bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and clinical implications of respiratory viruses in stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and exacerbations: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Kefala Anastasia M , Fortescue Rebecca , Alimani Gioulinta S , Kanavidis Prodromos , McDonnell Melissa Jane , Magiorkinis Emmanouil , Megremis Spyridon , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Voyiatzaki Chrysa , Mathioudakis Georgios A , Papageorgiou Effie , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G , Vestbo Jørgen , Beloukas Apostolos , Mathioudakis Alexander G
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Both stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute exacerbations represent leading causes of death, disability and healthcare expenditure. They are complex, heterogeneous and their mechanisms are poorly understood. The role of respiratory viruses has been studied extensively but is still not adequately addressed clinically. Through a rigorous evidence update, we aim to define the prevalence and clinical burden of the different respiratory viruses in stable COPD and exacerbations, and to investigate whether viral load of usual respiratory viruses could be used for diagnosis of exacerbations triggered by viruses, which are currently not diagnosed or treated aetiologically.

Methods and analysis

Based on a prospectively registered protocol, we will systematically review the literature using standard methods recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation working group. We will search Medline/PubMed, Excerpta Medica dataBASE (EMBASE), the Cochrane Library, the WHO’s Clinical Trials Registry and the proceedings of relevant international conferences on 2 March 2020. We will evaluate: (A) the prevalence of respiratory viruses in stable COPD and exacerbations, (B) differences in the viral loads of respiratory viruses in stable COPD vs exacerbations, to explore whether the viral load of prevalent respiratory viruses could be used as a diagnostic biomarker for exacerbations triggered by viruses and (C) the association between the presence of respiratory viruses and clinical outcomes in stable COPD and in exacerbations.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required since no primary data will be collected. Our findings will be presented in national and international scientific conferences and will be published in peer reviewed journals. Respiratory viruses currently represent a lost opportunity to improve the outcomes of both stable COPD and exacerbations. Our work aspires to ‘demystify’ the prevalence and clinical burden of viruses in stable COPD and exacerbations and to promote clinical and translational research.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019147658.
Evolution and domestication ofTc1/marinertransposons in the genome of African coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae)
Authors: Gao Bo , Sang Yatong , Zong Wencheng , Diaby Mohamed , Shen Dan , Wang Saisai , Wang Yali , Chen Cai , Song Chengyi
Published: April 2020

Here, we comprehensively analysed the abundance, diversity, and activity of Tc1/mariner transposons in African coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae). Fifteen Tc1/mariner autonomous transposons were identified and grouped into six clades: DD34E/Tc1, DD34D/mariner, DD35D/Fot, DD31D/pogo, DD30-31D/pogo-like, and DD32–36D/Tigger, belonging to three known families: DD34E/Tc1, DD34D/mariner, and DD×D/pogo (DD35D/Fot, DD31D/pogo, DD30-31D/pogo-like, and DD32-36D/Tigger). Thirty-one miniature inverted-repeat transposable element (MITE) transposons of Tc1/mariner were also identified, and 20 of them display similarity to the identified autonomous transposons. The structural organization of these full Tc1/mariner elements includes a transposase gene flanked by terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) with TA dinucleotides. The transposases contain N-terminal DNA binding domain and a C-terminal catalytic domain characterized by the presence of a conservative D(Asp)DE(Glu)/D triad that is essential for transposase activity. The Tc1/mariner superfamily in coelacanth exhibited very low genome coverage (0.3%), but it experienced an extraordinary difference of proliferation dynamics among the six clades identified; moreover, most of them exhibited a very recent and current proliferation, suggesting that some copies of these transposons are putatively active. Additionally, at least four functional genes derived from Tc1/mariner transposons were found. We provide an up-to-date overview of Tc1/mariner in coelacanth, which may be helpful in determining genome and gene evolution in this living fossil.
The septate junction protein Tetraspanin 2A is critical to the structure and function of Malpighian tubules in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Beyenbach Klaus W. , Schöne Frederike , Breitsprecher Leonhard F. , Tiburcy Felix , Furuse Mikio , Izumi Yasushi , Meyer Heiko , Jonusaite Sima , Rodan Aylin R. , Paululat Achim
Published: April 2020

