bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration of the linear response range of x-ray imaging plates and their reader based on image grayscale values
Authors: Ren Kuan , Xu Tao , Zheng Jianhua , Dong Jianjun , Wei Minxi , Li Chaoguang , Cao Zhurong , Du Huabing , Yan Ji , Yang Guohong , Yi Rongqing , Zhang Jiyan , Huang Tianxuan , Liu Shenye , Wang Feng , Yang Zhiwen , Li Jin , Chen Yaohua , Lan Ke , Ren Guoli , Liu Jie , Ding Yongkun , Jiang Shaoen
Published: August 2017

X-ray imaging plates are one of the most important X-ray imaging detectors and are widely used in inertial-confinement fusion experiments. However, their linear response range, which is the foundation of their quantitative data analysis, has not been sufficiently deeply investigated. In this work, we develop an X-ray fluorescer calibration system and carefully explore the linear response range of X-ray imaging plates. For the first time, nearly the entire grayscale range of the X-ray imaging plate linear response—7819–64 879 in the range of 0–65 535—has been observed. Further, we discuss the uncertainties involved in the calibration process. This work demonstrates the excellent linear response qualities of X-ray imaging plates and provides a significant foundation for expanding their quantitative applied range.
Electric-field-induced lattice distortion in epitaxial BiFeO3 thin films as determined by in situ time-resolved x-ray diffraction
Authors: Nakashima Seiji , Sakata Osami , Funakubo Hiroshi , Shimizu Takao , Ichinose Daichi , Takayama Kota , Imai Yasuhiko , Fujisawa Hironori , Shimizu Masaru
Published: August 2017

Time-resolved X-ray diffraction (XRD) with synchrotron radiation while applying continuous voltage pulses was employed to investigate the electric-field-induced lattice distortion of an epitaxial BiFeO3 (BFO) thin film in a Pt/BFO (1 μm)/SrRuO3 (50 nm)/vicinal SrTiO3 (001) structure. XRD-reciprocal space maps based on the BFO 003, 114, and 11¯4 diffraction spots with and without the application of +15 V (150 kV/cm) to the capacitor demonstrated simultaneous electric-field-induced lattice distortion and crystallographic rotation in the BFO thin film. In response to the application of +15 V, the BFO lattice elongated by 0.08% along the [001]BFO direction and compressed by 0.05% along the [110]BFO direction. In addition, the BFO crystals were rotated by 0.01° along the [1¯1¯0]STO direction as a result of electric-field-induced lattice distortion under epitaxial strain along the vertical direction at the step edges of the vicinal substrate.
Responses of Dendronephthya australis to predation by Dermatobranchus sp. nudibranchs
Authors: Davis Tom R. , Harasti David , Smith Stephen D. A.
Published: August 2017

The soft coral Dendronephthya australis occurs only in large abundance within the tidal-dominated Port Stephens estuary in eastern Australia. In recent years, substantial declines in the spatial extent of D. australis within Port Stephens has led to calls for the species to be listed as ‘threatened’. The causes for these declines are likely to include a range of anthropogenic impacts, as well as natural effects such as predation by the nudibranch Dermatobranchus sp., which can be abundant in winter and spring. The responses of D. australis to the presence of Dermatobranchus sp. were studied at two sites in Port Stephens, using time-lapse and still photography combined with visual surveys. Dermatobranchus sp. was observed consuming D. australis polyps, and colony inflation and polyp expansion were both reduced when Dermatobranchus sp. was present. Although predation by Dermatobranchus sp. is a natural impact, our observations suggest that interactions with additional anthropogenic stressors may exacerbate its overall impact on the spatial extent and survival of the geographically restricted soft coral D. australis.
Oral propylene glycol modifies follicular fluid and gene expression profiles in cumulus–oocyte complexes and embryos in feed-restricted heifers
Authors: Gamarra G. , Ponsart C. , Lacaze S. , Nuttinck F. , Cordova A. , Mermillod P. , Marquant-Le Guienne B. , Monniaux D. , Humblot P. , Ponter A. A.
Published: August 2017

Dietary supplementation with propylene glycol (PG) increases in vitro production of high-quality embryos in feed-restricted heifers. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of PG in feed-restricted heifers on follicular fluid insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) 1 concentrations, expression of IGF system genes in oocytes and cumulus cells and the expression of selected genes in blastocysts. Feed-restricted (R) heifers were drenched with water or PG during induced oestrous cycles (400 mL of PG or water/drench, daily drenching at 1600 hours for the first 9 days of the oestrous cycle). Ovum pick-up (OPU) was performed after superovulation to produce in vitro embryos and without superovulation to recover oocytes, cumulus cells and follicular fluid. OPU was also performed in a control group (not feed restricted and no drenching). Follicular fluid IGF1 concentrations were reduced by R, and PG restored IGF1 concentrations to those seen in the control group. In cumulus cells, expression of IGF1, IGF1 receptor (IGF1R) and IGF binding protein 4 (IGFBP4) was decreased in the R group, and fully (IGF1 and IGF1R) or partially (IGFBP4) restored to control levels by PG. Blastocyst perilipin 2 (PLIN2; also known as adipophilin), Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX), SCL2A1 (facilitated glucose/fructose transporter GLUT1), aquaporin 3 (AQP3), DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) and heat shock 70-kDa protein 9 (HSPA9B) expression were decreased in R heifers; PG restored the expression of the last four genes to control levels. In conclusion, these results suggest that, during follicular growth, PG exerts epigenetic regulatory effects on gene expression in blastocyst stage embryos.
Epidemiology of gender dysphoria and transgender identity
Authors: Zucker Kenneth J.
Published: August 2017

