6 patients obtained good results, with remission of the functional impairment and pain, with either residual hyperextension or flexion contracture. There was one case of recurrence consecutively to a premature traumatic work-related activity.

Conclusions: The FDS tenodesis via a bone anchor, combined with early active PIP joint protected motion, was shown in this study to be effective and reliable.
Scapho-Capitate Ratio for Estimation of Scaphoid Length
Authors: Elatta Mohamed Abou , Elglaind Sami M. , Talat Ekramy , Alqaseer Abdulla M. , Basheer Hussam M.
Published: April 2019

Background: The failure of scaphoid reconstruction by restoring both length and shape may lead to carpal mal-alignment and progressive degenerative arthritis. The aim of our study is to find a reliable method to find out the scaphoid length without measuring the contralateral scaphoid.

Methods: Three X-ray wrist views were collected for 51 patients without any signs suggesting any hand and wrist fractures. The scaphoid, capitate and 3rdmetacarpal bone axes lengths and carpal height were measured by 4 hand surgeons separately.

Results: The scapho-capitate ratio was 1.1 ± 0.084, 1.01 ± 0.084 and 0.92 ± 0.109 for lateral, postero-anterior with ulnar deviation and postero-anterior view respectively. The ulnar deviation view had the highest reliability.

Conclusions: Scapho-capitate ratio estimation is an easy and accurate measure of normal scaphoid length in situations when the scaphoid is short. It is helpful for the estimation of the size of the bone graft that need for reconstruction of the scaphoid.
Effectiveness and Safety in Closed Mini-Transverse Incision with Hydro-Dissection Technique in Carpal Tunnel Release: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Leeyaphan Jirapong , Ratanalekha Rosarin
Published: April 2019

Background: Closed mini-wrist transverse incision for carpal tunnel release has been reported in decreasing surgical scar problems, but there were few cadaveric studies that proved the effectiveness and safety in this technique without protective instrument to the median nerve. Hydro-dissection was previously showed to separate median nerve and deep structures during percutaneous ultrasound guided transverse carpal ligament release. This cadaveric study aims to demonstrated effectiveness and safety of closed transverse carpal ligament (TCL) release though the mini-transverse incision at distal wrist crease combined with hydrodissection technique. Neither special instrument nor retractor was used to protect neurovascular structures.

Methods: Twelve fresh frozen cadaveric wrists were included in this study. Completeness of TCL release and injury to the adjacent neurovascular structures were assessed by direct visualization. Thickness of TCL, TCL length and distance from incision to adjacent neurovascular structures were also recorded.

Results: Complete release of TCL was demonstrated in all 12 (100%) wrists underwent the mini-transverse incision TCL release at distal wrist crease and hydro-dissection technique. No injury to the adjacent neurovascular structures was found in all 12 wrists. Mean of thickness of TCL and TCL length were 3 mm and 28.7 mm, respectively. The ulnar artery was the nearest structure to the incision (mean = 3.7 mm).

Conclusions: The closed mini-transverse incision TCL release at distal wrist crease with hydro-dissection technique demonstrated completeness of TCL division and safety to the neurovascular structures without protecting retractor or special instrument.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Associated with Bifid Median Nerve and Palmaris Profundus - Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kostoris Francesco , Bassini Stefania , Longo Emiliano , Murena Luigi
Published: April 2019

The anatomic variations of the median nerve and of the muscles of the wrist have been widely reported in literature. It is essential for the surgeon to be familiar with these variations in order to avoid accidental injury to the nerve during surgery. We report a rare case of bifid median nerve accompanied by an anomalous tendon of palmaris profundus discovered during the surgical release of carpal tunnel. The transverse carpal ligament was dissected and the anomalous tendon was left in situ because any direct compression over the median nerve was noticed intraoperatively. The patient was evaluated one year postoperatively clinically and radiologically (with MRI). At the follow up the resolution of symptoms was complete and the sleep disturbance was solved. The patient achieved a postoperative QuickDASH score of 9.1 and a Michigan Hand Questionnaire outcome score of 90 points.
The progressive development of microfabrics from initial deposition to slump deformation: an example from a modern sedimenary mélange on the Nankai Prism
Authors: Kuranaga Mebae , Kawamura Kiichiro , Kanamatsu Toshiya
Published: April 2019

The progressive development of microfabrics from initial deposition to slump deformation and then a submarine slide was investigated in an active subduction zone using cores recovered during the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Expedition 333. A Pleistocene–Holocene sequence was recovered at Site C0018A, which was located on a slope basin on the footwall of the megasplay fault in the Nankai Trough, SW Japan. Six mass-transport deposit units intercalated with coherent intervals were recovered from the upper 190 m of the drilled succession. The initial microfabrics in the undeformed hemipelagic sediments were characterized by random and porous fabrics composed predominantly of clay aggregations and connectors. The initial fabrics were cardhouse fabrics, which consist of clay flakes with edge-to-edge (E–E) and/or edge-to-face (E–F) contacts. These initial microfabrics developed into compacted microfabrics, which are random and consolidated fabrics (bookhouse fabrics) that consist of clay flakes with E–F and/or face-to-face (F–F) contacts and develop during burial as a pure shear deformation. During slumping, these fabrics were then deformed under simple shear to become predominantly F–F contacts and form clay chains. Thus, the microfabrics in these submarine slides are a sedimentary mélange that developed locally into a preferred clay orientation with F–F contacts.

