bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of changes in shoulder balance and prediction of final shoulder imbalance during growing-rod treatment for early-onset scoliosis
Authors: Liu Ziyang , Liu Tie , Hai Yong , Wu Lingyun , Hai Junrui Jonathan , Gao Kang , Guo Xuanrong , Yang Honghao , Kang Nan , Zhao Fan
Published: April 2021

Background

Obtaining and maintaining final shoulder balance after the entire treatment course is essential for early-onset scoliosis (EOS) patients. The relatively small number of growing-rod (GR) graduates who complete final fusion has resulted in an overall paucity of research on the GR treatment of EOS and a lack of research on the shoulder balance of EOS patients during GR treatment.

Methods

Twenty-four consecutive patients who underwent GR treatment until final fusion were included. Radiographic shoulder balance parameters, including the radiographic shoulder height (RSH), clavicle angle (CA), and T1 tilt angle (T1T), before and after each step of the entire treatment were measured. Shoulder balance changes from GR implantation to the last follow-up after final fusion were depicted and analysed. Demographic data, surgical-related factors, and radiographic parameters were analysed to identify risk factors for final shoulder imbalance. The shoulder balance of patients at different time points was further analysed to explore the potential effect of the series of GR treatment steps on shoulder balance.

Results

The RSH showed substantial improvement after GR implantation (P = 0.036), during the follow-up period after final fusion (P = 0.021) and throughout the entire treatment (P = 0.011). The trend of change in the CA was similar to that of the RSH, and the T1T improved immediately after GR implantation (P = 0.037). Further analysis indicated that patients with shoulder imbalance before final fusion showed significantly improved shoulder balance after fusion (P = 0.045), and their RSH values at early postfusion and the final follow-up did not show statistically significant differences from those in the prefusion shoulder balance group (P > 0.05). Early postfusion shoulder imbalance (odds ratio (OR): 19.500; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.777–213.949; P = 0.015) was identified as an independent risk factor for final shoulder imbalance.

Conclusions

Shoulder balance could be improved by GR implantation but often changes during the multistep lengthening process, and the final result is relatively unpredictable. Final fusion could further adjust the prefusion shoulder imbalance. Focusing on the prefusion shoulder balance of GR graduates and providing patients with early shoulder balance after fusion might be necessary.
Acromegaly presenting with myelopathy due to ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament: a case report
Authors: Kamakura Daisuke , Fukutake Katsunori , Nakamura Kazumasa , Tsuge Shintaro , Hasegawa Keiji , Tochigi Naobumi , Wada Akihito , Mikami Tetsuo , Takahashi Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Background

Acromegaly is a rare disease caused by high serum levels of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), often originating from a pituitary adenoma. Spinal and peripheral joint abnormalities are caused by these hormonal hypersecretions. In particular, the response to GH is involved in the onset of ossification of the spinal ligament in vitro, especially ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). However, because acromegaly and OPLL are rare diseases, we seldom encounter them in combination. To the best of our knowledge in the English-language literature, this is the first reported case of acromegaly presenting with thoracic myelopathy due to OPLL.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old woman presented with lower extremity weakness and paresthesia, gait disorder, and bladder disorder without any trauma. The patient’s most remarkable symptom was paraplegia, and we diagnosed myelopathy due to cervical and thoracic OPLL. Furthermore, we suspected acromegaly because of the characteristic facial features, and we found a pituitary adenoma by contrast-enhanced MRI. Cervical and thoracic decompression, posterior fixation, and pituitary adenoma resection were performed.

Conclusion

We report a case of acromegaly that was detected after the diagnosis of OPLL. The main challenge in acromegaly is delayed in diagnosis. Even in this case, the facial features characteristic of acromegaly had appeared at least 9 years ago. Early diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly improve prognosis and reduce exposure to GH and IGF-1 through early intervention and seem to suppress the progression of ligament ossification. Orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons need to keep in mind that acromegaly is associated with bone/joint lesions and ossification of the spinal ligament and should aim to diagnose acromegaly early.
Fears and barriers: problems in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Pakistan
Authors: Saeed Sidra , Asim Muhammad , Sohail Malik Muhammad
Published: April 2021

Background

Women in Pakistan lack appropriate awareness about diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer due to a range of multifaceted barriers. There is a dearth of literature examining the socio-cultural factors that inhibit women from breast cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment in Punjab, Pakistan. Addressing this gap, this qualitative study sought to identify and explore the barriers that hinder women from seeking timely screening and treatment.

