bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Vestibular Stimulation Modulates Neural Correlates of Own-body Mental Imagery
Authors: Klaus Manuel P. , Wyssen Gerda C. , Frank Sebastian M. , Malloni Wilhelm M. , Greenlee Mark W. , Mast Fred W. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
There is growing evidence that vestibular information is not only involved in reflexive eye movements and the control of posture but it also plays an important role in higher order cognitive processes. Previous behavioral research has shown that concomitant vestibular stimuli influence performance in tasks that involve imagined self-rotations. These results suggest that imagined and perceived body rotations share common mechanisms. However, the nature and specificity of these effects remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the neural mechanisms underlying this vestibulocognitive interaction. Participants (n = 20) solved an imagined self-rotation task during caloric vestibular stimulation. We found robust main effects of caloric vestibular stimulation in the core region of the vestibular network, including the rolandic operculum and insula bilaterally, and of the cognitive task in parietal and frontal regions. Interestingly, we found an interaction of stimulation and task in the left inferior parietal lobe, suggesting that this region represents the modulation of imagined body rotations by vestibular input. This result provides evidence that the inferior parietal lobe plays a crucial role in the neural integration of mental and physical body rotation.
PERSIANN Dynamic Infrared–Rain Rate Model (PDIR) for High-Resolution, Real-Time Satellite Precipitation Estimation
Authors: Nguyen Phu , Shearer Eric J. , Ombadi Mohammed , Gorooh Vesta Afzali , Hsu Kuolin , Sorooshian Soroosh , Logan William S. , Ralph Marty 
Published: November 2019

AbstractPrecipitation measurements with high spatiotemporal resolution are a vital input for hydrometeorological and water resources studies; decision-making in disaster management; and weather, climate, and hydrological forecasting. Moreover, real-time precipitation estimation with high precision is pivotal for the monitoring and managing of catastrophic hydroclimate disasters such as flash floods, which frequently transpire after extreme rainfall. While algorithms that exclusively use satellite infrared data as input are attractive owing to their rich spatiotemporal resolution and near-instantaneous availability, their sole reliance on cloud-top brightness temperature (Tb) readings causes underestimates in wet regions and overestimates in dry regions—this is especially evident over the western contiguous United States (CONUS). We introduce an algorithm, the Precipitation Estimations from Remotely Sensed Information Using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN) Dynamic Infrared–Rain rate model (PDIR), which utilizes climatological data to construct a dynamic (i.e., laterally shifting) Tb–rain rate relationship that has several notable advantages over other quantitative precipitation-estimation algorithms and noteworthy skill over the western CONUS. Validation of PDIR over the western CONUS shows a promising degree of skill, notably at the annual scale, where it performs well in comparison to other satellite-based products. Analysis of two extreme landfalling atmospheric rivers show that solely IR-based PDIR performs reasonably well compared to other IR- and PMW-based satellite rainfall products, marking its potential to be effective in real-time monitoring of extreme storms. This research suggests that IR-based algorithms that contain the spatiotemporal richness and near-instantaneous availability needed for rapid natural hazards response may soon contain the skill needed for hydrologic and water resource applications.
Reflex and reflective testing practice in Clinical Biochemistry in the United Kingdom – a national survey
Authors: McKeeman Gareth C , Hall Sally L , Freedman Danielle B 
Published: November 2019

Background/aims The addition of further tests to patient samples, whether by reflex (automated) methods or reflectively after result review, remains an important function of the diagnostic laboratory. This can assist clinicians with interpretation of results and aid further management. We aimed to investigate how this is performed within Clinical Biochemistry laboratories across the United Kingdom (UK). Methods A questionnaire, consisting of 16 clinical scenarios, was circulated to Clinical Biochemistry laboratories across the UK via the Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine (ACB) office. The survey sought to examine opinion on what tests are considered reflex and reflective, which staff members are involved in addition of further tests, whether clinicians are contacted and how abnormal results are handled. Results Responses were received from 74 laboratories, and data were compiled for each scenario surveyed. The majority of laboratories are adding calcium and magnesium, reflectively, to confirm hyperkalaemia or hypocalcaemia, and a number of additional endocrine tests are also commonly performed in particular scenarios. However, there are variations in what is regarded as reflex and reflective testing, in how this testing is conducted within the laboratory and in the level of communication with the requesting clinician. Discussion We present the consensus views of the survey participants for a number of commonly used additional tests within Clinical Biochemistry and a discussion on current reflex and reflective testing practice based on the survey results and evidence, where it exists. There is a need for harmonization and national guidance in this area.
Ramifications of variability in sex hormone-binding globulin measurement by different immunoassays on the calculation of free testosterone
Authors: Adaway Joanne , Keevil Brian , Miller Annmarie , Monaghan Phillip J , Merrett Nicola , Owen Laura 
Published: November 2019

