bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender and Socio-Economic Issues in the Clinical Assessment of Orthopaedic Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Moretti Lorenzo , Bizzoca Davide , Vitale Elsa , Delmedico Michelangelo , Spinarelli Antonio , Azzola Flavio , Solarino Giuseppe , Moretti Biagio
Published: March 2021

This observational study aims to depict the impact of gender and socio-economic issues on the health status of Italian Orthopaedic patients during the COVID-19 lockdown. An Ad Hoc ques-tionnaire was developed and online administered. The following data were extracted from the questionnaire: age, body mass index (BMI), education level, distance from hospital, orthopaedic disease, concomitant medical comorbidities, living status (with/without cohabitants) and physical activity level (according to Tegner Activity Scale). The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown was studied analyzing differences related to the above-mentioned parameters. A significant increase of the call number to general practitioner and to the orthopaedic surgeon was observed during the COVID-lockdown, especially in patients with higher education level. Nonetheless, a reduced compliance in drugs assumption was observed in patients with higher education level during lockdown (p=0.007). Almost all the analyzed items were significantly in-fluenced by the distance between patient’s domicile and the nearest hospital. However, no sig-nificant differences were observed comparing pre-COVID to COVID lockdown. In the present study patients’ gender and education level revealed a significant impact on the social behavior during the COVID lockdown, compared with the pre-COVID period.
Comparative analysis of maternal mortality in the Far Eastern and Siberian Federal Districts
Authors:   Chita State Medical Academy, Chita, Russian Federation, Belokrinitskaya T.E. , Artymuk N.V. ,   Kemerovo State Medical University, Kemerovo, Russian Federation, Filippov O.S. ,   A.I.Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shifman E.M. ,   M.F.Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research and Clinical Institute, Moscow, Russian Federation, Surina M.N. ,   Kemerovo State Medical University, Kemerovo, Russian Federation, Frolova N.I. ,   Chita State Medical Academy, Chita, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

Objective. To perform comparative analysis of parameters and structure of maternal mortality (MM) in the Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD) and Siberian Federal District (SFD) in 2014–2019. Materials and methods. The database for analysis was generated using map-based emergency notifications of maternal deaths (69 in FEFD and 180 in SFD). We used methods of descriptive statistics, Pearson's χ2-test, and calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Results. Between 2014 and 2018, the dynamics of MM in the FEFD and SFD had a one-way trend: it decreased in 2014–2017, but dramatically increased in 2018 primarily due to social factors. In 2019, we observed a significant growth of MM in the FEFD, while the SFD demonstrated a reduction of MM. The most common cause of maternal death in both districts was extragenital diseases. However, there were some differences in the structure of obstetric causes: in FEFD, preeclampsia and obstetric hemorrhage were the most frequent obstetric causes of death, while in SFD, women primarily developed embolism and placental abruption. Conclusion. The dynamics and structure of MM in the FEFD and SFD require management decisions aimed at improving medical care with the consideration of clinical guidelines, organization of continuous audit, systematic development of practical teamwork skills both in simulation training centers and healthcare institutions. Key words: Far Eastern Federal District, maternal mortality, Siberian Federal District
Prenatal screening and non-invasive prenatal testing regulation in the Russian Federation
Authors:   Сity Clinical Hospital No 24, Moscow, Russian Federation, Olenev A.S. , Baranova E.E. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Сontinuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sagaydak O.V. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Galaktionova A.M. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Belenikin M.S. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Gnetetskaya V.A. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Group of companies «Mother and child», Moscow, Russian Federation, Zobkova G.Yu. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation,   L.A.Vorokhobov City Сlinical Hospital No 67, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kosova E.V. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Makarova M.V. ,   Evogen LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Songolova E.N. ,   L.A.Vorokhobov City Сlinical Hospital No 67, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

Congenital malformations, chromosomal and monogenic disease play a significant role in perinatal mortality and child disability. According to the early prenatal screening results in the Russian Federation in 2018, the overall ratio of chromosomal anomaly prevalence is 1:250–1:300. Currently aneuploidy risk is calculated by using indirect biochemical and ultrasound markers, that have low sensitivity and specificity which can cause false positives and false negative results leading to unreasonable invasive procedures or missing chromosomal anomalies. It is well known that cell-free fetal DNA is detected in maternal blood. Whole‐genome sequencing based non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) can detect fetal chromosomal aneuploidy with high sensitivity as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy. The accuracy of determining fetal sex is also high: sensitivity and specificity are 98,9% and 99,9% respectively. Implementing molecular technology into clinical practice is required to improve prenatal diagnosis in the Russian Federation, icluding Moscow. Integration of NIPT to analyse cell-free fetal DNA will increase the efficiency of fetal chromosomal anomalies’ detection. However, there are some legal and ethical aspects to consider when integrating a new technology for wide-spread use. This review reveals arguable issues of NIPT integration into widespread clinical practice and possible ways of solving those issues. Key words: NIPT, noninvasive prenatal test, prenatal screening, fetal sex, invasive prenatal diagnosis, X-linked disease, chromosomal anomaly, chromosomal microarray analysis
Endotoxicosis and placental dysfunction in pregnant women with acute pyelonephritis
Authors:   V.I.Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, Russian Federation, Khvorostukhina N.F. , Plekhanov A.A. ,   V.I.Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, Russian Federation, Novichkov D.A. ,   V.I.Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, Russian Federation, Romanovskaya A.V. ,   V.I.Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, Russian Federation, Ramazanova A.N. ,   V.I.Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, Russian Federation
Published: March 2021

