bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arsenic nano complex induced degradation of YAP sensitized ESCC cancer cells to radiation and chemotherapy
Authors: Zhou Wei , Liu Meiyue , Li Xia , Zhang Peng , Li Jiong , Zhao Yue , Sun Guogui , Mao Weimin
Published: December 2020

Background

Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by arsenic treatment in solid tumors showed to be effective to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapies. Arsenic nano compounds are known to increase the ROS production in solid tumors.

Methods

In this study we developed arsenic–ferrosoferric oxide conjugated Nano Complex (As2S2–Fe3O4, AFCNC) to further promote the ROS induction ability of arsenic reagent in solid tumors. We screen for the molecular pathways that are affect by arsenic treatment in ESCC cancer cells. And explored the underlying molecular mechanism for the arsenic mediated degradations of the key transcription factor we identified in the gene microarray screen. Mouse xenograft model were used to further verify the synthetic effects of AFCNC with chemo and radiation therapies, and the molecular target of arsenic treatment is verified with IHC analysis.

Results

With gene expression microarray analysis we found Hippo signaling pathway is specifically affected by arsenic treatment, and induced ubiquitination mediated degradation of YAP in KYSE-450 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells. Mechanistically we proved PML physically interacted with YAP, and arsenic induced degradation PML mediated the degradation of YAP in ESCC cells. As a cancer stem cell related transcription factor, YAP 5SA over expressions in cancer cells are correlated with resistance to chemo and radiation therapies. We found AFCNC treatment inhibited the increased invasion and migration ability of YAP 5SA overexpressing KYSE-450 cells. AFCNC treatment also effectively reversed protective effects of YAP 5SA overexpression against cisplatin induced apoptosis in KYSE-450 cells. Lastly, with ESCC mouse xenograft model we found AFCNC combined with cisplatin treatment or radiation therapy significantly reduced the tumor volumes in vivo in the xenograft ESCC tumors.

Conclusions

Together, these findings suggested besides ROS, YAP is a potential target for arsenic based therapy in ESCC, which should play an important role in the synthetic effects of arsenic nano complex with chemo and radiation therapy.
Mitochondrial defects in the respiratory complex I contribute to impaired translational initiation via ROS and energy homeostasis in SMA motor neurons
Authors: Thelen Maximilian Paul , Wirth Brunhilde , Kye Min Jeong
Published: December 2020

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disease characterized by loss of lower motor neurons, which leads to proximal muscle weakness and atrophy. SMA is caused by reduced survival motor neuron (SMN) protein levels due to biallelic deletions or mutations in the SMN1 gene. When SMN levels fall under a certain threshold, a plethora of cellular pathways are disturbed, including RNA processing, protein synthesis, metabolic defects, and mitochondrial function. Dysfunctional mitochondria can harm cells by decreased ATP production and increased oxidative stress due to elevated cellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Since neurons mainly produce energy via mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, restoring metabolic/oxidative homeostasis might rescue SMA pathology. Here, we report, based on proteome analysis, that SMA motor neurons show disturbed energy homeostasis due to dysfunction of mitochondrial complex I. This results in a lower basal ATP concentration and higher ROS production that causes an increase of protein carbonylation and impaired protein synthesis in SMA motor neurons. Counteracting these cellular impairments with pyruvate reduces elevated ROS levels, increases ATP and SMN protein levels in SMA motor neurons. Furthermore, we found that pyruvate-mediated SMN protein synthesis is mTOR-dependent. Most importantly, we showed that ROS regulates protein synthesis at the translational initiation step, which is impaired in SMA. As many neuropathies share pathological phenotypes such as dysfunctional mitochondria, excessive ROS, and impaired protein synthesis, our findings suggest new molecular interactions among these pathways. Additionally, counteracting these impairments by reducing ROS and increasing ATP might be beneficial for motor neuron survival in SMA patients.
Recent advances in nanomaterial-modified electrical platforms for the detection of dopamine in living cells
Authors: Cho Yeon-Woo , Park Joon-Ha , Lee Kwang-Ho , Lee Taek , Luo Zhengtang , Kim Tae-Hyung
Published: December 2020

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter that plays essential roles in the central nervous system, including motor control, motivation, arousal, and reward. Thus, abnormal levels of dopamine directly cause several neurological diseases, including depressive disorders, addiction, and Parkinson’s disease (PD). To develop a new technology to treat such diseases and disorders, especially PD, which is currently incurable, dopamine release from living cells intended for transplantation or drug screening must be precisely monitored and assessed. Owing to the advantages of miniaturisation and rapid detection, numerous electrical techniques have been reported, mostly in combination with various nanomaterials possessing specific nanoscale geometries. This review highlights recent advances in electrical biosensors for dopamine detection, with a particular focus on the use of various nanomaterials (e.g., carbon-based materials, hybrid gold nanostructures, metal oxides, and conductive polymers) on electrode surfaces to improve both sensor performance and biocompatibility. We conclude that this review will accelerate the development of electrical biosensors intended for the precise detection of metabolite release from living cells, which will ultimately lead to advances in therapeutic materials and techniques to cure various neurodegenerative disorders.
Management protocol for emergency aneurysm craniotomy clipping in non-major COVID-19 epidemic areas in Beijing, China
Authors: Chen Yu , Chen Xiaolin , Ma Li , Deng Xiaofeng , Li Zelin , Ye Xun , Wang Hao , Kang Shuai , Zhang Yan , Wang Rong , Zhang Dong , Cao Yong , Zhao Yuanli , Wang Shuo , Zhao Jizong
Published: December 2020

Background

An epidemic of COVID-19 broke out in Wuhan, China, since December 2019. The ordinary medical services were hindered. However, the emergency cases, including aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), still required timely intervention. Thus, it provoked challenges to the routine management protocol. In this study, we summarized our experience in the emergency management of aSAH (Beijing Tiantan Protocol, BTP) in Beijing, China.

