bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Foveal and Parafoveal Microvascular Changes Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Type 2 Diabetes Patients without Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy in South Korea
Authors: Park Young Gun , Kim Minhee , Roh Young Jung
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate foveal and parafoveal microvascular changes in retinal vascular plexuses in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) without clinical diabetic retinopathy (NDR) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in South Korea. We included 64 patients in the NDR group and included 48 healthy control subjects for comparison. All subjects underwent ocular examination with visual acuity and wide-field fundus photos. Foveal and parafoveal vessel density and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area (mm2) in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) were analyzed. Foveal vessel densities in both the SCP and DCP were decreased in the NDR group compared to the controls (p=0.034 and 0.001, respectively). Vessel densities in the superior and inferior parafoveae in the DCP were decreased in the NDR group compared to the controls (p=0.006 and 0.034, respectively). The FAZs of the SCP and DCP were significantly different between the NDR group and the controls (p=0.003 and 0.001, respectively). The average vessel densities of the SCP and DCP were not correlated with HbA1c, serum creatinine, or the duration of DM in the NDR group. We demonstrated that OCTA can identify early-stage DR before the manifestation of clinically apparent retinopathy in diabetic eyes. Diabetic patients without clinical DR have microvascular alterations (foveal vessel density, parts of the parafovea, and enlarged FAZ) in the SCP and DCP. Our results suggest that OCTA might be a promising tool for early detection of eyes with DR.
Mass or Energy: On Charge of Gravity
Authors: Wang Zhong-Yue
Published: August 2020

The gravitational charge should be the energy instead of the mass. This modification will lead to some different results, and the experiments to test the new idea are also presented. In particular, we figure out how to achieve the negative energy and repulsive gravitational force in the lab.
Verhaltenstherapie bei Erwachsenen mit intellektueller Beeinträchtigung: Eine systematische Review
Authors: Graser Johannes , Menge Elisa , Lyons Naomi , Willutzki Ulrike , Michalak Johannes
Published: August 2020

Hintergrund: Menschen mit intellektueller Beeinträchtigung (IB) sind häufig von psychischen Störungen betroffen. Gleichzeitig ist die psychotherapeutische Versorgung in diesem Bereich bisher unzureichend, und die Evidenz bezüglich der Wirksamkeit verhaltenstherapeutischer Interventionen bei Erwachsenen mit IB ist unklar. Ziele: Eine systematische Literaturrecherche in den Datenbanken PubMed, PsycINFO und Google Scholar wurde durchgeführt, um die aktuelle Studienlage zu verhaltenstherapeutischen Interventionen bei Menschen mit IB zu evaluieren. Ausgewählt wurden Studien zu verhaltenstherapeutischen Verfahren bei psychischen Störungen und Problemverhalten im Erwachsenenalter. Ergebnisse: Zweiunddreißig Studien entsprachen den Einschlusskriterien; es wurden sowohl einzeltherapeutische als auch gruppentherapeutische Interventionen eingeschlossen. Für Menschen mit leichter IB (IQ 50–69) und teilweise auch bei mittlerer IB (IQ 35–49) konnten in einigen Studien Hinweise auf effektive und gut umsetzbare Verfahren gefunden werden. Deutliche positive Effekte aus verschiedenen Studien zeigten sich bei depressiven Symptomen und bei aggressivem Verhalten sowohl im ambulanten wie auch im forensischen Setting. Für Angstsymptome und bei Raucherentwöhnung liegen ebenfalls positive Befunde vor. Bei psychotischen Störungen und bei pathologischem Horten muss die Wirksamkeit von verhaltenstherapeutischen Interventionen noch als unklar eingeschätzt werden. Schlussfolgerungen: Es bedarf weiterer Forschung (insbesondere randomisierter kontrollierter Studien mit aktiven Kontrollbedingungen), in der differenzierter überprüft wird, welche Aspekte der Therapien/welche Settingbedingungen die Effektivität bei den verschiedenen Graden der IB beeinflussen.
Silikon-Stents nach endobronchialer Tumorabtragung: Benefit bleibt ungewiss
Authors: Hagmeyer Lars
Published: August 2020

