bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Preterm Heart in Childhood: Left Ventricular Structure, Geometry, and Function Assessed by Echocardiography in 6‐Year‐Old Survivors of Periviable Births
Authors: Mohlkert Lilly‐Ann , Hallberg Jenny , Broberg Olof , Rydberg Annika , Halvorsen Cecilia Pegelow , Liuba Petru , Fellman Vineta , Domellöf Magnus , Sjöberg Gunnar , Norman Mikael
Published: January 2018

Background

Preterm birth has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity in adult life. We evaluated whether preterm birth is associated with deviating cardiac structure and function before school start.

Methods and Results

In total, 176 children aged 6 years and born extremely preterm (
EXPT
; gestational age of 22–26 weeks) and 134 children born at term (control [
CTRL
]) were studied. We used echocardiography to assess left heart dimensions, geometry, and functions. Recording and off‐line analyses of echocardiographic images were performed by operators blinded to group belonging. Body size, blood pressure, and heart rate were also measured. Rates of family history of cardiovascular disease and sex distribution were similar in the
EXPT
and CTRL groups. Heart rate and systolic blood pressure did not differ, whereas diastolic blood pressure was slightly higher in
EXPT
than CTRL participants. After adjusting for body surface area, left ventricular length, width, and aortic valve annulus diameter were 3% to 5% smaller in
EXPT
than CTRL participants. Left ventricular longitudinal shortening and systolic tissue velocity were 7% to 11% lower, and transversal shortening fraction was 6% higher in
EXPT
than CTRL participants. The
EXPT
group also exhibited lower atrial emptying velocities than the CTRL group. Sex, fetal growth restriction, or a patent ductus arteriosus in the neonatal period did not contribute to cardiac dimensions or performance.

Conclusions

Six‐year‐old children born extremely preterm exhibit a unique cardiac phenotype characterized by smaller left ventricles with altered systolic and diastolic functions than same‐aged children born at term.
A Portal to Knowledge
Authors: Golan Nurit
Published: January 2018

This article engages with the Creation cycle (hexaemeron) sculpted on the vault of the south portal of the choir of the Holy Cross Church at Schwäbisch Gmünd (1351–1377). Several reliefs depict the cosmological creation, which was a rather rare topic in monumental sculpture on public display during the Middle Ages. Being based on cosmological theories, taught at the universities, but not expected to be shared with the laity, it is a unique intellectual cultural phenomenon.

The article seeks to interpret anew the full scientific significance of these unprecedented iconographic cosmological depictions. The choice of topic and location of the cosmological reliefs will be explained in relation to the town’s socioeconomic and political developments that brought to substantial changes in the lives of the burghers.

Presenting these novel ideas to the medieval public in an ecclesiastic context suggests an important change in the intellectual history of the region in the late fourteenth century.
The tadpole of Dendropsophus novaisi (Bokermann, 1968) (Anura: Hylidae), with comments on natural history
Authors: RUAS DANILO SILVA , DE MIRA-MENDES CAIO VINICIUS , DEL-GRANDE MARIA LÚCIA , ZINA JULIANA , SOLÉ MIRCO
Published: January 2018

Several frog species descriptions from this century provide larval morphology, acoustical, molecular, ecological and behavioral information that, together, provide a better species characterization (e.g., Glos et al. 2005; Toledo et al. 2010; Vassilieva et al. 2016). For the majority of anuran species, basic information is still lacking, despite being fundamental to understand the evolution of a taxonomic unit as well as phylogenetic relationships established between taxa. Such information can be particularly useful for species groups with unresolved taxonomic issues, such as the Dendropsophus marmoratus group (Bokermann 1964; Heyer 1977; Caramaschi & Jim 1983; Gomes & Peixoto 1996).
New deep Cheilostomata (Bryozoa) species from the Southwestern Atlantic: shedding light in the dark
Authors: FIGUEROLA BLANCA , GORDON DENNIS P. , CRISTOBO JAVIER
Published: January 2018

The present paper reports on 22 bryozoan species collected from 25 localities on the Southwestern Atlantic continental shelf and slope by the Instituto Español de Oceanografía vessel RV Miguel Oliver (2008–2010). Two new genera, Amynaskolia n. gen. and Biconcavus n. gen., and twenty new cheilostome species are described: Amastigia zigzag n. sp., Membranicellaria balanyai n. sp., Figularia dimorpha n. sp., Biconcavus batmani n. sp., Smittina acicularis n. sp., Smittoidea granulosa n. sp., Amynaskolia foramina n. sp., Mawatarius avilae n. sp., Mucropetraliella reticulata n. sp., Ipsibuffonella umbonata n. sp., Microporella gappai n. sp., Fenestrulina curviscutum n. sp., Fenestrulina multiflorum n. sp., Malakosaria cecilioi n. sp., Osthimosia incisa n. sp., Spigaleos simplex n. sp., Reteporella kuklinskii n. sp., Reteporella maryae n. sp., Reteporella taylori n. sp., Orthoporidra nova n. sp.. New taxonomic remarks are also included for two little-known species: Melicerita atlantica Busk, 1884 and Arachnopusia tubula Hayward & Thorpe, 1988. Membranicellaria balanyai n. sp., Mawatarius avilae n. sp. and Ipsibuffonella umbonata n. sp. represent the third described species of their genera, whereas Spigaleos simplex n. sp., Malakosaria cecilioi n. sp. and Orthoporidra nova n. sp. are the fourth, fifth and sixth described species of their genera respectively. Spigaleos (Celleporidae) and Arachnopusia tubula (Arachnopusiidae), previously reported only from Antarctica, Ipsibuffonella (Buffonellodidae), reported from tropical and subtropical regions, and Mucropetraliella (Petraliidae) all represent first records for the Patagonian region, expanding their geographic distributions northwards and southwards, respectively. These results highlight the importance of sampling the slope and deep waters of South American and Antarctic margins and basins, filling significant gaps in the knowledge of the biodiversity and biogeographic ranges of certain taxa in these unique and varied ecosystems.
Cryptochrysa Freitas & Penny, a generic homonym, replaced by Titanochrysa Sosa & Freitas (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: TAUBER CATHERINE A. , SOSA FRANCISCO , CONTRERAS-RAMOS ATILANO
Published: January 2018

