bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroma Management: Capping Nerve Injuries With an Acellular Nerve Allograft Can Limit Axon Regeneration
Authors: Hong Thomas , Wood Ian , Hunter Daniel A. , Yan Ying , Mackinnon Susan E. , Wood Matthew D. , Moore Amy M.
Published: May 2019

Background: Management of painful neuromas continues to challenge clinicians. Controlling axon growth to prevent neuroma has gained considerable traction. A logical extension of this idea is to therefore develop an approach to control and arrest axon growth. Given the limits in axonal regeneration across acellular nerve allografts (ANAs), these constructs could provide a means to reliably terminate axon regeneration from an injured nerve. The purpose of this study was to determine if attaching an ANA to an injured nerve could provide a means to control and limit axon regeneration in a predictable manner. Methods: Twenty (20) adult rats received a sciatic nerve transection, where only the proximal nerve was repaired using an ANA of variable length (0.5, 2.5, and 5.0 cm) or left unrepaired (control). The nerves were harvested 5 weeks post-operatively for gross and histomorphometric analysis. The extent of myelinated axons in regenerated tissue was quantified. Results: At 5 weeks, limited axon regeneration within the ANAs was observed. All lengths of ANAs lead to reduced myelinated axon numbers in the most terminal tissue region compared to untreated injured nerve ( P = .002). Additionally, ANA length 2.5 cm or greater did not contain any axons at the most terminal tissue region. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a proof of concept that ANAs attached to the proximal end of an injured nerve can limit axon growth in a controlled manner. Furthermore, the extent of axon growth from the injured nerve into the ANA is dependent on the ANA length.
Fault decision of computer numerical control machine system using grey clustering analysis and rough set theory
Authors: Ren Xianlin , Chen Leo , Li DeShun , Pang ZeZhao
Published: May 2019

The computer numerical control machine is important industrial equipment, and its reliability has been one of the most important symbols to measure the modernization of advanced manufacturing and it is critical in the aspects of reliability design improvement, fault monitoring, and fault repair for the computer numerical control machine. The computer numerical control machine’s assembly process is a significant part in its manufacturing process, and assembly operation is a major factor in determining the whole machine’s quality, and assembly process quality analysis is necessary for computer numerical control machines, in which reliability allocation is an essential part of its reliability design. In order to quickly locate the fault of computer numerical control machine tool and accurately judge the fault grade, a method of fault classification decision of computer numerical control machine tool based on motion micro-unit is proposed, which includes the following steps: (1) from the point of the decomposition of system function, the computer numerical control machine tool is decomposed layer by layer into the layer of micro-actions, and the conceptual model of motion unit is given; (2) from the level of action, the types of fault modes of motion units are comprehensively analyzed and summarized; and (3) combining grey clustering theory and rough set theory, a fast and accurate fault classification decision-making method is formed. Finally, the validity of this method is verified by an example analysis of motion micro-units of a computer numerical control machine rack. The contributions of this work can be summarized as (1) the proposed grey fixed weight clustering analysis, (2) the graded fault classification using the decision table approach, (3) the knowledge reduction of decision rules using the rough set theory, and (4) the quicker and accurater decision and effectiveness validated by the given study case.
Constitutional Order in Oligarchic Democracies: Neoliberal Rights versus Socio-Economic Rights
Authors: Regilme Salvador Santino F.
Published: May 2019

What is the relationship between constitutional order and the emergence of oligarchic politics in contemporary democratic societies? How and to what extent does constitutional design contribute to oligarchic politics in contemporary liberal democratic states? Focusing on constitutional discourses, rather than the legal positivist interpretation of the constitution (or constitutions as text), I maintain that state constitutions should be understood as an ideational-discursive realm of competing discourses, paradigms, and interpretations of an ideal state. My main argument states that oligarchic democracies emerge because a coalition of stakeholders that promote neoliberal understanding of the constitution has taken hold of this discursive realm of constitutional interpretation both within the state apparatus and the public sphere. Thus, the crisis of democratic representation and its relationship to constitutional design represents ideational and materialist aspects: oligarchs promote, reinforce, and sustain self-serving constitutional interpretations and discourses that reinforce the political logic of oligarchic wealth accumulation while suppressing the politics of peaceful dissent and distributive justice.
Opportunities to develop a research interest in general practice
Authors: Shukla David
Published: May 2019

Research delivery in general practice usually involves practices finding and recruiting patients eligible to enter research studies relevant to their care and treatment. The National Institute for Health and Research (NIHR)’s Clinical Research Network supports many practices across England to enable GPs and their staff to recruit patients into high-quality research studies on the NIHR portfolio. Involvement provides an additional source of income for the practice, but the main benefits are in staff development, quality improvement, and the ability to offer patients opportunities to contribute to important research activity. Individual GP involvement provides satisfying exposure to academic activity, which can contribute to a portfolio career or stimulate further learning or development in research activity. This article provides an overview of research delivery in the general practice setting, including resources available, consideration of the practicalities and examples of studies offered.
Moderate-to-Vigorous-Intensity Physical Activity Observed in People With Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcers Over a One-Week Period
Authors: Lee Maggie , van Netten Jaap J. , Sheahan Helen , Lazzarini Peter A.
Published: May 2019

Background:

Regular moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity results in health benefits in people with diabetes. No study has observed the moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity typically performed by people with diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU) in their everyday free-living environments. We observed the bouts, and accumulated time, spent doing moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity in cases with DFU compared with diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and diabetes (DM) controls over a one-week period.

