bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soft Tissue Mass of Extremity: Investigation of MRI Diagnostic Strategy
Authors: Liang Yuying , Ma Liheng , Yang Ning , Hong Weifeng , Wu Zhen
Published: July 2020

The aim of the current study was to investigate the MR diagnostic approach of soft tissue masses of extremities to improve the diagnostic accuracy. MRI data of 58 patients with soft tissue masses of the extremities confirmed by postoperative pathology (PA) were collected. In order to
deepen the understanding of the MRI findings of soft tissue masses of the extremities, complete the diagnostic strategy and improve the diagnostic accuracy, the lesions were divided into cystic and non-cystic masses according to the characteristics of Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals,
the imaging features were analyzed to locate the lesions and the biochemical components within the lesions were accurately estimated, the imaging-pathological relationship was explored by comparing the histological findings of the study. The location of soft tissue masses was accurate in MRI,
including intramuscular, intermuscular, and subcutaneous. The characteristic biochemical components within the lesions estimated accurately in MRI included fat, mucus/protein, hemorrhage or hemosiderin, simple water, etc., which were basically consistent with pathological findings. MRI results
of cystic and non-cystic mass findings are consistent with pathology. There were 29 cases of cystic mass, the coincidence rate of MRI diagnosis was 27/29, 29 cases of non-cystic mass, the coincidence rate of MRI diagnosis was 24/29, and the total coincidence rate of MRI diagnosis was 51/58.
In the diagnosis of soft tissue masses of extremities, firstly, according to the range and adjacent relationship displayed clearly in MRI to locate the lesions, and then distinguishing the cystic and non-cystic lesions, determining the biochemical components of the lesions, and analyzing the
histological features can improve the diagnostic accuracy.
A New Parameterization of the Accretion of Cloud Water by Snow and Its Evaluation through Simulations of Mesoscale Convective Systems
Authors: Jin Han-Gyul , Baik Jong-Jin
Published: July 2020

A new parameterization of the accretion of cloud water by snow for use in bulk microphysics schemes is derived as an analytic approximation of the stochastic collection equation (SCE), where the theoretical collision efficiency for individual snowflake–cloud droplet pairs is applied. The snowflake shape is assumed to be nonspherical with the mass–size and area–size relations suggested by an observational study. The performance of the new parameterization is compared to two parameterizations based on the continuous collection equation, one with the spherical shape assumption for snowflakes (SPH-CON), and the other with the nonspherical shape assumption employed in the new parameterization (NSP-CON). In box model simulations, only the new parameterization reproduces a relatively slow decrease in the cloud droplet number concentration, which is predicted by the direct SCE solver. This results from considering the preferential collection of cloud droplets depending on their sizes in the new parameterization based on the SCE. In idealized squall-line simulations using a cloud-resolving model, the new parameterization predicts heavier precipitation in the convective core region compared to SPH-CON, and a broader area of the trailing stratiform rain compared to NSP-CON due to the horizontal advection of greater amount of snow in the upper layer. In the real-case simulations of a line-shaped mesoscale convective system that passed over the central Korean Peninsula, the new parameterization predicts higher frequencies of light precipitation rates and lower frequencies of heavy precipitation rates. The relatively large amount of upper-level snow in the new parameterization contributes to a broadening of the area with significant snow water path.
A Study of the Interaction between Typhoon Francisco (2013) and a Cold-Core Eddy. Part II: Boundary Layer Structures
Authors: Ma Zhanhong , Fei Jianfang , Huang Xiaogang , Cheng Xiaoping , Liu Lei
Published: July 2020

In Part II of this study, the influence of an oceanic cold-core eddy on the atmospheric boundary layer structures of Typhoon Francisco (2013) is investigated, as well as a comparison with the cold wake effect. Results show that the eddy induces shallower mixed-layer depth and forms stable boundary layer above and near it. The changes of these features shift from northwest to southeast across the storm eye, following the translation of Francisco over the eddy. Nonetheless, the decrease in mixed-layer depth and formation of stable boundary layer caused by the cold wake are located at right rear of the storm. The sensible heat fluxes at the lowest atmospheric model level are mostly downward over the sea surface cooling region. Due to their different relative locations with Francisco, the diabatic heating in the northwest quadrant of the storm can be more effectively inhibited by the cold-core eddy than by the cold wake. The asymmetric characteristics of surface tangential wind are less sensitive to sea surface cooling than those of surface radial wind, implying a change in surface inflow angle. Different from previous studies, the surface inflow angle is found to be reduced especially above the cold-core eddy and cold wake region. An analysis of radial wind tendency budget indicates that the decrease in radial pressure gradient is dominant in changing the acceleration rate of surface radial wind, rather than the decrease in the Coriolis and centrifugal forces, and therefore more outward surface flow is induced by both the cold-core eddy and cold wake.
Incorporation of Satellite Precipitation Uncertainty in a Landslide Hazard Nowcasting System
Authors: Hartke Samantha H. , Wright Daniel B. , Kirschbaum Dalia B. , Stanley Thomas A. , Li Zhe
Published: July 2020

