bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unravelling functional neurology: does spinal manipulation have an effect on the brain? - a systematic literature review
Authors: Meyer Anne-Laure , Amorim Michel-Ange , Schubert Martin , Schweinhardt Petra , Leboeuf-Yde Charlotte 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Background
A recent hypothesis purports that spinal manipulation may cause changes at a brain level. Functional Neurology, a mainly chiropractic approach, promotes the use of spinal manipulation to improve ‘brain function’ as if it were a proven construct. No systematic review has been performed to investigate how well founded this hypothesis is.

Objective
To investigate whether spinal manipulation has an effect on ‘brain function’ that is associated with any clinical benefits.

Method
In this systematic review, the literature was searched in PubMed, Embase, and PEDro (final search February 2018). We included randomized or non-randomized controlled studies, in which spinal manipulation was performed to any region of the spine, applied on either symptomatic or asymptomatic humans, and compared to a sham or to another type of control. The outcome measures had to be stated as direct or proxy markers of ‘brain function’. Articles were reviewed blindly by at least two reviewers, using a quality checklist designed for the specific needs of the review. Studies were classified as of ‘acceptable’, ‘medium’, or ‘low’ methodological quality. Results were reported in relation to (i) control intervention (sham, ‘inactive control’, or ‘another physical stimulus’) and (ii) study subjects (healthy, symptomatic, or with spinal pain” subjects/spinal pain”), taking into account the quality. Only results obtained from between-group or between-intervention comparisons were considered in the final analysis.

Results
Eighteen of 1514 articles were included. Studies were generally of ‘low’ or ‘medium’ methodological quality, most comparing spinal manipulation to a control other than a sham. Thirteen out of the 18 studies could be included in the final analysis. Transitory effects of different types of ‘brain function’ were reported in the three studies comparing spinal manipulation to sham (but of uncertain credibility), in “subclinical neck/spinal pain” subjects or in symptomatic subjects. None of these three studies, of ‘medium’ or ‘acceptable’ quality, investigated whether the neurophysiological effects reported were associated with clinical benefits. The remaining 10 studies, generally of ‘low’ or ‘medium’ quality, compared spinal manipulation to ‘inactive control’ or ‘another physical stimulus’ and similarly reported significant between-group differences but inconsistently.

Conclusion
The available evidence suggests that changes occur in ‘brain function’ in response to spinal manipulation but are inconsistent across and - sometimes - within studies. The clinical relevance of these changes is unknown. It is therefore premature to promote the use of spinal manipulation as a treatment to improve ‘brain function’.
Determining optimal needle size for decompression of tension pneumothorax in children – a CT-based study
Authors: Leonhard Georg , Overhoff Daniel , Wessel Lucas , Viergutz Tim , Rudolph Marcus , Schöler Michael , Haubenreisser Holger , Terboven Tom 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackgroundFor neonates and children requiring decompression of tension pneumothorax, specific recommendations for the choice of needle type and size are missing. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine optimal length and diameter of needles for decompression of tension pneumothorax in paediatric patients.MethodsUtilizing computed tomography, we determined optimal length and diameter of needles to enable successful decompression and at the same time minimize risk of injury to intrathoracic structures and the intercostal vessels and nerve. Preexisting computed tomography scans of the chest were reviewed in children aged 0, 5 and 10 years. Chest wall thickness and width of the intercostal space were measured at the 4th intercostal space at the anterior axillary line (AAL) on both sides of the thorax. In each age group, three needles different in bore and length were evaluated regarding sufficient length for decompression and risk of injury to intrathoracic organs and the intercostal vessels and nerve.Results197 CT-scans were reviewed, of which 58 were excluded, resulting in a study population of 139 children and 278 measurements. Width of the intercostal space was small at 4th ICS AAL (0 years: 0.44 ± 0.13 cm; 5 years: 0.78 ± 0.22 cm; 10 years: 1.12 ± 0.36 cm). The ratio of decompression failure to risk of injury at 4th ICS AAL was most favourable for a 22G/2.5 cm catheter in infants (Decompression failure: right: 2%, left: 4%, Risk of injury: right: 14%, left: 24%), a 22G/2.5 cm or a 20G/3.2 cm catheter in 5-year-old children (20G/3.2 cm: Decompression failure: right: 2.1%, left: 0%, Risk of injury: right: 2.1%, left: 17%) and a 18G/4.5 cm needle in 10-year-old children (Decompression failure: right: 9.5%, left: 9.5%, Risk of injury: right: 7.1%, left: 11.9%).ConclusionsIn children aged 0, 5 and 10 years presenting with a tension pneumothorax, we recommend 22G/2.5 cm, 20G/3.2 cm and 18G/4.5 cm needles, respectively, for acute decompression.
Effects of neuromuscular training and strengthening of trunk and lower limbs muscles in women with Patellofemoral Pain: A protocol of randomized controlled clinical trial, blinded
Authors: Silva Natália Camin , Silva Matheus de Castro , Guimarães Morisa Garcia , Nascimento Manoela Beatriz de Oliveira , Felicio Lilian Ramiro 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Background
Patellofemoral pain (PFP) often affects young women, and the etiology is multifactorial and poorly understood. Conservative intervention has been focused on risk factors or aggravating factors and is composed of hip- and knee-strengthening exercises, as this population often has muscle weakness and poor motor control during daily and sports activities. The objective of this study was to evaluate the additional effects of neuromuscular training in a conservative treatment of trunk-, hip-, and knee-muscle strengthening on pain, function, and kinematics of the trunk, pelvis, and lower limb in women with PFP.