Methods

In this process 45 women (age = 18–50 years) with breast cancer were purposively sampled and interviewed from the Punjab Institute of Nuclear Medicine (PINUM) hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Results

An inductive approach was used to analyze the data which resulted in the emergence of eight subthemes under the umbrella of three major themes that delineate individual, socio-cultural and structural barriers to seek screening and treatment of breast cancer in Punjab. Individual barriers included lack of awareness, hesitance in accepting social support, and spiritual healing. The identified socio-cultural factors included feminine sensitivity, stigmatization, and aversion to male doctors. Lack of financial resources and apathetic medical services were structural barriers that hinder screening and treatment.

Conclusions

These barriers can be addressed through raising awareness and community mobilization about breast-self exam and treatment. The healthcare system should also pay attention to socio-psychological and cultural factors impeding women's access to available health facilities.
Enabling personal recovery from fibromyalgia – theoretical rationale, content and meaning of a person-centred, recovery-oriented programme
Authors: Mengshoel Anne Marit , Skarbø Åse , Hasselknippe Elisabeth , Petterson Tamara , Brandsar Nina Linnea , Askmann Ellen , Ildstad Ragnhild , Løseth Lena , Sallinen Merja Helena
Published: April 2021

Background

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a contested, chronic widespread pain syndrome on which recommended therapies have short-lasting, moderate effects. Nevertheless, some patients become symptom-free, and their recovery experiences inspired us to develop a patient-centred recovery-oriented programme (PROP) delivered in a group format. Presently, we describe the theoretical rationale, purpose and content of the PROP, and its meanings for clinicians and patients.

Methods

A multidisciplinary clinical team, a leader of a rehabilitation unit, and two researchers coproduced the PROP. Five full-day seminars were arranged to bridge research and clinical experiences. Qualitative studies about patients’ illness and recovery experiences and questions by researchers facilitated reflections on clinical experiences. The meaning of the PROP was examined using focus group and individual interviews with patients and clinicians immediately after completing the course and after 1–1.5 years.

Results

The biopsychosocial model displays the research evidence across biological, mental and social impacts of FM, justifying that life stress can be an illness-maintaining factor in FM. The content addresses enabling patients to heal their own life and self by modifying life stress. Patients engage in making sense of the relationship between FM, themselves, and life through exploring, discovering and creating appropriate solutions for their daily social life. The PROP reduced uncertainties and brought a positive attitude and hope to the groups. After 1 year, patients are still engaged in recovery work, experience more good days, and maintain hope for further recovery. By sharing and reflecting on clinical experiences, a unified clinical team was established that continues to develop their competency.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, the PROP is the first programme for patients with FM that results from a process of coproducing knowledge, is based on explicit theoretical rationale, and facilitates a personal experiential recovery process. PROP is found to be meaningful and to work by patients and clinicians.
Developing a district level supportive supervision framework for community health workers through co-production in South Africa
Authors: Assegaai Tumelo , Schneider Helen , Scott Vera
Published: April 2021

Background

One of the key challenges of community health worker (CHW) programmes across the globe is inadequate supervision. Evidence on effective approaches to CHW supervision is limited and intervention research has up to now focused primarily on outcomes and less on intervention development processes. This paper reports on participatory and iterative research on the supervision of CHWs, conducted in several phases and culminating in a co-produced district level supportive supervision framework for Ward Based Outreach Teams in a South African district.

Methods

Drawing on a conceptual framework of domains of co-production, the paper reflects on the implications of the research process adopted for participants, generation of research knowledge and recommendations for practice, as well as lessons for research on the supervision of CHWs.

Results

Through the research process, participants reflected and engaged meaningfully, honestly and productively across hierarchies, and were able to forge new, dialogic relationships. The iterative, back forth feedback, involving a core group of participants across phases, enabled additions and validations, and informed further data collection. The culmination of the process was consensus on the key issues facing the programme and the generation of a set of recommendations for a local, context-specific framework of supportive supervision. The process of engagement, relationships built and consensus forged proved to be more significant than the framework itself.

Conclusion

The co-production approach can enable local impact of research findings by providing a bottom-up collaborative platform of active participation, iterative feedback, knowledge generation and mutual learning that can complement guidance and frameworks from above. Although time consuming and not without its limitations, this approach to research has much to offer in advancing understanding of CHW supervision.
Correction to: Intraoperative surgical site infection control and prevention: a position paper and future addendum to WSES intra-abdominal infections guidelines
Authors: De Simone Belinda , Sartelli Massimo , Coccolini Federico , Ball Chad G. , Brambillasca Pietro , Chiarugi Massimo , Campanile Fabio Cesare , Nita Gabriela , Corbella Davide , Leppaniemi Ari , Boschini Elena , Moore Ernest E. , Biffl Walter , Peitzmann Andrew , Kluger Yoram , Sugrue Michael , Fraga Gustavo , Di Saverio Salomone , Weber Dieter , Sakakushev Boris , Chiara Osvaldo , Abu-Zidan Fikri M. , ten Broek Richard , Kirkpatrick Andrew W. , Wani Imtiaz , Coimbra Raul , Baiocchi Gian Luca , Kelly Micheal D. , Ansaloni Luca , Catena Fausto
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Enhancing psychological safety in mental health services
Authors: Hunt D. F. , Bailey J. , Lennox B. R. , Crofts M. , Vincent C.
Published: April 2021

