bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnosing the Horizontal Propagation of Rossby Wave Packets along the Midlatitude Waveguide
Authors: Wolf Gabriel , Wirth Volkmar 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIt has been suggested that upper-tropospheric Rossby wave packets propagating along the midlatitude waveguide may play a role for triggering severe weather. This motivates the search for robust methods to detect and track Rossby wave packets and to diagnose their properties. In the framework of several observed cases, this paper compares different methods that have been proposed for these tasks, with an emphasis on horizontal propagation and on a particular formulation of a wave activity flux previously suggested by Takaya and Nakamura. The utility of this flux is compromised by the semigeostrophic nature of upper-tropospheric Rossby waves, but this problem can partly be overcome by a semigeostrophic coordinate transformation. The wave activity flux allows one to obtain information from a single snapshot about the meridional propagation, in particular propagation from or into polar and subtropical latitudes, as well as about the onset of wave breaking. This helps to clarify the dynamics of individual wave packets in cases where other, more conventional methods provide ambiguous or even misleading information. In some cases, the “true dynamics” of the Rossby wave packet turns out to be more complex than apparent from the more conventional diagnostics, and this may have important implications for the predictability of the wave packet.
Radar Kinematic Information as a Surrogate for Isentropes in Stratiform Precipitation Systems
Authors: Geerts Bart , Christian Jordan I. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThis study illustrates that dual-Doppler-derived wind shear (vertical gradient of the horizontal wind) in stratiform, nonturbulent flow is structured in long, thin striations. The reason this has not been documented before is that scanning ground-based radars have inadequate vertical resolution, deteriorating with range. Here data from an airborne radar with a fine, range-independent vertical resolution are used. A comparison of the radar-derived wind shear with model output of isentropes in vertical transects in the comma head of two frontal disturbances suggests that the wind shear layers describe material surfaces. Model output itself further confirms the alignment of isentropes with wind shear in vertical transects. Thus, Doppler-radar-derived wind shear (a kinematic conserved variable) may serve as a suitable proxy for thermodynamic conserved variables such as equivalent potential temperature in stratiform precipitation. Furthermore, the presence of shear striations in vertical transects can be used as a marker for nonturbulent flow, and their persistence as an indicator of limited dispersion in such flow.
Reactivity of bilirubin photoisomers on the measurement of direct bilirubin using vanadic acid method
Authors: Okada Hitoshi , Itoh Susumu , Kawamoto Shohei , Ozaki Miyo , Kusaka Takashi 
Published: May 2017

Objective Investigation of the reactivity of fractions of bilirubin photoisomers with the vanadic acid oxidation method. Methods Bilirubin photoisomers were prepared by irradiating a bilirubin/human serum albumin solution with blue light emitting diode. Direct bilirubin and bilirubin fractions were measured using the vanadic acid oxidation method and high-performance liquid chromatography in the sample before and after irradiation. Results Direct bilirubin was increased in the solution containing bilirubin photoisomers. ( EE)-/( EZ) -cyclobilirubin-IXα and ( ZE)-/( EZ)-bilirubin-IXα completely disappeared after the addition of vanadic acid. Conclusion Bilirubin photoisomers reacted as direct bilirubin in the vanadic acid oxidation method.
Evaluating the Ergonomic Benefit of a Wrist Brace on Wrist Posture, Muscle Activity, Rotational Stiffness, and Peak Shovel-Ground Impact Force During a Simulated Tree-Planting Task
Authors: Sheahan Peter J. , Cashaback Joshua G. A. , Fischer Steven L. 
Published: May 2017

