bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation Between Event-Related Potential Latency and Saccade Latency in Overt Shifts of Attention
Authors: Kulke Louisa , Atkinson Janette , Braddick Oliver
Published: April 2020

Controlled shifts of attention between competing stimuli are crucial for effective everyday visual behaviour. While these typically involve overt shifts of fixation, many past studies used covert attention shifts in which fixation is unchanged, meaning that some response components may result from the inhibition of eye movements. In this study, the neural events in the human brain when making overt shifts of attention are studied through the combination of event-related potential recording with simultaneous eye tracking. Fixation shifts under competition (central target remains visible when a peripheral target appears) were compared with noncompetition (central target disappears). A longer latency for competition compared with noncompetition, which is found in the saccadic response, is already present in the early occipital positivity when a single target is presented for the fixation shift. These results indicate that the requirement to disengage from a current target affects the time course of neural processing at an early level. However, the relation is more complex when the participant is required to choose which of two targets to fixate.
Intramuscular Brown Fat Activation Decreases Muscle Atrophy and Fatty Infiltration and Improves Gait After Delayed Rotator Cuff Repair in Mice
Authors: Wang Zili , Liu Xuhui , Jiang Kunqi , Kim Hubert , Kajimura Shingo , Feeley Brian T.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Successful repair of large and massive rotator cuff (RC) tears remains a challenge at least partially because of secondary muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration. β3 Adrenergic agonists are a group of drugs that promote fat resorption through “white fat browning” of intramuscular stem cells.

Purpose:

To test the role of a β3 adrenergic receptor agonist, amibegron, in improving muscle quality and forelimb function in a delayed RC repair model via promoting brown/beige adipose tissue activation.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Three-month-old PDGFRα-GFP reporter mice, wild type C57BL/6J mice, and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) knockout mice underwent unilateral supraspinatus tendon transection with a 6-week delayed tendon repair. Animals with sham surgery served as controls. Amibegron was given either immediately after tendon transection or after repair. Gait analysis was conducted to measure forelimb function at 6 weeks after tendon repair. Animals were sacrificed at 6 weeks after repair. Supraspinatus muscles were harvested and analyzed histologically. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify gene expression related to atrophy, fibrosis, and fatty infiltration.

Results:

Histology of PDGFRα reporter mice showed significantly increased UCP-1 expression, suggesting white fat browning in muscle after RC repair. As administered either immediately after tendon transection or after tendon repair, amibegron significantly reduced muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration and resumed normal upper extremity gait in wild type mice. However, the effect of amibegron was not present in UCP-1 knockout mice, suggesting that the effect of amibegron in treating RC muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration is through a UCP 1–dependent mechanism.

Conclusion:

Amibegron reduced muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration and improved forelimb function after delayed RC repair through a UCP 1–dependent mechanism. This may be an effective clinical treatment strategy for patients to improve muscle quality after RC repair.

Clinical Relevance:

β3 Adrenergic agonists may serve as a new pharmacologic modality to treat RC muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration to improve clinical outcome of RC repair.
Dose-Dependent Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma Powder on Chondrocytes In Vitro
Authors: Hahn Olga , Kieb Matthias , Jonitz-Heincke Anika , Bader Rainer , Peters Kirsten , Tischer Thomas
Published: April 2020

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely used in sports medicine. However, neither preparation nor parameters for clinical application, such as concentration, timing, and number of applications, are standardized, making research and clinical utilization challenging.

Purpose:

To investigate the effect of varying doses of PRP powder in terms of different concentrations, timing, and number of applications on human chondrocytes in a reproducible cell culture model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A standardized lyophilized platelet growth factor preparation (PRP powder) was used to stimulate human chondrocytes. Chondrocytes were cultivated for 2 weeks with different stimulation frequencies (2×, 3×, 6×) and different concentrations of PRP powders (0.5%, 1%, 5%). Cell proliferation and metabolic cell activity were analyzed on days 7 and 14. Phenotypic changes were visualized through live-dead staining. Chondrogenic differentiation was quantified with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to assess the synthesis of procollagen types 1 and 2. Furthermore, sulfated proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans were analyzed.

Results:

Human chondrocytes exhibited a significant dose- and time-dependent increase after 14 days in cell number (1% and 5% PRP powder vs unstimulated control: 7.95- and 15.45-fold increase, respectively; 2× vs 6× stimulation with 5% PRP powder: 4.00-fold increase) and metabolic cell activity (1% and 5% PRP powder vs unstimulated control: 3.27-fold and 3.58-fold change, respectively). Furthermore, cells revealed a significant increase in the amount of bone-specific procollagen type 1 (14 days, 1.94-fold) and sulfated glycosaminoglycans (14 days, 2.69-fold); however, no significant change was observed in the amount of cartilage-specific collagen type 2.

