bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and perinatal outcomes of eight cases of umbilical cord vascular rupture
Authors: Wang Xiaomei , Liu Zhaozhen , Chen Shouzhen , Wang Yu , Lin Sheng
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To analyze the clinical characteristics and perinatal outcomes of umbilical cord vascular rupture, and to investigate the diagnosis and treatment strategies for reducing adverse perinatal outcomes.

Methods

Clinical data of patients with a singleton pregnancy with umbilical cord rupture who were admitted to Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital were collected. The incidence, related factors, clinical features and perinatal outcomes of umbilical cord rupture were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

There were eight cases of umbilical cord rupture (incidence rate: 1/8370). Among them, seven were secondary to umbilical cord insertion abnormality, and one may have been related to a relatively short umbilical cord and umbilical cord traction. There were eight cases of abnormal fetal heart rate, two of vaginal bleeding, five of bloody amniotic fluid, five of premature rupture of the membranes, and two of placental abruption. With regard to outcomes, 50% of patients had cesarean section, 12.5% had forceps delivery, and 50% had perinatal mortality.

Conclusions

Vaginal bleeding, amniotic fluid, fetal heart rate, and umbilical cord insertion should be closely monitored in pregnancy. When abnormal conditions occur, obstetricians should be aware of rupture of the umbilical vessels and terminate pregnancy as soon as possible, which could improve perinatal outcomes.
Performance-Based Approach for Deciding Concrete Age for Healer Sealer Application on New Concrete
Authors: Mazumder Abul Fazal , Attanayake Upul , Berke Neal S.
Published: June 2020

Healer sealer application is one of the capital schedule maintenance (CSM) activities for enhancing concrete bridge deck durability and extending the service life. A healer sealer is expected to seal the cracks and reduce the rate of chloride ion ingress. Highway agency policies and manufacturer specifications require maintaining a total of 28-day curing period (7-day wet and 21-day dry curing) before the application of a healer sealer on bridge decks with new concrete in patches and repairs. Consequently, the contractors have to wait for 28 days to apply a healer sealer. Delaying application time increases project completion time and cost of construction and mobility. This paper presents a performance-based approach for evaluating the possibility of reducing the 28-day waiting period for healer sealer application on bridge decks with new concrete. An experimental program was developed and executed to evaluate the impact of healer sealer application parameters on crack sealing ability. A healer sealer was applied at 14, 21, and 28 days of concrete age. The treated surface was ponded with 3% NaCl. The performance of the treated concrete was evaluated using the acid-soluble chloride content test. The results showed the possibility of applying a sealer before the end of the 28-day curing period stipulated in the current specifications. The performance-based approach presented in this paper can be used to identify the age of concrete for healer sealer application.
Perceptions, Experiences, and Outcomes of Lactation Support in the Workplace: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Taylor Yhenneko J. , Scott Victoria C. , Danielle Connor C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Despite legislation requiring break time and a private space to express milk, variations exist in accommodations for breastfeeding employees in the United States.

Research Aims

We aimed to describe employee and employer perceptions of and experiences with workplace lactation support in the United States and to identify research needed to inform workplace lactation support programs.

Methods

We searched Academic Search Complete, Business Search Complete, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, and PsycInfo for peer-reviewed articles published from 2009 to 2019 ( n = 1638). We included 27 articles. Studies were categorized into four non-exclusive themes: (a) employee perceptions of and experiences with workplace lactation support; (b) employer reports of workplace lactation support; (c) association between workplace lactation support and business outcomes; and (d) association between workplace lactation support and breastfeeding outcomes.

Results

Analyses of associations between lactation support at work and employee breastfeeding outcomes ( n = 14, 52%), and employee perceptions of and experiences with lactation support at work ( n = 14, 52%) were most common, followed by employer reports of lactation support ( n = 3, 11%) and associations between lactation support at work and job satisfaction ( n = 3, 11%). Results indicated that workplace lactation support varied by employer, and that employee perceptions of and experiences with workplace lactation support varied by demographic and employment characteristics. The use of cross-sectional designs, unvalidated instruments, and limited representation from women with low incomes and minorities were common study limitations.

Conclusions

More research is needed to learn about experiences of employers and low-income and minority women with workplace lactation support and associations with business-relevant outcomes.
Acupuncture in the management of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Edwards James W , Shaw Vivien
Published: June 2020

Background

We aimed to assess the standing of acupuncture as a clinical tool in the management of trigeminal neuralgia against the current first-line drug treatment (carbamazepine) and the most effective surgery (microvascular decompression (MVD)).

Methods

Data regarding efficacy, side effects and cost were compiled for each of these three modalities from the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Patient stress was estimated according to Holmes and Rahe’s Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS).

