bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration of ultrasonic hardware for enhanced total focusing method imaging
Authors: Ingram M , Gachagan A , Nordon A , Mulholland A J , Hegarty M
Published: July 2020

Experimental variation from ultrasonic hardware is one source of uncertainty in measured ultrasonic data. This uncertainty leads to a reduction in the accuracy of images generated from these data. In this paper, a quick, easy-to-use and robust methodology is proposed to reduce this
uncertainty in images generated using the total focusing method (TFM). Using a 128-element linear phased array, multiple full matrix capture (FMC) datasets of a planar reflection are used to characterise the experimental variation associated with each element index in the aperture. Following
this, a methodology to decouple the time-domain error associated with transmission and reception at each element index is presented. These time-domain errors are then introduced into a simulated array model used to generate the two-way pressure profile from the array. The side-lobe-to-main-lobe
energy ratio (SMER) and beam offset are used to quantify the impact of these measured time-domain errors on the pressure profile. This analysis shows that the SMER is raised by more than 6 dB and the beam is offset by more than 1 mm from its programmed focal position. This calibration methodology
is then demonstrated using a steel non-destructive testing (NDT) sample with three side-drilled holes (SDHs). The time delay errors from transmission and reception are introduced into the time-of-flight (TOF) calculation for each ray path in the TFM. This results in an enhancement in the accuracy
of defect localisation in the TFM image.
Method Validation Approaches for Analysis of Constituents in ENDS
Authors: Reilly Samantha M. , Cheng Tianrong , DuMond Jenna
Published: July 2020

Objective: We assessed how many peer-reviewed publications reporting chemical quantities and/or yields from electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) have included adequate method validation characteristics in the publication for appropriate interpretation of data quality for
informing tobacco regulatory science. Methods: We searched 5 databases (Web of Knowledge, PubMed, SciFinder, Embase, EBSCOhost) for ENDS publications between January 2007 and September 2018. Of the 283 publications screened, 173 publications were relevant for analysis. We identified
the publications that report a certain degree of control in data quality, ie, the publications that report marginally validated methods (MVMs). MVMs refer to the methods that: (1) report 3 or more International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) method validation characteristics, (2) state
the method was validated, (3) cite their own previous publication(s) that report MVMs, or (4) use a method within the accreditation scope of an accredited laboratory. Results: Overall, 97 publications (56%) report MVMs in their studies. This percentage also reflects the publication
distribution for the majority of the 28 chemicals measured by MVMs. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for reporting sufficient validation characteristics following appropriate guidance to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the published analytical data for proper data
interpretations that may support policy.
Electrolyte changes in the neonates receiving phototherapy
Authors: Purohit Abhishek , Verma Suresh Kumar
Published: July 2020

Background: Neonatal jaundice is the most commonly observed clinical condition of early neonatal period. It remains a common cause of readmission and important cause of concern for the parents and clinicians. Therefore, appropriate management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is of paramount importance. Phototherapy plays a significant role in its management but this modality is not devoid of complications. Authors studied electrolyte changes in the neonates, who received phototherapy.Methods: This perspective hospital based observational study conducted over the period of one year on 90 eligible admitted neonates who received phototherapy as per AAP guideline. Serum bilirubin, sodium, potassium and calcium were determined before and after termination of phototherapy. The first samples were considered as controls and compared with the samples collected after termination of phototherapy.Results: The incidence of LBW babies in this study was 21.9%, while mean birth weight and gestational age was2.76±0.38 kg and 38.34±0.88 weeks respectively. Mean duration of phototherapy was 38.48±09.34 hours. The mean sodium, potassium and calcium level before therapy were 146.6±6.2 mg/dl, 4.7±0.47 mg/dl and 9.4±0.73 mg/dl respectively. Authors found statistically significant changes in the electrolyte’s levels (Na+ 141.3±6.1, K+ 4.2±0.51 and Ca+2 8.4±0.68 respectively), after phototherapy however none of any neonate shown any clinical signs of dyselectolytemia.Conclusions: Neonates undergoing phototherapy are at greater risk of dyselectrolytemia especially in preterm babies therefore close clinical and biochemical monitoring is required for the prompt management of any significant electrolyte imbalance.
Burden of malnutrition and anemia among children with congenital heart disease
Authors: Rabiya Nargis , E. Elizabeth K. , Masaraddi Sanjay K. , K. Rugmini
Published: July 2020

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect and in India, the prevalence is 2.5 to 5/1000 live births. Malnutrition and anemia are common co-morbidities, that determine the outcome in CHD. This study was undertaken to assess the extent of malnutrition and anemia among 1-12-year-old children with CHD.Methods: A total 80 children with CHD, admitted for intervention under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) scheme were enrolled.  Nutritional status was assessed using standardized anthropometric measurements. Anemia was estimated using hemoglobin, red cell indices, red cell distribution width and peripheral smear. IEC approval, informed consent and assent from participants were obtained prior to the study. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 19.Results: 2/3rd children were >5-years-old. Acyanotic CHD was more common (81.3%) and 35% had ventricular septal defect. Among cyanotic CHD (18.7%), 13.7% had tetralogy of fallot. In CCHD, there was only one child with normal weight and height. In ACHD, 71% were underweight, 49%, had stunting and 82% had wasting. Anemia was diagnosed in nearly 1/3rd, and iron deficiency was the most common. Even though polycythemia was noted in those with CCHD, increased RDW and reduced red cell indices unmasked iron deficiency.Conclusions: Majority were >5-years-old, due to late referral for intervention. The burden of malnutrition and iron deficiency anemia, that modify the outcome, was very high, Hence, early identification, prompt referral and correction of co-morbidities are of utmost importance, as majority are likely to get surgical/non-surgical interventions under government sponsored schemes like RBSK in India.
First branchial cleft fistula: a case report
Authors: Mehta Rupa , Mishra Ankit , Nagarkar Nitin M. , Singh Vandita
Published: July 2020