The green lacewing genus name Cryptochrysa Freitas & Penny 2001 is identified as a junior homonym of Cryptochrysa Hampson 1926 (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Moreover, Titanochrysa Sosa & Freitas 2012 is determined to be an available junior synonym of Cryptochrysa Freitas & Penny. Thus, Titanochrysa becomes the substitute name for the preoccupied generic name. Here, we also provide (i) new information and images for Titanochrysa chloros (Freitas & Penny) comb. nov., the only species ever included in the chrysopid genus Cryptochrysa, (ii) a clarified set of diagnostic features for the reconstituted genus Titanochrysa, and (iii) a key and images for identifying the six described Titanochrysa species.
A Novel Instrument for Real-Time Measurement of Attenuation of Weather Radar Radome Including Its Outer Surface. Part II: Applications
Authors: Mancini Alessio , Salazar Jorge L. , Lebrón Rodrigo M. , Cheong Boon Leng
Published: January 2018

The concept and theory of a novel instrument to characterize the radio frequency performance of a radome under different conditions, including dirtiness, wetness, and varying temperature, was presented and discussed in Part I. The proposed concept estimates the transmittance through the radome using the reflected signal, directly measured, and an algorithm to evaluate the water absorption on the radome surface. In this second part of the paper, the proposed concept was employed to characterize the radome of an operative X-band weather radar in both dry and wet conditions.
Cortical surface area reduction in identification of subjects at high risk for post-traumatic stress disorder: A pilot study
Authors: Hu Hao , Sun Yawen , Su Shanshan , Wang Yao , Qiu Yongming , Yang Xi , Zhou Yan , Xiao Zeping , Wang Zhen
Published: January 2018

Objective:

Victims of motor vehicle accidents often develop post-traumatic stress disorder, which causes significant social function loss. For the difficulty in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, identification of subjects at high risk for post-traumatic stress disorder is essential for providing possible intervention. This paper aims to examine the cortical structural traits related to susceptibility to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Methods:

To address this issue, we performed structural magnetic resonance imaging study in motor vehicle accident victims within 48 hours from the accidents. A total of 70 victims, available for both clinical and magnetic resonance imaging data, enrolled in our study. Upon completion of 6-month follow-up, 29 of them developed post-traumatic stress disorder, while 41 of them didn’t. At baseline, voxelwise comparisons of cortical thickness, cortical area and cortical volume were conducted between post-traumatic stress disorder group and trauma control group.

Results:

As expected, several reduced cortical volume within frontal-temporal loop were observed in post-traumatic stress disorder. For cortical thickness, no between-group differences were observed. There were three clusters in left hemisphere and one cluster in right hemisphere showing decreased cortical area in post-traumatic stress disorder patients, compared with trauma controls. Peak voxels of the three clusters in left hemisphere were separately located in superior parietal cortex, insula and rostral anterior cingulate cortex.

Conclusion:

The finding of reduced surface area of left insula and left rostral anterior cingulate cortex suggests that shrinked surface area in motor vehicle accident victims could act as potential biomarker of subjects at high risk for post-traumatic stress disorder.
Opportunities for well-being: The right to occupational engagement
Authors: Hammell Karen Whalley
Published: January 2018

Background.

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists’ 2017 conference theme prompted thoughts about shaping our profession’s future.

Purpose.

This Muriel Driver Memorial Lecture explores how occupational therapy’s future might be shaped to become more important, relevant, and valuable to society.

Key Issues.

Because occupational engagement is integral to human well-being and because well-being is integral to human rights, occupational therapy could usefully advance the right of all people to engage in occupations that contribute positively to their own well-being and the well-being of their communities.

Implications.