Objective Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein which binds hormones such as testosterone. Around 97% of circulating testosterone is bound to SHBG or albumin and is therefore biologically unavailable; 2–3% of testosterone is free. Free testosterone is very technically challenging to quantify; in order to circumvent this problem, equations using testosterone and SHBG are used to estimate free testosterone. We decided to determine the effect of using different SHBG immunoassays on calculated free testosterone results. Design Anonymized surplus serum samples were analysed for SHBG on four different immunoassay platforms (Abbott Architect, Roche, Beckman and Siemens). The SHBG results were used to generate a Vermeulen calculated free testosterone. Results Beckman Access and Siemens Centaur both gave results close to the overall mean. Roche gave the highest SHBG concentrations with Abbott Architect producing the lowest results. Abbott Architect gave the highest calculated free testosterone results, followed by Beckman. Roche gave the lowest results. Sixty-five per cent of male samples had low calculated free testosterone and 27.5% of the females had high calculated free testosterone using the SHBG from the Abbott assay compared with 69% low male calculated free testosterone and 20% high female calculated free testosterone with the Roche assay. Conclusion Our results have shown significant differences in SHBG results produced by different analysers and subsequently the calculated free testosterone, which may affect result interpretation if method-specific reference ranges for calculated free testosterone are not used. Care should be taken to ensure reference ranges are appropriate for the analyser used to avoid misdiagnosis of hypo or hyperandrogenism, and ensure patients get the most appropriate treatment.
Identifying the Early Warnings of Currency Crisis in India
Authors: Mohana Rao Balaga , Padhi Puja 
Published: November 2019

We empirically investigate the recent history of currency crises (stress periods) and the factors influencing their likelihood in India. This study aims at constructing an early warning system (EWS) to forecast the possibility of an imminent crisis in the crisis window of 12 months by employing signal extraction methodology and logistic regression model for the period 1986–2015. Among the 22 identified crisis months (stress periods), only early episodes (1990–1991) were followed by a devaluation and not the later periods (post 1991). Both signal extraction methodology and logistic regression model indicate no relative importance to the three generations of currency crises models. Nevertheless, the results advocate that logistic regression model fares better than signal extraction technique. The results also suggest that building an EWS can be an effective diagnostic technique. JEL Codes: F31, F47, G01
Barriers to Weight Loss and Physical Activity, and Coach Approaches to Addressing Barriers, in a Real-World Adaptation of the DPP Lifestyle Intervention: A Process Analysis
Authors: Delahanty Linda M. , Trief Paula M. , Cibula Donald A. , Weinstock Ruth S. 
Published: November 2019

Purpose The purpose of this study is to identify barriers to weight loss and physical activity, as well as approaches used by coaches, in a real-world, community sample of adults with metabolic syndrome (at risk for type 2 diabetes) who participated in a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)–adapted weight loss intervention and compare findings to data from the screened and highly selected DPP sample. Methods SHINE (Support, Health Information, Nutrition, and Exercise) was a telephonic DPP adaptation. Primary care staff delivered the DPP curriculum, and lifestyle coaches provided monthly direction to achieve weight loss. For this substudy, barriers to weight loss and physical activity described by participants, as well as approaches coaches used to address them, were gathered. Groupings of barriers (DPP defined) were analyzed in relation to demographic characteristics and compared to data from the DPP sample. Results Top weight loss barriers were problems with self-monitoring, too little physical activity, internal thought/mood cues, vacation/holidays, and social cues. Percentages reporting a barrier were much higher in SHINE. Top physical activity barriers were problems with self-monitoring, access/weather, time management, aches/pains, and vacation/holidays. These did not correspond closely to DPP data. Coaches used problem solving, self-monitoring skills review, increased physical activity, and motivational strategies. SHINE coaches were more likely than DPP coaches to use alternative approaches. Conclusions Barriers to weight loss and physical activity in a community sample of persons at risk for diabetes occurred at much higher rates than in the highly screened DPP sample. Training coaches in a variety of patient-centered approaches may maximize their positive impact.
Insights into the perception that research ethics committees are a barrier to research with seriously ill children: A study of committee minutes and correspondence with researchers studying seriously ill children
Authors: Butler Ashleigh E , Vincent Katherine , Bluebond-Langner Myra 
Published: November 2019