Results

Acupuncture was not significantly more effective than its corresponding control (p = 0.088), but had the greatest efficacy (mean ± 95% confidence interval) of the modalities considered (86.5% ± 5.6% compared to surgery (79.3% ± 7.7%) and pharmacotherapy (71.7% ± 2.5%), respectively). Acupuncture also had fewer mean reported side effects (22.7% ± 5.9%) compared with surgery (25.3% ± 12.6%) and pharmacotherapy (88.8% ± 25.0%), and the lowest cost; after 5 years, the cost of acupuncture was estimated to be £750, compared to £1507.73 for carbamazepine and £4878.42 for MVD. Acupuncture was the least stressful according to the SRRS (53 points), whereas surgery was second most stressful (153 points) and pharmacotherapy was the most stressful intervention to patients (217 points).

Conclusion

Acupuncture appears more effective than pharmacotherapy or surgery. Statistical analysis of side effects was not possible due to inconsistent reporting protocols, but the data suggest that acupuncture is considerably safer than pharmacotherapy or surgery. Acupuncture also appears to be the least expensive therapeutic modality to deliver long-term (65 weeks onwards), and our analysis indicated that it was less stressful to patients than pharmacotherapy or surgery. Further study into these areas and the practicality of its availability in the UK National Health Service (NHS) and other health systems is recommended.
The Dragon and the Horn: Reflections on China–Africa Strategic Relations
Authors: Ylönen Aleksi
Published: June 2020

Historically, China maintained relations with faraway lands. These links included the intercontinental Silk Road and maritime trade routes, which connected China with other continents, including the eastern shores of Africa. However, apart from the exchange of goods, these routes also had a globalising effect through the spread of cultural influences, technology, ideologies and philosophical thought. Following its new push into Africa in the 1990s, China sought to rebuild these connections and has gone further to exert its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative. This article analyses China’s renewed interest in Africa, which increasingly ties the continent to the Indian Ocean economic area. It also reflects on some of the economic effects of Chinese involvement on the continent. The article shows that China initially sought to ensure access to strategic resources but has later moved to safeguard its growing involvement by establishing a physical and increasingly permanent presence in the territories of its key partners. While maintaining a selection of these partners at the core of its Africa policy, the Chinese economic engagement will continue to bring further economic benefits for the collaborating elites and their states. However, ensuring sustained growth and economic equality requires China’s key partners to engage in sound economic planning, policies and management.
Detection of feline coronavirus RNA, spike gene mutations, and feline coronavirus antigen in macrophages in aqueous humor of cats in the diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis
Authors: Sangl Laura , Felten Sandra , Matiasek Kaspar , Dörfelt Stefanie , Bergmann Michele , Balzer Hans-Jörg , Pantchev Nikola , Leutenegger Christian , Hartmann Katrin
Published: June 2020

Uveitis is common in cats, and is often a feature of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). We evaluated 3 tools for detection of feline coronavirus (FCoV) in aqueous humor: 1) a 7b gene reverse-transcription real-time PCR ( 7b-RT-rtPCR) assay to detect FCoV RNA, 2) a spike gene mutation RT-rtPCR ( S-RT-rtPCR) assay to detect 2 point mutations in the spike gene of FCoV in cats positive by 7b-RT-rtPCR, and 3) immunocytochemistry (ICC) for detection of FCoV antigen in aqueous humor macrophages. We studied 58 cats, including 31 cats with FIP and 27 control cats. FIP was excluded by postmortem examination and negative immunohistochemistry (IHC). Aqueous humor samples obtained postmortem were assessed using 7b-RT-rtPCR in all cats, and positive samples were evaluated with S-RT-rtPCR. ICC evaluation of aqueous humor samples from 36 of the 58 cats was done using an avidin–biotin complex method and monoclonal anti-FCoV IgG 2A. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values were calculated including 95% CIs. 7b-RT-rtPCR had a specificity of 100.0% (95% CI: 87.2–100.0) and sensitivity of 35.5% (95% CI: 19.2–54.6). Specificity of S-RT-rtPCR could not be determined because there were no FCoV 7b-RT-rtPCR–positive samples in the control group. Sensitivity of S-RT-rtPCR was 12.9% (95% CI 3.6–29.8). Sensitivity and specificity of ICC were 62.5% (95% CI: 40.6–81.2) and 80.0% (95% CI: 44.4–97.5), respectively. The combination of 7b-RT-rtPCR and IHC could be useful in diagnosing FIP; S-RT-rtPCR did not add value; and ICC of aqueous humor samples cannot be recommended for the diagnosis of FIP.
Analysis and experimental study on dynamic behavior of permanent magnet synchronous motor in driving flexible solar array
Authors: Zheng Zhaomingyue , Cheng Wei , Wang Guangyuan
Published: June 2020

The rotational instability of the flexible solar array will lead to the instability of satellite attitude and affect the imaging accuracy of high-resolution remote sensing satellite payload. In this article, the dynamic behavior of the permanent magnet synchronous motor in driving the flexible solar array is studied. The equation of the permanent magnet synchronous motor driven by the microstep driving method is simplified by coordinate transformation and linearization. The dynamic model of the permanent magnet synchronous motor in driving the flexible solar array is established by the fixed-interface mode synthesis method. According to the classical control theory, a method to determine the control parameters is presented. The dynamic model and the method are demonstrated by simulation and experiment. The results show that the predicted frequency error of the dynamic model of the flexible solar array driven by the permanent magnet synchronous motor is less than 5.5%, and the amplitude error of the corresponding frequency is less than 9.7%. The method of determining control parameters is effective and feasible, which provides effective support for engineering practice.
Plural Pasts, Presents, and Futures of Postqualitative Inquiry: Two Questions for the Field
Authors: Nordstrom Susan Naomi
Published: June 2020

