bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Mismatches in the Multicultural Science Classroom
Authors: Joshi Rajendra , Brantuo Maame Adwoa , Schutt Elizabeth , Fynewever Herb
Published: February 2021

The student body in university science classrooms is increasingly diverse demographically (NCES, 1995; 2015); and this change brings with it an increased chance of mismatch between professor’s expectations and students’ behaviors. Being aware of how cultural expectations influence teaching and learning is the first step in understanding and overcoming these mismatches in order to help all students succeed. Drawing from published research as well as interview and survey data, we highlight ways for professors to create an atmosphere of belonging (Walton & Cohen, 2011) and an appreciation of people from all cultures (Museus et al., 2017).
A Dream Deferred?
Authors: Smith Andrea
Published: February 2021

The history of education in the United States abounds with double themes and purposes for education: schooling for democratic citizenship and schooling for second-class citizenship. Conceived as a means for great equalization, history echoes the intense disapproval of formal education for African Americans since the conception of the United States. The article places the discussion against the larger backdrop of national events within a political, cultural, and economic context. It further offers fresh insights into the African American commitment to education as they persisted in their struggle to develop an educational system in accordance with their own needs and desires with the hope that their work would transcend generations to come.
Preliminary Investigation of Efforts to Improve Awareness of Racial Microaggressions on Campus
Authors: Banks Brea , Adams David , Williams Cedric , Pina Dakesa
Published: February 2021

Exposure to racial microaggressions negatively impacts the well-being of people of color. Researchers examined responses to a bystander workshop implemented to combat racial microaggressions at a Predominantly White Institution. Participants attended training sessions and completed several surveys prior to and after the workshop for 7 weeks. Results indicate that participants obtained and maintained knowledge presented during the bystander workshop. Significant differences for gender and racial status were identified surrounding the degree to which participants reported observing microaggressions on campus throughout the 7 weeks of the study. Data also indicate that colorblind racial attitudes predicted participant satisfaction with the program, as well as an underrepresented racial identity. Implications and future directions for research are discussed.
The Meaning of Video Gameplay
Authors: Bayeck Rebecca Y.
Published: February 2021

Reseaech  on African immigrant students video gameplay is still in its infancy . Yet,  the popularity of video games among college students in the United States suggest that African immigrant students may be video game players. This paper explores the video gameplay of three Black African immigrant students at an institution of higher education. This  study draws on research on immigrants use of media and on video game literature to  analyze the participants ‘experiences. This exploratory qualitative case study of three Black African immigrant students uses semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection technique. The findings show that gameplay was a means to adjust to the new environment, a way to preserve identity, and ensure cultural continuity.
The Impact of Expenditures and Financial Aid on Racial Gaps in Institutional Graduation Rates in the U.S.
Authors: Myers Scott M. , Myers Carrie B.
Published: February 2021

There is a persistent gap in institutional-level graduation rates between U.S. Whites and underrepresented minorities (URM). This gap remains as graduation rates have increased for both Whites and URM. We tested whether these six-year graduation rate gaps among incoming undergraduate freshman cohorts were a function of institutional expenditures and financial aid. Our results were mixed. The gaps were much wider at institutions that spent more on academic and student services and who enrolled cohorts with higher average student loan amounts. Yet, these gaps between Whites and URM narrowed at institutions where students had larger average institutional and state/local grants. Our discussion centered on the changing financial context of higher education and the contributing roles of capital and institutional racial climate.
The Role of Academic Self-Confidence on Thriving among International College Students in the U.S. and Canada
Authors: Jones Alexander , Kim Young
Published: February 2021

Set in the context of four-year colleges and universities in the United States and Canada, this study examined how the level of thriving differs for international students and their domestic peers, how the level of thriving differs across various subgroups within international students, and how academic self-confidence is associated with the level of thriving for international students. Using data from the 2017 Thriving Quotient, this study found that international students were less likely to thrive during their college years than their domestic peers and that Asian international students were less likely to thrive than their international peers of other racial groups. Findings also suggested that academic self-confidence was significantly and positively related to international students’ thriving during their college years.
Exploring Perceptions of Effective Leadership Practices of Presidents of Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Authors: Freeman Jr. Sydney , Palmer Robert
Published: February 2021

Anchored in the anti-deficit approach, this manuscript investigated perceptions of effective leadership practices of presidents at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This manuscript provides a unique contribution to the literature by utilizing a general qualitative research approach to learn from a diverse set of voices of leaders and scholars within this sector that serve in various roles (e.g., Deans, Vice Presidents, and scholars) or who study leadership at these institutions. The study found that effective leaders at HBCUs generally have success across two categories — experiential skills and professional knowledge. This study adds to the paucity of literature in this area by expanding and complicating our understanding of effective leadership practices of presidents at HBCUs.
Available but Not Approachable: Black Business Students’ Interactions with Faculty at a Historically White Institution
Authors: Allen Monica E , Dika Sandra L.
Published: February 2021