Conclusion:

We showed that chondrocytes exhibit a significant dose- and time-dependent increase in cell number and metabolic cell activity. The standardized use of growth factor concentrates in cell culture models can contribute to clinical knowledge in terms of dosage and timing of PRP applications.

Clinical Relevance:

Problems with PRP, such as the absence of standardization, lack of consistency among studies, and unknown dosage, could be solved by using characterized PRP powder made by pooling and lyophilizing multiple platelet concentrates. The innovative PRP powder generates new possibilities for PRP research, as well as for the treatment of patients.
Alternate Approaches to Coping in Latinx Adolescents From Immigrant Families
Authors: Gonzalez Laura M. , Mejia Yesenia , Kulish Andrea , Stein Gabriela Livas , Kiang Lisa , Fitzgerald Deja , Cavanaugh Alyson
Published: April 2020

The aims of this mixed-methods study were (a) to explore quantitatively the fit of the COPE inventory (Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced) for Latinx youth from immigrant families, and (b) to explore qualitatively aspects of coping in this population. Participants were 175 Latinx adolescents (51% female), most of whom were U.S.-born with immigrant parents (88%) and primarily of Mexican origin (89%). The average age was 12.9 years for the quantitative study and 15.7 years for the qualitative study. Qualitative interviews engaged a subset ( n = 14) of the full study. All participants lived in the southeastern United States and the research received institutional review board (IRB) approval. The confirmatory factor analysis of the COPE inventory was not a good fit for the sample. Thus, an exploration of alternative approaches to coping was undertaken (exploratory factor analysis [EFA] and qualitative interviews). A three-factor solution was selected as the best fit in the EFA; the researchers labeled the factors as “purposeful cognitive/behavioral engagement,” “support seeking,” and “separation/disengagement.” In the qualitative interview data, five main themes were described (relational coping, positive thinking/self-talk, planning, separating/disengaging, and behavioral coping). The researchers suggest implications for reframing coping with Latinx participants or collectivist groups, emphasizing the central role of cultural values.
Inhibition of acrolein-induced apoptosis by the antioxidant selenium
Authors: Gökçe Ayşe Başardı , Eren Banu , Sağir Dilek , Yilmaz Burcu Demirel
Published: April 2020

In this study, the effects of a potent antioxidant, selenium, on apoptosis induced by acrolein, a cytotoxic and genotoxic environmental pollutant, were investigated by immunohistochemical and electron microscopic methods. One hundred adult male Wistar albino rats were used in the study. The rats were divided into four main groups: control, acrolein, selenium, and acrolein + selenium. The animals in the experimental groups were given 1 mg/kg/day selenium and 4 mg/kg/day acrolein daily for 7 days by gavage. After drug administration, each group was divided into subgroups according to the time they were to be euthanized: 12th hour, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th day. The rats in each group at the determined time were euthanized and their livers were removed. Routine histological procedures were performed for light and electron microscopy examinations. After applying the Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay on the liver sections, apoptotic index values were calculated. Comparing the liver sections of the rats in the acrolein group and the control group, acrolein was found to cause a significant increase in the apoptotic index. The apoptotic index values of the acrolein + selenium group decreased compared to the acrolein group. In the electron microscopic examinations, apoptotic findings were observed in the liver tissues of the rats given acrolein, such as chromatin condensation in the nucleus of hepatocytes, dilatations in the perinuclear space, and cytoplasmic vacuolization. These apoptotic findings were not observed in the acrolein + selenium group after the 12th hour. These findings show that selenium may potentially be useful as a protective agent for people exposed to acrolein.
The protective effect of vitamin supplementation (E and E + C) on passive avoidance learning and memory during exposure to 900 MHz RFW emitted from BTS
Authors: Azimzadeh Mansour , Jelodar Gholamali
Published: April 2020

Deleterious effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation on public health have been widely studied. This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of vitamin supplementation (E or E + C) on passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory in rats subjected to 900 MHz radiofrequency waves (RFW). Thirty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (190 ± 20 g) were randomly divided into six groups as: control I (vehicle), control II (vitamin E 250 mg/kg), control III (vitamin E 100 mg/kg + l-ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg), and three exposed groups to RFW as: sham-exposed, treatment I (vitamin E), and treatment II (vitamin E + C). The duration of exposure was 30 continuous days (4 h/day). The PAL was evaluated on the last day by the shuttle box. Learning and memory of animals demonstrated as the duration of remaining within the light area, which is called the light time (LT). The sham-exposed group showed a significant decrease in LT on the learning, consolidation, and retention days compared to other groups ( p < 0.05). Pretreatment with vitamins (E and E + C) could protect PAL against adverse effects of RFW, and the administration of vitamin E + C improved PAL performance in control III compared to control I and treatment II groups ( p < 0.05). Administration of vitamin E + C to exposed group (treatment II) caused a significant increase in LT on the learning ( p = 0.013), consolidation, and retention ( p = 0.009) sessions compared to the treatment group I (vitamin E). Long-term exposure to 900 MHz RFW impaired PAL and memory, and pretreatment of vitamin (E or E + C) prevented these effects, which may be a new potential mechanism against side effects of RFW.
Spirometric reference values in the occupational medicine practice
Authors: Cioffi Dante Luigi , Leso Veruscka , Carbone Umberto , Iavicoli Ivo
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Spirometry is the main pulmonary function test routinely employed in the occupational medicine practice. Its interpretation depends on the choice of the theoretical reference values. Therefore, our objective was to retrospectively evaluate the differences in the spirometric interpretation according to the reference values used.

