bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life measurement in occupational skin diseases. Position paper of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Forces on Quality of Life and Patient Oriented Outcomes and Occupational Skin Disease
Authors: Chernyshov P.V. , John S.M. , Tomas‐Aragones L. , Gonçalo M. , Svensson A. , Bewley A. , Evers A.W.M. , Szepietowski J.C. , Marron S.E. , Manolache L. , Pustisek N. , Suru A. , Salavastru C.M. , Tiplica G.S. , Salek M.S. , Finlay A.Y.
Published: July 2020

The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) has started the ‘Healthy Skin @ Work’ campaign aimed to raise awareness among the public and EU authorities on the frequency and impact of occupational skin diseases (OSDs). The EADV Task Forces (TFs) on Quality of Life and Patient Oriented Outcomes (QoL/PO) and on OSD present their mutual position statement on QoL assessment in OSDs. The EADV TFs recommend the use of the DLQI as a dermatology‐specific instrument and SF‐36 as a generic instrument in health‐related (HR) QoL studies on OSDs. The OSD‐specific questionnaire, LIOD, is not recommended for general use in its present form because of its three months recall period. The EADV TFs discourage the use of non‐validated and of non‐validated modifications of previously validated HRQoL instruments. The EADV TFs wish to encourage research into: the HRQoL impact of OSDs other than occupational contact dermatitis and hand eczema; comparisons between the effects of different treatments and other interventions on HRQoL in OSDs; and into the HRQoL impairment of patients with OSDs from different countries, and with different provoking factors, to predict if the results of successful therapeutic and educational interventions may be generalized across countries and between occupations.
Geochronological and petrological constraints from the evolution in the Saxon Granulite Massif, Germany, on the Variscan continental collision orogeny
Authors: Rötzler Jochen , Timmerman Martin J.
Published: July 2020

Controversy over the plate tectonic affinity and evolution of the Saxon granulites in a two‐ or multi‐plate setting during inter‐ or intracontinental collision makes the Saxon Granulite Massif a key area for the understanding of the Palaeozoic Variscan orogeny. The massif is a large dome structure in which tectonic slivers of metapelite and metaophiolite units occur along a shear zone separating a diapir‐like body of high‐P granulite below from low‐P metasedimentary rocks above. Each of the upper structural units records a different metamorphic evolution until its assembly with the exhuming granulite body. New age and petrologic data suggest that the metaophiolites developed from early Cambrian protoliths during high‐P amphibolite facies metamorphism in the mid‐ to late‐Devonian and thermal overprinting by the exhuming hot granulite body in the early Carboniferous. A correlation of new Ar–Ar biotite ages with published P–T–t data for the granulites implies that exhumation and cooling of the granulite body occurred at average rates of ~8 mm/year and ~80°C/Ma, with a drop in exhumation rate from ~20 to ~2.5 mm/year and a slight rise in cooling rate between early and late stages of exhumation. A time lag of c. 2 Ma between cooling through the closure temperatures for argon diffusion in hornblende and biotite indicates a cooling rate of 90°C/Ma when all units had assembled into the massif. A two‐plate model of the Variscan orogeny in which the above evolution is related to a short‐lived intra‐Gondwana subduction zone conflicts with the oceanic affinity of the metaophiolites and the timescale of c. 50 Ma for the metamorphism. Alternative models focusing on the internal Variscan belt assume distinctly different material paths through the lower or upper crust for strikingly similar granulite massifs. An earlier proposed model of bilateral subduction below the internal Variscan belt may solve this problem.
Mortgage Design in an Equilibrium Model of the Housing Market
Authors: GUREN ADAM M. , KRISHNAMURTHY ARVIND , MCQUADE TIMOTHY J.
Published: July 2020

How can mortgages be redesigned to reduce macrovolatility and default? We address this question using a quantitative equilibrium life‐cycle model. Designs with countercyclical payments outperform fixed payments. Among those, designs that front‐load payment reductions in recessions outperform those that spread relief over the full term. Front‐loading alleviates liquidity constraints when they bind most, reducing default and stimulating housing demand. To illustrate, a fixed‐rate mortgage (FRM) with an option to convert to adjustable‐rate mortgage, which front‐loads payment reductions relative to an FRM with an option to refinance underwater, reduces price and consumption declines six times as much and default three times as much.
Parental mobile health adherence to symptom home monitoring for infants with congenital heart disease during the single ventricle interstage period: A concept analysis
Authors: Erickson Lori A. , Emerson Amanda , Russell Cynthia L.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Single ventricle heart disease is fraught with risk for infant mortality and morbidity. During the interstage period, or the time between palliative cardiac surgeries, mobile health (mHealth) technology improves the ability of registered nurse coordinators to monitor infant symptoms through parental monitoring and reporting. The concept of parental mHealth adherence to symptom home monitoring of infants with single ventricle congenital heart disease has not been defined, despite increasing use of mHealth technology.

