bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘I’m praying for a miracle’: characteristics of spiritual statements in paediatric intensive care unit care conferences
Authors: Gradick Katie , October Tessie , Pascoe David , Fleming Jeff , Moore Dominic
Published: August 2020

Context

Supporting spiritual needs is a well-established aspect of palliative care, but no data exist regarding how physicians engage with patients and families around spirituality during care conferences in paediatric intensive care units (PICU).

Objectives

To assess the frequency and characteristics of family and physician spiritual statements in PICU care conferences.

Methods

We performed qualitative analysis of 71 transcripts from PICU conferences, audio-recorded at an urban, quaternary medical centre. Transcripts were derived from a single-centre, cross-sectional, qualitative study.

Results

We identified spiritual language in 46% (33/71) of PICU care conferences. Spiritual statements were divided relatively evenly between family member (51%, 67/131) and physician statements (49%, 64/131). Physician responses to families’ spiritual statements were coded as supportive (46%, 31/67), deferred (30%, 20/67), indifferent (24%, 16/67) or exploratory (0/67).

Conclusions

In this single-centre PICU, spiritual statements were present 46% of the time during high stakes decision-making conferences, but there was little evidence of spiritual care best practices, such as offering chaplain support and performing open-ended spiritual assessments. PICU clinicians should expect spiritual statements in care conferences and be prepared to respond.
Denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia in metastatic gastric cancer
Authors: Gouldthorpe Craig , Quinton Richard , Wakefield Donna
Published: August 2020

Hypocalcaemia in malignancy is infrequently reported and the underlying cause is often multifactorial. Denosumab, an antiresorptive medication, can be used to treat a number of cancer-related complications including hypercalcaemia, metastatic bone pain and to reduce fracture-events. We present a case of a hospice inpatient with profound and recurring hypocalcaemia following a single denosumab infusion which required repeated hospitalisation, for intravenous calcium, alongside a prolonged course of vitamin D and electrolyte replacement. The case highlights the risk of hypocalcaemia with denosumab use, together with the need to identify and treat vitamin D deficiency in both the prevention and management of such a complication.
Women, older age, faster cycling speed and increased wind speeds are independent risk factors for acute injury-related medical encounters during a 109 km mass community-based participation cycling event: a 3-year study in 102251 race starters—SAFER XII
Authors: Killops Jannelene , Sewry Nicola Ann , Schwellnus Martin , Swanevelder Sonja , Janse van Rensburg Dina , Jordaan Esme
Published: August 2020

Background

There are limited data on acute injury-related medical encounters (injuries) in endurance cycling events.

Objective

To determine the risk factors for injuries during a mass community-based endurance cycling event.

Design

Retrospective, cross-sectional study.

Setting

Cape Town Cycle Tour (109 km), South Africa.

Participants

102 251 race starters.

Methods

All injuries for 3 years were recorded by race medical doctors and nurses. Injuries were grouped into main anatomical area of injury, and a Poisson regression model was used to determine the risk factors associated with injuries.

Results

The four injury risk factors associated with all injuries during an endurance cycling event were sex (women vs men, p<0.0001), older age (p=0.0005), faster cycling speed (p<0.0001) and higher average individualised Wind Speed (aiWindSpeed, p<0.0001). The only risk factor for serious/life-threatening injuries was women (p=0.0413). For specific main anatomical areas: head/neck (women), upper limb (women, older age, faster cyclists), trunk (women, higher aiWindSpeed), and lower limb (higher aiWindSpeed).

Conclusion

Women, older age, faster cycling speed and higher aiWindSpeed were all risk factors for acute injuries during a mass community-based endurance cycling event. These risk factors should help inform race organisers and medical teams on race day to ensure the best medical care is given, and effective acute injury prevention programmes are disseminated.
Transplantation for work-related lung disease in the USA
Authors: Blackley David J , Halldin Cara N , Hayanga J W Awori , Laney A Scott
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Work-related lung diseases (WRLDs) are entirely preventable. To assess the impact of WRLDs on the US transplant system, we identified adult lung transplant recipients with a WRLD diagnosis specified at the time of transplant to describe demographic, payer and clinical characteristics of these patients and to assess post-transplant survival.

Methods

Using US registry data from 1991 to 2018, we identified lung transplant recipients with WRLDs including coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, silicosis, asbestosis, metal pneumoconiosis and berylliosis.

Results

The frequency of WRLD-associated transplants has increased over time. Among 230 lung transplants for WRLD, a majority were performed since 2009; 79 were for coal workers’ pneumoconiosis and 78 were for silicosis. Patients with coal workers’ pneumoconiosis were predominantly from West Virginia (n=31), Kentucky (n=23) or Virginia (n=10). States with the highest number of patients with silicosis transplant were Pennsylvania (n=12) and West Virginia (n=8). Patients with metal pneumoconiosis and asbestosis had the lowest and highest mean age at transplant (48.8 and 62.1 years). Median post-transplant survival was 8.2 years for patients with asbestosis, 6.6 years for coal workers’ pneumoconiosis and 7.8 years for silicosis. Risk of death among patients with silicosis, coal workers’ pneumoconiosis and asbestosis did not differ when compared with patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions

Lung transplants for WRLDs are increasingly common, indicating a need for primary prevention and surveillance in high-risk occupations. Collection of patient occupational history by the registry could enhance case identification and inform prevention strategies.
Prevalence and determinants of genitalChlamydia trachomatisamong school-going, sexually experienced adolescents in urban and rural Indigenous regions of Panama
Authors: Gabster Amanda , Mayaud Philippe , Ortiz Alma , Castillo Jorge , Castillero Omar , Martínez Alexander , López Anyelini , Aizprúa Betsy , Pitano Sherly , Murillo Anet , Pascale Juan Miguel
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and risk factors of genitalChlamydia trachomatis(CT) among school-going sexually experienced male and female adolescents in Panama.