Background

Psychological safety—speaking up about ideas and concerns, free from interpersonal risk—are essential to the high-risk environment, such as healthcare settings. Psychologically safe working is particularly important in mental health where recovery-oriented approaches rely on collaborative efforts of interprofessional teams to make complex decisions. Much research focuses on antecedents and outcomes associated with psychological safety, but little focus on the practical steps for how to increase psychological safety across and at different levels of a healthcare organisation.

Aims

We explore how a mental health organisation creates an organisation-wide plan for building the foundations of mental health and how to enhance psychological safety.

Methods

This review encompasses strategies across psychological safety and organisational culture change to increase psychological safety at an individual, team and organisational level.

We set out a comprehensive overview of the types of strategies and interventions for increasing the ethos of psychological safety and setting the foundations for delivering an organisation-wide programme on this topic. We also provide a list of key targeted areas in mental health that would maximally benefit from increasing psychological safety—both in clinical and non-clinical settings.

Conclusions

Psychological safety is a crucial determinant of safe and effective patient care in mental health services. This paper provides the key steps and considerations, creating a large-scale programme in psychological safety with a focus on mental health and drawing from the current literature, providing concrete steps for how our current understanding of psychological safety into practice.
PRMT1-mediated H4R3me2a recruits SMARCA4 to promote colorectal cancer progression by enhancing EGFR signaling
Authors: Yao Bing , Gui Tao , Zeng Xiangwei , Deng Yexuan , Wang Zhi , Wang Ying , Yang Dongjun , Li Qixiang , Xu Peipei , Hu Ruifeng , Li Xinyu , Chen Bing , Wang Jin , Zen Ke , Li Haitao , Davis Melissa J. , Herold Marco J. , Pan Hua-Feng , Jiang Zhi-Wei , Huang David C. S. , Liu Ming , Ju Junyi , Zhao Quan
Published: April 2021

Background

Aberrant changes in epigenetic mechanisms such as histone modifications play an important role in cancer progression. PRMT1 which triggers asymmetric dimethylation of histone H4 on arginine 3 (H4R3me2a) is upregulated in human colorectal cancer (CRC) and is essential for cell proliferation. However, how this dysregulated modification might contribute to malignant transitions of CRC remains poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we integrated biochemical assays including protein interaction studies and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), cellular analysis including cell viability, proliferation, colony formation, and migration assays, clinical sample analysis, microarray experiments, and ChIP-Seq data to investigate the potential genomic recognition pattern of H4R3me2s in CRC cells and its effect on CRC progression.

Results

We show that PRMT1 and SMARCA4, an ATPase subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, act cooperatively to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. We find that SMARCA4 is a novel effector molecule of PRMT1-mediated H4R3me2a. Mechanistically, we show that H4R3me2a directly recruited SMARCA4 to promote the proliferative, colony-formative, and migratory abilities of CRC cells by enhancing EGFR signaling. We found thatEGFRandTNS4were major direct downstream transcriptional targets of PRMT1 and SMARCA4 in colon cells, and acted in a PRMT1 methyltransferase activity-dependent manner to promote CRC cell proliferation. In vivo, knockdown or inhibition of PRMT1 profoundly attenuated the growth of CRC cells in the C57BL/6 J-ApcMin/+CRC mice model. Importantly, elevated expression of PRMT1 or SMARCA4 in CRC patients were positively correlated with expression of EGFR and TNS4, and CRC patients had shorter overall survival. These findings reveal a critical interplay between epigenetic and transcriptional control during CRC progression, suggesting that SMARCA4 is a novel key epigenetic modulator of CRC. Our findings thus highlight PRMT1/SMARCA4 inhibition as a potential therapeutic intervention strategy for CRC.