Methods

Rodger's concept analysis method was used to derive a unified definition of parental mHealth adherence to symptom home monitoring of infants with congenital heart disease during the single ventricle interstage period. A literature review included a search of databases for studies that addressed interstage home mHealth monitoring. Thematic analysis was applied to selected articles to derive a unified definition based on attributes, antecedents, consequences, related terms, and an illustrative case example. Sixteen publications were selected. Attributes, antecedents, and consequences of the concept were derived from the literature leading to a definition of parental mHealth adherence for infants with congenital heart disease during the single ventricle interstage period. The definition is the degree of adherence to which parents' transfer mHealth data for their infant meet healthcare providers' recommendations for symptom home monitoring. Consequences were improved infant symptom home monitoring through parental mHealth adherence measured by initiation, implementation, and discontinuation.

Conclusion

The unified definition of the concept will provide a firmer ground for research in mHealth and interstage pediatric care and a guide for clinicians in developing new mHealth interventions for symptom home monitoring.

Practice Implications

This concept analysis hypothesizes that infants with a single ventricle during the interstage period, whose parents are mHealth symptom home monitoring adherent, will have timelier symptom identification with resultant superior outcomes compared with infants with a single ventricle during the interstage period whose parents are not mHealth adherent.
Rapid automated diagnosis of primary hepatic tumour by mass spectrometry and artificial intelligence
Authors: Giordano Silvia , Takeda Sen , Donadon Matteo , Saiki Hidekazu , Brunelli Laura , Pastorelli Roberta , Cimino Matteo , Soldani Cristiana , Franceschini Barbara , Di Tommaso Luca , Lleo Ana , Yoshimura Kentaro , Nakajima Hiroki , Torzilli Guido , Davoli Enrico
Published: July 2020

Background and aims

Complete surgical resection with negative margin is one of the pillars in treatment of liver tumours. However, current techniques for intra‐operative assessment of tumour resection margins are time‐consuming and empirical. Mass spectrometry (MS) combined with artificial intelligence (AI) is useful for classifying tissues and provides valuable prognostic information. The aim of this study was to develop a MS‐based system for rapid and objective liver cancer identification and classification.

Methods

A large dataset derived from 222 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, 117 tumours and 105 non‐tumours) and 96 patients with mass‐forming cholangiocarcinoma (MFCCC, 50 tumours and 46 non‐tumours) were analysed by Probe Electrospray Ionization (PESI) MS. AI by means of support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) algorithms was employed. For each classifier, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were calculated.

Results

The overall diagnostic accuracy exceeded 94% in both the AI algorithms. For identification of HCC vs non‐tumour tissue, RF was the best, with 98.2% accuracy, 97.4% sensitivity and 99% specificity. For MFCCC vs non‐tumour tissue, both algorithms gave 99.0% accuracy, 98% sensitivity and 100% specificity.

Conclusions

The herein reported MS‐based system, combined with AI, permits liver cancer identification with high accuracy. Its bench‐top size, minimal sample preparation and short working time are the main advantages. From diagnostics to therapeutics, it has the potential to influence the decision‐making process in real‐time with the ultimate aim of improving cancer patient cure.
Shirking and Slacking in Parliament
Authors: Frech Elena , Goet Niels D. , Hug Simon
Published: July 2020

How and why do the activities of members of parliament (MPs) change in response to electoral constraints? In this article, we draw on unique and newly collected data from the Swiss federal chambers and two cantonal parliaments (Basel‐Stadt and Basel‐Land) to explore the effects of electoral constraints. Leveraging variation in mandatory term limits, we study the extent to which term‐limited MPs engage in shirking—that is, move away from their principal, whether it be the party and/or voters—and slacking—that is, reduce their parliamentary activities. Our analysis, which draws on a combination of novel roll‐call votes and speech data, yields mixed results: while there is no evidence of shirking by term‐limited MPs in the cantonal parliaments, we find some indications of such behavior among term‐limited legislators in the federal chambers. These latter legislators also engage in some limited slacking, which is not observable in the cantonal parliaments. Our findings shed light on the (political) implications of term limits and the effect of electoral constraints on legislator behavior.
Party Strategy, Candidate Selection, and Legislative Behavior in Mexico
Authors: Ascencio Sergio J. , Kerevel Yann P.
Published: July 2020

What explains party unity in legislatures? Prior research suggests when candidate selection and electoral rules create incentives for legislators to cultivate a personal vote, party unity should decline. However, previous theories often treat candidate selection rules as exogenous institutions that have independent effects on legislative behavior despite the fact the choice of nomination rules are often an intraparty issue and a key component of partisan electoral strategies. Here, we develop a theory linking candidate selection rules to party unity through the strategic behavior of party leaders. Our main finding is that, under personalized electoral rules, the effects of nomination rules on legislative behavior are conditional on parties' electoral incentives. We test our theory using data from the Mexican Chamber of Deputies, a case where our results are unlikely to be explained by personal vote‐seeking incentives since legislators are banned from seeking reelection.
Altered red blood cell deformability—A novel hypothesis for retinal microangiopathy in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Tan Justin Kok Soon , Wei Xin , Wong Peter Agustinus , Fang Jie , Kim Sangho , Agrawal Rupesh
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Impaired red blood cell (RBC) deformability impedes tissue perfusion. This study aims to investigate RBC biomechanics in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients with different grades of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and to correlate RBC deformability with hematological and serum biochemical markers.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 86 type 2 DM patients (31 with no DR, 31 with non‐proliferative DR [NPDR] and 24 with proliferative DR [PDR]) and 32 control subjects. RBC deformability was measured by a microfluidic cross‐slot channel (elongation index, EI). Venous blood samples were taken for assessment of hematological and serum biochemical markers.