Methods

We conducted two multisite cross-sectional studies using two-stage cluster sampling to select adolescents aged 14–19 years attending urban public high schools (URB) in Panama City, San Miguelito, Colón and Panama Oeste from 2015 to 2018, and in the rural Indigenous Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé (CNB) from July–November 2018. CT testing was performed by real-time PCR on urine samples. Random-effects logistic regression accounting for sample clustering was used to identify risk factors.

Results

We enrolled 3166 participants (54.3% females), median age 17 years (IQR: 15.9–18.1), with no difference by sex. Sexual experience was reported by 1954 (61.7%) participants. Combined CT prevalence was 15.8% (95% CI: 14.2 to 17.4), with no significant differences by region (URB=16.5%, 95% CI: 14.7% to 18.6%; CNB=13.6%, 95% CI: 10.9% to 16.8%; p=0.12). In an age-and-region-adjusted analysis, CT prevalence was higher among female participants compared with males (21.6% vs 9.1%, adjusted OR (AOR)=2.87, 95% CI: 1.62 to 5.10). Among sexually experienced females, CT prevalence was higher among those who reported ≥3 lifetime sex partners compared with one partner (33.5% vs 15.3%, AOR=2.20, 95% CI: 1.09 to 4.07); and among those reporting at least one pregnancy compared with nulligravidae participants (30.9% vs 13.8%, AOR=1.89, 95% CI: 1.05 to 3.43). In unadjusted analyses among males, CT was associated with older age (11.5% among those aged 18–19 years vs 3.4% among those aged 14–15 years, OR=3.69, 95% CI: 1.10 to 12.33).

Conclusions

We report high CT prevalence among sexually experienced, school-going adolescents in Panama. Female adolescents, particularly those with multiple sex partners and a history of pregnancy, were at highest risk. Adolescent-targeted CT screening should be implemented in Panama. Additionally, evidence-based comprehensive sexuality education will be imperative.
Dealing with T and CPT violations in mixing as well as direct and indirect CP violations for neutral mesons decaying to two vectors
Authors: Karan Anirban
Published: August 2020

A large number of observables can be constructed from differential decay rate based on the polarization of final state while considering decay of a neutral meson $$(P^{0} \text { or } {\bar{P}}^{0})$$(P0orP¯0) to two vector particles. But all of these observables are not independent to each other since there are only a few independent theoretical parameters controlling the whole dynamics and therefore various relations among observables emerge. In this paper, we have studied the behaviour of observables for neutral meson decaying to two vectors in presence of $$T$$T and $$C\!P T$$CPT violations in mixing accompanied by both direct and indirect $$C\!P$$CP violations. We have expressed all of the fourteen unknown theoretical parameters for this scenario in terms observables only and constructed the complete set of thirty four relations among observables whose violation would signify the existence of some new Physics involving direct violation of $$C\!P T$$CPT. In addition, using this formalism we have studied three special cases too: (a) SM scenario, (b) SM plus direct $$C\!P$$CP violation (c) SM plus $$T$$T and $$C\!P T$$CPT violation in mixing.
Can shadows reflect phase structures of black holes?
Authors: Zhang Ming , Guo Minyong
Published: August 2020

The relation between the black hole shadow and the black hole thermodynamics is investigated. We find that the phase structure can be reflected by the shadow radius for the spherically symmetric black hole. We also find that the shadow size gives correct information but the distortion of the shadow gives wrong information of the phase structure for the axially symmetric black hole.
Initial Allocation Model of CO2 Emission Allowances Based on the Equity-Efficiency Tradeoff
Authors: Liyun Chen , Yuan He , Guang Li , Caixia Li , Jiqin Ren
Published: August 2020

Reasonably and fairly allocating carbon intensity reduction targets among Chinese provinces is a key problem in effectively controlling and reducing CO2 emissions. This study establishes the ZSG-DDF model combining the Zero-Sum Gains DEA and the Directional Distance Function to study the CO2 emission allowance allocations from the perspective of maximum efficiency. This model can discriminate desirable and undesirable outputs and solve the problem of total CO2 emission amount control. Then, we add the equity principle to the constraint conditions, namely, the proportion of carbon emission allowance approaching the proportion of GDP. Finally, we establish a CO2 emission allocation scheme based on the equity-efficiency tradeoff while considering the relationship between economic development and carbon emissions as well as achieving maximum efficiency. We use this new model to allocate CO2 emission allowance during the Chinese 13th Five-Year Plan, and compare it with the other two allocation schemes, including National allocations during the 13th Five-Year Plan, allocation scheme from the perspective of efficiency maximization. The results have a certain significance for government departments to formulate the allocation scheme of CO2 emission allowance.
Microstructure and shear behavior of Sn58Bi/Cu solder joint enhanced by SnAgCuBiNi bump
Authors: Liu Yang , Chang Jian , Zhou Min , Xue Yuxiong , Zeng Xianghua , Sun Fenglian
Published: August 2020

