bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radar-based Precipitation Climatology in Germany – Developments, Uncertainties and Potentials
Authors: Kreklow Jennifer , Tetzlaff Björn , Burkhard Benjamin , Kuhnt Gerald
Published: February 2020

Precipitation is a crucial driver for many environmental processes and weather radars are capable of providing precipitation information with high spatial and temporal resolution. However, radar-based quantitative precipitation estimates (QPE) are also subject to various potential uncertainties. This study explores the development, uncertainties and potentials of the hourly operational German radar-based and gauge-adjusted QPE called RADOLAN and its reanalysed radar climatology dataset named RADKLIM in comparison to ground-truth rain gauge data. The precipitation datasets are statistically analysed across various time scales ranging from annual and seasonal aggregations to hourly rainfall intensities in regard to their capability to map long-term precipitation distribution, to detect low intensity rainfall and to capture heavy rainfall. Moreover, the impacts of season, orography and distance from the radar on long-term precipitation sums are examined in order to evaluate dataset performance and to describe inherent biases. Results revealed that both radar products tend to underestimate total precipitation sums and particularly high intensity rainfall. But our analyses also showed significant improvements throughout the RADOLAN time series as well as major advances through the climatologic reanalysis regarding the correction of typical radar artefacts, orographic and winter precipitation as well as range-dependent attenuation.
Recovering Climatic Data from Documentary Sources: A Case Study of the Climate in Southern Spain from 1792 to 1808
Authors: S. Rodrigo Fernando
Published: February 2020

New data on the climate in southern Spain from 1792 to 1808 are analyzed in this work. The data source is the newspaper Correo Mercantil de España y sus Indias, where summaries of the weather conditions in Spain were published at weekly resolution. The study is focused on southern provinces, providing 2788 new records, some of them corresponding to areas without data previously recorded. The analysis indicates the predominance of cold-dry winters, cold-wet springs, warm-dry summers, and variable conditions in autumn, from west (cold-wet) to east (warm-dry). Some examples of these situations are presented.
A cultura digital na formação de professores
Authors: Souza Joseilda Sampaio de , Bonilla Maria Helena Silveira
Published: February 2020

O artigo apresenta reflexões sobre o processo de formação de professores no contexto da cultura digital. Os resultados apresentados nesse texto são oriundos da pesquisa de mestrado em Educação - “Cultura digital e formação de professores: articulação entre os Projetos Irecê e Tabuleiro Digital”, realizada com professores cursistas do curso de Pedagogia oferecido pela Faculdade de Educação da Universidade Federal da Bahia aos professores da rede municipal de Irecê-Ba. A investigação qualitativa e a etnopesquisa formação foram adotados enquanto percurso metodológico, sendo que a análise documental, a observação participante e as entrevistas semi-estruturadas constituiram-se nos subsídios necessários para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa. Neste texto, trazemos para reflexão e análise as ações desenvolvidas pelo curso de pedagogia, apresentando e discutindo sobre o movimento de vivência da cultura digital, colocando em questão a possibilidade de se integrar tal cultura aos processos formativos de professores, no sentido de provocar transformações significativas em nossas concepções e práticas, nas instituições e na sociedade, buscando sempre a formação de sujeitos críticos, autônomos, atuantes, autores de conhecimento e cultura.
Composições híbridas na pesquisa-formação multirreferencial
Authors: Santos Edméa , Carvalho Felipe da Silva Ponte de , Santos Rosemary dos
Published: February 2020

Neste trabalho, buscamos investigar de que maneira podemos propor práticas formativas colaborativas em Educação online (SANTOS, SILVA) com os cursistas da Disciplina Informática na Educação do curso de Formação de Professores e Licenciatura em Pedagogia à distância da UERJ/CEDERJ. Com esse propósito, desenvolvemos a pesquisa-formação multirreferencial (JOSSO, ARDOINO) com os cotidianos sobre a égide de um paradigma emergente (BOAVENTURA). Os dispositivos de pesquisa foram à plataforma Moodle e o site de criação de escrita colaborativa - wikispaces.
Referencial para design de infográficos digitais aplicáveis na educação profissional e tecnológica
Authors: Caetano Lélia , Ribeiro Luís Otoni Meireles
Published: February 2020

O presente artigo relata estudo que propõe um referencial para design de infográficos digitais aplicáveis na educação profissional e tecnológica. A partir da análise de 423 infográficos foi sistematizado um repertório de elementos de linguagem da infografia. A estratificação dos dados chegou à identificação dos principais elementos básicos de linguagem e dos principais elementos que caracterizam a representação de cada tipo de conhecimento. A pesquisa fornece elementos para analisar as demandas de representação do conhecimento e orientar educadores e equipes de produção de material didático, quanto aos requisitos para criação e ou seleção de infográficos que venham contribuir com objetivos de ensino-aprendizagem.
Fernando de Azevedo, “a cultura brasileira” e a história da educação: notas historiográficas
Authors: Anjos Juarez José Tuchinski dos
Published: February 2020