Methods

Demographic, clinical, and imaging data of consecutive emergency aSAH patients who underwent craniotomy clipping during the COVID-19 epidemic season were reviewed and compared with the retrospective period last year. Subgroup analysis was further performed to assess the outcomes of different screening results and several detailed protocols. Neurological outcomes were evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results

A total of 127 aSAH were referred to our emergency department, and 42 (33.1%) underwent craniotomy clipping between January 20, 2020, and March 25, 2020. The incidence of preoperative hospitalized adverse events and the perioperative outcomes were similar (− 0.1, 95% CI − 1.0 to 0.8, P = 0.779) to the retrospective period last year (January 2019–March 2019). After the propensity score matching (PSM), there were still no statistical differences in prognostic parameters between the two groups. Eight (19.0%) of the 42 individuals were initially screened as preliminary undetermined COVID-19 cases, in which 2 of them underwent craniotomy clipping in the negative pressure operating room (OR). The prognosis of patients with varied COVID-19 screening results was similar (F(2, 39) = 0.393, P = 0.678). Since February 28, 12 cases (28.6%) received COVID-19 nucleic acid testing (NAT) upon admission, and all showed negative. The false-negative rate was 0.0%. The preoperative hospitalized adverse events and postoperative prognosis were still similar between patients with and without COVID-19 NAT (− 0.3, 95% CI − 1.4 to 0.9, P = 0.653).

Conclusions

Our emergency surgery management protocol (BTP) is reliable for scheduling emergency aneurysm craniotomy clipping in non-major epidemic areas.
11C-UCB-J synaptic PET and multimodal imaging in dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Nicastro Nicolas , Holland Negin , Savulich George , Carter Stephen F. , Mak Elijah , Hong Young T. , Milicevic Sephton Selena , Fryer Tim D. , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , Rowe James B. , O’Brien John T.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common cause of dementia, but atrophy is mild compared to Alzheimer’s disease. We propose that DLB is associated instead with severe synaptic loss, and we test this hypothesis in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of11C-UCB-J, a ligand for presynaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), a vesicle membrane protein ubiquitously expressed in synapses.

Methods

We performed11C-UCB-J PET in two DLB patients (an amyloid-negative male and an amyloid-positive female in their 70s) and 10 similarly aged healthy controls. The DLB subjects also underwent PET imaging of amyloid (11C-PiB) and tau (18F-AV-1451).11C-UCB-J binding was quantified using non-displaceable binding potential (BPND) determined from dynamic imaging. Changes in11C-UCB-J binding were correlated with MRI regional brain volume,11C-PiB uptake and18F-AV-1451 binding.

Results

Compared to controls, both patients had decreased11C-UCB-J binding, especially in parietal and occipital regions (FDR-correctedp< 0.05). There were no significant correlations across regions between11C-UCB-J binding and grey matter, tau (18F-AV1451) or amyloid (11C-PiB) in either patient.

Conclusions

Quantitative imaging of in vivo synaptic density in DLB is a promising approach to understanding the mechanisms of DLB, over and above changes in grey matter volume and concurrent amyloid/tau deposition.
Case report: Treating a co-existence of hidradenitis suppurativa and psoriasis with different therapeutic approaches
Authors: Tampouratzi Eleftheria , Kanni Theodora , Katsantonis John , Douvali Theodora
Published: December 2020

Hidradenitis suppurativa and psoriasis are considered chronic inflammatory diseases suggesting the existence of common pathogenetic pathways. We present two cases of comorbid psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa, treated with certolizumab pegol and brodalumab due to failure of response to other conventional therapies. Monoclonal antibody therapies have revolutionized the treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. Given the good clinical response to anti-IL-17 and anti-tumor necrosis factor agents in patients undergoing psoriasis and hidradenitis treatment, investigations on this direction could represent the starting point in new therapeutic approach for revolutionary treatment in these difficult-to-treat diseases.
Pesticide exposure and lung cancer risk: A case-control study in Nakhon Sawan, Thailand
Authors: Kangkhetkron Teera , Juntarawijit Chudchawal
Published: December 2020

Background: Pesticide exposure might increase risk of lung cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the historical use of pesticides commonly found in Thailand, and lung cancer.

Methods: This case-control study compared a lifetime pesticide exposure of 233 lung cancer cases, and 447 healthy neighbours matched for gender, and age (±5 years). Data on demographic, pesticide exposure and other related factors were collected using a face-to-face interview questionnaire. Associations between lung cancer and types of pesticides as well as individual pesticides were analyzed using logistic regression adjusted for gender (male, female), age (≤54, 55-64, 65-74, ≥75), cigarette smoking ( never smoked, smoked < 109,500, smoked ≥ 109,500), occupation (farmer, non-farmer), cooking fumes exposure (yes, no), and exposure to air pollution (yes, no).