This review provides an update on the epidemiology of gender dysphoria and transgender identity in children, adolescents and adults. Although the prevalence of gender dysphoria, as it is operationalised in the fifth edtion of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), remains a relatively ‘rare’ or ‘uncommon’ diagnosis, there is evidence that it has increased in the past couple of decades, perhaps reflected in the large increase in referral rates to specialised gender identity clinics. In childhood, the sex ratio continues to favour birth-assigned males, but in adolescents, there has been a recent inversion in the sex ratio from one favouring birth-assigned males to one favouring birth-assigned females. In both adolescents and adults, patterns of sexual orientation vary as a function of birth-assigned sex. Recent studies suggest that the prevalence of a self-reported transgender identity in children, adolescents and adults ranges from 0.5 to 1.3%, markedly higher than prevalence rates based on clinic-referred samples of adults. The stability of a self-reported transgender identity or a gender identity that departs from the traditional male–female binary among non-clinic-based populations remains unknown and requires further study.
Syndromic management of sexually transmissible infections in resource-poor settings: a systematic review with meta-analysis of the abnormal vaginal discharge flowchart for Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: van Gemert Caroline , Hellard Margaret , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Fowkes Freya J. I. , Agius Paul A. , Stoove Mark , Bennett Catherine M.
Published: August 2017

Background: Syndromic management of sexually transmissible infections is commonly used in resource-poor settings for the management of common STIs; abnormal vaginal discharge (AVD) flowcharts are used to identify and treat cervical infection including Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis. A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to measure the diagnostic test performance of AVD flowcharts, including both World Health Organization (WHO)- and locally-adapted AVD flowcharts. Methods: A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was conducted to locate eligible studies published between 1991 and 2014. Flowcharts were categorised into one of 14 types based on: 1) use of WHO guidelines or locally-adapted versions; 2) use of risk assessment, clinical examination or both; and 3) symptomatic entry. Summary diagnostic performance measures calculated included summary sensitivity, summary specificity and diagnostic odds ratio. Results: Thirty-six studies, including data on 99 flowcharts, were included in the review. Summary sensitivity estimates for WHO flowcharts ranged from 41.2 to 43.6%, and for locally adapted flowcharts from 39.5 to 74.8%. Locally adapted flowcharts performed slightly better than the WHO flowcharts. A difference in performance was not observed between use of risk assessment or clinical examination. The AVD flowchart performed slightly better when it was not restricted to symptomatic women only. Conclusions: There was considerable variation in the performance of the AVD flowchart but overall it was a poor diagnostic tool regardless of whether risk assessment or clinical examination was included, or whether the flowchart was WHO or locally developed. Many women were treated unnecessarily and many women with cervical infection were not detected. We caution against their continued use for management of cervical infection.
Synchronized practice helps bearded capuchin monkeys learn to extend attention while learning a tradition
Authors: Fragaszy Dorothy M. , Eshchar Yonat , Visalberghi Elisabetta , Resende Briseida , Laity Kellie , Izar Patrícia
Published: August 2017

Culture extends biology in that the setting of development shapes the traditions that individuals learn, and over time, traditions evolve as occasional variations are learned by others. In humans, interactions with others impact the development of cognitive processes, such as sustained attention, that shape how individuals learn as well as what they learn. Thus, learning itself is impacted by culture. Here, we explore how social partners might shape the development of psychological processes impacting learning a tradition. We studied bearded capuchin monkeys learning a traditional tool-using skill, cracking nuts using stone hammers. Young monkeys practice components of cracking nuts with stones for years before achieving proficiency. We examined the time course of young monkeys’ activity with nuts before, during, and following others’ cracking nuts. Results demonstrate that the onset of others’ cracking nuts immediately prompts young monkeys to start handling and percussing nuts, and they continue these activities while others are cracking. When others stop cracking nuts, young monkeys sustain the uncommon actions of percussing and striking nuts for shorter periods than the more common actions of handling nuts. We conclude that nut-cracking by adults can promote the development of sustained attention for the critical but less common actions that young monkeys must practice to learn this traditional skill. This work suggests that in nonhuman species, as in humans, socially specified settings of development impact learning processes as well as learning outcomes. Nonhumans, like humans, may be culturally variable learners.
Quantitative tests of a reconstitution model for RNA folding thermodynamics and kinetics
Authors: Bisaria Namita , Greenfeld Max , Limouse Charles , Mabuchi Hideo , Herschlag Daniel
Published: August 2017