Many existing models that predict landslide hazards utilize ground-based sources of precipitation data. In locations where ground-based precipitation observations are limited (i.e., a vast majority of the globe), or for landslide hazard models that assess regional or global domains, satellite multisensor precipitation products offer a promising near-real-time alternative to ground-based data. NASA’s global Landslide Hazard Assessment for Situational Awareness (LHASA) model uses the Integrated Multisatellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) product to issue hazard “nowcasts” in near–real time for areas that are currently at risk for landsliding. Satellite-based precipitation estimates, however, can contain considerable systematic bias and random error, especially over mountainous terrain and during extreme rainfall events. This study combines a precipitation error modeling framework with a probabilistic adaptation of LHASA. Compared with the routine version of LHASA, this probabilistic version correctly predicts more of the observed landslides in the study region with fewer false alarms by high hazard nowcasts. This study demonstrates that improvements in landslide hazard prediction can be achieved regardless of whether the IMERG error model is trained using abundant ground-based precipitation observations or using far fewer and more scattered observations, suggesting that the approach is viable in data-limited regions. Results emphasize the importance of accounting for both random error and systematic satellite precipitation bias. The approach provides an example of how environmental prediction models can incorporate satellite precipitation uncertainty. Other applications such as flood and drought monitoring and forecasting could likely benefit from consideration of precipitation uncertainty.
Feedbacks Driving Interdecadal Variability in Southern Ocean Convection in Climate Models: A Coupled Oscillator Mechanism
Authors: Gnanadesikan Anand , Speller Cassidy M. , Ringlein Grace , San Soucie John , Thomas Jordan , Pradal Marie-Aude
Published: July 2020

Numerous climate models display large-amplitude, long-period variability associated with quasiperiodic convection in the Southern Ocean, but the mechanisms responsible for producing such oscillatory convection are poorly understood. In this paper we identify three feedbacks that help generate such oscillations within an Earth system model with a particularly regular oscillation. The first feedback involves increased (decreased) upward mixing of warm interior water to the surface, resulting in more (less) evaporation and loss of heat to the atmosphere which produces more (less) mixing. This positive feedback helps explain why temperature anomalies are not damped out by surface forcing. A second key mechanism involves convective (nonconvective) events in the Weddell Sea causing a relaxation (intensification) of westerly winds, which at some later time results in a pattern of currents that reduces (increases) the advection of freshwater out of the Weddell Sea. This allows for the surface to become lighter (denser) which in turn can dampen (trigger) convection—so that the overall feedback is a negative one with a delay—helping to produce a multidecadal oscillation time scale. The decrease (increase) in winds associated with convective (nonconvective) states also results in a decrease (increase) in the upward mixing of salt in the Eastern Weddell Sea, creating a negative (positive) salinity anomaly that propagates into the Western Weddell Sea and dampens (triggers) convection—again producing a negative feedback with a delay. A principal oscillatory pattern analysis yields a reasonable prediction for the period of oscillation. Strengths of the feedbacks are sensitive to parameterization of mesoscale eddies.
Who Is Community Engagement For?: The Endless Loop of Democratic Transparency
Authors: Lee Caroline W.
Published: July 2020

This article approaches college and university community engagement as a publicity practice responding to complex pressures in the U.S. higher education field. Democracy initiatives in American academia encompass a range of civic activities in communities near and far, but the forces driving their production are decidedly nonlocal and top-down. Good intentions are no longer enough for colleges and universities facing crises on a number of fronts. Today’s community collaborations must be intensive, reciprocal, deliberative, and appreciative. This mission of democratic transparency pursued by institutions involves extensive efforts to certify civic empowerment for public audiences and funders, trade and professional associations, state legislatures, and federal regulators. A promotional perspective on community engagement in higher education shifts attention from the authentic grassroots transformations that are its putative focus to the larger processes driving this activity and its outcomes: not least, the pursuit of legitimacy through increasingly elaborate self-assessment strategies. This endless loop—and its demands that engagement be ever more democratic and transparent, in its practice and in its evaluation—demonstrates not only the reach of promotional transparency, but its characteristic shape and reflexive organizational routines.
High-Performance Trauma Centers in a Single-State Trauma System
Authors: Hatchimonji Justin S. , Kaufman Elinore J. , Young Andrew J. , Smith Brian P. , Xiong Ruiying , Reilly Patrick M. , Holena Daniel N.
Published: July 2020

Background

Trauma centers with low observed:expected (O:E) mortality ratios are considered high performers; however, it is unknown whether improvements in this ratio are due to a small number of unexpected survivors with high mortality risk (big saves) or a larger number of unexpected survivors with moderate mortality risk (marginal gains). We hypothesized that the highest-performing centers achieve that status via larger numbers of unexpected survivors with moderate mortality risk.