In order to improve the mechanical behavior of the low-temperature [Formula: see text] (SnBi) lead-free solder joint, the [Formula: see text] (SACBN) solder ball with the diameter of 400 [Formula: see text]m was pre-soldered on Cu to obtain the SnBi/SACBN/Cu composite joint. The microstructure and shear behavior of the solder joints were investigated. Experimental results indicate that SnBi solder is well bonded on the SACBN bump due to the elemental diffusion and dissolution between the molten SnBi and solid SACBN bump during the soldering process. The addition of the SACBN bump shows a significant effect on the formation and growth of the [Formula: see text]-Sn grains in the SnBi bulk. Compared with the SnBi/Cu joint, the SnBi bulk in the composite joint shows enlarged [Formula: see text]-Sn dendritic grains. Meanwhile, the interfacial intermetallic compound (IMC) layer transforms from Cu6Sn5 into (Cu, Ni)6Sn5. Among these three solder joints, the shear strength of the SACBN/Cu joint is the highest, reaching 86.7 MPa. The shear strength of the SnBi/Cu solder joint is enhanced by the SACBN bump from 68.2 MPa to 75.2 MPa. Additionally, the addition of the SACBN bump shows a positive effect on suppressing the brittleness of the SnBi/Cu solder joint.
Long short-term memory neural network-based multi-level model for smart irrigation
Authors: Sidhu Ravneet Kaur , Kumar Ravinder , Rana Prashant Singh
Published: August 2020

Rice is a staple food crop around the world, and its demand is likely to rise significantly with growth in population. Increasing rice productivity and production largely depends on the availability of irrigation water. Thus, the efficient application of irrigation water such that the crop doesn’t experience moisture stress is of utmost importance. In the present study, a long short-term memory (LSTM)-based neural network with logistic regression has been used to predict the daily irrigation schedule of drip-irrigated rice. The correlation threshold of 0.75 was used for the selection of features, which helped in limiting the number of input parameters. Also, a dataset based on the recommendation of a domain expert, and another used by the tool Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) was used for comparison. Field data comprising of weather station data and past irrigation schedules has been used to train the model. Grid search algorithm has been used to optimize the hyperparameters of the model. Nested cross-validation has been used for validating the results. The results show that the correlation-based selected dataset is as effective as the domain expert-recommended dataset in predicting the water requirement using LSTM as the base model. The models were evaluated on different parameters and a multi-criteria decision evaluation (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution [TOPSIS]) was used to find the best performing.
A new unified model of dark matter and dark energy in 5-dimensional f(R,ϕ) gravity
Authors: Bousder M. , Sakhi Z. , Bennai M.
Published: August 2020

We propose a new unified model that describes dark energy and dark matter in the context of [Formula: see text] gravity using a massive scalar field in five dimensions. The scalar field is considered in the bulk that surrounds the 3-brane in branworld model. We show that for a specific choice of the [Formula: see text] function, we can describe the Einstein gravitation in 4-dimensional space-time. We obtain a relationship between the speed of the Universe’s expansion and the speed of the bulk’s expansion. We also propose that the dark matter is represented by the scalar field mass and that the dark energy is a kinetic energy of this field. Finally, we show that, according to conditions, one can obtain the percentages of density of dark matter and the density of ordinary matter.
Min-Max Theory for Cell Complexes
Authors: Johnson Lacey , Knudson Kevin
Published: August 2020

In the study of smooth functions on manifolds, min-max theory provides a mechanism for identifying critical values of a function. We introduce a discretized version of this theory associated to a discrete Morse function on a (regular) cell complex. As applications we prove a discrete version of the mountain pass lemma and give an alternate proof of a discrete Lusternik–Schnirelmann theorem.
A Survey of Racks and Quandles: Some Recent Developments
Authors: Elhamdadi Mohamed
Published: August 2020

This short survey contains some recent developments of the algebraic theory of racks and quandles. We report on some elements of representation theory of quandles and ring theoretic approach to quandles.
Reductions of Ideals in Pullbacks
Authors: Kabbaj S. , Mimouni A.
Published: August 2020

This paper deals with reductions of ideals in various settings of pullback constructions. Precisely, we investigate reductions of several types of ideals in both generic and classical pullbacks. We also characterize pullbacks where reductions of a class of ideals extend to reductions of their respective extended ideals. All results are illustrated with original examples.
“Cultured Women” do not act in films: Tracing Notions of Female Stardom in Bombay Cinema (1930s–1950s)
Authors: SINHA PRIYAM
Published: August 2020