Occupational therapy’s importance to society will be manifested when we focus unambiguously on well-being; extend our efforts beyond enhancing the abilities of individuals whose lives are already impacted by illness, injury, or impairment; and address the opportunities for achieving well-being through occupational engagement of all those whose capabilities—their opportunities to do what they have the abilities to do—are inequitably constrained.
Comparison of Single-Response Format and Forced-Choice Format Instruments Using Thurstonian Item Response Theory
Authors: Dueber David M. , Love Abigail M. A. , Toland Michael D. , Turner Trisha A.
Published: January 2018

One of the most cited methodological issues is with the response format, which is traditionally a single-response Likert response format. Therefore, our study aims to elucidate and illustrate an alternative response format and analytic technique, Thurstonian item response theory (IRT), for analyzing data from surveys using an alternate response format, the forced-choice format. Specifically, we strove to give a thorough introduction of Thurstonian IRT at a more elementary level than previous publications in order to widen the possible audience. This article presents analyses and comparison of two versions of a self-report scale, one version using a single-response format and the other using a forced-choice format. Drawing from lessons learned from our study and literature, we present a number of recommendations for conducting research using the forced-choice format and Thurstonian IRT, as well as suggested avenues for future research.
In-situ monitoring of woven glass fiber reinforced composites under flexural loading through embedded aligned carbon nanotube sheets
Authors: Aly Karim , Li Ang , Bradford Philip D
Published: January 2018

In practical situations, the flexural loading of fiber reinforced composites is one of the most common types of loading for structures. Nonetheless, carbon nanotubes, which have been used extensively to study in-plane strain sensing in composites, have rarely been employed to monitor flexural induced strains. With this motivation, this paper introduces a novel method for localizing aligned carbon nanotube sheet layers in three selected locations inside a laminated composite structure. These top, middle, and bottom locations are more prone to damage since they experience maximum flexural induced tension, compression, and interlaminar shear stresses. The composite structural performance is monitored by establishing an electromechanical coupling between the developing strain and the three carbon nanotube sensing elements’ in-plane electrical resistance changes that are measured simultaneously. The results of the monotonic and dynamic flexural loading tests suggest that carbon nanotube sensing materials exhibit a high level of sensitivity. The results also show that the resistance change of the three embedded carbon nanotube layers appeared to track the mechanical state of the host structure well. The carbon nanotube layer embedded in the middle section showed a piezoresistive behavior in response to the growing complex stress state with a few electrical resistance change spikes corresponding to damage developing inside the laminated structure. This flexural sensing behavior may considered as useful for real applications because in addition to sensing strain, this technology may help in predicting the failure of the composite component before the actual end of service life.
Physical, mechanical, chemical and thermal properties of nanoscale graphene oxide-poly methylmethacrylate composites
Authors: Khan Aftab A , Mirza Eraj H , Mohamed Badreldin A , Alharthi Nabeel H , Abdo Hany S , Javed Ravish , Alhur Rashed S , Vallittu Pekka K
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this laboratory study was to formulate and characterize the graphene oxide-poly(methyl methacrylate) resin composite with an intended use as bone cement. Graphene oxide was fabricated through ultrasonication route. The autopolymerization resin (Eco Cryl Cold, Protechno, Vilamalla Girona, Spain) was used to prepare the specimens of required dimensions for different testing parameters. The control group (C-group) was prepared as such. However, for GO1-group, 0.024 wt/wt.-% of graphene oxide was incorporated in a resin matrix and GO2-group was a composite with 0.048 wt/wt.-% of graphene oxide in a resin matrix. TEM examination of graphene oxide sheets demonstrated them in the range of ∼500 nm to ∼2 µm. The mechanical properties were characterized using three-point bending and wear resistance, while material properties were assessed through transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and thermo-gravimetric analysis. The results suggest that 0.024 wt/wt.-% and 0.048 wt/wt.-% of loading of GO have no effect on the physiochemical characteristics. However, thermal characteristics might slightly be improved. According to the analysis of variance results ( p < 0.05, n = 5), wear resistance and bending strength of both GO1 and GO2 groups significantly improved compared to C-group. The bending strength of GO2 improved to 87.0 ± 7.2 MPa from 65.9 ± 11.5 MPa of C-group. Scanning electron microscopy examination of the fractured surface demonstrated granule like structure where the graphene oxide sheets might be covered inside PMMA. The use of GO-PMMA composites favorably enhances the mechanical properties of bone cement.
A Force on the Crown and Tug of War in the Periodontal Complex
Authors: Jang A.T. , Chen L. , Shimotake A.R. , Landis W. , Altoe V. , Aloni S. , Ryder M. , Ho S.P.
Published: January 2018

The load-bearing dentoalveolar fibrous joint is composed of biomechanically active periodontal ligament (PDL), bone, cementum, and the synergistic entheses of PDL-bone and PDL-cementum. Physiologic and pathologic loads on the dentoalveolar fibrous joint prompt natural shifts in strain gradients within mineralized and fibrous tissues and trigger a cascade of biochemical events within the widened and narrowed sites of the periodontal complex. This review highlights data from in situ biomechanical simulations that provide tooth movements relative to the alveolar socket. The methods and subsequent results provide a reasonable approximation of strain-regulated biochemical events resulting in mesial mineral formation and distal resorption events within microanatomical regions at the ligament-tethered/enthesial ends. These biochemical events, including expressions of biglycan, decorin, chondroitin sulfated neuroglial 2, osteopontin, and bone sialoprotein and localization of various hypertrophic progenitors, are observed at the alkaline phosphatase–positive widened site, resulting in mineral formation and osteoid/cementoid layers. On the narrowed side, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase regions can lead to a sequence of clastic activities resulting in resorption pits in bone and cementum. These strain-regulated biochemical and subsequently biomineralization events in the load-bearing periodontal complex are critical for maintenance of the periodontal space and overall macroscale joint biomechanics.
Early Childhood General and Special Educators: An Examination of Similarities and Differences in Beliefs, Knowledge, and Practice
Authors: Spear Caitlin F. , Piasta Shayne B. , Yeomans-Maldonado Gloria , Ottley Jennifer R. , Justice Laura M. , O’Connell Ann A.
Published: January 2018