What is the Work of History in Postqualitative Research? and Who is Seated at the Table? This brief invited commentary focuses on these two questions generated from the articles in David Carlson’s special issue about the postqualitative turn in qualitative inquiry. These questions aim to ask those interested in postqualitative inquiry to thoughtfully consider the work of making the multiple in postqualitative inquiry.
COVID-19 and gradual adjustment in the tourism, hospitality, and related industries
Authors: Tsionas Mike G
Published: June 2020

In this Note, we take up the problem of post-COVID-19 gradual adjustment in the industry as well as whether and to what extent opening with limited capacity might be feasible. We find that (i) reopening gradually requiring only nonnegative profits is quite feasible but (ii) reopening requiring the same level of profit as in the pre-COVID-19 period is considerably more difficult, and seems feasible by reopening at capacity near 33%. Lower capacities would require governmental subsidies which could vary considerably from hotel to hotel.
Attitudinal and normative responses to advertising stimuli and vaping intentions
Authors: Brown Abraham , Allison Seamus
Published: June 2020

Empirical data to show whether exposure to e-cigarette advertising stimuli may influence former- and never-smokers to consider vaping is lacking. We examined whether former- and never-smokers’ cognitive, affective, and normative responses to e-cigarette stimuli in retail outlets will predict their vaping intention. A repeat cross-sectional study recruited 876 participants aged 18–24 years at Waves 1 and 2 in the United Kingdom. Bayesian structural equation modeling tested mediation and moderation effects of the variables of interest. Results from Waves 1 and 2 revealed that the association of salience of e-cigarette advertising in stores and gas stations with vaping intention was mediated by affect and subjective norms among former smokers. Cognitive attitudes of never smokers mediated the relationship between salience of e-cigarette advertising in retail outlets and vaping intention at Waves 1 and 2. Former smokers were more likely to hold stronger affect toward vaping than never smokers at Wave 2. Our study supports the need for stronger policies to restrict e-cigarette portrayals in retail outlets, as advertising messages can trigger strong thoughts, feelings, and norms of vaping. Interventions may benefit from including attitudinal and normative components to promote pro-social behavior.
How We SEE Is How We Learn: Reflection in the Workplace
Authors: Kowalski Rita , Russell Cynthia
Published: June 2020

The Problem

Today’s workers face constant economic, social, scientific, and technological change — a challenging climate for learning. Learners need to integrate and balance acting, reflecting, thinking, and feeling as they negotiate within this everchanging environment.

The Solution

This Special Issue explores workplace learning’s power through the understanding and application of reflective practices which are often informal and incidental and occur as individuals engage and learn from the experience of their daily activities.

The Stakeholders

HRD scholars and practitioners will benefit from an understanding of the tools and practices that facilitate workplace learning through reflection. This Special Issue provides a theoretical framing of workplace reflection, situates reflection in various contexts, offers examples of use in the workplace, addresses its risks, and raises questions for both research and practice.
Study on improving hole quality of 7075 aluminum alloy based on magnetic abrasive finishing
Authors: Jiao Anyuan , Zhang Guofu , Liu Binghong , Liu Weijun
Published: June 2020

Based on the mechanism of magnetic abrasive finishing, the 7075 aluminum alloy (Al7075) was used in the experimental study. In order to improve wall surface quality and to remove the edge burrs of the hole, a novel magnetic abrasive finishing process was proposed. First, the radial magnetizing pole for the inner surface finishing process was confirmed. The evaluation of magnet spinning speed, abrasive mesh, and abrasive filling amount on the diameter deviation of the hole and surface roughness of the inner wall was studied. According to the characteristics of magnetic abrasive finishing process, Taguchi’s method was used to carry out the test. Through the analysis of variance, the best process parameters were determined and verified. The inner surface roughness was further decreased and the surface morphology was more uniform after finishing process. Second, the edge burr removal process of the hole exit was also studied, and the geometry of the burrs was measured before and after the magnetic abrasive finishing process. The results show that the burrs were significantly removed and the burr removal efficiency was improved by 33.3% compared with the conventional magnetic abrasive finishing process. Finally, the improved magnetic abrasive finishing process is an effective method in improving finishing quality of the Al7075 holes.
Temporal-order judgement task suggests chronological action representations in motor experts and non-experts
Authors: Harrison Róisín Elaine , Giesel Martin , Hesse Constanze
Published: June 2020