Significance

We propose and test predictions of a thermodynamic and kinetic model for RNA tertiary folding that is based on separable energetic contributions of RNA elements. We define these contributions based on the principle features of RNA, and we test the basic predictions of separability by determining whether the energetic contributions of one component are affected by changes in another component. Our results support energetic separability of RNA elements and suggest that it may be possible to deconstruct RNAs into smaller parts that can be studied in isolation such that the individual folding behaviors of these parts can be used to “reconstitute” the folding of the original RNA.
Why eyewitnesses fail
Authors: Albright Thomas D.
Published: August 2017

Eyewitness identifications play an important role in the investigation and prosecution of crimes, but it is well known that eyewitnesses make mistakes, often with serious consequences. In light of these concerns, the National Academy of Sciences recently convened a panel of experts to undertake a comprehensive study of current practice and use of eyewitness testimony, with an eye toward understanding why identification errors occur and what can be done to prevent them. The work of this committee led to key findings and recommendations for reform, detailed in a consensus report entitled
Identifying the Culprit: Assessing Eyewitness Identification
. In this review, I focus on the scientific issues that emerged from this study, along with brief discussions of how these issues led to specific recommendations for additional research, best practices for law enforcement, and use of eyewitness evidence by the courts.
Purifying a Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Stream by Removing Rainbow Trout and Hybrids via Electrofishing
Authors: Meyer Kevin A. , Kennedy Patrick , High Brett , Campbell Matthew R.
Published: August 2017

The South Fork of the Snake River in Idaho supports one of the few remaining fluvial populations of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri, but long‐term persistence of Cutthroat Trout in the drainage is threatened by introgression with introduced Rainbow Trout O. mykiss. We completed eight backpack electrofishing removals from 2010 to 2015 to remove Rainbow Trout and Rainbow Trout × Cutthroat Trout hybrids from a 9.3‐km isolated reach of Palisades Creek (a tributary of the South Fork) in an attempt to improve the purity of the population. For two removals, fish from a subsample of Oncorhynchus were genetically screened at seven diagnostic nuclear DNA loci. A total of 14,092 fish were captured across all removals, of which 3,446 were putative Rainbow Trout or hybrids, which were removed from the stream. The proportion of the total catch that Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout comprised (across all size‐classes combined) increased slowly over time, from 67% in 2010 to 86% for the second removal in 2015. By the end of the study, an estimated 90% of the alleles at the loci we screened were Cutthroat Trout compared with 80% at the beginning. Capture efficiency across all years and size‐classes averaged 38%, ranged from 23% to 52%, and was much higher for larger fish (i.e., ≥250 mm TL) than for smaller fish. Considering the capture efficiencies achieved, initial hybridization levels observed, and number of removals conducted, ending phenotypic purity should have been 94% rather than the 86% we observed. This discrepancy was at least partly due to low capture efficiency for fish < 150 mm and extremely high flows throughout 2011 that prevented electrofishing removals that year, but also suggests that Rainbow Trout and hybrids somehow might have been recolonizing the stream or had a competitive or survival advantage over Cutthroat Trout.
Bi-lateral comparison APMP.L-K5.2006.1—calibration of step gauge
Authors: Abe Makoto , Drijarkara A Praba , Babu Virendra
Published: August 2017

This report concerns an international bilateral key comparison involving two laboratories using three facilities in the subject of calibration of step gauges, which are artefacts used for performance verification of coordinate measuring machines. A third laboratory was selected as an independent adjudicator. The comparison ran from August 2012 to May 2013 during which time there was no significant deterioration in the circulated artefact but the pilot laboratory observed slight change of about 0.15 μm in the measurement result between two measurements, at opposite ends of the circulation. The artefact was a step gauge containing 102 nominally parallel planes half facing each direction (forwards, reverse) with the measurands being the distances between a reference plane and the other planes, measured in the centres. Both participants were able to demonstrate their CMC as listed on the KCDB.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCL, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
PhyloGeoTool: interactively exploring large phylogenies in an epidemiological context
Authors: Libin Pieter , Vanden Eynden Ewout , Incardona Francesca , Nowé Ann , Bezenchek Antonia ,   EucoHIV Study Group, Sönnerborg Anders , Vandamme Anne-Mieke , Theys Kristof , Baele Guy
Published: August 2017

Motivation

Clinicians, health officials and researchers are interested in the epidemic spread of pathogens in both space and time to support the optimization of intervention measures and public health policies. Large sequence databases of virus sequences provide an interesting opportunity to study this spread through phylogenetic analysis. To infer knowledge from large phylogenetic trees, potentially encompassing tens of thousands of virus strains, an efficient method for data exploration is required. The clades that are visited during this exploration should be annotated with strain characteristics (e.g. transmission risk group, tropism, drug resistance profile) and their geographic context.