In this study, we provide a contemporary examination of the similarities and differences between early childhood general educators (ECEs) and early childhood special educators (ECSEs) within a theoretically driven model that accounted for the associations of beliefs and knowledge with practice. We used structural equation modeling to examine the associations among these multifaceted constructs, controlling for background characteristics, for 147 ECEs and 78 ECSEs. Univariate analyses revealed differences between ECEs and ECSEs on measures of beliefs, knowledge, practice, and background characteristics; yet, when examining these variables in a complex model, this pattern of difference did not hold. ECSE status was predictive of differences in knowledge and one component of practice; however, in most cases, the differences between ECEs and ECSEs were not statistically significant. Implications of the findings and the importance of examining the associations of beliefs, knowledge, and practice within a complex system are discussed.
A new framework for the computer modelling and simulation of car driver behavior
Authors: Elkosantini Sabeur , Darmoul Saber
Published: January 2018

In recent years, the simulation of personal car driver behavior has attracted increasing attention in recent research works. Such works are based on models and systems derived from social and psychological studies. The complexity of the simulation of such systems is due to the need for modeling driver behavior and the integration of psychological and physiological factors that can affect driver performance. Although there is only a limited number of models that have been proposed to simulate driver behavior, most of them suffer from limitations pertaining to the integration of some factors, an inadequacy that will be discussed in this paper. This investigation work focuses on the development of a new model for driver behavior simulation based on recent physiological and psychological theories. The model aims to reproduce the driver behavior with respect to some psychological factors. An experimental framework is also presented to build the simulation model. This article concludes by describing some examples of use or application of the suggested model.
Effects of different scouring methods on the catalytic efficiency of pectinase for cotton knitted fabrics
Authors: Xiaokang Zhao , Haitao Ren , Jianyong Liu
Published: January 2018

The application of bioscouring in cotton knitted fabrics should be improved owing to being a time-consuming process. In order to accelerate the bioscouring rate and shorten the bioscouring process, a repeated padding method is used on cotton knitted fabrics. The effect of the repeated padding with pectinase was studied by using FE-SEM and FTIR, and the catalytic rate was measured at different reaction temperatures, pick-up, and soaking times. The results observed in this study showed that during the bioscouring process for cotton knitted fabrics, the average catalytic rate of the repeatedly padding method was sixfold faster than the impregnation method, and the process time (15 min) decreased by 65 minutes compared with the impregnation method (80 min); the processing time was shortened to one-sixth of the impregnation method. Furthermore, the wettability of cotton knitted fabrics was better than those treated via impregnation. In the repeated padding process, with the soaking time increasing from 5 s to 25 s, the produced reducing sugar concentration increased from 1.71 mg/ml to 3.60 mg/ml in the same process time; with the pick-up increased from 50% to 90%, the produced reducing sugar concentration first increased from 1.99 mg/ml to 3.60 mg/ml, then decreased to 1.86 mg/ml. When the pick-up was about 70%, the catalytic rate of pectinase reached the best value (0.24 mg/ml/min).
Tackling the Complexity of the Pro-environmental Behavior Intentions of Visitors to Turtle Sites
Authors: Olya Hossein G. T. , Akhshik Arash
Published: January 2018

This empirical study improved our understanding of how to simulate visitors’ pro-environmental behavior intentions (PEBIs) during interpretive marine turtle tours in Cyprus. Complexity theory was applied as a sufficient theoretical basis of the proposed configurational model that was tested using fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) as an innovative set theoretic approach. Four configurations—demographics, values, beliefs, and norms and attitudes—were used to explore causal recipes leading to both high and low PEBI scores. The findings highlighted the heterogeneity issue in predicting PEBIs, addressed by determining the positive or negative role of PEBI indicators along with attributes of other indicators in causal recipes. The fsQCA results of four configurations suggested 12 recipes for attaining high PEBI scores. Further insight was obtained via configurational modeling of visitors’ PEBIs during endangered species tours, which contributed to the current knowledge of tourism management in protected areas. Implications for practice and further research are discussed.
A Year Without a Conviction: An Integrated Examination of Potential Mechanisms for Successful Reentry in High-Risk Violent Prisoners
Authors: Polaschek Devon L. L. , Yesberg Julia A. , Chauhan Preeti
Published: January 2018

Some high-risk prisoners on parole “beat the odds”: remaining in the community through their first year without incurring even minor reconvictions. What makes the difference? We investigated three potential mechanisms for postrelease survival—lower dynamic risk, greater readiness for parole, and earlier and longer parole oversight—in two samples: 120 men who had completed 8 to 12 months in an intensive treatment unit for high-risk prisoners, and 151 comparison prisoners who had received less or no treatment. Based on structural equation modeling, results indicated that treatment status (completer or comparison), and readiness for release each directly predicted when and for how long a prisoner would be on parole, which in turn predicted reconviction. Significant indirect pathways indicated that lower dynamic risk, better release readiness, and longer/earlier parole oversight all contributed to the lower rates of reconviction in high-risk prisoners, whether treated or not.
Control of LPV systems subject to state constraints and input saturation
Authors: Hu Yanmei , Duan Guangren , Tan Feng
Published: January 2018