Methods
This is a randomised clinical trial, controlled, blinded. Ninety women who are active and engage in physical activity up to twice a week will be recruited. All participants will undergo an individual physiotherapy assessment and then will be allocated randomly into two groups. Thereafter, both groups will undergo a 12-week intervention protocol: group 1 will perform strengthening exercises for the trunk, hip, and knee muscles, while group 2 will receive the same treatment, with the inclusion of neuromuscular training exercises on the fourth week. At the end of the intervention, the volunteers will be evaluated. The primary outcomes will be pain intensity (using a Visual Analog Scale: over the last month, squat 90°, and step of 26 cm during 1 min), functional capacity (Anterior Knee Pain Scale and Activities of Daily Living Scale), and 2D kinematics of the trunk, pelvis, and lower limb during the single-leg squat. The secondary outcomes correspond to the isometric muscular strength of the lower limb and the level of satisfaction from the intervention.

Discussion
The present study was initiated on 28 January 2018 and is currently in progress, scheduled for completion in July 2019. The results of this study should contribute to the physiotherapeutic treatment of women with PFP by aggregating information on the benefits of adding neuromuscular training to strengthening of the trunk and lower-limb muscles.

Trial registration
Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos, ID: RBR-8c7267. Registered on 2 August 2017.
Harmonisation of Outcome Parameters and Evaluation (HOPE) for actinic keratosis: protocol for the development of a core outcome set
Authors: Heppt Markus V. , Steeb Theresa , Schmitz Lutz , Garbe Claus , French Lars E. , Leiter Ulrike , Berking Carola 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Background
Actinic keratoses (AK) are common skin lesions that can progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. A variety of lesion- or field-targeted treatment options exist and their efficacy has been demonstrated in numerous randomised controlled trials (RCTs). However, the reported endpoints are highly heterogeneous, making it difficult to assess and compare distinct treatment options and to reach an evidence-based choice of therapy.

Methods
A systematic literature search will be conducted to analyse which endpoints are reported in RCTs. The focus will be on effectiveness, tolerability, cosmesis, and patient satisfaction. The reported endpoints of these studies, as well as their frequency and data collection times, will be documented in a standardised way to generate a comprehensive list of reported endpoints. In order to complete the identified outcomes in the literature search, focus groups on affected patients and structured interviews with board-certified dermatologists will be conducted to identify both patient- and practice-relevant endpoints. After the identification phase, the evaluation of the endpoints follows. In a two-stage Delphi procedure, experts including patient representatives will evaluate the endpoints in a standardised and transparent manner. A final face-to-face consensus meeting will be conducted after the last Delphi round in which a final list of core outcomes will be consented.

Discussion
The development of a standardised endpoint set for the treatment of AK will contribute to improving the comparability of therapeutic options. Our catalogue will enhance the synthesis of evidence for the future by reducing heterogeneity in outcomes between RCTs and hence contribute to improving the quality of research, evidence-based and patient-centred treatment.

Trial registration
Core Outcome Measures for Effectiveness (COMET) database. Registered in December 2018.
Spatial and temporal disease dynamics of the parasite Hematodinium sp. in shore crabs, Carcinus maenas
Authors: Davies Charlotte E. , Batista Frederico M. , Malkin Sophie H. , Thomas Jessica E. , Bryan Charlotte C. , Crocombe Peter , Coates Christopher J. , Rowley Andrew F. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Background
The parasitic dinoflagellates of the genus Hematodinium represent the causative agent of so-called bitter or pink crab disease in a broad range of shellfish taxa. Outbreaks of Hematodinium-associated disease can devastate local fishing and aquaculture efforts. The goal of our study was to examine the potential role of the common shore (green) crab Carcinus maenas as a reservoir for Hematodinium. Carcinus maenas is native to all shores of the UK and Ireland and the North East Atlantic but has been introduced to, and subsequently invaded waters of, the USA, South Africa and Australia. This species is notable for its capacity to harbour a range of micro- and macro-parasites, and therefore may act as a vector for disease transfer.