Results: It was found that lung cancer was positively associated with lifetime use of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides. Compared to people in the lowest quartile of number of days using the herbicides and insecticides, those in a higher quartile had an elevated risk of lung cancer, with odds ratio (OR) between 3.31 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.49–7.34), and 12.58 (95% CI 5.70-27.75) (p < 0.001). For fungicides, only the most exposed group had a significant risk (OR = 4.25; 95% CI 1.23-14.72). For individual pesticides, those presenting a significant association with lung cancer were dieldrin (OR = 2.56; 95% CI 1.36-4.81), chlorpyrifos (OR = 3.29; 95 % CI 1.93-5.61), and carbofuran (OR = 2.10; 95% CI 1.28-3.42).

Conclusions: The results showed that lung cancer among Thai people in Nakhon Sawan province is associated with previous pesticide use. This finding was consistent with previous studies in other parts of the world. Further study should focus on identifying more individual compounds that may cause lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer.
Cyclic stroke mortality variations follow sunspot patterns
Authors: Geronikolou Stella , Leontitsis Alexandros , Petropoulos Vasilis , Davos Constantinos , Cokkinos Dennis , Chrousos George
Published: December 2020

Background: Mapping time-structures is a burgeoning scientific field enriching the (P4) medicine models. Local evidence in Mediterranean populations is underinvestigated. Methods: The Censused stroke-related death events (D) in the largest East-Mediterranean port (Piraeus), during (1985-1989), when local population had diet (low fat/sugar, proteins and vegetables/fruits daily, and pure olive oil almost exclusively) and genetic homogeneity-later interrupted by the immigration into Greece in 1990; and Sunspot numbers were indexed by Wolf numbers (Rz) (1944-2004), and evaluated using Fast Fourier Analysis and Singular Spectrum Analysis in MATLAB. Results: D were turned with fluctuations >35% in Rz. A non-anthropogenic 6.8 days cycle was recognized. Conclusions: This study may be taken into consideration in future public health planning and chronotherapy evaluations.
ABOUT BASIC PRINCIPLES AND PRIORITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE RUSSIAN ARCTIC TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE GLOBALIZATION FACTOR
Authors: Pobedonostseva Veronika , Pobedonostseva Galina
Published: December 2020

The basic principles and development priorities of the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation and the impact on some of them of the global growth factor of the world population are considered. The analysis of the rating of the quality of life of the population of the Russian Arctic regions. It lags behind the rating of the level of economic development of these regions.
ИНВЕСТИЦИОННАЯ ПРИВЛЕКАТЕЛЬНОСТЬ РЕАЛИЗУЕМЫХ В КРАСНОЯРСКОМ КРАЕ НАЦИОНАЛЬНЫХ ПРОЕКТОВ
Authors: Butakova Nina Mikhailovna , Kudashkin Ilya Valerievich
Published: December 2020

Проблема неравномерности социально-экономического развития российских регионов на данный момент все еще актуальна. Некоторые регионы имеют развитую экономическую систему. Другие субъекты РФ испытывают трудности в собственном экономическом развитии. Уравнять социально-экономическое положение регионов должен комплекс национальных проектов, предложенных Президентом РФ. Реализация проектов возложена на федеральные и региональные органы власти, при этом часть средств на выполнение национальных проектов должны быть привлечена из частного капитала. В настоящей статье проанализирована категория «инвестиционная привлекательность», дана авторская трактовка понятия. Рассмотрен потенциал национальных проектов для развития субъектов РФ. На примере Красноярского края исследована привлекательность проектов для участия частных инвесторов в их реализации на территории региона.Цель: обоснование необходимости повышения инвестиционной привлекательности региона на примере Красноярского края для частного капитала на основе анализа исполнения национальных проектов.Метод или методология проведения работы: в статье использовались общенаучные подходы теоретического исследования: описание, изложение, анализа и синтеза.Результаты: предложено авторское понимание «инвестиционной привлекательности». Выделены конкурентные стороны Красноярского края для привлечения инвесторов в регион. Исследован потенциал государственно-частного партнерства для выполнения национальных проектов в субъекте, рассмотрены преимущества реализации проектов для бизнеса: налоговые льготы, выход на новые рынки сбыта товаров и услуга и т.д.Область применения результатов: проведенные исследования могут использоваться для повышения инвестиционной привлекательности региона и более эффективной реализации национальных проектов.
ASYMMETRY IN APPEARANCE OF THE LEADING AND FOLLOWING POLARITIES IN THE PHOTOSPHERIC MAGNETIC FIELD AT THE EARLY STAGE OF ACTIVE REGION FORMATION
Authors: Grigoryev Victor , Ermakova Lyudmila , Khlystova Anna
Published: December 2020