Results

PhyloGeoTool implements a visual method to explore large phylogenetic trees and to depict characteristics of strains and clades, including their geographic context, in an interactive way. PhyloGeoTool also provides the possibility to position new virus strains relative to the existing phylogenetic tree, allowing users to gain insight in the placement of such new strains without the need to perform a de novo reconstruction of the phylogeny.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/rega-cev/phylogeotool (Freely available: open source software project).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Morphometric discrimination of pelagic fish stocks challenged by variation in body condition
Authors: Geladakis George , Nikolioudakis Nikolaos , Koumoundouros George , Somarakis Stylianos
Published: August 2017

Morphometric characters have traditionally been used to describe the population structure of fishes. Body shape variation, which is often environmentally induced, may provide a good record of short-term population structuring. However, factors unrelated to environmental or genetic influences on body morphology may complicate sampling and the use of morphometric features for stock discrimination. In the present study, we used geometric morphometric variables to compare the European sardine Sardina pilchardus putative stocks of the Aegean and Ionian Seas (eastern Mediterranean). Landmark data of fish collected at seven different sites were subjected to canonical analysis of principal coordinates (CAP). The average body condition of sardines from these sites was strongly and linearly related to corresponding scores along CAP1, the axis exhibiting the highest correlation with the morphometric data cloud. The average scores along CAP2 and CAP3 appeared to be linked to morphological differentiation related to temperature effects and prey availability (mesozooplankton biomass). Despite the primary and confounding effect of body condition, discrimination of different morphotypes corresponding to the Aegean and the Ionian Sea stocks was highly significant with 81% correct reallocations for the respective CAP model.
Excess Volatility: Beyond Discount Rates*
Authors: Giglio Stefano , Kelly Bryan
Published: August 2017

We document a form of excess volatility that is difficult to reconcile with standard models of prices, even after accounting for variation in discount rates. We compare prices of claims on the same cash flow stream but with different maturities. Standard models impose precise internal consistency conditions on the joint behavior of long- and short-maturity claims and these are strongly rejected in the data. In particular, long-maturity prices are significantly more variable than justified by the behavior at short maturities. We reject internal consistency conditions in all term structures that we study, including equity options, currency options, credit default swaps, commodity futures, variance swaps, and inflation swaps.
Reducing the celiac disease antigenicity of wheat
Authors: Malalgoda Maneka , Manthey Frank , Simsek Senay
Published: August 2017

Background and objectives

Celiac disease (CD) affects nearly one in 110 people in the United States, and it is caused by specific prolamin proteins found in cereals such as wheat, rye, and barley. Currently, the only medical solution for celiac patients is a gluten‐free diet. However, there is growing interest in breeding for wheat, barley, and rye cultivars that are safe for patients with CD. In this context, the objective of this review was to examine approaches that could be used to reduce the celiac antigenicity of wheat.

Findings

Techniques such as utilizing genetic variations among cultivars, genome editing techniques, and enzymatic treatments are currently being studied as methods that could be used to produce celiac‐safe wheat. One challenge in producing such cultivars is preserving the viscoelastic properties of dough, as prolamin proteins have a vital role in the formation and viscoelasticity of dough.

Conclusions

This review shows that there is promise in developing celiac‐safe wheat using a combination of techniques; however, addressing the issue of preserving the rheological properties of wheat while reducing the antigenicity still needs to be addressed.

Significance and novelty

Producing celiac‐safe wheat while conserving the viscoelastic properties of wheat maybe possible, using a combination of methods such as cultivar selection, genome editing, and enzymatic modifications.
The Role of Carbetocin in the Prevention and Management of Postpartum Haemorrhage
Authors: Meshykhi L.S. , Nel M.R. , Lucas D.N.
Published: August 2017

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 2016;28:61–69)

One of the serious obstetric complications and a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality is postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), the incidence of which has been increasing in many countries. The most common cause of PPH is uterine atony, and evidence supports the pharmacologic management of the third stage of labor with a uterotonic to decrease the risk of PPH.
Incidence and Severity of Chronic Pain After Caesarean Section: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
Authors: Weibel S. , Neubert K. , Jelting Y. , Meissner W. , Wöckel A. , Roewer N. , Kranke P.
Published: August 2017

(Eur J Anaesthesiol. 2016;33(11):853–865)

Cesarean section (CS) rates have increased throughout the developed world over the past several decades. Currently, nearly one third of deliveries in the United States and one quarter in Europe occur via CS. Thus, CS is one of the most common surgeries performed throughout the world, amounting to 22.9 million cases in 2012. Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) has been identified as a significant problem after many surgical procedures but the data are somewhat limited and inconsistent for CS. These authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze CPSP among women after CS. The objective of this research was to determine the incidence and severity of CPSP following CS.
Does Tranexamic Acid Prevent Postpartum Haemorrhage? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ker K. , Shakur H. , Roberts I.
Published: August 2017