Motor priming studies have suggested that human movements are mentally represented in the order in which they usually occur (i.e., chronologically). In this study, we investigated whether we could find evidence for these chronological representations using a paradigm which has frequently been employed to reveal biases in the perceived temporal order of events—the temporal-order judgement task. We used scrambled and unscrambled images of early and late movement phases from an everyday action sequence (“stepping”) and an expert action sequence (“sprinting”) to examine whether participants’ mental representations of actions would bias their temporal-order judgements. In addition, we explored whether motor expertise mediated the size of temporal-order judgement biases by comparing the performances of sprinting experts with those of non-experts. For both action types, we found significant temporal-order judgement biases for all participants, indicating that there was a tendency to perceive images of human action sequences in their natural order, independent of motor expertise. Although there was no clear evidence that sprinting experts showed larger biases for sprinting action sequences than non-experts, considering sports expertise in a broader sense provided some tentative evidence for the idea that temporal-order judgement biases may be mediated by more general motor and/or perceptual familiarity with the running action rather than specific motor expertise.
Pilot Implementation of Adapted-Family Diabetes Self-Management Education Into a Clinical Setting
Authors: McElfish Pearl A. , Long Christopher R. , Scott Aaron J. , Hudson Jonell S. , Haggard-Duff Lauren , Holland Angel , Schulz Thomas K. , Wilmoth Ralph O. , Selig James P.
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Marshallese are a Pacific Islander community that experience a disproportionate rate of type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of an Adapted-Family Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) intervention among Marshallese adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and their family members when delivered in a clinical setting. Methods: Marshallese patients (primary participants) with type 2 diabetes (n = 10) and their family members (n = 10) enrolled in a pilot study deigned to evaluate an Adapted-Family DSME curriculum conducted by community health workers and a certified diabetes educator in a clinical setting. Primary and family participants’ health information and biometric data (HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, and body mass index) were collected at preintervention and 12 weeks postintervention. Results: All 10 primary participants and 8 of the family members received all 10 hours of the education intervention. Nine of the 10 primary participants and 8 of the 10 family members completed the pre- and postintervention data collection events. Primary participants demonstrated a mean decrease in HbA1c of 0.7%, from pre- to postintervention, as well as improved blood pressure and cholesterol. Family members demonstrated minor improvements in HbA1c and blood pressure. Conclusions: Results suggest preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of the Adapted-Family DSME in a clinic setting and will inform implementation of a fully powered study.
“Along for the Ride”: A Qualitative Study Exploring Patient and Caregiver Perceptions of Decision Making in Cancer Care
Authors: Holdsworth Laura M. , Zionts Dani , Asch Steven M. , Winget Marcy
Published: June 2020

Background. Shared decision making is a cornerstone of an informed consent process for cancer treatment, yet there are often many physician and patient-related barriers to participation in the process. Decisions in cancer care are often perceived as relating to a discrete, treatment decision event, yet there is evidence that decisions are longitudinal in nature and reflect a multifactorial experience. Objective. To explore patient and caregiver perceptions of the choices and decision-making opportunities within cancer care. Design. Qualitative in-depth interviews with 37 cancer patients and 7 caregivers carried out as part of an evaluation of a cancer center’s effort to improve patient experience. Results. Participants described decision making related to four distinct phases in complex cancer care, with physicians leading, and often limiting, decisions related to disease assessment and treatment options and access, and patients leading decisions related to physician selection. Though physicians led many decisions, patients had a moderating influence on treatment, such that if patients did not like options presented, they would reconsider their options and sometimes switch physicians. Patients had various strategies for dealing with uncertainty when faced with decisions, such as seeking additional information to make an informed choice or making a conscious choice to defer decision making to the physician. Limitations. Patients were sampled from one academic cancer center that serves a predominantly Caucasian, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino population and received complex treatment. Conclusion. Because of the complexity of cancer treatment, many patients felt as though they were a “passenger” in decision making about care and did not lead many of the decisions, though many patients trusted their doctors to make the best decisions and were comforted by their expertise.
Properties of calcium sulfoaluminate cement-based grouting materials with LiAl-layered double hydroxides slurries
Authors: Li Haiyan , Wang Xianping , Guan Xuemao , Zou Dinghua
Published: June 2020

In this study, LiAl-layered double hydroxides Lithium aluminum hydrotalcite (LiAl-LDH) with different specific surface area were prepared by the separate nucleation and aging steps (SNAS) method and then were employed to prepare calcium sulfoaluminate cement-based grouting material (CBGM) paste. The influence of LiAl-LDH slurries on fresh and hardened properties of the CBGM paste was investigated in terms of fluidity, stability, setting time, and compressive strength. Additionally, the hydration process and hydration products of the CBGM paste were characterized by hydration heat, X-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis–thermogravimetry, and Fourier transform infrared analyses. The acquired results illustrated that LiAl-LDH with larger specific surface area led to a faster hydration rate at early age, a lower fluidity, a shorter setting time, and a higher stability. Furthermore, due to the crystal nucleation effect, the addition of LiAl-LDH slurries did not cause a new phase to form but changed the morphology and increased the amount of hydration products, yielding higher compressive strength.
Risk score to predict event-free survival after hematopoietic cell transplant for sickle cell disease
Authors: Brazauskas Ruta , Scigliuolo Graziana M. , Wang Hai-Lin , Cappelli Barbara , Ruggeri Annalisa , Fitzhugh Courtney D. , Hankins Jane S. , Kanter Julie , Meerpohl Joerg J. , Panepinto Julie A. , Rondelli Damiano , Shenoy Shalini , Walters Mark C. , Wagner John E. , Tisdale John F. , Gluckman Eliane , Eapen Mary
Published: June 2020