Background Tree planters are at a high risk for wrist injury due to awkward postures and high wrist loads experienced during each planting cycle, specifically at shovel-ground impact. Wrist joint stiffness provides a measure that integrates postural and loading information. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate wrist joint stiffness requirements at the instant of shovel-ground impact during tree planting and determine if a wrist brace could alter muscular contributions to wrist joint stiffness. Method Planters simulated tree planting with and without wearing a brace on their planting arm. Surface electromyography (sEMG) from six forearm muscles and wrist kinematics were collected and used to calculate muscular contributions to joint rotational stiffness about the wrist. Results Wrist joint stiffness increased with brace use, an unanticipated and negative consequence of wearing a brace. As a potential benefit, planters achieved a more neutrally oriented wrist angle about the flexion/extension axis, although a less neutral wrist angle about the ulnar/radial axis was observed. Muscle activity did not change between conditions. Conclusion The joint stiffness analysis, combining kinematic and sEMG information in a biologically relevant manner, revealed clear limitations with the interface between the brace grip and shovel handle that jeopardized the prophylactic benefits of the current brace design. This limitation was not as evident when considering kinematics and sEMG data independently. Application A neuromechanical model (joint rotational stiffness) enhanced our ability to evaluate the brace design relative to kinematic and sEMG parameter-based metrics alone.
Quantification of Inflammatory Markers in Laryngotracheal Stenosis
Authors: Motz Kevin M. , Yin Linda X. , Samad Idris , Ding Dacheng , Murphy Michael K. , Duvvuri Madhavi , Hillel Alexander T. 
Published: May 2017

Objectives(1) Develop a novel method for serial assessment of gene and protein expression in laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS). (2) Assess cytokine expression and determine an immunophenotype in LTS.Study DesignA matched comparison of endolaryngeal brush biopsy samples from laryngotracheal scar and normal airway.SettingTertiary care hospital, 2015‐2016.MethodsBrush biopsy specimens of laryngotracheal scar and normal trachea were obtained from 17 patients with LTS at the time of operating room dilation and were used for protein and RNA extraction. Gene expression of the TH1 cytokine interferon γ (INF‐γ), TH2 cytokine interleukin 4 (IL‐4), transforming growth factor β, and collagen 1 (Coll1) was quantified with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Cytokine analysis was performed with flow cytometry with a cytometric bead array.ResultsLTS specimens demonstrated a 13.68‐fold increase in Coll1 gene expression versus normal (P <. 001, N = 17). Additionally, IL‐4 gene expression showed a 3.76‐fold increase (P <. 001, N = 17) in LTS scar. When stratified into iatrogenic LTS and idiopathic subglottic stenosis cohorts, INF‐γ gene expression was significantly increased in idiopathic subglottic stenosis (P =. 011). Soluble cytokine measurements were below the limit of detection for reliable quantification and thus could not be assessed.ConclusionsBrush biopsies from LTS samples can be successfully utilized for RNA extraction and demonstrate the expected increase in Coll1 gene expression associated with LTS. Preliminary gene expression suggests that abnormal collagen production may be mediated by the TH2 cytokine IL‐4 and that increased INF‐γ expression may represent a key difference between iatrogenic LTS and idiopathic subglottic stenosis. Further analysis of soluble cytokines is needed to confirm these findings.
Gout Can Increase the Risk of Receiving Rotator Cuff Tear Repair Surgery
Authors: Huang Shih-Wei , Wu Chin-Wen , Lin Li-Fong , Liou Tsan-Hon , Lin Hui-Wen 
Published: May 2017