Objective. To assess the impact of endotoxicosis in pregnant women with acute pyelonephritis (AP) on the function of the utero-placental-fetal complex and gestational outcomes. Patients and methods. This study included 37 pregnant women with AP (Group 1) and 35 women with uncomplicated pregnancy (Group 2). Patients have undergone Doppler ultrasonography. In addition to that, we measured leukocyte intoxication index, total endotoxin, pregnancy-specific beta-1-glycoprotein (PSBG-1), and placental alpha microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) in serum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. AP during pregnancy led to placental dysfunction with desynchronization of pregnancy protein synthesis, endotoxicosis, and changes in hemodynamics in the uterine arteries, which, in case of standard treatment, increased the frequency of placental premature aging (43.2%), amniotic fluid disorders (32.4%), fetal growth retardation (27.8%), gestational hypertension (40.5%), preeclampsia (37.8%), preterm birth (27.8%), and caesarean section (32.4%). We found a correlation between the uterine artery resistance index and the level of endotoxicosis markers, as well as PSBG-1 and PAMG-1 levels. Conclusion. Our findings suggest the need for further studies in this area in order to develop a complex of therapeutic measures to increase the number of successful pregnancy outcomes after AP. Key words: pregnancy, acute pyelonephritis, placental dysfunction, endotoxicosis
HUBUNGAN ANTARA MOTIVASI MENJADI GURU DENGAN NILAI KETERAMPILAN MENGAJAR MAHASISWA PKM
Authors: Martini Lisdewi , Soeprijanto  , Wadjdi Faried
Published: March 2021

This research aims to determine of the relationship between motivation being a teacher and the value of PKM students teaching skills. In this research using quantitative approach with descriptive-correlative method. The population and sample in this research is the students in Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, State University of Jakarta. The technique of data collection is hypothesis test, t-test with previously performed prerequisite analysis test: normality test and linearity test.The calculation  results shows that hypothesis test with significance level of 5% obtained rcount = 0,4685 and rtable = 0,230 rcalculated > rtable then the value that of tcalculated = 4,04652 and ttabel = 1,998 which tcalculated > ttabel  then its shows that there is positive and significant relationship between motivation being a teacher and the value of PKM students teaching skills. This research contributes to the world of education about the relationship between motivation being a teacher and the value of PKM students teaching skills and being a reference material for the next research, so the learning that gives is able to encourage or increase motivation being a teacher for students.

ABSTRAK

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara motivasi menjadi guru dengan nilai keterampilan mengajar mahasiswa PKM. Pada penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan metode deskriptif korelatif. Populasi dan sampel dalam penelitian adalah mahasiswa Program Studi Teknik Elektro Fakultas Teknik Univeristas Negeri Jakarta. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah uji hipotesis dan uji-t yang sebelumnya dilakukan uji prasyarat analisis menggunakan uji normalitas dan uji linieritas. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa uji hipotesis dengan taraf signifikansi 5% diperoleh nilai rhitung = 0,4685 dan nilai rtabel = 0,230, kemudian nilai thitung sebesar = 4,04652 dan nilai ttabel sebesar = 1,998 dimana thitung  >  ttabel  maka menunjukan terdapat hubungan yang positif dan signifikan antara motivasi menjadi guru dengan nilai keterampilan mengajar mahasiswa PKM. Penelitiam ini memberikan kontribusi pada dunia pendidikan mengenai hubungan antara motivasi menjadi guru dengan nilai keterampilan mengajar mahasiswa PKM dan menjadi bahan referensi untuk penelitian selanjutnya, sehingga pembelajaran yang diberikan mampu mendorong atau meningkatkan motivasi menjadi guru pada mahasiswa.
HUBUNGAN ANTARA PENGATURAN DIRI DALAM BELAJAR (SELF REGULATED LEARNING) DAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR DENGAN HASIL BELAJAR INSTALASI TENAGA LISTRIK KELASI XII SMK PATRIOR 1 BEKASI
Authors: Maulana Sandy , Daryanto  , Hanifah Yuninda Nur
Published: March 2021