First branchial cleft anomalies (BCA) are a rare finding in head and neck with incidence nearly- incidence of nearly 1 million per year which are distributed below external auditory canal, above the hyoid bone, anterior to sternocleidomastoid and posterior to submandibular triangle. First branchial cleft cysts are frequently misdiagnosed as they are rare and pose unfamiliar clinical signs and symptoms. Here we are reporting a case of surgical management of 1st branchial cleft fistula in a 5 years old male child from AIIMS, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India as it’s a rare entity. Child presented with discharge from right upper part of neck. There was a swelling in right upper lateral part of neck with an opening also in floor of right external auditory canal (EAC). Contrast enhanced computed tomography of neck showed a 4.8 cm long obliquely oriented fistulous tract opening at junction of middle and upper one third of sternocleidomastoid with opening in right EAC. Surgical excision of the fistulous tract was done with preservation of facial nerve. Histopathology examination confirmed the presence of fistula. Common clinical presentation of BCAs is pre-auricular swelling (24%), parotid swelling (36%) or cervical region swelling (41%). In our case, it was a fistulous opening that presented as discharging tract in upper neck. Management include early diagnosis, control of infection and complete excision with facial nerve preservation Surgical approach should be based on the clinical examination, imaging and clinical course; and there is a need to safely identify and preserve facial nerve in almost all cases.
Tuberculous otitis media: rare cause of recurrent facial nerve palsy
Authors: Tiwari Vibhu , Singh Rohit , Anand V.
Published: July 2020

Tuberculous otitis media (TOM) is a rare form of tuberculosis, due to tubercular otitis media, thick caseous material and granulation tissue gets deposited in middle ear cleft causing bone erosion, sequestration, ossicular destruction, heading loss which can be conductive or mixed and rarely facial paralysis. In this case report we discuss tubercular otitis media as a cause of recurrent facial nerve paralysis. 54 year old male patient with no known previous comorbidities presented to ENT OPD on 12 October 19 with complaints of scanty, mucopurulent foul smelling occasionally blood stained continuous otorrhoea (R)×02 years, painless progressive and persistent hearing loss ×1 year and recurrent (R) sided facial nerve palsy, 03 episodes in last 2 years which were spontaneous and sudden in onset, showed gradual recovery with oral medication. Tubercular otitis media is not a very common diagnosis with which an otolaryngologist comes across. It generally presents with otorrhea and hearing loss which mimics more commoner ear disease. Typical findings of multiple tympanic membrane perforations are not necessarily seen. There can be involvement of facial nerve and presence of refractory otorrhoea with atypical features may be considered indicative of tubercular pathology. A clinician should have high index of suspicion whenever there are signs which outlies symptoms in form of severity. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge and high index of clinical suspicion required for diagnosis. Combination of appropriate diagnostic modality along with good clinical vigilance will aid in early diagnosis and start of early medication which reduces chances of any subsequent complications.

 
Opportunities and Challenges for Resilient Hospital Incident Management: Case Study of a Hospital's Response to Hurricane Harvey
Authors: Son Changwon , Larsen Ethan , Sasangohar Farzan , Peres S. Camille
Published: July 2020

Communities face unforeseen threats from natural and human‐made disasters. As disasters grow more intense and critical infrastructure increases in complexity, resilience has emerged as an essential attribute of incident management systems. Despite concerted efforts to examine government organizations and their associated policies, understanding resilience traits exhibited by hospitals and healthcare systems during disasters is limited. We employ two fundamental viewpoints of safety to assess what went wrong (Safety I) and right (Safety II) during Hurricane Harvey in a large regional hospital. Through qualitative analysis of semi‐structured interviews with hospital emergency management and operators, we examine both opportunities and challenges in six aspects of hospital incident management: organizational structure and functions; situational awareness; operating plans; human and physical resources; lessons learned from previous incidents; and leadership and high‐level decision making. The benefits of incorporating both the Safety I and Safety II frameworks in evaluating hospital incident response and the implications of this approach for disaster management policies are discussed.
Policy Challenges for Grandparents Caring for Grandchildren with Disabilities
Authors: Meyer Madonna Harrington , Abdul‐Malak Ynesse
Published: July 2020