Methods

We calculated O:E ratios for trauma centers in Pennsylvania for 2016 using a risk-adjusted mortality model. We identified high and low performers as centers whose 95% CIs did not cross 1. We visualized differences between these centers by plotting patient-level observed and expected mortality; we then examined differences in a subset of patients with a predicted mortality of ≥10% using the chi-squared test.

Results

One high performer and 1 low performer were identified. The high performer managed a population with more blunt injuries (97.2% vs 93.6%, P < .001) and a higher median Injury Severity Score (14 vs 11, P < .001). There was no difference in survival between these centers in patients with an expected mortality of <10% (98.0% vs 96.7%, P = .11) or ≥70% (23.5% vs 10.8%, P = .22), but there was a difference in the subset with an expected mortality of ≥10% (77.5% vs 43.1%, P < .001).

Conclusions

Though patients with very low predicted mortality do equally well in high-performing and low-performing centers, the fact that performance seems determined by outcomes of patients with moderate predicted mortality favors a “marginal gains” theory.
Triage of Patients With Rib Fractures
Authors: Leichtle Stefan W. , Pendleton Audrey , Wang Sarah , Torres Beth , Collins Rachel , Aboutanos Michel B.
Published: July 2020

Background

Most triage guidelines for blunt chest wall trauma focus on advanced age and multiple fractured ribs to indicate a high-risk patient population that should be admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Overly sensitive ICU admission criteria, however, may result in overutilization of resources. We revised our rib fracture triage guideline to de-emphasize age and number of rib fractures, hypothesizing that we could lower ICU admission rates without compromising outcomes.

Methods

Patients admitted to our level 1 trauma center over 9 months after the institution of the revised guideline (N = 248) were compared with those admitted over 6 months following the original guideline (N = 207) using Fisher’s exact and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, as appropriate. Univariate followed by multivariate analyses were performed to determine risk factors for complications.

Results

The ICU admission rate significantly decreased from 73% to 63% ( P = .02) after the institution of the revised guideline, despite an increase in the patient’s age and injury acuity of the cohort. There was no significant difference in respiratory complications, unplanned ICU admission rates, and overall mortality. Poor incentive spirometer effort (750 mL or less) and dyspnea in the trauma bay were the strongest predictors of an adverse composite outcome and prolonged hospital length of stay.

Discussion

A revised rib fracture triage guideline with less emphasis on the patient’s age and the number of fractured ribs safely lowered ICU admission rates. Poor functional status rather than age and anatomy was the strongest predictor of complications and prolonged hospital stay.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Álvaro-Afonso Francisco Javier , Sanz-Corbalán Irene , Lázaro-Martínez José Luis , Kakagia Despoina , Papanas Nikolaos
Published: July 2020

This review provides an outline of the use of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). A systematic search of PubMed and the Cochrane database was performed on October 2, 2019. Eighteen studies were identified (14 preclinical and 4 clinical). Studies in animal models have demonstrated that AMSCs enhance diabetic wound healing, accelerate granulation tissue formation, and increase reepithelialization and neovascularization. Only 1 randomized control trial has been published so far. Patients (n = 25) with DFUs were treated using an allogeneic AMSC directly on the wound bed as a primary dressing, and improvements were found in complete wound closure in the treatment group (n = 16). Three clinical studies showed that autologous AMSC might be a safe alternative to achieve therapeutic angiogenesis in patients with diabetes and peripheral arterial disease. Based on the available evidence, AMSCs hold promise in the treatment of DFUs. However, this evidence requires confirmation by well-designed trials. Additional studies are also required to understand some issues regarding this treatment for DFUs. For example, the potential application of autologous or allogeneic AMSCs in different types of DFUs, optimal dose/infusion schedules, safety evaluations, and cost-effectiveness.
In-group trust and self-rated health in East Asia using quadri-national survey data
Authors: Sung Pildoo , Son Joonmo
Published: July 2020

This study aims to examine the relationship between types of interpersonal trust and health in East Asia. We doubt that generalized trust toward “most people” is a valid and reliable measure of interpersonal trust in East Asia. We thus employ specific measures of in-group and out-group trust to test whether and how each type of trust is associated with self-rated health. We use data from the 2012 East Asian Social Survey administered in China ( n = 5819), Japan ( n = 2335), South Korea ( n = 1396), and Taiwan ( n = 2314) with response rates of 71%, 59%, 56%, and 52%, respectively. Empirical test produces three major findings. First, in-group trust is consistently associated with self-rated health in all four countries, whereas out-group trust is related to health only in Taiwan. By contrast, generalized trust is related to health only in Korea. Second, perceived social support mediates partially of the relationship between in-group trust and self-rated health in China, Japan, and Taiwan. Third, the health benefit of in-group trust is more pronounced in Korea than in China. This study thus calls for the need to use measures of specific types of trust because they are more sensitive in detecting both international and intra-regional variations of health.
From the perspective of information leakage risk life cycle: Research on high-tech enterprise counter intelligence mechanism model
Authors: Bo Yang , Yiming Liao
Published: July 2020