Background: Therapeutic bronchoscopy (TB) is an accepted strategy for the symptomatic management of central airway malignant obstruction. Stent insertion is recommended in case of extrinsic compression, but its value in preventing airway re-obstruction after endobronchial treatment without extrinsic compression is unknown. Objective: Silicone stent Placement in symptomatic airway Obstruction due to non-small cell lung Cancer (SPOC) is the first randomized controlled trial investigating the potential benefit of silicone stent insertion after successful TB in symptomatic malignant airway obstruction without extrinsic compression. Method: We planned an inclusion of 170 patients in each group (stent or no stent) over a period of 3 years with 1-year follow-up. The 1-year survival rate without symptomatic local recurrence was the main endpoint. Recurrence rate, survival, quality of life, and stent tolerance were secondary endpoints. During 1-year follow-up, clinical events were monitored by flexible bronchoscopies and were evaluated by an independent expert committee. Results: Seventy-eight patients (mean age 65 years) were randomized into 2 arms: stents (n = 40) or no stents (n = 38) after IB. Consequently, our main endpoint could not be statistically answered. Improvement of dyspnea symptoms is noticeable in each group but lasts longer in the stent group. Stents do not change the survival curve but reduce unattended bronchoscopies. In the no stent group, 19 new TB were performed with 16 stents inserted contrasting with 10 rigid bronchoscopies and 3 stents placed in the stent group. In a subgroup analysis according to the oncologic management protocol following TB (firstline treatment and other lines or palliation), the beneficial effect of stenting on obstruction recurrence was highly significant (p < 0.002), but was not observed in the naïve group, free from first-line chemotherapy. Conclusion: Silicone stent placement maintains the benefit of TB after 1 year on dyspnea score, obstruction’s recurrence, and the need for new TB. Stenting does not affect the quality of life and is suggested for patients after failure of first-line chemotherapy. It is not suggested in patients without previous oncologic treatment.
Pneumonitis als gravierende Nebenwirkung bei Asthmapatienten unter Immuntherapie
Authors: Lang Susanne M.
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Predicting the factors that increase the risk of immune-related pneumonitis, a potentially life-threatening complication of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer, is a clinical challenge. Baseline clinical factors such as asthma may portend the development of pneumonitis due to pre-existing airway inflammation prior to immunotherapy. Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate whether a prior diagnosis of asthma is associated with an increased risk of immune-related pneumonitis in patients undergoing cancer immunotherapy. Methods: Patients at the Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health undergoing immunotherapy were identified on an IRB-approved protocol. Clinical charts were reviewed for asthma documented in the medical records and CT scans were reviewed during and after treatment. Pneumonitis was defined as the onset of new pulmonary symptoms with characteristic imaging findings during or after a patient’s first course of immunotherapy that could not be readily explained as infection or a progression of malignancy. It was graded according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Results: A total of 187 patients were included. A diagnosis of asthma was found in the records of 26 cases (13.9%). Pneumonitis was found in 10 cases (5.35%); 50% were grade 2 and 50% were grade 3–4. Two of the grade 3–4 cases (40%) occurred in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer. Three patients with asthma developed pneumonitis (11.5% of patients with asthma), all grade 3–4. Only 28.6% of the non-asthma-pneumonitis cases were grade 3–4. All (100%) of the asthma-pneumonitis patients were former smokers, while 71.4% of the non-asthma-pneumonitis patients were former smokers. Conclusion: A history of asthma may be associated with a higher grade of pneumonitis if it develops, and a history of smoking may augment this relationship.
Aktuelle Konzepte zur Entstehung und Behandlung eines beatmungsinduzierten Lungenschadens
Authors: Galetke Wolfgang
Published: August 2020

Ventilation-induced lung injury results from mechanical stress and strain that occur during tidal ventilation in the susceptible lung. Classical descriptions of ventilation-induced lung injury have focused on harm from positive pressure ventilation. However, injurious forces also can be generated by patient effort and patient–ventilator interactions. While the role of global mechanics has long been recognized, regional mechanical heterogeneity within the lungs also appears to be an important factor propagating clinically significant lung injury. The resulting clinical phenotype includes worsening lung injury and a systemic inflammatory response that drives extrapulmonary organ failures. Bedside recognition of ventilation-induced lung injury requires a high degree of clinical acuity given its indistinct presentation and lack of definitive diagnostics. Yet the clinical importance of ventilation-induced lung injury is clear. Preventing such biophysical injury remains the most effective management strategy to decrease morbidity and mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome and likely benefits others at risk.
A importância da educação financeira: um estudo no ensino profissionalizante
Authors: Araújo Dhieciane De Sousa , Silva Antonia Jessyca Nayane Barbosa da , Menezes Bárbara Sampaio de , Mendes Daniel Paiva
Published: August 2020

O estudo aborda a importância da educação financeira no ensino profissionalizante, seguindo três vertentes para corroborar a visão dos discentes, docentes e supervisores de estágio. Neste sentido, as temáticas dividem-se no conhecimento na área, no ensino e sua aplicação. O objetivo geral é destacar a importância da educação financeira sob a ótica dos discentes e docentes de uma escola profissional e dos supervisores de estágio de empresas em Quixadá-CE. A pesquisa é descritiva, de natureza qualiquantitativa, considerada bibliográfica, documental e de campo. Adotou-se a técnica de análise de conteúdo para a análise dos dados qualitativos e utilizou-se uma planilha eletrônica para a análise quantitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada mediante a aplicação de um questionário e um roteiro de entrevista. Os resultados mostram que, apesar de parte dos alunos demonstrarem desinteresse pela área de finanças, eles apresentam bons conhecimentos a respeito dela, e ressaltam que a aplicabilidade do ensino na prática é considerada importante, sobretudo na contribuição para o seu desenvolvimento profissional. Os docentes avaliam que esse ensino contribui para a formação profissional deles e dos alunos, e que, com essa temática, há uma certa facilidade na execução de atividades profissionais. Já os supervisores identificam benefícios em relação ao ensino, principalmente quando se estabelece a consciência dos gastos e quando esse conhecimento proporciona melhorias na formação dos jovens. Conclui-se, portanto, que tanto os alunos como os professores e supervisores evidenciam a importância do tema e que identificam impactos positivos referentes a essa análise.
A teoria de metodologia ativa na prática: uma vivência entre pós-graduandos e graduandos numa atividade extraclasse
Authors: Silva Gabriel Pereira Gouveia da , Eguea João Paulo , Ribeiro Kandice Suane Barros , Montanari Luciana
Published: August 2020