Persistent racial inequities in educational attainment and employment negatively affect the economic mobility of the Black population in the United States. Among college graduates, Black people are underrepresented in most high-paying college majors, except for business. In this phenomenological study framed by Critical Race Theory, Black business students (n=10) at a Historically White Institution shared their perceptions of the climate and experiences of interactions with faculty. Students reported they often felt unwelcome and othered in the White-dominated space and received limited support from White faculty that were frequently “available but not approachable”. Future research and practice should focus on institutional strategies to address racism by developing an equitable and welcoming business school culture and fostering cultural competence of faculty.
Productive parameters and carcass yield of rabbits supplemented with Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit., and Guazima ulmifolia Lam. foliage
Authors: Candelaria-Martinez Bernardino , Chiquini-Medina Ricardo A. , Angulo-Balán Ofelia G. , Ramírez-Bautista Marco A. , Cuervo-Osorio Víctor D. , Quetz-Aguirre Elvira M. , FLOTA BAÑUELOS CAROLINA
Published: February 2021

Objective: To determine the effect of the addition of Leucaena leucocephala andGuazima ulmifolia foliage on the production parameters and carcass yield of NewZealand rabbits.Desing/methodology/approach: 30 rabbits (15 females and 15 males) of the NewZealand breed were used, distributed in three treatments (five females and five males),which consisted in feeding 200 g of concentrated food per day + 100 g of fresh L.leucocephala or G. ulmifolia foliage, and a control group with no supplementation.Results: The total voluntary intake was not affected by the treatments or gender of therabbits; an average value of 158.9 g day -1 was recorded. Weight gain was 27.2 g day -1on average. The average slaughter weight of the rabbits was 2523 g. The carcassweight was 1,297 g and the average carcass yield was 51.6%. The dissectable fat 2content was lower in rabbits on supplements (F = 6.70, P = 0.001) with values of 1.6, 1.8and 2.11% with fresh foliage of G. ulmifolia, L. leucocephala and withoutsupplementation, this variable was not affected by gender. The viscera proportion wason average 24.3%. The average meat: bone ratio was 5.6.Limitations on study/implications: It was not possible to carry out bromatologicalanalyzes of the foliages or their digestibility.Fingings/conclusions: Supplementation of rabbits with foliage of G. ulmifolia and L.leucocephala decreases the proportion of dissectable fat and did not affect theproduction parameters and carcass yield.
Characterization of Sheep Farming in Agroecosystems of Indigenous Communities in Campeche, Mexico
Authors: Perez Bautista Jose De Jesus , Pérez Hernández Ponciano , López ortíz Silvia , Candelaria Martínez Bernardino , Chiquini Medina Ricardo Antonio
Published: February 2021

Objective: To characterize sheep farming in agroecosystems of indigenous producerswho received financing from the National Commission for the Development ofIndigenous Peoples (Comisión Nacional para el Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas,CDI) in Campeche, Mexico.Design/Methodology/Approach: A questionnaire was designed with socioeconomicand technical characteristics and was applied to n=199 producers grouped into 27 sheepfarming units, distributed among seven municipalities of Campeche.Results: Sheep farming in the evaluated communities is characterized by extensivegrazing, a low technology level, lack of infrastructure, and high participation of women ofproductive age that are available to learn and implement innovations and technologies.The production system is traditional and focused on repopulating flocks, which are ameans of savings and auto-consumption, without productive and reproductive records.Producers are willing to implement strategies that contribute to improving their farmingunits.Study Limitations/Implications: Support policies, as well as capacity-building plans,should distinguish between indigenous and traditional sheep farming.Findings/Conclusions: The sheep farming units have inadequate infrastructure for flockmanagement, they demonstrate limited knowledge for their adequate management,there are no control records, and they are classified as a traditional farming system.Key words: Sheep, breeds, indigenous production units.
Cattle Grazing Exclusion Increases Basal, Crown and Mulch Cover in the Sierra de Órganos National Park, Sombrerete, Zacatecas, Mexico
Authors: Valdez-Cepeda Ricardo David , Blanco-Macías Fidel , Ruiz-Garduño Raúl René , Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael , Márquez-Madrid Miguel
Published: February 2021

Objective: To estimate the effects of cattle grazing exclusion on soil and vegetation conditions in grasslands of Sierra de Órganos National Park (SONP), Sombrerete, Zacatecas, Mexico.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Four transects with cattle grazing exclusion were strategically established in SONP grasslands. In each transect the basal, crown and organic mulch cover, soil cover, bare soil, and the form of the autumn plant were measured from 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014.
Results: Cattle grazing exclusion caused an increase in basal, crown and organic mulch cover, soil cover, as well as over- rested plants and deteriorated plants; bare soil cover and the percentage of normal plants decreased.
Study Limitations/Implications: Increase of organic mulch cover implies the accumulation of combustible material that represents a potential risk of fire occurring in the SONP.
Findings/Conclusions: Increase of organic mulch, over-rested plants and deteriorated plants shows that SONP grasslandsare transiting to a less stable ecological state.
Quality Seal for Artisanal Chorizo in Valle de Toluca: Keys to Obtaining a Collective Brand
Authors: Ovando-Flores Huitzilihuitl , Thomé-Ortiz Humberto
Published: February 2021