Methods:

A total of 2462 spirometries performed during health surveillance programs were analyzed. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC ratio were compared according to three different reference values: the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) 1971, the European Respiratory Society (ERS) 1993, and the Global Lung Initiative (GLI) 2012.

Results:

The GLI 2012 provided significantly higher predicted mean FVC and FEV1 values compared to the ERS 1993 and significantly lower compared to the ECSC 1971. The GLI 2012 were able to detect all the obstructive deficits and mixed patterns diagnosed with ECSC 1971 and ERS 1993, in addition to others not diagnosed by these two latter reference values. The number of restrictive patterns identified through the GLI 2012 was significantly reduced and increased compared to those diagnosed using the ECSC 1971 and the ERS 1993, respectively.

Discussion:

In comparison to the GLI 2012, the ERS 1993 values significantly underestimated obstructive and restrictive alterations. Conversely, the ECSC 1971 significantly underestimated obstructive changes, while overestimated restrictive patterns, compared to GLI. Although the GLI reference values may provide a correct spirometric interpretation, their validation in an Italian worker population is necessary to confirm their possible use in routine occupational health programs.
The Occurrence of FUS Mutations in Pediatric Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Picher-Martel Vincent , Brunet Francis , Dupré Nicolas , Chrestian Nicolas
Published: April 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease affecting both upper and lower motor neurons and leading to progressive paralysis. Most cases are sporadic, and the symptoms generally begin in the sixth or seventh decade. Juvenile ALS appears in a rare subgroup of patients with onset before the age of 25 years old. Contrary to the classical adult phenotype where 90% of cases are sporadic, most cases of juvenile ALS are caused by a genetic mutation in either SOD1 (superoxide dismutase one), SETX (senataxin), or FUS (fused in sarcoma). In the pediatric population, ALS is more infrequent and rarely considered in the differential diagnosis. There are few reports of ALS in children. Here, we describe a 14-year-old boy with a very fast progressing classical ALS phenotype and tremor caused by a c.1554_1557delACAG mutation in FUS. Our review of the literature advocates that pediatric ALS is highly suggestive of FUS mutations and that gene should be tested in children presenting with symptoms of ALS. The children with FUS-related ALS may have no family history and present initially with learning disabilities, tremor, and mild motor developmental delay.
Preparation and characterization of phthalonitrile resin within hyperbranched structure
Authors: Wang Zi-Long , Liu Xian-Yuan , Han Yue , Guo Ying , Zhou Heng , Wang Jun , Liu Wen-Bin , Zhao Tong
Published: April 2020

In this article, a kind of polyester-type phthalonitrile cyano resin (2,2-bis (((3-((4-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy) benzoyl)oxy)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpropanoyl)oxy)methyl) propane-1,3-diyl)bis(oxy)) bis (2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methyl-3-oxopropane-3, 1-diyl) bis (4-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy) benzoate (hbppn)) with branched structure was introduced. The molecular structure and relative molecular mass of hbppn were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF). The results showed that the synthesized HBPPN contained both polyester and hyperbranched structures. The thermal and rheological properties of HBPPN were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and rheometer, and the results showed that HBPPN would be cured at about 322°C and the viscosity of the resin showed good processability. The results of dynamic mechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis showed that the synthesized resin had good heat resistance. The glass transition temperature was above 329°C, the residual weight ( C y) at 900°C was as high as 66.2% in the nitrogen atmosphere, and the temperature at which the resin lost 5 wt% of heat in air atmosphere was about 423.3°C. The synthesized HBPPN had good comprehensive properties, which could be applied to high-temperature resistant and thermal protection materials.
Handheld near-infrared spectrometers: Where are we heading?
Authors: Beć Krzysztof B , Grabska Justyna , Siesler Heinz W , Huck Christian W
Published: April 2020

