bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of biodegradable polymer membrane on new bone formation and biodegradation of biphasic bone substitutes: an animal mandibular defect model study
Authors: Ku Jeong-Kui , Kim Young-Kyun , Yun Pil-Young
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of biodegradable polycaprolactone membrane on new bone formation and the biodegradation of biphasic alloplastic bone substitutes using animal models.

Materials and methods

In this study, bony defect was formed at the canine mandible of 8 mm in diameter, and the defects were filled with Osteon II. The experimental groups were covered with Osteoguide as barrier membrane, and the control groups were closed without membrane coverage. The proportion of new bone and residual bone graft material was measured histologically and histomorphometrically at postoperative 4 and 8 weeks.

Results

At 4 weeks, the new bone proportion was similar between the groups. The proportion of remaining graft volume was 27.58 ± 6.26 and 20.01 ± 4.68% on control and experimental groups, respectively (P< 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in new bone formation and the amount of residual bone graft material at 8 weeks.

Conclusion

The biopolymer membrane contributes to early biodegradation of biphasic bone substitutes in the jaw defect but it does not affect the bone formation capacity of the bone graft.
Usefulness of electrophysiology in the prediction of outcome of Bell’s palsy patients
Authors: Abdelal Ibrahim Tharwat , Eliwa Enas Abdelkader , Ebaid Amany Mohammad , Abdelfattah Marwa Mohammad
Published: October 2020

Background

Bell’s palsy (BP) is a common idiopathic cranial mononeuropathy. The electrophysiological tests are one of supportive tools for localizing the site of facial nerve lesion, and to determine the severity and prognosis of the injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of electrophysiology in the prediction of outcome of patients with Bell’s palsy. This study was carried out on 30 adult patients with Bell’s palsy. All study subjects were assessed clinically by Sunnybrook facial nerve grading score (SBS) and electrophysiologically by electroneurography (ENoG), blink reflex (BR), and electromyography (EMG); first evaluation was within 7th to10th day from onset, the second evaluation was done at 20th day, and the follow-up visit was after 1 month to assess the clinical grading system (SBS).

Results

At 1 month, 20 patients (66.7%) had good recovery, while 10 patients (33.3%) had poor recovery according to the Sunnybrook scale. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the most significant predictive indicator of BP recovery was ENoG value and R1 latency of BR test. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed ENoG degeneration index of 74.6%, considered as a critical cutoff value of non-recovery, with the sensitivity 95% and specificity 90%, and the highest specificity was with blink reflex parameters (R1, R2 latency) 100%.

Conclusion

BR and ENoG were the best predictors of non-recovery of facial function, while EMG findings did not add any prognostic significance. The combination of both tests BR and ENoG, along with clinical findings can be considered a good indication in the acute phase of BP for the possibility to develop palsy residua.
Innervation of GnRH Neuron Distal Projections and Activation by Kisspeptin in a New GnRH-Cre Rat Model
Authors: Yip Siew Hoong , Campos Pauline , Liu Xinhuai , Porteous Robert , Herbison Allan E
Published: October 2020

The neural mechanisms generating pulsatile GnRH release from the median eminence (ME) remain unclear. Studies undertaken in the mouse demonstrate that GnRH neurons extend projections to the ME that have properties of both dendrites and axons, termed “dendrons,” and that the kisspeptin neuron pulse generator targets these distal dendrons to drive pulsatile GnRH secretion. It presently remains unknown whether the GnRH neuron dendron exists in other species. We report here the generation of a knock-in Gnrh1-Ires-Cre rat line with near-perfect targeting of Cre recombinase to the GnRH neuronal phenotype. More than 90% of adult male and female GnRH neurons express Cre with no ectopic expression. Adeno-associated viruses were used in adult female Gnrh1-Ires-Cre rats to target mCherry or GCAMP6 to rostral preoptic area GnRH neurons. The mCherry tracer revealed the known unipolar and bipolar morphology of GnRH neurons and their principal projection pathways to the external zone of the ME. Synaptophysin-labeling of presynaptic nerve terminals revealed that GnRH neuron distal projections received numerous close appositions as they passed through the arcuate nucleus and into the median eminence. Confocal GCaMP6 imaging in acute horizontal brain slices demonstrated that GnRH neuron distal projections lateral to the median eminence were activated by kisspeptin. These studies indicate the presence of a dendron-like arrangement in the rat with GnRH neuron distal projections receiving synaptic input and responding to kisspeptin.
Central and Peripheral Postexercise Blood Pressure and Vascular Responses in Young Adults with Obesity
Authors: BUNSAWAT KANOKWAN , LEFFERTS ELIZABETH C. , GRIGORIADIS GEORGIOS , WEE SANG OUK , KILIANEK MELISSA M. , FADEL PAUL J. , CLIFFORD PHILIP S. , FERNHALL BO , BAYNARD TRACY
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Adults with obesity are at an increased risk of incident hypertension. Regular aerobic exercise is recommended for the prevention and treatment of hypertension, but whether young adults with obesity exhibit impaired postexercise blood pressure (BP) and vascular responses remains unclear.

Purpose

We tested the hypothesis that young adults with obesity exhibit attenuated postexercise hypotension (PEH) and postexercise peripheral vasodilation compared with young adults without obesity.