Methods
Over a 12-month period, we interrogated 1191 crabs across two distinct locations (intertidal pier, semi-closed dock) in Swansea Bay (Wales, UK) for the presence and severity of Hematodinium in the haemolymph, gills, hepatopancreas and surrounding waters (eDNA) using PCR-based methods, haemolymph preparations and histopathology.

Results
Overall, 13.6% were Hematodinium-positive via PCR and confirmed via tissue examination. Only a small difference was observed between locations with 14.4% and 12.8% infected crabs in the Dock and Pier, respectively. Binomial logistic regression models revealed seasonality (P < 0.002) and sex (P < 0.001) to be significant factors in Hematodinium detection with peak infection recorded in spring (March to May). Male crabs overall were more likely to be infected. Phylogenetic analyses of the partial ITS and 18S rRNA gene regions of Hematodinium amplified from crabs determined the causative agent to be the host generalist Hematodinium sp., which blights several valuable crustaceans in the UK alone, including edible crabs (Cancer pagurus) and langoustines (Nephrops norvegicus).

Conclusions
Shore crabs were infected with the host generalist parasite Hematodinium sp. in each location tested, thereby enabling the parasite to persist in an environment shared with commercially important shellfish.
A human case of spotted fever caused by Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest and its association to the tick Amblyomma ovale
Authors: da Paixão Sevá Anaiá , Martins Thiago Fernandes , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Rodrigues Ana Carla , Pinter Adriano , Luz Hermes R. , Angerami Rodrigo N. , Labruna Marcelo B. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Background
Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest has emerged in Brazil during the last 10 years, with three laboratory-confirmed human cases. While these cases were epidemiologically associated with the tick Amblyomma ovale, in none of them the tick specimens that bit the patients could be identified.

Results
We report a clinical case of spotted fever rickettsiosis that was acquired in an Atlantic forest area in Bahia state, northeast Brazil. The case was determined to be caused by R. parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest, based on molecular analysis of the crust removed from the tick bite site (inoculation eschar) of the patients’ skin. DNA extracted from the crust yielded partial sequences of three rickettsial genes (gltA, ompA and ompB), which were 99–100% identical to R. parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest. The tick specimen that was attached to patient skin was identified as a female of A. ovale.

Conclusions
We report the fourth confirmed case of spotted fever rickettsiosis caused by R. parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest, providing to our knowledge for the first time, direct evidence of R. parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest transmission by A. ovale.
Assessment of needle stick and sharp injuries among health care workers in central zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Weldesamuel Elias , Gebreyesus Hailay , Beyene Berhe , Teweldemedhin Mebrahtu , Welegebriel Zemichael , Tetemke Desalegn 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Objective
Accidental occupational injuries to health care workers (HCWs) continue to have a significant problem in the healthcare system. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess prevalence of needle sticks and sharp injury and associated factors among health care workers working in Central Zone Tigray northern Ethiopia.

Result
The prevalence of needle stick and sharp injury in the past 12 months preceding the study and entire job were 25.9% and 38.5% respectively. Nearly one-third (31%) of the injuries occurred in emergency unit and 122 (71.3%) of the materials caused injury were used on patients. Practice of needle recap, ever used cigarette in last 12 months, training, work hours > 40 per week, job dissatisfaction and work experience less than 5 years were found factors significantly associated with needle stick and sharp injury for health care workers. The magnitude of Needle stick and sharp injury is high in the study area. Policy makers should formulate strategies to improve the working condition for healthcare workers and increase their adherence to universal precautions.
Accuracy of the lower third molar radiographic imaging to estimate age among Ugandan young people
Authors: Mwesigwa Catherine Lutalo , Kutesa Annet M. , Munabi Ian G. , Kabenge Catherine A. , Buwembo William 
Published: October 2019

AbstractObjectiveDental development is a useful method for age estimation. Although third molar eruption is commonly used to estimate age in Uganda, it is reported to be unreliable because of external influences. The more reliable radiographic techniques have inter-ethnic differences but data from sub-Saharan Africa are limited regarding estimating age in young adults. This study, therefore, aimed at determining the accuracy of Demirjian’s classification of the lower third molar, a common dental age estimation method, in estimating key ages in a Ugandan population using Ugandan references. Dental records of 1021 Ugandans aged 10–22 years were assigned to two groups; reference and test. The reference data was retrieved from a database of a previous bigger research project.ResultsThe overall sample population comprised of 514/1021 (50.3%) males. The mean age was 15.8 (3.6) years. No significant sex differences in dental age were established in the reference sample (520 records). Accuracy values (area under the curve) at the 12-, 14-, 16- and 18-year cut-offs were between 0.83 and 0.90 using the test sample (501 records). The results suggest that Demirjian’s classification of the lower third molars is a useful method for age estimation in the young urban Ugandan population in the 10–22-year age-group.
Predictive performance of the estimating equations of renal function in Sri Lankan subjects
Authors: Weerakkody Ranga Migara , Sheriff Mohammed Hussain Rezvi 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Objectives
This study validates two popular predictive equations of renal function firstly, Modifications of Diet in Renal Disease and secondly, Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equations for Sri Lankan cohort. We used data of the patients referred to Renal Research lab of University of Colombo for creatinine clearance measurement.