In order to reduce the harm of High-tech enterprise information leakage, solve the risk management problem of information leakage, and provide reference for High-tech enterprises to deal with information leakage. This paper systematically discusses the counter intelligence flow and counter intelligence work process from the perspective of information leakage risk life cycle by using literature research and theoretical deduction method, and constructs a corporate counter intelligence mechanism model based on information leakage risk life cycle. This study believes that counter intelligence can provide information support for information leakage risk management at various stages of the risk life cycle, and effectively improve the efficiency of information leakage risk management, and also provide a knowledge service model and empirical research for enterprise information leakage risk management in the future, theoretical basis and new research perspectives and ideas. On the basis of this research, in order to further improve the validity of the model, the evolutionary game simulation and empirical research will be used to verify the model to enhance the practical significance of guiding enterprise information leakage risk management.
Mental health in biological disasters: From SARS to COVID-19
Authors: Hsieh Kuan-Ying , Kao Wei-Tsung , Li Dian-Jeng , Lu Wan-Chun , Tsai Kuan-Yi , Chen Wei-Jen , Chou Li-Shiu , Huang Joh-Jong , Hsu Su-Ting , Chou Frank Huang-Chih
Published: July 2020

Background:

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), provokes fear, anxiety and depression in the public, which further affects mental health issues. Taiwan has used their experience of the SARS epidemic for the management of foreseeable problems in COVID-19 endemic.

Aim/Objective:

This review summarizes issues concerning mental health problems related to infectious diseases from current literatures.

Results:

In suspected cases under quarantine, confirmed cases in isolation and their families, health care professionals, and the general population and related effective strategies to reduce these mental health issues, such as helping to identify stressors and normalizing their impact at all levels of response as well as public information and communication messages by electronic devices. The importance of community resilience was also addressed. Psychological first aid, psychological debriefing, mental health intervention and psychoeducation were also discussed. Issues concerning cultures and religions are also emphasized in the management plans.

Conclusion:

Biological disaster like SARS and COVID-19 not only has strong impact on mental health in those being infected and their family, friends, and coworkers, but also affect wellbeing in general public. There are evidenced that clear and timely psychoeducation, psychological first aid and psychological debriefing could amileorate negative impact of disaster, thus might also be helpful amid COVID-19 pandemic.
Development of magnesium-based hybrid metal matrix composite through in situ micro, nano reinforcements
Authors: Singh Harprabhjot , Kumar Deepak , Singh Harpreet
Published: July 2020

Present work aims at developing Magnesium based metal matrix composite (MMC) through in-situ reaction. In-situ generation of micro and nano particles in the Mg-melt is supposed to have a better bonding with the matrix. Ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) is added to initial Magnesium melt (with an aim to generate CeO2 and MgO through in-situ reaction) at temperatures of 670 °C and 870 °C. The developed MMCs are solution treated to get rid of intermetallic. The nature of particles is explored with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS). The morphology and sizes of particles are keenly jotted using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Mechanical responses of developed MMCs are recorded through Hardness, Compression and scratch tests. The compression fractured surfaces are analyzed with SEM and scratched samples are analyzed on 3 D optical profilometer to explore deformation behavior. The observations indicate the in-situ formation of CeO2, MgO and CeMg12 intermetallic phases in different types and sizes. Further, these particles are responsible for improved mechanical properties. The findings are supported by the contribution of different strengthening mechanisms.
Mechanical analysis of functionalized MWCNTs reinforced biresin CR82 epoxy nanocomposite materials
Authors: Alawy Alaa , Abdlghany Mohamed , Wafy Tamer Z , Hassan Ahmed
Published: July 2020

Carbon nanotubes are viewed as one of the stiffest and strongest designing materials accessible, having high ultimate strength and modulus of elasticity more than any conventional materials. A new epoxy resin material called (Biresin CR82) was utilized as a matrix in manufacturing nanocomposites reinforced by carboxylic Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). A novel experimental setup was carried out with specified steps under certain conditions to achieve suitable mixing techniques for the different content of MWCNTs, using ultrasonication technology as the main mixing technique. This paper concerned about the mechanical properties of the generating MWCNT/epoxy composite materials with different loading ratios. The main objective was about how to get maximum benefit from low weight percentage of MWCNTs dispersed homogeneously in the matrix. Therefore, mechanical tests were carried out to determine the effect of nano-particles on the quality and strength of the composites. The mechanical test results demonstrated the highest enhancement at 0.2 wt. % of COOH-MWCNTs in the ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and impact energy by 41%, 22%, and 45% respectively. In addition to improving the shore hardness values at D scale with an increase in the weight percentage of MWCNTs, and the highest value showed at 0.2 wt. %. The Halpin Tsai equations were utilized to obtain theoretical modeling which gives a great indication with the tensile experimental results acquired. The microstructure of the fracture tensile sample was assigned by scanning electron microscopy.
Service Learning in an Urban Context: Pedagogy for Nurturing Empathy and Moral Development
Authors: Leung Barbara Y. P. , Yung Betty
Published: July 2020