Tetraspanin-2A (Tsp2A) is an integral membrane protein of smooth septate junctions in Drosophila melanogaster. To elucidate its structural and functional roles in Malpighian tubules, we used the c42-GAL4/UAS system to selectively knock down Tsp2A in principal cells of the tubule. Tsp2A localizes to smooth septate junctions (sSJ) in Malpighian tubules in a complex shared with partner proteins Snakeskin (Ssk), Mesh, and Discs large (Dlg). Knockdown of Tsp2A led to the intracellular retention of Tsp2A, Ssk, Mesh, and Dlg, gaps and widening spaces in remaining sSJ, and tumorous and cystic tubules. Elevated protein levels together with diminished V-type H+-ATPase activity in Tsp2A knockdown tubules are consistent with cell proliferation and reduced transport activity. Indeed, Malpighian tubules isolated from Tsp2A knockdown flies failed to secrete fluid in vitro. The absence of significant transepithelial voltages and resistances manifests an extremely leaky epithelium that allows secreted solutes and water to leak back to the peritubular side. The tubular failure to excrete fluid leads to extracellular volume expansion in the fly and to death within the first week of adult life. Expression of the c42-GAL4 driver begins in Malpighian tubules in the late embryo and progresses upstream to distal tubules in third instar larvae, which can explain why larvae survive Tsp2A knockdown and adults do not. Uncontrolled cell proliferation upon Tsp2A knockdown confirms the role of Tsp2A as tumor suppressor in addition to its role in sSJ structure and transepithelial transport.
Aquaporin-3 in the epidermis: more than skin deep
Authors: Bollag Wendy B. , Aitkens Lorry , White Joseph , Hyndman Kelly A.
Published: April 2020

The skin is essential for terrestrial life. It is responsible for regulating water permeability and functions as a mechanical barrier that protects against environmental insults such as microbial infection, ultraviolet light, injury, and heat and cold, which could damage the cells of the body and compromise survival of the organism. This barrier is provided by the outer layer, the epidermis, which is composed predominantly of keratinocytes; keratinocytes undergo a program of differentiation to form the stratum corneum comprising the cornified squame “bricks” and lipid “mortar.” Dysregulation of this differentiation program can result in skin diseases, including psoriasis and nonmelanoma skin cancers, among others. Accumulating evidence in the literature indicates that the water-, glycerol-, and hydrogen peroxide-transporting channel aquaporin-3 (AQP3) plays a key role in various processes involved in keratinocyte function, and abnormalities in this channel have been observed in several human skin diseases. Here, we discuss the data linking AQP3 to keratinocyte proliferation, migration, differentiation, and survival as well as its role in skin properties and functions like hydration, water retention, wound healing, and barrier repair. We also discuss the mechanisms regulating AQP3 levels, localization, and function and the anomalies in AQP3 that are associated with various skin diseases.
Reaching around obstacles accounts for uncertainty in coordinate transformations
Authors: Abedi Khoozani Parisa , Voudouris Dimitris , Blohm Gunnar , Fiehler Katja
Published: April 2020

We show that changing body geometry such as head roll results in compensatory reaching behaviors around obstacles. Specifically, we observed head roll causes changed preferred movement direction and increased trajectory curvature. As has been shown before, head roll increases movement variability due to stochastic coordinate transformations. Thus these results provide evidence that the brain must consider the added movement variability caused by coordinate transformations for accurate reach movements.
Impairment but not abolishment of express saccades after unilateral or bilateral inactivation of the frontal eye fields
Authors: Dash Suryadeep , Peel Tyler R. , Lomber Stephen G. , Corneil Brian D.
Published: April 2020

Express saccades are the shortest-latency saccade. The frontal eye fields (FEF) are thought to promote express saccades by presetting the superior colliculus. Here, by reversibly inactivating the FEF either unilaterally or bilaterally via cortical cooling, we support this by showing that the FEF plays a facilitative but not critical role in express saccade generation. We also found that FEF inactivation lowered express saccade peak velocity, emphasizing a contribution of the FEF to express saccade kinematics.
Hybrid-Driven Mechanism Based on Uncertain Network for Markov Jump System with Quantizations and Delay
Authors: Tan Tian , Gao Jinfeng , Wang Jinxia , Zhao Zhen , Ma Miao
Published: April 2020

This paper investigates the hybrid-driven mechanism problem for Markov jump system, where both channel quantization (BCQ) and network-induced delay based on uncertain network are considered. Firstly, comparing with the traditional event-triggered scheme, a hybrid-driven mechanism is employed in networked control systems (NCSs) for the finite capacity of communication bandwidth resources and system performance in equilibrium. Then, the quantization technology is applied in the communication channel from sensor-to-controller and controller-to-actuator. The application of BCQ is for further investigation that mitigate data packet transmission rate. Thirdly, Markov jump system is modeled for the hybrid-driven mechanism and network-induced delay. By constructing the Lyapunov–Krasovskii function, a sufficient condition is derived as the stability criterion, and the controller is designed in which the nonlinear term is rewritten for simplifying the calculation. Finally, two simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Nomogram for Predicting Long-Term Survival after Synchronous Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombosis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Bai Yannan , Wu Jiayi , Zeng Yong , Chen Jie , Wang Shuangjia , Chen Shi , Qiu Funan , Zhou Songqiang , You Shen , Tian Yifeng , Wang Yaodong , Yan Maolin
Published: April 2020