Results

RBC deformability showed significant reduction in diabetic patients, being lowest in the PDR group, followed by NPDR and DM with no DR groups, and highest in control group (P = .018). RBC deformability was not affected by age or gender but showed significant associations with certain hematological and serum biochemical markers. In the regression analysis controlling for DM status, urea concentration and reticulocyte count were shown to be negatively associated with EI.

Conclusion

Impaired RBC deformability measured by a microfluidic cross‐slot channel in DM patients with different grades of DR underscores the contribution of RBC rheological properties to the pathogenesis and progression of DM related microangiopathy.
Talking to the Enemy: Difficult Conversations and Ethnopolitical Conflict
Authors: Ellis Donald G.
Published: July 2020

The article reviews intractability qualities and uses the Israeli‐Palestinian conflict as an example of the difficult conversations that characterize the conflict between competing groups. There are two typical research trends for analyzing group conflict. These are either a rational model or intractable conflict model. The rational model assumes that differences are over realistic issues such as scarce resources. The intractable model focuses on identity and emotions. Intractable conflicts are recalcitrant, nonrational, and particularly resistant to resolution. They generate difficult conversations. The argument here demonstrates how intractability establishes the descriptive conditions for difficult conversations about conflicts. These conditions are incommensurate cultural narratives, narrative particularity, existential threat, power differences, and delegitimization. Islam and the West and the Israelis and Palestinians are used as examples. Finally, such difficult divides must attend to five issues that ameliorate difficult conversations, namely, inclusion, maximization of arguments and reasons, controlling undue influences, dialogic equality, and the value of deliberation.
Quality of life and associated factors in siblings of children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wakimizu Rie , Fujioka Hiroshi , Nishigaki Kaori , Matsuzawa Akemi
Published: July 2020

This study examined quality of life and its associated factors in siblings of children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities in Japan. The participants were 789 siblings of children with a disability and their primary caregivers. We used the Kinder Lebensqualität Fragebogen questionnaire to assess the quality of life of siblings. The mean age of the siblings was 12.21 ± 3.07 years, and the mean quality of life score was 69.63 ± 12.55 points, which is higher than that of the general population of children of the same age. It was revealed that the following factors contributed to higher quality of life scores: a closer relationship with the child with a disability, younger age, the primary caregiver's lower care burden, later birth order of siblings (i.e., younger siblings), higher family empowerment, and female gender of siblings. The relationship with the child with a disability had the strongest influence on siblings' quality of life. Our study suggests the need for nursing interventions that focus on the whole family to enhance siblings' quality of life.
Plagiostachys lourdesiae (Zingiberaceae), a new species from Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Docot Rudolph Valentino A.
Published: July 2020

A new species, Plagiostachys lourdesiae, from Mindanao, Philippines is described here. Plagiostachys escritorii, which also occurs in Mindanao, is the most closely related species. The new species differs from P. escritorii in its petiolate lamina, lax inflorescence, red and strongly curved upward labellum, and globose to subglobose maroon fruit. A colour plate, notes on its distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status as well as a key to Plagiostachys species in the Philippines are provided.
Real‐world performance of the atrial fibrillation monitor in patients with a subcutaneous ICD
Authors: Baalman Sarah W.E. , Mittal Suneet , Boersma Lucas V.A. , Perschbacher Dave , Brisben Amy J. , Mahajan Deepa , de Groot Joris R. , Knops Reinoud E.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The third‐generation subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (S‐ICD) (EMBLEM™ A219, Boston Scientific) contains a new diagnostic tool to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) in S‐ICD patients, without the use of an intracardiac lead. This is the first study to evaluate the performance of the S‐ICD AF monitor (AFM).

Methods

The AFM algorithm analyzes a subcutaneous signal for the presence of AF, similar to the signals collected by implantable and wearable diagnostic devices. The AFM algorithm combines heart rate (HR) scatter analysis with an HR histogram. The algorithm was tested against publicly available electrocardiogram databases (simulated performance). Real‐world performance of the algorithm was evaluated by using the S‐ICD LATITUDE remote monitoring (RM) database.

Results

The simulated performance of the AFM algorithm resulted in a sensitivity of 95.0%, specificity of 100.0%, and positive predictive value (PPV) of 100.0%. To evaluate the real‐world performance of the AFM, 7744 S‐ICD devices were followed for up to 30 months by RM, whereof 99.5% had the AFM enabled. A total of 387 AF episodes were randomly chosen for adjudication, resulting in a PPV of 67.7%. The main cause of misclassification was atrial and ventricular ectopy.