The article proposes the 4-Es (namely Exposure, Explanation, Experience, and Evaluation) pedagogical model in empathy building that can facilitate moral development in students. This research reveals that the 4-Es pedagogy, which has been adopted in a university’s service-learning course to study the living conditions of disadvantaged residents in urban Hong Kong, is largely effective as most students have expressed positive comments from their reflective journals and the pre- and post-program evaluation. Yet the actual efficacy is mediated by a number of factors which include the past experience of the students and the learning motivation.
All-in-one fibrous capacitive humidity sensor for human breath monitoring
Authors: Ma Liyun , Wu Ronghui , Miao Hao , Fan Xuwei , Kong Lingqing , Patil Aniruddha , Liu Xiang Yang , Wang Jun
Published: July 2020

Accurate and quick monitoring of an individual's respiration signals plays an important role in health monitoring and disease diagnosis. Electronic fabrics are the best candidates for detecting human signals through a non-invasive pathway. Inspired by the potential and attractive applications of fiber-shape electronics in smart and wearable e-textiles, here we developed an all-in-one fibrous capacitive humidity sensor. The fibrous sensor is prepared using a domestic winding fabrication facility and sputtering technique. Analysis of the exact morphology and elemental details of the fibrous sensor was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectrometry. Moreover, the frequency characteristic of the sensor is studied, and exhibits an increasing sensitivity with the decrease of testing frequency. The fabricated humidity sensor exhibited good repeatability and responsiveness performance under the 5 kHz frequency. In addition, the fibrous structure of the sensor makes it appropriate to be integrated into a fabric such as smart mask, which can be used to monitor breathing information and also to provide alarm signals.
Water and Violence Against Dalits in Maharashtra: A Multi-case Approach
Authors: Adagale Raju
Published: July 2020

Water is one of the most vital resources required for human existence. Yet access to this natural resource has not been easy, especially for dalits living in rural India. There have been numerous violent incidents that have been perpetrated against dalits, ranging from verbal to physical abuse and sometimes even ending in murder when this under-privileged community has asserted its right to water. A multi-case study method has been used in selected villages located in Beed district of Maharashtra to examine the various forms of violence that have been employed to prevent dalits from accessing water. Most have occurred because upper caste Hindus believe that since the so-called ‘impure’ dalits in villages pollute water therefore it should be denied to them. The study concludes with B. R. Ambedkar’s views on accessing water on the principle of social justice, equality and human rights.
UK primary care survey of venous leg ulceration management and referral – Post-EVRA trial
Authors: Heatley Francine , Saghdaoui Layla B , Salim Safa , Onida Sarah , Gohel Manj S , Davies Alun H
Published: July 2020

Objective

Determine standards of referral and management of patients with venous leg ulceration in primary care after the release of the EVRA (A Randomized Trial of Early Endovenous Ablation in Venous Ulceration) study results.

Methods

An online questionnaire was disseminated over four months to professionals working within primary care.

Results

The survey received 643 responses. Of respondents, 90 (14%) had heard of the EVRA trial and 51 (8%) were familiar with the results. Of those who answered the following questions, 410 (69.1%) stated that referral to a vascular specialist must be made by the General Practitioner and 13 (2.2%) reported that they would always refer patients for secondary care assessment before the publication of EVRA. Considering the EVRA results, 128 (29%) reported that they would change practice regarding referral and would experience no barriers and 198 (45%) reported that they would like to refer earlier but is not their decision. Barriers to changing practice included local referral policies, training and time restrictions, 266 (59%) had heard of the NICE guideline (CG168) and 194 (43%) were aware of the recommendations for referral to a vascular service within two weeks for patients with an open or healed ulcer.

Conclusion

There is a considerable variation in local referral pathways for venous leg ulceration, and despite clinicians wanting to refer promptly, many primary care professionals are unable to. Unfortunately, the EVRA study alone may not change the overall practice, and work is needed to overcome barriers faced by primary care professionals.
Comparison of the effects of the Feldenkrais method versus core stability exercise in the management of chronic low back pain: a randomised control trial
Authors: Ahmadi Hanieh , Adib Hanieh , Selk-Ghaffari Maryam , Shafizad Misagh , Moradi Siavash , Madani Zahra , Partovi Gholamreza , Mahmoodi Aliakbar
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To investigate the effect of the Feldenkrais method versus core stability exercises on pain, disability, quality of life and interoceptive awareness in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Design:

A single-blinded, randomised, controlled trial.

Setting:

Outpatient, sports medicine clinic of Mazandaran medical university.

Participants:

Sixty patients with chronic non-specific low back pain randomised equally into the Feldenkrais method versus core stability exercises groups.

Intervention:

Intervention group received Feldenkrais method consisting of training theoretical content and supervised exercise therapy two sessions per week for five weeks. Control group received educational programme and home-based core stability exercises for five weeks.