(BJOG. 2016;123(11):1745–1752)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. When PPH becomes life-threatening it sometimes requires hysterectomy, which deprives women of their ability to bear children in the future. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been used successfully in trauma patients to control bleeding by inhibiting the breakdown of fibrin clots. Its use for obstetric hemorrhage is currently being evaluated. The authors performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy of TXA to prevent postpartum hemorrhage as well as its effect on other clinically important outcomes.
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Ersbøll A.S. , Damm P. , Gustafsson F. , Vejlstrup N.G. , Johansen M.
Published: August 2017

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2016;95(11):1205–1219)

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare cause of heart failure in pregnant women worldwide. However, the incidence in the United States has risen from 1:4350 live births in 1990 to 1993 to 1:968 in 2003 to 2011. This recent rise in cases may be explained by increased awareness of the condition as well as increases in maternal age, multiple gestation, chronic hypertension, and use of assisted reproductive technology. Although viral infection, selenium deficiency, autoimmunity and genetic factors have been suggested as contributing factors in PPCM, Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) and the hormone prolactin have been the subject of recent research. PPCM can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms resemble those of other pregnancy-related conditions. This review aimed to supply clinicians with current information on the diagnosis, mechanisms and management of PPCM.
Every Caesarean Section Must Count
Authors: Ellwood D. , Oats J.
Published: August 2017

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2016;56(5):450–452)

This opinion piece supports the argument that cesarean section rates (CSR) are an essential indicator of the quality of care and should be monitored. Between 1985 and 2013 the CSR increased from 15% to 32.8%—more than a doubling in <3 decades. Arguments against the monitoring of CSR include the rights of women to opt for the procedure, high intrapartum stillbirth rates, and the preventable burden of lifelong disabilities caused by intrapartum asphyxia and perineal lacerations resulting from vaginal deliveries. Yet, the risks associated with cesarean section (CS) and the potential morbidity as a result of an increased CSR support making sure each CS is indicated.
Toward Normal Birth: But at What Cost?
Authors: Dietz H.P. , Campbell S.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(4):439–444)

Cesarean delivery (CD) rates have been increasing in both the Western world and other developing countries. Some consistent predictors can be identified across countries and health care systems, such as an increase in maternal age at first delivery, the obesity epidemic and a decline in multiparty among the obstetric population.
Decelerations, Tachycardia, and Decreased Variability: Have We Overlooked the Significance of Longitudinal Fetal Heart Rate Changes for Detecting Intrapartum Fetal Hypoxia?
Authors: Vintzileos A.M. , Smulian J.C.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(3):261–264)

Fetal asphyxia usually occurs in low-risk pregnancies. This editorial supports the use of longitudinal assessment of fetal heart rate (FHR) changes during labor to emphasize the point that in many cases such as the evolution of category II (indeterminate) FHR patterns, evaluation of fetal status over time should include not only the last 15 to 30 minutes of the FHR tracing, but the entire labor. The high interobserver and intraobserver variabilities in the interpretation and management of the various FHR patterns are major shortcomings of electronic fetal monitoring (EFM).
Why it is Critical to Address the Challenge of Maternal Obesity
Authors: Vinter C.A. , Geirsson R.T.
Published: August 2017

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2016;95(9):965–967)

This editorial addresses the various reasons why maternal obesity is such a challenge. A third of pregnant women in Nordic countries and up to half in the United States are overweight or obese. Even women of normal weight tend to gain excessive amounts of weight during pregnancy and often maintain this weight gain postpartum. In addition, maternal obesity is a major contributor to maternal, fetal and neonatal complications. Pregnancy outcomes, long-term maternal health, and obesity risk for their offspring are all adversely affected. The editorial reviews information and recommendations gathered at the second Nordic Congress on Obesity in Gynecology and Obstetrics (NOCOGO).
Population-based Risk for Peripartum Hysterectomy During Low-risk and Moderate-risk Delivery Hospitalizations
Authors: Friedman A.M. , Wright J.D. , Ananth C.V. , Siddiq Z. , D’Alton M.E. , Bateman B.T.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(5):640.e1–640.e8)

Peripartum hysterectomy can be a life-saving procedure for women with postpartum hemorrhage when other interventions have failed. The procedure itself, however, can be fatal with the risk of death ranging from 1% to 6%. Women with a suspected placenta accreta/percreta are considered to be at high-risk for peripartum hysterectomy, and are often referred to tertiary centers where this procedure is frequently performed.
Simulation Training in Obstetrics and Gynecology: What’s Happening on the Frontline?
Authors: Wilson E. , Janssens S. , Hewett D.G. , Jolly B. , Beckmann M.
Published: August 2017