Conclusion

The AFM exhibited a very high sensitivity and specificity in a simulated setting, designed to maximize PPV in order to minimize the clinical burden of reviewing falsely detected AF events. The real‐world performance of the AFM, enabled in 99.5% of S‐ICD patients, is a PPV of 67.7%.
Understanding predictors of change in a day treatment setting for non‐suicidal self‐injury
Authors: Slesinger Noël C. , Hayes Nicole A. , Washburn Jason J.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To examine change in non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) frequency, quality of life, and functional impairment from admission to discharge in patients enrolled in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programmes (PHP/IOP) designed to treat NSSI. Demographic, clinical, and treatment‐related predictors of changes were also examined.

Design

Data were collected as part of routine clinical assessment procedures at admission and discharge from patients enrolled in a PHP/IOP programme designed to treat NSSI. The clinical assessment included measures examining quality of life, functional impairment, and NSSI behaviour.

Methods

Paired t‐tests were used to examine change in NSSI frequency, quality of life, and functional impairment. Reliable clinical change analyses were used to identify clinically significant change in quality of life and functional impairment. Multilevel mixed‐effects regression was used to examine predictors of change for quality of life and functional impairment. Negative binomial regression was used to examine predictors of change for NSSI frequency.

Results

From admission to discharge, NSSI frequency significantly decreased and quality of life and functional impairment evidenced clinically significant change. Age, race/ethnicity, and insurance type predicted change in functional impairment, while gender predicted change in quality of life. Urge to self‐injure predicted change in NSSI frequency. Borderline symptoms predicted change across all outcome variables.

Conclusions

Patients who completed a day treatment programme for NSSI evidenced significant change in NSSI frequency, functional impairment, and quality of life at discharge; however, several demographic and clinical variables were associated with change.

Practitioner points

Patients who engage in NSSI show significant change from admission to discharge in a day treatment programme dedicated to the treatment of NSSI.

Quality of life and functional impairment are important outcome variables to consider and evaluate in higher levels of care.

It is important to consider demographic and clinical variables when creating a treatment plan for NSSI.

Although BPD symptoms may be important to consider in day treatment for NSSI, interpersonal dysfunction, depressive symptoms, and mood lability may also affect change in symptoms.
Generalized bullae in a young girl with KRT6A‐related pachyonychia congenita
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhong Weilong , Yu Bo , Lin Zhimiao , Zheng Yalei , Hu Xiaoping
Published: July 2020

Pachyonychia congenita (PC) is a rare genodermatosis showing heterogeneity with five causative keratin genes (KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16, or KRT17). Clinically, PC is characterized by hypertrophic onychodystrophy, painful palmoplantar keratoderma, oral leukokeratosis, and follicular hyperkeratosis. We describe an atypical case of PC in a young Chinese girl presenting with generalized bullae and identified a recurrent heterozygous missense mutation c.1406T > C (p.Leu469Pro) in KRT6A. This suggests that bullae may represent an important feature of KRT6A‐related PC.
Citizen Advisory Committees in the Contingent Valuation Method Process
Authors: Bance Philippe , Chassy Angélique
Published: July 2020

The contingent valuation method (CVM) is a tool of economic analysis the purpose of which is to measure, on the basis of individuals' stated preferences, the utility they attach to the production of public goods—thereby enabling a public decision maker to arbitrate between different items of expenditure. The approach has been deployed as part of a centralist conceptual scheme that leaves little room for citizens in the process and is now being challenged by the increasing prominence of multilevel governance, particularly in Europe. The objective of this article was to propose and discuss the use in this context of citizen advisory committees (CACs) rather than the other participatory tools sometimes recommended in contingent valuation studies, such as citizen juries and the scenario workshop. It also discusses certain limitations of the CAC/CVM combination to ensure that citizens' opinions could be better taken into account in the specification and implementation of public programs.

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Lessons from the Lithium Triangle: Considering Policy Explanations for the Variation in Lithium Industry Development in the “Lithium Triangle” Countries of Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia
Authors: Lunde Seefeldt Jennapher
Published: July 2020

With lithium demand soaring for application in technology, it is vital to understand how states with lithium deposits can attract investment for extraction. Since the “lithium triangle” countries hold much of the world's lithium reserves, they serve as greatly contrasting case studies regarding lithium output. This research explains how policy differences in these three countries have resulted in differing output and industry development. Data are collected from investment reports, semi‐structured interviews, and surveys with insiders, finding two primary policy considerations. First, policy transparency and uniformity explain variation in investment and thus output. Unclear rules greatly deter investment, even when the resource is abundant. Then, property protections from state expropriation ensure these investments are secure and are more likely to attract investment and development. These findings have implications for emerging natural resource industries around the world and for those with geopolitical interests in securing access to critical resources.