We developed a risk score to predict event-free survival (EFS) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for sickle cell disease. The study population (n = 1425) was randomly split into training (n = 1070) and validation (n = 355) cohorts. Risk factors were identified and validated via Cox regression models. Two risk factors of 9 evaluated were predictive for EFS: age at transplantation and donor type. On the basis of the training cohort, patients age 12 years or younger with an HLA-matched sibling donor were at the lowest risk with a 3-year EFS of 92% (score, 0). Patients age 13 years or older with an HLA-matched sibling donor or age 12 years or younger with an HLA-matched unrelated donor were at intermediate risk (3-year EFS, 87%; score, 1). All other groups, including patients of any age with a haploidentical relative or HLA-mismatched unrelated donor and patients age 13 years or older with an HLA-matched unrelated donor were high risk (3-year EFS, 57%; score, 2 or 3). These findings were confirmed in the validation cohort. This simple risk score may guide patients with sickle cell disease and hematologists who are considering allogeneic transplantation as a curative treatment relative to other available contemporary treatments.
Germline TET2 loss of function causes childhood immunodeficiency and lymphoma
Authors: Stremenova Spegarova Jarmila , Lawless Dylan , Mohamad Siti Mardhiana Binti , Engelhardt Karin R. , Doody Gina , Shrimpton Jennifer , Rensing-Ehl Anne , Ehl Stephan , Rieux-Laucat Frederic , Cargo Catherine , Griffin Helen , Mikulasova Aneta , Acres Meghan , Morgan Neil V. , Poulter James A. , Sheridan Eamonn G. , Chetcuti Philip , O'Riordan Sean , Anwar Rashida , Carter Clive R. , Przyborski Stefan , Windebank Kevin , Cant Andrew J. , Lako Majlinda , Bacon Chris M. , Savic Sinisa , Hambleton Sophie
Published: June 2020

Molecular dissection of inborn errors of immunity can help to elucidate the nonredundant functions of individual genes. We studied 3 children with an immune dysregulation syndrome of susceptibility to infection, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, developmental delay, autoimmunity, and lymphoma of B-cell (n = 2) or T-cell (n = 1) origin. All 3 showed early autologous T-cell reconstitution following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. By whole-exome sequencing, we identified rare homozygous germline missense or nonsense variants in a known epigenetic regulator of gene expression: ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2). Mutated TET2 protein was absent or enzymatically defective for 5-hydroxymethylating activity, resulting in whole-blood DNA hypermethylation. Circulating T cells showed an abnormal immunophenotype including expanded double-negative, but depleted follicular helper, T-cell compartments and impaired Fas-dependent apoptosis in 2 of 3 patients. Moreover, TET2-deficient B cells showed defective class-switch recombination. The hematopoietic potential of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells was skewed toward the myeloid lineage. These are the first reported cases of autosomal-recessive germline TET2 deficiency in humans, causing clinically significant immunodeficiency and an autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome with marked predisposition to lymphoma. This disease phenotype demonstrates the broad role of TET2 within the human immune system.
Hcfc1a regulates neural precursor proliferation and asxl1 expression in the developing brain
Authors: Castro Victoria L. , Reyes Joel F. , Reyes-Nava Nayeli G. , Paz David , Quintana Anita M.
Published: June 2020

Background

Precise regulation of neural precursor cell (NPC) proliferation and differentiation is essential to ensure proper brain development and function. TheHCFC1gene encodes a transcriptional co-factor that regulates cell proliferation, and previous studies suggest that HCFC1 regulates NPC number and differentiation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying these cellular deficits has not been completely characterized.

Methods

Here we created a zebrafish harboring mutations in thehcfc1agene (thehcfc1aco60/+allele), one ortholog ofHCFC1, and utilized immunohistochemistry and RNA-sequencing technology to understand the function ofhcfc1aduring neural development.

Results

Thehcfc1aco60/+allele results in an increased number of NPCs and increased expression of neuronal and glial markers. These neural developmental deficits are associated with larval hypomotility and the abnormal expression ofasxl1, a polycomb transcription factor, which we identified as a downstream effector ofhcfc1a. Inhibition ofasxl1activity and/or expression in larvae harboring thehcfc1aco60/+allele completely restored the number of NPCs to normal levels.