This paper deals with the stabilization of state-constrained linear parameter-varying systems subject to parameter uncertainties and input saturation. Based on a class of parameter-dependent Lyapunov functions, and the set invariance, sufficient conditions for the stabilization problem of the linear parameter-varying systems are established in terms of parameterized linear matrix inequalities. Further, these conditions are converted into linear matrix inequalities by using a parameter relaxation technique. Finally, detailed simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
Jacques Vincey’s ‘Business in Venice’ in a French supermarket
Authors: Fischer Susan L
Published: January 2018

Jacques Vincey’s 2017 production (Théâtre Olympia, Centre Dramatique National de Tours) did not seek to purge The Merchant of Venice (‘Business in Venice’) of its many disturbing aspects, as many interpreters over time have sought to do. The play has been subject to many interpretations, often contradictory: In this case, Portia was a wealthy heiress; Shylock, a suffering and dignified man, tragically caught in a carnivalesque comedy; Bassanio, a fortune hunter; the Christians, barbarous hypocrites; and Belmont, a place of materiality and artificiality. The production elicited perceptions of anti-Semitism among members of Le Conseil représentatif des institutions juives de France Touraine-Poitou-Charentes.
Characterization of single vs. recurrent spontaneous coronary artery dissection
Authors: Rigatelli Gianluca , Dell’Avvocata Fabio , Picariello Claudio , Zuin Marco , Giordan Massimo , Roncon Loris
Published: January 2018

Background

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is a rare non-atherosclerotic cause of acute coronary syndromes, often underdiagnosed based on standard coronary angiography. Moreover, features, presentation, and intravascular imaging of recurrent spontaneous dissections have not been assessed.

Methods

Patients with recurrent spontaneous coronary artery dissection, who were admitted to our catheterization laboratory over a 10-year period, were identified. Demographic, clinical, angiographic, and intravascular imaging data were reviewed and analyzed, comparing patients with a single event with those who had a recurrence.

Results

Over the study period, 31 (0.2%, mean age 48.1 ± 8.8 years, 24 females) of 10,954 patients who underwent coronary angiography experienced a single spontaneous coronary artery dissection, and 6 (0.05%, mean age 49.3 ± 10.1 years, 4 females) experienced recurrent spontaneous coronary artery dissection. No patient suffered more than 2 dissections. Arterial hypertension ( p = 0.004), a string sign measuring >15 mm on angiography, and hematoma on intravascular ultrasound imaging were more frequently observed in patients with recurrent spontaneous coronary artery dissection.

Conclusions

Hypertension, length of the string sign on angiography, and hematoma on intravascular ultrasound imaging might identify patients at higher risk of recurrent spontaneous coronary artery dissection despite a lifelong dual antiplatelet regimen.
The value of ‘bearing witness’ to desistance
Authors: Cluley Emma , Marston Peter
Published: January 2018

Sarah Anderson’s article, ‘The Value of “Bearing Witness” to Desistance’ (2016), aims to consider the relevance of trauma in work with offenders and the importance of ‘bearing witness’ to offenders’ experiences of trauma. Anderson explores its relevance to probation practice. We reflect on how being aware of our own life journeys and encounters with trauma can impact on such work, and this article seeks to highlight ways within practice that practitioners ‘bear witness’ and in doing so support offenders’ desistance journeys and risk reduction.
Comparison of peritumoral stromal tissue stiffness obtained by shear wave elastography between benign and malignant breast lesions
Authors: Park Hye Sun , Shin Hee Jung , Shin Ki Chang , Cha Joo Hee , Chae Eun Young , Choi Woo Jung , Kim Hak Hee
Published: January 2018

Background

Aggressive breast cancers produce abnormal peritumoral stiff areas, which can differ between benign and malignant lesions and between different subtypes of breast cancer.

Purpose

To compare the tissue stiffness of the inner tumor, tumor border, and peritumoral stroma (PS) between benign and malignant breast masses by shear wave elastography (SWE).

Material and Methods

We enrolled 133 consecutive patients who underwent preoperative SWE. Using OsiriX commercial software, we generated multiple 2-mm regions of interest (ROIs) in a linear arrangement on the inner tumor, tumor border, and PS. We obtained the mean elasticity value (Emean) of each ROI, and compared the Emean between benign and malignant tumors. Odds ratios (ORs) for prediction of malignancy were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed among tumor subtypes.

Results

There were 85 malignant and 48 benign masses. The Emean of the tumor border and PS were significantly different between benign and malignant masses ( P < 0.05 for all). ORs for malignancy were 1.06, 1.08, 1.05, and 1.04 for stiffness of the tumor border, proximal PS, middle PS, and distal PS, respectively ( P < 0.05 for all). Malignant masses with a stiff rim were significantly larger than malignant masses without a stiff rim, and were more commonly associated with the luminal B and triple negative subtypes.