Conclusion

PRMT1-mediated H4R3me2a recruits SMARCA4, which promotes colorectal cancer progression by enhancing EGFR signaling.
Classical isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) and Akt regulate the osteogenic differentiation of human dental follicle cells via both β-catenin and NF-κB
Authors: Pieles Oliver , Reichert Torsten E. , Morsczeck Christian
Published: April 2021

Background

Human dental follicle cells (DFCs) are the precursor cells of the periodontium with a high potential for regenerative therapies of (alveolar) bone. However, the molecular mechanisms of osteogenic differentiation are inadequately understood. Classical isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) are reported to inhibit osteogenesis of stem/precursor cells. This study evaluated the role of classical PKCs and potential downstream targets on the osteogenic differentiation of DFCs.

Methods

DFCs were osteogenic differentiated with dexamethasone or bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2). Expression of PKC and potential upstream/downstream regulators was manipulated using activators, inhibitors, and small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA). Expression of proteins was examined by Western blot analysis, while the activation levels of enzymes and transcription factors were examined by their phosphorylation states or by specific activation assays. Expression levels of osteogenic markers were examined by RT-qPCR (reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction) analysis. Activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and accumulation of calcium nodules by Alizarin Red staining were measured as indicators of mineralization.

Results

Classical PKCs like PKCα inhibit the osteogenic differentiation of DFCs, but do not interfere with the induction of differentiation. Inhibition of classical PKCs by Gö6976 enhanced activity of Akt after osteogenic induction. Akt was also regulated during differentiation and especially disturbed BMP2-induced mineralization. The PKC/Akt axis was further shown to regulate the canonical Wnt signaling pathway and eventually nuclear expression of active β-catenin during dexamethasone-induced osteogenesis. Moreover, the nuclear factor “kappa-light-chain-enhancer” of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway is regulated during osteogenic differentiation of DFCs and via the PKC/Akt axis and disturbs the mineralization. Upstream, parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) sustained the activity of PKC, while Wnt5a inhibited it.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that classical PKCs like PKCα and Akt regulate the osteogenic differentiation of DFCs partly via both β-catenin and NF-κB.
Comparison of FDG and FMISO uptakes and distributions in head and neck squamous cell cancer tumors
Authors: Nehmeh Sadek A. , Moussa Mohamed B. , Lee Nancy , Zanzonico Pat , Gönen Mithat , Humm John L. , Schöder Heiko
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Glycolysis is increased by hypoxia, suggesting a possible correlation between the accumulation of 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) in malignant tumors and regional hypoxia defined by 1H-1-(3-[18F]fluoro-2-hydroxypropyl)-2-nitroimidazole (FMISO) PET. The aim of this study is to investigate the intra-tumoral spatial distribution and quantitative relationship between FDG and FMISO in a cohort of head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) patients.

Methods

Twenty HNSCC patients with 20 primary tumors and 19 metastatic lymph nodes (LNs) underwent FDG and FMISO PET within 1 week. The metabolic target volume (MTV) was defined on the FDG PET images using a region growing algorithm. The hypoxic volume (HV) was defined by the volume of voxels in an FMISO image within the MTV that satisfy a tumor-to-blood ratio (T/B) greater than 1.2. FDG and FMISO lesions were co-registered, and a voxel-by-voxel correlation between the two datasets was performed. FDG and FMISO TVs’ SUVs were also compared as well as the intra-tumoral homogeneity of the two radiotracers. Separate analysis was performed for the primary tumors and LNs.

Results

Twenty-six percent of the primary tumors and 15% of LNs showed a strong correlation (R > 0.7) between FDG and FMISO intra-tumor distributions when considering the MTV. For the HV, only 19% of primary tumors and 12% of LN were strongly correlated. A weak and moderate correlation existed between the two markers SUVavg, and SUVmax in the case of the primary tumors, respectively. However, this was not the case for the LNs. Good concordances were also observed between the primary tumor’s and LNs HV SUVavgs as well as between the corresponding hypoxic fractions (HF’s).

Conclusions

A moderate correlation between FDG and hypoxia radiotracer distribution, as measured by FMISO, seems to exist for primary tumors. However, discordant results were found in the case of LNs. Hypoxia appears to be the dominant driver of high FDG uptake in selected tumors only, and therefore FDG PET images cannot be used as a universal surrogate to identify or predict intra-tumor hypoxia.
The effectiveness of supplemental oxygen during exercise training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who show severe exercise-induced desaturation: a protocol for a meta-regression analysis and systematic review
Authors: Kawachi Shohei , Yamamoto Shuhei , Nishie Kenichi , Yamaga Takayoshi , Shibuya Manaka , Sakai Yasunari , Fujimoto Keisaku
Published: April 2021

Background

Supplemental oxygen during exercise training is used to increase the training effect of an exercise program in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who show exercise-induced desaturation. Exercise-induced desaturation is not clearly defined in the guidelines; however, it is generally defined in clinical studies as a decrease in SpO2 of more than 4% from rest or a decrease to less than 88% during exercise. Although some meta-analyses examined the effectiveness of supplemental oxygen during exercise training, these studies concluded that it does not further improve exercise tolerance compared to exercise training alone. However, supplemental oxygen during exercise training may be effective in improving exercise tolerance in COPD patients with severe exercise-induced desaturation. Therefore, this study will be performed to elucidate the effectiveness of supplemental oxygen during exercise training and the relationship between its effectiveness and severity of exercise-induced desaturation at baseline.