We study the evolution of the photospheric magnetic field at the early stage of active region development. We use data on longitudinal component of the magnetic field and line-of-sight velocities from SOHO/MDI and SDO/HMI. The visual inspection of 48 cases of birth of active regions and the detailed analysis of the magnetic flux dynamics in 4 active regions have shown that at the time of emergence of a new magnetic field, the field of the following polarity is the first to be detected in the photosphere. The flux asymmetry of the leading and following polarities persists for several tens of minutes. The observed asymmetry of magnetic fluxes supports the results of the numerical simulation of emergence of the active region magnetic field in the upper layers of the convective zone, which has been carried out by Rempel and Cheung [2014].
MHD WAVES IN THE COLLISIONAL PLASMA OF THE SOLAR CORONA AND TERRESTRIAL IONOSPHERE
Authors: Nekrasov Anatoliy , Pilipenko Vyacheslav
Published: December 2020

We have studied MHD waves (Alfvén and fast compressional modes) in a homogeneous collisional three-component low-β plasma. The three-component plasma consists of electrons, ions, and neutrals with arbitrary ratio between collision frequencies and wave time scales. We have derived a general dispersion equation and relationships for phase velocity and collisional damping rates for MHD modes for various limiting cases: from weak collisions to a strong collisional coupling, and for longitudinal and oblique propagation. In a weak collision limit, the MHD eigen-modes are reduced to ordinary low-damping Alfvén and fast magnetosonic waves. For a partially ionized plasma with a strong collisional coupling of neutrals and ions, velocities of magnetosonic and Alfvén waves are substantially reduced, as compared to the Alfvén velocity in the ideal MHD theory. At a very low frequency, when neutrals and ions are strongly coupled, a possibility arises of weakly damping MHD modes, called “decelerated” MHD modes. These modes can be observed in the solar corona/chromosphere and in the F layer of the terrestrial ionosphere.
ANALYTICAL MODEL OF THE PLANETARY BOW SHOCK FOR VARIOUS MAGNETIC FIELD DIRECTIONS BASED ON MHD CALCULATIONS
Authors: Kotova Galina , Verigin Mikhail , Gomboshi Tamash , Kabin Konstantin
Published: December 2020

Study of physical processes in plasma near planets often requires knowledge of the position and shape of the planetary bow shock. Empirical models are usually used since theoretical MHD and kinetic models consume too much computer time and cannot be used to track fast processes. M.I. Verigin proposed a semi-empirical approach based on the use of exact theoretical expressions with a small number of parameters, which have a clear physical meaning. These parameters are estimated by fitting experimental data or detailed MHD calculations. A model of the bow shock near an arbitrary-shaped obstacle has previously been developed for a gas-dynamic flow. This model can be applied to any sonic Mach numbers and large values of the Alfven Mach number. In addition, the asymptotic Mach cone — the angle of inclination of the shock wave at an infinite distance from the planet — has been calculated analytically in the MHD approximation. In this paper, we propose a model of the bow shock for any direction of the magnetic field with respect to the upcoming flow and for any Mach numbers. Parameters of the model are the distance of the nose point from the obstacle, radius of curvature and bluntness of the bow shock at the nose point, a parameter related to the transition to the asymptotic downstream slope of the shock, and a skewing angle appearing when the interplanetary magnetic field is directed at an angle to the solar wind velocity.
The acquisition of ICT skills at the university level: the case of the Faculty of Business Studies and Tourism of the University of Huelva
Authors: Infante-Moro Alfonso , Infante-Moro Juan , Gallardo-Pérez Julia
Published: December 2020

The acquisition of skills in ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) has a relevant role in the training programs of educational institutions, since these skills are among the most demanded when companies decide to look for workers. For this reason, this study aims to analyze the training in ICT skills that the students of the Faculty of Business Sciences and Tourism of the University of Huelva (Spain) possess according to their professors and the importance that these professors give to their acquisition for the future professional performance of their students, and observe if these two variables differ from the opinion of the students, to know if corrective measures should be taken in the training programs when transmitting said skills. This research is carried out through a questionnaire carried out to 46 professors of said Faculty and concludes that, in general, the study plans have been able to promote the learning of these ICT skills and to relativize the acquisition of these for the future job performance of their students.
Demand Effects of the Internet-of-Things Sales Channel: Evidence from Automating the Purchase Process
Authors: Adamopoulos Panagiotis , Todri Vilma , Ghose Anindya
Published: December 2020

The internet of things (IoT) is rapidly becoming one of the most popular emerging technologies in business and society. One of the major verticals that has recently begun to effectively use IoT technologies is the retail industry. Given the unprecedented opportunities IoT generates for brands and retailers, it is important to glean timely insights regarding the business value of IoT and understand whether the introduction of an IoT technology as an alternative purchase channel for consumers affects the sales of physical products. Using empirical data from a multinational online retailer who adopted an IoT technology that largely automates the consumers’ purchases and employing a quasi-experimental framework, we study the effect of the introduction of IoT as an alternative sales channel on product sales. Our analyses reveal a statistically and economically significant increase in sales and demonstrate the business value of the IoT channel for retailers and brands. In addition, we conduct other analyses of IoT to delve into the effect of heterogeneity and empirically validate the underlying mechanisms by examining the impact of IoT for products in different price ranges, levels of substitutability, and product categories. For instance, our analyses reveal that less expensive and more differentiated products, as well as experience and utilitarian goods, can accrue higher benefits leveraging more effectively novel IoT technologies. This is the first paper to study the impact of an IoT technology on product sales, drawing important implications for devices and technologies largely automating the purchase process.
2020 guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Linden Belinda
Published: December 2020