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HLA‐C genetic diversity and evolutionary insights in two samples from Brazil and Benin
Authors: Souza Andreia S. , Sonon Paulin , Paz Michelle A. , Tokplonou Léonidas , Lima Thálitta H. A. , Porto Iane O. P. , Andrade Heloisa S. , Silva Nayane dos S. B. , Veiga‐Castelli Luciana C. , Oliveira Maria Luiza G. , Sadissou Ibrahim Abiodoun , Massaro Juliana Doblas , Moutairou Kabirou A. , Donadi Eduardo A. , Massougbodji Achille , Garcia André , Ibikounlé Moudachirou , Meyer Diogo , Sabbagh Audrey , Mendes‐Junior Celso T. , Courtin David , Castelli Erick C.
Published: July 2020

Human leukocyte antigen‐C (HLA‐C) is a classical HLA class I molecule that binds and presents peptides to cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the cell surface. HLA‐C has a dual function because it also interacts with Killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) receptors expressed in natural killer and T cells, modulating their activity. The structure and diversity of the HLA‐C regulatory regions, as well as the relationship among variants along the HLA‐C locus, are poorly addressed, and few population‐based studies explored the HLA‐C variability in the entire gene in different population samples. Here we present a molecular and bioinformatics method to evaluate the entire HLA‐C diversity, including regulatory sequences. Then, we applied this method to survey the HLA‐C diversity in two population samples with different demographic histories, one highly admixed from Brazil with major European contribution, and one from Benin with major African contribution. The HLA‐C promoter and 3′UTR were very polymorphic with the presence of few, but highly divergent haplotypes. These segments also present conserved sequences that are shared among different primate species. Nucleotide diversity was higher in other segments rather than exons 2 and 3, particularly around exon 5 and the second half of the 3′UTR region. We detected evidence of balancing selection on the entire HLA‐C locus and positive selection in the HLA‐C leader peptide, for both populations. HLA‐C motifs previously associated with KIR interaction and expression regulation are similar between both populations. Each allele group is associated with specific regulatory sequences, reflecting the high linkage disequilibrium along the entire HLA‐C locus in both populations.
Susceptibility weighted imaging at 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging in dogs: Comparison with T2*‐weighted gradient echo sequence and its clinical indications
Authors: Weston Philippa , Morales Carles , Dunning Mark , Parry Andrew , Carrera Inés
Published: July 2020

Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) is a high resolution, fully velocity‐compensated, three‐dimensional gradient echo (GE) MRI technique. In humans, SWI has been reported to be more sensitive than T2*‐weighted GE sequences in the identification of both intracranial hemorrhage and intra‐vascular deoxyhemoglobin. However, published clinical studies comparing SWI to T2*‐weighted GE sequences in dogs are currently lacking. The aim of this retrospective, observational study was to compare SWI and T2*‐weighted GE sequences in a group of dogs with intracranial disease. Medical records were searched for dogs that underwent a brain MRI examination that included T2*‐weighted GE and SWI sequences. The presence and appearance of non‐vascular and vascular signal voids observed on T2*‐weighted GE and SWI were compared. Thirty‐two dogs were included with the following diagnoses: presumed and confirmed intracranial neoplasia (27), cerebrovascular accidents (3), and trauma (2). Hemorrhagic lesions were significantly more conspicuous on SWI than T2*‐weighted GE sequences (P < .0001). Venous structures were well defined in all SWI sequences, and poorly defined in all dogs on T2*‐weighted GE. Susceptibility weighted imaging enabled identification of vascular abnormalities in 30 of 32 (93.8%) dogs, including: neovascularization in 19 of 32 (59.4%) dogs, displacement of perilesional veins in five of 32 (15.6%) dogs, and apparent dilation of perilesional veins in 10 of 32 (31.3%) dogs. Presence of neovascularization was significantly associated with T1‐weighted post‐contrast enhancement (P = .0184). Hemorrhagic lesions and venous structures were more conspicuous on SWI compared to T2*‐weighted GE sequences. Authors recommend adding SWI to standard brain protocols in dogs for detecting hemorrhage and identifying venous abnormalities for lesion characterization.
Self-concept in Relation to Coping with Stress in Adolescence
Authors: Ďuricová Lenka , Trojanová Veronika
Published: July 2020

The research objective of this study is to contribute to description of possible relations between self-image and coping with stressful situations in adolescence (secondary school and university students, N = 101). Emotional aspect of self-image or self-evaluation but also conative aspect or self-efficacy appear to represent parameters which are up to some extent related to choice of particular strategies of coping with stress (Tobin’s Coping Strategy Inventory). Research results show also certain development and gender differences in observed parameters.
Aspects of Learning in Didactics of Technical Subjects and Practical Training in the Context of Teaching Methods
Authors: Pecina Pavel , Svoboda Ivo
Published: July 2020