Background. Although surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT) may improve survival for some patients, prognostic markers remain elusive because of its rarity. We constructed a prognostic nomogram which predicts individualized survival benefit of curative-intent surgery for HCC patients with IVCTT.Methods. According to abdominothoracic anatomy of inferior vena cava (IVC), IVCTT can be divided into 3 types: inferior diaphragmic (ID), superior diaphragmic (SD), and intracardiac type (IC). Data of 64 HCC patients with IVCTT who underwent curative-intent surgery between 2008 and 2015 in four centers in China were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to select variables for the construction of a prognostic nomogram. Predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were examined by concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve.Results. Of 64 patients in the IVCTT classification, 37 (57.8%) were classified as ID type, 15 (23.4%) as SD type, and 12 (18.8%) as IC type. The 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates for patients in ID, SD, and IC groups were 94.4%, 55.6%, 71.4%, and 30.0%; 27.8%, 21.4%, 7.1%, and 0%; and 8.3%, 0%, 0%, and 0%, respectively. Independent factors included in the nomogram were ECOG performance status, AFP level ≥ 400 μg/L, tumor size ≥ 10 cm, portal vein tumor thrombosis, and IVCTT classification. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.812 (95% CI 0.761–0.873). The calibration plot for DSS probability showed excellent agreement between the prediction by nomogram and actual observation.Conclusions. Curative-intent surgery should be carefully evaluated and suggested according to our novel IVCTT classification. We have developed a visual web-based nomogram model to predict oncological prognosis of curative-intent surgery for HCC patients with IVCTT.
Microstructure Evolution of Cold Pilgering Stainless Steel Tubes
Authors: Dai Jia , Li Wei , Chu Zhibing
Published: April 2020

The 347 stainless steel tube cold rolling test was carried out by a LG60 two‐roll pilger mill. The microstructure evolution was examined by microscope, SEM, and XRD tests. The finite element software DEFORM‐3D has been used to simulate the pilgering process, and the obtained equivalent stress and metal flow were analyzed. The experimental results showed that the internal slip line was randomly distributed, the deformation of the inner wall was more intense than the outer wall structure, and the austenite γ phase was transformed into the α′‐martensitic phase. The simulation results indicated that the direction of metal flow was constantly changing, and the equivalent stress of the inner wall of the steel tube was greater than the equivalent stress of the outer wall. In addition, the slip zone of the inner wall of the characteristic section was more severe than that near the outer wall slip zone. The simulation verified the experimental results to some extent.
Polyethylene and Polyvinyl Chloride-Blended Polystyrene Nanofibrous Sorbents and Their Application in the Removal of Various Oil Spills
Authors: Alnaqbi Mohamed. A. , Al Blooshi Afra G. , Greish Yaser E.
Published: April 2020

Polymers provide a wide range of properties, and these properties can be greatly enhanced and modified through polymer blending. Polymer blending combines the properties and advantages of their original polymers. This paper showcases hydrophobic polymers prepared through polymer blending; these blends are characterized and evaluated for their efficiency in the removal of crude oil spills from aqueous media. The application of these blends holds a great deal of importance in preserving the environment and the recovery of lost oil in spills. The blends are produced using polystyrene (PS) as the matrix polymer and individually blending poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) with the PS consisting of proportions of 5–20 wt.% each. The blends are then electrospun into bead-free microfibers with interconnected porosities as shown by their respective scanned electron micrographs. All fibrous sorbents showed a high affinity towards the removal of crude oil, motor oil, and diesel spills. The highly viscous motor spill showed a different pattern of sorption onto fibers than that of crude oil and diesel spills. Upon comparing all the studied electrospun fibers to commercially available polypropylene fibrous sorbents, results show that the sorption efficiency of the electrospun fibers is superior. Most notably, both PS-PE5 and PS-PVC5 fibers showed to be highly more effective than commercially available polypropylene (PP) sorbents towards all types of oil spills.
Numerical Modeling of Seismic Responses and Seismic Measures of Tunnel Crossing a Fault Zone: A Case Study
Authors: Li Lin , Xian Liping , Yao Chaofan , Guo Deping , Liu Chengliang
Published: April 2020

The investigation shows that Longxi Tunnel, across a fault zone, was severely damaged during the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, China. In this paper, the dynamic time history analysis method is used to study the seismic response characteristics of Longxi Tunnel and the aseismic effect of seismic measures. The interfaces of the fault are simulated by bonded interfaces. The results show that high earthquake intensity, high in situ stress, and fault zone are the main reasons for damage of Longxi Tunnel. The inconsistent motion response between the normal surrounding rocks and surrounding rocks within the fault zone resulted in the damage of Longxi Tunnel, and the maximum displacement difference reaches 50 cm. With the seismic measure by setting shake absorb layer and seismic joints, the tunnel has better performance: the maximum peak internal force of the tunnel structure is reduced by about 26% and the acceleration is reduced by 30%. Seismic measures should not only be considered within fault zones but also extend to adjacent surrounding rocks. In this study, the fault seismic measures of Longxi Tunnel should be no less than 4.0 times the tunnel diameter.
Usage Patterns of Cosmetic and Personal Care Products among Female Population in Saudi Arabia: Important Factors for Exposure and Risk Assessment
Authors: Shaaban Heba , Alhajri Wejdan
Published: April 2020