Methods:

This was a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional case-control study. Participants wore a multisensor device for >5 days (>22 hours per day). Primary outcomes included the number, duration (minutes) and intensity (metabolic equivalent tasks [METs]) of bouts of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (defined as at least >3 METs for >10 consecutive minutes). Secondary outcomes included the total accumulated times spent doing moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (>3 METs) and doing sedentary-intensity activity (<1.5 METs). DFU subgroups with minor amputations and nonremovable offloading devices were also analyzed.

Results:

Overall, 15 DM, 23 DPN, and 27 DFU participants were included. All groups recorded similar low median daily numbers (0.33, 0.29, 0.25 numbers, respectively), duration (15, 17, 14 minutes), and intensity of daily bouts of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (4.1, 4.3, 3.9 METs) (all, P > .1). Median accumulated daily time spent doing moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity was also similar (40, 37, 36 minutes; P > .8). Those with DFU had more mean accumulated daily time spent doing sedentary-intensity activity (796 minutes) compared to DPN (720 minutes; P < .05), but not compared to DM (728 minutes; P < .08). DFU subgroups with minor amputations had more median accumulated daily time spent doing moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (66, 28 minutes; P < .05) and less mean time doing sedentary-intensity activity (745, 837; P < .05) than those without amputations.

Conclusions:

People with DFU performed similar low numbers of daily bouts of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity to controls, but spend more time doing sedentary-intensity activities. Interventions that gradually increase the moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity in people with DFU should be investigated.
Maternal Loeys–Dietz syndrome (transforming growth factor ligand 2) in a twin pregnancy: Case report and discussion
Authors: Bashari Homira , Brooks Alexandra , O’Brien Orla , Brennecke Shaun , Zentner Dominica
Published: May 2019

Loeys–Dietz syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder. Pregnant women with Loeys–Dietz syndrome are at increased risk of serious vascular and visceral complications, including aortic dissection and uterine rupture. Multidisciplinary tertiary management aims to mitigate such complications by preconception counselling and vascular assessment, medical therapy, regular echocardiography in pregnancy and joint decision-making re-mode and timing of delivery. We report an in vitro fertilisation twin pregnancy in a woman with Loeys–Dietz syndrome first seen at our institution at 26 weeks’ gestation. After monitoring via serial echocardiograms, caesarean delivery occurred at 30 + 1 weeks’ gestation to allow planned delivery with suspected fetal growth restriction before uterine distension was considered an indication. The patient was discharged on Day 9 with a planned early aortic root replacement due to an increase in diameter from 39 to 43 mm, followed by the discharge of twin boys at term equivalent.
Laparoscopic resection of bilateral perinephric pseudocyst in a pediatric feline patient
Authors: Placer Margaret Amparo , McManis Cindy
Published: May 2019

Case summary

A 6-month-old male domestic shorthair cat presenting with abdominal distension and an acute history of renal azotemia was diagnosed with bilateral perinephric pseudocysts and International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) grade 3 acute kidney injury. Ultrasound-guided drainage of the cysts was performed initially; bilateral subtotal resection of the perinephric pseudocysts was later performed using laparoscopy as a more long-term solution. There was no regrowth or reformation of the perinephric pseudocysts 1 year after the procedure, and the cat remained in IRIS stage 2 chronic kidney disease 1 year postoperatively.

Relevance and novel information

Compared with traditional surgical approaches, laparoscopic resection of perinephric pseudocysts provides a less invasive approach. Bilateral perinephric pseudocyst in a pediatric feline patient (and associated treatment) has not previously been documented in the literature.
Intraseptal Mucocele as a Long-term Complication of Revision Septorhinoplasty: A Case Report and Review of a Rare Entity
Authors: Rawl Jordan W. , Rossi Nicholas A. , Chaaban Mohamad R. , Brindley Paul
Published: May 2019

Paranasal sinus mucoceles are benign, expansive, cystic lesions which arise from retention of mucus secretions. They arise primarily in the setting of cystic degeneration of the sinus mucosa or secondarily in the setting of obstruction of the sinus ostium due to mucosal trauma or chronic inflammation. Septal mucoceles are rare. Only 10 cases to our knowledge have previously been reported. Patients are exclusively male, in their middle years, usually with a history of nasal trauma or nasal surgery. Nasal obstruction followed by headache present for 3 months to a year are the most common presenting symptoms. Here, we present a case of septal mucocele with dystrophic bone formation in a 57-year-old man arising 35 years after open septorhinoplasty treated successfully with total excision via an endoscopic, endoseptal approach. A review of the available literature was conducted to provide a consolidated update on diagnosis and management.
How (not) to measure democracy
Authors: Boese Vanessa A
Published: May 2019

