bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of Deep Cloud Systems under Weak and Strong Synoptic Forcing during the Indian Summer Monsoon Season
Authors: Phadtare Jayesh , Bhat G. S. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractSynoptic-scale weather systems are often responsible for initiating mesoscale convective systems (MCSs). Here, we explore how synoptic forcing influences MCS characteristics, such as the maximum size, lifespan, cloud-top height, propagation speed, and triggering over the Indian region. We used 30-min interval infrared (IR) data of the Indian Kalpana-1 geostationary satellite. Cloud systems (CSs) in this data are identified and tracked using an object tracking algorithm. ERA-Interim 850-hPa vorticity is taken as a proxy for the synoptic forcing. The probability of CSs being larger, longer lived, and deeper is more in the presence of a synoptic-scale vorticity field; however, the influence of synoptic forcing is not evident on the westward propagation of CSs over land. There exists a linear relationship between maximum size, lifespan, and average cloud-top height of CSs regardless of the nature of synoptic forcing. Formation of CSs peaks around 1500 LST over land, which is independent of synoptic forcing. Over the north Bay of Bengal, CSs formation is predominantly nocturnal when synoptic forcing is strong, whereas, 0300 and 1200 LST are the preferred times when synoptic forcing is weak. Long-lived CSs are preferentially triggered in the western flank of the 850-hPa vorticity gradient field of a monsoon low pressure system. Once triggered, CSs propagate westward and ahead of the synoptic system and dissipate around midnight. Formation of new CSs on the next day occurs in the afternoon hours in the wake of previous day’s CSs and where vorticity gradient is also present. Formation and westward propagations of CSs on successive days move the synoptic envelope westward.
Electrical impedance tomography in 3D flood embankments testing – elastic net approach
Authors: Rymarczyk Tomasz , Kozłowski Edward , Kłosowski Grzegorz 
Published: June 2019

The article presents non-destructive testing based on electrical impedance tomography (EIT) for spatial (3D) monitoring of flood embankments. Therefore, to solve the inverse problem of the EIT, an effective algorithm based on multiple elastic nets has been developed. The originality of the solution is based on the application of many elastic net algorithms as functions, each of which, based on the vector of all measurements, generates the value of a single pixel for the reconstructed image. In this way, the set of elastic nets is equal to the resolution of the image output. Such an approach, although requiring more computing power, yields high resolution images. In addition, the presented algorithms are characterized by high noise immunity and distortion of measurement data. Five different electrode systems were tested in the samples and compared with each other in two measurement variants (stimulations). A reconstruction made on the basis of actual measurements obtained from the physical model was also presented. The presented solution provides a visual analysis of seepages and leaks, which allows for quick and effective intervention and possible prevention of dangers. The research proved that the use of tomographic measurement techniques in combination with the image reconstruction algorithm based on elastic net allows for non-invasive and very accurate spatial assessment of leaks and damages of flood embankments. The received results confirm the effectiveness of the presented research.
Retrospective Analysis of Oxcarbazepine in Pregnant Women With Substance Use Disorders: Focus on Safety
Authors: Johnson Kayla D. , Miller Lindsey N. , Pouliot Jonathon D. , Martin Peter R. 
Published: June 2019