Background: Research ethics committees are commonly perceived as a ‘barrier’ to research involving seriously ill children. Researchers studying seriously ill children often feel that committees view their applications more harshly compared to applications for research with other populations. Whether or not this is the case in practice is unknown. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore committees’ concerns, expectations and decisions for research applications involving seriously ill children submitted for review in the United Kingdom. Design: Content analysis of committee meeting minutes, decision letters and researcher response letters. Setting/participants: Chief investigators for National Institute of Health Research portfolio studies involving seriously ill children were contacted for permission to review their study documents. Results: Of the 77 applications included in this study, 57 received requests for revisions at first review. Committee expectations and concerns commonly related to participant information sheets, methodology, consent, recruitment or formatting. Changes were made to 53 of these studies, all of which were subsequently approved. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that committees review applications for research involving seriously ill children with the same scrutiny as applications for research with other populations. Yet, the perception that committees act as a barrier to this type of research persists. We suggest that this perception remains due to other factors including, but not limited to, the high levels of formatting or administrative revisions requested by committees or additional study requirements needed for research involving children, such as multiple versions of consent forms or participant information sheets.
Nitrous oxide causes peripheral neuropathy in a dose dependent manner among recreational users
Authors: Winstock Adam R , Ferris Jason A 
Published: November 2019

Background: Nitrous oxide (N2O) has been used in clinical and recreational settings for over 150 years. Through inactivation of the Vitamin B12 dependent enzyme, methionine synthase, N2O can lead to the development of peripheral neuropathy. This study sought to determine the relationship between the exposure and risk of neurological symptoms in the largest ever sample of users. Design: Data are drawn from the Global Drug Survey (GDS) over three consecutive years (2014–2016). The Global Drug Survey is an online, cross-sectional survey of substance use, translated into multiple languages. Participants: Respondents to the Global Drug Survey who provided details on N2O use and the experience of paraesthesia in the previous 12 months. Measurements: Questions relating to N2O use, peripheral neuropathy, age and gender were explored among last year’s users. Findings: Of 241,566 respondents, 41,181 (17.0%) indicated that they had ever used nitrous oxide; of these, 42.1% had used in the last 12 months. For the final model, data from 16,124 participants who had used N2O in the last 12 months and had provided responses on age, dose, gender and paraesthesia were used. Of these, the number of respondents reporting persistent numbness/tingling (paraesthesia) in their hands or feet was 537 (3.3%). Although the risk was very low among infrequent users, there was a strong dose–response relationship. For people indicating one or two doses per session, the probability of reporting paraesthesia was approximately 0.018 by comparison; for people indicating 100 doses per session the probability was approximately 0.085. The association, between dose and paraesthesia was influenced by gender and age. Conclusion: While infrequent, episodic users are not at risk, a minority of heavy users are at dose-dependent risk of developing serious neurological consequences. Better education and raised awareness of early symptoms are required.
Comparative analysis of long-term care quality for older adults in China and Western countries
Authors: Min Li , Huilan Xu 
Published: November 2019

Objective Based on theoretical and methodological research and the results of a literature review, we evaluated and comparatively analyzed the quality of long-term care for older populations in China and in Western countries. Methods We performed a literature review, using the search terms long-term care and care services for older adults, in the databases ProQuest, CNKI, and Wanfang Data. Results Our comparative analysis demonstrated that the overall quantity of articles related to long-term care for older populations was relatively large. The literature comprises advanced accumulated experiences in terms of theoretical and methodological perspectives in developed countries. The field of long-term care is relatively young in China and we could retrieve only a few related studies. Conclusions The system of long-term care for older populations in China has much room for improvement. In addition, the evaluation criteria for long-term care quality remain controversial. Relevant research focusing on the quality of long-term care services in the country lacks comprehensive, systematic, and scientific validation, comparison, and evaluation. This topic warrants further evidence-based investigation in China.
Analysis of the effect of overusing thumbs on smartphone games
Authors: Wang Dong , Tang Liang , Wu Huihui , Gu Dongyun 
Published: November 2019