Background: Gout commonly involves joint inflammation, and clinical epidemiological studies on involved tendons are scant. Rotator cuff tears are the most common cause of shoulder disability, and surgery is one of the choices often adopted to regain previous function. Purpose: To investigate the risk of receiving rotator cuff repair surgery among patients with gout and to analyze possible risk factors to design an effective prevention strategy. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The authors studied a 7-year longitudinal follow-up of patients from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 (LHID2005). This included a cohort of patients who received a diagnosis of gout during 2004-2008 (gout cohort) and a cohort matched by propensity scores (control cohort). A 2-stage approach that used the National Health Interview Survey 2005 was used to obtain missing confounding variables from the LHID2005. The crude hazard ratio (HR) and adjusted HR were estimated between the gout and control cohorts. Results: The gout and control cohorts comprised 32,723 patients with gout and 65,446 people matched at a ratio of 1:2. The incidence of rotator cuff repair was 31 and 18 per 100,000 person-years in the gout and control cohorts, respectively. The crude HR for rotator cuff repair in the gout cohort was 1.73 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23-2.44; P < .01) during the 7-year follow-up period. After adjustment for covariates by use of the 2-stage approach, the propensity score calibration-adjusted HR was 1.60 (95% CI, 1.12-2.29; P < .01) in the gout cohort. Further analysis revealed that the adjusted HR was 1.73 (95% CI, 1.20-2.50; P < .001) among patients with gout who did not take hypouricemic medication and 2.70 (95% CI, 1.31-5.59; P < .01) for patients with gout aged 50 years or younger. Conclusion: Patients with gout, particularly those aged 50 years or younger and without hypouricemic medication control, are at a relatively higher risk of receiving rotator cuff repair surgery. Strict control of uric acid levels with hypouricemic medication may effectively reduce the risk of rotator cuff repair.
Hermeneutic caring conversations in forensic psychiatric caring
Authors: Rydenlund Kenneth , Lindström Unni Å , Rehnsfeldt Arne 
Published: May 2017

Background: In forensic psychiatric care, a hermeneutic caring conversation between caregivers and patients can improve health outcomes. The hermeneutic approach entails starting from the whole and involves openness for what is shown as well as paying attention to the different parts. One way to deepen these conversations is to take advantage of both the caregivers’ and the patients’ life experiences. Research questions: The purpose of the study is to discuss and reflect on what hermeneutic caring conversations can mean for a deepened understanding of the movement in the health processes of patients in forensic care, patients who are in deep suffering. Research design: This study uses a hermeneutic methodology. Conversations with patients receiving care in forensic psychiatry are deepened using texts from philosophy, caring science, and poetry. The outcome emerges through a phase of creating patterns. Participants: Three patients in forensic care. Ethical considerations: This study builds on a doctoral thesis approved by The Ethical Review Board at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping, Sweden. Findings: Hermeneutic caring conversations provide a possibility for rich caring conversations with patients who are often not given a voice. These conversations are seen as ethical expressions of hermeneutic caring communion that affect patients’ health processes in a positive way. Discussion: It takes courage and responsibility to initiate and conduct these conversations as the patients volunteer to share their suffering. In hermeneutic caring conversations, the caregiver’s attitude is crucial for the transference of knowledge. Conclusion: This study provides a preliminary outline for hermeneutic caring conversations. A caring culture that provides time and space to prepare hermeneutic caring conversations is a prerequisite for the implementation of hermeneutic caring conversations.
Citation Impact Factors Among Faculty in Canadian Social Work Programs
Authors: Holosko Michael J. , Mishna Faye , Graham John R. , Allen Junior L. 
Published: May 2017

Purpose: We report impact data on faculty ( N = 454) working in 30 of Canada’s accredited social work programs during 2016. Method: Using the Publish or Perish website, faculty member’s h and g indices, and their most frequently cited articles published in the last decade were analyzed both individually and by school. Findings: (a) computed h scores were Ra 0.8–11.9, M = 4.4 and g scores were Ra 1.3–21.3, M = 7.7; (b) the top-ranked citation impact for programs were the University of Toronto, Dalhousie University, and the University of British Columbia; (c) larger programs had significantly higher citation impact for both h and g scores than smaller programs; (d) 17 (27%) of these authors had 10-year citation counts ranging from 176 to 666; and (e) their topics related to children/youth/adolescents (35%) and health care (35%). Discussion: Based on our work in this area, we offer some constructive recommendations to Canadian social work programs and faculty.
Optimal Starting Point for Fifth Metatarsal Zone II Fractures: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Watson Geoffrey I. , Karnovsky Sydney C. , Konin Gabrielle , Drakos Mark C. 
Published: May 2017