Background: Published safety data in pregnant epileptic women suggests that oxcarbazepine (OXC) may be a treatment option in nonepileptic pregnant women with substance use disorders (SUDs) and psychiatric symptomatology. Objective: To compare safety outcomes associated with OXC exposure versus non-exposure in nonepileptic pregnant women with SUD and comorbid psychiatric symptomatology. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify pregnant women 18 years or older with a SUD who delivered at the study site. Exclusion criteria included a current diagnosis of epilepsy/seizure disorder; concurrent use of lithium, anticonvulsants, medications with a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy program or a black box warning for potential fetal toxicity; and multi-parity. Eligible patients were divided into two groups based on OXC exposure. Results: The OXC group included 94 mother-neonate pairs versus 194 mother-neonate pairs in the non-OXC group. Baseline characteristics differed in mean number of prior pregnancies (2.8 vs 2.2 in the OXC and non-OXC group, respectively, P = .03). No significant differences were found regarding emergent cesarean or maternal hyponatremia. Average gestational age at OXC initiation was 19.8 weeks. No significant differences were found in the rates of prematurity, physical characteristics, malformation, and neonatal abstinence syndrome. Conclusion: OXC may be considered for management of SUD with comorbid psychiatric symptomatology in nonepileptic pregnant women. Further studies should be conducted to determine statistical significance in larger sample sizes.
Suboptimal outcomes after internal fixation for displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures in 50- to 60-year-old patients
Authors: Chang Chun-Hung , Tsai Shang-Wen , Wu Po-Kuei , Chen Chao-Ming , Chang Ming-Chau , Chen Wei-Ming , Chen Cheng-Fong 
Published: June 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of internal fixation for displaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) between 50 and 60 years old. The patient and surgical factors for the failure were identified. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 102 displaced FNF patients between 50 and 60 years old (mean age 54.9 years) who had undergone internal fixation between 2005 and 2016. The minimum follow-up was 12 months. Primary end points included loss of reduction, non-union, and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Preoperative Pauwel’s angle, fixation timing and methods, reduction quality, removal of implant and medical comorbidities were analysed. Results: The overall failure rate was 44.1%. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, poor reduction quality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.54–12.46) and internal fixation delayed more than 6 hours (aOR 3.24; 95% CI, 1.08–9.69) were risk factors for all causes of failure. In a stratified analysis, poor reduction quality (aOR 3.81; 95% CI, 1.11–13.04) and a history of alcohol dependency (aOR 4.91; 95% CI, 1.09–22.13) were risk factors for loss of reduction. Internal fixation delayed >6 hours (aOR 3.67; 95% CI, 1.05–12.77) and removal of implant (aOR 3.32; 95% CI, 1.02–10.77) were risk factors for ONFH. Conclusions: The outcome of internal fixation of displaced FNF in patients between 50 and 60 years old is suboptimal. The patient selection is important. Non-alcohol dependency lowered early failure. Implant retention reduced ONFH. Surgery within 6 hours and good quality of reduction yield better results.
FemoSeal® vascular closure device for antegrade common femoral artery access: Safety and technical notes
Authors: Tagliaferro Francesco Bruno , Orgera Gianluigi , Mascagni Luca , Laurino Florindo , Tipaldi Marcello Andrea , Cariati Maurizio , Rossi Michele 
Published: June 2019

Purpose: To retrospectively assess the efficacy and safety of FemoSeal® vascular closure device to achieve hemostasis following antegrade common femoral artery puncture after lower limb revascularization using vascular sheaths from 5 to 8 Fr. Methods: We reviewed the hemostatic outcome achieved with FemoSeal in 103 consecutive patients (mean age: 69 ± 8 years, 71 males) that undergone to 111 antegrade common femoral artery accesses for percutaneous lower limbs revascularization using 5- to 8-Fr vascular sheaths. We used FemoSeal in an unselected population, without exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the technical success, meant as achieving complete hemostasis without immediate complications. Results: Hemostasis was achieved in all 111 puncture sites (100% technical success). We observed eight (7%) puncture site minor complications (hematomas), none of which affecting the patients’ outcome or requiring further therapies or increasing the hospital stay. There were no statistically significant differences between the variables potentially related to the occurrence of complications (age, international normalized ratio, platelet count, partial thromboplastin time ratio, body mass index, and common femoral arteries calcification grade) in patients with and without complications. Complications group mean body mass index was 26.4 ± 2.8 kg/m2 versus non-complications group 26.6 ± 4.4 kg/m2, p = 0.92. Mean international normalized ratio and partial thromboplastin time ratio were 1.05 ± 0.01 and 1.05 ± 0.14 versus 1.13 ± 0.2 (p = 0.39) and 1.12 ± 0.23 (p = 0.53), respectively. Common femoral arteries calcification grade was the same (mean: 1, p = 1). Platelet count was 202 × 103/mL ± 66.7 versus 226 × 103/mL ± 91.2, p = 0.55. Mean age was 72.3 ± 10 years versus 72.8 ± 8 years, p = 0.86. Conclusion: The low rate (7%) and grading of the adverse events, combined with the high technical success rate (100%), in an unselected group of patients treated in daily routine, suggest high safety and efficacy of FemoSeal vascular closure device in antegrade common femoral artery puncture site hemostasis when using vascular sheaths ranging from 5 to 8 Fr. Therefore, FemoSeal could be considered as a first-line hemostasis strategy in such cases.
Secondary Leiomyosarcoma of the Lower Limb Following Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential
Authors: García-Sánchez Jose María , Bauza Mónica , Pérez-García Alberto , Mayordomo Aranda Empar , Ruiz Valls Alejandro 
Published: June 2019