Methods

Thirty-six normotensive adults without and with obesity (11 men and 7 women per group) underwent measurements of brachial and central BP, and leg blood flow (Doppler ultrasound) at baseline and at 30, 60, and 90 min after acute 1-h moderate-intensity cycling. Leg vascular conductance (LVC) was calculated as flow/mean arterial pressure.

Results

Both groups exhibited similar brachial and central PEH (peak change from baseline, −2 and −4 mm Hg for brachial and central systolic BPs, respectively, for both groups; time effect, P < 0.05). Both groups also exhibited postexercise peripheral vasodilation, assessed via LVC (time effect, P < 0.05), but its overall magnitude was smaller in young adults with obesity (LVC change from baseline, +47% ± 37%, +29% ± 36%, and +20% ± 29%) compared with young adults without obesity (LVC change from baseline, +88% ± 58%, +59% ± 54%, and +42% ± 51%; group effect, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although obesity did not impair PEH after acute moderate-intensity exercise, young adults with obesity exhibited smaller postexercise peripheral vasodilation compared with young adults without obesity. Collectively, these findings have identified evidence for obesity-induced alterations in the peripheral vasculature after exercise.
AlignmentViewer: Sequence Analysis of Large Protein Families
Authors: Reguant Roc , Antipin Yevgeniy , Sheridan Rob , Dallago Christian , Diamantoukos Drew , Luna Augustin , Sander Chris , Gauthier Nicholas Paul
Published: October 2020

AlignmentViewer is a web-based tool to view and analyze multiple sequence alignments of protein families. The particular strengths of AlignmentViewer include flexible visualization at different scales as well as analysis of conservation patterns and of the distribution of proteins in sequence space. The tool is directly accessible in web browsers without the need for software installation. It can handle protein families with tens of thousands of sequences and is particularly suitable for evolutionary coupling analysis, e.g. via EVcouplings.org.
Eating versus skipping breakfast has no discernible effect on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bohan Brown Michelle M. , Milanes Jillian E. , Allison David B. , Brown Andrew W.
Published: October 2020

Background:Eating or skipping breakfast for weight interests scientific and lay communities. Our objective was to systematically review and meta-analyze causal effects of eating versus skipping breakfast on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes in humans.

Methods:Six databases were searched for obesity- and breakfast-related terms (final search: 02 JAN 2020). Studies needed to isolate eating versus skipping breakfast in randomized controlled trials. Mean differences were synthesized using inverse variance random effects meta-analysis for each outcome. Positive estimates indicate higher outcomes in breakfast conditions (e.g., weight gain). Leave-one-out analysis for sensitivity and a secondary baseline habit-by-breakfast assignment analysis were performed. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results:Ten articles (12 comparisons; 6d to 12wk) were included. Conditions included recommendations to eat versus skip breakfast, or provision of some or all meals. 95% confidence intervals of all main analyses included the null value of no difference for each outcome: body weight (0.17 kg [-0.40,0.73], k=12, n=487, I2=74.5), BMI (0.07 kg/m2[-0.10,0.23, k=8, n=396, I2=54.1), body fat percentage (-0.27% [-1.01,0.47], k=6, n=179, I2=52.4), fat mass (0.24 kg [-0.21,0.69], k=6, n=205, I2=0.0), lean mass (0.18 kg [-0.08,0.44], k=6, n=205, I2=6.7), waist circumference (0.18 cm [-1.77,2.13], k=4, n=102, I2=78.7), waist:hip ratio (0.00 [-0.01,0.01], k=4, n=102, I2=8.0), sagittal abdominal diameter (0.19 cm [-2.35,2.73], k=2, n=56, I2=0.0), and fat mass index (0.00 kg/m2[-0.22,0.23], k=2, n=56, I2=0.0). Subgroup analysis showed only one statistically significant result. The interaction effect for BMI (–0.36[-0.65,-0.07]) indicates assignment to conditions consistent with baseline habits had lower BMI. Leave-one-out analysis did not indicate substantial influence of any one study.

Conclusions:There was no discernible effect of eating or skipping breakfast on obesity-related anthropometric measures when pooling studies with substantial design heterogeneity and sometimes statistical heterogeneity.

Registration:PROSPEROCRD42016033290.
Risk factors for composite adverse outcomes of postpartum haemorrhage, Mpilo Central Hospital, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ngwenya Solwayo
Published: October 2020

Background

Globally, primary postpartum haemorrhage continues to cause considerable maternal morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for composite adverse outcomes of postpartum haemorrhage. The findings could potentially be used to anticipate and prevent composite adverse outcomes of postpartum haemorrhage.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study carried out at Mpilo Central Hospital, a government tertiary referral centre, covering the period 1 July 2016 to 30 November 2019. Participants were included in the study if they had a diagnosis of postpartum haemorrhage. Those variables that had a p<0.2 from the univariate logistic regression analyses were considered for multivariable logistic regression. The association between independent variables and the dependent variable was assessed using odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals, to identify independent risk factors for composite adverse outcomes in PPH. A p< 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.

Results

The independent risk factors for composite adverse outcomes of postpartum haemorrhage were place of dwelling (AOR 4.57, 95% CI 1.87-11.12, p=0.01), prior Caesarean section (AOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.10-6.00, p=0.03), antepartum haemorrhage (AOR 5.45, 95% CI 2.23-13.27, p<0.0001), antenatal haemoglobin level (AOR 19.64, 95% CI 1.44-268.50, p=0.03), and current delivery by Caesarean section (AOR 10.21, 95% CI 4.39-23.74, p<0.0001). 