Conclusion

Collectively, our data demonstrate thathcfc1aregulates NPC number, NPC proliferation, motor behavior, and brain development.
Factors affecting the utilization of antenatal care among married women of reproductive age in the rural Thatta, Pakistan: findings from a community-based case-control study
Authors: Aziz Ali Sumera , Aziz Ali Savera , Feroz Anam , Saleem Sarah , Fatmai Zafar , Kadir Muhammad Masood
Published: June 2020

Background

There are differences in antenatal care (ANC) utilization between urban and rural areas of Pakistan. Although multiple factors have been studied affecting the utilization of general health care services, the effect of road network distance particularly on the utilization of ANC has not been assessed. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between road network distance from a health care facility and utilization of the ANC among women of reproductive age in Thatta Pakistan.

Methods

A community-based case-control study was conducted in district Thatta, Pakistan. Women who did not utilize ANC services during their last pregnancy were considered as cases, while controls were the women who utilized ANC services during their last pregnancy. Questions related to socio-demographic, access-related factors and utilization of ANC were asked from women. Road network distance was calculated from the women’s home to the health care facility providing ANC services. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 380 participants were interviewed in this study. Participants’ mean age and parity were 28 years (SD 5.65), and 3.5 (SD 2.6) respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that women living at a shorter distance of less than 5 km were 1.21 times likely to utilize ANC services [Adjusted OR. 1.21; 95% CI (0.49–2.99)]. Moreover, nulliparous women were 4.10 times likely to utilize antenatal care [Adjusted OR. 4.10; 95% CI (1.10–15.26)]. Similarly, women who had knowledge of antennal care were 6.60 times likely to utilize ANC services [Adjusted OR. 6.60; 95% CI (3.33–13.05)]. Women having electricity in their households were 3.15 times likely to utilize the ANC services [Adjusted OR. 3.11 95% CI (1.51–6.41)]. Women, living in well-constructed (Pakka) houses were 2.58 times likely to utilize the ANC services [Adjusted O.R: 2.58; 95% CI (1.15–5.82)].

Conclusion

Road network distance has no measurable impact on ANC utilization among married women in Thatta district, Pakistan. Nulliparous women having knowledge of ANC living in well-constructed houses equipped with electricity were found to be utilizers of ANC services. It is recommended that awareness and health education sessions should be arranged for pregnant women in rural Pakistan.
Weighing up the risks and benefits of community gambling venues as recreational spaces for people with lifelong disability
Authors: Pitt Hannah , Thomas Samantha L. , Watson Joanne , Shuttleworth Russell , Murfitt Kevin , Balandin Susan
Published: June 2020

Background

Community gambling venues (pubs and clubs) are commonly associated with leisure and recreational options in Australian communities. While these venues offer a range of activities and facilities, including social opportunities, sporting facilities, live entertainment, they also contain gambling products that are known to cause significant harm to individuals, their families and communities. Although researchers have explored how adults and children engage with these venues, there is limited understanding about the potential risks and benefits of these venues for people with lifelong disability.

Methods

Semi structured interviews were conducted with nineteen people aged 20–70 years with lifelong disability (includes in this context intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and learning disability), predominately intellectual disability. The interviews occurred in a large Australian city and explored interviewees’ experiences and attitudes towards pubs and clubs. Using a range of visual prompts (if needed), participants were asked to describe their engagement in different activities offered within the venue. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed, with a thematic analysis used to identify themes across the group.

Results

Most participants attended venues with family, friends, and supporters, with a few attending on their own. Participants described socialising in the venue, going for reduced price meals, and attended for a range of activities including recreational activities, live entertainment and sport. Some participants also valued being a member of venues, and the interactions with staff members. While participants were cautious about the consumption of alcohol, most had gambled, particularly on electronic gambling machines (EGMs, pokies, or slots). Some participants stated that they had experienced problems with gambling.

Conclusions

While many people with lifelong disability have positive experiences in pubs and clubs, some are vulnerable to the harms associated with risky products such as gambling within the venue. While it is important to acknowledge the positives associated with recreational facilities and encourage engagement in leisure activities for people with lifelong disability, further consideration is needed to ensure people are informed and protected from the harms associated with gambling and other products that are provided within these spaces.
Associations between individual perceptions of PM2.5 pollution and pulmonary function in Chinese middle-aged and elderly residents
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhang Jiayao , Xu Yan , Sun Hong , Ding Zhen
Published: June 2020

Background

PM2.5 pollution has become a major public health concern in urban China. Understanding the residents’ individual perceptions toward haze pollution is critical for policymaking and risk communication. However, the perceptions of middle-aged and elderly residents, who particularly vulnerable to haze pollution, are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore their risk perceptions of haze pollution and investigate its relationship with health status and pulmonary function parameters.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 400 randomly sampled individuals (aged 40 to 90 years) was conducted in Wuxi, a typical PM2.5-polluted city in Jiangsu Province, China (during 2015–2017, daily average concentration of PM2.5 was 52.7 μg/m3). Each participant’s demographic and health information, individual perception and pulmonary function outcomes were collected to explore the relationships between perception factors and personal characteristics and pulmonary function parameters, using linear models.