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2016;56(5):496–502)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the current availability and utilization of simulation training as well as attitudes and perceived barriers and enablers to simulation in Australia and New Zealand, considering there is evidence that experience with surgery is suboptimal in trainees. The study was conducted using a survey that was distributed to obstetrics and gynecology trainees and fellows and collected demographic data, current exposure to simulation, and beliefs about simulation training.
Pregnancy Outcomes Following Maternal Kidney Transplantation: A National Cohort Study
Authors: Majak G.B. , Sandven I. , Lorentzen B. , Vangen S. , Reisaeter A.V. , Henriksen T. , Michelsen T.M.
Published: August 2017

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2016;95(10):1153–1161)

While previous studies have reported increased risks of adverse events in pregnancies following kidney transplantation, the authors of this study noted design flaws and a need for validation. These adverse events, including cesarean section, gestational diabetes, preterm delivery and preeclampsia, are of particular concern because they may be associated with an increased risk of acute kidney injury. Previous work on this subject mostly consists of case reports with small sample sizes or single-center studies, and the few studies conducted using national registries have limitations. With preeclampsia as the main outcome, this national retrospective cohort study examined the risks for major obstetrical complications in women who have received kidney transplants (exposed) compared with those who have not (unexposed).
Ultrasound to Identify the Lumbar Space in Women With Impalpable Bony Landmarks Presenting for Elective Caesarean Delivery Under Spinal Anaesthesia: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Creaney M. , Mullane D. , Casby C. , Tan T.
Published: August 2017

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 2016;28:12–16)

The use of ultrasound-guided spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery in patients with spinous processes that are difficult or impossible to palpate is gaining in popularity. The main aim of this study was to determine whether preprocedural ultrasound scanning would make it easier to locate an appropriate needle insertion point and thereby improve the performance of spinal anesthesia for elective cesarean delivery in patients with impalpable bony landmarks.
Optimal Hand Washing Technique to Minimize Bacterial Contamination Before Neuraxial Anesthesia: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Siddiqui N. , Friedman Z. , McGeer A. , Yousefzadeh A. , Carvalho J.C. , Davies S.
Published: August 2017

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 2017;29:39–44)

Despite the fact that infection is the leading cause of injury claims related to neuraxial procedures in obstetric patients in the United States, little has been done to study the aseptic techniques used by anesthesiologists. There are also no guidelines describing optimal hand washing techniques before obstetric epidural procedures. A randomized, controlled investigation was therefore undertaken to assess the effectiveness of 5 different methods of hand washing before insertion of epidural catheters for labor analgesia.
Comparison of Bioreactance and Echocardiographic Noninvasive Cardiac Output Monitoring and Myocardial Function Assessment in Primagravida Women
Authors: Doherty A. , El-Khuffash A. , Monteith C. , McSweeney L. , Breatnach C. , Kent E. , Tully E. , Malone F. , Thornton P.
Published: August 2017

(Br J Anaesth. 2017;118(4):527–532)

Bioreactance (BRT) uses the phase shift or time delay of an applied alternating current traversing the thoracic area to derive stroke volume (SV). Its use has not yet been validated for detailed noninvasive assessment of maternal hemodynamics in the obstetric population. Therefore, the authors of the present study compared simultaneous cardiac output (CO) and SV measurements obtained using a noninvasive CO monitor—NICOM (Cheetah Medical, Newton, MA)—that utilizes BRT and echocardiography in a group of healthy primigravid women. The authors also assessed the relationship between maternal characteristics, such as body mass index, and myocardial performance.
Predicting Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries in a Modern Obstetric Population
Authors: Meister M.R. , Cahill A.G. , Conner S.N. , Woolfolk C.L. , Lowder J.L.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(3):310.e1–e7)

The main purpose of this nested case control study was to investigate a modern obstetric cohort in order to identify risk factors and develop prediction models for perineal lacerations and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI, third and fourth degree lacerations) during vaginal delivery. In addition, this study also reevaluated the known risk factors in order to potentially identify new risk factors for any perineal laceration and OASI so as to determine the role of parity in the risk of sustaining any perineal laceration and OASI.
Increasing Incidence of Postpartum Hemorrhage: The Dutch Piece of the Puzzle
Authors: van Stralen G. , von Schmidt Auf Altenstadt J.F. , Bloemenkamp K.W. , van Roosmalen J. , Hukkelhoven C.W.
Published: August 2017

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2016;95(10):1104–1110)

While globally, the maternal mortality ratio has decreased since 1990, the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage has risen in high resource countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Norway. Previous studies have linked the rising incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, to several possible risk factors, including previous cesarean section, emergency or planned cesarean section, and obesity. This study used data from 2000 to 2013 in the Netherlands to examine the incidence of PPH and the relationship between the incidence of PPH and potential causal factors.
Methods to Induce Labour: A Systematic Review, Network Meta-Analysis and Cost-effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Alfirevic Z. , Keeney E. , Dowswell T. , Welton N.J. , Medley N. , Dias S. , Jones L.V. , Caldwell D.M.
Published: August 2017