Tomando por objeto de análise a obra “A Cultura Brasileira”, de Fernando de Azevedo, considerada uma das escritas fundantes da história da educação brasileira, o artigo tem por objetivo dialogar com a historiografia da obra azevediana a fim de reunir algumas notas historiográficas que auxiliem na leitura crítica desta obra e da narrativa de história da educação produzida por seu autor.
APRESENTAÇÃO
Authors: Galak Eduardo , Silveira Dantas Junior Hamilcar , Orbuch Ivan Pablo
Published: February 2020

Novas velhas tecnologias: usos pedagógicos para a educação estéticae a formação de sensibilidades nos processos de escolarização
Lista de Pareceristas Avaliadores - 2018
Authors: Dias Alfrancio Ferreira
Published: February 2020

Lista de Pareceristas Avaliadores - 2018
O QUE OS CORPOS (DIZEM QUE) PODEM: UMA APRESENTAÇÃO
Authors: Galak Eduardo , Donato Antonio , Tonelli Leonardo
Published: February 2020

APRESENTAÇÃO.
Uma proposta de uso dos questionários socioeconômicos da Prova Brasil
Authors: Candido Helena Hinke Dobrochinski
Published: February 2020

Este trabalho visa analisar os questionários socioeconômicos que acompanharam a Prova Brasil 2011, direcionados aos alunos do 5° e do 9° ano do Ensino Fundamental, com base na teoria sociológica de Pierre Bourdieu. Esta opção foi intencional, pois algumas das categorias de análise deste sociólogo, como capital cultural, por exemplo, podem ser percebidas de forma implícita em tais questionários. Entretanto, outras abordagens teóricas também seriam possíveis, corroborando o uso de estruturas teóricas coerentes e consistentes para analisar dados, sejam eles quantitativos ou qualitativos. Não se pretende investigar os dados coletados por estes questionários neste momento, mas analisar as questões e o tipo de informações que tal instrumento pode oferecer aos pesquisadores. Considera-se imprescindível que qualquer análise de dados esteja fundamentada em um aporte teórico adequado, razoável e relevante para o problema de pesquisa, independentemente dos autores ou perspectivas adotados.
Da meritocracia escolar financiada pela família à meritocracia escolar promovida pelo estado: a igualdade de oportunidades progride a passo
Authors: Valle Ione Ribeiro
Published: February 2020

A reflexão que apresentamos aqui toma como referência noções da teoria das práticas sociais de Pierre Bourdieu e de seus colaboradores, com o objetivo de examinar aspectos da política educacional brasileira em vigência dos anos 1960 aos dias de hoje. Partimos do pressuposto que nossa meritocracia escolar tem sido financiada historicamente pelas famílias, favorecendo aquelas que estão mais bem posicionadas para desenvolver estratégias de reconversão dos seus capitais (econômico, cultural, social, simbólico). Diferentemente do que ocorre na França, a meritocracia escolar promovida pelo Estado brasileiro avança muito lentamente e ganha força no Plano Nacional de Educação (2014/2024). O quadro teórico mobilizado para esta reflexão nos ajuda a desnudar artimanhas de reprodução social e, ao mesmo tempo, a apostar na Escola e na Universidade como espaços de frenagem das desigualdades e de luta por justiça social. Duas dimensões foram destacadas: uma centrada nas crianças e jovens deixados à margem do processo de escolarização, outra centrada nos “sobreviventes”, naqueles que têm conseguido escapar do seu “destino escolar” e que, progressivamente, vão povoando e matizando nossas escolas e universidades.
Crystal structure of DRIK1, a stress-responsive receptor-like pseudokinase, reveals the molecular basis for the absence of ATP binding
Authors: Aquino Bruno , Silva Viviane C. H. da , Massirer Katlin B. , Arruda Paulo
Published: February 2020

Background: Plants reprogram metabolism and development to rapidly adapt to biotic and abiotic stress. Protein kinases play a significant role in this process by phosphorylating protein substrates that activate or inactivate signaling cascades that regulate cellular and metabolic adaptations. Despite their importance in plant biology, a notably small fraction of the plant kinomes has been studied to date. Results: In this report, we describe ZmDRIK1, a stress-responsive receptor-like pseudokinase whose expression is downregulated under water restriction. We show the structural features and molecular basis of the absence of ATP binding exhibited by ZmDRIK1. The ZmDRIK1 kinase domain lacks conserved amino acids that are essential for phosphorylation activity. The crystal structure of the ZmDRIK1 kinase domain revealed the presence of a spine formed by the side chain of the triad Leu240, Tyr363, and Leu375 that occludes the ATP binding pocket. Although ZmDRIK1 is unable to bind nucleotides, it does bind the small molecule ENMD-2076 which, in a cocrystal structure, revealed the potential to serve as a ZmDRIK1 inhibitor.Conclusion: ZmDRIK1 is a novel receptor-like pseudokinase responsive to biotic and abiotic stress. The absence of ATP binding and consequently, the absence of phosphorylation activity, was proven by the crystal structure of the apo form of the protein kinase domain. The expression profiling of the gene encoding ZmDRIK1 suggests this kinase may play a role in downregulating the expression of stress responsive genes that are not necessary under normal conditions. Under biotic and abiotic stress, ZmDRIK1 is down-regulated to release the expression of these stress-responsive genes.
The influence of cognitive schemas on the mixed anxiety-depressive symptoms of breast cancer patients
Authors: Bredicean Ana Cristina , Crăiniceanu Zorin , Oprean Cristina , Rivis Ioana Alexandra , Papavă Ion , Secosan Ica , Frandes Mirela , Giurgi-Oncu Catalina , Grujic Daciana
Published: February 2020