The Relationship between Self-Arrangement in Learning, and Learning Motivation with Student Learning Outcomes Class XII TITL SMK Patriot 1 Bekasi. Essay. Electrical Engineering Education Study Program, Faculty of Engineering, Jakarta State University. 2019. Advisor: Dr. Daryanto, MT, Nur Hanifah Yunida, ST., MT. Self Regulated Learning is known as metacognition that works on learning processes that are equipped with learning planning, learning, and evaluating learning outcomes. Motivation Learning is a mental force to carry out activities in order to meet expectations and encouraging in this case is the purpose of learning. Learning Outcomes are changes that students have after receiving a learning experience that can be taken and learned in the form of knowledge, skills, attitudes, information, strategies and cognitive. The purpose of this study was to study the Relationship between Self-Arrangement in Learning and Learning Learning Motivation with Student Learning Outcomes Class XII TITL SMK Patriot 1 Bekasi. This research is a quantitative study with a correlative descriptive research design. The population in this study was the students of the TITL Vocational School Patriot 1 Bekasi class of 2018/2019. The sample of this research was 30 students of TITL SMK Patriot 1 Bekasi in 2018/2019. Self Regulated Learning (X1) and learning motivation (X2) research data were taken by filling in the research instrument containing a questionnaire and the Learning Outcomes (Y) research data was taken from the grades of class XII UAS students on electric power installation subjects. The data is stated validity and reliability, then the data are analyzed through normality test, linearity test, regression analysis, coefficient analysis, and significance test with t-test and f-test with a significance level of 5%. The conclusions between X1 and Y obtained coefficient ryx1 analysis = 0.599, significance coefficient obtained tcount (3.95)> ttable (2.05) with a contribution of 35.8%, while between X2 and Y obtained coefficient ryx2 analysis = 0.519, test significance coefficient obtained tcount (3.20)> ttable (2.05) with a contribution of 26.9%. and for the relationship X1 X2 and Y, the value of ryx1x2 = 0.618 is obtained, then the value of fcount = 8.34> ftabel = 3.35, which means fcount> ftabel, so it can be broadcast related to a positive and significant relationship. Class XII TITL SMK Patriot 1 Bekasi.
EMG Characterization of Embouchure Muscle Activity: Reliability and Application to Embouchure Dystonia
Authors: Iltis Peter W , Givens Michael W
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the study was to develop a method to quantitatively and qualitatively describe the activity of selected muscles of the embouchure in French horn players using surface electromyography (EMG). Also, the reliability of several dependent variables that may be useful in future
studies of embouchure dystonia (ED) was assessed. Five volunteers, including four normal French hornists (two male, two female) and one performer with ED performed two standardized tasks on two different occasions. The first task consisted of playing four iterations of two notes, one that
elicited tremor in the ED subject and one that did not. This was followed by a 60-sec fatigue trial on the nontremor note. The levator labii and depressor anguli oris muscles were instrumented with miniature surface electrodes, and a microphone within a mute allowed audio signals from the
horn to be simultaneously recorded. The presence of tremor was uniquely identified in the ED subject using EMG, and continuous wavelet transformation scalogram comparisons indicated temporal differences in signal power (μV2/Hz) as well as in the dominant frequency range. Within-trial
reliability for amplitude, mean and median frequency, zero crossings, and power was excellent (r ≥ 0.977) for both muscles on the first performance task. Between-session reliability ranged from fair to good (r = 0.677–0.898) on these same variables. Numerous other variables
associated with the fatigue task also showed good to high reliability (r = 0.90–0.99) between testing sessions. The findings suggest that the simple testing protocol presented may be of use in future studies of ED.
The Use of Multimodal Feedback in Retraining Complex Technical Skills of Piano Performance
Authors: Riley Kathleen , Coons Edgar E , Marcarian David
Published: March 2021

Piano students working to improve technique often practice the same passage over and over to achieve accuracy, increase speed, or perfect interpretive nuance. However, without proper skeletal alignment of hands, arms, and shoulders and balance between the muscles involved, such repetition
may lead to difficulties with, rather than mastery of, technique and stylistic interpretation and even physical injury. A variety of technologies have been developed to monitor skeletal alignment and muscle balance that serve to help students and teachers make needed corrections during performance
by providing immediate biofeedback. This paper describes and illustrates a multimodal use of these biofeedback technologies and the powerful advantages of such a multimodal approach in making the student and teacher not only aware of improper alignments and balances in real time (or for later
review) but also aware of approaches to correct them and improve musical outcome. The modalities consist of hearing playback through a Disklavier piano; simultaneous visual feedback displayed as a piano roll screen of what was played; video recording synchronized with the Disklavier and piano
roll feedback; motion analysis of the arms, hands, and fingers; and electromyographic recordings of the muscle actions involved.
A New Method for Quantification of Musician's Dystonia: The Frequency of Abnormal Movements Scale
Authors: Spector June T , Brandfonbrener Alice G
Published: March 2021

There is currently, no validated objective method available for the quantification of musicians dystonia applicable to different types of instrumentalists. To address this issue, we developed the Frequency of Abnormal Movements (FAM) scale and assessed its intra- and inter-rater correlation
and concordance, internal consistency, and responsiveness. We also compared the FAM scale to the arm dystonia disability scale (ADDS) and Burke-Fahn- Marsden (BFM) scale. Eighteen patients with musicians dystonia were videotaped playing their instruments before and after sensory motor retuning
therapy. Two raters, blinded to the order of the randomized video segments, independently rated each segment using the FAM, ADDS, and BFM scales. Intra-rater correlation (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.92, Spearmans rho = 0.87), concordance (weighted kappa = 0.76), and internal
consistency (Cronbachs a = 0.96) for the FAM scale were good. Inter-rater correlation and concordance were better for the FAM scale (weighted k = 0.94, ICC = 0.96, Spearmans rho = 0.90) than for the ADDS or BFM scales (weighted k = 0.56-0.57, ICC scale = 0.81-0.82, Spearmans a = 0.68-0.76).
The decrease in the FAM after 1 week of sensory motor retuning therapy was less likely to be due to chance (p = 0.06) than the decrease in the ADDS or BFM scales (p = 0.21-0.53). The FAM scale may be useful for clinical and research evaluations of patients with musicians dystonia.
Assessment of Muscle Activity and Joint Angles in Small-Handed Pianists: A Pilot Study on the 7/8-Sized Keyboard versus the Full-Sized Keyboard
Authors: Wristen B G , Jung M C , Wismer A K G , Hallbeck M S
Published: March 2021

