bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Special Issue on Integrated Knowledge on Innovative Robot Mechanisms
Authors: Takesue Naoyuki , Koganezawa Koichi , Tadakuma Kenjiro 
Published: December 2018

A robot is a system integrated with many elements such as actuators, sensors, computers, and mechanical components. Currently, progress in the field of artificial intelligence induced by tremendous improvements in computer processing capabilities has enabled robots to behave in a more sophisticated manner, which is drawing considerable attention. On the other hand, the mechanism that directly produces robot movements and mechanical work sometimes brings out some competencies that cannot be provided solely by computer control that relies on sensor feedback.
This special issue on “Integrated Knowledge on Innovative Robot Mechanisms” aims to introduce a knowledge system for robot mechanisms that bring forth useful and innovative functions and values.
The editors hope that the studies discussed in this special issue will help in the realization and further improvement of the mechanical functions of robots in the real world.
Influence of Shale Conductivities on the Electrical Conductivity of Low-Permeability Rocks
Authors: Volk L. J. , Raible C. J. , Carroll H. B. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction
Many of the wells now being drilled in the tight gas sands in the western U.S. are using potassium-based drilling muds to help stabilize the days being encountered. Consequently; there has been some concern that the potassium and sodium ions may behave differently in electric-logging. For example, in free water K + has an equivalent conductance almost 50% greater than the Na + ion at 25° C.
The. model proposed by Waxman and Smits 1 (WS) and the Dual-Water (D-W) model of Clavier et al.2 are those most commonly used to explain the conductivity of shaly formations. These models have been used primarily with the sodium counterion. In this report, these models are examined with data based on the potassium counterion.
Arthritis Prevention in the Pre-Clinical Phase of RA with Abatacept (the APIPPRA Study): A Multi-Centre, Randomised, Double Blind, Parallel Group Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Al-Laith Mariam , Jasenecova Marianna , Abraham Sonya , Bosworth Aisla , Bruce Ian N. , Buckley Christopher D. , Ciurtin Coziana , D’Agostino Maria-Antonietta , Emery Paul , Gaston Hill , Isaacs John D. , Filer Andrew , Fisher Benjamin A. , Huizinga Thomas W. J. , Ho Pauline , Jacklin Clare , Lempp Heidi , McInnes Iain B. , Pratt Arthur G. , Östor Andrew , Raza Karim , Taylor Peter C. , Schaardenburg Dirkjan van , Shivapatham Dharshene , Wright Alison J. , Vasconcelos Joana C. , Kelly Joanna , Murphy Caroline , Prevost A. Toby , Cope Andrew P. 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background:
Individuals with joint pain and carrying serum autoantibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at high risk of developing RA. While there are currently no evidence-based guidelines to inform therapy decisions for such subjects, there are therapies licensed for the treatment of established RA that target pathways implicated in the earliest phase of the disease. Accordingly, we set out to test the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of a 52-week period of treatment with the first in class costimulatory blocker abatacept for preventing or delaying the onset of inflammatory arthritis.
Methods and Design
The APIPPRA study was designed as a randomised, double blind, parallel group placebo-controlled clinical trial, aiming to recruit 206 male or female subjects from the secondary care hospital setting across the UK and the Netherlands. Participants aged 18 or over who report inflammatory sounding joint pain (clinically suspicious arthralgia) and who are found to be positive for serum autoantibodies associated with RA, will be randomised to receive weekly injections of investigational medicinal product (IMP), either abatacept or placebo treatment over a 52-week period. All study subjects consent to a further 52 weeks of follow up to monitor for the primary endpoint, the time to development of ≥ 3 swollen joints, or to the fulfillment of the 2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for RA using swollen but not tender joints, whichever endpoint is met first. In either case, swollen joints are confirmed by ultrasonography.