Methods

We will first assess the effectiveness of supplemental oxygen during exercise training in COPD. The main outcome is the change in exercise tolerance before and after the intervention, indicated by the 6-min walking distance, the walking distance, or the walking time in incremental shuttle walking test, and analyzed as the standardized mean difference (SMD). The quality and risk of bias in individual studies will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system and risk-of-bias tool (RoB ver.2). If statistical heterogeneity in terms of the effectiveness of exercise tolerance is shown, we will conduct meta-regression analyses to examine the association between the effectiveness of exercise training with supplemental oxygen and severity of exercise-induced desaturation at baseline.

Discussion

One strength of this study is that it is a systematic review with meta-regression analysis to elucidate the effectiveness of supplemental oxygen during exercise training in patients with COPD who show severe exercise-induced desaturation. Furthermore, we will assess the severity of exercise-induced desaturation for which exercise training with supplemental oxygen is effective, the influence of acute effects at baseline, and the effect of supplemental oxygen on adverse events.

Systematic review registration

Registration number, UMIN000039960.
Correction to: LncRNA APCDD1L-AS1 induces icotinib resistance by inhibition of EGFR autophagic degradation via the miR-1322/miR-1972/ miR-324-3p-SIRT5 axis in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Jie , Zheng Chunlei , Wang Yizhe , Yang Zichang , Li Ce , Fang Wanxia , Jin Yue , Hou Kezuo , Cheng Yang , Qi Jianfei , Qu Xiujuan , Liu Yunpeng , Che Xiaofang , Hu Xuejun
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Science and mathematics teacher communities of practice: social influences on discipline-based identity and self-efficacy beliefs
Authors: Polizzi Samuel J. , Zhu Yicong , Reid Joshua W. , Ofem Brandon , Salisbury Sara , Beeth Michael , Roehrig Gillian , Mohr-Schroeder Margaret , Sheppard Keith , Rushton Gregory T.
Published: April 2021

Background

Teacher communities of practice, identity, and self-efficacy have been proposed to influence positive teacher outcomes in retention, suggesting all three may be related constructs. Qualitative studies of communities of practice can be difficult to empirically link to identity and self-efficacy in larger samples. In this study, we operationalized teacher communities of practice as specific networks related to teaching content and/or pedagogy. This scalable approach allowed us to quantitatively describe communities of practice and explore statistical relationships with other teacher characteristics. We asked whether these community of practice networks were related to identity and self-efficacy, similar to other conceptualizations of communities of practice.

Results

We analyzed survey data from 165 in-service K-12 teachers prepared in science or mathematics at 5 university sites across the USA. Descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analyses indicated that math teachers consistently reported smaller communities of practice and lower identity and self-efficacy scores. Correlations revealed that communities of practice are more strongly and positively related to identity than self-efficacy.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that teacher communities of practice can be described as networks. These community of practice networks are correlated with teacher identity and self-efficacy, similar to published qualitative descriptions of communities of practice. Community of practice networks are therefore a useful research tool for evaluating teacher characteristics such as discipline, identity, self-efficacy, and other possible outcomes (e.g., retention). These findings suggest that teacher educators aiming to foster strong teacher identities could develop pre-service experiences within an explicit, energizing community of practice.
Biocontrol potential of bacteriophage ɸsp1 against bacterial wilt-causing Ralstonia solanacearum in Solanaceae crops
Authors: Umrao Pramila Devi , Kumar Vineet , Kaistha Shilpa Deshpande
Published: April 2021

Background

Bacteriophages are effective biocontrol strategy as well as ecofriendly remedy for the emerging antibiotic and chemical resistance in bacterial phytopathogens such as bacterial wilt-causing Ralstonia solanacearum. One of the major challenges in the use of bacteriophage therapy for agricultural phytopathogens is maintaining their viability even during variations in pH, temperature, ultraviolet irradiation, and desiccation during field application for sustainable agriculture.