Conclusion

Stiffness of the tumor border and PS obtained by SWE were significantly different between benign and malignant masses. Malignant masses with a stiff rim were larger in size and associated with more aggressive pathologic subtypes.
Comparison of contrast-enhanced ultrasound with MRI in the diagnosis of complex cystic renal masses: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Linli , Tang Lemin , Yang Tao , Chen Wei
Published: January 2018

Background

The differential diagnosis of cystic renal masses still faces great challenges. There has been no systematically assessment to compare the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of cystic renal masses.

Purpose

To perform a meta-analysis to compare the diagnostic efficacy of CEUS with that of MRI for cystic renal masses.

Material and Methods

A systematic search was performed for literature evaluating the diagnostic performance of CEUS or MRI in cystic renal masses. Quality assessment of diagnostic studies 2 (QUADAS-2) was used to evaluate the quality of each study included. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and the areas under the summary receiver operating characteristic (AUCs-SROC) curve for CEUS and MRI were calculated, respectively.

Results

Seventeen studies with 1142 lesions were included. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio for CEUS /MRI were 0.95/0.92, 0.84/0.91, 5.62/6.74, and 0.09/0.13, respectively. The AUCs-SROC curves for the two methods were 95.66% and 94.65%. The subgroup analysis indicated that the scanning slice thickness may influence the diagnostic efficacy of MRI.

Conclusion

Both CEUS and MRI have good diagnostic performance for cystic renal masses and can provide the reference for clinicians. CEUS is more sensitive but less specific than MRI.
A deep rolling finite element analysis procedure for automotive crankshafts
Authors: Fonseca Luiz GA , de Faria Alfredo R
Published: January 2018

Deep rolling is performed on crankshafts since the 1960s, yet there is still a knowledge gap regarding residual stress generation. Until this moment, there is no consolidated and widespread procedure to predict such stresses during the crankshaft design cycle. This study establishes an analysis procedure and correlates it with experimental results. An explicit finite element model with real boundary conditions is developed together with a converged mesh for the fillet radius. Simulation nodal displacement and strain output are compared to geometrical measurements using a coordinate-measuring machine. Outputs in terms of residual stresses are related to X-ray diffraction measurements taken along fillet depth. The experimental results attest to the accuracy of the model and correctness in predicting the process outcomes.
Through-depth residual stress measurement of laser bent steel–titanium bimetal sheets
Authors: Kotobi Mahdi , Honarpisheh Mohammad
Published: January 2018

Laser bending is one of the thermal forming processes which in each pass of it, the temperature of sample increases at heat-affected zone during irradiation time considerably and then it cools to near ambient temperature after passing the laser beam. Consequently, it can be predicted that the process can induce significant residual stress in the sample. In this article, laser bending process of the explosive welded steel–titanium bimetal sample was done and the through-thickness residual stress profile of it was investigated by the slitting method experimentally. The pulse-regularization approach was used to calculate the residual stress in the bimetal sample. Also, simulation of the laser bending process was performed and the numerical residual stress profile was compared with the experimental one. Furthermore, the effects of process parameters including laser power, scanning velocity and number of scanning passes on the bending angle of bimetal samples were investigated experimentally. Besides, the effect of laser bending process on the surface microhardness was studied. The results demonstrated that the laser bending process can create significant residual stress at the heat-affected zone of specimen. In the residual stress profile of bimetal sample, a discontinuity was seen at the interface of the materials, as was expected. There was a good agreement between experimental and numerical results. The maximum compressive and tensile residual stresses raised by increase laser power and number of scanning passes. Both of them reduced by magnifying scanning velocity. The laser bending process can increase the surface microhardness at the heat-affected zone which can be attributed to the reduction of grain size at the heat-affected zone.
Effect of Hip-Focused Injury Prevention Training for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Reduction in Female Basketball Players: A 12-Year Prospective Intervention Study
Authors: Omi Yorikatsu , Sugimoto Dai , Kuriyama Setsurou , Kurihara Tomohisa , Miyamoto Kenji , Yun Songjo , Kawashima Tatsuhiro , Hirose Norikazu
Published: January 2018

Background:

Programs to prevent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in female basketball players are scarce. Also, ACL injury prevention training that focuses on hip joint function has not been reported.

Purpose:

To determine the effectiveness of a hip-focused ACL injury prevention program in female basketball players.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A prospective intervention study was conducted for 12 years. Incidence rates of ACL injuries were collected in the first 4 years (observation period) from college female basketball players. After the observation period, a hip-focused ACL injury prevention program was implemented for 8 years (intervention period). A total of 309 players (mean ± SD age, 19.6 ± 1.2 years; height, 163.7 ± 5.6 cm; weight, 59.1 ± 5.1 kg; body mass index, 22.0 ± 1.4) were tracked in the observation period and compared with 448 players (age, 19.6 ± 1.1 years; height, 162.6 ± 5.8 cm; weight, 58.0 ± 5.7 kg; body mass index, 21.9 ± 1.5) who participated in the intervention period. Athlete-exposures (AEs), ACL numbers and mechanisms of injury (MOIs), relative risk (RR), absolute risk reduction (ARR), numbers needed to treat (NNT), and compliance were analyzed.