This pilot study examined whether the use of a 7/8 keyboard contributed to the physical ease of small-handed pianists as compared with the conventional piano keyboard. A secondary research question focused on the progression of physical ease in pianists making the transition from one
keyboard to the other. For the purposes of this study, a hand span of 8 inches or less was used to define a “small-handed” pianist. The goal was to measure muscle loading and hand span during performance of a specified musical excerpt. For data collection, each of the two participants
was connected to an 8-channel electromyography system via surface electrodes, which were attached to the upper back/shoulder, parts of the hand and arm, and masseter muscle of the jaw. Subjects also were fitted with electrogoniometers to capture how the span from the first metacarpophalangeal
(MCP) joint to the fifth MCP joint moves according to performance demands, as well as wrist flexion and extension and radial and ulnar deviation. We found that small-handed pianists preferred the smaller keyboard and were able to transition between it and the conventional keyboard. The maximal
angle of hand span while playing a difficult piece was about 5º smaller radially and 10º smaller ulnarly for the 7/8 keyboard, leading to perceived ease and better performance as rated by the pianists.
Health and Care of Performing Artists in Cuba
Authors: Babin Angela
Published: March 2021

IN MARCH 2007, 15 health professionals and artists from the United States travelled to Cuba to learn firsthand about the Cuban healthcare system and also to see the Cuban approach to artists' health and safety. We went as part of a U.S.-licensed charter program with the goal of research
exchange. This program offered us a view of the healthcare facilities and presentations with health professionals as well as rehearsals and performances by performing artists and performing arts students. We met the healthcare personnel who care for the artists and learned about techniques
they use to mitigate health hazards to these artists. Thus, in our brief glimpse of Cuba, we were graciously hosted, entertained, and informed.
Health and Wellness Issues for Adult Band Musicians
Authors: Rohwer Debbie
Published: March 2021

Because issues involved with playing an instrument may be complicated by the aging process, age may be an important variable to investigate in health studies. The current study examined the perceived health challenges of a group of adult instrumental musicians and possible accommodations
for these challenges. Participants included 83 adult white musicians, aged 47 to 91 yrs, 52 females and 31 males, who were attending a national summer senior band camp. Fifty-two played woodwind and 31 brass or percussion instruments. The participants were given a questionnaire asking about
(1) the degree of trouble with vision, hearing, finger/hand, arm/neck, back/leg, and other physical ailments while playing their instrument; (2) whether any pain experienced was greater when playing music than in everyday life; and (3) accommodations they may have found for any physical troubles
they experienced. Visual problems when reading music were noted as the participants' greatest challenge, followed by finger/joint pain, hearing speech, and hand pain. Visual problems when reading music were a top concern across all instrument subgroups, followed by finger/joint pain for woodwind
players, hearing speech for brass players, and both hand and finger/ joint pain for percussionists. Accommodations for vision problems most commonly included placing the lens line higher on bifocal lenses so that both the conductor and music could be seen. Accommodations for ailments centered
around two general issues: things a musician could buy (e.g., ear plugs, instrument rests, cushions) or things they could do to avoid pain (e.g., education, stretching).
Substance Use in Dance Sport
Authors: Sekulic Damir , Kostic Radmila , Miletic Durdica
Published: March 2021

Very few studies have been conducted on substance use (SU) in performing sports. In the current study, we analyzed SU and factors related to SU in dance sport. The sample subjects consisted of 21 female and 22 male dancers, all >19 years of age, who were given an anonymous questionnaire
developed for this study. The questionnaire consisted of questions about 1) social, cultural, educational, and sport-related factors, and 2) SU, including alcohol, opiates, cigarettes, and doping consumption, and personal opinions. The chi-square test was used to define the differences between
male and female dancers. To identify the relationships between the studied factors and SU, the Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated separately in males and females. We found a relatively low incidence of cigarette smoking (<10%) and significant differences between males and
females in opinions regarding doping issues. The level of the sport achievement in females and religiousness in male dancers was significantly related to SU. Although not frequent, the consumption of alcohol was more common in more successful and experienced dancers. The use of pain killers
was related to age in female dancers (all at p < 0.05). Based on these results, we recommend educational programs regarding SU, especially about doping problems, in sport dance.
Measuring the Health of Performing Artists
Authors: Manchester Ralph A
Published: March 2021