As metodologias ativas de ensino apresentam técnicas de ensino-aprendizagem baseadas na construção ativa de conhecimento, com foco no estudante. A formação de pós-graduandos e novos docentes capazes de utilizar tais metodologias se faz necessária no cenário atual do ensino superior. O conceito de Metodologia Ativa foi apresentado aos estudantes de Pós-Graduação na disciplina de Preparação Pedagógica oferecida no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia Mecânica da Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (PPGEM-EESC USP). Para colocar em prática as metodologias apresentadas, sugeriu-se a participação dos pós-graduandos como mediadores de conhecimento em uma atividade extraclasse da disciplina de Desenho Técnico Mecânico I (DTM I), oferecida aos estudantes do curso de graduação em Engenharia Mecânica da EESC-USP. A atividade foi desenvolvida durante quatro semanas consecutivas, contando com a participação voluntária de quatro pósgraduandos e catorze estudantes de graduação. O desempenho dos estudantes de graduação participantes das atividades melhorou em relação à prova anterior e também foi superior ao desempenho médio de todos os alunos da turma. Do ponto de vista dos pós-graduandos, a atividade permitiu uma experiência de planejar e executar um plano de aula que fizesse uso de metodologias ativas em sala. Os resultados acadêmicos dos alunos de graduação e o relato dos pós-graduandos mostram como tais atividades são uma forma de melhoria do ensino e aprendizagem, com destaque para o benefício proporcionado pela integração entre alunos de graduação e de pós-graduação no contexto da formação de novos docentes.
Os professores podem fazer mapas conceituais? Sim, eles devem!
Authors: Correia Paulo Rogério Miranda , Ballego Raíssa Dos Santos , Nascimento Thalita Dos Santos
Published: August 2020

A busca por novas formas de ensinar e aprender tem colocado os mapas conceituais em evidência, como forma de representar e compartilhar o conhecimento. Entretanto, o tempo requerido para treinar os alunos na técnica de mapeamento conceitual e avaliar os mapas produzidos por eles é grande demais quando se considera a rotina profissional da maioria dos professores. Uma forma de superar esses obstáculos é colocar o professor na condição de mapeador, criando e usando os seus próprios mapas conceituais durante as aulas. Este artigo apresenta quatro diferentes atividades que podem ser elaboradas a partir de um único mapa conceitual feito pelo especialista: a visualização sistêmica dos conteúdos, a elaboração de proposições a partir de um mapa conceitual parcialmente desenvolvido, a verificação do engajamento dos alunos com os materiais de estudo e a identificação de erros no mapa conceitual. As atividades descritas são rápidas e facilmente adaptáveis pelos leitores interessados em fazer uso frequente dos mapas conceituais. A exposição regular dos alunos aos mapas feitos pelo professor pode ser o primeiro passo para que eles se tornem futuros mapeadores.
Integração ensino-serviço como estratégia na reorganização da formação do fonoaudiólogo na área de saúde do trabalhador
Authors: Lopes Andrea Cintra , Veiga Kemellyn Nayara , Gobbo Maria Paula Almeida , Bozza Amanda , Cassol Karlla , Luchi Nara Ligia Miao , Oliveira Ana Laura Spirandeli Cruz de
Published: August 2020

A integração ensino-serviço é o trabalho coletivo pactuado, articulado e integrado de estudantes de graduação e pós-graduação dos cursos de formação na área da saúde com trabalhadores que compõem as equipes dos serviços de saúde, incluindo-se aí os gestores, cuja finalidade é a qualidade de atenção à saúde individual e coletiva, a excelência da formação profissional e o desenvolvimento/satisfação dos trabalhadores dos serviços. Essa integração auxilia os serviços no desenvolvimento de ações e na educação continuada dos trabalhadores dos serviços, melhorando a qualidade da assistência, da mesma forma que auxilia na formação dos estudantes para o serviço. Trata-se de um relato de experiência realizado entre o curso de fonoaudiologia e o Cerest de Bauru-SP, no contexto de vigilância em saúde do trabalhador. Desse modo, deve ser estimulada continuamente a atitude de querer aprender e a pró-atividade em busca da autonomia, evidenciada por muitos dos alunos que propõem e desenvolvem estratégias e ações de inserção profissional nos diferentes ambientes profissionais. A partir dos estudos e da experiência na integração ensino-serviço, percebe-se que essa trajetória vem sendo construída com experiências exitosas tanto do ensino quanto do serviço. O ensino se deslumbra com novos cenários de prática, mas pouco se dedica à transformação dos processos de atenção à saúde. Embora ainda se constitua um processo lento, iniciado na década de 1970, está restrito a algumas instituições e disciplinas isoladas. É preciso um esforço conjunto para o avanço na integração ensino-serviço para se concretizarem as mudanças nos indicadores de saúde.
Relações institucionais esperadas e existentes na disciplina laboratório de ensino de matemática em um curso de graduação
Authors: Fonseca Laerte Silva da , Silva Kleyfton Soares da
Published: August 2020