(BJOG. 2016;123(9):1462–1470)

Labor induction rates have been on the rise over the past 20 years in many developed countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Various methods are available for labor induction, and choosing 1 method over another depends on several factors, such as a woman’s obstetric and medical history, national guidelines and local protocols. Techniques also differ in their effectiveness and risk of complications. The present study aimed to assess labor induction methods using a comprehensive review and synthesis of the evidence in order to determine which interventions were most clinically effective and most cost-effective.
Lowering the High Rate of Caesarean Delivery in China: An Experience From Shanghai
Authors: Liu X. , Lynch C.D. , Cheng W.W. , Landon M.B.
Published: August 2017

(BJOG. 2016;123:1620–1628)

Cesarean delivery (CD) rates have been on the rise in several countries in the world, including China. The CD rate in China has increased from 18% to 50% over the past 20 years. In addition, a World Health Organization survey found that nearly 12% of CDs in China were performed without a medical indication, which was the highest such rate in the world. In response to this information, health care institutions in the country started promoting vaginal deliveries to address this problem. This current article summarizes a retrospective cohort study undertaken at one of the largest obstetric centers in Shanghai which evaluated the impact of this intervention on obstetric practice and trends of CD over time.
Persistent Pain After Cesarean Delivery and Vaginal Delivery: A Prospective Study
Authors: Kainu J.P. , Halmesmäki E. , Korttila K.T. , Sarvela P.J.
Published: August 2017

(Anesth Analg. 2016;123(6):1535–1545)

Persistent pain after cesarean delivery has been associated with recall of acute pain and history of chronic pain. In an earlier retrospective study, the authors found that the incidence of persistent pain at 1 year after cesarean delivery was 18%, compared with 10% at vaginal delivery (P=0.011). To confirm these findings, the authors evaluated the intensity and characteristics of persistent pain and its association with previous pain and other obstetric factors in this prospective study.
Acidemia in Neonates With a 5-Minute Apgar Score of 7 or Greater: What are the Outcomes?
Authors: Sabol B.A. , Caughey A.B.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(4):486.e1–e6)

The collection of fetal cord blood gasses at the time of delivery can be useful in the prediction of adverse outcomes associated with acidemia, such as cerebral palsy, long-term neurological deficits, neonatal death, multiorgan dysfunction, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, and seizures. However, universal umbilical cord blood gas analysis at the time of delivery is not a standardized practice, and the collection of fetal cord blood gases varies among institutions and providers.
Benefits and Risks of Antiretroviral Therapy for Perinatal HIV Prevention
Authors: Fowler M.G. , Qin M. , Fiscus S.A. , Currier J.S. , Flynn P.M. , Chipato T. , McIntyre J. , Gnanashanmugam D. , Siberry G.K. , Coletti A.S. , Taha T.E. , Klingman K.L. , Martinson F.E. , Owor M. , Violari A. , Moodley D. , Theron G.B. , Bhosale R. , Bobat R. , Chi B.H. , Strehlau R. , Mlay P. , Loftis A.J. , Browning R. , Fenton T. , Purdue L. , Basar M. , Shapiro D.E. , Mofenson L.M.
Published: August 2017

(N Engl J Med. 2016;375(18):1726–1737)

Although triple-drug antiretroviral therapy (ART) has clear benefits for mothers and infants, studies have shown higher rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes with maternal ART than with regimens containing fewer antiretroviral agents. The Promoting Maternal and Infant Survival Everywhere (PROMISE) trial thus compared the relative efficacy and safety of various open-label antiretroviral strategies and their effect on preventing mother-to-child transmission among asymptomatic HIV-infected pregnant women with high CD4 counts (at least 350 cells/mm3).
Pregnancy as a Window to Future Health: Short-term Costs and Consequences
Authors: Catov J.M. , Margerison-Zilko C.
Published: August 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;215(4):406–407)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality among women, but because CVD presents differently in women than in men, traditional methods of early detection are insufficient. In addition, knowledge of CVD in women of reproductive age is lacking. It is known that women with small for gestational age fetuses, preterm labor or preeclampsia are at increased risk of hypertension and cardiometabolic risk after delivery. However, the study by Cain et al is important because it identified the risk of CVD and the cost associated with it in the 5 years following delivery.
Dural Puncture Epidural Technique Improves Labor Analgesia Quality With Fewer Side Effects Compared With Epidural and Combined Spinal Epidural Techniques: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Chau A. , Bibbo C. , Huang C.C. , Elterman K.G. , Cappiello E.C. , Robinson J.N. , Tsen L.C.
Published: August 2017

(Anesth Analg. 2017;124(2):560–569)