Blood loss was also an independent risk factor for composite adverse outcomes of postpartum haemorrhage with the following blood loss; 1001-1500ml (AOR 9.94, 95% CI 3.68-26.88, p<0.0001), 500-1000ml (AOR 41.27, 95% CI 11.32-150.54, p<0.0001), and 2001ml (AOR 164.77, 95% CI 31.06-874.25, p<0.0001).

Conclusion

This study found that the independent predictors for composite adverse outcomes of PPH were rural dwelling, prior Caesarean section, antenatal haemoglobin level, current delivery by Caesarean section, and blood loss. In low- and middle-income countries such information could help in increasing clinical vigilance and policy making, and preventing maternal deaths.
Effect of vitamin E supplementation on orthodontic tooth movement in Wistar rats: a prelimary study
Authors: Sufarnap Erliera , Siregar Darmayanti , Lindawati Yumi
Published: October 2020

Background: Tooth movement induced by the application of orthodontic force was initiated by inflammatory process. Studies have shown that vitamin E has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which perhaps could inhibit the tooth to move. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E supplementation on orthodontic tooth movement in Wistar rats.

Methods: Wistar rats (n=56) were divided into two groups. Group 1 served as the control groups, while group 2 was given vitamin E for 14 days before application of orthodontic force. Each group was divided into four subgroups (n=7), corresponding to the number of days orthodontic force lasted, i.e. 0, 1, 3, 7 days. At each of these four time points, distance measurements and quantity of osteoblasts-osteoclasts were measured in each rat.

Results: Tooth movement distance was increased for group 2 than group 1 for all time intervals, but this difference was only statistically different on day 3 (p=0.001). For both groups, tooth movement was significantly different between each time interval in each group (p=0.041). The mean number of osteoblast cells was increased for group 2 compared to group 1 for all time intervals (p<0.05), but was not significant different between time intervals (p=0.897). The number of osteoclasts was not significantly different between groups, but it was statistically different between time intervals (p=0.004).

Conclusion: The outcome of this study demonstrated that group 2  resulted a better tooth movement compared to group 1 on day 3, based on the distance measurement. The osteoclast cell numbers were the same within control groups, whilst  the number of osteoblast cells in group 2 was significantly higher than those in group 1.
Case Report: Complete heart block as a manifestation of cardiac metastasis of oral cancer
Authors: Andrianto Andrianto , Mulia Eka Prasetya Budi , Suwanto Denny , Rachmi Dita Aulia , Yogiarto Mohammad
Published: October 2020

Metastatic tumors of the heart presenting with complete heart block (CHB) is an extremely uncommon case. There are no available guidelines in managing CHB in terminal cancer. Permanent pacemaker implantation in such cases is a challenge in terms of clinical utility and palliative care.

We report a case of a 24-year-old man suffering from tongue cancer presenting with CHB. A intracardiac mass and moderate pericardial effusion were present, presumed as the metastatic tumor of tongue cancer. We implanted a temporary pacemaker for his symptomatic heart block and cardiogenic shock, and pericardiocentesis for his massive pericardial effusion. We decided that a permanent pacemaker would not be implanted based on the low survival rate and significant comorbidities.

Multiple studies report a variable number of cardiac metastasis incidence ranging from 2.3% to 18.3%. It is rare for such malignancies to present with CHB. The decision to implant a permanent pacemaker is highly specific based on the risks and benefits of each patient. It needs to be tailored to the patient’s functional status, comorbid diseases, prognosis, and response to conservative management.
A novel genotyping method to determine copy number in a mouse line commonly used for inducible transgene expression in brain and spinal cord
Authors: Hobbs Eleanor , Ryan Sarah , Rollinson Sara , Allan Stuart , Pickering-Brown Stuart
Published: October 2020

Background: The NEFH-tTA mouse has the human neurofilament heavy polypeptide promoter directing tetracycline-controlled transactivator protein (tTa) expression to the brain and spinal cord, allowing tissue-specific and doxycycline-suppressible expression of a target gene. Current genotyping protocols can only differentiate between wild-type and transgenic animals. Being able to differentiate between hemizygous and homozygous animals would be beneficial in experiment planning and reducing animal numbers.

Methods: We have identified the insertion site of the NEFH-tTA transgene via targeted locus amplification and next-generation sequencing. This was then used to design a multiplex PCR assay to distinguish between hemizygous and homozygous mice.

Results: The NEFH-tTA transgene is located on chromosome 12. Our genotyping method can identify hemizygous and homozygous mice.