Objective: To identify the socioeconomic and cultural conditions necessary for obtaininga quality seal for artisanal chorizo in Valle de Toluca, Mexico.Methodological Design: A qualitative approach was made from the perspective ofLocalized Agrifood Systems, for the analysis of an artisanal food. The participativeapproach, observation, and semi-structured interviews were useful tools to carry out theresearch.Results: Valle de Toluca has a traditional food that identifies it, as is the case of chorizoin its red and green versions, around which there is the possibility of implementing aquality seal for its differentiation and protection.Limitations: The study was limited to the work carried out with the chorizo producersbelonging to Valle de Toluca; in this sense it is necessary to assess the implementationof a differentiating seal for a traditional food which faces disloyal competition, both fromthe producers’ trade union and from the food industry, consisting in the elaboration ofgeneric products that have the same name, although their quality is not the same.Conclusions: It is necessary to develop a participative and territorial perspective.
The Research of Thermaland Chemical Treatment Methods Influence on Sorption Properties of Peat Materials
Authors:   National University of Oil and Gas «Gubkin University», Smirnova T. S. , Shirokov V. A. ,   National University of Oil and Gas «Gubkin University», Zaporozhskaya A. A. ,   National University of Oil and Gas «Gubkin University»
Published: February 2021

The article is about of the processing of peat material from different Russian regions as an environmental-friendly andan available sorbentsfor the oil spill response. The paper presents the results of peat materials research. Peat materialswere processed by thermal and chemical methods. Oil intensity, adsorption activity and hydrophobicity were investigatedas indicators of the processing efficiency. The dataanalysis obtained with the interpretation of the results and prospects for further work in this wayare given in the article.
Clusterização do perfil de adolescentes escolares com predisposição ao uso de substância psicoativas
Authors: Martins Dayane Diniz , Lucena Laís Balla , Damasceno Athos Ricardo Moraes Bastos , Siqueira Hugo , Tadano Yara de Souza , Caldas Ivete Furtado Ribeiro
Published: February 2021

A adolescência é um período de transformações neurobiológicas e comportamentais. O desenvolvimento moral (DM), ainda em amadurecimento nesta fase, é importante na tomada de decisão, como o uso ou não de SPA. Objetiva-se aplicar algoritmos de clusterização para agrupamento de perfil de adolescentes escolares com tendência ao uso de SPAs, baseado nos fatores socioenonômicos e no nível de DM. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com amostra por conveniência. Participaram do estudo 100 adolescentes, entre 12 a 18 anos, de ambos os sexos e regularmente matriculados no ensino médio. Foram utilizados o questionário socioeconômico, CRAFFT/CESARE (acrônimo de Car; Relax; Alone; Forget; Family/Friends; Trouble) e o teste de competência moral. Foi utilizado o método de clusterização para análise de dados. Quanto aos resultados encontrados, foi verificado que onze (11.0%) apresentam risco para o uso, abuso ou dependência de SPAs, 6.0%, suspeita de dependência de SPAs e 2.0%, risco de dependência de SPAs. No dilema do médico, houve predomínio dos estágio 1 e 2, do juiz, 5 e 6 e operário, 4 e 5. O método Fuzzy C-Means mostrou-se mais adequado, com alta correlação com as respostas fornecidas pelo teste CRAFFT/CESARE. Portanto, os métodos de clusterização apresentam resultados com valores próximos aos obtidos pelo teste CRAFFT/ CESARE quanto ao perfil de adolescentes escolares com predisposição ao uso de SPAs, contribuindo na relação dos fatores determinantes na tomada de decisão nessa etapa da vida.
Sexualidade e Religiosidade: uma revisão integrativa de literatura
Authors: Cortes Helena Moraes , Morais Andréia Vanessa Carneiro de , Lacerda Luanna Carolyne Silva de , Santos Renata Oliveira , Pinho Paula Hayasi
Published: February 2021

A influência da religião nas práticas sexuais humanas tem sido estudada ao longo dos anos. Objetivou-se conhecer a produção científica nacional e internacional acerca da relação entre sexualidade e religiosidade de 2012 a 2017. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura. Utilizou-se as bases de dados Scielo, Pubmed e BVS. 167 artigos foram encontrados, sendo 40 selecionados seguindo as recomendações da estratégia Prisma. Os resultados apontaram 3 categorias temáticas, a saber: a religiosidade como fator de risco ou proteção na sexualidade durante o processo saúde/doença, a religiosidade e a sexualidade no ciclo vital e em grupos populacionais, e a religiosidade e a sexualidade na prevenção de HIV/AIDS. Concluiu-se que a religião pode interferir no processo saúde-doença; estudá-la é necessário para a compreensão do indivíduo em diversas esferas e para que propostas de intervenções possam ser implementadas de acordo com as necessidades do sujeito.
Use of the Free Gingival Grafting Technique for soft tissue reconstruction after excision of a Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma
Authors: Araujo Nathália Januario de , Franco Lara Brandão Ribeiro , Delanora Leonardo Alan , Barra Ruan Henrique Delmonica , Almeida Juliano Milanezi de
Published: February 2021

The Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma is a benign tumor that develops from a hyperplastic tissue reaction, usually related to traumatic stimulus that are responsible for triggering inflammatory reactions of the connective tissue. Histologically, it is a nodular mass characterized by a dense connective tissue, surrounded by stratified squamous epithelium. Surgical removal in these cases is indicated, and for reconstruction of soft tissue in the region, some periodontal surgical techniques are recommended, such as free gingival grafting. Thus, the present study aims to report a clinical case submitted to the free gingival graft technique for tissue reconstruction after the surgical removal of a fibroma. A total excision of the lesion was performed, later sent to a histopathological report where it was diagnosed as Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma, after the removal of the lesion the region was left with the periosteum exposed and then the free gingival graft was performed to cover the region and promote keratinized gum augmentation. This technique proved to be efficient for reconstruction of soft tissue in the region after surgical removal of the Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma, returning aesthetics, function and periodontal health.
Isolamento e caracterização morfológica de Acanthamoeba spp em caixas de água de edifícios residenciais
Authors: Orozco Victoria Ramírez , García Noriel Alexis García , Torres Sandra Mónica Estupiñán , Orozco Daniel Leonardo , Teles Gilberto Henrique , Amorim Luciclaudio Cassimiro de , Silva Ricardo Sérgio da
Published: February 2021

Acanthamoeba spp um dos gêneros que conforma o grupo das amebas de vida livre é o agente causal da ceratite amebiana e encefalite granulomatosa, doenças associadas ao uso das lentes de contato, deficiência na higiene pessoal e exposição a água contaminada. O objetivo desse trabalho foi isolar formas evolutivas de Acanthamoeba spp na água de consumo em um condomínio residencial no bairro as Nieves da cidade de Bogotá, Colômbia. Foram coletadas dez amostras no total, a técnica empregada foi a filtração por membrana e o cultivo no meio agar não nutritivo com uma suspenção de Escherichia coli para garantir o desenvolvimento da ameba. Como controle positivo foi usada uma cepa de Acanthamoeba spp e controle negativo água destilada estéril. As características morfológicas e tamanho das formas evolutivas foram determinadas por microscopia convencional facilitando a classificação nos grupos descritos por Pussard e Pons. De uma amostra foram identificados 5 trofozoítos e 6 cistos correspondentes aos grupos II e III respetivamente, indicando a presencia de várias espécies de Acanthamoeba. A amostra positiva corresponde a uma caixa que nunca foi feita a limpeza, o que foi confirmado pelo administrador do condomínio, infringindo com as normativas de saneamento das caixas de água para consumo. Concluindo que as más condições sanitárias favorecem o desenvolvimento dessa ameba e faz-se necessária a identificação das espécies junto com o genótipo para correlacionar a capacidade infecciosa.
Análise de desempenho da atenção odontológica especializada em rede de cuidados à pessoa com necessidades especiais
Authors: Couto Graziane Ribeiro , Santos Marcos Antônio Lima dos , Oliveira Lívia Santos Cisneiros de , Paiva Saul Martins de , Fonseca Emílio Prado da , Amaral Regiane Cristina do
Published: February 2021

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar o desempenho da atenção odontológica especializada nos Pacientes com Necessidades Especiais (PNE) atendidos no Centro de Especialidades Odontológicas (CEO) de Aracaju, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, observacional e analítico em que a coleta dos dados foi feita a partir dos prontuários dos PNE atendidos no CEO nos anos de 2017 até 2019. Foram avaliadas as produções ambulatoriais realizadas nos PNE nos anos de 2018 e 2019 através de informações cadastradas no Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde (DATASUS) por meio do aplicativo de domínio público TABNET e comparadas com a meta preconizada pela Portaria nº 1.464 de 24 de junho de 2011 do Gabinete do Ministro (GM) / Ministério da Saúde (MS).  Foram avaliados 218 prontuários, sendo encontrado o registro de 23,4% dos pacientes com o diagnóstico de distúrbios comportamentais, observando-se que em 86 prontuários houve o registro de atividade de educação em saúde bucal, incluindo escovação supervisionada nos PNE, 10% dos atendimentos foram exodontia e 62% dos que procuravam o serviço era via referenciamento. Quanto às produções registradas no DATASUS verificou-se no ano de 2018, que em 3 meses não conseguiram atingir a meta preconizadas pelo MS e para o ano de 2019, 8 meses ficaram abaixo do preconizado. Os resultados demonstram desempenho insatisfatório do cumprimento global das metas, no que concerne ao registro da produção realizada nos PNE do CEO Aracaju, sendo assim é necessário regularizar os atendimentos mensais desses pacientes, tendo como parâmetro a Portaria 1.464 GM/MS.
Unidade de Ensino Potencialmente Significativa com enfoque CTS para abordar o tema da “Extração Mineral”
Authors: Trento Elisandra , Locatelli Aline , Darroz Luiz Marcelo
Published: February 2021