Reliable data regarding the usage patterns of personal care products (PCPs) are needed to determine the health risks posed by the ingredients of these products such as parabens, phthalates, and bisphenol A. There are no published data regarding the consumption patterns of PCPs in the Middle East in general and in Saudi Arabia in particular. To fill this gap, this study aimed to assess important factors such as the percentage of users and the frequency of use and co-use of twenty-three cosmetic and PCPs among the female population in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, this study aimed to assess the common cosmetic-related adverse events among the participants. The studied products included general hygiene, hair care, skin care, makeup, fragrances, and other products. The data were collected from 709 female participants of different age groups through a digital questionnaire. It was found that eighteen of the investigated products are consumed by at least 50% of the respondents. The frequency of use of PCPs varied over a wide range. Cosmetic-related adverse events were experienced by 16.1% of the participants. Use frequencies of many hygiene and makeup products were correlated with each other. This study provides, for the first time, baseline data on the usage patterns of a large number of widely consumed PCPs among female population pertaining to several sociodemographic strata. Such information is crucial for exposure and risk assessment and also needed for updating the current knowledge on usage of PCPs in Saudi Arabia.
Switching from Neutral Protamine Hagedorn Insulin to Insulin Glargine 300 U/mL Improves Glycaemic Control and Reduces Hypoglycaemia Risk: Results of a Multicentre, Prospective, Observational Study
Authors: Wolnik B. , Wiza D. , Szczepanik T. , Syta A. , Klupa T.
Published: April 2020

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and is an important public health issue. A significant proportion of insulin-treated patients with T2DM do not reach target glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) values, which ultimately increases their risk of long-term microvascular and macrovascular complications. One potential option to improve diabetes control in these patients may be the use of new insulin formulations including second-generation basal insulin analogues such as insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300). Several published randomised controlled trials have assessed the clinical effectiveness of Gla-300, mostly versus insulin glargine 100 U/mL as well as insulin degludec. However, there is limited information about the real-world effectiveness of Gla-300 when patients are transitioned directly from neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) human basal insulin. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Gla-300, defined as the percentage of participants with an HbA1c reduction of ≥0.5%, 6 months after switching from NPH insulin, in participants with T2DM. Secondary objectives included the safety assessment based on the percentage of patients experiencing ≥1 episodes and the number of hypoglycaemic episodes by category: severe, symptomatic, symptomatic confirmed, diurnal or nocturnal, change in body weight, and insulin dose. A total of 469 participants completed the 6-month observation period. Mean baseline HbA1c was 9.19%. The percentage of participants with a ≥0.5% improvement in HbA1c from baseline was 71.7% at 6 months. Mean HbA1c decreased at 3 and 6 months by 0.77% (±0.98) and 1.01% (±1.12), respectively (p<0.00001 versus baseline), while fasting glycaemia decreased by 32 mg/dL and 37 mg/dL, respectively (p<0.00001 versus baseline). There were moderate increases in the doses of both Gla-300 and, if used, short-acting insulins during the 6 months of observation. The percentage of participants with ≥1 hypoglycaemia event during the preceding 4 weeks decreased significantly from baseline to 3 and 6 months, as did the proportion with symptomatic hypoglycaemia at night (p<0.00001 versus baseline). No participants had severe hypoglycaemia after a switch to Gla-300. Body mass, waist and hip circumferences, and waist : hip ratio did not change significantly. In conclusion, this large, prospective, observational study demonstrated that switching from NPH insulin to Gla-300 resulted in a significant improvement in HbA1c, with only a moderate increase in insulin dose, a decreased risk of hypoglycaemia, and no increase in body weight.
Gain-of-Function Genetic Alterations of G9a Drive Oncogenesis
Authors: Kato Shinichiro , Weng Qing Yu , Insco Megan L. , Chen Kevin Y. , Muralidhar Sathya , Pozniak Joanna , Diaz Joey Mark S. , Drier Yotam , Nguyen Nhu , Lo Jennifer A. , van Rooijen Ellen , Kemeny Lajos V. , Zhan Yao , Feng Yang , Silkworth Whitney , Powell C. Thomas , Liau Brian B. , Xiong Yan , Jin Jian , Newton-Bishop Julia , Zon Leonard I. , Bernstein Bradley E. , Fisher David E.
Published: April 2020

Epigenetic regulators, when genomically altered, may become driver oncogenes that mediate otherwise unexplained pro-oncogenic changes lacking a clear genetic stimulus, such as activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway in melanoma. This study identifies previously unrecognized recurrent activating mutations in the G9a histone methyltransferase gene, as well as G9a genomic copy gains in approximately 26% of human melanomas, which collectively drive tumor growth and an immunologically sterile microenvironment beyond melanoma. Furthermore, the WNT pathway is identified as a key tumorigenic target of G9a gain-of-function, via suppression of the WNT antagonist DKK1. Importantly, genetic or pharmacologic suppression of mutated or amplified G9a using multiple in vitro and in vivo models demonstrates that G9a is a druggable target for therapeutic intervention in melanoma and other cancers harboring G9a genomic aberrations.