During NIR 2019 conference, Gold Coast, Australia, a presentation upon a critical review of instrumentation and applications of handheld spectrometers was delivered during the plenary session held on Thursday morning, 19 September. Following the conference presentation, a vivid discussion flared up among the audience that equally involved academic scholars, industry representatives, as well as professionals who carry out every day in-the-field applications. Various aspects were raised connected with the emerged new generation of near-infrared instrumentation, with many individuals expressing their point-of-view on the merits and pitfalls of the miniaturized spectrometers. This vigorous dispute and exchange of impressions indicated that the community remains concerned about the applicability of such devices. That concern reflects the still relatively shallowly explored miniaturization versus performance factor, which can only be dismissed by focused feasibility studies with comparative analyses carried out on scientific-grade benchtop spectrometers. It is the aim of the present manuscript to summarize the discussed scientific content and to share the developed point-of-view with addition of our remarks.
The Impact of Varying Levels of Advance Care Planning Engagement on Perceptions of the End-of-Life Experience Among Caregivers of Deceased Patients With Cancer
Authors: Levoy Kristin , Buck Harleah , Behar-Zusman Victoria
Published: April 2020

Context:

Advance care planning (ACP) is used to prepare patients and caregivers for future “in the moment” decisions at the end-of-life. Patients with cancer generally do not engage in all 3 components of ACP (documented living will, health-care surrogate, end-of-life discussions); however, little is known about the impact of these varying levels of ACP engagement on caregivers postdeath.

Objective:

To examine the relationship between varying levels of ACP engagement and caregivers’ perceptions of cancer decedents’ end-of-life experiences.

Methods:

A secondary analysis of the 2002 to 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study data using structural equation modeling was conducted. Five levels of ACP engagement were defined: full (discussions/documents), augmented discussions, documents only, discussions only, and no engagement.

Results:

Among the 2172 cancer death cases, the analyzed sample included 983 cases where end-of-life decisions occurred. Compared to no ACP, all levels of ACP were significantly associated with caregivers’ positive perceptions of cancer decedents’ end-of-life experiences ( P ≤ .001), controlling for sex, race, and Hispanic ethnicity ( R 2 = .21). However, the relative impact of each level of ACP engagement was not equal; full engagement (β = .61) was associated with a greater impact compared to each of the partial levels of engagement (augmented discussions [β = .33], documents only [β = .17], discussions only [β = .17]).

Conclusion:

Partial ACP engagement, not just nonengagement, serves as an important clinically modifiable target to improve the end-of-life care experience among patients with cancer and the perceptions of those experiences among bereaved caregivers.
If Human Brain Organoids Are the Answer to Understanding Dementia, What Are the Questions?
Authors: Ooi Lezanne , Dottori Mirella , Cook Anthony L. , Engel Martin , Gautam Vini , Grubman Alexandra , Hernández Damián , King Anna E. , Maksour Simon , Targa Dias Anastacio Helena , Balez Rachelle , Pébay Alice , Pouton Colin , Valenzuela Michael , White Anthony , Williamson Robert
Published: April 2020

Because our beliefs regarding our individuality, autonomy, and personhood are intimately bound up with our brains, there is a public fascination with cerebral organoids, the “mini-brain,” the “brain in a dish”. At the same time, the ethical issues around organoids are only now being explored. What are the prospects of using human cerebral organoids to better understand, treat, or prevent dementia? Will human organoids represent an improvement on the current, less-than-satisfactory, animal models? When considering these questions, two major issues arise. One is the general challenge associated with using any stem cell–generated preparation for in vitro modelling (challenges amplified when using organoids compared with simpler cell culture systems). The other relates to complexities associated with defining and understanding what we mean by the term “dementia.” We discuss 10 puzzles, issues, and stumbling blocks to watch for in the quest to model “dementia in a dish.”
Perioperative Multicomponent Interdisciplinary Program Reduces Delirium Incidence in Elderly Patients With Hip Fracture
Authors: Zhao Xin , Yuan Wei
Published: April 2020

Background

Delirium is common in elderly patients with hip fracture. Although several multicomponent care pathways have been developed, few nurse-led perioperative multicomponent programs have been evaluated.

Aims:

The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nurse-led perioperative multicomponent interdisciplinary program in preventing postoperative delirium in elderly patients with hip fracture.

Method:

The participants in the usual care group were recruited from March 2012 to February 2013, and these in the experimental group were recruited from May 2013 to June 2014. The participants in the usual care group ( n = 174) received usual medical and nursing care from admission to hospital discharge and the participants in the experimental group ( n = 192) received the nurse-led perioperative multicomponent interdisciplinary intervention. The STROBE checklist was used to report this study.

Results:

There were no statistical differences between the two cohorts in terms of the baseline data such as gender, age, fracture type, and so on. The experimental group had a lower incidence of delirium and postoperative hypoxia than the usual care group. No statistical differences in terms of delirium severity, delirium duration, and mean hospitalization length were observed.