Aim of this study is to introduce issue of employment of psychological knowledge in the process of teaching of technical subjects and practical training at secondary technical schools to the professional public. In these processes application of adequate teaching methods plays a key role. In the first part we defined the solved issue, we explained topicality and seriousness of this issue, we described the aims of the study, its content and we focused on current state of solution of this issue. In the following part attention is paid to two questions of learning and mastering of knowledge in the process of technical subjects teaching with gradation to creativity dimension. Next part focuses on psychological questions concerning practical training with emphasis on mastering the psychomotor skills and employment of creative approaches in the course of teaching. Also partial findings in the field of development of technical creativity of secondary school students are presented.
Estimation of Ventilation Impact on Fluid–Structure Interaction for Partially Cavitating Hydrofoils
Authors: Amromin Eduard
Published: July 2020

Fluid–structure interaction is analyzed for natural and ventilated partial cavitation of conventional hydrofoils. Quasi-linear two-dimensional (2D) analysis of ideal fluid incompressible flow outside the cavity is coupled with one-dimensional analysis of compressible flows within the cavity and with analysis of hydrofoil bending vibration under impact of periodical oscillations of hydrodynamic forces. The old experimental data for hydrofoils Clark Y-11.7% and NACA 0015 are used for validation of this coupling. Estimations based on obtained computational results show that the force oscillations can be significantly mitigated by ventilation, whereas the ventilation effect on the cavity volume oscillation is less significant. The presented estimations also show that ventilation can suppress generation of shock waves in the cavity tail and affect their propagation.
Near- and Far-Field Acoustic Measurements for Stepped Nozzles at Over- and Perfectly-Expanded Supersonic Jet Flow Conditions
Authors: Wei X. F. , Chua L. P. , Lu Z. B. , Lim H. D. , Mariani R. , Cui Y. D. , New T. H.
Published: July 2020

Detailed near- and far-field acoustic measurements were conducted for two circular stepped nozzles with 30 deg and 60 deg design inclinations at over- and perfectly-expanded supersonic jet flow conditions and compared to those for a circular nonstepped nozzle. Far-field acoustic results show that stepped nozzles play an insignificant role in altering noise emissions at perfectly expanded condition. At an over-expanded condition, however, the longer stepped nozzle produces significant noise reductions at the sideline and upstream quadrants, while the shorter stepped nozzle does not. Noise spectra analysis and Schlieren visualizations show that noise reduction can be primarily attributed to mitigations in the broadband shock-associated noise (BSAN), due to the ability of the longer stepped nozzle in suppressing shock strengths at downstream region. Near-field acoustic measurements reveal that the source region, as well as the intensity of turbulent and shock noises, are highly sensitive to the stepped nozzle configuration. Furthermore, BSAN seems to be eliminated by the longer stepped nozzle in near-field region due to the shock structure modifications.
Relationship between Gepotidacin Exposure and Prevention of On-Therapy Resistance Amplification in a Neisseria gonorrhoeae Hollow-Fiber
In Vitro
Infection Model
Authors: VanScoy Brian D. , Scangarella-Oman Nicole E. , Fikes Steven , Min Sharon , Huang Jianzhong , Ingraham Karen , Bhavnani Sujata M. , Conde Haley , Ambrose Paul G.
Published: July 2020

Multidrug-resistant
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
has emerged as a threat to global health. The relationship between gepotidacin exposure and prevention of on-therapy amplification of drug-resistant
N. gonorrhoeae
was examined using a 7-day hollow-fiber
in vitro
infection model. The study design included both inactive (no-treatment and ciprofloxacin) and active (ceftriaxone) control regimens. Study drug concentration-time profiles were simulated in the
in vitro
system for a single oral 0.
Effect of Pregnancy on Unbound Raltegravir Concentrations in the ANRS 160 RalFe Trial
Authors: Zheng Yi , Hirt Déborah , Delmas Sandrine , Lui Gabrielle , Benaboud Sihem , Lechedanec Jerome , Tréluyer Jean-Marc , Chenevier-Gobeaux Camille , Arezes Elisa , Gelley Ambre , Amri Imane , Urien Saïk , Bouazza Naïm , Foissac Frantz , Warszawski Josiane , Ghosn Jade
Published: July 2020

A population pharmacokinetic model was developed to explore the pharmacokinetics modification of unbound raltegravir during pregnancy. The RalFe ANRS160 study was a nonrandomized, open-label, multicenter trial enrolling HIV-infected pregnant women receiving a combined antiretroviral regimen containing 400 mg raltegravir twice daily. Biological samples were collected during the third trimester of pregnancy (between 30 and 37 weeks of gestational age) and at postpartum (4 to 6 weeks after delivery).
Antifungal Activity of Gepinacin Scaffold Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Anchor Biosynthesis Inhibitors with Improved Metabolic Stability
Authors: Liston Sean D. , Whitesell Luke , McLellan Catherine A. , Mazitschek Ralph , Petraitis Vidmantas , Petraitiene Ruta , Kavaliauskas Povilas , Walsh Thomas J. , Cowen Leah E.
Published: July 2020

The glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor biosynthesis inhibitor gepinacin demonstrates broad-spectrum antifungal activity and negligible mammalian toxicity in culture but is metabolically labile. The stability and bioactivity of 39 analogs were tested
in vitro
to identify LCUT-8, a stabilized lead with increased potency and promising single-dose pharmacokinetics. Unfortunately, no antifungal activity was seen at the maximum dosing achievable in a neutropenic rabbit model. Nevertheless, structure-activity relationships identified here suggest strategies to further improve compound potency, solubility, and stability.
Strong Environment-Genotype Interactions Determine the Fitness Costs of Antibiotic Resistance
In Vitro
and in an Insect Model of Infection
Authors: Manktelow C. James , Penkova Elitsa , Scott Lucy , Matthews Andrew C. , Raymond Ben
Published: July 2020

The acquisition of antibiotic resistance commonly imposes fitness costs, a reduction in the fitness of bacteria in the absence of drugs. These costs have been quantified primarily using
in vitro
experiments and a small number of
in vivo
studies in mice, and it is commonly assumed that these diverse methods are consistent. Here, we used an insect model of infection to compare the fitness costs of antibiotic resistance
in vivo
to those
in vitro
.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of the Efficacy and Safety of Interferon β-1a in Treatment of Severe COVID-19
Authors: Davoudi-Monfared Effat , Rahmani Hamid , Khalili Hossein , Hajiabdolbaghi Mahboubeh , Salehi Mohamadreza , Abbasian Ladan , Kazemzadeh Hossein , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed
Published: July 2020

To the best of our knowledge, there is no published study on the use of interferon β-1a (IFN β-1a) in the treatment of severe COVID-19. In this randomized clinical trial, the efficacy and safety of IFN β-1a were evaluated in patients with severe COVID-19. Forty-two patients in the interferon group received IFN β-1a in addition to the national protocol medications (hydroxychloroquine plus lopinavir-ritonavir or atazanavir-ritonavir). Each 44-μg/ml (12 million IU/ml) dose of interferon β-1a was subcutaneously injected three times weekly for two consecutive weeks.
Antiretroviral Penetration and Drug Transporter Concentrations in the Spleens of Three Preclinical Animal Models and Humans
Authors: Devanathan Aaron S. , Fallon John K. , White Nicole R. , Schauer Amanda P. , Van Horne Brian , Blake Kimberly , Sykes Craig , Kovarova Martina , Adamson Lourdes , Remling-Mulder Leila , Luciw Paul , Garcia J. Victor , Akkina Ramesh , Pirone Jason R. , Smith Philip C. , Kashuba Angela D. M.
Published: July 2020

Adequate antiretroviral (ARV) concentrations in lymphoid tissues are critical for optimal antiretroviral therapy (ART). While the spleen contains 25% of the body’s lymphocytes, there are minimal data on ARV penetration in this organ. This study quantified total and protein-unbound splenic ARV concentrations and determined whether drug transporters, sex, or infection status were modifiers of these concentrations in animal models and humans. Two humanized mice models (hu-HSC-Rag [n = 36; 18 HIV-positive (HIV+) and 18 HIV-negative (HIV−)] and bone marrow-liver-thymus [n = 13; 7 HIV+and 6 HIV−]) and one nonhuman primate (NHP) model (rhesus macaque [n = 18; 10 SHIV+and 8 SHIV−]) were dosed to steady state with ARV combinations.
Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment Analyses To Support Dose Selection for ME1100, an Arbekacin Inhalation Solution
Authors: Bhavnani Sujata M. , Hammel Jeffrey P. , Lakota Elizabeth A. , Safir M. Courtney , VanScoy Brian D. , Nagira Yu , Rubino Christopher M. , Sato Nobuo , Koresawa Tomokazu , Kondo Kenichiro , Ambrose Paul G.
Published: July 2020

ME1100 (arbekacin inhalation solution) is an inhaled aminoglycoside that is being developed to treat patients with hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (HABP and VABP, respectively). Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) target attainment analyses were undertaken to evaluate ME1100 regimens for the treatment of patients with HABP/VABP. The data used included a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) 4-compartment model with 1st-order elimination, nonclinical PK-PD targets from one-compartment
in vitro
and/or
in vivo
infection models, and
in vitro
surveillance data.
Heme Uptake in
Lactobacillus sakei
Evidenced by a New Energy Coupling Factor (ECF)-Like Transport System
Authors: Verplaetse Emilie , André-Leroux Gwenaëlle , Duhutrel Philippe , Coeuret Gwendoline , Chaillou Stéphane , Nielsen-Leroux Christina , Champomier-Vergès Marie-Christine
Published: July 2020