Conclusions: The NEFH-tTA transgenic mouse line is a useful tool for studying a wide range of diseases including frontotemporal dementia and motor neuron disease, as well as other neurodevelopmental, neuromuscular or neurodegenerative disorders. We have designed and utilised a novel genotyping assay to distinguish between hemizygous and homozygous mice, involving a simple PCR assay. This is easily adaptable to a laboratory-specific protocol or machine, and will allow refinement of breeding strategies and a reduction in the number of animals that cannot be used in experiments.
TreeSummarizedExperiment: a S4 class for data with hierarchical structure
Authors: Huang Ruizhu , Soneson Charlotte , Ernst Felix G.M. , Rue-Albrecht Kevin C. , Yu Guangchuang , Hicks Stephanie C. , Robinson Mark D.
Published: October 2020

Data organized into hierarchical structures (e.g., phylogenies or cell types) arises in several biological fields. It is therefore of interest to have data containers that store the hierarchical structure together with the biological profile data, and provide functions to easily access or manipulate data at different resolutions. Here, we present TreeSummarizedExperiment, a R/S4 class that extends the commonly used SingleCellExperiment class by incorporating tree representations of rows and/or columns (represented by objects of the phylo class). It follows the convention of the SummarizedExperiment class, while providing links between the assays and the nodes of a tree to allow data manipulation at arbitrary levels of the tree. The package is designed to be extensible, allowing new functions on the tree (phylo) to be contributed. As the work is based on the SingleCellExperiment class and the phylo class, both of which are popular classes used in many R packages, it is expected to be able to interact seamlessly with many other tools.
Retrospective evaluation of two-year results with a filtering trabeculotomy in comparison to conventional trabeculectomy by exact matching
Authors: Strzalkowska Alicja , Strzalkowski Peter , Al Yousef Yousef , Hillenkamp Jost , Grehn Franz , Loewen Nils A.
Published: October 2020

Background: To compare two-year results of a filtering trabeculotomy (FTO) to conventional trabeculectomy (TE) in open-angle glaucoma by exact matching.

Methods: 110 patients received an FTO and 86 a TE. FTO avoided the need for an iridectomy due to a preserved trabeculo-descemet window anterior to the scleral flap. TE employed a trabecular block excision and iridectomy. Mitomycin C was used in both. FTO and TE were exact matched by baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of glaucoma medications. Complete and qualified success (IOP ≤18 mmHg and IOP reduction ≥ 30%, with or without medication) were primary endpoints. IOP, visual acuity (BCVA), complications and intervention were secondary endpoints.

Results: 44 FTO were exact matched to 44 TE. The IOP baseline in both groups was 22.5±4.7 mmHg on 3±0.9 medications. At 24 months, complete success was reached by 59% in FTO and 66% in TE, and qualified success by 59% in FTO and 71% in TE. In FTO, IOP was reduced to 12.4±4.3 mmHg at 12 months and 13.1±4.1 mmHg at 24 months. In TE, IOP was 11.3±2.2 mmHg at 12 months and 12.0±3.5 mmHg at 24 months. Medications could be reduced at 24 months to 0.6±1.3 in FTO and 0.2±0.5 in TE. There were no significant differences between the two groups in IOP, medications, complications or interventions at any point.

Conclusion: Modifying aqueous flow through a limited trabeculotomy in FTO yielded clinical outcomes similar to traditional TE but allowed to avoid an iridectomy.
In vitro evaluation of the anti-diabetic potential of Helichrysum petiolare Hilliard & B.L. Burtt using HepG2 (C3A) and L6 cell lines
Authors: Aladejana Adebowale Emmanuel , Bradley Graeme , Afolayan Anthony Jide
Published: October 2020

Background: Helichrysum petiolare Hilliard & B.L. Burtt has been listed in a survey of plants used in traditional medicine for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. In this study, the antidiabetic potentials of ethanol, cold aqueous (CAQ) and boiled aqueous (BAQ) extracts of H. petiolare were investigated.

Methods: The cytotoxic and glucose utilization effects of the extracts were evaluated using L6 myocytes and HepG2 (C3A) hepatocytes. α-amylase, α-glucosidase and lipase inhibition assays were also carried out.

Results: The ethanol extract showed significant cytotoxic effects in the treated cells. Both BAQ and CAQ extracts significantly increased glucose uptake in L6 and C3A cell lines. The CAQ extract enhanced glucose uptake more in the L6 myocytes than in the C3A cell-lines hepatocytes. The BAQ extract showed higher levels of inhibition on α–amylase and α-glucosidase than CAQ. The activities were not significantly different from acarbose. However, BAQ showed lower lipase inhibition than acarbose (p<0.05).

Conclusions: The BAQ and CAQ extracts of H. petiolare may, therefore, contain pharmacologically active and relatively non-toxic hypoglycaemic chemicals, which may be effective substitutes in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
The discounted value of human lives lost due to COVID-19 in France
Authors: Kirigia Joses Muthuri , Muthuri Rose Nabi Deborah Karimi , Nkanata Lenity Honesty Kainyu , Muthuri Newton Gitonga
Published: October 2020

Background:This study estimates the total discounted value of human lives lost (TDVHL) due to COVID-19 in France as of 14 September 2020.

Methods:The human capital approach (HCA) model was used to estimate the TDVHL of the 30,916 human lives lost due to COVID-19 in France; i.e., assuming a discount rate of 3% and the national average life expectancy at birth of 83.13 years. To test the robustness of the estimated TDVHL, the model was rerun (a) using 5% and 10% discount rates, while holding the French average life expectancy constant; and (b) consecutively substituting national life expectancy with the world average life expectancy of 73.2 years and the world highest life expectancy of 88.17 years. 

Results:The human lives lost had a TDVHL of Int$10,492,290,194, and an average value of Int$339,381 per human life lost. Rerun of the HCA model with 5% and 10% discount rates decreased TDVHL by Int$1,304,764,602 (12.4%) and Int$3,506,938,312 (33%), respectively. Re-calculation of the model with the world average life expectancy decreased the TDVHL by Int$7,750,187,267 (73.87%). Contrastingly, re-estimation of the model with the world’s highest life expectancy augmented TDVHL by Int$3,744,263,463 (35.7%).