Results

We found that the mean values for controllability (5 ± 2.8) and dread of risk to oneself (levels of fear for haze-related harm to oneself) (6.9 ± 2.5) were the lowest and the highest values, respectively, in our study. Education and average family income were positively related with all individual perception factors, while age was negatively associated. A history of respiratory disease was positively associated with all individual perception factors except controllability. Significant positive associations were observed between PEF (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.22) and FEF75% (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.29) with a variety of individual perception factors.

Conclusions

There were a lack of concern and knowledge, weak self-protection consciousness and a strong dread of PM2.5 pollution among the middle-aged and elderly residents in Wuxi. Their individual perceptions were associated with age, education levels, average family income, history of respiratory disease, PEF and FEF75%. Our findings may help policymakers develop effective policies and communication strategies to mitigate the hazards of haze among older residents.
ICT-based adherence monitoring in kidney transplant recipients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jung Hee-Yeon , Jeon Yena , Seong Sook Jin , Seo Jung Ju , Choi Ji-Young , Cho Jang-Hee , Park Sun-Hee , Kim Chan-Duck , Yoon Young-Ran , Yoon Se-Hee , Lee Jong Soo , Kim Yong-Lim
Published: June 2020

Background

Prior studies have explored the use of regular reminders to improve adherence among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), but none have included real-time alarms about drug dosage, frequency, and interval. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and stability of an information and communication technology (ICT)-based centralized monitoring system for increasing medication adherence among Korean KTRs.

Methods

In this prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled study, enrolled KTRs were randomized to either the ICT-based centralized monitoring group or control group. The ICT-based centralized monitoring system alerted both patients and medical staff with texts and pill box alarms if there was a missed dose or a dosage/time error. We compared the two groups in terms of medication adherence and transplant outcomes over 6 months, and evaluated patient satisfaction with the ICT-based monitoring system.

Results

Among 114 enrolled KTRs, 57 were assigned to the ICT-based centralized monitoring group and 57 to the control group. The two groups did not significantly differ in mean adherence at each follow-up visit. The intrapatient variability of tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid levels, renal function, and adverse transplant outcomes did not differ between the intervention and control groups, or between the intervention group with feedback generation and the intervention group without feedback generation. Patients showed high overall satisfaction with the ICT-based centralized monitoring system, which significantly improved across the study period (p = 0.012).

Conclusions

Due to high baseline adherence, the ICT-based centralized monitoring system did not maximize medication adherence or enhance transplant outcomes among Korean KTRs. However, patients were highly satisfied with the system. Our results suggest that the ICT-based centralized monitoring system could be successfully applied in clinical trials.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03136588. Registered 20 April 2017 - Retrospectively registered.
Reduced frequency and functional defects of CD4+CD25highCD127low/− regulatory T cells in patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Luo Li , Zeng Xun , Huang Zhongying , Luo Shan , Qin Lang , Li Shangwei
Published: June 2020

Background

Unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses, generally of unknown cause; it is related to a failure of fetal–maternal immunological tolerance. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) exert immunosuppressive effects, which are essential to maintain fetal–maternal immunological tolerance and regulate immune balance. In this study, we used the specific cell-surface phenotype of CD4+CD25highCD127low/− Tregs to investigate the number and suppressive function of Tregs isolated from the peripheral blood of patients with URSA with the aim of expanding our understanding of their role in URSA.

Methods

We isolated a relatively pure population of peripheral CD4+CD25highCD127low/− Tregs and CD4+CD25− responder T cells (Tresps) from the patients with URSA and normal fertile nonpregnant control women via fluorescence-activated cell sorting. We compared the frequency, suppressive capacity, and forkhead box transcription factor P3 (FOXP3) expression of Tregs in the peripheral blood between patients with URSA and normal controls.

Results

The frequency of CD4+CD25highCD127low/− Tregs in the peripheral blood was lower in URSA patients than in the controls (P < 0.05). The mean fluorescence intensity of FOXP3 and FOXP3 mRNA expression in Tregs was also significantly lower in the URSA patients (P < 0.01). Tregs suppressed the activity of autologous Tresps stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28 beads in a concentration-dependent manner, with the strongest suppression occurring in cocultures with a 1:1 Treg:Tresp ratio in both groups; however, patient-derived Tregs exhibited a poorer capacity to suppress the proliferation of autologous Tresps than the Tregs from normal controls (P < 0.01). Moreover, Tregs isolated from URSA patients inhibited the proliferation of Tresps from normal controls less potently than the Tregs from normal controls (P < 0.01), and Tresps from URSA patients were less effectively suppressed by autologous Tregs than by those from normal controls (P < 0.01). Tresp activity were intact in both groups.