Childhood disability rates in the US are increasing, but supports for families are not. As a result, US grandparents provide a great deal of care for grandchildren with disabilities. When they do, they face a myriad of social policy challenges. Here we explore three such challenges: (1) how access to employment benefits such as paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid parental leave, or affordable, high quality childcare shapes grandparent care work; (2) how access to poverty‐based, social assistance programs, such as SNAP, SSI, and Medicaid, shapes grandparent care work; and (3) how access to disability policies and programs, such as those pertaining to accessible classrooms, parks, or apartments, shapes grandparent care work. We augment this assessment of policies with quotes from fifty interviews we conducted with grandparents caring for grandchildren with disabilities. We found that grandparents were providing childcare, bathing, feeding, transportation, and therapy; helping with homework; accompanying grandchildren for medical care; paying for everything from groceries to surgeries; and assisting with technical medical care. Several were also advocating for their grandchildren with administrators at SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, public schools, park districts, and landlords. Caring for grandchildren with disabilities gives many grandparents a great deal of joy, satisfaction, and purpose. Although most are eager and happy to help, doing so may adversely impact their financial, social, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Those with sufficient resources may be more readily able to absorb the impact, but those who provide the most care with the fewest resources are more likely to deplete their savings, incur new debts, reduce or end employment, restrict social lives, and forego travel plans. They are also more likely to experience anxiety and emotional distress, have disabilities of their own, and neglect their physical wellbeing through a lack of exercise, improper diets, and delayed medical and dental care.
The Heavy Metals in the System "Soil as a Wild-growing Medicinal Plant" on the Example of Tanacetum Vulgare L
Authors: Buskunova G.G. , Khasanova R.F. , Semenova I.N. , Ilbulova G.R.
Published: July 2020

The features of the accumulation of heavy metals in medicinal plant raw materials Tanacetum vulgare L. in the conditions of the Trans-Urals region of the Republic of Bashkortostan are discussed. The variation-statistical indices of the content of heavy metals in soils and in plants are calculated. Soils and plants have high coefficients of heavy metals variation, with the exception of manganese in the soil, which is characterized by moderate variability. An increased level of heavy metals mobile forms, such as Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Pb, Cd, has been detected in all soil samples. All selected samples had an elevated level of mobile forms. According to the degree of contamination, the studied soils were classified as permissible. In tansy plants, the concentration of trace elements-biophiles exceeded the norm in Fe 1.7–6.24, in Cd 1.3–1.7 times, and the concentrations of Cu, Zn, Mn, Pb in the aboveground and underground parts of the species remained within the normal range. It is revealed that the root system of Tanacetum vulgare L. contains higher values of the studied elements than the aerial parts. According to the intensity of absorption, the elements are arranged in the following sequence: Zn → Cd → Cu → Fe → Mn → Pb. According to the coefficient of biological accumulation in tansy, ordinary zinc and iron belong to the elements of weak accumulation, copper, manganese, lead, cadmium –to the elements of weak capture.
Investigating the rate of different ovarian response in in vitro fertilization cycles based on estrogen receptor beta +1730 polymorphism: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Parsa Elham , Mehdi Hoseini Seyed , Mahdieh Namayandeh Seyedeh , Akhavansales Zhima , Hasan Sheikhha Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Background: The response to ovarian stimulation is different among women referring for assisted reproductive techniques. This difference could be due to different genotypes in genes related to reproduction such as estrogen receptor beta (ER
Semen analysis of subfertility caused by testicular carcinoma
Authors: Ghasemi Behrooz , Mosadegh Mehrjardi Alimohammad , Jones Carolyn , Ghasemi Nasrin
Published: July 2020

Background: Infertility is a common problem in testicular cancer. Affected men often decide to undergo sperm banking before chemo/radiotherapy. The cumulative effects of therapy can considerably reduce fertility.
Objective: Testicular cancers impair fertilizing ability, even before diagnosis. This study tries to verify individual traits and semen quality in patients with testicular cancer.
Materials and Methods: This observational study analyzed 190 semen of patients with testicular cancer (16 to 47 yr old) referred to the sub-fertility laboratory at the St. Mary hospital for semen banking prior to treatment carcinoma. Several aspects of their semen analyses were examined. The cases were divided into four different categories: seminoma, teratoma, mixed germ cell tumors and others.
Results: The results showed that 23 cases were azoospermic, and 13 of the patients who were not azoospermic, their sperm of “normal” morphology were too few to count. Among patients that could produce spermatozoa, 59.4% had a sperm concentration of < 20 × 106/ml. The mean of “motility excellent” and “sluggish” taken together in all the cases was 47.2%. More than 92% of the patients had an abnormal morphology. The morphology of sperm is the most sensitive semen parameter that is affected by testicular carcinoma.
Conclusion: Abnormal spermatogenesis is seen in most patients with testicular cancer before treatment with radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery. The causes of poor semen quality in cancer patients are not well-understood, but the patients with impaired spermatogenesis should have precise examination to find out the correct diagnosis of problem and preserve the fertility before any treatment.
Key words: Infertility, Testicular cancer, Semen analyses, Spermatogenesis.
Działania państwa na rzecz rozwoju przedsiębiorczości — ujęcie normatywne, funkcjonalne i strukturalne
Authors: Kokocińska Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Uzasadnieniem podjęcia problematyki aktywności państwa w sferze rozwoju przedsię-biorczości, zagadnienia analizowanego najczęściej w ujęciu funkcji administracji publicznej w go-spodarce, są intensywność i zakres wprowadzanych zmian. Celem opracowania jest wykazanie, że przyjęta polityka państwa na rzecz rozwoju wywołuje określone konsekwencje zarówno w sferze normatywnej, jak i funkcjonalnej, a przede wszystkim w strukturach administracji publicznej. Nowe rozwiązania organizacyjne i funkcjonalne w administracji publicznej wdrażane są jako efekt zabie-gów na rzecz usprawnienia działania i budowania administracji racjonalnej. Kształtowanie nowego modelu administracji bądź jego reorganizacja pod hasłem administracji odpowiedniej do społeczno--gospodarczych potrzeb wymaga jednak uwzględnienia podstawowych założeń ustrojowych.
Obowiązki przedsiębiorcy w zakresie lokalizacji inwestycji mieszkaniowej i inwestycji towarzyszącej
Authors: Brzezińska-Rawa Anna
Published: July 2020