Women were absent from the archives and rendered as invisible within the film business that was changing the urban landscape of Bombay city in the 1930s through talkies. Questions were raised about female sexuality and respectability primarily due to a morality discourse closely associated with women acting in films. Tension, moral panic and distress had emerged from the dominant stigma regarding films making industries being a heterosexual and hybrid workspace. Moreover, an economy that capitalizes on voyeuristic pleasures of its male audience by objectifying women’s bodies. So, even though it offered women higher salaries unlike other professions, it was deemed as “dangerous” for women. Therefore, “cultured women”, essentially from the upper class, were discouraged from being a part of the studio film industry situated in the cosmopolitan Bombay city. Taking forward Neepa Majumdar’s (2009) dialogue on the denial of agency to women in Indian cinema, this paper traces the incorporation of feminist agenda into film making. This paper is limited to studying the biographical, autobiographical details and picturization of three eminent actresses: Nargis, Kanan Devi and Durga Khote. Further, I would elaborate on the struggles undertaken by them and the roles they played in films in order to deconstruct the notion of female stardom and an “ideal Indian woman” picturized in Bollywood from the 1930s–1950s. This period holds relevance in film historiography due to the ideological construction of female stardom that had its pros and cons which I would be discussing in depth through the paper.
Mixing by Oceanic Lee Waves
Authors: Legg Sonya
Published: August 2020

Oceanic lee waves are generated in the deep stratified ocean by the flow of ocean currents over sea floor topography, and when they break, they can lead to mixing in the stably stratified ocean interior. While the theory of linear lee waves is well established, the nonlinear mechanisms leading to mixing are still under investigation. Tidally driven lee waves have long been observed in the ocean, along with associated mixing, but observations of lee waves forced by geostrophic eddies are relatively sparse and largely indirect. Parameterizations of the mixing due to ocean lee waves are now being developed and implemented in ocean climate models. This review summarizes current theory and observations of lee wave generation and mixing driven by lee wave breaking, distinguishing between steady and tidally oscillating forcing. The existing parameterizations of lee wave–driven mixing informed by theory and observations are outlined, and the impacts of the parameterized lee wave–driven mixing on simulations of large-scale ocean circulation are summarized.
Mechanisms of Environment-Induced Autoimmunity
Authors: Pollard K. Michael , Cauvi David M. , Mayeux Jessica M. , Toomey Christopher B. , Peiss Amy K. , Hultman Per , Kono Dwight H.
Published: August 2020

Although numerous environmental exposures have been suggested as triggers for preclinical autoimmunity, only a few have been confidently linked to autoimmune diseases. For disease-associated exposures, the lung is a common site where chronic exposure results in cellular toxicity, tissue damage, inflammation, and fibrosis. These features are exacerbated by exposures to particulate material, which hampers clearance and degradation, thus facilitating persistent inflammation. Coincident with exposure and resulting pathological processes is the posttranslational modification of self-antigens, which, in concert with the formation of tertiary lymphoid structures containing abundant B cells, is thought to promote the generation of autoantibodies that in some instances demonstrate major histocompatibility complex restriction. Under appropriate gene-environment interactions, these responses can have diagnostic specificity. Greater insight into the molecular and cellular requirements governing this process, especially those that distinguish preclinical autoimmunity from clinical autoimmunedisease, may facilitate determination of the significance of environmental exposures in human autoimmune disease.
Recognition of Respiratory Dysfunctions Using Algorithm-Assisted Portable Airflow Sensors
Authors: Jhunjhunwala Megha , Lin Hui-Ling , Li Geng-Yue , Chen Chi-Shuo
Published: August 2020

Respiratory diseases are becoming a severe health threat. To prevent exacerbation with early diagnosis, there is an urgent need for developing a respiratory function assay with ease of access. Tidal breathing pattern reflects a combination of the existing lung condition and the physiological demand. However, the interpretations of breath pattern remain underexplored. In this study, lung simulator with various pathological parameters was used to reconstruct the breath pattern of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). Breath pattern was recorded using two flow sensors. Three machine learning algorithms, including convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM) and support vector machine (SVM), were applied for disease identification. Results showed algorithmic analysis can achieve over 80% accuracy, and two levels of obstructive severity of COPD can be determined. With the assistance of algorithms, similar results can be obtained using a portable sensor. In contrast to the heavy professional and complex equipment requirement of the current methods, this proof-of concept method shows the potential of using a low-cost portable sensor for respiratory function monitoring. This approach can provide a basis for preliminary diagnosis, and may further contribute to point of care testing for respiratory health.
Mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex activation protects against calcium alternans in atrial myocytes
Authors: Oropeza-Almazán Yuriana , Blatter Lothar A.
Published: August 2020

This study provides conclusive evidence that mitochondrial Ca uptake and retention protects from Ca alternans, whereas uptake inhibition enhances Ca alternans. The data suggest pharmacological mitochondrial Ca cycling modulation as a potential therapeutic strategy for alternans-related cardiac arrhythmia prevention.
Comprehensive MRI assessment of the cardiovascular responses to food ingestion in Fontan physiology
Authors: Hauser Jakob A. , Jones Alexander , Pandya Bejal , Taylor Andrew M. , Muthurangu Vivek
Published: August 2020