Conclusions

We observed a lower frequency of peripheral CD4+CD25highCD127low/− Tregs with lower FOXP3 expression in the peripheral blood of URSA patients. In addition, highly purified Tregs from patients with URSA exhibited impaired suppressive effects. The defect in immune regulation in URSA patients appears to be primarily related to impaired Tregs, and not to increased resistance of Tresps to suppression. Our findings reveal a potential novel therapeutic target for URSA.
How do changes in flow magnitude due to hydroelectric power production affect fish abundance and diversity in temperate regions? A systematic review protocol
Authors: Harper Meagan , Rytwinski Trina , Taylor Jessica J. , Bennett Joseph R. , Smokorowski Karen E. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Natural flow regimes are an essential component of healthy fluvial systems, but hydropower production alters flow components, disrupting natural processes and impacting species reliant on them. Establishing improved management of flow regimes requires a better understanding of how fish respond to altered flow components, such as flow magnitude. We recently conducted a systematic map to provide a summary of the existing literature base on the impacts of flow regime changes on direct outcomes of freshwater or estuarine fish productivity. Of those studies considering the impacts of flow magnitude changes due to hydropower, studies on fish abundance, biomass and diversity responses were identified as subtopics (i.e., knowledge clusters) that had sufficient coverage for further review. This systematic review proposes to estimate how fish abundance, biomass and diversity are affected by alterations in flow magnitude due to hydropower production.

Methods

This systematic review will use evidence identified during a systematic map process. An updated English language search will be performed using six bibliographic databases, Google Scholar, and networking tools to include academic and grey literature published after 2016. Eligibility screening will be conducted at two stages: (1) title and abstract, and (2) full-text. We will include all studies that evaluate the impact of changes to (or manipulations of) flow magnitude due to hydropower on fish abundance, density, biomass, yield, species richness, composition or diversity indices. The focus of this review will be on the downstream fluvial effects of flow magnitude changes and include hydroelectric facilities where water moves via gravity or by active pumping. Any freshwater or estuarine fish species or species group in temperate regions will be considered. Included eligible studies will undergo a critical appraisal that will assess the internal study validity. We will extract information on study characteristics, intervention/exposure and comparator details, measured outcomes, and effect modifiers. A narrative synthesis will describe the quantity and characteristics of available evidence, and where sufficient numbers of similar studies are available, meta-analysis will be conducted to estimate an overall mean and variance of effect.
Influence of Pore Structure Characteristics on the Mechanical and Durability Behavior of Pervious Concrete Material Based on Image Analysis
Authors: Liu Ruyan , Chi Yin , Chen Shengyun , Jiang Qinghui , Meng Xiaoyu , Wu Kun , Li Shengjia
Published: June 2020

Pervious concrete has been widely used in parking lots and other lightweight streets. Performances of pervious concrete are strongly dependent on its pore structure characteristics. This paper investigates the relationship among porosity, permeability, compressive strength, durability and the pore structure characteristics of pervious concrete. The influences of basalt fiber and fine aggregate on the pervious concrete are also discussed. Pervious concrete specimens with different pore structures were prepared by combining basalt aggregate with size of 5–10 mm and 10–15 mm at different proportion. The pore structure characteristics such as area porosity, pore sizes, and pore distribution of pervious concrete were obtained and analyzed using image analysis method. Experimental results showed that the pore structure characteristics of pervious concrete have effects on its mechanical and durability behaviors. Homogeneous pore distribution and large distances between pores increase the compressive strength and improve freeze–thaw durability of pervious concrete. Due to the difference in the internal pore structure of pervious concretes, specimens with similar volumetric porosities had different permeability coefficients. A series of numerical models were regenerated through a MATLAB code using pore structural parameters derived from the image analysis method, then the numerical models were fed to ANSYS for meshing and further simulation. The comparison of the simulation and experimental results showed close accuracy, which verified the applied simulation analysis method based on image analysis technology.
Body dissatisfaction, addiction to exercise and risk behaviour for eating disorders among exercise practitioners
Authors: Freire Gabriel Lucas Morais , da Silva Paulo Josy Rawane , da Silva Adson Alves , Batista Roseana Pacheco Reis , Alves Juliana Fonseca Nogueira , do Nascimento Junior José Roberto Andrade
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study investigated the association between body dissatisfaction (BD), addiction to exercise and risk behaviors to eating disorders (EDs) among Brazilian exercise practitioners, besides comparing the variables according to sex, age group and modality.

Methods

Participants were 60 exercice practitioners of fitness (n = 44) and crossfit (n = 16), with mean age of 26.58 ± 7.76 years. Data collection was conducted through Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), Diagnosis of Orthorexia Questionnaire (ORTO-15), Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and Scale of Dedication to Exercise (SDE). Data analysis was conducted through Kolmogorov-Smirnov and independent t tests, Pearson correlation, and Path Analysis (p < .05).

Results

Main results showed the association between BD, addiction to exercise and risk behaviour for EDs. Further, individuals dissatisfied with their bodies showed higher level of addiction to exercise and risk behavior for EDs. Furthermore, women showed higher presence of BD than men, and fitness participants reported higher presence of addiction to exercise than crossfit practitioners.

Conclusions

This study revealed that BD seems to be a determinant factor for risk behavior for ED’s and addiction to exercise among fitness and crossfit particpants.