Lactobacillus sakei
is a nonpathogenic bacterial species exhibiting high fitness in heme-rich environments such as meat products, although it does not need iron or heme for growth. Heme capture and utilization capacities are often associated with pathogenic species and are considered virulence-associated factors in the infected hosts. For these reasons, iron acquisition systems have been deeply studied in such species, while for nonpathogenic bacteria the information is scarce. Genomic data revealed that several putative iron transporters are present in the genome of the lactic acid bacterium
L. sakei
. In this study, we demonstrate that one of them is an ECF-like ABC transporter with a functional role in heme transport. Such evidence has not yet been brought for an ECF; therefore, our study reveals a new class of heme transport system.
Niche- and Gender-Dependent Immune Reactions in Relation to the Microbiota Profile in Pediatric Patients with Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Enoksson Frida , Ruiz Rodriguez Alicia , Peno Chikondi , Balcazar Lopez Carlos , Tjernström Fredrik , Bogaert Debby , Hakansson Anders P. , Bergenfelz Caroline
Published: July 2020

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common inflammatory disease that primarily affects children. OME is defined as a chronic low-grade inflammation of the middle ear (ME), without any signs of infection and with effusion persisting in the ME for more than 3 months. The precise pathogenesis is, however, not fully understood. Here, we comprehensively characterized and compared the host immune responses (inflammatory cells and mediators) and the overall microbial community composition (microbiota) present in matched middle ear effusion (MEE) samples, external ear canal (EEC) lavages, and nasopharynx (NPH) samples from children with OME.
MicroRNAs Regulated by the LPS/TLR2 Immune Axis as Bona Fide Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Acute Leptospirosis
Authors: Akino Mercy Charles Solomon , Suriya Muthukumaran Natarajaseenivasan , Velusamy Prema , Bothammal Palanisamy , Sumaiya Krishnamoorthi , Saranya Perumal , Langford Dianne , Shanmughapriya Santhanam , Natarajaseenivasan Kalimuthusamy
Published: July 2020

Here, we used miRNAs that are differentially regulated by the LPS/TLR2 immune axis to devise a miRNA-based diagnosis for leptospirosis. The study established the role of the circulating stable miRNAs (miR-21-5p, miR-144-3p, and miR-let-7b-5p) as an early diagnostic marker for leptospirosis. These miRNAs can be used to diagnose acute leptospirosis and also to differentiate leptospiral infection from other bacterial and spirochetal infections, as proved by the use of human clinical samples. Thus, our findings indicate that miRNAs can play a crucial role in the diagnosis of infectious diseases, like leptospirosis, that are generally misdiagnosed.
Morphodynamic equilibrium of lowland river systems during autoretreat
Authors: Wu Chenliang , Nittrouer Jeffrey A. , Muto Tetsuji , Naito Kensuke , Parker Gary
Published: July 2020

Lowland river systems (with channel slopes of 10−5 to 10−4) inevitably shift away (retreat upstream) from the receiving basin under a sustained rate of base-level rise, even if the system can maintain a period of advance at the onset of rise. This autogenic pattern of transition from progradation to retrogradation through steady base-level rise and sediment supply is termed “autoretreat.” Using a morphodynamic model of autoretreat, this study explored the varying channel hydrodynamics of lowland fluvial systems and associated stratigraphic record under sustained base-level rise and constant sediment supply. Results from the numerical simulations show that a fluvial system will reach a state of dynamic equilibrium during autoretreat where both the backwater length and the morphodynamic adjustment of the downdip channel profile become steady. Moreover, when this dynamic equilibrium state is realized, simulated systems display a persistent twofold downstream deepening of flow depth across the backwater zone, a pattern that is also present in many natural systems. In general, backwater effects play a key role in the morphodynamics of a lowland fluvial-deltaic system during autoretreat, and this hydrodynamic condition is therefore critical for predicting river responses to sea-level change.
Factors affecting the rates of adherence to surveillance recommendations for incidental pancreatic cystic lesions in a large urban safety net hospital
Authors: Canakis Andrew , Maoz Asaf , Tkacz Jaroslaw N , Huang Christopher
Published: July 2020

Background

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are a heterogenous group of lesions with varying degrees of malignant potential. PCLs are often incidentally detected on imaging. Management for patients without an immediate indication for resection or tissue sampling entails radiographic surveillance to assess for features concerning for malignant transformation. This study aims to determine the rates of adherence to surveillance recommendations for incidental PCLs, and identify factors associated with adherence or loss of follow-up.

Methods

We conducted a single-centre retrospective study of patients at a tertiary safety net hospital with incidentally discovered asymptomatic PCLs. Follow-up was defined as having undergone repeat imaging as recommended in the radiology report. Data were analysed using logistic regression.

Results

Within our cohort (n=172), 123 (71.5%) subjects completed follow-up imaging. Attending a gastroenterology appointment was most strongly associated with completing follow-up for PCLs and remained significant (p=0.001) in a multivariate logistic regression model. Subjects without a documented primary care provider were less likely to have follow-up (p=0.028). Larger cyst size was associated with completion of follow-up in univariate only (p=0.067).

Conclusion

We found that follow-up of an incidentally discovered PCLs was completed in the majority of our subjects. Incomplete follow-up for PCLs occurred in up to one in three to four patients in our cohort. Access to primary care and utilisation of subspecialty gastroenterology care are associated with completion of follow-up for PCLs. If validated, our findings can guide potential interventions to improve follow-up rates for PCLs.