Przedmiotem niniejszego artykułu jest problematyka powiązania i analizy wpływu re-gulacji prawnych z zakresu planowania przestrzennego, wynikających z tak zwanej specustawy mieszkaniowej, wraz z problematyką obowiązków przedsiębiorcy. Autorka analizuje wymogi praw-ne związane z lokalizacją inwestycji mieszkaniowej i inwestycji towarzyszącej. Są to wymogi in-frastrukturalne i odległościowe oraz wymogi zakazu lokalizacji na terenach prawnie chronionych. Poruszony jest również historyczny wątek tak zwanych developer obligations.
Spółdzielnia socjalna jako przedsiębiorca wykonujący działalność społecznie użyteczną
Authors: Kocowski Tadeusz
Published: July 2020

Niektórzy przedsiębiorcy oprócz komercyjnej działalności gospodarczej podejmują dzia-łalność niekomercyjną. Wykonywana jest ona na rzecz ich członków, a także załóg. Można ją określić mianem działalności interesu społecznego (publicznego). Państwo wspiera tę działalność. Jednostką organizacyjną, która oprócz prowadzenia działalności gospodarczej ma na celu ograniczenie margina-lizacji i przeciwdziałanie wykluczeniu zawodowemu i społecznemu, jest spółdzielnia socjalna.
Dostęp podmiotów świadczących usługi prawnicze do służby publicznej w sądach administracyjnych
Authors: Żurawik Artur
Published: July 2020

Wykonywanie zawodów prawniczych to wielki przywilej — wiążą się z nim jednak nie tylko prawa, lecz także specyficzne obowiązki. Wielu prawników świadczy swoje usługi w ra-mach prowadzonej działalności gospodarczej. Część z nich odnajduje się najlepiej w tak zwanych wolnych zawodach, inni natomiast widzą swoją przyszłość w służbie publicznej w sądach po-wszechnych bądź administracyjnych. W praktyce pojawia się jednak problem nieścisłości przepisów regulujących procedurę obsa-dy wolnych stanowisk sędziowskich, a to z kolei rodzi wątpliwości co do przyjętej w praktyce ich wykładni. Tym samym niepotrzebnie ogranicza się dostęp do służby publicznej wobec adwokatów, radców prawnych czy notariuszy wykonujących swą działalność gospodarczą w ramach kancela-rii prawniczych. Wynika to z konieczności odpowiedniego stosowania przepisów ustrojowych do-tyczących sądownictwa powszechnego w ramach procedur dotyczących obsady takich stanowisk w sądach administracyjnych. Innymi słowy chodzi tu o problem, czy do obsady stanowisk sędziow-skich w sądach administracyjnych mają zastosowanie ograniczenia odnoszące się do zakazu ponow-nego zgłaszania kandydatur przed zakończeniem poprzednio rozpoczętych postępowań w sprawie powołania do pełnienia urzędu. Jest to w istocie zagadnienie dopuszczalnej ingerencji w konstytu-cyjne prawo dostępu do służby publicznej.
Ogólnopolski Zjazd Katedr i Zakładów Publicznego Prawa Gospodarczego „Państwo a przedsiębiorca — aktualne wyzwania” (Wrocław, 23–24 września 2019 roku)
Authors: Borkowski Andrzej , Małecki Witold
Published: July 2020

Sprawozdanie
Prawo przedsiębiorców — nowa jakość i stare problemy
Authors: Etel Maciej
Published: July 2020

Ustawa z dnia 6 marca 2018 roku Prawo przedsiębiorców, która weszła w życie 30 kwiet-nia 2018 roku, kontynuuje ugruntowaną w prawie polskim tradycję regulowania zasad podejmowa-nia, wykonywania i zakończenia działalności gospodarczej ustawą o konstytucyjnym umocowaniu, nadrzędnym charakterze, zadaniach i treści. Niniejsze opracowanie ukazuje potrzebę reform, istotę, konstrukcję i zakres regulacji, a także nowe instytucje prawne kształtujące gwarancje wolności go-spodarczej i kreujące wzorzec pożądanej relacji organów władzy publicznej z przedsiębiorcą. Na tej podstawie formułuje ocenę reformy oraz postulaty de lege lata i de lege ferenda.
„Prawo do popełnienia błędu” w świetle nowelizacji Prawa przedsiębiorców
Authors: Hołda-Wydrzyńska Anna
Published: July 2020