Measures of democracy are regularly employed in the statistical analysis of economic, political, and social policy. This paper reviews the measures" setup, strength, and weaknesses across the three most prominent democracy datasets: PolityIV, Freedom House, and Varieties of Democracy. The measures developed by the Varieties of Democracy project outperform Polity2 and Freedom House Index with respect to the underlying definition and measurement scale, as well as the theoretical justification of the aggregation procedure. The three indices display a high level of agreement for those observations included in all three datasets. The most substantial differences between the indices lie in the indices’ coverage, i.e. in their non-missing observations (in Polity2 coding, for example, years during which a country is occupied by foreign powers constitute missing values), the availability of disaggregate data and the above mentioned key areas. This paper clarifies when to proceed with caution, but for the most part advocates the use of Varieties of Democracy in the statistical analysis of democracy.
Coviewing Educational Media: Does Coviewing Help Low-Income Preschoolers Learn Auditory and Audiovisual Vocabulary Associations?
Authors: Samudra Preeti G. , Flynn Rachel M. , Wong Kevin M.
Published: May 2019

Coviewing media is a practice commonly recommended to parents of young children. However, little is known about how coviewing might scaffold the vocabulary learning of low-income preschoolers. The present study focused on how coviewing educational media influences children’s learning of two different vocabulary associations—auditory-only and audiovisual vocabulary associations. We additionally studied whether children with weaker baseline vocabularies might particularly benefit from coviewing. One hundred twenty-eight low-income preschoolers viewed five educational media clips either with an adult coviewer or alone. Audiovisual and auditory vocabulary associations were then assessed. Results show that coviewing did not support vocabulary learning overall but did specifically support the development of auditory-only vocabulary associations for children with weaker baseline vocabularies. This suggests that coviewing may not provide a ubiquitous benefit but rather predicts learning in the mode of coviewer input (auditory) specifically for the children who need additional supports the most.
Reasons for attending support groups and organizational preferences: A replication study using the North American Scleroderma Support Group Survey
Authors: Pépin Mia , Kwakkenbos Linda , Carrier Marie-Eve , Peláez Sandra , El-Baalbaki Ghassan , Malcarne Vanessa L , Thombs Brett D ,   the Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Support Group Project Advisory Team
Published: May 2019

Peer-facilitated support groups are an important source for receiving disease-related information and support for people with systemic sclerosis (or scleroderma). A recent survey explored reasons for attending systemic sclerosis support groups in Europe and Australia and used exploratory factor analysis to group reasons for attendance into three main themes: (1) interpersonal and social support, (2) disease treatment and symptom management strategies, and (3) other aspects of living with systemic sclerosis. The objective of the present study was to replicate this study in a sample of patients from North America using confirmatory factor analysis. A 30-item survey was used to assess reasons for attendance and organizational preferences among systemic sclerosis patients in Canada and the United States. In total, 171 members completed the survey. In the confirmatory factor analysis, the three-factor model showed good fit to the data (χ2(399) = 646.0, p < 0.001, Tucker–Lewis index = 0.97, comparative fit index = 0.97, root mean square error approximation = 0.06). On average, respondents rated 22 (73%) of 30 items as “important” or “very important” reasons for attending support groups. Among organizational preferences, respondents emphasized the importance of the ability to share feelings and concerns, as well as educational aspects. Findings of our study suggest that reasons for attending support groups are similar for patients from Europe, Australia, and North America and that support groups should facilitate social support as well as disease education. These results inform the development of training programs for current and future systemic sclerosis support group leaders across the globe.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus and Hearing Loss: A Pilot Cross‐Sectional Survey of Otologists’ and Pediatric Otolaryngologists’ Knowledge
Authors: Dedhia Kavita , Tomlinson Jennifer , Murray Nancy , Park Albert
Published: May 2019

Objective

To evaluate pediatric otolaryngologists, neurotologists, and otologists on awareness and knowledge of congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV).

Study Design

Pilot cross‐sectional online survey.

Setting

Otolaryngology practices.

Subjects and Methods

An electronic multiple‐choice questionnaire was sent email listserv to physician members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology and American Otological Society. The survey assessed demographics, physician awareness, and practice patterns. Data were collected and analyzed.

Results

Seventy (14.5%) pediatric otolaryngologists and otologists responded. All responded that they are familiar with cCMV. Most were familiar with symptoms associated with cCMV with the exception of petechia/purpura. Less than 50% knew the incidence/natural history of cCMV‐induced hearing loss. Only 63% knew that saliva or urine polymerase chain reaction/culture should be performed prior to 3 weeks of age. Less than half knew the indications for dry blood spot testing, and many incorrectly recommended serologic saliva or urine testing in a child >3 weeks old. Most respondents do not offer any diagnostic testing for cCMV or referral for antiviral therapy for those who may benefit from this treatment. Most either did not know the cCMV screening policy or did not have one at their institution.