Results:

There were 16 ACL injuries (13 noncontact MOIs) in the 4-year observation period, whereas 9 ACL injuries (8 noncontact MOIs) were recorded in the 8-year intervention period. The overall ACL injury incidence was 0.25/1000 AEs in the 4-year observation period compared with 0.10/1000 AEs in the 8-year intervention period, respectively. Compared with the 4-year observation period, significant RR reduction was observed (0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.87; P = .017) with ARR and NNT of 0.032 (95% CI, 0.027-0.037) and 31.6 (95% CI, 27.1-37.7), respectively, in the 8-year intervention period. The noncontact ACL injury incidence was 0.21 per 1000 AEs during the 4-year observation period compared with 0.08/1000 AEs in the 8-year intervention period, which also showed significant RR reduction (0.37; 95% CI, 0.15-0.92; P = .026), with ARR and NNT of 0.024 (95% CI, 0.020-0.029) and 41.3 (95% CI, 34.6-51.3), respectively. The mean compliance rate during the intervention periods (8 years) was 89%.

Conclusion:

A hip-focused injury prevention program demonstrated significant reduction in the incidence of ACL injury in female collegiate basketball players.
Vascular Calcifications as a Footprint of Increased Calcium Load and Chronic Inflammation in Uremic Patients: A Need for a Neutral calcium Balance during Hemodialysis?
Authors: Tetta C. , Gallieni M. , Panichi V. , Brancaccio D.
Published: January 2018

Cardiovascular complications caused by an accelerated atherosclerotic disease represent the largest single cause of mortality in chronic renal failure patients. The rapidly developing atherosclerosis of the uremic syndrome appears to be caused by a synergism of different mechanisms, such as malnutrition, oxidative stress and genetic factors. Recent studies provide evidence that chronic inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Hyperphosphatemia and an increased calcium-phosphate ion product have also been associated with an increased risk of death. Cardiovascular calcifications secondary to increases in phosphate and calcium load in dialysis patients might exert an important contribution to the excess cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in dialysis patients.

Elevated serum levels of plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) are associated with the extent and severity of the atherosclerotic processes as well as with an increased risk of experiencing myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death in apparently healthy subjects.

In patients affected by pre-dialytic renal failure increased levels of CRP and IL-6 were recorded in 25% of our population; CRP and IL-6 were inversely related with renal function. These data suggest the activation - even in the predialytic phase of renal failure - of mechanisms known to contribute to the enhanced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality of the uremic syndrome.

In recent years we have investigated the hypothesis that the chronic inflammatory state of the uremic patient could be at least in part due to the dialytic technique. We have shown that the increase of CRP in stable dialysis patients may be due to the stimulation of monocyte/macrophage by backfiltration of dialysate contaminants. During conventional dialysis, a positive calcium balance and a concomitant inflammatory state may act as cofactors in the development of cardiovascular calcifications. We suggest that this hypothesis should be verified by clinical studies. A reevaluation of the ideal calcium levels in the dialysate is warranted: a neutral intradialytic calcium balance is probably more appropriate, although not easily attainable.
Randomized Study of Temporary Hemodialysis Catheters
Authors: Oliver M.J , Edwards L.J. , Treleaven D.J. , Lambert K. , Margetts P.J.
Published: January 2018

Temporary catheters are still essential for acute dialysis access but their performance has not been compared in randomized trials. We conducted a randomized trial of our standard catheter and a newly designed catheter. The primary outcome was maximized blood flow over the entire use of the catheter. Seventy-six patients provided maximum blood flows. The new catheter provided an average blood flow of 349 ml/min and the standard catheter provided flows of 320 ml/mm (p=0.09). Lumen reversal occurred in 56.8% of dialysis sessions with the standard catheter compared to 27.4% with the new catheter (p<0.001). Left-sided internal jugular catheters and catheters inserted in females provided 103 ml/min and 36 ml/min less blood flow, respectively, compared to right sided catheters and catheters placed in males. Approximately 20% of catheters were removed for poor blood flow. Left sided catheters and catheters in females were more likely to need removal for malfunction but catheter design did not influence removal rates.
Magnification of the Pore size in Biodegradable Collagen Sponges
Authors: Kuberka M. , Von Heimburg D. , Schoof H. , Heschel I. , Rau G.
Published: January 2018

In tissue engineering cells are often combined with a carrying structure with collagen being a suitable material to form a 3D-scaffold. A process to manufacture collagen sponges with an adjustable and homogeneous structure has been developed at the Helmholtz-Institute. Using this process, collagen suspensions are frozen directionally and subsequently vacuum-dried. One clinical application in which these scaffolds can be used is soft tissue reconstruction. Various soft tissue defects require an adequate replacement, e.g. in the case of severe burn wounds, or after tumour resections. Collagen (type I) sponges, which are cultured with preadipocytes, may be used to regenerate such defects. In this case, pore sizes of approximately 100 μm are desired to allow a complete differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes. Based on known technology to manufacture collagen sponges with an adjustable and homogeneous pore structure, research on the increase of pore size beyond the previous limit of 40 μm was necessary in order to enable soft tissue replacement. A scaffold with an average pore size of 100 μm was obtained.
Effects of the Infusion Mode on Bicarbonate Balance in On-Line Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Pedrini L.A. , De Cristofaro V. , Pagliari B.
Published: January 2018

Background

Electrolyte and acid-base balance may be differently affected by the infusion mode in on-line hemodiafiltration (HDF). We studied the effects of the different infusion modes on bicarbonate transport across the dialyzer membrane, and thus on the final bicarbonate balance of the HDF sessions.