Significance:

Oncogenic G9a abnormalities drive tumorigenesis and the “cold” immune microenvironment by activating WNT signaling through DKK1 repression. These results reveal a key druggable mechanism for tumor development and identify strategies to restore “hot” tumor immune microenvironments.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 890
Effect of Lifestyle Interventions in Obese Pregnant Women on the Neurocognitive Development and Anthropometrics of Preschool Children
Authors: Braeken Marijke Anne Katrien Alberta , Bogaerts Annick
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Maternal obesity and excessive gestational weight gain are related to adverse outcomes in women and children. Lifestyle interventions during pregnancy showed positive effects on decreasing weight gain during pregnancy, but effects on offspring’s health and wellbeing are unclear. We aimed to assess the effect of lifestyle intervention programmes on offspring mental health, temperament, eating habits and anthropometric and cardiovascular measures. Methods: Ninety-six offspring of pregnant women with a body mass index (BMI) ≥29 kg/m2 who were randomly assigned to 3 intervention groups during pregnancy (routine antenatal care, a brochure group or a prenatal session group) and 77 offspring of pregnant women with a normal BMI (between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m2) were used as an additional control group in this analysis. When the children were between 3 and 7 years old, anthropometric and cardiovascular measurements were conducted and various questionnaires about offspring mental health, temperament and eating habits were filled out. Results: Children of mothers who received a brochure-based lifestyle intervention programme showed significantly less surgency/extraversion compared to children of mothers who received routine antenatal care (contrast estimate = –0.36, SE = 0.15, p = 0.02, 95% CI [–6.66, –0.06]) and prenatal lifestyle intervention sessions (contrast estimate = –0.46, SE = 0.14, p < 0.01, 95% CI [–0.74, –0.18]) after adjusting for child’s age, sex, offspring birth weight and mother’s educational level. The lifestyle intervention could not be associated with any significant differences in offspring mental health, eating habits and anthropometric and cardiovascular characteristics. Children of mothers with a normal BMI showed less emotional problems (F(1, 156) = 5.42, p = 0.02) and internalizing (F(1, 156) = 3.04, p = 0.08) and externalizing problems (F(1, 156) = 6.10, p = 0.02) when compared to children of mothers in the obese group. Discussion/Conclusion: The results suggest that a brochure-based lifestyle intervention programme can affect the offspring temperament. Future follow-up studies need to investigate how these temperament-related effects may influence obesity development later in life.
RESEARCH COMPETENCY AT THE UNDERGRADUATE LEVEL OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Khaniukov O. O. , Sapozhnichenko L. V. , Smolyanova O. V.
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to provide a justification for the introduction of “research competency” concept and to describe the ways of its formation among students of higher medical institution, based on the experience of the Students' Scientific Society (SSS) work at the Department of Internal Medicine 3 of State Institution “Dnipropetrovsk Medical Academy of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine”. The need to implement the research competency in the medical students training is substantiated in this article on the base of current legislation of Ukraine and today's requirements. A SSS work at a clinical department is analysed as one of the possible ways of the research competency acquisition, with the aspects that contributes to the development of the desired skills as well as those that may impede its mastery. Research work is a powerful impetus to the motivation to learn, as it directs students to scientific research. During working at SSS, students learn how to make a literary search, critically assimilate and assess of primary research literature and formulate a scientific problem, which require solution. At next step, they choose and apply the appropriate research methods that could be used in solving this problem. And finally, participants comprehend the statistics and process the obtained data followed by their scientific papers presentation in literary scientific sources or conferences. The work at SSS helps graduates be more competitive in today's job market as it brings up and cultivates professionally required qualities, including teamwork, ability to manage time and workload properly, an understanding of medical ethics and a range of communication skills. Currently, working in a SSS remains one of the best available options for introduction of the research competency in the training of the medical students, but it does not provide complete involvement of all undergraduate students, as required by the law of Ukraine.
PECULIARITIES OF FUTURE PE TEACHERS’ TRAINING AT THE HIGHER EDUCATIONAL ESTABLISHMENT
Authors: Fedchyshyn N. O. , Yelahina N. I.
Published: April 2020

It has been considered the principles of professional training of future PE teachers. The modern challenges in the professional training of future PE teachers at the higher education institutions are analyzed; the main directions of introduction of pedagogical technologies in the process of vocational training are specified. The article emphasizes the need for systematic introduction of innovative and information technologies, content updating, use of new forms, tools, methods and principles of education in the educational process of the higher educational institutions in order to improve the quality of future PE teachers’ professional training. It is established that the system of physical education at the higher schools faces the fact that it is necessary to go beyond the traditional activity of teachers at these establishments, and therefore requires a social and psychological rethinking of the system of teaching and the proposed amount of knowledge.
PROJECT METHOD: PAST AND FUTURE
Authors: Protsyk H. M.
Published: April 2020