All of us who are concerned about the health of performing artists hope that, through our combined efforts, we will see improvements in the health status of musicians, dancers, actors, and other performers in the coming years. Ideally, this will mean the betterment of all aspects of
performing artists' health, including the physical, psychological, social, and creative domains. (Obviously, this will require a dramatic change in how health care is delivered and paid for in the U.S., but that is a broader topic than I can cover in a brief editorial.) But in order to know
if we are making progress, we need to have data on some key health indicators. What I will discuss in the next few paragraphs is how we might be able to measure the health of performing artists, mainly with regard to performance-related injuries.
Musicians and Physicians—A Comparison of Psychosocial Strain Patterns and Resources
Authors: Voltmer Edgar , Schauer Ingolf , Schröder Harry , Spahn Claudia
Published: March 2021

Objectives: This study examined the behavior and experience patterns of orchestra musicians of different age groups and compared them with those of physicians. Health-relevant risk factors and resources should be identified. Methods: Professional orchestra musicians and
physicians, at the beginning of their careers, were surveyed with the questionnaire “Work-related Behavior and Experience Pattern” (AVEM). Results from 238 musicians and 344 physicians could be analyzed. Results: Healthy behavior and experience patterns were found in about
60% of musicians. The healthiest pattern G was found to be much higher in musicians than in physicians (39% vs 17% in the group <35 yrs, and 27% vs 16% in the 35-49 yr group). For 21% and 27% of the musicians (vs 14% and 10% of physicians), it was a pattern of overexertion. The relation
of resignation and a burnout-related behavior pattern was almost twice as high in physicians (24% and 32%) than in musicians (17% and 14%). At the single dimensions level, regarding professional commitment, resistance toward stress, and emotional well-being, there were also significant differences.
Conclusions: Musicians and physicians differ significantly in work-related behavior and experience patterns. Specific interventions of health promotion should prevent the resulting strain and risk for illness that already commented in the course of this study.
After the Curtain Falls: On the Post-Performance Adjustment of Solo Singers
Authors: Bodner Ehud , Bensimon Moshe
Published: March 2021

The purpose of our study was to examine the psychological experience of a particular type of performing musicians, solo singers, upon finishing their stage performance. Thirty-eight professional rock singers completed questionnaires related to their self-esteem, positive and negative
affects, and purpose in life, at 3 days before and after their performance. The contribution of these variables to the prediction of the participants' sense of purpose in life before and after performance was analyzed. We also compared the scores obtained from the singers' mental health condition
with the scores of nonsingers who were nonpatients, ambulatory-neurotic patients, or inpatient-psychiatric patients tested by Florian and Drory in 1990. Results showed a post-performance decrement in emotional intensity and in the singers' sense of purpose in life. The singers' ability to
maintain their sense of purpose in life after the performance was predicted by their professional experience, psychological well-being, and psychological mental distress. The singers' mental health appeared better than both the ambulatory-neurotic and inpatient- psychiatric groups, but it
was worse than the mental health of the nonpatients. The meanings of these findings and their implications for post-performance psychotherapy are discussed.
Genees & Kunst 6: Sixth Biannual Symposium on Medical Problems of Dancers and Musicians, Den Haag, April 1, 2008
Authors: Rietveld A B M (Boni) , Winterkorn-Pierrot C I C A (Camilla)
Published: March 2021

On Tuesday, April 1, 2008, the Dutch Performing Arts Medicine Association (NVDMG) organized a scientific, artistic and, above all, festive symposium, "Genees & Kunst 6," for its sixth member assembly. The assembly, held at the Medical Centre of The Hague, was co-hosted
by Dr. A.B.M. (Boni) Rietveld, President of NVDMG and head of the Medical Centre for Dancers & Musicians, and by Mr. P.E. (Peter) van der Meer, MBA, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Medical Centre of The Hague (MCH). Scientific presentations, interspersed with dance and music
performances, were given by NVDMG members and by two special guest presenters: Dr. W.J.B. (Walter) Mastboom, surgeon in the Medisch Spectrum Twente, in Enschede, The Netherlands, talked about parotid gland surgery and its consequences for the embouchure in wind players. And Dr. A. (Bert) Roldaan,
pulmonologist in the Haga Ziekenhuis in The Hague and past director of the Nederlands Astmacentrum in Davos, Switzerland, addressed artists with shortness of breath and COPD. The scientific program continued with NVDMG presenters including: P.A.M. (Peter) de Beer, medical adviser of the world
famous André Rieu Orchestra in Maastricht, on medical care of an orchestra touring internationally; M.E. (Mamie) Air, medical student at Yale University and Fulbright Scholar to The Netherlands 2007-08, working with Dr. Rietveld, on successful treatment of Freibergs disease in a preprofessional
dancer; A.L. (Bram) de Blécourt, psychiatrist, Bergen op Zoom, on the impending dissonance between dancers/musicians and audience and the role of the psychiatrist; and F.M. (Frits) van der Linden, surgeon at Groene Hart Ziekenhuis, Gouda, on the hair of Beethoven.
Looking at Musicians' Health through the “Ages”
Authors: Manchester Ralph A
Published: March 2021