Com intuito de implementar propostas didáticas que despertem o interesse e facilitem a aprendizagem de conceitos químicos nos estudantes do ensino médio, o presente estudo objetiva analisar a pertinência de trabalhar os conteúdos de soluções e oxirredução organizados na forma de uma Unidade de Ensino Potencialmente Significativa (UEPS) com enfoque Ciência-Tecnologia-Sociedade (CTS) a partir da temática da “extração mineral” no Brasil. O principal aporte teórico utilizado foi a Teoria da Aprendizagem Significativa de David Ausubel, complementada com as contribuições de Marco Antonio Moreira por meio das UEPS. O trabalho foi norteado pelos questionamentos: em que medida a UEPS se mostra uma metodologia que permite a abordagem de temáticas com enfoque CTS? Como os estudantes reagem perante intervenções didáticas envolvidas por situações-problema? A pesquisa realizada caracteriza-se como qualitativa, participante, estruturando sua coleta de dados em dois instrumentos: diário de bordo do pesquisador e nos materiais confeccionados pelos estudantes. Tal estudo foi realizado em uma escola pública da rede estadual de ensino no município de Marau, RS, com doze estudantes do segundo ano do ensino médio. Os resultados do estudo indicam a potencialidade da proposta, principalmente por despertar a participação, curiosidade e interesse dos estudantes. Incluir o resumo.
A dialogicidade enquanto prática educativa na formação de discentes
Authors: Santos Jamila Hunára da Silva , Moraes Ana Cristina de , Oliveira Georgia Tath Lima de
Published: February 2021

Neste artigo, discutimos sobre as possibilidades da dialogicidade como elemento epistemológico, político e pedagógico de forma a pensar o desenvolvimento do senso crítico e humano. Entendemos que, ao propiciar momentos reflexivos, o docente pode ampliar as perspectivas de ensino e de aprendizagem, permitindo que o sujeito se aproprie de ferramentas para desvelar possibilidades de atuação no mundo. Desse modo, partimos aqui da seguinte questão norteadora: Qual é o lugar da dialogicidade enquanto elemento epistemológico, político e pedagógico no ensino e na aprendizagem de discentes? E das seguintes questões secundárias: de que modo podemos pensá-la como prática educativa para o desenvolvimento do senso crítico e o aperfeiçoamento humano? Como os discentes pensam a dialogicidade na aprendizagem? Este trabalho é fruto das reflexões advindas de uma atividade proposta por nós com a temática Psicologando: a cultura e suas interfaces a partir da fotografia, realizada nos cursos de Psicologia, Recursos Humanos, Marketing e Análise de Desenvolvimento de Sistemas. Ressaltamos que este estudo enfoca a vivência que essa atividade proporcionou aos alunos, trazendo as percepções dos discentes do primeiro semestre do curso de Psicologia, em uma instituição de Ensino Superior privada localizada no município de Maracanaú-CE, durante o semestre 2019.2. Entendemos que essa atividade permitiu refletir sobre o processo de ensino e aprendizagem, de modo a perceber sua importância e perspectivas, a partir da práxis e do olhar dos alunos, problematizando a dialogicidade na prática educativa e suas contribuições para a formação dos discentes.
Tocilizumab‑induced anaphylaxis in two patients with COVID‐19‐induced cytokine storm
Authors: Atayık Emel , Aytekin Gökhan
Published: February 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a zoonotic virus which was first discovered in Wuhan, the People’s Republic of China in December 2019 and has led to one of the greatest pandemics of world history in a short period of time. SARS-CoV-2 is a rapidly spreading infectious disease with a high mortality rate. The disease has a moderate and severe course in approximately 20% of the patients and mortality reaches up to 62% among these patients . The majority of the patients develop SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia and manifestations of pneumonia rapidly progress to respiratory failure. The treatment of COVID‐19‐induced cytokine storm is not definitive, several pharmacological agents have been tried and used. Tocilizumab (TCZ) is a promising agent that is used for the treatment of cytokine storm. TCZ is an IgG1 class recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody against interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor [4].However, potential IgE-mediated immunological reactions against this drug, especially anaphylaxis, may deprive these patients of an important treatment option for the treatment of COVID-19-induced cytokine storm. Although TCZ-induced anaphylaxis has been reported in the literature as case reports of indicated rheumatic diseases, TCZ-induced anaphylaxis has not yet been reported in patients using TCZ for PCR positive COVID‐19‐induced cytokine storms. In this case series, we aimed to represent cases of anaphylaxis which developed in two different patients using TCZ for COVID-19-induced cytokine storm.
“FROG-LEGGED TRAUMA PATIENT”. BILATERAL ANTERIOR HIP DISLOCATION.
Authors: Hamzah Faızal Amrı , Onn Mastura
Published: February 2021

Anterior hip dislocation is rare (10-15% occurrence) compared with posterior dislocation. Bilateral simultaneous anterior hip dislocation is even extremely rare. Most of the previously reported case were either a unilateral or combination of anterior and posterior dislocation. We present a case of bilateral anterior hip dislocation post motor vehicle accident. Patient brought in the Emergency Department in “frog-legged” posture, unable to straighten the lower limbs. Even the Pre-Hospital Care (PHC) team had a tough time to load the patient onto the ambulance stretcher. On examination, both lower limbs were held in abduction, external rotation and in flexion position. Neurovascular assessments were intact. Pelvic x-ray shows bilateral anterior hip dislocation, right iliac bone fracture and left greater trochanteric femur fracture. Closed manual reduction of both hip were performed under procedural sedation analgesia. CECT pelvic done later confirmed right iliac bone fracture extending to and comminuted fracture of the left greater trochanteric. Bilateral avascular necrosis of both femoral head was also noted. Traumatic hip dislocations are a true orthopedic emergency. Early reduction (within 6 hours) is required as soon as appropriate x-rays have been obtained to exclude associated injuries since avascular necrosis of the femoral head increases in direct proportion to delay in reduction. If this fails, closed reduction under general anesthesia is indicated.
Trajectories Matching for Characterizing Patient’s Behavior in Policy Evaluation
Authors: Lin Chaohsin , Hsu Shuofen , Yan Yu-Hua
Published: February 2021

Background: Economic theory and earlier empirical evidence suggest that patients will use fewer health services when they have to pay more for them. However, that copayment had little or no effect on visits to physicians.