Belinda Linden presents a quarterly overview of recently published guidance of relevance to cardiovascular nursing. This update reviews the 2020 guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology and the European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery regarding the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation.
644. Conmemoración, patrimonio y espacio. Los lugares de memoria histórica y democrática de Andalucía
Authors: Fernández Salinas Víctor , Silva Pérez Rocío
Published: December 2020

La memoria histórica en Andalucía, nacida como en el resto de España de una reivindicación de justicia y reparo a las víctimas de la Guerra Civil y el franquismo, ha experimentado en los últimos años un recorrido que la aproxima al marco conceptual del patrimonio cultural. Además, paralelamente, esta memoria ha encontrado en el espacio un recurso en el que argumentar y tutelar su mensaje. Este trabajo pretende mostrar cómo este proceso no es, ni sencillo en su implementación, ni claro en lo conceptual y protocolario. Para ello analiza los reconocimientos espaciales que ha tenido la memoria histórica en Andalucía (primero Lugares de Memoria Histórica y después Lugares de Memoria Democrática), así como las distintas consideraciones espaciales asociadas que merecen tales reconocimientos. Como resultado, además de la reflexión general desde el punto de vista espacial del proceso, se aportan propuestas que mejoren la inclusión en el ámbito patrimonial del legado de esta memoria.
Assessment of the corneal collagen organization after chemical burn using second harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Bueno Juan M. , Ávila Francisco J. , Lorenzo-Martín Elvira , Gallego-Muñoz Patricia , Carmen Martínez-García M.
Published: December 2020

The organization of the corneal stoma is modified due to different factors, including pathology, surgery or external damage. Here the changes in the organization of the corneal collagen fibers during natural healing after chemical burn are investigated using second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging. Moreover, the structure tensor (ST) was used as an objective tool for morphological analyses at different time points after burn (up to 6 months). Unlike control corneas that showed a regular distribution, the collagen pattern at 1 month of burn presented a non-organized arrangement. SHG signal levels noticeably decreased and individual fibers were hardly visible. Over time, the healing process led to a progressive re-organization of the fibers that could be quantified through the ST. At 6 months, the stroma distribution reached values similar to those of control eyes and a dominant direction of the fibers re-appeared. The present results show that SHG microscopy imaging combined with the ST method is able to objectively monitor the temporal regeneration of the corneal organization after chemical burn. Future implementations of this approach into clinically adapted devices would help to diagnose and quantify corneal changes, not only due to chemical damages, but also as a result of disease or surgical procedures.
Soft x-ray imaging spectroscopy with micrometer resolution
Authors: Schunck Jan O. , Döring Florian , Rösner Benedikt , Buck Jens , Engel Robin Y. , Miedema Piter S. , Mahatha Sanjoy K. , Hoesch Moritz , Petraru Adrian , Kohlstedt Hermann , Schüssler-Langeheine Christian , Rossnagel Kai , David Christian , Beye Martin
Published: December 2020

Soft x-ray spectroscopy is invaluable for gaining insight into quantum materials. However, it is typically conducted in a spatially averaging way, making it blind to inhomogeneity in samples. Here, we demonstrate how we couple imaging to x-ray absorption spectroscopy and resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. Accordingly, we use a 2D detector and an off-axis Fresnel zone plate that images the sample in one spatial dimension and provides spectroscopic information in the other dimension. With our setup, we envision to enable a more detailed understanding of how the behavior of microscopic domains determines the functionality of quantum materials.
Development and validation of a meal quality index with applications to NHANES 2005-2014
Authors: Mainardi Fabio , Prozorovscaia Daniela , Sweeney Gary , Green Hilary
Published: December 2020

The Meal Balance Index (MBI) assesses the nutritional quality and balance of meals. It is a score between 0 and 100 that takes into account both shortfall and excess nutrients, adjusted for the energy content of the meal. In the present study the score was applied to 147849 meals reported in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2005-2014 in order to evaluate its validity and compare against exemplary meals designed as part of 24h diets that meet US dietary guidelines. Meals from exemplary menu plans developed by nutrition experts scored on average 76±14 (mean ± standard deviation) whereas those of NHANES participants scored 45±14. Scores of breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack, considered jointly as independent variables, were moderately but positively and significantly associated with the Healthy Eating Index (Pearson correlation 0.6). MBI scores were significantly associated with the density of positive micronutrients (e.g. Vit A, Vit C) and favorable food groups (e.g. fruits, whole grains) not directly included in the MBI algorithm. The MBI is a valid tool to assess the nutritional quality of meals reported in the US population and if applied to culinary recipe websites could potentially help users to understand which meals are nutritionally balanced. Choice of more balanced individual meals can guide healthier cooking and eating.
Assessment of Technical Quality of 9562 Endodontic Cases Treated by Undergraduate Students and Endodontics Specialists
Authors: Bozkurt Durmuş Alperen , Terlemez Arslan , Özcan Mutlu
Published: December 2020