Results

In this study, the isolation and characterization of phage ɸsp1 for its efficacy against wilt-causing R. solanacearum performed on Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) seedlings and Solanum tuberosum (potato) tuber assay are reported. Bacteriophage was found to be viable and stable at a wide pH range (3.0–9.0) and at temperatures up to 55 °C. Phage ɸsp1 required ~15 min for adsorption and completed its life cycle in 25–30 min by host cell lysis with a burst size of ~250–300. Phage ɸsp1 eradicated 94.73% preformed R. solanacearum biofilm and inhibited biofilm formation by 73.68% as determined by the static crystal violet microtiter biofilm assay. Transmission electron microscope revealed the phage ɸsp1 to be approximately 208±15 nm in size, comprising of icosahedral head (100 ±15 nm) and tail, as belonging to Myoviridae family. Plant bioassays showed 81.39 and 87.75% reduction in pathogen count using phages ɸsp1 in potato tuber and tomato seedlings, respectively. Reversal in disease symptoms was 100% in phage-treated tuber and tomato plant (pot assay) compared to only pathogen-treated controls.

Conclusion

Isolated bacteriophage ɸsp1 was found to be highly host specific, effective in biofilm prevention, and capable of inhibiting bacterial wilt at low multiplicity of infection (1.0 MOI) in tomato as well as potato tuber bioassays. Phages ɸsp1 were environmentally stable as they survive at variable pH and temperature. Bacteriophage ɸsp1 shows a promise for development into a biocontrol formulation for the prevention of R. solanacearum bacterial wilt disease.
Petrographically quantifying the damage to field and lab-cast mortars subject to freeze-thaw cycles and deicer application
Authors: Qiao Chunyu , Hosseinzadeh Nima , Suraneni Prannoy , Wei Sihang , Rothstein David
Published: April 2021

Although calcium oxychloride (Ca-Oxy) is known to damage cementitious materials exposed to calcium chloride (CaCl2) deicers, there is little direct observation of Ca-Oxy in the field due to its instability. This paper uses optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX) to detect the formed Ca-Oxy and quantify its associated damage in a field mortar subject to freeze-thaw cycles and deicer application. The characterized damage in the field mortar is compared to that in lab-cast portland cement paste and mortar which are submerged in a CaCl2 solution of 25 wt.% under freeze-thaw cycles (− 8 to 25 °C). The field and lab-cast mortars show similar cracking patterns that are parallel to the exposure surface with a variation of 30–45° in the preferred orientation due to the constraints of sand particles. During each lab-controlled freeze-thaw cycle, the high CaCl2 concentration of 25 wt.% stabilizes the formed Ca-Oxy, which continually damages the mortar and eventually results in 3–4 times higher crack density compared to that in the field mortar. SEM-EDX analysis confirms the presence of secondary deposits including Friedel’s salt, ettringite and Ca-Oxy. Image analysis on thin section photomicrographs shows a reduction of 86.4% in calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) content in the damaged field mortar compared to the undamaged field mortar, suggesting significant leaching of Ca(OH)2 to form Ca-Oxy due to the deicer application.
Comparison of Alvarado score and pediatric appendicitis score for clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children—a prospective study
Authors: Iftikhar Muhammad Adil , Dar Sajid Hameed , Rahman Usman Ali , Butt Maliha Javaid , Sajjad Mohammad , Hayat Umar , Sultan Nayyar
Published: April 2021

Background

Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical condition of children. Differential diagnosis of an acutely inflamed appendix in children includes a vast variety of diseases which can present with the same symptoms and signs as acute appendicitis. It is an important factor for delay in diagnosis. Many scoring systems are being used to reach a diagnosis within time and to reduce the rate of negative appendectomies.

The purpose of this study was to compare both scoring systems (Alvarado and pediatric appendicitis scoring system) and to know which one is better to establish an early correct diagnosis of acute appendicitis in pediatrics, thus decreasing the morbidity and burden on hospital resources. Although many studies had been completed at the international level for comparing both of these scoring systems, the pediatric population in our region was still awaiting such an effort.

So a prospective cohort study was designed. A total of 180 patients were recruited with 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error. Every enrolled patient was awarded clinical scores according to both the Alvarado scoring system and the pediatric appendicitis scoring system. Patients having a score of 7 or more by both scoring systems were considered “seven or more than seven group” and their appendectomies were performed and histopathology reports were reviewed. Patients having a score of 7 in one system and less than 7 in the other/both were considered “less than seven group” and were admitted in the ward for further clinical evaluation and observation.

Results

At cutoff 7, the Alvarado score showed a sensitivity of 85.5%, specificity of 70%, PPV of 96.5%, NPV of 33.3%, and diagnostic accuracy of 84.11% while the pediatric appendicitis score showed a sensitivity of 93.8%, specificity of 70%, PPV of 96.8%, NPV of 53.8, and diagnostic accuracy of 91.59%.