Introduction: This report presents uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential course with an unpredictable clinical behavior and late metastases. Metastases have been described to the humerus, lung, and peritoneum. Case Presentation: Hereby we present the case of a 71-year-old woman with a past surgical history of hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy due to a smooth muscle tumor of unknown malignant potential, who was evaluated 6 years later after the appearance of a mass in the proximal third of the right lower limb. The mass was diagnosed as a G1 epithelioid leiomyosarcoma and was surgically removed with immediate reconstruction with a tendinous transfer to the tibialis posterior muscle to maintain foot dorsiflexion. Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with smooth uterine muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential should be closely followed up given the possibility of recurrence and late metastases, bearing in mind uncommon locations as well, such as the lower limb.
A systematic review of randomised controlled trials using psychological interventions for children and adolescents with medically unexplained symptoms: A focus on mental health outcomes
Authors: O’Connell Christine , Shafran Roz , Bennett Sophie 
Published: June 2019

Background: Medically unexplained symptoms affect between 4% and 20% of children and adolescents; 30–60% of these children also experience mental health difficulties. Trials and reviews have focussed on physical gains in this population, often overlooking mental health outcomes. Objectives: To use a systematic review methodology guided by the PRISMA checklist to (1) investigate the effectiveness of psychological interventions for mental health difficulties in children and adolescents with medically unexplained symptoms and (2) identify aspects of interventions associated with their success. Methods: Randomised controlled studies investigating the impact of psychological interventions on mental health in children and adolescents with medically unexplained symptoms were included. Systematic searches of PsycINFO, MEDLINE and CINAHL were undertaken from inception to January 2018. Studies were appraised using the quality appraisal checklist. A qualitative synthesis of studies was completed. Results: In all, 18 studies were identified. Interventions targeting parental responses to illness and family communication appeared to have the best outcomes. Conclusions: Psychological interventions may be effective in improving mental health outcomes within this population; however, evidence for the efficacy of these interventions is limited due to a high risk of bias within the majority of reviewed studies. Future research using rigorous methodology and non–cognitive behavioural therapy interventions is recommended.
Mind–body interactive qigong improves physical and mental aspects of quality of life in inpatients with stroke: A randomized control study
Authors: Chen Ching-Hsiang , Hung Kuo-Sheng , Chung Yu-Chu , Yeh Mei-Ling 
Published: June 2019

Background: Stroke, a medical condition that causes physical disability and mental health problems, impacts negatively on quality of life. Post-stroke rehabilitation is critical to restoring quality of life in these patients. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of a mind–body interactive qigong intervention on the physical and mental aspects of quality of life, considering bio-physiological and mental covariates in subacute stroke inpatients. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with repeated measures design was used. A total of 68 participants were recruited from the medical and rehabilitation wards at a teaching hospital in northern Taiwan and then randomly assigned either to the Chan-Chuang qigong group, which received standard care plus a 10-day mind–body interactive exercise program, or to the control group, which received standard care only. Data were collected using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Short Form-12, stroke-related neurologic deficit, muscular strength, heart rate variability and fatigue at three time points: pre-intervention, halfway through the intervention (day 5) and on the final day of the intervention (day 10). Results: The results of the mixed-effect model analysis showed that the qigong group had a significantly higher quality of life score at day 10 ( p<0.05) than the control group. Among the covariates, neurologic deficit ( p=0.04), muscle strength ( p=0.04), low frequency to high frequency ratio ( p=0.02) and anxiety ( p=0.04) were significantly associated with changes in quality of life. Conversely, heart rate, heart rate variability (standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals, low frequency and high frequency), fatigue and depression were not significantly associated with change in quality of life ( p >0.05). Conclusions: This study supports the potential benefits of a 10-day mind–body interactive exercise (Chan-Chuang qigong) program for subacute stroke inpatients and provides information that may be useful in planning adjunctive rehabilitative care for stroke inpatients.
The anti-inflammatory potential of diet and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: the ATTICA study
Authors: Tyrovolas Stefanos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B. , Georgousopoulou Ekavi N. , Chrysohoou Christina , Skoumas John , Pan William , Tousoulis Dimitrios , Pitsavos Christos 
Published: June 2019