Conclusion

Despite a relatively low overall response rate, this study suggests several knowledge gaps and underutilization of cCMV testing by physicians who frequently encounter pediatric hearing loss. The findings from this pilot study demonstrate the need for further educational directives focused on cCMV to improve knowledge and incorporation of cCMV best practices.
The Unmet Need for Pharmacists as Important Members of the Emergency Department Team in Resource-Limited Settings: A Case of Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Sunil , Danekhu Krisha , Thapa Santosh , Khanal Saval , Shankar P. Ravi
Published: May 2019

Background: The role of pharmacists in many developed countries has evolved from the traditional practice of dispensing medicines to contributing directly or indirectly to improve patient health outcomes. They are providing hospital services and patient care including services in the emergency department (ED). However, there is limited evidence for pharmacist involvement in the ED from resource-limited countries such as Nepal. Objective: The aim of this study is to discuss the role of pharmacists and highlight the unmet need of pharmacists in ED in Nepal. Methods: A narrative review of existing literature was conducted. Results: The status of ED services in Nepalese hospitals is not yet at a desirable level, and there is limited information about the role of pharmacists in EDs. Evidence obtained from developed nations on the role of pharmacists in EDs suggests that they help in improving patient outcomes by minimizing medication errors, adverse drug reactions, and enhance patient care. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for pharmacists in EDs in resource-limited settings. There is limited evidence of pharmacists’ role in EDs from Nepal. Therefore, this study suggests a need for further studies on the possible contribution of pharmacists to ED services in Nepal.
Marijuana use in U.S. teen drivers: a comparison of a road-side survey of reported use and fluid tests for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Authors: Pressley Joyce C. , Arora Arushi , Sarmah Raina
Published: May 2019

Background

Although the growth of state-level legalization of marijuana is aimed at increasing availability for adults and the chronically ill, one fear is that this trend may also increase accessibility in younger populations. The objectives of this study are to evaluate marijuana use in teen driver study participants and to compare their survey self-reported use with oral fluid and blood tests for psychoactive metabolites of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Methods

The National Roadside Survey (NRS) of 2013–2014 was used to examine marijuana use in drivers aged 16–19 years. Of 11,100 drivers surveyed at 300 U.S. locations in 24 states, 718 were 16–19 years, and 666 (92.8%) provided oral fluid and/or blood. We examined weighted and unweighted data, but present unweighted findings. Kappa statistics, Chi square, and multivariable logistic regressions were used to assess agreement, associations and independent predictors of outcomes.

Results

More than one-quarter (203/718) of teen drivers reported either using marijuana in the last year or were THC positive. Overall incidence of a THC positive fluid test was 13.7%. In addition to 175 (27.3%) teen drivers who reported use in the last year, 28 (4.4%) who denied using in the past year, tested positive for THC. Of 45 teen drivers reporting use in the last 24 h, more than two-thirds (71.1%) were THC positive. Disagreement between the oral and blood test for 305 teen drivers who had both tests was 17 (5.6%), with a Kappa of 0.78 (95% CI 0.69–0.88). Of THC-positive drivers, nearly 20% started drinking alcohol by age 14 and more than 70% by age 16. Age, gender- and income-adjusted independent predictors of a positive THC test included survey completion during the school year (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.6–6.2), survey-reported marijuana use in last year (OR 5.3, 95% CI 3.0–9.2), current smoker (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–3.7), and alcohol consumption before age 16 (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–3.7).

Conclusions

Although specific THC thresholds for safe driving have not been established, taken in the context of teen crash statistics, THC documented impairments and rapidly relaxing marijuana laws, these findings suggest the need for increased vigilance and stepped-up surveillance in teen drivers.
More is not always better—non-linear effects in crowdfunding
Authors: Niemand Thomas , Kraus Sascha , Angerer Martin , Thies Ferdinand , Mas-Tur Alicia
Published: May 2019

This research focuses on crowdfunding project features and its relation with the success of this project. The main purpose is to improve probability of success of crowdfunding projects. One can argue that “more is always better” resulting in attempts of daily updates. Contrarily, backers may be weary of numerous updates to work through, indicating a possible wear-out effect, implying the existence of an optimal level of updates. Our preliminary results show that previous research, built upon linear modeling, widely ignores important aspects of the relationship between key variables. We therefore picked six key variables that were previously marked as success drivers in crowdfunding and found most remarkably that none of the six variables clearly follows a linear pattern. These findings call for further investigation of the non-linear patterns within crowdfunding research.
Disorganization of spleen compartments and dermatitis in canine visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Santana Claudia C. , de Freitas Luiz A. R. , Oliveira Geraldo G. S. , dos-Santos Washington L. C.
Published: May 2019