Background: The surgical treatment of breast cancer involves various psychological consequences, which differ according to individual characteristics. Our study aimed to identify the role that cognitive schemas had in triggering anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients diagnosed with breast cancer that underwent oncological and plastic surgery treatment.
Methods: 64 female patients, diagnosed with breast cancer from an Oncology and Plastic Surgery Hospital, were selected to participate in this study between March-June 2018. They were divided into two groups: I. 28 patients who underwent mastectomy surgery; II. 36 patients, who required mastectomy and, subsequently, also chose to undergo breast reconstruction surgery. For the purposes of evaluating a possible change in mental health status, we employed two assessment scales: the Young Cognitive Schema Questionnaire - Short Form 3 (YSQ-S3) and the Romanian version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale – 21 (DASS-21R).
Results: Participants who underwent mastectomy and subsequent breast reconstruction surgery employed cognitive schemas that did not generate symptoms of depression or anxiety. In contrast, the cognitive schemas found in women who refused reconstructive breast surgery were significantly correlated with the presence of anxiety-depressive symptoms.The cognitive schema domain of ‘disconnection and rejection' correlated uncertainly with the presence of anxiety-depressive symptoms for the group with breast reconstruction (Spearman's r= 0.091, p = 0.644), while for the other group the correlation was moderate-strong (Spearman’s r= 0.647, p < 0.01). Negative emotional schemas were significantly correlated with the presence of anxiety-depressive symptoms (Spearman's r= 0.598, p < 0.01) in the group of participants without reconstructive surgery.
Conclusion: A correct identification of dysfunctional cognitive schemas and coping mechanisms at the commencement of the combined treatment in breast cancer patients could serve as an indicator for the evolution of their mental health, therefore assisting professionals in establishing the most suitable psychological, psychotherapeutic and psychiatric intervention plan.
Keywords: breast cancer, cognitive schemas, anxiety, depression, mastectomy, breast reconstruction
Trade-off strategy of leaf functional traits of desert halophyte Lycium ruthenicum in the lower reaches of Heihe River, Northwest China: response to soil moisture and salinity
Authors: Li Shanjia , Gou Wei , Wang Hui , Wu Guoqiang , Su Peixi
Published: February 2020

Background: Soil salinization affects plant growth and causes changes in leaf traits. Lycium ruthenicum Murr., a shrub with significant soil and water conservation capacities. In this paper, we analyze the trade-offs of leaf functional traits of eight L.ruthenicum populations growing at varying distances from the Heihe river by dividing the eight sites into three groups according to the average soil salinity and discussing the effects of soil factors at 0-40cm and 40-80cm on leaf trait patterns. We also attempt to explain desert L.ruthenicum trade-off strategies by choosing fourteen leaf traits to link with soil factors. Results: Low N contents indicated that L.ruthenicum was located at the slow investment-return axis of the species resource utilization graph. Compared to non-saline and very slightly saline sites, populations of slightly saline sites showed higher C:N. The redundancy analysis "RDA" results showed that 0-40cm and 40-80cm soil properties explained 70.99% and 71.09% of leaf trait variation, respectively. As soil salinity gradients increased, leaf C:N increased and N content decreased, and the difference was significant. Populations in non-saline and very slightly saline habitats tended to have higher leaf C content, while populations in slightly saline habitats tended to have lower leaf C content, and the discrepancy was evident. Relative importance analysis found that in the 0-40cm layer, leaf traits variations were mainly influenced by soil water content (SWC), HCO3-and CO32-, while leaf trait variations in the 40-80cm layer were mainly influenced by HCO3- and SO42-ions. Conclusions: The growth of L. ruthenicum in the Ejina desert is mainly restricted by N content, which determines soil fertility. L.ruthenicum has a foliar resource acquisition method and a resource conservation trade-off with a flexible life history strategy. Leaf traits can vary significantly due to different environments in a given habitat. As the environmental gradient changes from mild to severe, the populations present a pattern of increased C:N,increased C content, reduced N:P, and reduced N content. In the shallow soil layers of saline-stressed arid environments,water has a greater effect than salt on leaf trait variation.In both shallow and deep soil layers, HCO3- ions have a relatively large effect on leaf properties.
Effects of Date Fruit (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) on Labor and Delivery Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Karimi Alireza Bagherzadeh , Elmi Asghar , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Navid Roghyeh Baghervand
Published: February 2020

