bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High‐frequency (20‐MHz) high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) system for dermal intervention: Preclinical evaluation in skin equivalents
Authors: Bove Torsten , Zawada Tomasz , Serup Jørgen , Jessen Alexander , Poli Mattia 
Published: January 2019

AbstractBackgroundHigh‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for non‐invasive treatment of a range of internal pathologies including cancers of major organs and cerebral pathologies is in exponential growth. Systems, however, operate at relatively low frequencies, in the range of 200‐2000 kHz as required for deep axial penetration of the body. HIFU utilizing frequencies in excess of 15 MHz has so far not been explored, but presents an opportunity to extend the HIFU modality to target specific dermal lesions and small animal research.Materials and methodsA new 20‐MHz HIFU system (TOOsonix ONE‐R) with narrow focus corresponding to the dermis was studied in acoustic skin equivalents, for example, in a tissue‐mimicking gel and in bovine liver. HIFU lesion geometry, depth, and diameter were determined. The temperature increase in the focal point was measured as a function of acoustic power and the duration of HIFU exposure.ResultsThe system produces highly reproducible ultrasound lesions with predictable and configurable depths of 1‐2 mm, thus corresponding to the depth of the human dermis. The lesion geometry was elongated triangular and sized 0.1‐0.5 mm, convergent to a focal point skin deep. Focal point temperature ranged between 40 and 90°C depending on the chosen setting. Observations were confirmed ex vivo in bovine liver and porcine muscle. Variation of acoustic power and duration of exposure produced linear effects in the range of the settings studied. Thus, effects could be adjusted within the temperature interval and spatial field relevant for clinical therapy and experimental intervention targeting the dermal layer of human skin.ConclusionThe tested 20‐MHz HIFU system for dermal applications fulfilled key prerequisite of narrow‐field HIFU dedicated to cutaneous applications regarding reproducibility, geometry, and small size of the applied ultrasound lesions. Controlled adjustment of acoustic lesions within the temperature range 40‐90°C qualifies the system for a range of non‐ablative and ablative applications in dermatological therapy.
A study of skin characteristics according to humidity during sleep
Authors: Jang Sue Im , Han Jiyeon , Lee Myeongryeol , Seo Jeongeun , Kim Beom Joon , Kim Eunjoo 
Published: January 2019

AbstractIntroductionDuring sleep, the skin is exposed to various environments for example low or high humidity and temperature. And the average of 7‐8 hours of sleeping in those situations can affect skin condition. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine skin characteristics according to humidity during sleep.MethodEleven healthy women in their ages of 20s and 30s were controlled. They slept more than 7 hours at lower than 30% relative humidity (RH) environment on the first day and at higher than 70% on the second day. The room temperature was controlled to 22 ± 5°C. Three measurement points were (a) before for sleep (after wash), (b) after 7 hours sleep (morning), and (c) after wash. Skin hydration, sebum secretion, and trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL) were measured. The statistical significance was determined at P < 0.05.ResultAfter 7 hours of sleep in 30% RH condition, skin hydration decreased by 24.23% significantly, but there was no significant difference after sleeping in 70% RH. The sebum level was increased after sleep at 30% RH. The TEWL did not show differences according to the humidity during sleep but significantly increased after facial cleansing in 30% RH sleeping condition.DiscussionIn this study, we confirmed that the changes in skin characteristics may be affected by humidity during sleep. When sleeping in dry environment, skin hydration decreases but the amount of sebum increases to compensate for skin dryness. Therefore, this study might suggest how to care the skin before sleep depending on the room humidity.
Natural latex‐glycerol dressing to reduce nipple pain and healing the skin in breastfeeding women
Authors: de Barros Natan Roberto , dos Santos Ricardo Soares , Miranda Matheus Carlos Romeiro , Bolognesi Luis Felipe Cesar , Borges Felipe Azevedo , Schiavon João Victor , Marques Rodrigo Fernando Costa , Herculano Rondinelli Donizetti , Norberto Ana Maria Queiros 
Published: January 2019