Conclusions:

The nurse-led perioperative multicomponent interdisciplinary program described in the current study is feasible and effective in reducing the incidence of postoperative delirium in elderly patients with hip fracture.
Effect of chemical oxidizers and enzymatic treatments on the baking quality of doughs formulated with five Canadian spring wheat cultivars
Authors: Tozatti Patricia , Hopkins Erin J , Briggs Connie , Hucl Pierre , Nickerson Michael T
Published: April 2020

For many years, the baking industry has been using chemical improvers as a way for compensating for flour quality variation due to growing conditions or wheat cultivar. However, the replacement of chemical dough improvers with natural ingredients or processing aids (i.e. enzymes) allows for the production of ‘cleaner label’ products. In the present research, dough and bread properties (mixing time, oven rise, loaf volume, crumb firmness and C-cell parameters) were analysed as a function of wheat cultivar (Glenn, Harvest, Lillian, CDC Plentiful and Stettler), additive-type (ascorbic acid, azodicarbonamide, glucose oxidase and fungal xylanase) and concentration. Overall, the cultivar Glenn appeared to have improved baking performance relative to the other cultivars, regardless of the additive and additive concentration. On the other hand, Stettler showed poorer baking quality and performance even with the addition of oxidizers and enzymes in relation to the control. The concentration of additive was found to have little or no effect on improving baking properties within each cultivar. Enzymes had similar or better performance than oxidizers in most cases.
School Climate as a Universal Intervention to Prevent Substance Use Initiation in Early Adolescence: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Daily Shay M. , Mann Michael J. , Lilly Christa L. , Bias Thomas K. , Smith Megan L. , Kristjansson Alfgeir L.
Published: April 2020

Initiation of substance use often starts during adolescence, with tobacco and alcohol use frequently preceding the use of marijuana and other illicit drugs. Studies suggest that a positive school climate may prevent substance use while promoting healthy student behaviors. The purpose of this study was to determine the longitudinal associations between school climate and substance use initiation in a group of middle school students. Parallel latent growth curve modeling was used to examine changes among study variables longitudinally using a sample of 2,097 sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students across 16 regional schools located in three counties in West Virginia. Results suggest that a positive school climate may prevent substance use initiation (β = −0.07 to −0.25, p < .01). However, perceptions of school climate decreased on their own over time (β = −0.28 to −0.66, p < .01). Furthermore, substance use initiation also increased as students grew older (β = 0.96 to 0.99, p < .01) and reduced the effects of school climate longitudinally (β = −0.07 to −0.24, p < .01). Early substance use initiation may be a warning sign of other underlying student issues and requires additional school support to foster student success. Findings suggest that a positive school climate may delay substance use initiation and promote school success. School climate may, therefore, be useful as an intervention to support school-based health promotion.
Pontine Embryonal Tumor With Multilayered Rosettes: An Autopsy Case Exhibiting Extensive Posttreatment Glial and Neuronal Maturation
Authors: Levine Adrian , Hukin Juliette , Dunham Christopher
Published: April 2020

Embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes (ETMR) is a rare and highly aggressive embryonal central nervous system tumor that primarily affects young children. It is characterized by (1) amplification of the C19MC miRNA cluster at 19q13.42 and (2) immunohistochemical tumor cell positivity for LIN28A. We describe the case of a 3-year-old girl who presented with a 2-week history of multiple neurological deficits. Based primarily on imaging findings that revealed a large pontine tumor, biopsy was not performed and the patient was clinically diagnosed with a “diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.” She was subsequently treated with radiation and concurrent adjuvant temozolomide, but unfortunately there was minimal response and the patient died 6 months after diagnosis. Autopsy revealed an ETMR that was confirmed via C19MC fluorescence in situ hybridization and LIN28 immunohistochemistry. Although widespread central nervous system dissemination was observed, large portions of the main pontine mass exhibited evidence of extensive glial and neuronal maturation (ie, differentiation). We consider this tissue “maturation” to have been induced by chemotherapy and radiation. Herein, we discuss the importance of antemortem biopsy of intrinsic pontine tumors and the clinical significance of glial and neuronal maturation post therapy in the context of ETMR.
Dynamic interaction of the low-to-medium speed maglev train and bridges with different deflection ratios: Experimental and numerical analyses
Authors: Wang Dangxiong , Li Xiaozhen , Wang Yuwen , Hu Qikai
Published: April 2020

The deflection ratio of the bridge is an important design parameter influencing the stability of the low-to-medium speed maglev train by affecting the levitation gap. This study focuses on the dynamic interaction of the low-to-medium speed maglev train and bridges with different vertical deflection ratios and investigates the required bridge vertical deflection ratio for the stability of the maglev train. The experimental investigation is carried out first. Then, a numerical dynamic interaction model is established and verified based on the field tests. And then, the influence of the vertical deflection ratio of a 25 m simply supported girder on the dynamic responses is discussed, as well as the bridges with the same deflection ratio but different span lengths. Finally, the maximum deflection ratios for the bridges with different span lengths are proposed and also compared with that of the existing maglev lines around the world. The study shows that when the deflection ratio reaches a certain level, the dynamic responses increase dramatically. The proposed allowable deflection ratios of bridges with different span lengths can not only ensure the smooth running of the train but also reduce the costs.
Circulating Tumor Cells and Fibronectin 1 in the Prognosis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Ying , Lin Zhi-Xiu , Li Hai-Wen , Luo Hai-Qing , Yang Dong-Hong , Zhou He-Chao , Jiang Dan-Xian , Zhan De-Chao , Yang Liu , Liang Xiao-Ye , Yu Zhong-Hua , Chen Zi-Hong
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is highly endemic in Southeast China. Circulating tumor cell is an important biomarker in the prognosis of variety kinds of cancers. Overexpression of fibronectin 1 was observed in variety kinds of malignancies and may contribute to progress and metastasis of the cancers. The current study was aimed to investigate phenotypes of circulating tumor cell in nasopharyngeal carcinoma blood and fibronectin 1 expression in the circulating tumor cell, and their clinical application in predicting nasopharyngeal carcinoma prognosis.