Background: The rate of cesarean section is increasing in all over the world with different drafts in various countries. This growth increases unpleasant outcomes of delivery. Recent studies explained the benefits of date palm fruit on labor process improvement. Date fruit can be considered as a factor for increasing vaginal delivery and also reducing the frequency of caesarean section in order to prevent its great complications. This systematic review has been designed to review clinical studies that investigate the effects of date palm fruit on labor outcomes (duration of labor stages, bishop score, and frequency of cesarean section) compared with routine cares. Methods: This study was performed in 2019. Required data has been collected from electronic databases and manual searches. All randomized clinical trials evaluating the effects of date palm fruit on labor and delivery that were published from January 2000 to August 2019 in English and Persian languages, were incorporated in this systematic review. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated according to the risk of bias assessment of Cochrane handbook of systematic reviews, and were then reported using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Results: Eight studies were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis. Meta-Analysis showed that date fruit consumption can significantly reduce active phase of labor (three trials with 380 participants; (MD= -109.3, 95%CI (-196.32, -22.29; I2=89%), P=0.01), and also it can significantly improve the bishop score (two trials with 320 participants; MD = 2.45, 95%CI (1.87, 3.04; I2=0%), P<0.00001). Date fruit consumption had no effects on the duration of first, second, and third stages of labor, and the frequency of cesarean section. Conclusion: Date can reduce the duration of active phase and improve the bishop score; however, due to from the low to mediate quality of the studies; it seems that the other studies are needed to prove these results better than this.
Comparative genomic analysis of 142 bacteriophages infecting Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica
Authors: Gao Ruimin , Naushad Sohail , Moineau Sylvain , Levesque Roger , Goodridge Lawrence , Ogunremi Dele
Published: February 2020

Background: Bacteriophages are bacterial parasites and are considered the most abundant and diverse biological entities on the planet. Previously we identified 154 prophages from 151 serovars of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica . A detailed analysis of Salmonella prophage genomics is required given the influence of phages on their bacterial hosts and should provide a broader understanding of Salmonella biology and virulence and contribute to the practical applications of phages as vectors and antibacterial agents. Results: Comparative analysis of the full genome sequences of 142 prophages of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica retrieved from public databases revealed an extensive variation in genome sizes (6.4- 358.7 kb) and guanine plus cytosine (GC) content (35.5-65.4%) and a linear correlation between the genome size and the number of open reading frames (ORFs). We used three approaches to compare the phage genomes. The NUCmer/MUMmer genome alignment tool was used to evaluate linkages and correlations based on nucleotide identity between genomes. Multiple sequence alignment was performed to calculate genome average nucleotide identity using the Kalgin program. Finally, genome synteny was explored using dot plot analysis. We found that 90 phage genome sequences grouped into 17 distinct clusters while the remaining 52 genomes showed no close relationships with the other phage genomes and are identified as singletons. We generated genome maps using nucleotide and amino acid sequences which allowed protein-coding genes to be sorted into phamilies (phams) using the Phamerator software. Out of 5796 total assigned phamilies, one phamily was observed to be dominant and was found in 49 prophages, or 34.5% of the 142 phages in our collection. A majority of the phamilies, 4330 out of 5796 (74.7%), occurred in just one prophage underscoring the high degree of diversity among Salmonella bacteriophages. Conclusions: Based on nucleotide and amino acid sequences, a high diversity was found among Salmonella bacteriophages which validate the use of prophage sequence analysis as a highly discriminatory subtyping tool for Salmonella. Thorough understanding of the conservation and variation of prophage genomic characteristics will facilitate their rational design and use as tools for bacterial strain construction, vector development and as anti-bacterial agents.
Comparison between flipped classroom and team-based learning in a prosthodontic class at Tokushima University
Authors: Hayama Rika , Okura Kazuo , Oshima Masamitsu , Hosoki Maki , Suzuki Yoshitaka , Miyagi Mayu , Inoue Miho , Rodis Omar Marianito Maningo , Matsuka Yoshizo
Published: February 2020

Background: Active learning is a concept that allows students to study and learn actively by themselves to get knowledge. There are several methods of active learning, including flipped classroom (FC) and team-based learning (TBL). In FC, students are required to study before classes. In TBL, students study before the class, take the Individual Readiness Assurance Test (IRAT) and Group Readiness Assurance Test (GRAT), and then discuss Group Assignment Projects (GAPs) during class. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness between FC and TBL using longitudinal term-end examination data. Methods: Flipped classroom and TBL effectiveness was assessed from the results of the term-end examinations at the end of the semester from 2014 to 2017. The students were asked to answer questions on the favorable and unfavorable responses of FC and TBL. To check the difficulty of the term-end examinations, control dentists took the same examinations. The dentists were clinical prosthodontic residents who graduated within 3 years from undergraduate course. All prosthodontic residents attended the referential examinations. Results: The term-end examination score of FC and TBL did not show a statistical difference. Multi-way ANOVA showed that the referential examination scores by the dentists were significantly higher than that of the students (P < 0.0001). According to the students, the favorable responses of FC and TBL were on the study habit and the video contents, while the unfavorable responses were mainly on the study materials. Conclusions: There is no statistical difference between FC and TBL on term-end examination scores. There were no interactions between the test period and the participants (students or dentists), and the test period and class format.
Comparative Study of the Clinical Competence of Emergency Nurses Using Self-Assessments and Head Nurse Evaluations
Authors: ghahfarokhi motahareh musavi , Mehrafruz Elina , Radmehr Arman , kiarsi maryam , Shamloo Marziyeh Beigom Bigdeli
Published: February 2020