Discussion
There is limited experience of the design and implementation of trials for the prevention of inflammatory joint diseases. Here, we propose to explore the effects of immunomodulatory therapy at the very earliest detectable phase of disease using an intervention that is already licensed for use in established RA. We discuss the rationale behind choice and duration of treatment, the challenges associated with defining the “at risk” state, and offer pragmatic solutions in the protocol to enrolling subjects at risk of RA.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials, ID: ISRCTN46017566. Registered on 04 July 2014
Myasthenic Crisis Treated in a Neurological Intensive Care Unit: Clinical Features, Mortality, Outcomes, and Predictors of Survival
Authors: Liu Fan , Wang Qiong , Chen Xueping 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Myasthenic crisis (MC) often requires admission to an intensive care unit (ICU).
Methods: We retrospectively investigated 115 consecutive patients with first MC admitted to the neurological ICU. Patients’ demographic, clinical and other characteristics were examined, as well as therapeutic interventions; mortality and functional outcome.
Results: MC patients admitted to neurological ICU had a mortality rate of 24.34%. PCO2 level before intubation and score on Myasthenia Gravis–Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) scale at MC onset correlated with duration of ventilation and length of ICU stay. Compared with patients with good functional outcome, patients with intermediate or poor functional outcome were older at first MC onset, had lower pH and PO2, and had higher PCO2 before intubation. Multivariate logistic analysis identified pre-intubation PCO2 level as an independent predictor of survival. Cox regression showed that age at first MC onset requiring ICU management was the factor which significantly influenced the mortality. Conclusions: Our results suggest that PCO2 before intubation and MG-ADL score at MC onset may be useful indicators of more severe disease likely to require extensive respiratory support and ICU management. Higher pre-intubation PCO2 indicates chronic respiratory acidosis that can increase risk of severe disability and death, especially in patients with older age at first MC onset.
Clinical Features and Prognosis of Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis during Pregnancy and Puerperium
Authors: Gai Qing , Leng Changmu , Cong Shuyan 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare and serious complication during pregnancy and puerperium with a variety of clinical features. Little is known about the prognostic factors of CVST during the acute phase, subsequent pregnancy outcomes, and the risk of recurrence of CVST. The purpose of the study is to investigate the clinical features and prognosis of pregnancy-related CVST in China.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 41 patients diagnosed with CVST during pregnancy or puerperium from January 2007 through March 2018 in Shengjing Hospital. Poor outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ³3 at discharge. Independent prognostic factors for CVST outcome were identified via multivariate logistic regression analysis. Long-term outpatient interview was followed to know the next pregnancies outcome and CVST relapse rate.
Results: CVST occurred about 2.4 times (29 vs. 12) during puerperium than in pregnancy. Headache (90%) was found the most common clinical feature, followed by focal neurologic deficits (61%), seizure (59%), visual disorder (37%) and impaired consciousness (29%). The multivariate analysis revealed D-dimer levels >1134 µg/L (OR=18.67, 95% CI:1.79-194.84) and impaired consciousness (OR=33.85, 95% CI: 3.14-365.45) were independent prognostic factors of a poor outcome during acute phase. Twenty-eight (68%) patients underwent a long-term interview. Only three women had multiple pregnancies (six pregnancies, two in each women), but no birth occurred from these. One patient had a relapse of CVST three years later, which had no relationship with pregnancy or puerperium.
Conclusions: CVST occurred mostly during puerperium. D-dimer levels >1134µg/L and impaired consciousness could predict poor outcomes of pregnancy-related CVST. The subsequent pregnancy rate and CVST relapse rate was low in this Chinese population.
Cerebral salt wasting in a patient with myeloproliferative neoplasm
Authors: Orlik Lea , Venzin Reto , Fehr Thomas , Hohloch Karin 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Cerebral salt wasting (CSW) is a rare metabolic disorder with severe hyponatremia and volume depletion usually caused by brain injury like trauma, cerebral lesion, tumor or a cerebral hematoma. The renal function is normal with excretion of very high amounts of sodium in the urine. Diagnosis is made by excluding other reasons for hyponatremia, mainly the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).