Bez wątpienia problemy prawne często dotykają polskich przedsiębiorców. Naruszenie przepisów prawnych przez przedsiębiorców rozpoczynających działalność gospodarczą wydaje się zjawiskiem dość powszechnym. Chcąc ułatwić prowadzenie działalności gospodarczej, wprowa-dzono do ustawy z dnia 6 marca 2018 roku Prawo przedsiębiorców nową instytucję prawną zwaną „prawem do popełnienia błędu”. W świetle regulacji art. 21a Prawa przedsiębiorców, która weszła w życie 1 stycznia 2020 roku, z prawa tego mogą korzystać wyłącznie przedsiębiorcy będący oso-bami fizycznymi, którzy działają na podstawie wpisu do Centralnej Ewidencji i Informacji o Dzia-łalności Gospodarczej i którzy dopiero rozpoczynają działalność gospodarczą po raz pierwszy lub którzy wznowili działalność gospodarczą po upływie 3 lat od jej zawieszenia lub zakończenia. Przedmiotem artykułu są rozważania nad istotą „prawa do popełnienia błędu”, które stanowi formę tak zwanego samooczyszczenia początkującego przedsiębiorcy.
Seismic Response of Long-Span Domes Supported by Multi-Storey Substructures
Authors: Nair Deepshikha , Terazawa Yuki , Sitler Ben , Takeuchi Toru
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates the seismic response characteristics of long-span domes. The natural periods of the prominent modes are longer than medium-span domes, which leads to a greater contribution from the higher modes to the response of the long-span dome. The acceleration distributions,
particularly the vertical acceleration distributions are sensitive to the dominant mode shapes of these higher modes. This leads to inaccuracies when applying the previously proposed response evaluation methods. The vibration modes of multi-storey supporting substructures also affect the excited
vibration modes of the roof. In this paper, the dynamic characteristics and seismic response of 150m-span domes supported by multi-storey substructures are studied. The effects of the post- yield stiffness of multi-storey substructures are also analysed by considering two structural systems,
buckling- restrained braced frames (BRBF) and damped spine frames. A simple design procedure to evaluate the equivalent static loads using amplification factors and incorporating the effects of higher modes is proposed based on response spectrum analysis and equivalent linearisation procedures.
The accuracy of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing the responses with those obtained from non-linear response history analysis.
Recycleshell: Wood-only Shell Structures Made From Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Production Waste
Authors: Robeller Christopher , Von   Haaren Niklas
Published: July 2020

The article describes a new construction system for shell structures made from door- and window cut-offs resulting from cross laminated timber (CLT) production lines. For the first time, form-fitting fasteners made of beech laminated veneer lumber are used in a shell made of engineered
wood plates, enabling a particularly simple, fast and precise construction. The efficient planning and production of a multitude of differently shaped elements is made possible by a CAD plug-in developed by the authors. The article presents the general application possibilities and limitations
of the system, as well as the case study of a shell demonstrator with a span of 12 meters, built from 229 hexagonal plates. A detailed structural analysis is presented for the demonstrator, including an experimental load test to confirm the FEM results.
Fortaleciendo el vocabulario de la lengua extranjera inglés en infantes de tercer grado de primaria usando flashcards digitales
Authors: Garcia-Medina Maria Angelica , Severiche-Urda Luisa Margarita , Garay-Rodríguez Jennifer Eugenia , Méndez-Vergara Julio Luis
Published: July 2020

Este proyecto tuvo como objetivo la implementación del uso de flashcards en formato digital para para la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de un segundo idioma y a través de este artículo se reconstruye y describe esta experiencia. En primera instancia se identificó el nivel de dominio que presentaban los estudiantes de tercer grado en el idioma inglés. Posteriormente se diseñaron estrategias que involucraron las flashcards en el desarrollo de cada una de las temáticas con el fin de fortalecer el vocabulario. El paradigma de investigación fue cuantitativo de corte descriptivo y como resultados se obtuvo el diseño de una estrategia pedagógica basada en el uso de las flashcards digitales. De igual manera, se usó la herramienta PROPROFS, lo que permitió un aprendizaje activo en los estudiantes, promoviendo el desarrollo de la atención, la memoria y mayor concentración e incentivó las habilidades de retención y percepción a través de la participación activa en el aula de clases. Como conclusión se tiene que la estrategia empleada a través del uso de flashcards digitales permite a los docentes una experiencia de enseñanza de la lengua extranjera de forma amena, puesto que en contextos rurales aprender un segundo idioma se vuelve una tarea ardua. Así mismo, las flashcards  pueden ser utilizadas en compañía de los maestros, padres de familia y los mismos estudiantes y ayudan de manera significativa en el aprendizaje de un segundo idioma ya que fortalecen el vocabulario de los estudiantes.
Foam Propagation at Low Superficial Velocity: Implications for Long-Distance Foam Propagation
Authors: Yu Guanqun , Vincent-Bonnieu Sebastien , Rossen William R.
Published: July 2020

Since the 1980s, experimental and field studies have found an anomalously slow propagation of foam (Friedmann et al. 1991, 1994; Patzek 1996), a phenomenon that cannot be fully explained by surfactant adsorption. Friedmann et al. (1994) conducted foam-propagation experiments in a cone-shaped sandpack and concluded that foam, once formed in the narrow inlet, was unable to propagate at all at lower superficial velocities near the wider outlet. They concluded that long-distance foam propagation in radial flow from an injection well is in doubt.