Background: Clinical competency is the ability of nurses to play a professional role in a clinical environment, especially in an emergency department, in terms of the quality of the services provided. The present study aimed to compare the clinical competence of emergency department nurses using self-assessments and evaluations by head nurses. Method: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted from July to September 2017. The census method was used to select 70 nurses working in the emergency departments of three hospitals. Data was collected by using self-assessment questionnaires and evaluations by head nurses. The instrument was a clinical competency questionnaire with questions related to seven functional fields and 63 skills. The data obtained from descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed by SPSS-16. Result: The viewpoints of nurses and head nurses on the clinical competencies of nurses were assessed as being at a moderate level in the majority of domains. Nurses defined their clinical competencies at a significantly higher level than the head nurses (P<0.05). Conclusion: The periodic assessment of emergency nurses, as a critical part of the hospital, can guide nursing managers to pay attention to professional competence and promote continuing education programs for improving their competencies.
Lysyl oxidase G473A (rs1800449) polymorphism influences the risk of cancer progression: a meta-analysis
Authors: Mongkolrob Rungrawee , Tharabenjasin Phuntila , Bualuang Aporn , Pabalan Noel
Published: February 2020

The genetics of cancer progression is important for the design of optimal therapeutic strategies. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a cancer progression gene that has been studied enough to warrant a synthesis of its primary data from association studies. However, reported associations between the LOX G473A (rs1800449) gene polymorphism and cancer have been inconsistent, prompting a meta-analysis so that we could obtain more precise estimates. Database searches of the published literature yielded seven case-control studies. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using four genetic models: homozygous (H), recessive (R), dominant (D) and codominant (C). Subgroup analysis was based on ethnicity and cancer type. Outlier analysis was used to examine sources of heterogeneity. The strength of evidence was based on the magnitude of effects, high associative significance, consistency and homogeneity. H/R outcomes exerted more associative effects than D/C results. Two reasons for this are as follows: (i) H/R analyses precluded outlier treatment; and (ii) the magnitude of H/R (ORs of > 2.0) was twice that of D/C (ORs > 1.0). All else being equal, significant pooled ORs in all genetic models had high significance (Pa < 10-5). Strong evidence for associations was found in the outcomes for Asian and gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. In summary, the LOX rs1800449 polymorphism confers significant overall susceptibility, particularly in GI cancers, and places Asians at risk.
Tumor microenvironment characterization and Immune infiltration in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Zenghong , Niu Xun , Xiao Xi-Yue , Chen Xiong
Published: February 2020

Background : Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a basic malignant tumor of the head and neck distinct. As a famous heterogeneous disease, the jobs of immune cells inside the tumor-related as yet missing for HNSCC, particularly in current immunotherapy. Method: We explored the TME, TMB and evaluate the 22 TIICs subsets of immune response based on GEO and TCGA database of HNSCC to explore its relationship with atomic subpopulation, survival, function and expression difference and reveal potential targets and biomarkers for immunotherapy. Results: Observing the download of GSE6631 database contained 22 HNSCC samples and 22 normal samples and TCGA database contained 111 HNSCC and 12 normal tissues. The results suggested that the expression of macrophages M0 and T cells CD4 memory resting was significant difference and may plays an important role in regulate cancer progression ( P <0.05). The result of tumor mutational burden revealed that the most common somatic mutations variant classification was missense mutation, the most common DNA sequence polymorphism type was SNP, the most common single nucleotide variants (SNV) class was C>T, the variants per sample median was 78 in HNSCC patients. Top 10 mutated genes that related to TMB was TP53, TTN, FAT1, MUC16, CDKN2A, CSMD3, SYNE1, LRP1B, NOTCH1 and PIK3CA. We portrayed the immune scene in detail, uncovering the awesome immune infiltration styles of various subtypes in HNSCC. Conclusion: The intricate connection between TIIC, TMB and genomic alterations was additionally set up. Our paintings advance the information of immune response and offers significant assets for research to enhance immunotherapy.
Comparison of the Therapeutic Outcomes between Open Plantar Fascia Release and Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Intractable Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Yuan Yusong , Qian Yuan , Lu Hao , Kou Yuhui , Xu Yangbo , Xu Hailin
Published: February 2020