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma análise institucional, cujo objetivo foi validar a institucionalização dos conhecimentos prévios esperados das disciplinas pré-requisitos de Laboratório de Ensino de Matemática. A metodologia considerou uma análise institucional fundamentada na Teoria Antropológica do Didático (CHEVALLARD, 1992), que foi conduzida em seis fases, sob alguns princípios da Engenharia Didática Clássica (ARTIGUE, 1998). Como fio condutor dessa empreitada, buscou-se responder à seguinte questão: os conhecimentos desenvolvidos nas três disciplinas pré-requisitos de Laboratório de Ensino de Matemática estão disponíveis no repertório dos estudantes matriculados e funcionando como suporte para novos conhecimentos esperados pela disciplina em questão? Os resultados revelaram a inexistência dos conhecimentos prévios esperados como disponíveis nos alunos para o bom desempenho da disciplina em análise. Dessa forma, a pesquisa mostrou a importância de uma mudança emergente nos hábitos de ensinar e aprender noções relacionadas à formação de professores de matemática.
Avaliação da percepção de graduandos da USP referente à integração do ensino acadêmico com a tecnologia em saúde
Authors: Oliveira Mariane Helen de , Lopes Larissa Novais da Silva , Gottsfritz Ingrid Bradimiller , João Luiza Lujan São , Sproesser Giovanna Bifulco , Silva Tamiris Isabeli da , Gomes Ismael Alves Lucena , Pereira Débora Dos Santos , Conde Wolney Lisboa
Published: August 2020

A demanda em integrar ensino acadêmico e as Tecnologias em Informação e Comunicação (TICs) é crescente nos dias atuais, visto que os avanços na tecnologia impactam diretamente a produção científica e estão fortemente presentes no cotidiano dos universitários. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a percepção de graduandos da área da saúde da Universidade de São Paulo, campus capital, com relação à integração entre ensino acadêmico e tecnologia, por meio de um questionário eletrônico. O questionário apresentava questões sobre o perfil do graduando, o acesso a plataformas digitais durante a formação acadêmica e na prática clínica e os conhecimentos em tecnologias adquiridos durante o curso. As frequências absoluta e relativa referentes a sexo, curso, acesso a dispositivos móveis e percepção dos universitários foram calculadas. O questionário obteve um total de 57 participantes, sendo 46 (80,7%) do sexo feminino e 11 (19,3%) do sexo masculino. Dentre os participantes, 93% referiram o uso de plataformas digitais na formação acadêmica, 94,7% demonstraram interesse em aprender mais sobre tecnologia durante a graduação, e mais de 90% apontaram que as ferramentas tecnológicas podem auxiliar na compreensão dos conteúdos ministrados em sala de aula e na aproximação da prática profissional. Evidências apontam a necessidade de implementação das TICs no sistema universitário, assim como o estímulo para a incorporação de ferramentas tecnológicas pelos docentes. Além disso, é preciso construir estratégias de ensino aprendizagem com recursos tecnológicos que acolham o conteúdo necessário para a formação do profissional da saúde.
Cultural Viz: An Aesthetic Approach to Cultural Analytics
Authors: Reyes Everardo , Manovich Lev
Published: August 2020

Cultural Analytics (C.A.) is an approach for analyzing media and digital culture using data methods and visual computing techniques. This article explores the aesthetic value of C.A. by approaching cultural visualizations as digital artworks. The authors present a variety of techniques developed since 2007 by members of the C.A. lab for creating visualizations of media artifacts and collections of images. Through a series of projects conducted by them, the authors discuss the artistic meaning of media visualizations and their experience in art exhibitions, workshops and seminars.
Animated Robotic Sculptures: Using SMA Motion Display to Create Lifelike Movements
Authors: Nakayasu Akira
Published: August 2020

This paper describes four animated robotic sculptures that are characterized by their use of shape-memory alloy motion display technologies to express lifelike movements, such as rustling leaves or squirming tentacles. These works of art combine plant and animal motifs with robotics to give their audience a sense of the objects being alive through their lifelike movements. These projects attempt to explore what it means to feel alive. They express the grotesqueness and scariness as well as the beauty of the mystery of life and living things.
Hybrid Embroidery: Exploring Interactive Fabrication in Handcrafts
Authors: Lee Yi-Chin , Llach Daniel Cardoso
Published: August 2020

This paper presents Hybrid Embroidery, a framework for interactive fabrication that leverages computational methods to broaden the possibilities of the craft of embroidery. Combining embroidery techniques, generative design methods, computer vision and a computerized embroidery machine, we show how this framework elicits a variety of innovative fabrication experiences that emphasize open-ended exploration, improvisation and play. The paper documents this framework, a series of sample results, challenges and next steps. It further outlines some of its implications for supporting creative exploration through real-time and direct manipulation of materials and close human-machine interaction.
Description of a new genus and species (Eutardigrada: Richtersiidae) from Colombia, with comments on the family Richtersiidae
Authors: LISI OSCAR , LONDOÑO ROSANA , QUIROGA SIGMER
Published: August 2020