Case report: A 60-year-old patient was admitted to the emergency room with pain in the upper abdomen and visual disturbance two weeks after knee replacement. The patient was confused with severe hematoma at the site of the knee endoprosthesis. Laboratory values showed massive thrombocytosis, leukocytosis, anemia, severe hyponatremia and no evidence of infection. CT scan of the abdomen was inconspicuous. Head MRI showed no ischemia or bleeding, but a mild microangiopathy. A myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) was suspected and confirmed by bone marrow biopsy. Cerebral salt wasting syndrome was identified as the cause of severe hyponatremia most likely provoked by cerebral microcirculatory disturbance. The hematoma at the operation site was interpreted as a result of a secondary von Willebrand syndrome (vWS) due to the myeloproliferative neoplasm with massive thrombocytosis. After starting cytoreductive therapy with hydroxycarbamide, thrombocytosis and blood sodium slowly improved along with normalization of his mental condition.
Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge this is the first description of a patient with CSW most likely caused by a microcirculatory disturbance due to a massive thrombocytosis in the context of a myleopoliferative neoplasm.
Key words: Cerebral salt wasting syndrome, hyponatremia, myeloproliferative syndrome
Quality of life in patients with stroke at 1-year after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation: A multicenter study
Authors: Kuptniratsaikul Vilai , Thanakiatpinyo Thanitta , Hongsapol Chawalit 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Stroke is a major health problem leading to chronic disability and a negative impact on the quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to investigate QoL and its related factors 1-year after discharge from post-stroke inpatient rehabilitation.
Methods: This longitudinal study was performed among 9 rehabilitation centres. QoL of stroke patients was evaluated using the WHOQOL-BREF. Its score ranged from 26-130, with a higher score representing better QoL. Factors related to QoL were analysed using univariate and multiple linear regression.
Results: One hundred and ninety-seven patients were recruited, with a mean age of 62.3 years. The majority of patients were male (57.4%). The mean score of QoL score of patients with stroke at 1-year was significantly lower than the score at discharge period. In multiple linear regression analysis, 5 factors were associated with QoL, including having a leisure activity, modified Barthel Index at follow-up period, need caregiver, anxiety, and depression score with regression coefficient (b) of 6.29 (95%CI: 2.23, 10.35), 0.63 (95%CI: 0.07, 1.20), -7.72 (95%CI: -12.04, -3.40), -0.78 (95%CI: -1.40, -0.17), and -1.14 (95% CI: -1.72, -0.57).
Conclusion: At 1 year, patients with stroke had poorer QoL compared to discharge period. Factors strongly related to QoL included having leisure activity, no need for caregiver, and no depression. The other factor were high functional score at follow-up period and no anxiety. Further study with adequate sample size and consider physician visits to patients who fail to follow-up should be performed in order to strengthen the integrity of these findings.
Trial registration: TCTR20180531006 (Retrospectively registered). Date 31 May 2018
Keywords: Stroke, quality of life, rehabilitation, WHOQOL-BREF
The ASSIST Study - The BD Odon Device for assisted vaginal birth: a safety and feasibility study
Authors: O'Brien Stephen , Hotton Emily , Lenguerrand Erik , Wade Julia , Winter Cathy , Draycott Tim , Crofts Joanna J , Team Assist Study 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Assisted vaginal birth is a vital health intervention that can result in better outcomes for mothers and their babies when complications arise in the second stage of labour. Unfortunately, instruments for assisted vaginal birth (forceps and ventouse) are often not utilised in settings where there is most clinical need, resulting in maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality which could have been prevented. The BD Odon Device is a new device for assisted vaginal birth which may be able to address this unmet need. However, before dissemination the device requires evaluation in robust clinical trials. A feasibility study to investigate the clinical impact, safety and acceptability of the BD Odon Device for assisted vaginal birth is therefore planned. This will provide further information on acceptability, recruitment and the outcome data required to design a future randomised controlled trial of the BD Odon Device versus Kiwi ventouse.
Methods: Forty women who require an assisted vaginal birth for a recognised clinical indication will have the birth assisted with the BD Odon Device. The primary outcome is successful vaginal birth completed with the BD Odon Device. Secondary clinical outcomes include maternal and neonatal outcomes, and maternal and practitioner satisfaction. Safety data will be reviewed following every birth.
Discussion: A future randomised controlled trial (RCT) of the BD Odon Device versus current standard instrument (the Kiwi ventouse) is planned. The findings of the ASSIST Study will inform the RCT design.