Canine visceral leishmaniasis is associated with splenic changes that may interfere with the surveillance of blood borne antigens. Dogs with terminal visceral leishmaniasis present with a variety of skin lesions that may reflect a failure of the immune system to cope with infection. In this study, we compare the frequency of dermatitis in dogs from an endemic area of visceral leishmaniasis and take account of the following parameters: presence/absence of laboratory markers of infection and susceptibility to visceral leishmaniasis, and presence/absence of splenic structural changes associated with severe forms of the disease. Dermatitis was present in 48 of 64 (75%) of the animals. Dermatitis was more frequent in animals with positive splenic culture and negative leishmanin skin test (14/15, 93%) than in non-infected controls (P = 0.01). Diffuse dermatitis was present only in animals with evidence of Leishmania infection. Diffuse dermatitis was also more frequent in animals with positive (9/27, 33%) as opposed to negative (3/34, 9%) serology against Leishmania (P = 0.01). Presence of dermatitis correlated with both perisplenitis (P = 0.03) and with an increase in plasma cell density in the splenic tissue (P = 0.02). Diffuse dermatitis also correlated with splenic lymphoid tissue disorganization (P = 0.03) and germinal center atrophy (P < 0.01). The relationship between chronic dermatitis and spleen disorganization suggests an impairment of immune response to deal with skin aggressions in dogs with severe forms of visceral leishmaniasis. It also suggest that skin biopsy can be used in a model to define severity of canine visceral leishmaniasis.
Asymptotic solution to a 3D dipole single-well imaging system with combined monopole and dipole receivers with an application in elimination of azimuth ambiguity
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , Hu Hengshan , Wang Zhi
Published: May 2019

Single-well imaging (SWI) is a borehole measurement technique aimed at detecting geologic interfaces or structures tens of meters away from the borehole. In SWI, acoustic signals generated by a monopole or a dipole source in the borehole are reflected by geologic interfaces and received by arrays of receivers of the same type. Current SWI cannot determine the azimuth angle of the geologic interfaces uniquely. We have developed a new SWI system with combined dipole and monopole receivers for a dipole source. This system can be used to determine the azimuth angle uniquely. The other difficult issue is to quickly simulate the wavefield of SWI to meet the needs of real-time data processing in field logging. We derive asymptotic solutions of the horizontal displacement and the fluid pressure for the reflected wave from the geologic interfaces in this nonaxisymmetric system. The radiation fields of a monopole and a dipole are computed using the steepest-descent integration method. The wave reflected from a reflector outside the borehole is proved to be equivalent to the radiation of a virtual source outside the borehole. We use the reciprocity relation between the virtual source and a monopole or a dipole source to obtain the asymptotic solutions of fluid pressure or horizontal displacement for the reflected wave. The asymptotic results agree well with those from 3D finite-difference simulation. The asymptotic solution demonstrates the polarity of fluid pressure changes when the azimuth angle changes by 180°. Based on the characteristics of asymptotic solutions, we evaluate a scheme to determine the azimuth uniquely.
Nearly perfectly matched layer absorber for viscoelastic wave equations
Authors: Wang Enjiang , Carcione José M. , Ba Jing , Alajmi Mamdoh , Qadrouh Ayman N.
Published: May 2019

We have applied the nearly perfectly matched layer (N-PML) absorber to the viscoelastic wave equation based on the Kelvin-Voigt and Zener constitutive equations. In the first case, the stress-strain relation has the advantage of not requiring additional physical field (memory) variables, whereas the Zener model is more adapted to describe the behavior of rocks subject to wave propagation in the whole frequency range. In both cases, eight N-PML artificial memory variables are required in the absorbing strips. The modeling simulates 2D waves by using two different approaches to compute the spatial derivatives, generating different artifacts from the boundaries, namely, 16th-order finite differences, where reflections from the boundaries are expected, and the staggered Fourier pseudospectral method, where wraparound occurs. The time stepping in both cases is a staggered second-order finite-difference scheme. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the N-PML has a similar performance as in the lossless case. Comparisons with other approaches (S-PML and C-PML) are carried out for several models, which indicate the advantages and drawbacks of the N-PML absorber in the anelastic case.
Kantorovich-Rubinstein misfit for inverting gravity-gradient data by the level-set method
Authors: Huang Guanghui , Zhang Xinming , Qian Jianliang
Published: May 2019