Objective: The aim of the study was to assessment of technical quality of 9562 endodontic cases treated by heterogeneous groups with different clinical experience. Material and methods: This retrospective study reviewed the dental records of 8590 patients (9562 endodontic cases and 13203 root canals including 3340 retreatment root canals) treated by fourth-year undergraduates, fifth-year undergraduates, endodontic program students, and endodontic specialists between December 2017 and December 2018 at the Department of Endodontics of Necmettin Erbakan University Faculty of Dentistry in Konya. The length, density, and taper of root fillings, the acceptable technical quality of the root filling criteria, and the presence of procedural errors, were recorded. Chi-square tests with a significance level at p=0.05 were used for statistical analysis. Results: Acceptable root fillings were found in 71.5% of endodontic cases. Clinical experience showed statistical differences in the root filling quality among fourth-year undergraduates, fifth-year undergraduates, endodontic program students, and specialists (52, 63.1, 77.9 and 86.5% respectively). Fractured instruments and missed canals were noted in 9.8% and 0.57% of cases treated by endodontic program students significantly more than the other clinical experiences. No statistical differences were found among the clinical experiences in other procedural errors. No statistically significant differences were found between age range and gender in additional root canals. Statistically significant differences were observed between the number of root canal retreatments in terms of age range and gender. Conclusions: Clinical experience affects the technical quality of root canal treatments. Fractured instruments and missed canals, especially by endodontic program students, should be given more attention.
KEYWORDS
Dental radiography; Education; Undergraduate.
Oral health status of female hospitalized psychiatric patients in Jazan: A Case-control study
Authors: Alakhali Mohammed Sultan , Ibraheem Wael Ibraheem M , Al-Maweri Sadeq Ali , Al neami Salha Ibrahim , Alhuraysi Fatimah Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Objectives: Poor oral health is an important determinant of general health in patients with mental illnesses. The present study was conducted to evaluate the dental and periodontal status of hospitalized female psychiatric patients in Jazan city, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods:  This study included 82 subjects:  37 psychiatric female patients, and 45 age- and gender- matched healthy controls. Dental caries experience (decayed, missing, and  filled teeth  index ( DMFT ) and periodontal health status were recorded. SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:   The mean ages were comparable among the two groups.  Psychiatric patients showed poor oral hygiene practices, with only 56.6% reported regularly brushing their teeth as compared with 82.2% of controls (P < 0.05).  Control subjects had significantly higher DMFT mean scores than psychiatric female patients. However, psychiatric patients had significantly higher mean scores of missing teeth (M component) and lower restored teeth (F component) as compared with controls. Moreover, the mean attachment loss scores were significantly higher in the psychiatric group (0.76±1.58) compared with controls (0.23; 0.44 p < 0.01). Conclusions: Psychiatric patients showed poor oral hygiene practices and a high prevalence of untreated dental caries and periodontal diseases. Effective oral health promotion strategies need to be implemented to improve the oral health and oral health practices of this group of people.
Keywords
Psychiatric patients; Dental; Periodontal disease; Oral hygiene.
Basilar artery dolichoectasia an unusual and rare cause of secondary trigeminal neuralgia: a clinical report
Authors: Khan Zafar Ali Khan Ali , Khan Shammas Raza Khan Raza , Mehmood Tariq , Asghar Chaudhary Umar , Ahmed Naseer
Published: December 2020

Objective: Patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia often consults a dentist for relief of their symptoms as the pain seems to be arising from teeth and allied oral structures. Basilar artery Dolichoectasia is an unusual and very rare cause of secondary Trigeminal Neuralgia as it compresses the Trigeminal nerve Root Entry Zone. Case reports: We report three cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia caused by Basilar artery Dolichoectasia compression. The corneal reflex was found absent in all three of the cases along with mild neurological deficits in one case. Multiplanar T1/T2W images through the brain disclosed an aberrant, cirsoid (S-shaped) and torturous Dolichoectasia of basilar artery offending the Trigeminal nerve Root Entry Zone. Discussion: Based on these findings we propose a protocol for general dentist for diagnosis of patients with trigeminal neuralgia and timely exclusion of secondary intracranial causes. Conclusion: General dentists and oral surgeons ought to consider this diagnosis in patients presenting with chronic facial pain especially pain mimicking neuralgia with loss of corneal reflex or other neurosensory deficit on the face along with nighttime pain episodes. Timely and accurate diagnosis and prompt referral to a concerned specialist can have an enormous impact on patient survival rate in such cases.
KEYWORDS
Basilar artery; Cirsoid dolichoectasia; Corneal reflex; Trigeminal neuralgia.
Fundamentos de Educación Ambiental y Políticas de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación: aproximaciones para el fomento de un nuevo espacio de discusión político-educativo
Authors: Gomez Lotero William Leonardo , Castro de Freitas Andre Luis
Published: December 2020

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo analizar los fundamentos de las políticas de CTI, desde una perspectiva latinoamericana, para cuestionar cómo las relaciones de poder, de intervención, de producción de conocimiento y de discusión entre ciencia y democracia, proponen caminos y nuevos sentidos a las cuestiones ambientales. Por tanto, es por medio de la Educación Ambiental que transitará la explicación de este fenómeno. Como metodología elegimos un enfoque cualitativo. El tipo de investigación es de carácter bibliográfico y documental, y se analizaron los datos con Análisis de Contenido. El resultado alcanzado, fomenta una discusión político-educativa entre la CTI y la Educación Ambiental, la cual es marcada histórica y sociológicamente con las imbricaciones de las concepciones de ciencia y las macro tendencias de Educación Ambiental.
Educação Ambiental de Técnicos em Química: estudo sobre interferentes endócrinos na água através de visitas técnicas, entrevistas e júri simulado
Authors: Nunes Luiza Siqueira , Santos Victor Marcondes de Freitas , Mol Marcos Paulo Gomes
Published: December 2020