The new genus of the macrobiotoid family Richtersiidae Guidetti, Rebecchi, Bertolani, Jönsson, Kristensen & Cesari, 2016 Crenubiotus gen. nov. is described, based on Crenubiotus crenulatus comb. nov. (Richters, 1904a) and on Colombian specimens formerly attributed to Macrobiotus cf. crenulatus and here described, after re-examination, as Crenubiotus revelator sp. nov. The new genus is characterised by an additional ventral thickening on the anterior portion of the ventral lamina, dorsal apophysis absent or very reduced, modified stylet furcae, claws equal in structure to those of Richtersius Pilato & Binda, 1989, and very probably also Adorybiotus Maucci & Ramazzotti, 1981 and Diaforobiotus Guidetti, Rebecchi, Bertolani, Jönsson, Kristensen & Cesari, 2016; and, in the known species, cuticular pores, two macroplacoids, large well dentate lunules and a characteristic egg. The new species Crenubiotus revelator sp. nov. differs from Crenubiotus crenulatus comb. nov. in having smaller cuticular pores, a medio-ventral tooth in the buccal armature, more slender buccal tube, slightly more caudal stylet supports, slightly more slender claws, and in details of the egg. The description of the new genus, and new observations on Adorybiotus, Richtersius and Diaforobiotus, allowed the authors to complete the morphological scenario within the family Richtersiidae giving further support to such family.
Iatrogenic atrial septal defect caused by repeated catheter ablation
Authors: Nagatomi Shuji , Matsumoto Kazuhisa , Imada Ryo , Ono Fumiya , Tachioka Shuji , Imoto Yutaka
Published: August 2020

Iatrogenic atrial septal defect is an issue after percutaneous interventions for structural heart disease. A 63-year-old man, who had previously received 5 catheter ablations for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, was found to have an iatrogenic atrial septal defect that persisted after the fourth intervention. Approximately 4 years later, he suffered exertional dyspnea. Pulmonary hypertension was caused by a left-to-right shunt via a large iatrogenic atrial septal defect. We performed surgical closure and the symptom improved. The timing of treatment for persistent iatrogenic atrial septal defect is difficult to determine, but preferable before the appearance of right ventricular dysfunction or embolism.
Snapshot Impact of COVID‐19 on Mental Wellness in Nonphysician Otolaryngology Health Care Workers: A National Study
Authors: Prasad Aman , Civantos Alyssa M. , Byrnes Yasmeen , Chorath Kevin , Poonia Seerat , Chang Changgee , Graboyes Evan M. , Bur Andrés M. , Thakkar Punam , Deng Jie , Seth Rahul , Trosman Samuel , Wong Anni , Laitman Benjamin M. , Shah Janki , Stubbs Vanessa , Long Qi , Choby Garret , Rassekh Christopher H. , Thaler Erica R. , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: August 2020

Objective

Nonphysician health care workers are involved in high‐risk patient care during the COVID‐19 pandemic, placing them at high risk of mental health burden. The mental health impact of COVID‐19 in this crucial population has not been studied thus far. Thus, the objective of this study is to assess the psychosocial well‐being of these providers.

Study Design

National cross‐sectional online survey (no control group).

Setting

Academic otolaryngology programs in the United States.

Subjects and Methods

We distributed a survey to nonphysician health care workers in otolaryngology departments across the United States. The survey incorporated a variety of validated mental health assessment tools to measure participant burnout (Mini‐Z assessment), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7), distress (Impact of Event Scale), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire–2). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictive factors associated with these mental health outcomes.

Results

We received 347 survey responses: 248 (71.5%) nurses, 63 (18.2%) administrative staff, and 36 (10.4%) advanced practice providers. A total of 104 (30.0%) respondents reported symptoms of burnout; 241 (69.5%), symptoms of anxiety; 292 (84.1%), symptoms of at least mild distress; and 79 (22.8%), symptoms of depression. Upon further analysis, development of these symptoms was associated with factors such as occupation, practice setting, and case load.

Conclusion

Frontline otolaryngology health care providers exhibit high rates of mental health complications, particularly anxiety and distress, in the wake of COVID‐19. Adequate support systems must be put into place to address these issues.
Correction to: Permanent iodine-125 brachytherapy for patients with progressive or recurrent high-grade gliomas
Authors: Wang Congxiao , Liu Shifeng , Peng Lijing , Zhang Kaixian , Li Wei , Zhang Hao , Luan Ying , Li Peishun , Hu Xiaokun
Published: August 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Role of residual liver volumetry and function in prediction of liver tolerability after transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients: deriving a clinical decision support score
Authors: Elsawy Abdallah A. , Dawoud Mohamed Mahmoud , Elarabawy Reda A. , Mohamed Waleed S. , Dawoud Rasha Mahmoud
Published: August 2020

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the recommended treatment modality for non-resectable intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma; however, this stage has wide variable levels of liver functions and tumor burden making a challenge as regards the tolerability of the functioning residual liver to this type of therapy. Further stratification of this intermediate stage may help the clinical decision for the suitability of TACE, so we tried to derive a clinical decision support tool to predict the tolerability of the functioning residual liver to TACE using pre-intervention liver reserve function and liver residual volume as well as tumor burden.

Results

Two hundred and fifty-two patients with non-resectable intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were consecutively included in this cohort study; all patients were blindly followed up for 6 weeks after TACE for manifestation of liver decompensation. For univariate logistic regression analysis, the significant predictors were age, s.albumin, s.bilirubin, prothrombin concentration (PC), tumor volume (TV), residual liver volume (RLV), and residual to liver volumetric ratio (RLVR) (sig, 0.007, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.002, and 0.000, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis illustrated that s.albumin, s.bilirubin, PC, and RLVR were the most independent significant predictors (sig, 0.000 for all with adjusted OR 0.002, 22.692, 0.827, and 0.000, respectively). The discriminatory performance of our proposed decision support score (liver tolerability score) was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristics that identified two cutoff points (≤ 0.30 and ≥ 0.83) to rule out or rule in the possibility of liver decompensation after TACE, respectively (AUC, 0.942 and sig. 0.000). Liver tolerability score stratified the intermediate stage of HCC to 3 risk grades (low, medium, and high) with significant difference as regards hazard distribution.