Conclusions:The average discounted economic value per human life lost due to COVID-19 of Int$339,381 is 8-fold the France gross domestic product per person. Such evidence constitutes an additional argument for health policy makers when making a case for increased investment to optimise France’s International Health Regulation capacities and coverage of essential health services, and safely managed water and sanitation services.
Shifting dynamics: Changes in the relationship between total fertility rate and contraceptive prevalence rate in Jordan between 2012 and 2017
Authors: Bietsch Kristin , Arbaji Ali , Mason Jennifer , Rosenberg Rebecca , Al Ouri Malak
Published: October 2020

Background: Between the two most recent Population and Family Health Surveys, Jordan saw a dramatic decline in the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) from 3.5 to 2.7 in 5.5 years.  Over the same period, modern contraceptive use also declined, from 61.2% to 51.8% among married women.  This decrease in both TFR and the contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) diverges from the typical relationship seen between these two factors whereby historically as CPR increases, TFR decreases.  This paper explores this unique pattern using multiple methodologies. 

Methods: First, we validate the survey data using nationally collected data on fertility and contraceptive distribution.  Second, we look to changes that have historically influenced changes in CPR and TFR, including changes in ideal family size and wanted fertility rates. Third, we explore proximate determinants and other influences on fertility and changes in contraception, examining the changes in the method mix and unmet need; marriage patterns, including the demographics of the married population, spousal separation, and time since last sex; postpartum insusceptibility; infecundity, both primary and secondary; and abortion, to see if any have shifted significantly enough to allow for fertility to decline with less contraceptive use.

Results: We find that the decline in fertility in Jordan was driven by a reduction in mistimed or unwanted pregnancies and there was a significant increase in the share of reproductive aged women who are infecund. We also concluded that the changes in fertility and contraceptive use are driven by changes in Jordanian nationals, not by the growing Syrian refugee population.

Conclusions: Jordan is not the only country to be experiencing a shift in the typical relationship between CPR and TFR.  Results can inform both future approaches for family planning programs and our expectations regarding what kind of change our family planning investments might buy.
Chloroquine/ hydroxychloroquine prevention of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the healthcare setting; protocol for a randomised, placebo-controlled prophylaxis study (COPCOV)
Authors: Schilling William H.K. , Callery James J. , Taylor Walter , Mukaka Mavuto , Ekkapongpisit Maneerat , Watson James A , Chandna Arjun , Panapipat Salwaluk , Tubprasert Jaruwan , Yuentrakul Prayoon , Waithira Naomi , Cope Tanya , Dhorda Mehul , Cruz Cintia , von Seidlein Lorenz , Milton Joanne , LLewelyn Martin , Adler Amanda , Chotivanich Kesinee , Cheah Phaik Yeong , Ashley Elizabeth A. , Mayxay Mayfong , Dondorp Arjen M. , Phumratanaprapin Weerapong , Day Nicholas P.J. , White Nicholas
Published: October 2020

There is no proven preventative therapy or vaccine against COVID-19. Theinfection has spread rapidly and there has already been a substantial adverse impact on the global economy. Healthcare workers have been affected disproportionately in the continuing pandemic. Significant infection rates in this critical group have resulted in a breakdown of health services in some countries. Chloroquine, and the closely related hydroxychloroquine, are safe and well tolerated medications which can be given for years without adverse effects. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, and despite the lack of benefit of hydroxychloroquine treatment in patients hospitalised with severe COVID-19, these drugs could still work in prevention. The emerging infection paradigm of an early viral peak, and late inflammation where there is benefit from corticosteroids. If these direct actiing antivirals are to work, they have the best chance given either early in infection and before infection occurs. We describe the study protocol for a multi-centre, multi-country randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial to answer the question- can chloroquine/ hydroxychloroquine prevent COVID-19. 40,000 participants working in healthcare facilities or involved in the management of COVID-19 will be randomised 1:1 to receive chloroquine/ hydroxychloroquine or matched placebo as daily prophylaxis for three months. The primary objective is the prevention of symptomatic, virological or serologically proven coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The study could detect a 23% reduction from an incidence of 3% in the placebo group for either drug with 80% power. Secondary objectives are to determine if chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine prophylaxis attenuates severity, prevents asymptomaticCOVID-19 and symptomatic acute respiratory infections of another aetiology (non-SARS-CoV-2).
Overcoming barriers in hallux valgus surgery: an assessment of variation in clinical commissioning in England
Authors: Coffey Duncan , Ahluwalia Raju , Hudson-Phillips Sarah , Clark Calum , Dusu Kent Keli , Gaukroger Andrew , Vig Stella
Published: October 2020

Background/Aims

In 2014, the Royal College of Surgeons expressed concern that a postcode lottery was determining the commissioning of procedures of limited clinical value. The research was carried out to assess whether there is variation in the clinical commissioning of hallux valgus surgery in England.

Methods

The commissioning policies for clinical commissioning groups were identified. Data were analysed to assess both adherence to the British Orthopaedic Association guidelines for surgery and the minimum criteria that a patient must fulfil for surgery.

Results

Variation was recorded in commissioning policies and in the number of criteria a patient must fulfil to be offered surgery.