The issues of the “project method” in the context of the past and the prospects for further use in the educational process have been considered. It has been suggested the interpretation of the terms “project”, “method”, “project method” based on the generalization of definitions of many researchers. It has also been found out that a project is a comprehensive way of exploring different topics as while working on one main topic, others, which are no less important, are identified in the course of the activity and in-depth study of the issue. It has been indicated the effectiveness of the “project method”, its dependence on the level of preparation due to the subject of study since the participants must possess certain skills and experience for its implementation. The main stages of the project-based learning process are outlined. It has been highlighted the role of the teacher in project training. It is emphasized that the teacher performs contemplative and directing functions while executing the project, and his main goal is to create a working atmosphere that is comfortable for all participants. It is noted that the project method, like any other method used in the educational process, has both advantages and disadvantages. The information about the founder of William Kilpatrick's “project method” is given. It has been emphasized that W. Kilpatrick suggested organizing the educational process as an appropriate activity in the social environment, focused on the enrichment of individual experience. Information on “smart cards” and their relation to the “project method” is presented. It has been stated the essence of reference schemes, which allow to cover a certain issue in the most complete way, help in memorizing, supplementing, associating, visualizing information. It is supposed that the application of this method allows to unite children, learn how to work in a team, develop the ability to express their opinions, formulate a willingness to take different approaches to one topic.
FORMATION OF ORPHOEPIC STUDENTS’ SKILLS AT THE CLASSES OF THE UKRAINIAN LANGUAGE AS FOREIGN
Authors: Sheremeta L. P.
Published: April 2020

The article deals with the system of methodical work on formation of orphoepic abilities and skills in foreign medical students. The content of studying the Ukrainian language has been outlined, the most common orphoepic mistakes and phonetic disorders in their pronunciation have been defined. The ways of formation of appropriate abilities and skills have been described. The system of training exercises for formation of orphoepic foreign students’ literacy has been developed. It has been substantiated that the system of studying the Ukrainian language as foreign involves mastering of speech and language knowledge and formation of communicative abilities and skills that are appropriate for using in the Ukrainian-speaking environment. It has been proved that formation of the Ukrainian language competence of foreign students is based on language training that includes free mastering of professional vocabulary and exchange of knowledge in medical subjects, consideration of topics and discussion on their subject. The main aspects of formation of orphoepic abilities and skills will provide optimization of the process of foreign students’ study in the institutions of higher education of Ukraine and may be used in future development of new methods for assessing the level of vocational training of future medical specialists.
PROFESSIONAL CULTURE IN THE CONTEXT OF FUTURE DOCTOR TRAINING
Authors: Vorona І. І. , Prokop I. A.
Published: April 2020

The paper points out the specifics of medical students’ professional culture formation, analyses its components and conditions. The experience of virtual training programme use in Latin classes for medical students is summarized. Development of professional culture is sure to enrich the man’s inner world, as well as to contribute to his (her) professional development and personal self-improvement. Any person reveals himself (herself) most vividly while interacting with the others in performing professional duties, the outcomes often depending on the proper conduct, speaking, hearing, and language.    

Training of future medical professionals is an element of professional education and is aimed at providing specialists with a certain level of professional skills alongside with the formation of proper professional qualities and development of general personal culture. Medical educational institutions are supposed to provide future specialists with adequate amount of knowledge, necessary for the work in their field and to make them aware of their professional perspectives and able to influence the process actively and effectively. It is in this aspect that the professional culture is involved, that is demeanour, speaking, hearing, and language matching the generally accepted standards and principles, primarily moral, and the requirements set to the particular profession.

Professional culture of the future medical workers is not the sum of professional knowledge, abilities, and skills only, but a part of general spiritual culture that manifests itself in professional competence, readiness for analysis and evaluation of professional and ethical issues, decision-making, communicative skills, as well as conscious striving for self-education, self-development, and constant professional self-perfection. Formation of medical students’ professional culture is a “teacher-student” indissoluble connection based on humanism, creative activity, and common search for new goals and tasks, which increase future specialists’ motivation to attain new peaks in the professional activity.
O que pensam os estudantes sobre a formação profissional em Educação Física
Authors: Fonseca Rubiane Giovani , Lara Larissa Michelle
Published: April 2020

Este estudo teve como propósito verificar o que pensam os estudantes sobre o processo de formação profissional e quais as orientações dos próprios alunos para a seleção de conhecimentos considerados relevantes para subsidiar sua atuação profissional. Para tanto, optamos pela técnica de Grupos Focais, com dois grupos de estudantes de Educação Física da Universidade Estadual de Maringá: um com sete alunos de primeiro ao terceiro ano do curso e o outro constituído por cinco alunos do terceiro e quarto ano do curso. Cada encontro originou material de vídeo e áudio, transcrito e analisado posteriormente de forma a identificar padrões relacionados e aplicados ao problema de estudo. Identificamos duas categorias temáticas: a) Considerações sobre o curso de formação e expectativas para o campo profissional na Educação Física, que retratou o impacto da configuração curricular do curso e o impacto da ação docente na orientação profissional; b) Uso dos conhecimentos pelos estudantes de Educação Física, que descreve as características das redes de conhecimentos estabelecidas pelos estudantes no processo de formação. Tais categorias demonstraram que as demandas no mercado de trabalho levou a área a adaptar seus conteúdos e currículos, embora tais mudanças não tenham refletido nas condições da formação profissional, nem tampouco contemplaram as concepções dos docentes em relação ao ensino profissional, ressaltando fragilidades na lógica da formação universitária.
Drinking dangerously? Young football fans, alcohol and masculinity in Brazil
Authors: Reis Heloisa Helena Baldy dos , Martins Mariana Zuaneti , Spaaij Ramón , Lopes Felipe Tavares Paes
Published: April 2020