Conclusion

Computed tomography image-based assessment of RLVR may have a possible role in predicting future tolerability of the functioning residual tissue to TACE of HCC. Liver tolerability score (LTS) could stratify the intermediate stage HCC to 3 risk grades, so LTS may have a role in clinical decision for the suitability of TACE for intermediate stage HCC.
Characteristics of pediatric patients with traumatic epidural hematomas who can be safely observed: a clinical validation study
Authors: Call Lindsay , Qiu Qian , morris Jeffrey , Flaherty Brian , Vavilala Monica S. , Mills Brianna , Bratton Susan , Mossa-Basha Mahmud
Published: August 2020

Objective:

The study aimed to validate admission clinical and radiographic features of pediatric patients with traumatic epidural hematoma (EDH) that lead to safe observation.

Methods:

A Level I trauma center radiology and electronic medical record databases were retrospectively queried for pediatric patients with EDH on CT scan between 1/1/2016 and 10/1/2016. Patient imaging, treatment and outcome variables were abstracted. Characteristics of the cohort were compared to an external cohort used to develop prediction rules for surgical intervention. External validity of the prediction rules was assessed.

Results:

195 eligible subjects were included in the study, 37 of which failed observation and required surgery while 158 underwent successful observation. The surgical cohort had significantly thicker (p < .001) and higher volume (p < .001) EDH, increased midline shift (p < .001) and higher likelihood of mass effect (p < .001). There was significantly higher residual neurologic deficit rate (54% vs 23%, p < .001) and hospital mortality (5% vs 0%, p = .035) amongst the surgical group. There were significant differences in patient demographic, clinical and imaging characteristics between the internal and external cohorts. The predictive rules externally developed yielded positive predictive value of 97.7% (95% CI = 93.3–99.5%), negative predictive value of 24.5% (95% CI = 16.2–34.4%), specificity of 88.5% (95% CI = 69.9–97.6%), and sensitivity of 63.8% (95% CI = 56.6–70.5%) for successful observation.

Conclusion:

The current study validates previously developed prediction rules for safe observation of pediatric EDH in a cohort with distinct characteristics from the external cohort. Specifically, patients with no mass effect, EDH volume <15 ml and no neurological deficits are less likely to fail observation.

Advances in knowledge:

The current study validates prediction rules for safe observation of pediatric EDH in a distinct pediatric cohort that provides further support to conservative management in these circumstances.
Acceptability of newborn pulse oximetry screening
Authors: Giakoumi Maria , Budha-Magar Om Kumari , Chee Ying Hui , Kelsall Wilf Anthony
Published: August 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the acceptance of the midwives regarding the use of newborn pulse oximetry screening (NPOS) over a four-year period in a UK tertiary maternity unit.

Methods

An electronic survey of 10 questions was emailed to all midwives working in the maternity unit. Feedback was requested on their experience of performing NPOS using a feasibility scale (1=easy to 10=difficult). Other qualitative feedback explored the perceived usefulness and recollection of positive screening outcomes. The collated feedback was analysed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank test.

Results

Complete responses were received from 99 of 236 (42%) midwives. The average scale rankings of 3.46 (pre-introduction) and 2.38 (post-introduction) indicates that the responding midwives were positive about NPOS (z=-4.5575; p<0.001) and 99% (n=98) felt it was an important screening tool. Of the midwives, 38 (39%) had at least one positive screening result. Conditions identified included cardiac anomalies, sepsis and diaphragmatic hernia.

Conclusion

Our single-centre survey suggests that the NPOS has been well accepted by the midwifery staff in this maternity unit.
Viability of newborns
Authors: Winter George F
Published: August 2020

George F Winter weighs up the ethics surrounding newborn resuscitation at 22-weeks' gestational age
Remote Sensing as a Tool for Phenomenon-Based Teaching and Learning at the Elementary School Level: a Case Study for the Urban Heat Island Effect
Authors: Adaktylou Nektaria
Published: August 2020

Satellite remote sensing has been largely adopted in all kinds of environmental applications as it has proved to be an excellent tool for research and decision-making purposes. It has also been recognized as an important educational tool in the past years. However, it has been insufficiently incorporated in school practice, especially at the elementary level. This article describes the use of remotes sensing as a tool to present science topics in the elementary classroom. A phenomenon-based approach was adopted to introduce the Urban Heat Island Effect (UHI) to eighty-one second and third-grade students. The students’ experiences in their learning environment were collected with the use of a questionnaire developed for that purpose. The pedagogical approach encouraged the students’ critical thinking and individual observations to try to explain the phenomenon working with the other students and the adults in the class- room. The phenomenon-based approach, along with the powerful visualizations of the remotely sensed data kept the students motivated and active. Seventy-one percent of the students reported that this was an engaging activity, and seventy-eight percent said that they would like to participate in similar activities in the future. The rest of the responses were neutral. None of the students were previously familiar with remote sensing or the UHI. This experience showed that it is critical to have adequate and appropriate resources readily available, as well as efficient facilitation in order to tackle this pedagogical approach. The activity was organized for Earth Observation Day (EOD), 2016, in the framework of a West Virginia View funded project. EOD is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational outreach event that occurs yearly and during which scientists, all of whom are experts in remote sensing and related geospatial technologies, are available to support teachers in their respective states.
ERRATA
Authors: Menezes Luiz Maurício Bentim da Rocha
Published: August 2020