Objectives: This study exploits a natural experiment in Taiwan to estimate the effect of an increase in copayment on the demand for physician services and prescription drugs across the different dimensions of age, illness severity and patient behavior.

Methods: Data were taken from the National Health Research Institute (NHRI) in Taiwan for the period of 1998 to 2000 and contained enrollment and claims files from a randomly chosen 0.2% of Taiwan’s population. The deletion of observations with missing values for any of the dependent or independent variables resulted in a final sample size of 69 768 individuals. The basic empirical strategy is to pool the data over the two years in question and estimate the effects of the reform by comparing the expected number of visits before and after the reform. We explored several alternatives stratifying the treatment in order to improve the quality of the identification.

Results: We found that the reduction in visits was rather conservative with the DD estimates ranging from -0.08 to -0.17 compared to the estimate of -0.38 without stratification. The reform effect will most likely be exaggerated if the unobserved heterogeneity of the individual, such as health status and behavior, is not considered in the model.
Expression, Characterization and Its Deinking Potential of a Thermostable Xylanase From Planomicrobium glaciei CHR43
Authors: Liu Zhaoxing , Shao Tingting , Li Yan , Wu Bin , Jia Honghua , Hao Ning
Published: February 2021

Genome mining is more and more widely used in identifying new enzymes from database. In the present study, we reported a putative xylanase, Pg-Xyn (WP_053166147.1), which originated from a psychrotolerant strain Planomicrobium glaciei CHR 43, and was identified from Genbank by genome mining. Sequence analysis and homology modeling showed that Pg-Xyn belongs to glycosyl hydrolase family 10. On the basis of heterologous expression in E. coli and biochemical characterization, we found Pg-Xyn was most active at pH 9.0 and 80°C and exhibited good stability from pH 5.0 to 12.0 and below 90°C. Pg-Xyn was slightly activated in the presence of Ca2+ and Mg2+, while it was strongly inhibited by Mn2+. The analysis of hydrolysis products showed that Pg-Xyn was an endo-β-1,4-xylanase. In addition, Pg-Xyn performed good deinking ability in a paper deinking test. In consideration of its unique properties, Pg-Xyn might be a promising candidate for application in the paper and pulp industries.
Characterization of Polyhydroxyalkanoates Produced at Pilot Scale From Different Organic Wastes
Authors: Lorini Laura , Martinelli Andrea , Capuani Giorgio , Frison Nicola , Reis Maria , Sommer Ferreira Bruno , Villano Marianna , Majone Mauro , Valentino Francesco
Published: February 2021

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) production at pilot scale has been recently investigated and carried out exploiting different process configurations and organic wastes. More in detail, three pilot platforms, in Treviso (North-East of Italy), Carbonera (North-East of Italy) and Lisbon, produced PHAs by open mixed microbial cultures (MMCs) and different organic waste streams: organic fraction of municipal solid waste and sewage sludge (OFMSW-WAS), cellulosic primary sludge (CPS), and fruit waste (FW), respectively. In this context, two stabilization methods have been applied, and compared, for preserving the amount of PHA inside the cells: thermal drying and wet acidification of the biomass at the end of PHA accumulation process. Afterward, polymer has been extracted following an optimized method based on aqueous-phase inorganic reagents. Several PHA samples were then characterized to determine PHA purity, chemical composition, molecular weight, and thermal properties. The polymer contained two types of monomers, namely 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB) and 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) at a relative percentage of 92.6–79.8 and 7.4–20.2 w/w, respectively, for Treviso and Lisbon plants. On the other hand, an opposite range was found for 3HB and 3HV monomers of PHA from Carbonera, which is 44.0–13.0 and 56.0–87.0 w/w, respectively. PHA extracted from wet-acidified biomass had generally higher viscosity average molecular weights (Mv) (on average 424.8 ± 20.6 and 224.9 ± 21.9 KDa, respectively, for Treviso and Lisbon) while PHA recovered from thermally stabilized dried biomass had a three-fold lower Mv.
Quantitative Ultrasonographic Analysis of Changes of the Suprascapular Nerve in the Aging Population With Shoulder Pain
Authors: Wu Wei-Ting , Chen Lan-Rong , Chang Hsiang-Chi , Chang Ke-Vin , Özçakar Levent
Published: February 2021

Background

Older people are vulnerable to painful shoulder syndromes, the majority of which are derived from degenerative rotator cuff pathologies. The suprascapular nerve (SSN) is closely related to the rotator cuff complex, and its role in shoulder pain has recently been highlighted. This study aimed to explore the differences in SSN among older people with and without shoulder pain, and to investigate the potential factors influencing the nerve size using ultrasound (US) imaging.