Novel data on cardiovascular physiology in response to a meal in Fontan patients are presented. Using a previously validated dynamic MRI protocol, we demonstrated that the usual increase in cardiac output and the dilation of the superior mesenteric artery are preserved in clinically well Fontan patients. In contrast, vasoconstriction of the legs may have prevented redistribution of blood flow from this region in response to the meal. This may also affect responses to other types of stress. Celiac vasodilation was also absent in Fontan patients. This may be due to abnormal hepatic circulation. The proposed protocol may be used to study Fontan complications secondary to abnormal regional hemodynamics.
Sympathetic arterial baroreflex hysteresis in humans: different patterns during low- and high-pressure levels
Authors: Incognito Anthony V. , Samora Milena , Shepherd Andrew D. , Cartafina Roberta A. , Guimarães Gabriel M. N. , Daher Mauricio , Vianna Lauro C. , Millar Philip J.
Published: August 2020

The findings show that the arterial baroreflex processes diastolic pressure dependent on the direction of pressure change from the previous beat, yielding two distinct baroreflex response curves to falling and rising pressure. Overall, the falling pressure curve is rightward shifted and more sensitive. The rightward shift caused a hysteresis reversal at hypotensive pressures as the falling pressure saturation plateau of the sigmoid response curve occurred at higher pressures than the rising pressure curve.
Four weeks of vitamin D supplementation improves nitric oxide-mediated microvascular function in college-aged African Americans
Authors: Wolf S. Tony , Jablonski Nina G. , Ferguson Sara B. , Alexander Lacy M. , Kenney W. Larry
Published: August 2020

Endothelial dysfunction, an antecedent to overt cardiovascular disease (CVD), is observed earlier and more frequently in otherwise healthy African Americans (AAs) when compared with other ethnic groups. Vitamin D may modulate endothelial function, and darkened skin pigmentation increases risk of vitamin D deficiency. We show that 4 wk of 2,000 IU/day vitamin D supplementation improves microvascular responses to local heating in AAs. Ensuring adequate vitamin D status may mitigate development of cardiovascular dysfunction in this at-risk population.
Lag-Based Filtered-Delay Multiply and Sum Beamformer Combined with Two Phase-Related Factors for Medical Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Song Ke , Liu Paul , Liu Dong C.
Published: August 2020

A novel adaptive beamformer named filtered-delay multiply and sum (F-DMAS) has recently been proposed. Compared to the delay and sum (DAS) beamforming algorithm, F-DMAS can efficiently improve the resolution and contrast. However, the DAS can still be seen in the expansion of DMAS. Therefore, we rearrange the pair-wised signals in terms of lag in DMAS and then synthesize a lot of new signals. Thanks to the relationship between the spatial coherence and lag, these new signals can be thought of as sorted by the spatial coherence. Thus, we apply two phase-related factors, the polarity-based factor (PF) and the sign coherence factor (SCF), which are evaluated based on new signals, to weight the output of DMAS. The two approaches are consequently referred to as LAG-DMAS-PF and LAG-DMAS-SCF, respectively. The results show that, compared to F-DMAS and DAS, our proposed methods can improve the resolution and contrast to some extent without increasing too much computational complexity. In the comparison between LAG-DMAS-PF and LAG-DMAS-SCF, the latter has better performance, but the former can better protect image details.
Action Mechanisms of Plant Growth Promoting Cyanobacteria in Crops In Situ: A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Múnera-Porras Luisa María , García-Londoño Santiago , Ríos-Osorio Leonardo Alberto
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims. An excessive and prolonged use of fertilizers undermines soils’ quality and, consequently, that of the crops they support, thus reducing the content of organic matter and generating environmental damages and problems to human health. Therefore, the use of biofertilizers such as cyanobacteria becomes a promising alternative. However, it is not always possible to generalize these fertilizers’ applicability, because microorganisms may be impacted by the physical and chemical variations of their environment. We will describe the action mechanisms or the characteristics of cyanobacteria involved in plant growth promotion for different crops in situ through a systematic review of scientific literature. Methods. A comprehensive search for original articles in two different databases, ScienceDirect and Scopus, was performed. We included in our search documents published from 2009 to 2018. After the screening process and the addition of gray literature publications, we obtained 23 articles for theoretical analysis. Results. The studies were distributed mainly in Asia and part of Africa, without any important temporal variation. They also showed a tendency to describe the use of cyanobacteria genera such as Anabaena sp., Nostoc sp., and Calothrix sp., besides mechanisms as N2 fixation, phosphate solubilization, phytohormone production, bioactive compounds excretion, and symbiotic associations, mainly on rice, wheat and corn crops. Conclusions. Cyanobacteria fertilizers used in situ are a widespread strategy, mainly in cereal crops. Their use is predominant in countries where cereal crops make an important contribution to their national economy. The great variety of mechanisms and characteristics of cyanobacteria used to promote plant growth in the field demonstrate the dramatic influence that physical, chemical, and biological variables have in their development.
Ultrasound‐Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis in Dancers with Chronic Soleus Injury: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: De-la-Cruz-Torres B. , Barrera-García-Martín I. , Valera-Garrido F. , Minaya-Muñoz F. , Romero-Morales C.
Published: August 2020