Background: Identifying the optimal starting point for intramedullary fixation of tibia and femur fractures is well described in the literature using a retrograde or anterograde technique. This technique has not been applied to the fifth metatarsal, where screw trajectory can cause iatrogenic malreduction. The generally accepted starting point for the fifth metatarsal is “high and inside” to accommodate the fifth metatarsal’s dorsal apex and medial curvature. We used a retrograde technique to identify the optimal starting position for intramedullary fixation of fifth metatarsal fractures. Methods: Five matched cadaveric lower extremity pairs were dissected to the fifth metatarsal neck. An osteotomy was made to access the intramedullary canal. A retrograde reamer was passed to the base of the fifth metatarsal to ascertain the ideal entry point. Distances from each major structure on the lateral aspect of the foot were measured. Computed tomography scans helped assess base edge measurements. Results: In 6 of 10 specimens, the retrograde reamer hit the cuboid with a cuboid invasion averaging 0.7 mm. The peroneus brevis and longus were closest to the starting position with an average distance of 5.1 mm and 5.7 mm, respectively. Distances from the entry point to the dorsal, plantar, medial, and lateral edges of the metatarsal base were 8.3 mm, 6.9 mm, 9.7 mm, and 9.7 mm, respectively. Conclusion: Optimal starting position was found to be essentially at the center of the base of the fifth metatarsal at the lateral margin of the cartilage. Osteoplasty of the cuboid or forefoot adduction may be required to gain access to this site. Clinical Relevance: This study evaluated the ideal starting position for screw placement of zone II base of the fifth metatarsal fractures, which should be considered when performing internal fixation for these fractures.
Improved cognitive outcomes in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis treated with daclizumab beta: Results from the DECIDE study
Authors: Benedict Ralph HB , Cohan Stanley , Lynch Sharon G , Riester Katherine , Wang Ping , Castro-Borrero Wanda , Elkins Jacob , Sabatella Guido 
Published: May 2017

Background: Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), with cognitive processing speed being the most frequently affected domain. Objective: Examine the effects of daclizumab beta versus intramuscular (IM) interferon (IFN) beta-1a on cognitive processing speed as assessed by Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT). Methods: In DECIDE, patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) (age: 18–55 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score 0–5.0) were randomized to daclizumab beta ( n = 919) or IM IFN beta-1a ( n = 922) for 96–144 weeks. SDMT was administered at baseline and at 24-week intervals. Results: At week 96, significantly greater mean improvement from baseline in SDMT was observed with daclizumab beta versus IM IFN beta-1a ( p = 0.0274). Significantly more patients treated with daclizumab beta showed clinically meaningful improvement in SDMT (increase from baseline of ⩾3 points ( p = 0.0153) or ⩾4 points ( p = 0.0366)), and significantly fewer patients showed clinically meaningful worsening (decrease from baseline of ⩾3 points ( p = 0.0103)). Odds representing risk of worsening versus stability or improvement on SDMT were significantly smaller for daclizumab beta ( p = 0.0088 (3-point threshold); p = 0.0267 (4-point threshold)). In patients completing 144 weeks of treatment, the effects of daclizumab beta were generally sustained. Conclusion: These results provide evidence for a benefit of daclizumab beta versus IM IFN beta-1a on cognitive processing speed in RRMS. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01064401 (Efficacy and Safety of BIIB019 (Daclizumab High Yield Process) Versus Interferon β 1a in Participants With Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (DECIDE)): https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01064401 .
The majority of natalizumab-treated MS patients have high natalizumab concentrations at time of re-dosing
Authors: van Kempen Zoé LE , Leurs Cyra E , Witte Birgit I , de Vries Annick , Wattjes Mike P , Rispens Theo , Killestein Joep 
Published: May 2017