Background: Heel pain is one of the most common complaints in foot and ankle clinic and one of the leading causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out in 31 cases (39 feet) of patients with intractable plantar fasciitis. In the enrolled 26 cases, there were 16 patients (19 feet) received open plantar fascia release, and the other 15 patients (20 feet) received percutaneous radiofrequency ablation. The surgical results were assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) and American orthopaedic foot and ankle society ankle-hindfoot scale (AOFAS-AH) before and after surgery in all patients. Results: All 31 patients were followed up successfully, with a mean follow-up time of 58.77 months. There were no differences of patient’s demographics and characteristics information between the two groups. The average operative time of the feet in the open plantar fascia release is longer time than the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation. Furthermore, the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation group had a shorter recovery time to normal activity than the open plantar fascia release group. There were no difference of postoperative VAS scores and the AOFAS-AH scores between the two groups. All patients reported satisfaction after either operation. Conclusion: Symptoms of pain and limb function were significantly improved in patients both of the partial plantar fascia release treated group and the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation treated group. The two types of surgical procedures shared the same long-term curative effects. However, percutaneous radiofrequency ablation was a better technique from the point of shorter operative time and postoperative recovery time.Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
Production and Concentration of Recombinant Lentiviral Particles
Authors: McCullough Shaun D.
Published: February 2020

This protocol describes the production of recombinant lentivirus by transfection of HEK293T cells with lentiviral packaging vectors and subsequent concentration by ultracentrifugation. The attached methods document is a formal version of the information included here.Disclaimer: The contents of this article have been reviewed by the US Environmental Protection Agency and approved for publication and do not necessarily represent Agency policy. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendations for use.
Fixation and staining of Drosophila L1 larval brains for immunofluorescence microscopy and preparation for live imaging
Authors: Ly Phuong Thao , Thompson John D. , Endow Sharyn A.
Published: February 2020

Drosophila first instar (L1) larval brains (LBs) contain frequent quiescent neural stem cells (qNSCs) as well as activated neuroblasts, making them favorable for studying stem cell quiescence and activation. However, the small size of LBs at the L1 stage necessitates the use of modified methods to prepare the LBs for immunofluorescence microscopy (IFM). The protocol described here allows efficient collection of embryos and maturation of larvae to the mid-L1 stage, followed by dissection, fixation and processing of LBs through the antibody staining steps for IFM. The entire procedure can be completed in ~3-5 days. Methods are also described for use in preparing L1 brains for live imaging experiments, including a file to create accessible and cost-effective 3D printed slides that can be fit with an O2-permeable membrane for live imaging.
Single Level ACCF Combining Single Level Stand-alone ACDF in Treating Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Chen Jingxuan , Shi Wei , Zhou Shengyuan , Chen Xiongsheng , Jia Lianshun
Published: February 2020

Objective Single level ACCF combining single level ACDF (AcA) is an ideal way to treat CSM with multiple consecutive cervical intervertebral disc herniation alongside with severe bony narrowing of the spinal canal in between. AcA with the stand-alone technics on the ACDF level and a shorter titanium plate that only covers the ACCF levels (AcAsa) may possess potential advantages than conventional AcA. We performed a retrospective study to evaluate the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of AcAsa procedure. Methods 379 patients with CSM who had conventional AcA or AcAsa were retrospectively reviewed. Related patients factors, disease factors and treatment factors were acquired and subjected into student’s t test, chi-square test and survive analyses. Results Preoperative and postoperative JOA Scores in AcAsa: p<0.001. Preoperative and postoperative VAS Scores in AcAsa: p<0.001. 12months improvement of JOA Score between preoperative VAS Score≥2 and <2 in AcAsa: p=0.002. The amount of intraoperative blood loss between AcAsa and conventional AcA: p=0.011. Incidence of postoperative dysphagia between AcAsa and conventional AcA: p=0.038. Conclusion AcAsa significantly improve patients’ JOA Scores and reduce VAS Scores. Compared with conventional AcA, AcAsa leads to smaller amount of intraoperative blood loss and lower incidence of postoperative dysphagia. The alleviations of neurological symptoms, cervical motions and disc space heights at the ACDF levels are similar between the two types of surgeries. And patients with preoperative VAS less than 2 may benefit more from an AcAsa procedure.
Study on the job performance of Chinese physicians: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Guo Botang , Qiang Binbin , Chu Haiyun , Zhou Jiawei , Yang Xiuxian , Qiu Xiaohui , Qiao Zhengxue , Song Xuejia , Zhao Erying , Yang Yanjie , Cao Depin
Published: February 2020