Methods

Instantaneous HCO3− transfer across the dialyzer membrane, blood bicarbonate profile and the total balance of the sessions were studied in six dialysis patients under the same operating conditions over 36 HDF sessions, in order to compare the effects of predilution HDF (pre-HDF), postdilution HDF (post-HDF), and mixed HDF on the final bicarbonate balance.

Results

The final HCO3− balance was more positive in post-HDF vs pre-HDF (142 ± 36 vs 99 ± 41 mmol/session, p<0.05), with a final blood HCO3− concentration of 26.6 ± 1.0 vs 25.4 ± 1.1 mmol/L, (p<0.05). Mixed HDF yielded intermediate results (balance: 119 ± 42 mmol/session, final HCO3− 26.2 (1.2 mmol/L). These differences were seen to result from the increased HCO3- concentration of blood entering the filter in predilution, due to the infused HCO3−, enhancing convective loss and reducing the driving force for diffusive HCO3− gain.

Conclusions

Bicarbonate concentration in dialysate-reinfusate is critical in order to obtain an adequate end of session HCO3− balance in on-line HDF. The predilution method produced the lowest cumulative net HCO3− gain between the three studied infusion modes. Our data suggest that, under the same operating conditions and excluding the effect of ultrafiltration, dialysate HCO3− should be increased by about 2 mmol/L in pre-HDF, and 1 mmol/L in mixed HDF, to yield the same final balance as in post-HDF.
The Effect of Chronic Flow Changes on Brachial Artery Diameter and Shear Stress in Arteriovenous Fistulas for Hemodialysis
Authors: Dammers R. , Tordoir J.H.M. , Welten R. J.T.H.J. , Kitslaar P. J.E.H.M , Hoeks A.P.G.
Published: January 2018

Background

Vessel wall adaptation to acute or chronic flow changes is regulated by shear stress (SS) at the endothelium. This hypothesis was tested in the brachial artery (BA) of patients receiving an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for hemodialysis vascular access.

Methods

The acute and sustained effects were evaluated in 13 patients. Pre-operatively and postoperatively on predetermined time-points BA diameter and shear rate (SR) were measured. SS was calculated from whole blood viscosity and SR. Analysis was performed with Wilcoxon's test and ANCOVA multivariate analysis.

Results

Acutely, mean SS increased (475%, p<0.05), peak-to-peak SS decreased (37%, p<0.05) and peak SS remained constant. BA diameter increased (15%, p<0.05). After one year a further increase was observed (r=0.59, p<0.001), plus an increase in mean SS (r=0.78, p<0.001). Peak-to-peak SS remained constant.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that after AVF placement an acute increase in SS results in an acute increase of vessel diameter. However, one year of sustained high blood flow does not result in restoration of mean SS.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Patients with Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction: A Prospective Randomized Study on the Timing of Perioperative Intraaortic Balloon Pump Support
Authors: Marra C. , De Santo L.S. , Amarelli C. , Corte A. Della , Onorati F. , Torella M. , Nappi G. , Cotrufo M.
Published: January 2018

In this prospective trial the results of preoperative and intraoperative IABP in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were compared. Sixty CABG patients with preoperative LVEF ≤0.30 were enrolled: in group A patients (n=30) IABP was started within 2 hours preoperatively; in group B (n=30) it was instituted intraoperatively before weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Cardiac performance was assessed through Swan-Ganz catheter monitoring and daily echocardiography. Hospital survival, length of IABP support, intubation, ICU and hospital stay, need for postoperative inotropic drugs and incidence of myocardial infarction were compared between the two groups.

Survival in group A patients proved significantly higher (P=0.047). Cardiac performance after myocardial revascularization improved in both groups with significantly better outcomes in group A patients (p<0.001). Doses of inotropic drugs (dobutamine, enoximone) were lower in group A (P=0.001; P=0.004) and duration shorter (p<0.001; p<0.001). No major IABP-related complication was observed.
Evaluation of Peripheral nerve Regeneration across an 80-mm Gap using a Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) - Collagen Nerve Conduit Filled with Laminin-soaked Collagen Sponge in Dogs
Authors: Toba T. , Shimizu Y. , Nakamura T. , Lynn A. K. , Matsumoto K. , Fukuda S. , Yoshitani M. , Hori Y.
Published: January 2018

We evaluated peripheral nerve regeneration using a novel artificial nerve conduit. The conduit was made of a polyglycolic acid(PGA) - collagen tube filled with laminin- soaked collagen sponge. We implanted this nerve conduit across an 80mm gap in the peroneal nerve of dogs. Histological observation 12 months after implantation showed numerous unmyelinated and myelinated nerve fibershad regenerated beyond the gap. Neurofilaments were widely observed immunohistochemically in the regenerated nerve segments. These findings indicated that newly regenerated axons had extended across the gap and connected into the distal nerve segments. Compound muscle action potentials(CMAPs) and somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) were recorded in all dogs. At 12 months, the CMAPs indicated complete recovery, while the SEPs showed incomplete but substantial recovery. Walking patterns had returned to near-normal 12 months after implantation. Use of this nerve conduit can lead to peripheral nerve elongation and favorable functional recovery across a wider nerve gap.