Outcome measures:

All patients were examined by World Health Organization’s Quality of life Questionnaire, McGill Pain Questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Questionnaire and Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness Questionnaire. All outcomes were measured at baseline and the end of the intervention

Results:

There were statistically significant differences between groups for quality of life ( P = 0.006, from 45.51 to 60.49), interoceptive awareness ( P > 0.001, from 2.74 to 4.06) and disability ( P = 0.021, from 27.17 to 14.5) in favour of the Feldenkrais method. McGill pain score significantly decreased in both the Feldenkrais (from 15.33 to 3.63) and control groups (from 13.17 to 4.17), but there were no between-groups differences ( P = 0.16).

Conclusion:

Feldenkrais method intervention gave increased benefits in improving quality of life, improving interoceptive awareness and reducing disability index.
Can Technology Work for Policing? Citizen Perceptions of Police-Body Worn Cameras
Authors: Wright James E. , Headley Andrea M.
Published: July 2020

Recent incidents between police and people of color have further strained police–community relationships. Scholars, practitioners, activists, policy makers, and several police departments have advocated for the implementation of body-worn cameras (BWC), a technological adoption promoted to address growing mistrust in the United States. This article examines perception of this technological adoption through 40 in-depth interviews in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, this article uses the context of police BWC to explore how the integration of technological advancements impacts the relationships between communities and local governments—namely police departments. The evidence suggests that residents believe BWC should improve officer behavior and increase police legitimacy, but cameras will not increase trust between police and the community. Based on the findings, this research identifies the limitations of BWC technology and assesses potential collaborative strategies available for police organizations related to the adoption and use of BWC.
The transluminal attenuation gradient does not add diagnostic accuracy to coronary computed tomography
Authors: Henriksson Lilian , Woisetschläger Mischa , Alfredsson Joakim , Janzon Magnus , Ebbers Tino , Engvall Jan , Persson Anders
Published: July 2020

Background

A method for improving the accuracy of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is highly sought after as it would help to avoid unnecessary invasive coronary angiographies. Measurement of the transluminal attenuation gradient (TAG) has been proposed as an alternative to other existing methods, i.e. CT perfusion and CT fractional flow reserve (FFR).

Purpose

To evaluate the incremental value of three types of TAG in high-pitch spiral CCTA with invasive FFR measurements as reference.

Material and Methods

TAG was measured using two semi-automatic methods and one manual method. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was made to determine the usefulness of TAG alone as well as TAG combined with CCTA for detection of significant coronary artery stenoses defined by an invasive FFR value ≤0.80.

Results

A total of 51 coronary vessels in 37 patients were included in this retrospective study. Hemodynamically significant stenoses were found in 13 vessels according to FFR. The ROC analysis TAG alone resulted in areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.530 and 0.520 for the semi-automatic TAG and 0.557 for the manual TAG. TAG and CCTA combined resulted in AUCs of 0.567, 0.562 for semi-automatic TAG, and 0.569 for the manual TAG.

Conclusion

The results from our study showed no incremental value of TAG measured in single heartbeat CCTA in determining the severity of coronary artery stenosis degrees.
The value of combined positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease: a prospective study
Authors: Tenhami Mervi , Virtanen Johanna , Kauhanen Saila , Koffert Jukka , Kemppainen Jukka , Saunavaara Virva , Kujari Harry , Hurme Saija , Teperi Simo , Voutilainen Markku
Published: July 2020

Background

The clinical utility of positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) in comparison to standard work-up with patients with known or suspected inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is unknown.

Purpose

To evaluate the value of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/MRI in the diagnostics of IBD and further compare the data obtained using PET/MRI to histological findings.

Materials and Methods

Ten patients with relapse in IBD or with symptoms of suspected IBD were recruited either from a gastroenterology outpatient clinic or from a hospital ward. Intestinal inflammation was assessed with histology and 18F-FDG PET/MRI. Maximum standard uptake values (SUVmax) were calculated in six regions of the intestine (small bowel, ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid colon, and rectum) and compared to histological analysis of inflammation activity.

Results

The study showed that both the inflammation activity ( P = 0.008) and the region of the biopsy in the intestine ( P = 0.015) had a significant effect on SUV. SUVs obtained from severe inflammation activity emerged significantly from the background ( P = 0.006). In addition, the SUVs obtained from moderate inflammation raised from background, but the difference was not statistically significant ( P = 0.083), while SUVs of mild inflammation were at the same level with SUVs of normal bowel wall ( P = 0.988).