Background:To explore the mechanisms between achievement motivation and job performance among physicians of public hospitals in China, this article researched the influence of different personality traits on physicians' job performance. Methods: A survey conducted in 2017, containing samples of 1,523 physicians from eight tertiary grade A hospitals in Harbin, China.A cross-sectional study was applied to data collection about physicians’ achievement motivation, job performance, organizational commitment, personality traits and other demographic variables. This paper also analyzed the relationships between physicians’ job performance and achievement motivation using a moderated mediation model.Independent t-test and ANOVA were applied to describe and compare the demographic data. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine the correlation among the variables. To test the correlation of the eight variables, moderated mediation analysis was performed in this study. Results:Achievement motivation directly affects job performance of Chinese physicians, and organizational commitment partially mediates the direct effects of achievement motivation on job performance. Additionally, we also found that agreeableness and conscientiousness moderate the strength of the relationships between achievement motivation and job performance mediated by organizational commitment. Conclusions:Managers in Chinese public hospitals should pay attention to increase physicians’ level of achievement motivation, and we recommend to enhance organizational commitment through a reasonable compensation system and active organizational culture. And they should also tend to be conscientiousness or agreeableness in the arrangement. Key Words job performance; hospital management; achievement motivation; psychology; moderated mediation model
How nursing students’ placement preferences and perceptions of community care develop in a more ‘community-oriented’ curriculum; A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Iersel Margriet van , Latour Corine , Rijn Marjon van , de Vos Rien , Kirschner Paul A. , Reimer Wilma Scholte op
Published: February 2020

Background: Extramuralisation in healthcare has influenced medical and nursing curricula internationally with the incorporation of themes related to primary/ community care. Despite this, students do not easily change their career preferences. The hospital is still favourite, leading to labour market shortages in extramural care. This study investigates how baccalaureate nursing students’ perceptions of community care and placement preferences develop over time in a more 'community-care-oriented' curriculum, to gain insights on which curriculum elements potentially influence career choices.
Methods: A nursing student cohort of a University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands ( n = 273) underwent a new four-year curriculum containing extended elements of community care. The primary outcome was assessed with the Scale on Community Care Perceptions (SCOPE). Data were collected each year of study. Descriptive statistics were used to investigate students’ placement preferences and perceptions, and linear mixed model techniques (LMMs) for measuring how students’ perceptions develop over time. Patterns of placement preferences at individual level were visualised.
Results: Students’ perceptions of community care, as measured with SCOPE, show a slight decrease between year 1 and 4, while items mutually differ substantially. In contrast, the preference of community care for a placement increases from 2.6% in year 1 tot 8.2% in year 4. The hospital is favourite in year 1 (79.8%), and remains most popular. At individual level, students often change placement preferences, although a preference for the hospital is more consistent. The LMMs indicates that, at the four time-points, the estimated marginal means of students’ perceptions fluctuate between 6 and 7 (range 1-10). A placement in community care did not positively influence students’ perceptions, and an intensive one week theoretical programme was only temporarily influential.
Conclusion: Although interest for placement in community care increased substantially, it was not clear which curriculum elements stimulated this, nor did the curriculum positively influence students’ perceptions. As most students do not look forward to the high responsibility of the field, other curricula with educational tracks for more mature students/ nurses with a vocational training may be an alternative contribution to solving the labour market problems in community care.
Subjects living in an onchocerciasis focus and treated 3-monthly with ivermectin develop fewer new onchocercal nodules than subjects treated annually
Authors: Campillo Jérémy , CHESNAIS Cédric B. , Pion Sébastien D. , Gardon Jacques , Kamgno Joseph , Boussinesq Michel
Published: February 2020

Background Little information is available on the effect of ivermectin on the third and fourth stage larvae of Onchocerca volvulus . To assess a possible prophylactic effect of ivermectin on this parasite, we compared the effects of different ivermectin regimens on the acquisition of onchocercal nodules. Methods We analyzed data from a controlled randomized clinical trial of ivermectin conducted in the Mbam valley (Cameroon) between 1994 and 1998 in a cohort of onchocerciasis infected individuals. The number of nodules that appeared between the start and the end of the clinical trial was analyzed, using ANOVA and multivariable Poisson regressions, between four treatment arms: 150 µg/kg annually, 800 µg/kg annually, 150 µg/kg 3-monthly, and 800 µg/kg annually. Results The mean number of nodules that appeared during the trial was reduced by 17.7% in subjects treated 3-monthly compared to those treated annually (regardless of the dose). Poisson regression model, adjusting on subject’s age and weight, initial number of nodules and intensity of O. volvulus infection in his village of residence, confirmed that the incidence of new nodules was reduced in 3-monthly treatment arms compared to annually treatment arms, and that the dosage of ivermectin does not seem to influence this effect. Besides, the number of newly acquired nodules was positively associated with the initial number of nodules. Analysis of disappearance of nodules did not show any significant difference between the treatment groups. Conclusions Our result suggest, for the first time in humans, that ivermectin has a prophylactic effect on O. volvulus . Three-monthly treatment seems more effective than annual treatment to prevent the appearance of nodules.
Chloroplast phylogenomic analyses resolve multiple origins of the Kengyilia species via independent polyploidization events
Authors: Chen Shi-Yong , Yan Hao , Sha Li-Na , Chen Ning , Zhang Yue , Wang Yi , Kang Hou-Yang , Zhang Hai-Qin , Zhou Yong-Hong , Fan Xing
Published: February 2020