Conclusion

The pediatric appendicitis score (PAS) is superior in diagnosing acute appendicitis in the pediatric population than the Alvarado score as indicated by the values of diagnostic accuracy. So it can be a good diagnostic tool for pediatric patients presenting with clinical symptoms and signs of appendicitis.
Computer-Assisted Reporting and Decision Support in Standardized Radiology Reporting for Cancer Imaging
Authors: Bizzo Bernardo C. , Almeida Renata R. , Alkasab Tarik K.
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

Recent advances in structured reporting are providing an opportunity to enhance cancer imaging assessment to drive value-based care and improve patient safety.

METHODS

The computer-assisted reporting and decision support (CAR/DS) framework has been developed to enable systematic ingestion of guidelines as clinical decision structured reporting tools embedded within the radiologist's workflow.

RESULTS

CAR/DS tools can reduce the radiology reporting variability and increase compliance with clinical guidelines. The lung cancer use-case is used to describe various scenarios of a cancer imaging structured reporting pathway, including incidental findings, screening, staging, and restaging or continued care. Various aspects of these tools are also described using cancer-related examples for different imaging modalities and applications such as calculators. Such systems can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to assist with the generation of structured reports and there are opportunities for new AI applications to be created using the structured data associated with CAR/DS tools.

CONCLUSION

These AI-enabled systems are starting to allow information from multiple sources to be integrated and inserted into structured reports to drive improvements in clinical decision support and patient care.
A Facile Synthesis of Highly Porous Silica Aerogel Hybrid Materials for BTX Adsorption
Authors: Azhagapillai Prabhu , Al Shoaibi Ahmed , Srinivasakannan C
Published: April 2021

Benzene, toluene, and m-xylenes are among the pollutants in the environment that may harm human health. These fugitive volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from refineries and petrochemical industries are perennial, although at low concentrations in ppm levels. On similar grounds, the separation of benzene, toluene, and m-xylene compounds (BTX) from the feed gas of the sulfur recovery unit in natural gas processing industries is critical, as it is known to severely poison the catalyst in the Claus process. In this connection, a new hybrid material was synthesized using a precursor (metal-organic framework (MOF)) and silica aerogels (SA). The precursor (ZIF-8) proportion was varied to understand its effect on the structural and adsorption characteristics. Various advanced analytical characterizations were performed to understand the physicochemical characteristics of the synthesized material. Additionally, the synthesized materials were subjected to gas-phase adsorption of BTX to generate the adsorption isotherm at 25 °C. The hybrid material SA-ZIF-8 (20%) having a ZIF-8 proportion of 20% were found to have better adsorption capacity than the virgin ZIF-8 and silica aerogel adsorbents. The maximum adsorption capacity near the 90% saturation vapor pressure corresponds to 337 mg/g, 227 mg/g, and 263 mg/g at 25 °C for BTX, respectively.
Formation of Closed Pores in Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles by Hydrothermal Treatment
Authors: Yamamoto Eisuke , Cheng Lulu , Watanabe Tenkai , Mori Seiya , Shimojima Atsushi , Wada Hiroaki , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: April 2021

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with closed pores have significant potential for applications such as low-dielectric-constant materials and bio-imaging owing to their controlled accessibility. In this study, we successfully prepared MSNs with closed pores by a simple hydrothermal treatment in ethanol. The mesostructure changed from open to closed mesopores through hydrothermal treatment. This simple method enabled the preparation of closed pores with encapsulated guest species.
Σύνθεση, χαρακτηρισμός της δομής και μελέτη της βιολογικής δράσης συμπλόκων ενώσεων του δισθενούς μαγγανίου και του τρισθενούς σιδήρου με μη-στεροειδή αντιφλεγμονώδη φάρμακα
Authors: Δίμηζα Φιλίτσα
Published: April 2021