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is correlated with low-grade inflammation and dietary habits. Until today, there have been limited epidemiologic data assessing the role of diet’s inflammatory potential on NAFLD. The aim was to evaluate the relationship between an anti-inflammatory diet, as reflected by the Dietary Anti-Inflammation Index (D-AII), and NAFLD among cardiovascular disease (CVD)-free adults. Methods: ATTICA is a prospective, population-based study that recruited 3042 adults without pre-existing CVD from the Greek population (Whites; age ⩾18 years; 1514 men and 1528 women). D-AII was calculated using a standard procedure. The baseline study captured various sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical characteristics as well as hepatic markers. These were used to calculate four NAFLD assessment indices: triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, fatty liver index (FLI), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and NAFLD Fatty Liver Score (NAFLD-FLS). Specific cutoffs were applied to capture NAFLD. Results: D-AII showed a significant inverse association with NAFLD, applying the four indices with NAFLD cutoffs [odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI); TyG (0.95, 0.93–0.98); HSI (0.89, 0.86–0.92); FLI (0.88, 0.85–0.91); NAFLD-FLS (0.89, 0.86–0.92)], after adjusting for various confounders. Participants in the highest D-AII tertile had lower odds of having NAFLD, compared with those in the lowest D-AII tertile [(OR, 95% CI); TyG (0.33, 0.24–0.47); HSI (0.13, 0.08–0.23); FLI (0.05, 0.02–0.11); NAFLD-FLS (0.13, 0.07–0.23)]. Anti-inflammatory nutrition was related to lower odds of NAFLD among daily alcohol drinkers and individuals with metabolic syndrome. Conclusions: Anti-inflammatory diet is an important predictor of NAFLD among adults without pre-existing CVD. Adherence to a high anti-inflammatory diet seems to contribute to NAFLD prevention.
‘No one ever asked us’: a feasibility study assessing the co-creation of a physical activity programme with adolescent girls
Authors: Corr Méabh , Murtagh Elaine 
Published: June 2019

Background: Globally, the poor activity level of adolescent girls is a public health concern. Little research has involved adolescents in the design of interventions. This study assessed the feasibility of involving girls in the co-creation of an activity programme. Methods: Thirty-one students (15–17 years old) were recruited from a post-primary school. The Behaviour Change Wheel guided intervention design, providing insights into participants’ capability, opportunity and motivation for change. Step counts and self-reported physical activity levels were recorded pre- and post-intervention. Feasibility benchmarks assessed recruitment, data collection, acceptability and adherence. Results: Activity and educational sessions were delivered for six weeks during physical education class. Average attendance was 87% (benchmark = 80%). Eligibility was 61% (benchmark = 60%). There was a 100% retention rate (benchmark = 90%). All participants ( n = 31) completed baseline measures and 71% ( n = 22) completed post-measures. 54% ( n = 17) of students completed pedometer measurements, with 32% ( n = 10) having complete data. Average daily steps were 13,121 pre-intervention and 14,128 post-intervention ( p > 0.05). Data collection was feasible, receiving a mean score > 4/5 (benchmark > 3.5/5). Conclusions: The Behaviour Change Wheel can be used to co-create an activity programme with adolescent girls. Predetermined benchmarks, except for pedometer recordings, were reached or exceeded, providing evidence for the need of a randomised controlled trial to test effectiveness.
Functional risk for fracture by safe functional motion testing: a short version of the safe functional motion test
Authors: Recknor Christopher P. , Van Dussen Daniel , MacIntyre Norma , Recknor Julie 
Published: June 2019