Ashoori et al. (2012) provide a theoretical explanation for a slower and/or nonpropagation of foam front at decreasing superficial velocity. By linking foam propagation to the minimum superficial velocity utmin (or minimum pressure gradient ∇Pmin) required for foam generation in homogeneous porous media (Rossen and Gauglitz 1990; Gauglitz et al. 2002), the study reveals that the minimum velocity for maintaining the propagation of foam is far less than that for creating foam but greater than the minimum velocity for maintaining foam in place. Lee et al. (2016) and Izadi and Kam (2019) find a minimum velocity for foam propagation from analysis of a similar population-balance model but associate it with the minimum velocity for foam stability.

In this study, we extend the experimental approach of Friedmann et al. (1991) in the context of the theory of Ashoori et al. (2012). We observe dynamic propagation of foam in a cylindrical core with stepwise increasing diameter such that the superficial velocity decreases from inlet to outlet (in a ratio of 16:1). Previously (Yu et al. 2019), we mapped the conditions for foam generation (at large superficial velocities) in a Bentheimer sandstone core, in relation to surfactant concentration and injected gas fraction (foam quality). In this study, we enrich the map with the conditions for downstream propagation of foam (at significantly smaller superficial velocities). We also interpret our results for both foam generation and propagation in terms of local pressure gradient (following the implications of Ashoori et al. 2012), which plays a dominant role in the mobilization and creation of foam.

Our results suggest that the minimum superficial velocities for both foam generation and propagation increase with increasing foam quality and decreasing surfactant concentration, in agreement with theory (Rossen and Gauglitz 1990). In addition, the minimum velocity for propagation of foam is much less than that for foam generation, as has been predicted by Ashoori et al. (2012). Implications of our laboratory results for field application of foam are briefly discussed.
enChIP systems with MSCV-based retroviral plasmids expressing 3xFLAG-Sp-dCas9
Authors: Yuno Miyuki , Fujita Toshitsugu , Fujii Hodaka
Published: July 2020

Objective: Engineered DNA-binding molecule–mediated chromatin immunoprecipitation (enChIP) is a technology for purifying specific genomic regions to facilitate identification of their associated molecules, including proteins, RNAs, and other genomic regions. In enChIP, the target genomic region is tagged with engineered DNA-binding molecules, e.g., a variant of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system consisting of a guide RNA (gRNA) and a catalytically inactive form of Cas9 (dCas9). In this study, to increase the flexibility of enChIP and expand the range of target cells, we generated murine stem cell virus (MSCV)-based retroviral plasmids for expressing dCas9. Results: We constructed MSCV-based retroviral plasmids expressing Streptococcus pyogenes dCas9 fused to a 3xFLAG-tag (3xFLAG-Sp-dCas9) and various drug resistance genes. We showed that it is feasible to purify target genomic regions with high yields using these plasmids. These systems might give enChIP users greater flexibility in choosing optimal systems for drug selection of transduced cells. In addition, they could be used to analyze different types of target cells.
Increasing prevalence of anticholinergic medication use in older people in England over 20 years: Cognitive Function and Ageing Study I and II
Authors: Grossi Carlota , Richardson Kathryn , Savva George , Fox Chris , Arthur Antony , Loke Yoon , Steel Nicholas , Brayne Carol , Matthews Fiona , Robinson Lousie , Myint Phyo , Maidment Ian
Published: July 2020

Background: Anticholinergic medication use is linked with increased cognitive decline, dementia, falls and mortality, and their use should be limited in older people. Here we estimate the prevalence of anticholinergic use in England’s older population in 1991 and 2011, and describe changes in use by participant’s age, sex, cognition and disability.Methods: We compared data from participants aged 65+ years from the Cognitive Function and Ageing Studies (CFAS I and II), collected during 1990-1993 (N=7,635) and 2008-2011 (N=7,762). We estimated the prevalence of potent anticholinergic use (Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden [ACB] score=3) and average anticholinergic burden (sum of ACB scores), using inverse probability weights standardised to the 2011 UK population. These were stratified by age, sex, Mini-Mental State Examination score, and activities of daily living (ADL) or instrumental ADL (IADL) disability. Results: Prevalence of potent anticholinergic use increased from 5.7% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 5.2-6.3%) of the older population in 1990-93 to 9.9% (9.3-10.7%) in 2008-11, adjusted odds ratio of 1.90 (95%CI 1.67 – 2.16). People with clinically significant cognitive impairment (MMSE [Mini Mental State Examination] 21 or less) were the heaviest users of potent anticholinergic in CFAS II (16.5% [95%CI 12.0-22.3%]). Large increases in the prevalence of the use medication with ‘any’ anticholinergic activity were seen in older people with clinically significant cognitive impairment (53.3% in CFAS I to 71.5% in CFAS II). Conclusions: Use of potent anticholinergic medications nearly doubled in England’s older population over 20 years with some of the greatest increases amongst those particularly vulnerable to anticholinergic side-effects.
Proteasome Inhibitors Reduce Thrombospondin-1 Release in Human Dysferlin-Deficient Myotubes
Authors: Fernández-Simón Esther , Lleixà Cinta , Suarez-Calvet Xavier , Diaz-Manera Jordi , Illa Isabel , Gallardo Eduard , de Luna Noemí
Published: July 2020