Conclusions

There is currently no standardised national commissioning policy for hallux valgus surgery. Referral guidelines have been produced by leading national bodies but their implementation is varied. This can lead to variation in referral patterns in England for patients requiring hallux valgus surgery.
Leaders as guardians of culture: how reverse mentoring can improve organisational subcultures
Authors: Raza Ali
Published: October 2020

Culture is often viewed as coming from the very top of an organisation, but local healthcare leaders play a huge role in shaping organisational cultures. Ali Raza explains how reverse mentoring schemes and values-based recruitment can facilitate positive change and raise the standard of healthcare leadership on an organisational level.
Identification of increased risk of pressure damage with a sub-epidermal moisture scanner: clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness
Authors: Budri Aglecia
Published: October 2020

Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers and subsequent interventions are a substantial burden to patients. This article reviews the use of a sub-epidermal moisture (SEM) scanning device as an early and robust method of identifying the increased risk of pressure damage before it is visible on the surface of the skin. This could allow the implementation of early interventions and potentially decrease the frequency of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers.
Revisión narrativa: ¿Laceraciones pretibiales, avulsiones o desgarros cutáneos?
Authors: Henao Carmen E. Ruiz , Gómez Santiago Roviralta
Published: October 2020

Sinopsis:

Las definiciones actuales para los términos “desgarro cutáneo” (skin tear), “laceración” (laceration) y “avulsión cutánea” (skin avulsion) no permiten diferenciar estas heridas de manera clara y evidente, ya que su descripción semiológica adquiere variabilidad de nomenclatura dependiendo de cada autor, como se comprobó a través de la revisión de la literatura médica consultada. En la mayoría de los textos, los tres términos son usados indistintamente para referirse a laceraciones pero, en la práctica clínica, se suelen referir también a avulsiones cutáneas, heridas pretibiales, heridas en colgajo, y desgarros cutáneos, lo cual suele generar confusión.

El objetivo de esta revisión narrativa es proveer una opinión de expertos para llegar a una descripción precisa de dichos términos y evitar, así, confusión en la práctica clínica.
In–Silico Visualization of Gene-Gene Interactions in Autism Spectrum Disorder Genes
Authors: Baruah Abhinob , Singla Kajal , Chapadgaonkar Shilpa S , Rameshwari Rashmi
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACT: Autism spectrum disorder is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with still unknown causative mechanisms. Recent findings implicate a complex etiology with multiple genetic and epigenetic factors. The disruption of vital gene-gene interactions has been proposed to be one of the contributing factors for the disease. NPAS (neuronal PAS domain proteins 1 and 3) have been recognized as critical regulators of neuropsychiatric development and function. In the present study, a genetic network association with NPAS3 and the highest interacting gene CRKL has been mapped for ASD and analyzed to decipher the complex genetic basis of Autism spectrum disorder. CRKL encodes a protein kinase with SH2 and SH3 (SRC homology) domains which activate RAS and Jun signaling pathways. The CRKL gene sequence was retrieved and compared using BLAST homology search. The physiological and chemical features of CRKL protein was studied using Uniprot Database and Protparam followed by homology modelling by constructing a phylogenetic. Physio-chemical properties of CRKL protein was studied by Protparam which gave insight into the role of other interacting proteins involved in this process. Further analysis, a conserved region of intersecting protein of CRKL were identified using multiple sequence alignment. The gene interactions data revealed that CRKL as one of the key genes associated with Autism spectrum disorder. CRKL defects in the deleted region of 22q11. 2 of the human chromosome 22 have a strong correlation with several of the birth defects as it can hamper the development of the brain along with behavior and cognitive function. This may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia, depending on which particular region in the gene is affected. CRKL gene could be a potential biomarker for many In-borne diseases. An investigation in current study was done to find out the genetic network and decipher the complex genetic basis of Autism spectrum disorder.
Wavelet-based method for spectral interferometry filtering
Authors: Contreras-Martinez R. , Aupart-Acosta A. , Rosete-Aguilar M. , Moreno-Larios J. A. , Garduño-Mejía J.
Published: October 2020

In this work, we study the effects of noise present on spectral interferometry signals, for femtosecond pulse retrieval such as in the SPIDER technique (spectral phase interferometry for direct e-field reconstruction). Although previous works report SPIDER robustness, we have found that noisy signals with low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), in the acquired spectral interferogram, could cause variations in the temporal pulse intensity retrieval. We demonstrate that even in a filtered SPIDER signal, following standard procedures, at some point the noise on the spectral interferogram could affect the spectral phase retrieval. As a novel alternative for spectral interferograms filtering, we have applied the wavelet transform and propose a target criterion to automatize the optimization algorithm. We apply this method on SPIDER signals and analyze its effectiveness on the spectral phase retrieval. We present numerical and experimental results to show the improvement in the phase retrieval and the temporal pulse reconstruction after applying this filtering method and compare the results with a standard method.
Frequency-based optimized random phase for computer-generated holographic display
Authors: He Zehao , Sui Xiaomeng , Zhang Hao , Jin Guofan , Cao Liangcai
Published: October 2020