Background: ‘Unsafe’ movement strategies used to perform everyday activities were quantified using scores for tasks included in the Short Form Safe Functional Motion test series (SSFM). Baseline scores were independently associated with incident fractures after adjusting for factors known to effect fracture risk. The purpose of the present study is to determine whether the SSFM, a series of tests of habitual motion, is associated with incident fragility fracture at any skeletal sites. Methods: An osteoporosis clinic database was queried for adults with baseline SSFM scores and corresponding data for prevalent fractures, femoral neck bone mineral density (fnBMD), osteoporosis medication use, and incident fractures at 1-year and 3-year follow ups [ n = 1700 (118 incident fractures) and n = 1058 (202 incident fractures), respectively]. Multiple logistic regressions, adjusted for sex, age, fnBMD, osteoporosis medication use, and any prevalent fractures at baseline, were used to determine whether baseline SSFM scores were associated with incident fragility fractures. Results: An Sfm-3 score was a significant independent predictor of any fracture at 1 year [adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) = 1.118 (1.025, 1.219) for each 10-point decrease in Sfm-3; p = 0.012], and 3-year follow up [adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) = 1.183 (1.098, 1.274) for each 10-point decrease in Sfm-3; p < 0.0001]. Conclusions: Scores on the SSFM predict fracture risk such that for each 10-point drop in score the odds of fracture are increased by up to 18% independent of risk associated with age, bone mineral density, use of bone-sparing medications, and history of a fracture.
Applicability of EU(7)-PIM criteria in cross-national studies in European countries
Authors: Fialová Daniela , Brkić Jovana , Laffon Blanca , Reissigová Jindra , Grešáková Silvia , Dogan Soner , Doro Peter , Tasić Ljiljana , Marinković Valentina , Valdiglesias Vanessa , Costa Solange , Kostřiba Jan 
Published: June 2019

Background: The European Union (EU)(7)-PIM (potentially inappropriate medication) list presents the most comprehensive and up-to-date tool for evaluation of PIM prescribing in Europe; however, several country-specific studies have documented lower specificity of this list on pharmaceutical markets of some countries. The aim of our study was to describe approval rates and marketing of PIMs stated by EU(7)-PIM criteria in six EU countries [in comparison with the American Geriatric Society (AGS) Beers 2015 criteria]. Methods: Research teams of six EU countries (Czech Republic, Spain, Portugal, Serbia, Hungary and Turkey) participated in this study conducted by WG1b EU COST Action IS1402 group in the period October 2015–November 2018. Data on approval rates of PIMs and their availability on pharmaceutical markets have been obtained from databases of national drug-regulatory institutes and up-to-date drug compendia. The EU(7)-PIM list and AGS Beers 2015 Criteria (Section 1) were applied. Results: PIMs from EU(7)-PIM list were approved for clinical use more often than those from the AGS Beers 2015 criteria (Section 1). Approval rates for EU(7)-PIMs ranged from 42.8% in Serbia to 71.4% in Spain (for AGS criteria only from 36.4% to 65.1%, respectively). Higher percentages of approved PIMs were documented in Spain (71.4%), Portugal (67.1%) and Turkey (67.5%), lower in Hungary (55.5%), Czech Republic (50.2%) and Serbia (42.8%). The majority of approved PIMs were also currently marketed in all countries except in Turkey (19.8–21.7% not marketed PIMs) and less than 20% of PIMs were available as over-the-counter medications (except in Turkey, 46.4–48.1%). Conclusions: The EU(7)-PIM list was created for utilization in European studies; however, applicability of this list is still limited in some countries, particularly in Eastern and Central Europe. The EU project EUROAGEISM H2020 (2017–2021) that focuses on PIM prescribing and regulatory measures in Central and Eastern European countries must consider these limits.