This month's editorial is based on a presentation that I did at the International Congress on Music Physiology and Musicians Medicine, which was held in Freiburg, Germany, in late March. Stimulated by some recent articles published in MPPA, I attempted to review what we know about the
pattern of performance-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) among instrumental musicians over the lifespan. For the purposes of this review, I have not made any attempt to do a rigorous critique of the methods used in each study, but there are some key definitions and terminology that
are relevant. Since even small differences in terminology can produce significant variation in the results, this adds to the difficulty of drawing conclusions from the studies published to date.
The Alpha and Omega of Musical Pitch Processing—Absolute Pitch and Congenital Amusia
Authors: Dawson William J
Published: March 2021

The neurobiology of music has been a prolific source of publications in performing arts medicine over the past 15 years. A common research topic in music neurobiology is how humans perceive and process music. This review concentrates on two opposite aspects of pitch processing—heightened
ability (absolute pitch) and absent ability (congenital amusia). From the bibliography of performing arts medicine found on the website of the Performing Arts Medicine Association, 165 citations were identified (as of February 2009) that deal with these topics, 149 on absolute pitch and 70
on congenital amusia, and form the basis of this review.
Abstracts from the Literature, No. 45
Authors: Dawson William J
Published: March 2021

Installment 45.
Combined effects of predicted climate and land use changes on future hydrological droughts in the Luanhe River basin, China
Authors: Chen Xu , Han Ruiguang , Wang Yongjie
Published: March 2021

Drought can be impacted by both climate change and land use change in different ways. Thus, in order to predict future drought conditions, hydrological simulations as an ideal means, can be used to account for both projected climate change and projected land use change. In this study, projected climate and land use changes were integrated with the SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) model to estimate the combined impact of climate and land use projections on hydrological droughts in the Luanhe River basin. We presented that the measured runoff and the remote sensing inversion of soil water content were simultaneously used to validate the model to ensure the reliability of model parameters. Following the calibration and validation, the SWAT model was forced with downscaled precipitation and temperature outputs from a suite of nine Global Climate Models (GCMs) based on the CMIP5, corresponding to three different representative concentration pathways (RCP 2.6, RCP 4.5 and 8.5) for three distinct time periods: 2011–2040, 2041–2070 and 2071–2100, referred to as early-century, mid-century and late-century, respectively, and the land use predicted by CA-Markov model in the same future periods. Hydrological droughts were quantified using the Standardized Runoff Index (SRI). Compared to the baseline scenario (1961–1990), mild drought occurred more frequently during the next three periods (except the 2080s under the RCP2.6 emission scenario). Under the RCP8.5 emission scenario, the probability of severe drought or above occurring in the 2080s increased, the duration prolonged and the severity increased. Under the RCP2.6 scenario, the upper central region of the Luanhe river in the 2020s and upper reaches of the Luanhe river in the 2080s, were more likely to suffer extreme drought events. And under the RCP8.5 scenario, the middle and lower Luanhe river in the 2080s, were more likely to suffer these conditions.
Therapeutic effect of EGF secreted by human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells on atopic dermatitis
Authors: Jung Namhee , Kong TaeHo , Yu Yeonsil , Park Hwanhee , Lee Eunjoo , Yoo SaeMi , Baek Song Yi , Lee Seunghee , Kang Kyung-Sun
Published: March 2021

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are emerging as a treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD), which is a common inflammatory skin disorder that affects a large number of people across the world. Treatment of AD using human umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) has recently been studied; however, the mechanism underlying the effects of these cells is unclear. This study investigated the effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) secreted by hUCB-MSCs on AD. hUCB-MSCs secreted a high concentration of EGF compared with other cell types. To elucidate the effect of EGF secreted by hUCB-MSCs, EGF expression was downregulated in hUCB-MSCs using EGF-targeting small interfering RNA, and these cells were co-cultured with keratinocytes, Th2 cells, and mast cells. Depletion of EGF expression disrupted the immunomodulatory effects of hUCB-MSCs on these AD-related inflammatory cells. In a Dermatophagoides farinae-induced AD mouse model, subcutaneous injection of hUCB-MSCs ameliorated gross scoring, histopathologic damage, and mast cell infiltration, and significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-4, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFa), thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), and IL-22, as well as the serum IgE level. These therapeutic effects were significantly attenuated at all evaluation points in mice injected with EGF-depleted hUCB-MSCs. Taken together, these results suggest that EGF secreted by hUCB-MSCs plays an important role in treatment of AD by regulating the inflammatory response in keratinocytes, Th2 cells, and mast cells.
Main role of antibodies in demyelination and axonal damage in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Muñoz Úrsula , Sebal Cristina , Escudero Esther , Esiri Margaret , Tzartos John , Sloan Carolyn , Sadaba Mari Cruz
Published: March 2021