Supplementary material:
A schematic illustration showing sedimentation processes and fabrics is available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4483385

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Polygenetic mélanges collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/polygenetic-melanges
MongoDB’s JavaScript Fuzzer
Authors: Guo Robert
Published: April 2019

As MongoDB becomes more feature-rich and complex with time, the need to develop more sophisticated methods for finding bugs grows as well. Three years ago, MongDB added a home-grown JavaScript fuzzer to its toolkit, and it is now our most prolific bug-finding tool, responsible for detecting almost 200 bugs over the course of two release cycles. These bugs span a range of MongoDB components from sharding to the storage engine, with symptoms ranging from deadlocks to data inconsistency. The fuzzer runs as part of the CI (continuous integration) system, where it frequently catches bugs in newly committed code.
Remark on “Algorithm 680
Authors: Zaghloul Mofreh R.
Published: April 2019

In this remark, we identify the cause of the loss of accuracy in the computation of the Faddeyeva function,
w
(
z
), near the real axis when using Algorithm 680. We provide a simple correction to this problem that allows us to restore this code as one of the important reference routines for accuracy comparisons.
An interview with Jason Ernst
Authors: Anjum Bushra
Published: April 2019

In this series of interviews with innovation leaders, Ubiquity Associate Editor and software engineer, Dr. Bushra Anjum, sits down with Jason Ernst, CTO of RightMesh, to discuss how his company is using mobile mesh networks to decentralize existing network infrastructure in areas where it doesn't exist or is too expensive to maintain--effectively putting the control of data in the hands of the people.
The Economics of the Naturalist Food Paradigm
Authors: Rausser Gordon , Sexton Steven , Zilberman David
Published: April 2019

Challenges to the conventional paradigm have isolated industrial agriculture from consumer segments exhibiting preferences for a growing array of credence attributes, including organic, locally produced, and raised using humane livestock and poultry practices. This review surveys the empirical evidence on the economic impact of the alternative to the conventional industrial agriculture paradigm that motivates these growing market segments. We define this alternative the Naturalist Paradigm. While more research is needed to completely assess the impacts of specific naturalist responses, current findings demonstrate that restrictions on industrial practices imposed by policy or consumer preferences sacrifice productivity, thereby imposing environmental costs and raising food prices. Such restrictions may also reduce choice sets of consumers, impeding consumer and producer welfare gains. The intended benefits of such practices for human, animal, or environmental well-being must be weighed against the costs they impose. Trade-offs imposed by such practices suggest that their contributions to obesity reduction in the developed world, alleviation of hunger and malnutrition among poor populations, and avoidance of environmental pollution and biodiversity loss are highly uncertain.
Hepatic MyD88 regulates liver inflammation by altering synthesis of oxysterols
Authors: Lefort Charlotte , Van Hul Matthias , Delzenne Nathalie M. , Everard Amandine , Cani Patrice D.
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to investigate the function of hepatic myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), a central adaptor of innate immunity, in metabolism. Although its role in inflammation is well known, we have recently discovered that MyD88 can also mediate energy, lipid, and glucose metabolism. More precisely, we have reported that mice harboring hepatocyte-specific deletion of MyD88 (Myd88ΔHep) were predisposed to glucose intolerance, liver fat accumulation, and inflammation. However, the molecular events explaining the onset of hepatic disorders and inflammation remain to be elucidated. To investigate the molecular mechanism, Myd88ΔHepand wild-type (WT) mice were challenged by two complementary approaches affecting liver lipid metabolism and immunity. The first approach consisted of a short-term exposure to high-fat diet (HFD), whereas the second was an acute LPS injection. We discovered that upon 3 days of HFD Myd88ΔHepmice displayed an increase in liver weight and liver lipids compared with WT mice. Moreover, we found that bile acid and oxysterol metabolism were deeply affected by the absence of hepatic MyD88. Our data suggest that the negative feedback loop suppressing bile acid synthesis was impaired (i.e., ERK activity was decreased) in Myd88ΔHepmice. Finally, the predisposition to inflammation sensitivity displayed by Myd88ΔHepmice may be caused by the accumulation of 25-hydroxycholesterol, an oxysterol linked to inflammatory response and metabolic disorders. This study highlights the importance of MyD88 on both liver fat accumulation and cholesterol-derived bioactive lipid synthesis. These are two key features associated with metabolic syndrome. Therefore, investigating the regulation of hepatic MyD88 could lead to discovery of new therapeutic targets.