Trial registration: ISRCTN registration: ISRCTN10203171 (prospectively registered 27/07/2018).
Keywords: BD Odon Device, forceps, ventouse, assisted birth, birth, intrapartum research
Targeted Interventions to Prevent Chronic Low Back Pain in High Risk Patients: Development and Delivery of a Pragmatic Training Course of Psychologically Informed Physical Therapy for the TARGET Trial
Authors: Beneciuk Jason , George Steven Z. , Greco Carol , Schneider Michael , Wegener Stephen T. , Saper Robert , Delitto Anthony 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a public health concern because it is highly prevalent and the leading cause of disability worldwide. Psychologically Informed Physical Therapy (PIPT) is secondary prevention approach that first aims to identify individuals at high risk for transitioning to chronicity and then provides tailored treatment to reduce that risk. Training models that are feasible to implement with acceptable training quality are needed to improve scalability for widespread implementation of PIPT. This manuscript describes the PIPT training program that was developed for training physical therapists providing PIPT in the TARGET Trial.
Methods: The PIPT training program was developed, tested, and modified using an iterative process. Content development consisted of stakeholder engagement, beta testing, modification of training and confirmation of final course objectives. Methods of delivery consisted of a website that included brief educational modules followed by a live 8 hour workshop that included video based mock case scenarios and case-based role playing. Attitudes, beliefs and confidence in implementing PIPT principles were assessed before and immediately after training to measure training quality and impact.
Results: Early stakeholder engagement and beta testing indicated the need for increased emphasis on experiential learning opportunities and patient-centered communication training. Booster training varied extensively across TARGET sites with involvement of ‘clinician champions’ brief follow-up sessions identified as best practice. Favorable post training changes in physical therapist attitudes and beliefs toward biopsychosocial treatment orientation and increased confidence in implementing PIPT principles were observed.
Conclusions: PIPT training for provider participation in the TARGET Trial was feasible to deliver. Course content was acceptable to physical therapists and resulted in improved beliefs and confidence in applying PIPT skills during clinical practice. Ongoing consultation and site-based continuing education were methods by which specific TARGET sites maintained or augmented PIPT skill training, however implementing ongoing training was challenging in general. Consistent with a pragmatic trial whether this training directly impacted treatment fidelity was not measured, which was a limitation to our training approach.
Measuring Clinical Uncertainty by Applying the Agreement Study Methodology to Patient Management Decisions
Authors: Fahed Robert , Darsaut Tim E. , Farzin Behzad , Chagnon Miguel , Raymond Jean 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Clinical dilemmas in the treatment of patients translate into disagreements in decision-making. Such disagreements can reveal clinical uncertainty that should be addressed through care research. Our goal was to explore the use of reliability study methods to measure the degree of clinical uncertainty regarding the use of rival management options.
Methods: The study design resembles an inter-/intra-observer diagnostic reliability study. A portfolio of a sufficient number of diverse individual patients sharing a similar clinical problem and covering a wide spectrum of clinical presentations can be independently submitted to a variety of clinicians who manage that problem. Clinicians are asked to choose one of the predefined management options that are involved in the clinical dilemma. Intra-rater agreement can be assessed at a later time with a second evaluation.
Results: Descriptive statistics are presented, and results analyzed using kappa statistics. Interpretation of results can be facilitated by providing examples or by translating the results into clinically meaningful summary sentences. Reporting should follow standard guidelines.
Conclusion: Measuring the uncertainty regarding management options for clinical problems may reveal disagreements and inform or facilitate the design/conduct of clinical trials to address the clinical dilemma.