Methods

Participants aged ≥60 years were enrolled in the study. A systematic and bilateral US examination of the rotator cuff tendons was performed. The SSN was examined from its origin in the brachial plexus to the spinoglenoid notch of the infraspinatus fossa. The association between the nerve’s cross-sectional area (CSA) and rotator cuff lesions was analyzed using the generalized estimation equation.

Results

Among the 94 participants, 45 (with bilaterally asymptomatic shoulders) were classified into the control group, whereas 49 (with at least one-sided shoulder pain) were classified into the group with shoulder pain. The average CSAs of the SSN at the level of the brachial plexus, supraspinatus fossa, and infraspinatus fossa were comparable between the patients in the control group and those with shoulder pain. There was a higher prevalence of rotator cuff lesions and enlarged distal SSNs in the painful shoulders than in the asymptomatic shoulders of patients with unilateral involvement. A full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon was associated with swelling of the SSN in the supraspinatus fossa (β coefficient = 4.068 mm2, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In the older population, full-thickness tears of the supraspinatus tendon are independently associated with enlargement of the distal SSN. In cases with large rotator cuff tendon tears with poor response to conservative treatments, possible SSN entrapment should be considered and managed accordingly.
Real-Time and Dynamically Consistent Estimation of Muscle Forces Using a Moving Horizon EMG-Marker Tracking Algorithm—Application to Upper Limb Biomechanics
Authors: Bailly François , Ceglia Amedeo , Michaud Benjamin , Rouleau Dominique M. , Begon Mickael
Published: February 2021

Real-time biofeedback of muscle forces should help clinicians adapt their movement recommendations. Because these forces cannot directly be measured, researchers have developed numerical models and methods informed by electromyography (EMG) and body kinematics to estimate them. Among these methods, static optimization is the most computationally efficient and widely used. However, it suffers from limitation, namely: unrealistic joint torques computation, non-physiological muscle forces estimates and inconsistent for motions inducing co-contraction. Forward approaches, relying on numerical optimal control, address some of these issues, providing dynamically consistent estimates of muscle forces. However, they result in a high computational cost increase, apparently disqualifying them for real-time applications. However, this computational cost can be reduced by combining the implementation of a moving horizon estimation (MHE) and advanced optimization tools. Our objective was to assess the feasibility and accuracy of muscle forces estimation in real-time, using a MHE. To this end, a 4-DoFs arm actuated by 19 Hill-type muscle lines of action was modeled for simulating a set of reference motions, with corresponding EMG signals and markers positions. Excitation- and activation-driven models were tested to assess the effects of model complexity. Four levels of co-contraction, EMG noise and marker noise were simulated, to run the estimator under 64 different conditions, 30 times each. The MHE problem was implemented with three cost functions: EMG-markers tracking (high and low weight on markers) and marker-tracking with least-squared muscle excitations. For the excitation-driven model, a 7-frame MHE was selected as it allowed the estimator to run at 24 Hz (faster than biofeedback standard) while ensuring the lowest RMSE on estimates in noiseless conditions. This corresponds to a 3,500-fold speed improvement in comparison to state-of-the-art equivalent approaches. When adding experimental-like noise to the reference data, estimation error on muscle forces ranged from 1 to 30 N when tracking EMG signals and from 8 to 50 N (highly impacted by the co-contraction level) when muscle excitations were minimized. Statistical analysis was conducted to report significant effects of the problem conditions on the estimates. To conclude, the presented MHE implementation proved to be promising for real-time muscle forces estimation in experimental-like noise conditions, such as in biofeedback applications.
Metformin Resensitizes Sorafenib-Resistant HCC Cells Through AMPK-Dependent Autophagy Activation
Authors: Lai Hong-Yue , Tsai Hsin-Hwa , Yen Chia-Jui , Hung Liang-Yi , Yang Ching-Chieh , Ho Chung-Han , Liang Hsin-Yin , Chen Feng-Wei , Li Chien-Feng , Wang Ju-Ming
Published: February 2021

Despite the activation of autophagy may enable residual cancer cells to survive and allow tumor relapse, excessive activation of autophagy may eventually lead to cell death. However, the details of the association of autophagy with primary resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain less clear. In this study, cohort analysis revealed that HCC patients receiving sorafenib with HBV had higher mortality risk. We found that high epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression and activity may be linked to HBV-induced sorafenib resistance. We further found that the resistance of EGFR-overexpressed liver cancer cells to sorafenib is associated with low activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein delta (CEBPD) as well as insufficient autophagic activation. In response to metformin, the AMPK/cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) pathway contributes to CEBPD activation, which promotes autophagic cell death. Moreover, treatment with metformin can increase sorafenib sensitivity through AMPK activation in EGFR-overexpressed liver cancer cells. This study suggests that AMPK/CEBPD-activated autophagy could be a potent strategy for improving the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC patients.
From Species to Regional and Local Specialization of Intestinal Macrophages
Authors: Arroyo Portilla Cynthia , Tomas Julie , Gorvel Jean-Pierre , Lelouard Hugues
Published: February 2021