Damage to intramuscular tendons is very common in sports injuries, specifically in soleus muscle injuries. This study sought to compare the effects of applying ultrasound‐ (US‐) guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) in combination with an eccentric exercise program on pain and functionality in dancers with chronic soleus injury, located in the central tendon. Thirty dancers with injured central tendon of the soleus muscle were randomly allocated to a PNE group (n = 10), an eccentric exercise group (n = 10), or a combined group (n = 10). Pain, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DROM), endurance, the heel raise test, the DFOS questionnaire, and the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were analyzed at baseline and after treatment (four weeks). Over half (52%) of the dancers had a chronic soleus muscle injury. Variables for pain, DROM, the heel rise test, ADL, technique, DFOS total, and DFOS‐subjective variables showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in pretreatment and posttreatment in all groups, whereas no significant differences were observed between intervention groups. However, the combined group showed a higher percentage of changes compared to the other groups, and these dancers had greater perceived changes (MCID = 4.70 ± 1.42). The conclusion of the study was that dancers with chronic soleus injury, located in the central tendon, treated with a combination of US‐guided PNE and an eccentric exercise program displayed improved outcomes compared to the application of PNE therapy or eccentric exercise alone. The US‐guided PNE, combined with an eccentric exercise program, is a useful therapeutic tool for the treatment of chronic soleus injury, located in the central tendon. The trial is registered with NCT04042012.
Evaluation Effects of Laser Therapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy with Clinical Parameters and Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis in Patients with Spondyloarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Armagan Alpturker Kezban , Cerrahoglu Ayse Beyhan Lale , Orguc Ihsan Sebnem
Published: August 2020

Objective. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is applied in the conservative treatment of inflammatory plantar fasciitis, which is also a characteristic feature of spondyloarthritis (SpA) (Gill, 1997 and Roxas, 2005). We determined and compared the effectiveness of LLLT and ESWT using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods. This study is a prospective, randomized, comparative, single-blind clinical study. Voluntarily followed 40 patients with the diagnosis of SpA and having pain at the heels at least for 6 months. Patients were divided randomly into two treatment groups. One group undertook 14 sessions of infrared Ga-Al-As LLLT, and the other group undertook 3 sessions ESWT. Feet functions of the patients were evaluated by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Roles and Maudsley Scoring; VAS was evaluated for foot pain and function. In clinical assessment, disease activity was carried out by applying the BASDAI, the functional assessment was evaluated through the BASFI, and the patient quality of life was evaluated through the ASQoL; enthesitis was scored according to MASES assessment, performed before and at 1 month after treatment. The thickness of the plantar fascia was measured with MRI before and 1 month after treatment. Results. Compared with the pretherapy, progress in the feet function by AOFAS and Roles-Maudsley scoring and decrease in VAS levels were statistically significant in both groups (p<0.001). Only the VAS exercise score was superior to LLLT (p<0.05). The thickness of the plantar fascia had decreased significantly on MRI in all two groups. Conclusion. The treatment of plantar fasciitis with LLLT and ESWT was more successful in pain improvement and functional outcomes with the dose, frequency, and duration used in our study.
Identification of microRNA‐451a as a Novel Circulating Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Dai , Cui Yaping , Qiu Yongsheng , Miao Changhong , Lu Xihua
Published: August 2020

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Successful treatment of CRC relies on accurate early diagnosis, which is currently a challenge due to its complexity and personalized pathologies. Thus, novel molecular biomarkers are needed for early CRC detection. Methods. Gene and microRNA microarray profiling of CRC tissues and miRNA‐seq data were analyzed. Candidate microRNA biomarkers were predicted using both CRC‐specific network and miRNA‐BD tool. Validation analyses were carried out to interrogate the identified candidate CRC biomarkers. Results. We identified miR‐451a as a potential early CRC biomarker circulating in patient’s serum. The dysregulation of miR‐451a was revealed both in primary tumors and in patients’ sera. Downstream analysis validated the tumor suppressor role of miR‐451a and high sensitivity of miR‐451a in CRC patients, further confirming its potential role as CRC circulation biomarker. Conclusion. The miR‐451a is a potential circulating biomarker for early CRC diagnosis.
Fast Rate Production of Biodiesel from Neem Seed Oil Using a Catalyst Made from Banana Peel Ash Loaded with Metal Oxide (Li‐CaO/Fe2 (SO4)3)
Authors: Madai Ismail J. , Chande Jande Yusufu Abeid , Kivevele Thomas
Published: August 2020