We have developed a novel Kantorovich-Rubinstein (KR) norm-based misfit function to measure the mismatch between gravity-gradient data for the inverse gradiometry problem. Under the assumption that an anomalous mass body has an unknown compact support with a prescribed constant value of density contrast, we implicitly parameterize the unknown mass body by a level-set function. Because the geometry of an underlying anomalous mass body may experience various changes during inversion in terms of level-set evolution, the classic least-squares ([Formula: see text]-norm-based) and the [Formula: see text]-norm-based misfit functions for governing the level-set evolution may potentially induce local minima if an initial guess of the level-set function is far from that of the target model. The KR norm from the optimal transport theory computes the data misfit by comparing the modeled data and the measured data in a global manner, leading to better resolution of the differences between the inverted model and the target model. Combining the KR norm with the level-set method yields a new effective methodology that is not only able to mitigate local minima but is also robust against random noise for the inverse gradiometry problem. Numerical experiments further demonstrate that the new KR norm-based misfit function is able to recover deep dipping flanks of SEG/EAGE salt models even at extremely low signal-to-noise ratios. The new methodology can be readily applied to gravity and magnetic data as well.
Lgr5+ stem and progenitor cells reside at the apex of a heterogeneous embryonic hepatoblast pool
Authors: Prior Nicole , Hindley Christopher J. , Rost Fabian , Meléndez Elena , Lau Winnie W. Y. , Göttgens Berthold , Rulands Steffen , Simons Benjamin D. , Huch Meritxell
Published: May 2019

During mouse embryogenesis, progenitors within the liver known as hepatoblasts give rise to adult hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. Hepatoblasts, which are specified at E8.5-E9.0, have been regarded as a homogeneous progenitor population that initiate differentiation from E13.5. Recently, scRNA-seq analysis has identified sub-populations of transcriptionally distinct hepatoblasts at E11.5. Here, we show that hepatoblasts are not only transcriptionally but also functionally heterogeneous, and that a subpopulation of E9.5-E10.0 hepatoblasts exhibit a previously unidentified early commitment to cholangiocyte fate. Importantly, we also identify a subpopulation constituting 2% of E9.5-E10.0 hepatoblasts that express the adult stem cell marker Lgr5, and generate both hepatocyte and cholangiocyte progeny that persist for the lifespan of the mouse. Combining lineage tracing and scRNA-seq, we show that Lgr5 marks E9.5-E10.0 bipotent liver progenitors residing at the apex of a hepatoblast hierarchy. Furthermore, isolated Lgr5+ hepatoblasts can be clonally expanded in vitro into embryonic liver organoids, which can commit to either hepatocyte or cholangiocyte fates. Our study demonstrates functional heterogeneity within E9.5 hepatoblasts and identifies Lgr5 as a marker for a subpopulation of bipotent liver progenitors.
Radiological diagnosis of the inner ear malformations in children with sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Quirk Bernadine , Youssef Adam , Ganau Mario , D'Arco Felice
Published: May 2019

Malformations in either the inner ear, vestibulocochlear nerve (VIIIth) or auditory cortex of the brain can lead to congenital sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). In most cases the underlying disorders involve the membranous labyrinth at a microscopic level and therefore radiological examinations are entirely normal. In a significant proportion however (up to 20%), there are abnormalities visualized in the inner ear and/or the VIIIth nerve; the type of abnormality is relevant for the surgical planning of a cochlear implant. Imaging and the accurate radiological identification of the affected inner ear structures therefore plays an integral role in the clinical evaluation of sensorineural hearing loss. In this pictorial review, we describe the main malformations of the inner ear in view of recent classifications and briefly explore the surgical implications.
Extensive profiling in Arabidopsis reveals abundant polysome-associated 24-nt small RNAs including AGO5-dependent pseudogene-derived siRNAs
Authors: Marchais Antonin , Chevalier Clément , Voinnet Olivier
Published: May 2019

In a reductionist perspective, plant silencing small (s)RNAs are often classified as mediating nuclear transcriptional gene silencing (TGS) or cytosolic posttranscriptional gene silencing (PTGS). Among the PTGS diagnostics is the association of AGOs and their sRNA cargos with the translation apparatus. In Arabidopsis, this is observed for AGO1 loaded with micro(mi)RNAs and, accordingly, translational-repression (TR) is one layer of plant miRNA action. Using AGO1:miRNA-mediated TR as a paradigm, we explored, with two unrelated polysome-isolation methods, which, among the ten Arabidopsis AGOs and numerous sRNA classes, interact with translation. We found that representatives of all three AGO-clades associate with polysomes, including the TGS-effector AGO4 and stereotypical 24-nt sRNAs that normally mediate TGS of transposons/repeats. Strikingly, approximately half of these annotated 24-nt siRNAs displayed unique matches in coding regions/introns of genes, and in pseudogenes, but not in transposons/repeats commonly found in their vicinity. Protein-coding gene-derived 24-nt sRNAs correlate with gene-body methylation. Those derived from pseudogenes belong to two main clusters defined by their parental-gene expression patterns, and are vastly enriched in AGO5, itself found on polysomes. Based on their tight expression pattern in developing and mature siliques, their biogenesis, and genomic/epigenomic features of their loci-of-origin, we discuss potential roles for these hitherto unknown polysome-enriched, pseudogene-derived siRNAs.
Contrast-associated acute kidney injury: does it really exist, and if so, what to do about it?
Authors: Vandenberghe Wim , Hoste Eric
Published: May 2019