Methods:

Blood samples were obtained from nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients before and after treatment. CanPatrol circulating tumor cell enrichment and RNA in situ hybridization were applied to identify circulating tumor cell and its phenotypes. Fibronectin 1 messenger RNA expression in the cells of circulating tumors was examined by messenger RNA-in situ hybridization.

Results:

Circulating tumor cell was not associated with tumor characteristics or lymph node metastasis. Patients with >9 circulating tumor cells or >5 mesenchymal phenotype circulating tumor cell per 5-mL blood had poorer progression-free survival ( P < .05). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that 2 or more mesenchymal phenotype circulating tumor cells with high fibronectin 1 messenger RNA expression predicted shorter progression-free survival ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

Circulating tumor cells with high-level fibronectin 1 expression was associated with poor survival in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and could be an independent prognostic factor for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Seeking Alpha: Can Neurofeedback Actually Work?
Authors: Salpekar Jay A.
Published: April 2020

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Using the Exploratory Sequential Design for Complex Intervention Development: Example of the Development of a Self-Management Program for Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Munce Sarah E. P. , Guetterman Timothy C. , Jaglal Susan B.
Published: April 2020

In the exploratory sequential design, the qualitative phase occurs first and is followed by the quantitative phase. The methodological purpose of this article is to demonstrate how an exploratory sequential approach, including the use of a joint display, can be used for complex intervention development. This article presents and integrates the qualitative and quantitative findings from a series of previously published studies on the considerations for a tailored self-management program for individuals with spinal cord injury. This article serves as a reference for other researchers, clinicians, and/or other stakeholders on using the exploratory sequential design for complex intervention development. The exploratory sequential design should be used more broadly for the development of relevant and sustainable interventions.
Visual Participatory Analysis: A Qualitative Method for Engaging Participants in Interpreting the Results of Randomized Controlled Trials of Health Interventions
Authors: Mannell Jenevieve , Davis Katy , Akter Kohenour , Jennings Hannah , Morrison Joanna , Kuddus Abul , Fottrell Edward
Published: April 2020

This article contributes to the field of mixed methods by introducing a new method for eliciting participant perspectives of the quantitative results of randomized controlled trials. Participants are rarely asked to interpret trial results, obscuring potentially valuable information about why a trial either succeeds or fails. We introduce a unique method called visual participatory analysis and discuss the insights gained in its use as part of a trial to prevent risk and reduce the prevalence of diabetes in Bangladesh. Findings highlight benefits such as elucidating contextualized explanations for null results and identifying causal mechanisms, as well as challenges around communicating randomized controlled trial methodologies to lay audiences. We conclude that visual participatory analysis is a valuable method to use after a trial.
Modular design research of computer numerical control machine tools oriented to customer requirements
Authors: Li Fei , Li Xudong , Xie Hualong
Published: April 2020

In order to study the modular design of computer numerical control machine tools oriented to customer demands, the customer demand information model was established based on rough analytic hierarchy process and information entropy by analyzing and transforming customer demands. Based on the domain mapping method of axiomatic design and quality function deployment integration, the product function model and structure model of computer numerical control machine tools are established. Based on fuzzy clustering analysis, the module division of computer numerical control machine tools is studied, and the dynamic clustering diagram of computer numerical control machine tools is formed with MATLAB as the operating environment. Based on Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method, the scheme of computer numerical control machine tools module division is evaluated. Taking the horizontal computer numerical control machine tool products of Shenyang Machine Tool Group as an example, the module division is carried out. The example design and the result analysis prove that the module division system is very effective and fast.
Synthesis of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate derivative containing a triazole ring and combined with cisplatin/paclitaxel inhibits NSCLC cancer cells by decreasing phosphorylation of the EGFR
Authors: Zi Cheng-Ting , Sun Pei-Yuan , Zhang Ning , Tang Han , Yang Hao-Nang , Wang Qi , Wang Yu-Na , Wang Jing , Wang Xuan-Jun , Sheng Jun
Published: April 2020