Background: Dysferlinopathies are a group of muscle disorders causing muscle weakness and absence or low levels of dysferlin, a type-II transmembrane protein and the causative gene of these dystrophies. Dysferlin is implicated in vesicle fusion, trafficking, and membrane repair. Muscle biopsy from patients with dysferlinopathy is characterized by the presence of inflammatory infiltrates. Studies in the muscle of human and mouse models of dysferlinopathy suggest dysferlin-deficient muscle plays a role in this inflammation by releasing thrombospondin-1. It has also been reported that vitamin D3 treatment enhances dysferlin expression. The ubiquitin-proteasome system recognizes and removes proteins that fail to fold or assemble properly and previous studies suggest that its inhibition could have a therapeutic effect in muscle dystrophies. Here we assessed whether inhibition of the ubiquitin proteasome system prevented degradation of dysferlin in immortalized myoblasts from a patient with two missense mutations in exon 44. Methods: To assess proteasome inhibition we treated dysferlin deficient myotubes with oprozomib, ixazomib, and EB1089, a vitamin D3 analogue. Western blot was performed to analyze the effect of these treatments on the recovery of dysferlin and myogenin expression. TSP-1 was quantified using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to analyze the effect of these drugs on its release. A membrane repair assay was designed to assess the ability of treated myotubes to recover after membrane injury. We also calculated the fusion index in response to the different treatments. Data were analysed using a one-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey post hoc test and analysis of variance. A p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Treatment with proteasome inhibitors and EB1089 resulted in a trend towards an increase in dysferlin and myogenin expression. Furthermore, EB1089 and proteasome inhibitors reduced the release of TSP-1 in myotubes. However, no effect was observed on muscle membrane repair after injury. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the ubiquitin-proteasome system might not be the main mechanism of mutant dysferlin degradation. However, its inhibition could help to improve muscle inflammation by reducing TSP-1 release.
The Detrimental Impacts of Negative Age Stereotype on Episodic Memory of Older Adults: Does Social Participation Moderate the Effects?
Authors: Chan Stephen Cheong Yu , Au Alma May Lan , Lai Simon Man Kin
Published: July 2020

Background: Memory performance among older adults can be influenced by negative age stereotypes. However, it is not clear if this effect influence episodic memory in an Asian sample. Furthermore, social participation has emerged as a potential protective factor for memory function as older adults could maintain or enrich cognitive functions when they are exposed to cognitively demanding environment. The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of negative age stereotype primes on episodic memory and the moderating role of social participation on the priming effect.Methods: A total of 105 community-dwelling older adults residing in Hong Kong were randomly allocated to two experimental conditions. Participants were primed either with negative age stereotype words (n = 53) or neutral words (n = 52) by an implicit priming task. Episodic memory performance including total learning, two delayed recalls and a recognition task was investigated after the priming task. Analysis of Co-variance (ANCOVA) was used to test group differences in priming task and memory performance while a series of moderation analyses was performed to examine if social participation could moderate the priming effect.Results: Results indicated that experimental group performed significantly worse than the control group among all measures in the memory performances. Follow-up analyses showed that socially active individuals might be less prone to the effects of negative age stereotypes in the recognition task.Conclusions: Using a simple scale to measure social participation, we found that older adults who are more socially active might be more immune to the effects of negative age stereotype primes on episodic memory. These results provide initial support for social participation might act as an effective strategy against negative age stereotypes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04202120 (first posted December 17, 2019), (Retrospectively registered)
Correlation of Macular Sensitivity Measures and Visual Acuity to Vision-related Quality of Life in Patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Forshaw Thomas Richard Johansen , Parpounas Alexandra Kalia , Sørensen Torben Lykke
Published: July 2020