Conclusion

18F-FDG PET/MRI is a promising method of detecting especially severe inflammatory bowel lesions. More data are required to define its sensitivity and specificity.
Preliminary analysis of interaction of the fat fraction in the sacroiliac joint among sex, age, and body mass index in a normal Chinese population
Authors: Ning Qiuping , Fan Tiebing , Tang Jinyang , Han Shuhua , Wang Wensheng , Ren Hua , Wang Haiyi , Ye Huiyi
Published: July 2020

Objective

Iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation-iron quantification (IDEAL-IQ) is a noninvasive and objective method used to quantitatively measure fat content. Although this technique has been used in the entire abdomen, IDEAL-IQ findings in the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) have rarely been reported. This preclinical study was performed to quantify the amount of fat in the SIJ in healthy volunteers by IDEAL-IQ.

Methods

From April to November 2017, 60 healthy volunteers with low back pain were included in this retrospective study. The participants were allocated into groups by age (15–30, 31–50, and ≥51 years), sex (male and female), and body mass index (BMI) (<18.5, 18.5–23.9, and ≥24.0 kg/m2). The iliac-side (Fi) and sacral-side (Fs) fat fractions were obtained in all groups. Two- and three-factor multivariate analyses were performed to analyze the effects of sex, age, and BMI on the Fi and Fs.

Results

The interaction among sex, age, and BMI had no statistically significant effect on the dependent variable. Both Fi and Fs were significantly influenced by age. Fs was significantly influenced by sex.

Conclusion

The IDEAL-IQ sequence can be used to quantitatively assess the SIJ fat content in healthy volunteers.
Low plasma levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide in persistent post-traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ashina Håkan , Al-Khazali Haidar Muhsen , Iljazi Afrim , Ashina Sait , Jørgensen Niklas Rye , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Ashina Messoud , Schytz Henrik Winther
Published: July 2020

Objective

To investigate the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in persistent post-traumatic headache (PTH) attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

A total of 100 individuals with persistent PTH attributed to mild TBI and 100 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled between July 2018 and June 2019. Blood was drawn from the antecubital vein and subsequently analyzed using a validated radioimmunoassay for human CGRP. Measurements were performed on coded samples by a board-certified laboratory technician who was blind to clinical information.

Results

CGRP plasma levels were lower in subjects with persistent PTH (mean, 75.8 pmol/L; SD, 26.4 pmol/L), compared with age- and gender-matched healthy controls (mean, 88.0 pmol/L; SD, 34.1 pmol/L) ( p = 0.04). No correlation was found of CGRP plasma levels with monthly headache days ( r = −0.11; p = 0.27), monthly migraine-like days ( r = 0.15; p = 0.13), headache quality ( r = −0.14; p = 0.15), or a chronic migraine-like headache phenotype ( r = −0.02; p = 0.85).

Conclusions

CGRP plasma measurements are unlikely a feasible blood-based biomarker of persistent PTH. Future studies should assess whether CGRP plasma measurements can be used to predict development of persistent PTH.
Neurophysiological and biomolecular effects of erenumab in chronic migraine: An open label study
Authors: De Icco Roberto , Fiamingo Giuseppe , Greco Rosaria , Bottiroli Sara , Demartini Chiara , Zanaboni Anna Maria , Allena Marta , Guaschino Elena , Martinelli Daniele , Putortì Alessia , Grillo Valentina , Sances Grazia , Tassorelli Cristina
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide antibodies proved effective in the preventive treatment of chronic migraine. In this open label study, we aim to assess the effects of erenumab administration on neurophysiological and biomolecular profiles in a representative cohort of chronic migraine patients.

Methods

Forty patients with a history of chronic migraine for at least 12 months prior to enrollment, and previous failure of at least two different preventive therapies, were enrolled. After a 1-month observation period (T0), patients were treated with erenumab 70 mg s.c. (every 28 days) for a total of three administrations. At week 12, they returned for the end-of-protocol visit (T3). At T0 and T3, patients underwent recording of clinical features, recording of single stimulus (RTh), temporal summation (TST) thresholds of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex, venous blood sampling for miR-382-5p, and miR-34a-5p quantification.

Results

At T3, 31 patients (77.5%) qualified as 30% Responders (reduction in monthly migraine days by at least 30% in the last 4-week observation period). RTh (T0: 15.4 ± 8.1 mA, T3: 19.7 ± 8.2 mA) as well as TST (T0: 11.2 ± 5.8 mA, T3: 13.4 ± 5.0 mA) significantly increased at T3 in 30% Responders ( p = 0.001 for both), while we did not observe significant changes in NON-responder patients. MiR-382-5p and miR-34a-5p levels were significantly lower after erenumab administration in the overall study population ( p = 0.015, and p = 0.001, respectively), without significant differences between 30% Responder and NON-responder groups.