Las notificaciones por edictos a los residentes peruanos en el extranjero en los procesos judiciales de alimentos. Lima, 2016
Authors: Hermoza Calero Jessica Pilar 
Published: December 2018

La presente investigación, “Las notificaciones por edictos a los residentes peruanos en el extranjero en los procesos judiciales de alimentos. Lima, 2016”, tuvo como objetivo determinar de qué manera las notificaciones por edictos a los residentes peruanos en el extranjero causa indefensión en los procesos judiciales de alimentos, Lima, 2016. La metodología es de tipo básico; el diseño, teoría fundamentada y transversal de nivel descriptivo-explicativo; el método fue inductivo, con un enfoque cualitativo; la muestra fue de cuatro abogados en derecho de familia; el proceso de recolección de datos fue una entrevista personal planteada, llegándose a las siguientes conclusiones: existe actualmente una indefensión en los procesos judiciales de alimentos a los residentes peruanos en el extranjero, en el caso que solo se desarrollan a través de las notificaciones vía exhorto, y en algunos casos no se ubican a los demandados o destinatarios.
La omisión del procurador público de proponer su pretensión reparatoria en etapa intermedia ¿Es posible continuar con la pretensión civil a pesar de que no se ha requerido un monto ni ofrecido medios probatorios?
Authors: Jiménez Jara Edgardo Salomón 
Published: December 2018

La presente investigación aborda aspectos referidos a una omisión del procurador público, en su condición de actor civil, de proponer el monto de su reparación civil y ofrecer los medios probatorios, durante la etapa intermedia. Estamos ante un hecho que no debería presentarse, pero ante lo cual el derecho procesal debe tener una respuesta, al no encontrarse regulada de manera expresa en el Código Procesal Penal Peruano. Tal vez aún no es posible imaginarnos una condena sin la fijación de un monto por reparación civil, pero la norma procesal penal vigente ya determina una absolución con la fijación de un monto por concepto de reparación civil. Por ello, resulta importante establecer la relación entre el derecho procesal penal y el derecho procesal civil, fijar criterios que permitan no solo darle solución a este problema sino definir si estamos ante un desistimiento de la pretensión civil o ante otra figura procesal.
La transferencia tecnológica en el entorno empresarial cubano
Authors: Rondón Valdés Jorge , Antúnez Sánchez Alcides 
Published: December 2018

El fenómeno tecnológico emerge definitivo y determinante para el desarrollo científico-técnico de cualquier país, como reto y perspectiva en el entorno empresarial. La construcción de estrategias más funcionales son garantes del avance tecnológico para la realización de su objeto social. Desde de la imposibilidad relativa de progreso científico-tecnológico endógeno, la transferencia de tecnologías deviene necesaria ante los pasos de una sociedad en vías de desarrollo. Su gradual evolución ha devenido poco pertinente, en ocasiones descontextualizada su implementación para las empresas cubanas como receptoras de paquetes tecnológicos, para fundamentar la necesariaconstrucción de un proceso que armonice las demandas y realidades. Se utilizaron como métodos de investigación: el análisis lógico e histórico jurídico, análisis-síntesis, inductivo- deductivo, exegético jurídico y de derecho comparado. Los aportes de esta investigación permiten la construcción de marcos teóricos que sustenten estrategias y procesos de transferencia tecnológica horizontales y pertinentes.
Ultrasound-Targeted Delivery Technology: A Novel Strategy for Tumor- Targeted Therapy
Authors: Du Meng , Chen Zhiyi , Chen Yuhao , Li Yue 
Published: December 2018

Background:Ultrasound has been widely used in clinical diagnosis because it is noninvasive, inexpensive, simple, and reproducible. With the development of molecular imaging, material science, and ultrasound contrast agents, ultrasound-targeted delivery technology has emerged. The interaction of ultrasound and molecular probes can be exploited to change the structures of cells and tissues in order to promote the targeted release of therapeutic substances to local tumors. The targeted delivery of drugs, genes, and gases would not only improve the efficacy of tumor treatment but also avoid the systemic toxicity and side effects caused by antitumor treatments. This technology was recently applied in clinical trials and showed enormous potential for clinical application.Objective:This article briefly introduces the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment and the principle of ultrasound-targeted delivery technology. To present recent progress in this field, this review focuses on the application of ultrasound-targeted delivery technology in tumor-targeted therapy, including drug delivery, gene transfection, and gas treatment.Results:The results of this study show that ultrasound-targeted delivery technology is a promising therapeutic strategy for tumor treatment.Conclusion:Ultrasound-targeted delivery technology shows promise with regard to cancer treatment.