For decades, when contrast agents are administrated, physicians have been concerned because of the risk of inducing acute kidney injury (AKI). Recent literature questions the existence of AKI induced by contrast, but animal studies clearly showed harmful effects. The occurrence of contrast-associated AKI was likely overestimated in the past because of confounders for AKI. Several strategies have been investigated to reduce contrast-associated AKI but even for the most important one, hydration, there are conflicting data. Even if the occurrence rate of contrast-associated AKI is low, AKI is related to worse outcomes. Therefore, besides limiting contrast agent usage, general AKI preventive measurements should be applied in at-risk patients.
Case Report: Pancytopenia as an indicator for lysosomal storage disease (Gaucher's Disease)
Authors: Ortega-Rosales Alberto , Burneo-Rosales Carlos , Romero-Ulloa Gilda , Burneo-Rosales Gabriela
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Lysosomal storage disorders are a rare group of diseases with genetic origin in which Gaucher Disease (GD) stands out as the most frequent. GD type 1 is the most common form of this condition, and patients with this pathology present with unexplained cytopenias, in addition to hepatosplenomegaly, bone involvement, and in other cases neurological disorders. A case of a patient is presented, whose results showed thrombocytopenia and leukopenia in addition to hepatosplenomegaly. In Latin America, there are very few reported cases of this clinical entity, and information on this disease is very limited.

Case: We present a case of a patient diagnosed with GD, who presented with thrombocytopenia and leukopenia in addition to hepatosplenomegaly, with the aim of emphasizing the importance of early recognition of this pathology, especially in patients with unexplained cytopenia’s or hepatosplenomegaly’s. In suspicion of GD, enzymatic quantification of β-glucocerebrosidase was performed, showing its deficit in addition to alteration in the GBA gene. Unfortunately, enzymatic replacement could not be done because the Cerazyme (imiglucerase for injection) is not available in Ecuador. Nevertheless, the patient was treated with analgesic (1g of paracetamol generally three times a day) and vitamin supplements (Dayamineral). Currently the patient is waiting for transfer to a foreign institution; she continues with bicytopenia and hepatosplenomegaly, her conditions are expected to be remit once the enzymatic treatment has been administered.    

Conclusion: We believe that the timely recognition of this disease will allow the initiation of enzymatic replacement therapy in an effective manner, in order to reduce morbidity and improve the clinical aspects of the patient.
Orofacial manifestations of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis: a case series from Brazil
Authors: Falcão Gleicy Gabriela Vitória Spinola Carneiro , Lins-Kusterer Liliane , Leite-Ribeiro Patricia Miranda , Sarmento Viviane Almeida
Published: May 2019

The dental surgeon plays a fundamental role in the early diagnosis of oral leishmaniasis, since oral mucosa may be the primary site of the disease manifestation. This study reports seven clinical cases of orofacial mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. All had mucocutaneous leishmaniasis with oropharyngeal involvement confirmed by laboratory tests. Five out of the seven cases were males, and in four cases, patients had associated comorbidities. Late diagnosis was observed, resulting in treatment delay and increased hospitalization stay. One patient had severe psychological consequences due to facial deformity. The lack of differential diagnosis due the great variability of clinical presentation of the lesions and frequent unspecific histopathology represent a challenge for the dental surgeon. In two reported cases, there were unspecific biopsy results. The multidisciplinary approach plays an important role in orofacial leishmaniasis diagnosis and treatment. Leishmaniasis should be investigated in case of atypical and persistent lesions in patients from endemic regions. This recommendation may avoid diagnosis delays and decrease dissemination of the disease.
Implementing a community vector collection strategy for monitoring vector-borne diseases in Ghana
Authors: Boakye Daniel A. , Frempong Kwadwo K. , Ogoussan Kisito T. , Otoo Samson , Rebollo Polo Maria , Dadzie Samuel K. , de Souza Dziedzom  K.
Published: May 2019

Background: Monitoring vector-borne diseases requires sampling of very large numbers of disease vectors in order to corroborate infections in the human population. This can be challenging, as current vector collection tools are either inefficient, or expensive to implement from a public health perspective. To circumvent this challenge, this study compared a community vector collection strategy using a double-netted mosquito collection method (a tent trap (TT)) to the traditional human landing collection (HLC) method in three communities in lymphatic filariasis-endemic districts in Ghana.

Methods: Following community entry and sensitization, community volunteers appointed by the community leaders were trained in the mosquito collection and storage methods and provided with supplies for mosquito collection over a 7-month period. They were visited occasionally by the study team to retrieve the mosquito samples for identification. The collectors were also assessed to evaluate their perspectives on using community vector collectors for monitoring vector-borne diseases.

Results: The results of the study indicated that the TT method collected significantly more mosquitoes (63%) over the collection period than HLC (37%). Thus, the TTs were observed to be performing relatively better than the HLC (P<0.001). The collectors knew the importance of mosquitoes in transmitting diseases, could identify the main diseases that were locally transmitted within their communities. They appreciated the involvement of the community in the collection as this enhanced community ownership of the programme as well as providing some financial incentives to those directly involved in the collection.