Background
Antibodies and oxidative stress are hallmarks of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions. We aimed to clarify the relation between them, their role in MS patients, and to investigate their specificity, comparing MS with classical neurodegenerative diseases (ND).
Methods
Brain samples from 14 MS cases, 6 with ND and 9 without neurological diseases (controls). Immunohistochemistry assays were used to detect oxidized lipids (EO6), IgG and IgM, oligodendrocytes (Olig2), axons (NF, neurofilament) and cellular (TUNEL) and axonal damage (APP, amyloid precursor protein).
Results
We did not observe EO6 in controls. All samples from MS patients showed EO6 in oligodendrocytes and axons within lesions. We did not detect co-localization between EO6 and antibodies. Neither did we between EO6 and TUNEL or APP. 94.4% of TUNEL positive cells in normal appearing white matter were also stained for IgG and 75.5% for IgM. IgM, but not IgG co-localized with APP. EO6 was associated with axonal damage in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We did not observe association between antibodies and cellular or axonal damage in ND patients. MS patients showed a higher number of B cells and plasma cells in the lesions and meninges than controls. The number of B cells and plasma cells was associated with the presence of antibodies and with the activity of the lesions.
Conclusions
We observed a main role of B-lymphocytes in the development of MS lesions. Antibodies contribute to the oligodendrocyte and axonal damage in MS. Oxidative stress was associated with axonal damage in ALS.
Seed longevity studies in wild type, cultivated and inter-specific recombination inbred lines (RILs) of soybean
Authors: Chandra Subhash , Talukdar Akshay , Taak Yashpal , Yadav Raju R. , Saini Manisha , Sipani N. S.
Published: March 2021

Loss of seed viability is a serious hurdle in higher production and ambient seed storage of soybean. Understanding the factors affecting seed viability and identification of soybean genotype(s) with higher viability is critical for higher soybean production. In this study, seeds of 125 soybean genotypes of three different species (Glycine tomentella, Glycine soja and Glycine max) and 25 RILs (Glycine soja × Glycine soja) were tested for germination immediately after harvest followed by one, two and three years of ambient storage. Fresh seeds of all the genotypes recorded 78-99% germination with a mean of 94.02%. However, the mean value of per cent germination of all the genotypes after one, two and three years of ambient storage decreased and found to stand at 79.51%, 52.24% and 29.18%, respectively. Among the genotypes tested, G. tomentella accession registered highest seed storability followed by G. soja, RILs and G. max. After three years of storage, 14 wild type genotypes and 3 RILs maintained >70% germination and identified as ‘good storers’. Genetic divergence studies via k-mean clustering and principal component analysis grouped all genotypes in three cluster/component based on seed size, seed coat permeability and seed viability. Seed viability was significantly and negatively correlated with electrical conductivity. Good storers found to be having slow imbibition rate than poor storers in initial hours of imbibition. The good storing genotypes identified in this study will serve as an elite soybean genetic resource in developing the soybean cultivars with better seed longevity.
Passive Immunity Trial for Our Nation (PassITON): study protocol for a randomized placebo-control clinical trial evaluating COVID-19 convalescent plasma in hospitalized adults
Authors: Self Wesley H. , Stewart Thomas G. , Wheeler Allison P. , Atrouni Wissam El , Bistran-Hall Amanda J. , Casey Jonathan D. , Cataldo Vince D. , Chappell James D. , Cohn Claudia S. , Collins Jessica B. , Denison Mark R. , de Wit Marjolein , Dixon Sheri L. , Duggal Abhijit , Edwards Terri L. , Fontaine Magali J. , Ginde Adit A. , Harkins Michelle S. , Harrington Thelma , Harris Estelle S. , Hoda Daanish , Ipe Tina S. , Jaiswal Stuti J. , Johnson Nicholas J. , Jones Alan E. , Laguio-Vila Maryrose , Lindsell Christopher J. , Mallada Jason , Mammen Manoj J. , Metcalf Ryan A. , Middleton Elizabeth A. , Mucha Simon , O'Neal Hollis R. , Pannu Sonal R. , Pulley Jill M. , Qiao Xian , Raval Jay S. , Rhoads Jillian P. , Schrager Harry , Shanholtz Carl , Shapiro Nathan I. , Schrantz Stephen J. , Thomsen Isaac , Vermillion Krista K. , Bernard Gordon R. , Rice Todd W.
Published: March 2021

Background: Convalescent plasma is being used widely as a treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the clinical efficacy of COVID-19 convalescent plasma is unclear. Methods: The Passive Immunity Trial for Our Nation (PassITON), is a multicenter, placebo-controlled, blinded, randomized clinical trial being conducted in the United States to provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy of COVID-19 convalescent plasma as a treatment for adults hospitalized with symptomatic disease. Adults hospitalized with COVID-19 with respiratory symptoms for less than 14 days are eligible. Enrolled patients are randomized in a 1:1 ratio to 1 unit (200-399 mL) of COVID-19 convalescent plasma that has demonstrated neutralizing function using a SARS-CoV-2 chimeric virus neutralization assay. Study treatments are administered in a blinded fashion and patients are followed for 28 days. The primary outcome is clinical status 14 days after study treatment as measured on a 7-category ordinal scale assessing mortality, respiratory support, and return to normal activities of daily living. Key secondary outcomes include mortality and oxygen-free days. The trial is projected to enroll 1000 patients and is designed to detect an odds ratio ≤ 0.73 for the primary outcome. Discussion: This trial will provide the most robust data available to date on the efficacy of COVID-19 convalescent plasma for the treatment of adults hospitalized with acute moderate to severe COVID-19. These data will be useful to guide the treatment of COVID-19 patients in the current pandemic and for informing decisions about whether developing a standardized infrastructure for collecting and disseminating convalescent plasma to prepare for future viral pandemics is indicated. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04362176. Date of trial registration: April 24, 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04362176
Identification of the tetrad-sterility-causing Solanum stoloniferum cytoplasm in interspecific hybrids with S. tuberosum
Authors: Sanetomo Rena , Nashiki Akito
Published: March 2021