Results
Predictive performances varied with the gender. Creatinine clearance and predicted renal functions were compared. Both fared unsatisfactorily with R2 ranging from 0.632 to 0.652, and overestimated renal function by 6–15%. The proportion chronic kidney disease staging 1 and 2 returned by Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation showed significant difference, in females. Modifications of Diet in Renal Disease equation significantly under-estimated advanced chronic kidney disease in females. Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation had better accuracy. The study sample had more females, Asian and lower body size and better renal functions than historic cohorts. Thai and Pakistani studies show both equations and their Asian adaptations fare poorly. Chronic kidney disease stages differ significantly with the equation used. Predictive equations have fared unsatisfactorily by overestimating renal functions. We recommend further studies using gold standards of measuring renal function.
Institutional design, informal practices and international conflict: The case of community-based pasture management in the Kyrgyz-Tajik border region
Authors: Kurmanalieva Gulzana , Crewett Wibke 
Published: October 2019

AbstractIn the Kyrgyz Region of Ferghana Valley, violent conflict flares repeatedly between the local Kyrgyz majority population and the Tajik ethnic minority. Drawing on a recent qualitative case study conducted in the borderlands of one of the two Tajik enclaves within the Kyrgyz Batken Region, this article seeks to identify the causes of pasture-related inter-ethnic conflict in the agro-pastoral Kyrgyz–Tajik border region. The paper employs an institutional perspective and explores the impact of the given institutional setup. We note that a lack of institutional arrangements for transboundary pasture use hinders Tajik herders’ legal access to the region’s sole summer pastures. The Kyrgyz “Pasture Committee” has pragmatically designed local rules on transboundary pasture use in the Kyrgyz–Tajik border region, thereby assuring Tajik herders at least semi-official access to the summer pastures. Yet while these rules limit conflict, they fail to limit overstocking. Locally designed rules also open up business opportunities to Tajik herders, which some of the Kyrgyz herders consider unfair and illegal. In order to achieve sustainable and locally accepted regional pasture management, despite the lack of legislative amendments and international agreements, we propose local-level institutional innovations. We also emphasize that pasture use regulation is paramount for maintaining regional stability and peaceful cooperation.
An analytical approach to obtain exact solutions of some space-time conformable fractional differential equations
Authors: Kadkhoda Nematollah , Jafari Hossein 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
In this paper, the sine-Gordon expansion method is used to obtain analytical solutions of the conformable space-time generalized reaction Duffing model and conformable space-time Eckhaus equation with the aid of symbolic computation. These equations can be reduced into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using a suitable wave transformation with a predicted polynomial-type solution.
Levinson type inequalities for higher order convex functions via Abel–Gontscharoff interpolation
Authors: Adeel Muhammad , Khan Khuram Ali , Pečarić Ðilda , Pečarić Josip 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
In this paper, Levinson type inequalities are studied for the class of higher order convex functions by using Abel–Gontscharoff interpolation. Cebyšev, Grüss, and Ostrowski-type new bounds are also found for the functionals involving data points of two types.
Targeted and novel therapy in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Selim Julie H. , Shaheen Shagufta , Sheu Wei-Chun , Hsueh Chung-Tsen 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe systemic treatment options for advanced gastric cancer (GC) have evolved rapidly in recent years. We have reviewed the recent data of clinical trial incorporating targeted agents, including inhibitors of angiogenesis, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), mesenchymal–epithelial transition, epidermal growth factor receptor, mammalian target of rapamycin, claudin-18.2, programmed death-1 and DNA. Addition of trastuzumab to platinum-based chemotherapy has become standard of care as front-line therapy in advanced GC overexpressing HER2. In the second-line setting, ramucirumab with paclitaxel significantly improves overall survival compared to paclitaxel alone. For patients with refractory disease, apatinib, nivolumab, ramucirumab and TAS-102 have demonstrated single-agent activity with improved overall survival compared to placebo alone. Pembrolizumab has demonstrated more than 50% response rate in microsatellite instability-high tumors, 15% response rate in tumors expressing programmed death ligand 1, and non-inferior outcome in first-line treatment compared to chemotherapy. This review summarizes the current state and progress of research on targeted therapy for advanced GC.