Errata a MENEZES, L. M. B. R. (2020). A consistência das teses de Trasímaco sobre a justiça no livro I da República de Platão. Archai 30, e03001.
Synergistic action of propolis with levodopa in the management of Parkinsonism in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Ayikobua Emmanuel Tiyo , Kasolo Josephine , Kasozi Keneth Iceland , Eze Ejike Daniel , Safiriyu Abass , Ninsiima Herbert Izo , Kiyimba Kennedy , Namulema Jackline , Jjesero Edward , Ssempijja Fred , Semuyaba Ibrahim , Mwandah Daniel Chans , Kimanje Kyobe Ronald , Kalange Muhamudu , Okpanachi Alfred Omachonu , Nansunga Miriam
Published: August 2020

Background

The Phosphatase and tensin-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1B9) mutant for Drosophila melanogaster is a key tool that has been used in assessing the pathology of Parkinsonism and its possible remedy. This research was targeted toward determining the effects of ethanolic extract of propolis, with levodopa therapy in the management of Parkinsonism.

Method

The PINK1B9 flies were divided into groups and fed with the different treatment doses of ethanoic extract of propolis. The treatment groups were subjected to 21 days of administration of propolis and the levodopa at different doses after which percentage climbing index, antioxidant activity and lifespan studies were done.

Results

Propolis alone improved motor activity, antioxidant and lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster than in PINK1 flies. Propolis in combination with levodopa significantly (P<0.05) improved physiological parameters at higher than lower concentrations in Parkinsonism Drosophila melanogaster demonstrating its importance in managing side effects associated with levodopa.

Conclusion

Propolis is a novel candidate as an alternative and integrative medicinal option to use in the management of Parkinsonism in both animals and humans at higher concentrations.
Global Varieties of Neoliberalism: Ideas on Free Markets and Strong States in Late Twentieth-Century Chile and Russia
Authors: Rupprecht Tobias
Published: August 2020

Neoliberalism was a global spectrum of ideas on how to create and preserve free markets in an age of popular sovereignty. A notion of a powerful state to create the institutions and mentalities needed for a liberal market society, and—if need be—to fend off potentially antiliberal democratic majorities characterized neoliberal ideas far more than antistate laissez-faire economics or apolitical technocratic visions. The article presents historical evidence from Chile and Russia from the 1960s to the 1990s to make the case that global varieties of neoliberal ideas were created in different local contexts. These ideas were not imposed or imported from without; they emerged from domestic intellectual trajectories and in engagement with local political and economic conditions before their carriers connected to other, both Western and “peripheral,” varieties of neoliberalism. Actual economic reforms undertaken in these countries were not a wholesale implementation of a neoliberal agenda or manifestations of a globally hegemonic “governmentality”; rather, they were the outcome of multiple ideational influences and, more crucially, the result of domestic political power play.
Corrigendum to: Management of Tricuspid Regurgitation: The Role of Transcatheter Therapies
Authors: Taramasso Maurizio , Calen Christelle , Guidotti Andrea , Kuwata Shingo , Cetina Biefer Hector Rodriguez , Nietlispach Fabian , Zuber Michel , Maisano Francesco
Published: August 2020

Fabian Nietlispach, Michel Zuber and Francesco Maisano
Heart Valve Clinic, University Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Information: the Key to a Safe PracticeInformation: the Key to a Safe Practice
Authors: Montero-Aguilar Mauricio
Published: August 2020

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Annotated checklist of butterflies of Ankleshwar—an industrial town in Gujarat, India
Authors: Sidat Azaz , Bhatt Urjit
Published: August 2020

Urbanization threatens the diversity of butterflies due to habitat fragmentation with environmental degradation. Butterflies, as potent pollinators and ecological indicators, are important in conservation planning and environmental monitoring. This study provides a comprehensive insight into the species diversity of butterflies in Ankleshwar, an industrial town in Gujarat, India, and has potential use in urban planning and conservation. A total of 63 species belonging to five families were photo-documented and identified. The richest family was Nymphalidae, followed by Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Hesperiidae, and Papilionidae. Junonia Hübner, [1819] and Colotis Hübner, [1819] were the dominant genera with five species each. Six species have the IUCN status of Least Concern but 57 species are Not Evaluated. Seven species are afforded protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This study highlights the need to conserve rare and threatened butterfly species.
AlSi10Mg alloy infiltration into porous SiC structures manufactured by sponge replication
Authors: Soy Ugur , Demir Adem
Published: August 2020