AbstractBackgroundNipple pain is the second most common reason for early weaning, exceeded only by the insufficient milk supply. Nipple fissures can bring other problems, acting also as a portal for bacteria and leading to mastitis. This work proposes the breast protector composite development using materials with tissue repair and moisturizing properties, aligned with a low‐cost procedure, aiming not only to relieve pain, but also to heal the nipple fissures caused by breastfeeding.Materials and methodsFor the dressings, production was used Natural Latex extracted from the rubber tree and glycerol. The Samples were evaluated chemically and physically by the techniques of Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, mechanical traction, and contact angle. The samples were also biologically evaluated by the hemolytic and cytotoxic activity assays.ResultsFrom the physical‐chemical assays, the matrix with glycerol has high pore density; the natural latex and glycerol do not covalently interact, indicating that the glycerol can be released; the glycerol addition makes the matrix more elastic but fragile, and increase the wettability. From the biological assays, both materials showed no hemolytic effects; and the cytotoxicity results showed that glycerol did not present cytotoxicity in the fibroblasts, but show a dose‐dependent influence in the keratinocytes.ConclusionThe material developed for application in breast fissures has mechanical properties similar to those found for materials for dermal applications, present high wettability and pore density. Furthermore, the material showed no cytolytic activity and the tests with skin cell cultures demonstrated the biocompatibility.
The use of Twitter for knowledge exchange on sustainable soil management
Authors: Mills Jane , Reed Matthew , Skaalsveen Kamilla , Ingram Julie 
Published: January 2019

AbstractEncouraging the uptake of sustainable soil management practices often requires on‐farm experiential learning and adaptation over a sustained period, rather than the traditional knowledge transfer processes of identifying a problem and implementing a solution. Farmer‐to‐farmer learning networks are emerging with farmers experimenting and sharing knowledge about these practices amongst themselves. One potential communication channel for such interaction and knowledge sharing is social media and Twitter in particular. A content analysis of a Twitter account for an EU research project, SoilCare, and in‐depth qualitative interviews with five farmers using Twitter, was used to illustrate the extent and type of farmer‐to‐farmer knowledge sharing in relation to sustainable soil management practices. Evidence of farmer learning and knowledge sharing on Twitter with respect to these practices was identified. Twitter can capture the immediacy of the field operations and visual impacts in the field. Furthermore, the brief messages channelled through Twitter appeal to time‐constrained farmers. The ability for interaction around particular hashtags in Twitter is developing virtual networks of practice in relation to sustainable soil management. Within these networks, farmer champions are emerging that are respected by other farmers. Twitter works best for those actively seeking information, rather than passive recipients of new knowledge. Therefore, its use with other forms of face‐to‐face interaction as part of a blended learning approach is recommended. Twitter also offers a potential space for other actors, such as researchers and advisers, to interact and share knowledge with farmers.
Improving the informed consent process among HIV‐infected undisclosed minors participating in a biomedical research: insights from the multicentre nutritional SNACS study in Senegal
Authors: Hejoaka Fabienne , Varloteaux Marie , Desclaux‐Sall Caroline , Ndiaye Sidy Mokhtar , Diop Karim , Diack Aminata , Niasse Fatou , Cames Cécile 
Published: January 2019

AbstractObjectivesProviding research information in a manner accessible to minors participating in biomedical research is a major challenge. Guidance is dramatically lacking regarding best practices for seeking informed consent among undisclosed minors enrolled in HIV‐related research. We implemented an improved informed consent process (IICP) and identified factors associated with understanding of the information presented to HIV‐infected minors prior to their enrolment in a study.MethodsWe enrolled study participants attending 12 paediatric HIV clinics in Senegal. Children ≥7 years were provided with standardised research information using the IICP, which involves viewing a video and taking part in extended group discussions. Understanding was assessed by seven basic questions scored 1 or 2 points, with a maximum score of 11 points. A score of 9 or more points was defined as satisfactory understanding. Factors associated with understanding were identified using a stepwise logistic regression model.ResultsOverall, 112 children, with a median age of 12.9 years (IQR: 10.2–15.0), participated in the IICP, of whom 37% were HIV disclosed. 71% achieved a satisfactory understanding score and all gave consent to participate in the research. HIV‐disclosed children were more likely to demonstrate satisfactory understanding than undisclosed children (aOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.1–9.6). Age, study setting and education level were not associated with satisfactory understanding.ConclusionThese findings provide practical guidance for the development of improved and friendly informed consent processes in research involving minors. The implementation of the paediatric HIV research agenda will require a standardised and operational definition of informed consent, integrating the issue of HIV disclosure.
Epidemic potential of Zika virus in Australia: implications for blood transfusion safety
Authors: Watson‐Brown Peter , Viennet Elvina , Mincham Gina , Williams Craig R. , Jansen Cassie C. , Montgomery Brian L. , Flower Robert L.P. , Faddy Helen M. 
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUNDZika virus (ZIKV) is transfusion‐transmissible. In Australia the primary vector, Aedes aegypti, is established in the north‐east, such that local transmission is possible following importation of an index case, which has the potential to impact on blood transfusion safety and public health. We estimated the basic reproduction number (R
0) to model the epidemic potential of ZIKV in Australian locations, compared this with the ecologically similar dengue viruses (DENV), and examined possible implications for blood transfusion safety.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSVarying estimates of vector control efficiency and extrinsic incubation period, “best‐case” and “worst‐case” scenarios of monthly R
0 for ZIKV and DENV were modeled from 1996 to 2015 in 11 areas. We visualized the geographical distribution of blood donors in relation to areas with epidemic potential for ZIKV.RESULTSEpidemic potential (R
0 > 1) existed for ZIKV and DENV throughout the study period in a number of locations in northern Australia (Cairns, Darwin, Rockhampton, Thursday Island, Townsville, and Brisbane) during the warmer months of the year. R
0 for DENV was greater than ZIKV and was broadly consistent with annual estimates in Cairns. Increased vector control efficiency markedly reduced the epidemic potential and shortened the season of local transmission. Australian locations that provide the greatest number of blood donors did not have epidemic potential for ZIKV.CONCLUSIONWe estimate that areas of north‐eastern Australia could sustain local transmission of ZIKV. This early contribution to understanding the epidemic potential of ZIKV may assist in the assessment and management of threats to blood transfusion safety.
Self-efficacy and risk of persistent shoulder pain: results of a Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis
Authors: Chester Rachel , Khondoker Mizanur , Shepstone Lee , Lewis Jeremy S , Jerosch-Herold Christina 
Published: January 2019