Non-small-cell lung cancer is one of the principal causes of cancer-related death around the world. Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat wild type of epidermal growth factor receptor non-small-cell lung cancer. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate is the most abundant and active catechin. However, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate has limited clinical application due to its poor stability and absorption. Herein, we report that a glycosylated azide undergoes a click reaction with the terminal alkyne of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate to yield a triazole-linked glucose-(-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate derivative and have evaluated its in vitro anticancer activity against human non-small-cell lung cancer cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The product inhibits human non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines with wild type of epidermal growth factor receptor and in combination with cisplatin/paclitaxel results in more pronounced proliferation inhibition than when used alone. Stability investigations indicates that the conjugated glucose residue can improve the stability of the (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate scaffold. Our studies suggest that the combination of the glucose-(-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate derivative and chemotherapeutic drugs may provide a novel strategy for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer.
Differences in ground reaction waveforms between elite senior and junior academy sprinters during the block phase and first two steps
Authors: Graham-Smith Philip , Colyer Steffi L , Salo Aki IT
Published: April 2020

The block start and initial steps following block exit are fundamental aspects of sprinting and their development is key to junior athletes’ progression. This study assessed the difference in force production between elite senior (including two sub-10 s 100-m sprinters) and junior academy sprinters during the block phase and the first two steps of a sprint. Thirty-seven male sprinters (17 senior, 20 junior) performed a series of maximal effort 20–40 m acceleration from blocks on an indoor track, with the ground reaction forces produced during the block phase and first two steps measured using force platforms. Senior athletes produced better block-phase performances (average horizontal external power; 15.52 ± 1.48 W/kg, M ±  SD) compared with the juniors (12.37 ± 2.21 W/kg; effect size ± 90% confidence interval = 1.28 ± 0.38). However, force production during the initial two steps was comparable across groups. Specifically, senior athletes exhibited higher relative force production and ratio of forces during the early (∼15–35%) block phase and higher anteroposterior forces during the transition from bilateral to unilateral pushing (58–62% of the block phase). Front foot force production was also found to differentiate senior and junior groups at rear block exit (∼55% of the block phase). This may be a required response to the greater centre of mass displacement in order to prevent over-rotation in the senior athletes during the front block pushing phase. Collectively, these results indicate that the progression of junior athletes is non-uniform across the block phase and subsequent two contacts, which should be considered when attempting to progress junior athletes towards senior ranks.
Can National Identity Ever Have “Fundamental Values”?
Authors: Stronach Ian , Hodkinson Alan
Published: April 2020

This brief article acts as an introduction to this special edition on Fundamental British Values (FBV). From the outset, it is important to state that we as a group of contributors believe it is fundamental to value Britain and all of its peoples in different and differing ways to those espoused in the Government Prevent Agenda, FBV, and the “media’s moral panics” about the terrorist within.
Are We There Yet? An Anticipation Account of the Return Trip Effect
Authors: Chen Zoey , Hamilton Ryan , Rucker Derek D.
Published: April 2020

Research has documented the psychological phenomenon in which the trip back from a destination is experienced as shorter than the trip to the destination. Deemed the “return trip effect” (RTE), prior work explained this phenomenon in terms of differential familiarity between home and outbound destination or an underestimation of initial travel time. The present article posits an anticipation account for the RTE: Outbound trips to a destination tend to foster higher levels of anticipation than return trips. Due to greater anticipation, people’s perception of time elongates. Importantly, the anticipation account makes novel predictions with regard to the occurrence of the RTE that cannot be accounted for by prior explanations. Multiple studies, with diverse methodologies, test and offer evidence in support of an anticipation account of the RTE.
The Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and knowledge transfer in Sino-Nigerian development cooperation
Authors: Ibonye Vincent
Published: April 2020

States always trade across and explore opportunities for relevant information on reforms capable of responding to progressive demands of domestic growth and national development. Presently, the traditional development landscape has expanded to include new actors not only devising new development models but also providing a variegated supply of developmental know-how in support of global prosperity – one of the most visible case studies being China’s South–South-based cooperation with Africa via the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). In their development cooperation, FOCAC-based initiatives posture to bridge inequality and disparity between both sides often through the transfer of knowledge. Regarding this, the Forum employs knowledge sharing as a combination of capacity development initiatives in the form of training and educational, technical, human capacity-building and human resource development, including technology cooperation. However, citing marginal impact on industrialization processes of African countries, sceptics maintain that FOCAC’s trail in the so-called ‘second continent’ translates as a systematic imposition of a Beijing-centric paradigm of globalization. Notwithstanding, given the promise of cross-cultural cooperation in knowledge production, rather than succumb to monocausal critiques on sub-optimal development assistance, this article evaluates the prospects of Nigeria capitalizing on China’s stock of development know-how more strategically.
Low-Income Female Students and the Reversal of the Black-White Gap in High School Graduation
Authors: Clark Brian , Shi Ying
Published: April 2020