Conclusions: The study revealed that use of community volunteers for the collection of mosquitoes for xenomonitoring purposes can be a viable strategy in the monitoring of vector-borne diseases. However, further development of the strategies and assessments of the costs involved will be required to make this a sustainable approach to monitoring vector-borne disease interventions and enhance community ownership of the programmes.
Nanotechnology in mechanical engineering
Authors: Волков Георгий , Volkov Georgiy
Published: May 2019

The textbook describes the theoretical foundations and technological methods of implementation of the unique properties of the nanoscale state of matter in engineering. Examples of implementation of unique properties of materials of this class in engineering products with consumer properties above the world level are given. The theoretical basis of design and production technology of metamaterials, which are a logical continuation and the next stage of development of traditional nanomaterial science.. Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standard of higher education of the last generation. For graduate students of engineering universities. It can be useful to engineers and technicians as an introductory course in the scientific and technical direction "Nanotechnology" for the use of new generation materials in the development of engineering products.
Shelf life
Authors: Khan Amina
Published: May 2019

How – and why – one setting created a library for two-year-olds and their parents. By Amina Khan, early childhood educator at Everton Nursery School and Family Centre in Liverpool
Thoracic proportions in children without scoliosis
Authors: Kennedy J , Hoffman T. , Unasa H. , Frampton C. , Howard A. , Kiely P. J. , Crawford H.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Scoliosis is a condition of abnormal growth resulting in 3D deformity of both the spine and thoracic cage. The aim of this study is to use chest radiographs of healthy children to define normal thoracic proportions so as to provide a useful normal reference range against which children with spinal deformity can be compared.

Methods

Three independent reviewers assessed posteroanterior and lateral chest radiographs of 184 normal children aged between two and 15 years. Duplicate assessments were undertaken by all three raters on 36 of these radiographs. We measured the T1 to T12 length, sternal length, chest depth at T6, chest width at T3, chest width at T6 and maximum chest width. Ratios of thoracic dimensions were calculated to define the normal proportions of the thorax. Inter- and intra-rater variance was estimated for all dimensions and dimension ratios.

Results

The intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was excellent with intra-class-correlation coefficients values > 80% and both intra- and inter-rater coefficients of variance < 9% for all parameters. All measured dimensions of the thorax and spine progressed linearly with respect to age. The mean proportions of T1 to 12 length of the sternal length, chest depth at T6, chest width at T3, chest width at T6 and maximum chest width were 0.5, 0.4, 0.7, 0.9 and 1.0, respectively.

Conclusion

It is possible to accurately and reproducibly measure the dimensions of the thoracic cage and spine on plain film radiology. The ratios of T1 to T12 length with respect to sternal length, chest depth at T6, chest width at T3, chest width at T6 and maximum chest remain constant with increasing age. Thoracic dimensions in children progress linearly with increasing age.

Level of Evidence

V
Does lateral lift-off occur in static and dynamic activity in a medially spherical total knee arthroplasty? A pulsed-fluoroscopic investigation
Authors: Key S. , Scott G. , Stammers J. G. , Freeman M. A. R. , Pinskerova V. , Field R. E. , Skinner J. , Banks S. A.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

The medially spherical GMK Sphere (Medacta International AG, Castel San Pietro, Switzerland) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was previously shown to accommodate lateral rollback while pivoting around a stable medial compartment, aiming to replicate native knee kinematics in which some coronal laxity, especially laterally, is also present. We assess coronal plane kinematics of the GMK Sphere and explore the occurrence and pattern of articular separation during static and dynamic activities.

Methods

Using pulsed fluoroscopy and image matching, the coronal kinematics and articular surface separation of 16 well-functioning TKAs were studied during weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing, static, and dynamic activities. The closest distances between the modelled articular surfaces were examined with respect to knee position, and proportions of joint poses exhibiting separation were computed.

Results

Overall, 1717 joint poses were analyzed. At a 1.0 mm detection threshold, 37 instances of surface separation were observed in the lateral compartment and four medially (p < 0.001). Separation was activity-dependent, both laterally and medially (p < 0.001), occurring more commonly during static deep flexion in the lateral compartment, and during static rotation in the medial compartment. Lateral separation occurred more frequently than medial during kneeling (7/14 lateral vs 1/14 medial; p = 0.031) and stepping (20/1022 lateral vs 0/1022 medial; p < 0.001). Separation varied significantly between individuals during dynamic activities.

Conclusion

No consistent association between closest distances of the articular surfaces and knee position was found during any activity. Lift-off was infrequent and depended on the activity performed and the individual knee. Lateral separation was consistent with the design rationale. Medial lift-off was rare and mostly in non-weight-bearing activities. Cite this article: S. Key, G. Scott, J. G. Stammers, M. A. R. Freeman†, V. Pinskerova, R. E. Field, J. Skinner, S. A. Banks. Does lateral lift-off occur in static and dynamic activity in a medially spherical total knee arthroplasty? A pulsed-fluoroscopic investigation. Bone Joint Res 2019;8:207–215. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.85.BJR-2018-0237.R1.