Objective To assess the impact of repetitive movements of the thumb caused by playing a smartphone game continuously for 30 min. Methods This study recruited healthy volunteers. They were instructed to play a game called Subway Surfers, which ran continuously. Subjects played the game for 30 min. The function of the abductor pollicis brevis and extensor pollicis brevis muscles was assessed by surface electromyography and the signals were obtained at 10 min, 20 min and 30 min. The median frequency (MDF) was used as an indicator of muscle fatigue. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess the subjective discomfort of the volunteers. Results Twelve subjects participated in this study. The MDF of the abductor pollicis brevis and extensor pollicis brevis muscles decreased significantly over the test period. The MDF of the extensor pollicis brevis had decreased significantly by 10 min after the start of the gaming session, while the abductor pollicis brevis had decreased significantly by 20 min. The VAS scores significantly increased after 30 min of continuous gaming. Conclusions This study suggests that playing continuous games on a smartphone might result in chronic muscle injury. Continuous gaming time should be kept below 20 minutes.
Effects of capacitive and resistive electric transfer therapy in patients with painful shoulder impingement syndrome: a comparative study
Authors: Paolucci T , Pezzi L , Centra MA , Porreca A , Barbato C , Bellomo RG , Saggini R 
Published: November 2019

Objective Capacitive and resistive electric transfer therapy (CARE) reduces pain and improves quality of life for many orthopaedic degenerative and inflammatory disorders. The research aim was to determine the effects of CARE on painful shoulder. The outcomes were pain reduction and recovery of shoulder function. Methods A retrospective, observational case-control study was conducted. Participants were 46 patients (22 in the CARE group and 24 in the SHAM group). Clinical data, pain (visual analogic scale, VAS) and functional scale scores (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scale, and Constant–Murley Scale) were measured at baseline T0 (before treatment), T1 (after treatment) and follow-up T2 (2 months after the end of the treatment). Results VAS scores in the CARE group improved from 7.23 ± 1.11 at baseline to 2.68 ± 0.99 at follow-up. The SHAM group did not experience any improvement. Similarly, functional scale scores improved in the CARE group compared with the SHAM group. Conclusion Considering the small number of sessions needed, low cost and long-term benefits, CARE could be a useful therapeutic option for the conservative management of shoulder pain to restore pain-free and powerful movement to the shoulder joint.
Effect of remifentanil infusion on the hemodynamic response during induction of anesthesia in hypertensive and normotensive patients: a prospective observational study
Authors: Lee Soo Kyung , Jeong Mi Ae , Sung Jeong Min , Yeon Hyo Jin , Chang Ji Hee , Lim Hyunyoung 
Published: November 2019

Background The induction of general anesthesia may cause hemodynamic instability. Remifentanil is often administered to suppress the hemodynamic response. We aimed to evaluate the effect of remifentanil infusion on the hemodynamic response to induction of anesthesia in hypertensive and normotensive patients. Methods Patients were divided into two groups: Group H (n = 102) were hypertensive patients and Group C (n = 107) were normotensive patients. During induction, all patients received 1 µg/kg of remifentanil as a loading dose over 2 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion at 0.05 µg/kg/minute. We analyzed the systolic, diastolic, and mean pressures and heart rate pre-induction, pre-intubation, immediately post-intubation, and at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 minutes after intubation. Results The systolic, diastolic, and mean pressures before induction were significantly higher in group H compared with group C, but there was no significant difference between the two groups immediately after intubation. Blood pressures immediately after intubation were similar to the pre-induction blood pressure. There was no significant difference in heart rate between the two groups at any time point. Conclusions Remifentanil infusion effectively attenuates the hemodynamic response to induction of general anesthesia in hypertensive and normotensive patients.
Study on in vitro performance verification protocol for left ventricular assist device
Authors: Li Shu , Hsu Po-Lin , Hao Ye , Ren Haiping 
Published: November 2019

Objective: In vitro performance verification of ventricular assist devices using a mock circulatory loop is a prominent step to guarantee the system responses and the device performance and safety before the in vivo tests and ultimately clinical trials. Methods: In this article, we performed a comprehensive literature research to establish a verification matrix consisting of 12 test cases, defined by a set of physiological parameters which are commonly used to characterize a physiological condition. The clinical hemodynamic indicators for defining successful mechanical support were used as the acceptance criteria. A mock circulatory loop was customized to simulate the test cases, and a full verification protocol was described in details. An example left ventricular assist device was incorporated in the loop to accomplish a standard ventricular assist device performance verification. Result: The test cases based on clinical data with sufficient safety margin represent our understanding in defining the extremes of operation. The mock circulatory loop was capable of generating the test conditions in the verification matrix and reproducing the Frank–Starling law of the native heart. The effect of the left ventricular assist device assistance (characterized by the total systemic flow, mean aortic pressure, and left atrial pressure) was well verified by the proposed protocol and acceptance criteria. Conclusion: To date, all left ventricular assist devices made in China have been evaluated according this protocol and some of them have entered the clinical trial stage. We are closely observing the clinical data in order to further improve the performance of the platform and encourage more advances in mechanical circulatory assist devices.