ObjectivesTo (i) identify predictors of outcome for the physiotherapy management of shoulder pain and (ii) enable clinicians to subgroup people into risk groups for persistent shoulder pain and disability.Methods1030 people aged ≥18 years, referred to physiotherapy for the management of musculoskeletal shoulder pain were recruited. 810 provided data at 6 months for 4 outcomes: Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) (total score, pain subscale, disability subscale) and Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH). 34 potential prognostic factors were used in this analysis.ResultsFour classification trees (prognostic pathways or decision trees) were created, one for each outcome. The most important predictor was baseline pain and/or disability: higher or lower baseline levels were associated with higher or lower levels at follow-up for all outcomes. One additional baseline factor split participants into four subgroups. For the SPADI trees, high pain self-efficacy reduced the likelihood of continued pain and disability. Notably, participants with low baseline pain but concomitant low pain self-efficacy had similar outcomes to patients with high baseline pain and high pain self-efficacy. Cut-off points for defining high and low pain self-efficacy differed according to baseline pain and disability. In the QuickDASH tree, the association between moderate baseline pain and disability with outcome was influenced by patient expectation: participants who expected to recover because of physiotherapy did better than those who expected no benefit.ConclusionsPatient expectation and pain self-efficacy are associated with clinical outcome. These clinical elements should be included at the first assessment and a low pain self-efficacy response considered as a target for treatment intervention.
Efficient Fine-grained Processor-logic Interactions on the Cache-coherent Zynq Platform
Authors: Kroh Alexander , Diessel Oliver 
Published: January 2019

The introduction of cache-coherent processor-logic interconnects in CPU-FPGA platforms promises low-latency communication between CPU and FPGA fabrics. This reduced latency improves the performance of heterogeneous systems implemented on such devices and gives rise to new software architectures that can better use the available hardware.
Via an extended study accelerating the software task scheduler of a microkernel operating system, this article reports on the potential for accelerating applications that exhibit fine-grained interactions. In doing so, we evaluate the performance of direct and cache-coherent communication methods for applications that involve frequent, low-bandwidth transactions between CPU and programmable logic.
In the specific case we studied, we found that replacing a highly optimised software implementation of the task scheduler with an FPGA-based scheduler reduces the cost of communication between two software threads by 5.5%. We also found that, while hardware acceleration reduces cache footprint, we still observe execution time variability because of other non-deterministic features of the CPU.
Biases in tactile localization by pointing: compression for weak stimuli and centering for distributions of stimuli
Authors: Brooks Jack , Seizova-Cajic Tatjana , Taylor Janet L. 
Published: January 2019