Diante da intensa degradação ambiental dos corpos d’água com poluentes emergentes, esse trabalho aborda a questão controversa sobre hormônios nas águas naturais e os malefícios dos mesmos. Objetivando o desenvolvimento de competências dos alunos do ensino técnico de uma instituição privada, as seguintes estratégias didáticas foram utilizadas: visitas técnicas, entrevistas e júri simulado. Os resultados foram apresentados conforme teoria ator-rede (ANT), em uma matriz polêmica na qual algumas realidades colaterais foram representadas, partindo de diferentes pontos de vista e demonstrando o benefício de tais vivências no processo de ensino da educação ambiental.
Uso da avaliação multidimensional em idosos com Diabetes mellitus na Atenção Primária à Saúde: um estudo piloto
Authors: Gelsleuchter Juliete Coelho , Hammerschmidt Karina Silveira de Almeida , Girondi Juliana Balbinot Reis , Locks Melissa Orlandi Honório , Brehmer Laura Cavalcanti de Farias , De Carvalho Anderson Abreu
Published: December 2020

O diabetes mellitus representa importante causa de morbidade e mortalidade na população idosa, associado a hábito alimentares inadequados, sedentarismo e fatores socioeconômicos. Aspectos preventivos e o tratamento adequado são fundamentais para a manutenção da qualidade de vida nesses indivíduos. Assim, objetiva-se identificar os itens da avaliação multidimensional utilizados na consulta de enfermagem ao idoso com diabetes mellitus. Trata-se de estudo piloto do tipo caso múltiplo holístico, conduzido em 19 idosos diagnosticados com diabetes mellitus e usuários da Unidade Básica de Saúde de São José, Santa Catarina. Brasil. A coleta de dados ocorreu em 2017 e deu-se por análise descritiva analítica documental em prontuários. A idade dos idosos variou entre 61 e 82 anos, sendo 7 mulheres e 12 homens. Hipertensão e dislipidemia foram as comorbidades mais prevalentes. Os itens da avaliação multidimensional mais prevalentes foram: verificação da pressão arterial e peso (73,6%) e verificação de glicemia capilar (36,8%). Os seguintes itens da avaliação estiveram ausentes nos prontuários: alimentação e nutrição; acuidade visual; acuidade auditiva; incontinência urinaria; sexualidade; vacina; avaliação cognitiva; depressão; mobilidade; queda; avaliação funcional; e, suporte familiar. Também, foi possível identificar itens relacionados ao registro de enfermagem, com destaque para a falta de identificação e escassez de registros, e itens da avaliação multidimensional do idoso, usados nas práticas dos enfermeiros através dos registros. Neste contexto, foi evidenciado o baixo uso da avaliação multidimensional para o idoso com diabetes mellitus e a escassez dos registros de enfermagem.
Cerâmicas odontológicas na confecção de facetas laminadas: qual a melhor escolha?
Authors: Dos Santos Lairds Rodrigues , Coelho Alves Claudia Maria
Published: December 2020

A demanda por restaurações estéticas tem resultado em um aumento do uso das cerâmicas dentais, constituindo a principal alternativa de material restaurador. Além de proporcionarem um grande mimetismo das estruturas dentárias elas promovem a restauração da camada dentária perdida, devolvendo a resistência mecânica ao dente e garantindo a estabilidade de cor. O propósito desta revisão foi mostrar as possibilidades da reabilitação estética com cerâmicas odontológicas para tratamento restaurador com facetas laminadas. Artigos científicos, disponíveis nas bases de dados Pubmed, Google acadêmico, Scielo, portal Capes e em revistas relacionadas ao assunto foram consultados. Também foram pesquisados livros e websites. Verificou-se na literatura pesquisada que o principal material de escolha para a confecção de facetas laminadas é o dissilicato de lítio, pois quando comparada aos outros, eles apresentam uma melhor capacidade adesiva, aperfeiçoamento no processo de confecção laboratorial, resistência flexural triplicada, além de excelente estética, translucidez, opacidade e fluorescência semelhantes ao do dente. As porcelanas à base de dissilicato de lítio são as mais indicadas para a confecção de facetas laminadas por apresentarem maior resistência flexural, excelente estética e melhor capacidade adesiva em comparação a outras cerâmicas odontológicas.
Artigo: Da Silveira TB, Tavella RA, Fernandez JB, Ribeiro APFA, Garcia EM, da Silva Júnior FMR. Perfil epidemiológico de recém-nascidos internados em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal em hospitais universitários no extremo Sul do Brasil. Vittalle 2020; 32(2): 46-54.
Authors: Martins Thiago
Published: December 2020