Random phases with all frequency components lead to excessive diffusions of object waves, resulting in loss of detail in holographic reconstructions. In this study, the effects of random phases with various frequencies on holographic reconstruction results are evaluated. The optimized maximal value of the random phases is analyzed. Utilizing the evaluation results, we propose a frequency-based optimized random phase that reduces the unfavorable effect of the insufficient dynamic range of computer-generated holograms and prevents excessive diffusions by traditional random phases. Utilizing the optimized random phase, which improves the reconstruction quality significantly, we can commendably reconstruct both contours and details.
Spectrally resolved polarizing interferometer for single-shot line profiling
Authors: Park Hyo Mi , Kwon Ui Hyeok , Ghim Young-Sik , Joo Ki-Nam
Published: October 2020

In this investigation, we describe a spectrally resolved polarizing interferometer to modify the typical spectrally resolved interferometer based on the Fourier method, which has a dead zone caused by the minimum measurable range. By use of a polarization pixelated CMOS camera, which enables us to obtain spatially phase-shifted spectral interferograms, the spectral phase can be extracted with a single image, and the proposed interferometer can obtain a line profile of a specimen at once. By the nature of phase-shifting technique, moreover, the directions of the measured distances can be identified, and the measuring range is extended to twice that of the typical spectrally resolved interferometer. In the experimental results, the measuring range was 104 µm, and the capability to obtain a line profile of a specimen with a single image was confirmed. For 3D surface profiling, lateral scanning was adopted, and the measurement results were compared with the result of the Fourier method.
Effect of laser pulse shaping on photoacoustic dosimetry in retinal models
Authors: Brown Robert B. , Dufour Suzie , Deladurantaye Pascal , Bouch Nolwenn Le , Gallant Pascal , Méthot Sébastien , Rochette Patrick J. , Mermut Ozzy
Published: October 2020

Photoacoustic sensing can be a powerful technique to obtain real-time feedback of laser energy dose in treatments of biological tissue. However, when laser therapy uses pulses with microsecond duration, they are not optimal for photoacoustic pressure wave generation. This study examines a programmable fiber laser technique using pulse modulation in order to optimize the photoacoustic feedback signal to noise ratio (SNR) in a context where longer laser pulses are employed, such as in selective retinal therapy. We have demonstrated with a homogeneous tissue phantom that this method can yield a greater than seven-fold improvement in SNR over non-modulated square pulses of the same duration and pulse energy. This technique was further investigated for assessment of treatment outcomes in leporine retinal explants by photoacoustic mapping around the cavitation-induced frequency band.
Brightness matching in optical see-through augmented reality
Authors: Murdoch Michael J.
Published: October 2020

A visual experiment using a beam-splitter-based optical see-through
augmented reality (OST-AR) setup tested the effect of the size and
alignment of AR overlays with a brightness-matching task using
physical cubes. Results indicate that more luminance is required when
AR overlays are oversized with respect to the cubes, showing that
observers discount the AR overlay to a greater extent when it is more
obviously a transparent layer. This is not explained by conventional
color appearance modeling but supports an AR-specific model based on
foreground-background discounting. The findings and model will help
determine parameters for creating convincing AR manipulation of
real-world objects.
Solver-informed neural networks for spectrum reconstruction of colloidal quantum dot spectrometers
Authors: Zhang Jinhui , Zhu Xueyu , Bao Jie
Published: October 2020

Recently, the miniature spectrometer based on the optical filter array has received much attention due to its versatility. Among many open challenges, designing efficient and stable algorithms to recover the input spectrum from the raw measurements is the key to success. Of many existing spectrum reconstruction algorithms, regularization-based algorithms have emerged as practical approaches to the spectrum reconstruction problem, but the reconstruction is still challenging due to ill-posedness of the problem. To alleviate this issue, we propose a novel reconstruction method based on a solver-informed neural network (NN). This approach consists of two components: (1) an existing spectrum reconstruction solver to extract the spectral feature from the raw measurements (2) a multilayer perceptron to build a map from the input feature to the spectrum. We investigate the reconstruction performance of the proposed method on a synthetic dataset and a real dataset collected by the colloidal quantum dot (CQD) spectrometer. The results demonstrate the reconstruction accuracy and robustness of the solver-informed NN. In conclusion, the proposed reconstruction method shows excellent potential for spectral recovery of filter-based miniature spectrometers.
Stochastic switching in the Rydberg atomic ensemble
Authors: He Jun , Wang Xin , Wen Xin , Wang Junmin
Published: October 2020

We demonstrated stochastic switching in a bistable system implemented with the Rydberg atomic ensemble, which is realized by cascaded Rydberg excitation in a cesium vapor cell. Measurement of Rydberg state’s population by means of the electromagnetically induced transparency allows us to investigate the nonlinear behavior in Rydberg atomic ensemble experimentally. The transition between the two states of the bistable system is driven by the intensity noise of the laser beams. Rydberg atomic ensemble accumulates energy in an equilibrium situation and brings the nonlinear system across the threshold, where stochastic switching occurs between the two states.
High-resolution microscopy through optically opaque media using ultrafast photoacoustics
Authors: Antoncecchi Alessandro , Zhang Hao , Edward Stephen , Verrina Vanessa , Planken Paul C. M. , Witte Stefan
Published: October 2020