This article examines young members of football fan formations known as torcidas organizadas and their relationship with alcohol. This relationship is investigated drawing on a survey undertaken with 804 young football fans in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. The survey results indicate that the percentage of young fans who engage in heavy drinking is considerably higher than that for young Brazilians of the same age in general. Through comparison with young football fans from other countries, it is argued that this high rate is related to the cultural practices of young torcedores, in which drinking ‘dangerously’ is a constitutive element in their construction of masculinity in the football context.
Effects of a Court-Ordered Service Dog Training Program with U.S. Veterans: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Crowe Terry , Sanchez Victoria , Durden Chardae , Ortega y Gomez Margarita , Winkle Melissa , Felice Jill
Published: April 2020

This qualitative study investigated the impacts of a court-ordered service dog training program on justice-involved U.S. veterans. An experienced qualitative research team conducted three focus groups with nine veterans to explore how training service dogs influenced their daily lives. Focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed, and manually coded. Two graduate research assistants developed preliminary themes; the full team generated final themes. Themes illustrated how participation in the program: 1) decreased physical and emotional isolation; 2) assisted veterans with reintegrating into civilian life; 3) improved emotional self-regulation; and 4) helped veterans discover potential; 5) find camaraderie; 6) reconnect with community; and 7) create a sanctuary. In a follow-up session, several participants confirmed that the results accurately captured their experiences. The overall finding suggests the service dog training program served as a rehabilitative process for justice-involved veterans to rediscover their abilities and talents that existed before their experiences in the justice system.
Mabuia wirzi Roux, 1925 (Squamata: Scincidae), an overlooked synonym of Dasia olivacea Gray, 1839, with notes on the synonymy of Dasia olivacea
Authors: SHEA GLENN M. , ISKANDAR DJOKO T.
Published: April 2020

Almost a century ago, the Swiss herpetologist Jean Roux described a new skink species, Mabuia wirzi, from a single specimen from Pulau Nias, an island on the west coast of Sumatra in Indonesia (Roux 1925). The specimen was part of a small collection of reptiles and amphibians made on Nias by the ethnologist Paul Wirz (29.v.1892–1955.i.30), who worked on Nias in 1925 and 1926 (Wirz 1928, 1929). Roux’s paper was published in October 1925, and hence the specimen would have come from Wirz’s first expedition, and would have been only recently preserved at the time of description.
A remarkable new lebiine genus with two new species from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Lebiini)
Authors: KATAEV BORIS M. , MUILWIJK JAN
Published: April 2020

The peculiar lebiine genus Disciferella gen. n. is described as a representative of the subtribe Dromiusina Bonelli, 1810. The genus is very distinct habitually and could be easily recognized among other lebiines already by its appearance. In combination of its distinctive features, it is most similar to the enigmatic monotypic genus Brachynopterus, but distinguished from it by several sufficient characters, including the shape of the gonocoxite which is very characteristic (elongate and slightly arcuate) in the latter genus and typical for Dromiusina (short and wide) in Disciferella gen. n. The new genus includes two newly described species: D. kabakovi sp. n. (type species) from Afghanistan and Pakistan, and D. psammophila sp. n. from south-eastern Iran. The very characteristic habitus of the two new species with their wide discoidal elytra is similar to that of some species of the genera Discoptera Semenov, 1889 and Graphipterus Latreille, 1802 living in sandy habitats. This resemblance suggests a similar specialized mode of life, most likely in sandy deserts and dunes. The systematic position of the new genus is discussed.
Resisting Displacement: Leveraging Interpersonal Ties to Remain despite Criminal Violence in Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Marston Jerome F.
Published: April 2020

Although civilians across the globe are fleeing conflict in record numbers, the reality is that far more remain behind. In addition to traditional wars, people stay in territories governed by criminal organizations. How might individuals threatened with displacement by a criminal gang manage to resist? Drawing on intensive participant observation and interviews in marginal neighborhoods of Medellín, Colombia, I argue that the urban residents most likely to remain despite being at risk of displacement are the “well connected.” Despite threats, they leverage ties to a community figure or member of the armed group to stay. I test a number of related hypotheses using an original survey and survey experiment. Unlike other work stressing that residents are trapped by scant resources or remain only by joining local associations or belligerents, my theory reveals residents’ agency and neutrality as they seek safety and security in conditions of state absence.
Vinyl won’t save us: reframing disconnection as engagement
Authors: Natale Simone , Treré Emiliano
Published: April 2020