Como comentários ao artigo “Perfil epidemiológico de recém-nascidos internados em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal em hospitais universitários no extremo Sul do Brasil.” (1) publicado na sua estimada revista (volume 32, número 2, 2020), gostaria de complementar alguns pontos.
O artigo demonstra que a prematuridade, baixo peso ao nascer, perímetro cefálico reduzido e doenças respiratórias foram os desfechos desfavoráveis mais prevalentes entre os recém nascidos internados (1). A prematuridade aumenta a prevalência da retinopatia da prematuridade que está entre as principais causas de cegueira prevenível nessa faixa etária (2,3). Isso demonstra a necessidade de capacitação adequada dos médicos para lidar com essas patologias.  A formação de especialistas em retinopatia da prematuridade e muitas vezes inadequada, que muitas vezes discordam dos critérios clínicos utilizados na avaliação dos estágios da retinopatia da prematuridade (4).
Esses problemas podem ser solucionados com a melhor capacitação dos médicos generalistas na triagem de problemas oftalmológicos, como com o desenvolvimento de modelos de ensino para o treinamento do teste do reflexo vermelho (5). Outra alternativa é o desenvolvimento de novos equipamentos que auxiliem a captura da imagem da retina dos prematuros e permita o adequado acompanhamento desses pacientes por programas de telemedicina (6).
Outra solução para o aumento de demanda de patologias oftalmológicas em recém nascidos e o desenvolvimento de algoritmos de inteligência artificial que permitem uma análise automática das imagens, avaliando alguns graus de retinopatia da prematuridade, principalmente avaliando a forma plus da doença, que possui um aumento da tortuosidade vascular. Contudo, os algoritmos ainda possuem uma dificuldade de avaliar adequadamente as imagens da periferia da retina do recém-nascido, que são os locais de maior interesse, já que a vascularização da retina só atinge a região periférica com o adequado desenvolvimento desses pacientes (7)
Dessa forma, o conhecimento do perfil dos recém nascidos das unidades de terapia intensiva são importantes para o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas adequadas de triagem das patologias mais prevalentes. Essas políticas podem englobar uma adequada formação dos profissionais de saúde, além do uso da tecnologia como o desenvolvimento de programas de telemedicina ou inteligência artificial. O retorno desse investimento e garantido pela redução de importantes causas de cegueira preveníveis devido ao aumento do número de prematuros de risco.
Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Cohort Studies
Authors: Wang Qiao-Li , Ness-Jensen Eivind , Santoni Giola , Xie Shao-Hua , Lagergren Jesper
Published: December 2020

INTRODUCTION:

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) carries a poor prognosis, but earlier tumor detection would improve survival. We aimed to develop and externally validate a risk prediction model based on exposure to readily available risk factors to identify high-risk individuals of ESCC.

METHODS:

Competing risk regression modeling was used to develop a risk prediction model. Individuals' absolute risk of ESCC during follow-up was computed with the cumulative incidence function. We used prospectively collected data from the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) for model derivation and the UK Biobank cohort for validation. Candidate predictors were age, sex, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI), education, cohabitation, physical exercise, and employment. Model performance was validated internally and externally by evaluating model discrimination using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) and model calibration.

RESULTS:

The developed risk prediction model included age, sex, smoking, alcohol, and BMI. The AUC for 5-year risk of ESCC was 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58–0.93) in the derivation cohort and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.64–0.75) in the validation cohort. The calibration showed close agreement between the predicted cumulative risk and observed probabilities of developing ESCC. Higher net benefit was observed when applying the risk prediction model than considering all participants as being at high risk, indicating good clinical usefulness. A web tool for risk calculation was developed: https://sites.google.com/view/escc-ugis-ki.

DISCUSSION:

This ESCC risk prediction model showed good discrimination and calibration and validated well in an independent cohort. This readily available model can help select high-risk individuals for preventive interventions.
Traffic Sign Detection and Classification based on Combination of MSER Features and Multi-language OCR
Authors: Khayeat Ali Retha Hasoon , Abdulmunem Ashwan A. , Al-Shammari Rafeef Fauzi Najim , Sun Xianfang
Published: December 2020

Road signs are so important because they help preserve safe driving conditions; they also influence the safety of drivers and pedestrians. Without these signs, no one would know the driving speed limit, on which direction to drive down a road, any upcoming hazard, or whether they are approaching a merge. It would be chaotic to drive in such situations. Moreover, these signs help new drivers to find their way in the absence of navigators. Therefore, traffic sign recognition takes a critical place in computer vision applications to develop an effective algorithm. In order to tackle this challenge, we proposed the use of Multi-language Traffic Sign Detection and Classification. One of our contributions in this work is that, instead of using the standard grayscale image, we used the RGB colored image. This image is converted into the 2D highest-level grayscale image using the largest values of each pixel in the RGB channels. The novel generated image has the strongest features of the RGB image that make the features distinct and more informative in the classification step. Consider that, in general, the traffic sign has two colors only, the foreground (text location) and background (non-text location). The Maximally Stable Extremal Regions (MSER) used to extract features from the 2D image where the locations of interest are well-identified exclusively by an extremal property of the intensity function in the location and on its outer boundary. The geometrical properties and thinning operations were used to remove the non-text locations. A multi-language OCR was used to understand multi-language. This proposed method has been tested using 240 images which were collected from the Internet and two datasets. The experimental results demonstrated the performance of the proposed method where the traffic sign detected in 92% of the tested images with a very high percentage of localization.