Initially intended for nutrient uptake, phagocytosis represents a central mechanism of debris removal and host defense against invading pathogens through the entire animal kingdom. In vertebrates and also many invertebrates, macrophages (MFs) and MF-like cells (e.g., coelomocytes and hemocytes) are professional phagocytic cells that seed tissues to maintain homeostasis through pathogen killing, efferocytosis and tissue shaping, repair, and remodeling. Some MF functions are common to all species and tissues, whereas others are specific to their homing tissue. Indeed, shaped by their microenvironment, MFs become adapted to perform particular functions, highlighting their great plasticity and giving rise to high population diversity. Interestingly, the gut displays several anatomic and functional compartments with large pools of strikingly diversified MF populations. This review focuses on recent advances on intestinal MFs in several species, which have allowed to infer their specificity and functions.
In-vivo Investigations of Hydroxyapatite/Co-polymeric Composites Coated Titanium Plate for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Diwu Weilong , Dong Xin , Nasif Omaima , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Zhao Jian , Li Wei
Published: February 2021

A perfect mimic of human bone is very difficult. Still, the latest advancement in biomaterials makes it possible to design composite materials with morphologies merely the same as that of bone tissues. In the present work is the fabrication of selenium substituted Hydroxyapatite (HAP-Se) covered by lactic acid (LA)—Polyethylene glycol (PEG)—Aspartic acid (AS) composite with the loading of vincristine sulfate (VCR) drug (HAP-Se/LA-PEG-AS/VCR) for twin purposes of bone regenerations. The HAP-Se/LA-PEG-AS/VCR composite coated on titanium implant through electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The prepared composite characterized using FTIR, XRD techniques to rely on the composites' chemical nature and crystalline status. The morphology of the composite and the titanium plate with the composite coating was investigated by utilizing SEM, TEM instrument techniques, and it reveals the composite has porous morphology. The drug (VCR) load in HAP-Se/LA-PEG-AS and releasing nature were investigated through UV-Visible spectroscopy at the wavelength of 295 nm. In vitro study of SBF treatment shows excellent biocompatibility to form the HAP crystals. The viability against MG63 and toxicity against Saos- 2 cells have expressed the more exceptional biocompatibility in bone cells and toxicity with the cancer cells of prepared composites. The in-vivo study emphasizes prepared biomaterial suitable for implantation and helps accelerate bone regeneration on osteoporosis and osteosarcoma affected hard tissue.
Gene Expression Profiles Reveal Extracellular Matrix and Inflammatory Signaling in Radiation-Induced Premature Differentiation of Human Fibroblast in vitro
Authors: Herskind Carsten , Sticht Carsten , Sami Ahmad , Giordano Frank A. , Wenz Frederik
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Fibroblasts are considered to play a major role in the development of fibrotic reaction after radiotherapy and premature radiation-induced differentiation has been proposed as a cellular basis. The purpose was to relate gene expression profiles to radiation-induced phenotypic changes of human skin fibroblasts relevant for radiogenic fibrosis.

Materials and Methods

Exponentially growing or confluent human skin fibroblast strains were irradiated in vitro with 1–3 fractions of 4 Gy X-rays. The differentiated phenotype was detected by cytomorphological scoring and immunofluorescence microscopy. Microarray analysis was performed on Human Genome U133 plus2.0 microarrays (Affymetrix) with JMP Genomics software, and pathway analysis with Reactome R-package. The expression levels and kinetics of selected genes were validated with quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting.

Results

Irradiation of exponentially growing fibroblast with 1 × 4 Gy resulted in phenotypic differentiation over a 5-day period. This was accompanied by downregulation of cell cycle-related genes and upregulation of collagen and other extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes. Pathway analysis confirmed inactivation of proliferation and upregulation of ECM- and glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-related pathways. Furthermore, pathways related to inflammatory reactions were upregulated, and potential induction and signaling mechanisms were identified. Fractionated irradiation (3 × 4 Gy) of confluent cultures according to a previously published protocol for predicting the risk of fibrosis after radiotherapy showed similar downregulation but differences in upregulated genes and pathways.

Conclusion

Gene expression profiles after irradiation of exponentially growing cells were related to radiation-induced differentiation and inflammatory reactions, and potential signaling mechanisms. Upregulated pathways by different irradiation protocols may reflect different aspects of the fibrogenic process thus providing a model system for further hypothesis-based studies of radiation-induced fibrogenesis.
Spotlight on USP4: Structure, Function, and Regulation
Authors: Hu Binbin , Zhang Dingyue , Zhao Kejia , Wang Yang , Pei Lijiao , Fu Qianmei , Ma Xuelei
Published: February 2021

The deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB)–mediated cleavage of ubiquitin plays a critical role in balancing protein synthesis and degradation. Ubiquitin-specific protease 4 (USP4), a member of the largest subfamily of cysteine protease DUBs, removes monoubiquitinated and polyubiquitinated chains from its target proteins. USP4 contains a DUSP (domain in USP)–UBL (ubiquitin-like) domain and a UBL-insert catalytic domain, sharing a common domain organization with its paralogs USP11 and USP15. USP4 plays a critical role in multiple cellular and biological processes and is tightly regulated under normal physiological conditions. When its expression or activity is aberrant, USP4 is implicated in the progression of a wide range of pathologies, especially cancers. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the current knowledge of USP4 structure, biological functions, pathological roles, and cellular regulation, highlighting the importance of exploring effective therapeutic interventions to target USP4.