Disconnection has recently come to the forefront of public discussions as an antidote to an increasing saturation with digital technologies. Yet, experiences with disconnection are often reduced to a form of disengagement that diminishes their political impact. Disconnective practices focused on health and well-being are easily appropriated by big tech corporations, defusing their transformative potential into the very dynamics of digital capitalism. In contrast, a long tradition of critical thought, from Joseph Weizenbaum to Jaron Lanier passing through hacktivism, demonstrates that engagement with digital technologies is instrumental to develop critique and resistance against the paradoxes of digital societies. Drawing from this tradition, this article proposes the concept of ‘Disconnection-through-Engagement’ to illuminate situated practices that mobilize disconnection in order to improve critical engagement with digital technologies and platforms. Hybridity, anonymity and hacking are examined as three forms of Disconnection-through-Engagement, and a call to decommodify disconnection and recast it as a source of collective critique to digital capitalism is put forward.
Polyurethane Meniscal Scaffold for the Treatment of Partial Meniscal Deficiency: 5-Year Follow-up Outcomes: A European Multicentric Study
Authors: Toanen Cecile , Dhollander Aad , Bulgheroni Paolo , Filardo Giuseppe , Zaffagnini Stefano , Spalding Tim , Monllau Joan Carles , Gelber Pablo , Verdonk Rene , Beaufils Philippe , Pujol Nicolas , Bulgheroni Erica , Asplin Laura , Verdonk Peter
Published: April 2020

Background:

A biodegradable polyurethane scaffold was developed to treat patients with the challenging clinical condition of painful partial meniscal defects.

Hypothesis:

The use of an acellular polyurethane scaffold in patients with symptomatic partial meniscal defects would result in both midterm pain relief and improved function.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 155 patients with symptomatic partial meniscal defects (101 medial and 54 lateral) were implanted with a polyurethane scaffold in a prospective, single-arm, multicentric study with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Clinical outcomes were measured with the visual analog scale for pain, International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee evaluation form, Lysholm knee scale, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score at baseline and at 2- and 5-year follow-ups. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate the knee joint, meniscal implant, and meniscal extrusion. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was also performed. Removal of the scaffold, conversion to a meniscal transplant, and unicompartmental/total knee arthroplasty were used as endpoints.

Results:

Eighteen patients were lost to follow-up (11.6%). The patients who were included in this study showed significant clinical improvement after surgery as indicated by the different outcome measures ( P = .01). However, the clinical improvement tended to stabilize between 2 and 5 years of follow-up. MRI scans of the scaffolds in 56 patients showed a smaller-sized implant in the majority of the cases when compared with the native meniscus with an irregular surface at the 5-year follow-up. During the follow-up period, 87.6% of the implants survived in this study. At 5 years of follow-up, 87.9% of the medial scaffolds were still functioning versus 86.9% of the lateral scaffolds. In total, 23 treatments had failed: 10 removed scaffolds because of breakage, 7 conversions to meniscal allograft transplantation, 4 conversions to unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, and 2 conversions to total knee arthroplasty.

Conclusion:

The polyurethane meniscal implant was able to improve knee joint function and reduce pain in patients with segmental meniscal deficiency over 5 years after implantation. The MRI appearance of this scaffold was different from the original meniscal tissue at the midterm follow-up. The treatment survival rates of 87.9% of the medial scaffolds and 86.9% of the lateral scaffolds in the present study compared favorably with those published concerning meniscal allograft transplantation after total meniscectomy.
A novel variable geometry turbine achieved by elastically restrained nozzle guide vanes
Authors: Wang Zhihui , Ma Chaochen , Huang Zhi , Huang Liyong , Liu Xiang , Wang Zhihong
Published: April 2020

Variable geometry turbocharging is one of the most significant matching methods between turbocharger and engine, and has been proven to provide air boost for entire engine speed range as well as to reduce turbo-lag. An elastically constrained device designed for a novel variable geometry turbocharger was presented in this paper. The design of the device is based on the nozzle vane’s self-adaptation under interactions of the elastic force by elastically restrained guide vane and the aerodynamic force from flowing gas. The vane rotation mechanism of the novel variable geometry turbocharger is different from regular commercial variable geometry turbocharger systems, which is achieved by an active control system (e.g. actuator). To predict the aerodynamic performance of the novel variable geometry turbocharger, the flow field of the turbine was simulated using transient computational fluid dynamics software combined with a fluid–structure interaction method. The results show that the function of elastically constrained device has similar effectiveness as the traditional variable geometry turbocharger. In addition, the efficiency of the novel variable geometry turbocharger is improved at most operating conditions. Furthermore, a turbocharged diesel engine was created using the AVL BOOST software to evaluate the benefits of the new variable geometry turbocharger. The proposed novel variable geometry turbocharger can effectively improve the engine performance at mid-high speeds, such that the maximum decrease of brake-specific fuel consumption reaches 17.91% under 100% load and 3600 r/min engine condition. However, the engine power and brake-specific fuel consumption decrease significantly at low engine speed conditions, and the decrease is more than 26% under 1000 r/min.