We present a high-resolution microscope capable of imaging buried structures through optically opaque materials with micrometer transverse resolution and a nanometer-scale depth sensitivity. The ability to image through such materials is made possible by the use of laser ultrasonic techniques, where an ultrafast laser pulse launches acoustic waves inside an opaque layer and subsequent acoustic echoes from buried interfaces are detected optically by a time-delayed probe pulse. We show that the high frequency of the generated ultrasound waves enables imaging with a transverse resolution only limited by the optical detection system. We present the imaging system and signal analysis and demonstrate its imaging capability on complex microstructured objects through 200 nm thick metal layers and gratings through 500 nm thickness. Furthermore, we characterize the obtained imaging performance, achieving a diffraction-limited transverse resolution of 1.2 μm and a depth sensitivity better than 10 nm.
Theory of HOM interference on coupled waveguides
Authors: Makarov Dmitry N.
Published: October 2020

It is well known that the Hong–Ou–Mandel (HOM) effect can be realized on beam splitters (BSs) in the form of coupled waveguides. It is believed that in this case, the theory is similar to HOM interference on conventional BSs. In this work, it is shown that if a BS is used in the form of a coupled waveguide, the theory of HOM interference can differ significantly from the known one. It is shown that even in the case of completely identical photons, the visibility of

V

can essentially differ from unity. The developed theory must be taken into account in quantum optical schemes, where BSs are represented mainly as coupled waveguides.
Mesenchyme-derived IGF2 is a major paracrine regulator of pancreatic growth and function
Authors: Hammerle Constanze M. , Sandovici Ionel , Brierley Gemma V. , Smith Nicola M. , Zimmer Warren E. , Zvetkova Ilona , Prosser Haydn M. , Sekita Yoichi , Lam Brian Y. H. , Ma Marcella , Cooper Wendy N. , Vidal-Puig Antonio , Ozanne Susan E. , Medina-Gómez Gema , Constância Miguel
Published: October 2020

The genetic mechanisms that determine the size of the adult pancreas are poorly understood. Imprinted genes, which are expressed in a parent-of-origin-specific manner, are known to have important roles in development, growth and metabolism. However, our knowledge regarding their roles in the control of pancreatic growth and function remains limited. Here we show that many imprinted genes are highly expressed in pancreatic mesenchyme-derived cells and explore the role of the paternally-expressed insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2) gene in mesenchymal and epithelial pancreatic lineages using a newly developed conditionalIgf2mouse model. Mesenchyme-specificIgf2deletion results in acinar and beta-cell hypoplasia, postnatal whole-body growth restriction and maternal glucose intolerance during pregnancy, suggesting that the mesenchyme is a developmental reservoir of IGF2 used for paracrine signalling. The unique actions of mesenchymal IGF2 are demonstrated by the absence of any discernible growth or functional phenotypes uponIgf2deletion in the developing pancreatic epithelium. Additionally, increased IGF2 levels specifically in the mesenchyme, through conditionalIgf2loss-of-imprinting orIgf2rdeletion, leads to pancreatic acinar overgrowth. Furthermore,ex-vivoexposure of primary acinar cells to exogenous IGF2 activates AKT, a key signalling node, and increases their number and amylase production. Based on these findings, we propose that mesenchymalIgf2, and perhaps other imprinted genes, are key developmental regulators of adult pancreas size and function.
The History of Science in Latin America in its own terms
Authors: Barros da Silva Marcia Regina
Published: October 2020

This article conducts a comparative analysis of two journals: Quipu, created in 1984 by the Latin American Society for the History of Sciences and Technology in Mexico, published until 1994 and shortly relived between 1999 and 2000, and the Brazilian History of Science Journal, published since 1985 by the Brazilian Society for the History of Science and Technology.

Both journals initiated in a period of major historiographical change. They gave shape to a set of historical arguments about the qualities and specificities of Latin American techniques and technologies and both contributed to the structuring of an epistemic community in the field.
Higiene pública e privada na Idade Média
Authors: Campos Maria Amélia Álvaro de
Published: October 2020

Este artigo estuda as estruturas com funções sanitárias, existentes na cidade de Coimbra, entre os séculos xii e xv – designadas na documentação pelos vocábulos tristega, cagatório, latrina e privada. Ao analisar um aspeto tão específico da cidade como este, o artigo assume-se como uma contribuição para a historiografia da vida privada e da vida quotidiana, no Portugal medieval, e para o conhecimento do funcionamento do poder concelhio e das suas funções de gestão do espaço público. Este estudo de caso é devidamente enquadrado com o que se conhece para outras cidades nacionais e internacionais e, tratando-se de um assunto para o qual se coligem poucas fontes escritas e materiais, o artigo incorpora um apêndice documental.
A construção do crime na imprensa (Lisboa, 1892)
Authors: Vaz Maria João Mendes
Published: October 2020

Este artigo analisa a forma como o crime foi representado na imprensa lisboeta no final do século xix. Num período de afirmação da moderna imprensa escrita, em que os jornais eram importantes fontes de informação e de conhecimento para uma parte considerável da população, o noticiário sobre o crime passou a ter um lugar constante e de destaque nos jornais, em particular no quotidiano de Lisboa com maior tiragem, o Diário de Notícias. Partindo do levantamento exaustivo das notícias referentes à criminalidade publicadas neste jornal ao longo do ano de 1892, procura-se aqui definir os contornos da construção e representação do crime e dos infratores neste jornal. O tratamento dispensado aos casos de crime que noticiou, o que se disse e o que se omitiu, os comentários e considerações que foram desenvolvidos à volta dos acontecimentos noticiados, foram elementos que influenciaram a vasta comunidade de leitores deste jornal, colaborando para a definição das suas perceções sobre de onde vinha o perigo de atentados à segurança, ordem e tranquilidade gerais.