Background Kengyilia is a group of allohexaploid species that arose from two hybridization events followed by genome doubling of three ancestral diploid species with different genomes St, Y and P in the wheat tribe. Estimating phylogenetic relationship in resolution of the maternal lineages has been difficult, owing to the extremely low rate of sequence divergence. Here, phylogenetic reconstructions based on the plastome sequences were used to explore the role of maternal progenitors in establishment of Kengyilia polyploid species.ResultsThe plastome sequences of 11 Kengyilia species were analyzed together with 11 tetraploid species (PP, StP, and StY) and 33 diploid taxa representing 20 basic genomes in the Triticeae. Phylogenomic analysis and genetic divergence patterns suggested that (1) Kengyilia is closely related to Roegneria, Pseudoroegneria, Agropyron, Lophopyrum, Thinopyrum, and Dasypyrum; (2) both the StY genome Roegneria tetraploids and the PP genome Agropyron tetraploids severed as the maternal donor during the speciation of Kengyilia species; (3) the different Kengyilia species derived their StY genome from different Roegneria species.ConclusionMultiple origins of species via independent polyploidization events have occurred in the genus Kengyilia, resulting in a maternal haplotype polymorphism. This helps explain the rich diversity and wide adaptation of polyploid species in the genus Kengyilia.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity Scale Among Iranian Cancer Patients
Authors: Sharif Saeed Pahlevan , Sim Ong Fon , Moshtagh Mozhgan , Naghavi Navaz , Nia Hamid Sharif
Published: February 2020

Objective This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of financial toxicity (COST) scale in a sample of cancer patients in Iran. Methods A total of 398 cancer patients completed a demographic questionnaire and the 11-item Persian COST. Performing a Maximum likelihood exploratory factor analysis, extracted three factors of financial worry (four items), financial distress (three items) and direct and indirect cost of control (three items) accounting for 65.204% of the variance. The highest load was related to financial distress and the lowest was related to direct and indirect costs concerns. Results The results of conducting confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the three-factor measurement model had a good fit. Moreover, the measurement model showed good items consistency, good construct reliability, as well as good construct validity in terms of convergent and discriminant validity. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of validating the scale in different contexts as the structure and loadings of the factors have appeared diffidently in various countries. The validated Persian COST can be used in future studies in Iran as a reliable and valid scale to measure financial toxicity among cancer patients.
Early Exposure to Environment Sounds and the Development of Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials of Preterm Infants During the First Three Months of Life
Authors: Cavalcanti Hannalice Gottschalck , Nunes Aryelly Dayane da Silva , Cunha Brenda Karla Silva da , Alvarenga Kátia de Freitas , Balen Sheila Andreoli , Pereira Antonio
Published: February 2020

ObjectivePrenatal experience influences the course of development of sensory pathways. Preterm infants are exposed earlier than their term counterparts to unattenuated sounds from the external environment during the sensitive period of organization of auditory cortical circuitry. In the current study, we evaluated how gestational age (GA) correlates with the latency of the P1 component of the cortical auditory evoked potential of two experimental groups measured at one or three months of age. Our sample consisted of 23 infants delivered at GA ranging from 31.28-41.42 weeks and separated into two groups evaluated transversally at one or three months of corrected age (CA).ResultsIn the group evaluated at one-month CA, the latency of the component P1 was similar in both term and late-preterm infants (GA>32 weeks). However, in the group evaluated at three months CA, P1 latency was significant smaller in preterms. These preliminary results suggest an acceleration of the development of auditory cortical pathways in preterms, probably due to their early exposure to socially relevant auditory stimuli from the external environment.Keywords: preterm, newborn, brain development, auditory, cortex
Systematic and experimental approaches to indicate anti-tumor biotargets and molecular mechanisms of calycosin against osteosarcoma
Authors: Tan Jiachang , Qin Xiong , Liu Bin , Mo Hao , Wu Zhenjie , Yuan Zhenchao
Published: February 2020

BackgroundCalycosin is reported to pharmacologically combat cancer cells, however, the detailed anti-osteosarcoma (OS) mechanisms remain unclear. By using systemic method of network pharmacology, the present study purposed to reveal the anti-OS biotargets and molecular mechanisms played by calycosin. Moreover, human and animal experiments were used to verify the key biotargets of calycosin combating OS. ResultsIn OS findings, the blood parameters showed increased tumor markers and OS sections resulted in negatively expressed proteins of tumor protein p53 (TP53), Caspase-3 (CASP3), X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein (XIAP). To feature the pharmacological biotargets in a cell line study, calycosin-treated OS cells showed reduced cell proliferation, and promoted cell apoptosis. In TUNEL stains, calycosin resulted in elevated apoptotic cells. As showed in immunostaining, calycosin-treated OS cells suggested elevated TP53, CASP3, XIAP protein expressions. ConclusionsOverall, our present human and cell culture data manifest all candidate and key biotargets, molecular functions and pathways of calycosin combating OS. Attractively, these top biotargets may be used for pharmacological hallmarks to combat OS.