Epidural (EPL) and combined spinal epidural (CSE) are commonly used and effective labor analgesia neuraxial techniques. EPL has minimal adverse effects, but has a slow onset time and may result in insufficient sacral spread/patchy sensory blockade. In contrast, CSE has rapid onset and excellent sacral coverage but has greater risk of adverse effects. The dural puncture epidural (DPE) technique (passing a spinal needle through the EPL needle, puncturing the dura but not injecting medication into the intrathecal space) has been shown to improve caudal spread of analgesia compared with the EPL technique, without the side effects seen with CSE. In the present study, the authors determined whether or not overall analgesia characteristics and side effects would favor the DPE technique, and hypothesized that onset of labor analgesia is most rapid with CSE, followed by DPE and EPL.
Dose-Response of Intrathecal Morphine When Administered With Intravenous Ketorolac for Postcesarean Analgesia: A 2-Center, Prospective, Randomized, Blinded Trial
Authors: Berger J.S. , Gonzalez A. , Hopkins A. , Alshaeri T. , Jeon D. , Wang S. , Amdur R.L. , Smiley R.
Published: August 2017

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 2016;28:3–11)

Postcesarean pain management is very important since women undergoing cesarean delivery need to recover quickly in order to care for their newborns. Intrathecal (IT) morphine is commonly used to provide postcesarean analgesia as it provides effective pain relief without interfering with the ability to safely ambulate. However, the optimal dose of IT morphine that maximizes analgesic effects while minimizing opioid-induced side effects has not been clearly established, especially when used as part of a multimodal analgesic technique. Therefore, the current investigators undertook a 2-center, prospective, randomized, blinded study to determine the dose-response relationship of IT morphine for postcesarean analgesia when administered in combination with intravenous (IV) ketorolac.
The Analgesic Efficacy of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (NSAIDs) in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Deliveries: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zeng A.M. , Nami N.F. , Wu C.L. , Murphy J.D.
Published: August 2017

(Reg Anesth Pain Med. 2016;41(6):763–772)

In 2007, there were 1.4 million cesarean deliveries (1 in 3 live births) in the United States alone. Pain after cesarean delivery can be severe in many patients, with 78% of women undergoing cesarean delivery reporting moderate to severe postoperative pain within the first 24 hours postoperatively. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective in the treatment of this postoperative pain despite them being generally viewed as “weak” analgesics. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the analgesic efficacy of NSAIDs in postoperative cesarean delivery patients as well as secondary outcomes such as opioid-related adverse side effects and quality of breastfeeding.
Quadratus Lumborum Block Versus Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Pain After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Blanco R. , Ansari T. , Riad W. , Shetty N.
Published: August 2017

(Reg Anesth Pain Med. 2016;41(6):757–762)

Pain relief after cesarean section can significantly enhanced early recovery, ambulation, and breastfeeding. A prior study found quadratus lumborum block (QLB) to be superior to patient-controlled analgesia after cesarean delivery. QLB is a posterior abdominal wall block that allows local anesthetic to spread behind the quadratus lumborum muscle and expand past the middle layer of the thoracolumbar fascia into the lumbar interfacial triangle. The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is another regional block being used with increased frequency for postoperative analgesia. The current investigators compared the efficacy of QLB and TAP blocks for postcesarean analgesia.
Inclusion body myositis: advancements in diagnosis, pathomechanisms, and treatment
Authors: Schmidt Karsten , Schmidt Jens
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

To review new advances in inclusion body myositis (IBM) and discuss them in light of current knowledge on diagnosis, pathomechanisms, and treatment perspectives.

Recent findings

IBM is a treatment refractory inflammatory myopathy in middle-aged patients that leads to a slow, relentlessly progressive muscle weakness, and atrophy. Recent data collections suggest that mortality in IBM patients is somewhat elevated compared with the general population. One major risk factor for death is severe dysphagia, which can now be determined by a novel real-time MRI technique. Recently, proposed diagnostic criteria with a combination of clinical and histopathological features have improved sensitivity and specificity. cytosolic 5’-nucleotidase 1A antibodies have been characterized in IBM patients and their pathophysiologic role has recently been studied. New inflammatory pathomechanisms have been identified in IBM muscle and may help to design novel treatment strategies. A broad spectrum of immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory trials have been conducted, but – so far– no effective treatment is available. Current therapeutic attempts aim to block the myostatin pathway or restore the protein homeostasis.

The expanding knowledge of the complex disease, the refinement of diagnostic criteria, and developments in diagnostic procedures are expected to foster the much needed design of new treatment approaches for future clinical trials.
Autograft Reconstruction for Chronic Achilles Tendon Disorders
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Aicale Rocco , Tarantino Domiziano
Published: August 2017

Surgical management of chronic tendon Achilles ruptures usually requires tendon grafting procedures. Several techniques have been described. We describe the use of 3 different minimally invasive tendon transfer techniques in the management of patients with a chronic rupture of the tendon Achilles, undertaking a free transfer of the semitendinosus tendon, or a transfer of the peroneus brevis or flexor hallucis longus tendons. All 3 techniques produce marked functional improvement, and return to sports is possible in most patients. The advantages of one technique over the others need to be explored.

Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.