Conclusions

Different migraine phenotypes, characterized by different treatment susceptibility, may exist as suggested by the divergent behavior between neurophysiological and biomolecular findings in 30% Responder vs. NON-responder patients. The study protocol was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04361721).
Exploring the Effectiveness and Moderators of Block-Based Visual Programming on Student Learning: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hu Yue , Chen Cheng-Huan , Su Chien-Yuan
Published: July 2020

Block-based visual programming tools, such as Scratch, Alice, and MIT App Inventor, provide an intuitive and easy-to-use editing interface through which to promote programming learning for novice students of various ages. However, very little attention has been paid to investigating these tools’ overall effects on students’ academic achievement and the study features that may moderate the effects of block-based visual programming from a comprehensive perspective. Thus, the present study carried out a meta-analysis to systemically examine 29 empirical studies (extracting 34 effect sizes) using experimental or quasi-experiments involving the programming learning effects of employing block-based visual programming tools to date (until the end of 2019). The results showed a small to medium significant positive overall mean effect size (fixed-effect model g = 0.37; random-effects model g = 0.47) of the use of these block-based visual programming tools with respect to students’ academic achievement. Furthermore, the overall mean effect size was significantly affected by the educational stage, programming tool used, experimental treatment, and school location. Discussions and implications based on the findings are provided.
Economic Empowerment and Tolerance of Domestic Violence Among Married Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Eze-Ajoku Ezinne , Fakeye Oludolapo , Atanda Adejare , Sosina Olukayode A.
Published: July 2020

We evaluated whether markers of economic empowerment are associated with a tolerant attitude toward spousal physical violence (SPV) among employed married women in Nigeria. Cross-sectional analyses of responses to the 2013 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey by a nationally representative sample of 3,999 women aged 15 to 49 years who reported being employed and married. Tolerance for SPV was defined as supporting statements with justifications for wife-beating. Logistic regression assessed the associations of reporting tolerance for SPV with educational attainment and interspousal equivalency in income, controlling for previous exposure to domestic abuse. The prevalence of tolerance for SPV among the sample was 37%. Women with tertiary education had lower odds of tolerance for SPV relative to their counterparts without formal education (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.12, 0.40], p < .0001). Compared with women with similar income levels as their partners, women who either earned more (aOR = 2.77, 95% CI = [1.36, 5.62], p = .005) or earned less income relative to their spouses (aOR = 1.93, 95% CI = [1.14, 3.26], p = .02) had higher odds of tolerance for SPV. Odds of tolerance for SPV were also higher among women reporting previous spousal abuse than among their counterparts without such a history (aOR = 1.55, 95% CI = [1.14, 2.12], p = .006). A history of nonspousal abuse was associated with lower odds of tolerance for SPV (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI = [0.37, 0.84], p = .005). Lower educational attainment and interspousal differences in income may contribute to tolerance of SPV. Efforts to increase economic empowerment should be combined with education to recognize cultural norms that foster SPV and build skills to exit violent relationships.
Sexual Violence Experience Among Nigerian Girls and Young Women: What Are the Roles of Early Sexual Debut, Multiple Sex Partnerships, and Traditional Gender Role Beliefs?
Authors: De Veauuse Brown Natasha F. , Annor Francis B. , Swahn Monica H. , Self-Brown Shannon R.
Published: July 2020

In Nigeria, one in four females has experienced some form of sexual abuse. Therefore, it is imperative to examine risk factors associated with sexual violence victimization of Nigerian girls and young women to identify targets for prevention and help stakeholders prioritize response efforts. The present article focuses on secondary data analyses of 1,766 females, aged 13 to 24, interviewed in the population-based 2014 Nigeria Violence Against Children Survey. The outcome of interest is lifetime sexual violence (LSV). Several potential predictors were explored: beliefs about gender roles related to sex, early sexual debut (aged <16 years), and multiple sex partners in the past 12 months. Other risk factors assessed were age, ethnicity, religion, education, marital status, and employment. Logistic regression analyses estimated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results revealed that females who endorsed beliefs about patriarchal sexual decision-making (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI = [1.28, 3.32]) or ever attended school (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = [1.35, 4.34]) were more likely to report experiencing LSV. Prevention programs that target traditional norm beliefs about gender and sexuality have the potential to influence sexual violence in Nigeria. In addition, school attendance may expose females to potential perpetrators. Thus, to prevent sexual violence of girls who attend school, implementing safety measures may be beneficial for protecting them while in and traveling to/from school.
Playing the Law: The Attitude of Polish Dissidents towards Post-Stalinist and International Law before the Period of Solidarity
Authors: Kuisz Jarosław
Published: July 2020

This article shows how dissidents in the latter half of the 1970s “played the law” in the Polish People’s Republic. Laws established by an undemocratic government, and thus theoretically lacking democratic legitimacy, were used by the opposition to delegitimize the government. The author describes the goals of the opposition and the lines of argument it employed, and how the Communist party—the other player in this peculiar game—made reciprocal efforts to exploit the law in order to weaken the opposition. The article discusses the specific international and Polish legal documents referenced by both sides of this game—the opposition and the government. The law was an important resource for both sides. This analysis nuances and demythologizes popular claims about the “Helsinki effect” by illustrating the role and legal context of the Helsinki Accords against the backdrop of local laws and the strategies undertaken by both actors. Furthermore, it describes the important institutional setting that influenced the types of actions undertaken by the protest movement in communist Poland.