Biodiesel is a possible remedy to the present toxic, finite sources and ever‐diminishing crude fuels. Nonedible and locally available (Azadirachta indica) neem seed oil (NSO) as a second‐generation feedstock was transformed into biodiesel using calcined banana ash (CBA) derived from banana peels blended with lithium calcium oxide iron (III) sulphate Li‐CaO/Fe2 (SO4)3 catalyzed transesterification. Transesterification process was employed to minimize the free fatty acid (FFA) content of NSO to afford 99.8% yield under the condition of the reaction oil/methanol ratio 8 : 1, followed by addition of 1.7%wt calcined banana peels ash and 1.3%wt Li‐CaO/Fe2(SO4)3 catalysts in 53 min, a notable time. It is important to note that the physicochemical properties of biodiesel in this study such as initial boiling points, flash point, pour point, cloud point, density, kinematic viscosity, final boiling points, and cetane index met ASTM D‐6751 and EN 14214 standards. Decomposition profile of CBA was displayed by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), whereas in‐depth analysis by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence (X‐RF), and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) revealed that the high efficiency displayed by a catalyst from banana ash calcined at 650°C was due to the presence of potassium carbonate (K2CO3), a calcium magnesium silicate (CaMgSiO4), and potassium sodium sulphate (KNaSO4) contents that accounted for the high basicity of up to 11.09. Additionally, the nitrogen adsorption/desorption studies revealed that CBA interestingly exhibits a high BET surface area of 411.2 m2/g and promising mesopores (3.014 nm). The catalyst also displayed better recyclability evidenced by the fact that it was able to be reused after five successive runs with better recyclability of 75%. Based on the aforementioned properties, this work, therefore, opens an avenue for developing a supreme heterogeneous catalyst from available banana peels ash.
Protective Effects of Thalidomide on High-Glucose-Induced Podocyte Injury through In Vitro Modulation of Macrophage M1/M2 Differentiation
Authors: Liao Hui , Li Yuanping , Zhang Xilan , Zhao Xiaoyun , Zheng Dan , Shen Dayue , Li Rongshan
Published: August 2020

Objective. It has been shown that podocyte injury represents an important pathological basis that contributes to proteinuria and eventually leads to kidney failure. High glucose (HG) activates macrophage polarization, further exacerbating HG-induced podocyte injury. Our previous study on diabetic nephropathy rats indicated that thalidomide (Tha) has renoprotective properties. The present study explored the effects of Tha on mRNA and protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, mannose receptor (CD206), and arginase- (Arg-) 1 in HG-activated macrophages. iNOS and TNF-α are established as markers of classically activated macrophage (M1). CD206 and Arg-1 are regarded as markers of alternatively activated macrophages (M2). During the experiment, the supernatants of (HG)-treated and (Tha)-treated macrophages, designated as (HG) MS and (Tha) MS, were simultaneously collected and processed. TNF-α and interleukin- (IL-) 1β levels as well as protein expressions of nephrin and podocin in HG, (HG) MS, and (Tha) MS-cultured podocytes were evaluated. The results showed that compared to the 11.1 mM normal glucose (NG), the 33.3 mM HG-cultured RAW 264.7 cells exhibited upregulated iNOS and TNF-α mRNAs and protein expressions, and downregulated CD206 and Arg-1 expressions significantly (p<0.05). Tha 200 μg/ml suppressed iNOS and TNF-α, and promoted CD206 and Arg-1 expressions significantly compared to the HG group (p<0.05). Furthermore, (HG) MS-treated podocytes showed an increase in TNF-α and IL-1β levels and a downregulation in nephrin and podocin expression significantly compared to NG-treated and HG-treated podocytes (p<0.05). The (Tha 200 μg/ml) MS group exhibited a decrease in TNF-α and IL-1β level, and an upregulation in nephrin and podocin expressions significantly compared to the (HG) MS group (p<0.05). Our research confirmed that HG-activated macrophage differentiation aggravates HG-induced podocyte injury in vitro and the protective effects of Tha might be related to its actions on TNF-α and IL-1β levels via its modulation on M1/M2 differentiation.
Noncoding RNAs in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Potential Diagnosis and Prognosis Biomarkers
Authors: Khalifa Olfa , Errafii Khaoula , Al-Akl Nayla S. , Arredouani Abdelilah
Published: August 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most common chronic liver disease worldwide in part due to the concomitant obesity pandemic and insulin resistance (IR). It is increasingly becoming evident that NAFLD is a disease affecting numerous extrahepatic vital organs and regulatory pathways. The molecular mechanisms underlying the nonalcoholic steatosis formation are poorly understood, and little information is available on the pathways that are responsible for the progressive hepatocellular damage that follows lipid accumulation. Recently, much research has focused on the identification of the epigenetic modifications that contribute to NAFLD pathogenesis. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are one of such epigenetic factors that could be implicated in the NAFLD development and progression. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the genetic and epigenetic factors potentially underlying the disease. Particular emphasis will be put on the contribution of microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) to the pathophysiology of NAFLD as well as their potential use as therapeutic targets or as markers for the prediction and the progression of the disease.
Research of Method for Improving Antifreeze‐Thaw Performance Based on Asphalt Mixture Freeze‐Thaw Damage Development Process
Authors: Sun Yazhen , Deng Man , Ye Youlin , Gao Lin , Zhang Huaizhi , Ma Zuoxin
Published: August 2020