An AlSi10Mg aluminium casting alloy is infiltrated into porous silicon carbide (SIC) structures, and the microstructural, mechanical and physical properties of aluminium composites are investigated. Silicon carbide porous structures were formed by the polymeric template sponge replica method. Reticulated and open-pore polyurethane sponges with 45, 60 and 80 pores per inch were used for the polymeric replica application. The high-pressure die casting method was preferred to infiltrate the liquid aluminium alloy into porous ceramic structures. An AlSi10Mg aluminium casting alloy was used as the matrix alloy for the manufacturing of aluminium matrix composites. Molten aluminium alloy was pushed into the mould cavity for 5 s with 8 atm piston pressure. Microstructural, mechanical and physical properties of aluminium composites were examined, and the analyses of energy-dispersive spectrometry, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy and tensile test were performed for this. The experimental density of the non-reinforced sample was obtained as 2.62 g cm−3, while the composites were changed between 2.71 and 2.72 g cm−3 according to the pore structure. The highest tensile strength value was determined in aluminium composites with a pore density of 80 ppi reinforcement element with a value of 160 MPa.
Formulation of a Tropical Beverage by Applying Heat Treatment and High Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Marengo-Orozco Carla , Tarazona-Díaz Martha Patricia , Rodríguez Ligia Inés
Published: August 2020

Research background Passion fruit and carrot with vegetables that contain a good antioxidant capacity, however, their consumption is low. There is no information available on the use of these in beverages and with processes such as high hydrostatic pressures that allow the safety of the drink without affecting its quality.
Experimental approach. In this study the effect of high hydrostatic pressures (HHP) (500 MPa, 250 s, 25 °C) and thermal processing (65 °C, 10 min; 75 °C, 2 min and 95 °C, 1 min) were evaluated, in the formulation of a cold pressed beverage composed of purple passion fruit, green passion fruit and carrot juice; Taking into account: antioxidant capacity, vitamin C content, sensorial evaluation and microbiological behavior at 8 °C.
Results and conclusions. The formulation, 67 % purple passion fruit, 17 % green passion fruit and 17 % carrot was the one that stood out for its antioxidant capacity, high vitamin C content and sensorial evaluation. The HHP method preserved the antioxidant capacity and vitamin C, generated the best scent and showed no microbial growth during storage at 8 °C.
Novelty and scientific contribution. In this study were used tropical raw materials that have good sensory acceptance and antioxidant capacity, which could be used in the generation of high value-added foods. Additionally, the research demonstrated that HHP is a conservation method that maintains the antioxidant capacity, vitamin C and aroma of the beverage to a greater extent compared to thermal treatments; the latter is of interest for its use in minimally processed products and functional food.
Formation of information on cash flows for the purpose of investment decisions
Authors: Efimova Olga V.
Published: August 2020

Importance. The article explores the usefulness of cash flow information disclosed in financial and corporate reports and its relevance to the information needs of the investment community. The analytical capabilities of financial reporting for forecasting and financial modeling purposes are limited by the insufficient completeness of disclosures necessary for the development of forecast models. Along with financial reporting indicators, investors, analysts and companies themselves are actively using alternative indicators of cash flows or non-GAAP indicators. The variety of approaches to the determination of non-GAAP indicators reduces the reliability of the investment analysis, on the one hand, and creates conditions for data manipulation, on the other. Objectives. A comprehensive author's study of the forming reliable information about the business ability to create cash flows in the interest of making investment decisions. Methods. In the research process, we used the methods of logical, statistical, comparative, as well as linguistic analysis. As the main objects of comparative analysis, we considered indicators of profit indicators before interest, taxes and depreciation, free cash flow, net debt and their ratios. In order to characterize the significance of these indicators for assessing the investment attractiveness of issuers, we provided the analysis of the metallurgical companies` dividend policy and its connection with considering metrics. Results. The results of the study include recommendations on the cash flow disclosure in order to increase the validity of investment decisions. We focused on those aspects of cash flow disclosures that could significantly affect the investment assessment. Conclusions and Relevance. The study showed that the methodology for the formation of cash flow indicators in the organizations is affected by different factors. In order to provide information for cash flow forecast and modelling, reporting companies should disclose data on strategies, business models, sources of cash flows and directions of their use. Non-GAAP indicators` disclosure should be based on the same principles that apply in preparing financial statements. All material adjustments carried out with the calculation of the non-GAAP indicators should be presented to users.
Onerous contracts: economics and reporting
Authors: Rozhnova Olga V.
Published: August 2020

Importance. The article discusses issues of reflecting onerous contracts in financial reporting prepared in accordance with IFRS and focuses on the impact of these contracts on businesses and the economy as a whole. Main provisions for onerous contracts reporting are analyzed and possible solutions for reporting issues are proposed. Special attention is devoted to importance of professional judgment and mutual correlation of information disclosures in various types of reporting. Objectives. Present author's research of the problem of accounting reflection of burdensome contracts and develop new proposals for disclosure of onerous contracts in the financial statements. Methods. Research is based on methods of logic, analogy and statistical analysis. Results. Stakeholders do not receive relevant information regarding the risks generated by onerous contracts and the risks they offset. The rules for forming financial statements regarding such agreements are not always detailed and leave room for various interpretations. Conclusions and Relevance. It is concluded that it is necessary to provide stakeholders with more complete information about onerous contracts based on the use of consolidated financial and non-financial reporting data, disclosure of risks caused by onerous contracts and mitigated by them. It is concluded that similar disclosures are useful for loss-making contracts prepared and structured using method of professional judgment and responsibility.