Weak electrocutaneous stimuli applied to the forearm are erroneously localized toward its middle (Steenbergen P, Buitenweg JR, Trojan J, Veltink PH. Exp Brain Res 232: 597–607, 2014). We asked whether mechanical touch stimuli exhibit a similar bias and whether the bias is toward the middle of the forearm or toward the middle of the recent stimulus distribution. In experiments 1 and 2, participants ( n = 12 and n = 10) localized by pointing von Frey filaments applied to four locations on the dorsal forearm. Individually adjusted weak and strong stimuli ( experiment 1) or two levels of strong stimuli ( experiment 2) were presented in single sessions in random order. Weaker stimuli were localized with greater variability than the strong, with compression toward the middle of the forearm. Responses to the two levels of strong stimuli did not differ. In experiment 3, participants ( n = 16) were presented two spatially offset stimulus distributions (8 cm center-to-center), each offset from the forearm middle, on 2 different days. Out of four target locations comprising each distribution, two were shared. Responses to weak stimuli were compressed compared with responses to strong stimuli. Importantly, biases for the common targets had opposite directions, each being toward the middle of the distribution within which targets were presented. Responses to strong stimuli also exhibited a distribution-dependent bias, a 2-cm overall shift across the forearm midpoint. We conclude that touch localization is subject to intensity-dependent biases determined by the recent history of stimulation and possibly also by the available or perceived response space. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Recent findings show that weak electrical stimuli applied to the forearm are mislocalized toward the forearm middle, relative to strong stimuli. We found that weak mechanical stimuli are similarly mislocalized. The bias changed if, as a group, stimuli were not centered on the forearm middle: weak stimuli gravitated toward the center of prior stimulation. Localization of strong stimuli was also biased, consistent with the tendency to center responses within the available response space.
Rubber hand illusion modulates the influences of somatosensory and parietal inputs to the motor cortex
Authors: Isayama Reina , Vesia Michael , Jegatheeswaran Gaayathiri , Elahi Behzad , Gunraj Carolyn A. , Cardinali Lucilla , Farnè Alessandro , Chen Robert 
Published: January 2019

The rubber hand illusion (RHI) paradigm experimentally produces an illusion of rubber hand ownership and arm shift by simultaneously stroking a rubber hand in view and a participant’s visually occluded hand. It involves visual, tactile, and proprioceptive multisensory integration and activates multisensory areas in the brain, including the posterior parietal cortex (PPC). Multisensory inputs are transformed into outputs for motor control in association areas such as PPC. A behavioral study reported decreased motor performance after RHI. However, it remains unclear whether RHI modifies the interactions between sensory and motor systems and between PPC and the primary motor cortex (M1). We used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and examined the functional connections from the primary somatosensory and association cortices to M1 and from PPC to M1 during RHI. In experiment 1, short-latency afferent inhibition (SAI) and long-latency afferent inhibition (LAI) were measured before and immediately after a synchronous (RHI) or an asynchronous (control) condition. In experiment 2, PPC-M1 interaction was measured using two coils. We found that SAI and LAI were reduced in the synchronous condition compared with baseline, suggesting that RHI decreased somatosensory processing in the primary sensory and the association cortices projecting to M1. We also found that greater inhibitory PPC-M1 interaction was associated with stronger RHI assessed by questionnaire. Our findings suggest that RHI modulates both the early and late stages of processing of tactile afferent, which leads to altered M1 excitability by reducing the gain of somatosensory afferents to resolve conflicts among multisensory inputs. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Perception of one’s own body parts involves integrating different sensory information and is important for motor control. We found decreased effects of cutaneous stimulation on motor cortical excitability during rubber hand illusion (RHI), which may reflect decreased gain of tactile input to resolve multisensory conflicts. RHI strength correlated with the degree of inhibitory posterior parietal cortex-motor cortex interaction, indicating that parietal-motor connection is involved in resolving sensory conflicts and body ownership during RHI.
Separate motor memories are formed when controlling different implicitly specified locations on a tool
Authors: Proud Keaton , Heald James B. , Ingram James N. , Gallivan Jason P. , Wolpert Daniel M. , Flanagan J. Randall 
Published: January 2019

Skillful manipulation requires forming and recalling memories of the dynamics of objects linking applied force to motion. It has been assumed that such memories are associated with entire objects. However, we often control different locations on an object, and these locations may be associated with different dynamics. We have previously demonstrated that multiple memories can be formed when participants are explicitly instructed to control different visual points marked on an object. A key question is whether this novel finding generalizes to more natural situations in which control points are implicitly defined by the task. To answer this question, we used objects with no explicit control points and tasks designed to encourage the use of distinct implicit control points. Participants moved a handle, attached to a robotic interface, to control the position of a rectangular object (“eraser”) in the horizontal plane. Participants were required to move the eraser straight ahead to wipe away a column of dots (“dust”), located to either the left or right. We found that participants adapted to opposing dynamics when linked to the left and right dust locations, even though the movements required for these two contexts were the same. Control conditions showed this learning could not be accounted for by contextual cues or the fact that the task goal required moving in a straight line. These results suggest that people naturally control different locations on manipulated objects depending on the task context and that doing so affords the formation of separate motor memories. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Skilled manipulation requires forming motor memories of object dynamics, which have been assumed to be associated with entire objects. However, we recently demonstrated that people can form multiple memories when explicitly instructed to control different visual points on an object. In this article we show that this novel finding generalizes to more natural situations in which control points are implicitly defined by the task.