To improve the antifreeze‐thaw performance of asphalt pavement in the seasonal freezing regions, the temperature and the time of freeze‐thaw test were redesigned based on the climatic characteristics of the regions, and the splitting tensile strength tests were carried out to determine the low‐temperature performance of the asphalt mixture under the influence of the gradation and the asphalt‐aggregate ratio. A mathematical model was built to investigate the freeze‐thaw damage law. According to the test results of splitting tensile strength of the asphalt mixture under freeze‐thaw cycles, the probabilistic damage variable of the asphalt mixture was redefined and a physical probability model was built to analyse the freeze‐thaw damage. Based on the freeze‐thaw damage development process and the mechanism of the asphalt mixture, the effective measures to improve the antifreeze‐thaw performance were provided and demonstrated through the correlations among the damage parameters (the shape parameter α, the scale factor λ, and the gradient factor ν) and the freeze‐thaw resistance of the asphalt mixture. The test results showed that the splitting tensile strength decreased with the increase of the number of the freeze‐thaw cycles. With the same gradation, the splitting freeze‐thaw damage degree of the asphalt mixture with 5.8% asphalt‐aggregate ratio is about 6% less than others after the 18th freeze‐thaw cycle. The freeze‐thaw resistance increases with the asphalt‐aggregate ratio. With the same asphalt‐aggregate ratio, the splitting freeze‐thaw damage degree of S‐grade mixtures is about 11.8% higher than that of Z‐grade mixtures. S‐grade mixtures have positive effects on the freeze‐thaw resistance. The results suggest new measures for further investigation on the design and maintenance of the asphalt mixture in the seasonal freezing regions.
Visualization of Coalescence of Multiple Small Bubbles with Closed B-Spline Curve
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Li Hongjun
Published: August 2020

The smoothness of surface shape is one of the key issues to simulate coalescence of underwater bubbles. In this paper, B-spline closed curve is used to realize the visual simulation of multibubble coalescence. The main idea of the proposed algorithm is to construct a continuous bubble deformation which is guided by the normal direction of each control point and weighted by the distance from the point to the geometry center of the contour. The advantages of this algorithm include the smoothness of the bubble contour in the processing of deformation and the randomness of dynamic process and coalescence process. Experiment results show that the simulation algorithm works well and can be used in 3D computer games and animations.
Reappraisal of Gestational Weight Gain Recommendations in Obese Pregnant Women: A Population-Based Study of 337,590 Births
Authors: Devlieger Roland , Ameye Lieveke , Nuyts Tinne , Goemaes Régine , Bogaerts Annick
Published: August 2020

Background and Objective: Maternal obesity is an epidemic health problem that is aggravated by excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) and postpartum weight retention. Current US Institute of Medicine (now US National Academy of Medicine) guidelines (2009) for GWG need to be evaluated against the current rise in obesity in the general and pregnant population. We wanted to study the relation between GWG and pregnancy and birth outcomes and to relate this to the current recommendations for GWG. Methods: Population-based study. We performed an epidemiological analysis in a cohort of Belgian pregnant women with singleton live births at term (≥37 weeks) between 2009 and 2014 (n = 337,590). Logistic regression was used to determine the optimal GWG in relation to relevant pregnancy and birth outcomes. Results: The prevalence of maternal obesity significantly increased from 10.3% in 2009 to 11.4% in 2014. The mean (SD) body mass index at the start of the pregnancy significantly increased from 23.9 (4.5) in 2009 to 24.2 (4.6) in 2014. Excessive GWG was frequent, especially in overweight (56.8%) and obese (52.9%) pregnant women. In the logistic regression model, the amount of GWG associated with the lowest incidence of both large-for-gestational-age and small-for-gestational-age infants was 21 kg in underweight women, 14 kg in normal weight, 8 kg in overweight, 0 kg in obese class I, –4 kg in obese class II and –5 kg in obese class III. Conclusion: The prevalence of maternal obesity has risen in Belgium between 2009 and 2014. Current GWG guidelines, based on historic observational data, are probably too liberal for class II and III obese women in which better outcomes are being predicted for lower weight gain than recommended.
Effects of Resistive Jaw-Opening Exercise with Elastic Resistance Bands on Suprahyoid Muscle Activation and Tongue Strength in the Elderly: A Pilot Study
Authors: Oh Jong-Chi
Published: August 2020

Background: The jaw-opening exercise (JOE) is designed to strengthen the suprahyoid muscles. However, it is difficult to apply this strength-training exercise to subjects in a systematic fashion. Objective: This study examined the effect of resistive JOE on suprahyoid muscle activity and tongue strength in the elderly through the use of an elastic band. Methods: Eight elderly people aged ≥65 years participated in this study. Participants wore an elastic loop around their head and mandible. The strength of the elastic loop used was adjusted based on the participant’s sex, and the same strength loop was used for 8 weeks. Participants were required to open their jaw maximally, maintain the position for 10 s, and then rest for 10 s. This process was repeated for 10 min. There was then a rest period of 2 min before subjects began another 10-min exercise set. All participants performed the exercise twice weekly for 8 weeks. All subjects were tested for suprahyoid muscle activation during typical/effortful swallowing as well as isometric tongue pressures and endurances at baseline and at 9 weeks. Results: After 8 weeks of exercise, the isometric maximum tongue-base pressure and tongue endurance were significantly improved. However, the swallowing tongue pressure and suprahyoid muscle activation levels had not changed significantly. Conclusion: This study confirmed that consistent resistance, which provides the same resistance throughout a resistive JOE exercise, is inadequate to reliably improve the muscle strength of swallowing-related muscles. Subsequent research should consider this and plan more efficient exercise programs.