Background: Natalizumab is efficacious in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. All patients receive the same treatment regimen of 300 mg every 4 weeks, despite differences in pharmacokinetics between individual patients. Objective: To give neurologists insight into natalizumab concentrations at time of re-dosing, we investigated longitudinal natalizumab concentrations in 80 patients in relation to disease activity, with possible influencing factors. Methods: In a prospective observational cohort study, natalizumab trough serum concentrations were measured in 80 patients. Data on demographics, duration of treatment, Expanded Disability Status Scale, clinical exacerbations, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and body weight were collected. Results: We measured high (≥10 µg/mL) natalizumab trough concentrations in 94% of patients. Intra-individual concentrations were stable. The spread in concentrations was substantial and did not correlate with disease activity. We found a negative association between natalizumab concentration and body weight (β = −0.30, p = 0.010). Interpretation: The majority of patients showed high natalizumab serum concentrations at time of re-dosing. Alternative treatment regimens could lead to more efficient use of natalizumab, but caution is warranted regarding the possibility of recurrence of disease activity. Prospective clinical trials are needed to establish the safety of extended dose intervals in natalizumab treatment.
Delayed massive epistaxis from traumatic cavernous carotid false aneurysms: A report of two unusual cases
Authors: Mankahla Ncedile , LeFeuvre David , Taylor Allan 
Published: May 2017

Introduction Blunt head trauma can injure the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA). This may result in a carotid cavernous fistula (CCF). Rarely, a traumatic aneurysm may bleed medially causing massive epistaxis. Case presentation We present two cases of traumatic intracavernous carotid pseudoaneurysms with delayed massive epistaxis. The patients were managed with endovascular treatment involving coil embolization with parent vessel sparing and detachable balloon occlusion with carotid sacrifice. Early clinical outcome was good in both patients. Wherever possible, the CARE1 guidelines were followed in the reporting. Conclusion These cases illustrate the delayed nature of traumatic aneurysms and the need for a high index of suspicion in the presence of skull base fractures. The use of endovascular detachable balloon occlusion and coil embolization treatment with parent vessel preservation is shown.
Development and Validation of a Skinfold Model for Estimation of Body Density for a Safe Weight Reduction in Young Iranian Wrestlers
Authors: Riyahi-Alam Sadjad , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Kabirizadeh Yaser , Mansournia Nasrin , Steyerberg Ewout , Kordi Ramin 
Published: May 2017

Background: Adverse effects of excessive body mass reduction among wrestlers dictate minimum weight determination through body composition. Although skinfold equations are essential to estimate body composition in the field setting, they are mostly derived from Western societies and may lack generalizability to other populations. Purpose: Previously published skinfold equations lacked external validity in predicting body density of Iranian wrestlers. We aimed to derive a new anthropometric model specific to young Iranian male wrestlers. Study design: Cross-sectional cohort study. Level of evidence: Level 3. Methods: One hundred twenty-six Iranian male wrestlers with at least 1 year of experience and a mean age of 19 ± 4.0 years underwent underwater weight analysis for body density estimation and anthropometric measurements. The previously published equations were validated, followed by new regression modeling, using multivariable fractional polynomials, with body density as the criterion predicted by common anthropometric variables. The final model was validated throughout the modeling procedure using 1000 bootstrap replications. Results: The mean body fat percentage (%BF) was 12.6% (95% CI, 11.9%-13.4%), lower than that of previous studies. Six previously published equations each had significant deviations from the line of identity (all P < 0.001). The new prediction equation combined subscapular, tricipital, and midaxillary skinfolds and body mass index cubed to predict body density. Conclusion: The development of ethnicity-specific equations, using statistically unbiased and comprehensive validation methods, is imperative for body composition estimation to determine the minimum weight for regulation of health in athletes. Clinical Relevance: Using equations without external validation can bias the prediction of minimum weight, leading to unsafe weight reduction by athletes. Compared with a previous study, much lower mean %BF was found using an ethnicity-specific equation (12.6% vs 15.9%). This difference observed in %BF prediction could affect safe fat reduction in athletes.