Tetrad sterility, in which only clumps of four premature pollen grains are released from anthers, has been observed in some modern potato cultivars. It is a form of cytoplasmic male sterility caused by the cytoplasm derived from the Mexican tetraploid species Solanum stoloniferum Schlechtd. et Bché., an important source of resistance to Potato virus Y in potato breeding. However, since S. stoloniferum is highly polymorphic, the source of tetrad-sterility-causing cytoplasm is unknown among diverse S. stoloniferum accessions. In this study, we directly crossed 24 S. stoloniferum accessions with pollen from 4x S. tuberosum and obtained 39 hybrids from 12 accessions. Nineteen hybrids from six accessions showed tetrad sterility, with either D/γ- or W/γ-type cytoplasm, and were triploid, tetraploid, or hexaploid. The W/γ-type cytoplasm was not necessarily associated with tetrad sterility. Sequence comparisons of 17 mitochondrial genes and their intergenic regions revealed a length polymorphism in the intergenic region between rpl5 and rps10, in which an amplified band of 859 bp was associated with tetrad sterility. This specific cytoplasm causing tetrad sterility is named TSCsto. The 859-bp band would be a useful diagnostic marker for identifying TSCsto in potato breeding.
Fram Strait: Possible key to saving Arctic ice
Authors: Ivanova Detelina , Bhattacharyya Subarna , Field Leslie , Mlaker Velimir , Strawa Anthony , Player Timothy , Sholtz Alexander
Published: March 2021

We present a modeling study of the sensitivity of present-day Arctic climate dynamics to increases in sea ice albedo in the Fram Strait. Our analysis reveals a new mechanism whereby enhancing the albedo in the Fram Strait triggers a transition of the regional atmospheric dynamics to a negative Arctic Dipole Anomaly phase. This causes an Arctic-wide ice circulation regime, weakening Transpolar Drift and reducing Fram Strait ice export, leading to thickening of the multi-year ice pack. These findings advance our understanding of the key role that the Fram Strait plays in the Arctic climate and highlights a potential path to restoring Arctic sea ice.
Applicability of literature values for Green-Ampt parameters to account for infiltration in hydrodynamic rainfall-runoff simulations in ungauged basins
Authors: Tügel Franziska , Hassan Aziz , Hou Jingming , Hinkelmann Reinhard
Published: March 2021

This study aims to evaluate the suitability of literature parameter values for the Green-Ampt infiltration model to be used in hydrodynamic rainfall-runoff simulations. The outcome of this study supports to decide which literature values should be taken if observed data for model calibration is not available. Different laboratory experiments, a plot-scale experiment in the Thiès catchment in Senegal, and flash floods in the region of El Gouna in Egypt have been simulated with the 2D shallow water model Hydroinformatics Modeling System (hms) incorporating the Green-Ampt model. For four test cases with available runoff data, the results of the calibrated models were compared to those obtained from average values after Rawls et al. [54] and Innovyze [27]. The results showed a clear underestimation of infiltration in two of three considered laboratory experiments, while for a field experiment in Senegal, average values after Rawls et al. [54] led to a strong overestimation and the ones after Innovyze [27] to an underestimation of infiltration. In a case study on flash floods in an ungauged region in Egypt, the values of both sources led to a strong overestimation of infiltration, when the simulation results are compared to observed flooding areas. It can be concluded, that the values after Innovyze [27] lead to overall better results than the ones after Rawls et al. [54]. According to the results, the hydraulic conductivity in ungauged areas with bare sandy soil should be reduced by about 90–100 % compared to the value after Rawls et al. [54].
Identification of Microplastics in Conventional Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Adib Danial , Mafigholami Roya , Tabeshkia Hossein
Published: March 2021

The presence of microplastics (MPs), as an emerging pollutant is a growing concern in different water resources. These particles are recognized as less than 5 mm in size. Most of the studies have been carried out in surface waters and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), but there are few studies on MPs in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). This study investigates these particles in three different conventional DWTPs in the city of Tehran, Iran and aims to analyze these particles down to the size of 1 µm. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was utilized in this study to quantitatively analyze MPs. Accordingly, the average abundance of MPs in raw and treated water samples varied from 1996±268 to 2808±80 MPs L-1 and 971±103 to 1401±86 MPs L-1, respectively. While particles smaller than 10 µm comprised 65-87% of MPs. Moreover, µ-Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize MPs. As the results, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyethylene (PE) were the most abundant identified polymers among MPs comprising more than 53% of particles. Additionally, MPs were categorized as fibers, fragments and spheres. This study fills the knowledge gap of MPs presence in Tehran DWTPs which is of high importance since they supply drinking water for more than 8 million people and investigates the performance of conventional DWTPs in removing MPs.