Background: Visual acuity is commonly used as a functional outcome measure in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), despite having a weak correlation with self-perceived visual quality of life. Microperimetry is a useful method of detecting loss of macular function. We wanted to investigate the relationship between these two objective visual outcome measures and subjective vision-related quality of life, finding out which objective measure is more patient-relevant. Methods: Fifty-six consecutive patients with AMD were recruited to the study. Participants were required to complete the Visual Function Questionnaire 39, the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study visual acuity examination and a microperimetry assessment using the Micro Perimeter 3. One patient withdrew consent and seven patients dropped out due to cooperation difficulties under microperimetry. Forty-eight patients with AMD were included in the study: thirty-three patients with late AMD (exudative AMD and/or geographic atrophy) and fifteen patients with early (non-exudative) AMD. The right eye was included as standard, as was the eye with the best-corrected visual acuity.Results: There was a higher correlation between vision-related quality of life and macular sensitivity (rho=0.371; p=0.034) than between vision-related quality of life and visual acuity (rho=0.334; p=0.058) in patients with late AMD. These correlations were not statistically significant in patients with early AMD. Composite score (rho=0.405; p=0.019) and near-distance activities score (rho=0.469; p=0.006) correlated highest with the nasal inner macular sub-region in patients with late AMD. Correlations between composite score and macular sub-regions in patients with early AMD were not significant, but near-distance activities score correlated highest with the nasal outer macular sub-region in these patients (rho=0.735; p=0.002). Conclusions: Macular sensitivity as measured using microperimetry correlates significantly better with vision-related quality of life than visual acuity, showing it to be a more patient-relevant outcome measure in patients with late AMD. Furthermore, the nasal sub-regions of the macula appear to be preferred retinal loci in patients with AMD.(330 words)
Cardiovascular risk screening of patients with serious mental illness or use of antipsychotics in family practice.
Authors: Jakobs Kirsti Marieke , Posthuma Anne , de Grauw Wim JC , Schalk Bianca WM , Akkermans Reinier P , Lucassen Peter , Schermer Tjard , Assendelft Willem JJ , Biermans Marion JC
Published: July 2020

Background: Patients with serious mental illness (SMI) and patients on antipsychotics (AP) have an elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases. In the Netherlands, the mental healthcare for these patients is increasingly taken care of by family practitioners (FP) as a result of a shift from secondary to primary care. Therefore, it is essential to increase our knowledge regarding the characteristics of this patient group and the (somatic) care provided by their FPs. The aim was to examine the rate of cardiovascular risk screening in patients with SMI or the use of AP in family practice.Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 151.238 patients listed in 24 family practices in the Netherlands.From electronic medical records we extracted data concerning diagnoses, measurement values of CVR factors, medication and frequency of visits over a 2 year period. Primary outcome was the rate of patients who were screened for CVR factors. We compared three groups: patients with SMI/AP without diabetes or CVD (SMI/AP-only), patients with SMI/AP and diabetes mellitus (SMI/AP+DM), patients with SMI/AP and a history of cardiovascular disease (SMI/AP+CVD). We explored factors associated with adequate screening using multilevel logistic regression.Results: We identified 1705 patients with SMI/AP, 834 with a SMI diagnosis, 1150 using AP. The screening rate for CVR in the SMI/AP-only group (n=1383) was adequate in 8.5%. Screening was higher in the SMI/AP-+DM (n=206, 68.4% adequate, OR 24.6 (95%CI, 17.3-35.1) and SMI/AP+CVD (n=116, 26.7% adequate, OR 4.2 (95%CI, 2.7-6.6). A high frequency of visits, age, the use of AP and a diagnosis of COPD were associated with a higher screening rate. In addition we also examined differences between patients with SMI and patients using AP without SMI.Conclusion: CVR screening in patients with SMI/AP is performed poorly in Dutch family practices. Acceptable screening rates were found only among SMI/AP patients with diabetes mellitus as comorbidity. The finding of a large group of AP users without a SMI diagnosis may indicate that FPs often prescribe AP off-label, lack information about the diagnosis, or use the wrong code.
A patients’ view of OA: the Global Osteoarthritis Patient Perception Survey (GOAPPS)
Authors: Vitaloni Marianna , Bemden Angie Botto-van , Sciortino Rosa , Carné Xavier , Quintero Maritza , Santos-Moreno Pedro , Espinosa Rolando , Rillo Oscar , Monfort Jordi , de Abajo Francisco , Oswald Elisabeth , Matucci Marco , du Souich Patrick , Möller Ingrid , Baures Monserrat Romera , Vinci Arlene , Scotton Deborah , Bibas Marco , Eakin Guy , Verges Josep
Published: July 2020

Background: Globally, osteoarthritis (OA) is the third condition associated with disability. There is still poor treatment in OA but science holds the key to finding better treatments and a cure. It is essential to learn what’s important to patients from them to implement the most effective OA management. The OA Patients Task Force, conducted the Global OA Patient Perception Survey (GOAPPS)-the first global survey to compare the quality of life (QoL) & patient perceptions of care across countries. The goal was to collect data on OA patients' perception of OA to understand patients’ needs and expectations to improve OA management.Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study by online survey data collection from six countries, translated into three languages. The survey was comprised of 3 sections: patient demographics and clinical symptomology characteristics; relationship with physicians: perception of attention, treatment, and information provided; and OA impact on daily activity and QoL. The results of the survey were evaluated using the Limited Data Set. The survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics to characterize the patients' answers using the IBM SPSS® software.Results. A total of 1512 surveys were completed in 6 countries. 84.2% of respondents reported pain/tenderness and 91.1% experienced limitations to physical activities. 42.3% of patients were not satisfied with their current OA treatment. 86% had comorbidities, especially hypertension, and obesity. 51.3% and 78% would like access to additional drug or additional non-drug/non-surgical treatments respectively. 48.2% of patients perceived their QoL to be affected by OA Conclusions: OA has a significant impact on patients’ daily activities and their desire to play an active role in managing this disease. Patients are seeking additional treatments, especially no pharmacological/no surgical treatments stressing the need for investing in clinical research, implementing OA preventive measures, and managing interventions to improve the healthcare value chain in OA.