This article shows that the traditional narrative of Black-White high school graduation gaps is inverted among economically disadvantaged female students. Two nationally representative surveys and statewide administrative data demonstrate that low-income White females graduate at rates 5 to 6 percentage points lower than Black peers despite having higher test scores. Greater rates of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use among White females account for one third of the attainment disparity. Since the early onset of substance use among low-income White females predicts lower attainment, more research on the factors leading to risky behaviors and their correlates during early adolescence is warranted. Examining racial gaps in high school graduation at the intersection of gender and income categories can inform more tailored interventions.
Training in Interventional Radiology: A Simulation-Based Approach
Authors: Mandal Indrajeet , Ojha Utkarsh
Published: April 2020

Innovations in medical technology have revolutionised both medical and surgical practice. Indeed, with such innovations, training for specific specialties has become more advanced and streamlined. However, despite these novel approaches to train students and specialist trainees, training for interventional radiology (IR) is lagging. While the reason for this lag remains contentious, one of the primary reasons for this issue may be the lack of standardisation for IR training due to a scarcity of specific guidelines for the delivery of IR procedural training. Interventional radiologists manage a vast array of conditions and perform various procedures. However, training for each procedure is largely dependent on the centre and access to a range of cases. Recently, the use of simulation technology has allowed this issue to be addressed. Simulation technology allows trainees to participate in a range of procedures regardless of their centre and availability of cases. Specialties such as cardiology and vascular surgery have already adopted simulation-based technology for trainees and have commented positively on this approach. However, simulation-based training is still lacking in the IR training pathway. Here, we evaluate why IR training can benefit from a more simulation-based approach. We further consider the cost-effectiveness of implementing simulation-based training nationally. Finally, we outline the potential pitfalls that may arise of introducing simulation-based training for IR trainees. We conclude that despite its disadvantages, simulation training will prove to be more cost-efficient and allow standardisation of IR training.
Investigation of biological mechanisms during flow of nano-Bingham–Papanastasiou fluid through a diseased curved artery
Authors: Sultan Faqiha , Khan Najeeb Alam , Afridi Muhammad Idrees
Published: April 2020

This study aims to explore the biological flow mechanisms in a diseased curved artery during the flow of nano-Bingham–Papanastasiou fluid. The occurrence of stenosis and aneurysm is common in the arterial system, caused by narrowing or dilation of arteries owing to the development of abnormal tissues such as atherosclerotic plaques. The growth of these cells into the lumen of the artery disturbs the flow through the artery. For the treatments of hematological diseases and manufacturing nanoscale biomedical devices, nanofluids are very effective and gaining a lot of attention. In this study, Buongiorno’s nanofluid model is used for nanoscale effects and Bingham–Papanastasiou fluid is employed to study the hemodynamic rheology. An appropriate geometric expression is formulated to project two diseased segments in a curved artery. The coupled nonlinear partial differential equations are formulated for the case of mild stenosis. To solve the governing equations, an explicit finite difference scheme is used. The biological flow mechanisms are depicted through graphs, and flow patterns are presented for important flow parameters.
Comprehensive proteomic analysis of murine terminal erythroid differentiation
Authors: Gautier Emilie-Fleur , Leduc Marjorie , Ladli Meriem , Schulz Vincent P. , Lefèvre Carine , Boussaid Ismael , Fontenay Michaela , Lacombe Catherine , Verdier Frédérique , Guillonneau François , Hillyer Christopher D. , Mohandas Narla , Gallagher Patrick G. , Mayeux Patrick
Published: April 2020

Murine-based cellular models have provided and continue to provide many useful insights into the fundamental mechanisms of erythropoiesis, as well as insights into the pathophysiology of inherited and acquired red cell disorders. Although detailed information on many aspects of these cell models is available, comprehensive proteomic data are lacking. This is a critical knowledge gap, as proteins are effectors of most biologic processes. To address this critical unmet need, proteomes of the murine cell lines Friend erythroleukemia (MEL), GATA1 erythroid (G1ER), and embryonic stem cell–derived erythroid progenitor (MEDEP) and proteomes of cultured murine marrow–derived erythroblasts at different stages of terminal erythroid differentiation were analyzed. The proteomes of MEDEP cells and primary murine erythroid cells were most similar, whereas those of MEL and G1ER cells were more distantly related. We demonstrated that the overall cellular content of histones does not decrease during terminal differentiation, despite strong chromatin condensation. Comparison of murine and human proteomes throughout terminal erythroid differentiation revealed that many noted transcriptomic changes were significantly dampened at the proteome level, especially at the end of the terminal differentiation process. Analysis of the early events associated with induction of terminal differentiation in MEDEP cells revealed divergent alterations in associated transcriptomes and proteomes. These proteomic data are powerful and valuable tools for the study of fundamental mechanisms of normal and disordered erythropoiesis and will be of broad interest to a wide range of investigators for making the appropriate choice of various cell lines to study inherited and acquired diseases of the erythrocyte.