Στα πλαίσια της παρούσας διατριβής πραγματοποιήθηκε η σύνθεση, ο χαρακτηρισμός και η μελέτη της βιολογικής συμπεριφοράς 24 νέων ενώσεων συναρμογής Mn(II) και Fe(III) με ligands ΜΣΑΦ της κατηγορίας των φαινυλαλκανοϊκών οξέων, των ανθραλινικών οξέων και των παραγώγων του σαλικυλικού οξέος, παρουσία ή απουσία ligands δοτών ατόμων Ν. Παρασκευάστηκαν και χαρακτηρίστηκαν δομικά 13 μονοπυρηνικές, μία διπυρηνική, και δύο τριπυρηνικές σύμπλοκες ενώσεις του Mn(II), καθώς και μία διπυρηνική, τρεις ουδέτερες και δύο κατιονικές τριπυρηνικές, και δύο τετραπυρηνικές σύμπλοκες ενώσεις του Fe(III). Ο χαρακτηρισμός των ενώσεων έγινε με μετρήσεις μοριακής αγωγιμότητας, με φασματοσκοπία ΙR, με φασματοσκοπία UV-vis, με κρυσταλλογραφία ακτίνων–Χ και για τα σύμπλοκα του τρισθενούς σιδήρου με φασματοσκοπία Mössbauer. Η αλληλεπίδραση των ΜΣΑΦ και των συμπλόκων ενώσεων με το CT DNA μελετήθηκε με φασματοσκοπία UV–vis, με μετρήσεις ιξώδους, με κυκλική βολταμμετρία (για ορισμένα σύμπλοκα του μαγγανίου), και φασματοσκοπία εκπομπής φθορισμού (μελέτη της ανταγωνιστικής δράσης με το EB). Από τις μελέτες συμπεραίνεται ότι ο πιο πιθανός τρόπος αλληλεπίδρασης των συμπλόκων με το CT DNA είναι η παρεμβολή ενώ στα δύο κατιονικά σύμπλοκα του σιδήρου εμφανίζεται και ηλεκτροστατική αλληλεπίδραση με το CT DNA, πέραν της παρεμβολής. Επίσης με φασματοσκοπία φθορισμού ερευνήθηκε η ικανότητα των ΜΣΑΦ και των συμπλόκων ενώσεων να αλληλεπιδρούν με τις αλβουμίνες BSA και HSA. Όλες οι ενώσεις έχουν την ικανότητα να αλληλεπιδρούν με τις BSA και HSA, με μεγαλύτερη συγγένεια προς τη BSA, με τέτοιο τρόπο ώστε να συνδέονται αντιστρεπτά, να μπορούν να μεταφερθούν και πιθανότατα να απελευθερωθούν από την αλβουμίνη όταν φτάσουν στα κύτταρα-στόχους. Τέλος, αξιολογήθηκε η αντιοξειδωτική ικανότητα των ΜΣΑΦ και των ενώσεών τους μέσω της δέσμευσης τριών ειδών ελευθέρων ριζών (DPPH, ABTS, OH). Βρέθηκε ότι τα σύμπλοκα εμφανίζουν μία εκλεκτικότητα με καλύτερη δράση ως προς τη δέσμευση των ριζών ABTS, έπειτα ως προς τη δέσμευση των ριζών υδροξυλίου και μικρή ως προς τη δέσμευση ριζών DPPH.
STAVOVI MLADIH PREMA ELEKTRONSKOM GLASANJU
Authors: Pilipović Dragolјub , Gavrić Želјko
Published: April 2021

Every state structure can be seen as a service to citizens, including e-government. That is why one such service will be described - the electronic voting service. Electronic voting (abbreviated e-voting) is one of the forms of remote voting that is primarily used in political elections. E-voting is reflected in the use of at least one electronic device for the service. Each e-voting system has its requirements, characteristics, and features, but the perception of its users - voters is also important. This paper examines the effect of socio-demographic factors (such as gender, age, faculty, and field to which the faculty belongs) on the readiness of young people to use e-voting in elections. Sociological research to date has shown that young people are among the leading strata of society in terms of their willingness to take advantage of the new ICTs, including e-voting. In that sense, we will try to determine the attitudes of young people towards e-voting on the example of young people, students at all faculties and departments of one university, and whether is there a regularity or connection between some socio-demographic factors and attitudes towards e-voting.
El Ecuador después de Correa (d.C.). Una lectura mesiánica del correísmo
Authors: De Domingo Soler Carlos
Published: April 2021

El presente texto plantea la lectura del gobierno de Rafael Correa a partir del concepto de “mesianismo” de Giorgio Agamben, aludiendo a su significación en el contexto de la democracia ecuatoriana y la configuración política de la última década. Partiendo de la teología política y la representación cristológica de la teología de la liberación, estableceremos sucintamente la relación entre ciertos hechos transcurridos durante el correísmo y determinados episodios bíblicos. Para ello, nos serviremos de lo que aquí denomino “juego de identificaciones”, permitiéndonos enlazar la narrativa política del correísmo con las narrativas mesiánica y cristiana. Como conclusión, sostengo que el gobierno de Rafael Correa asimiló e incorporó sistemáticamente a su discurso los cánones históricos y axiológicos de la narrativa mesiánica
Islamismo, yihadismo y extrema izquierda en América Latina. ¿Hacia una teoría y una práctica islamizadas de la revolución?
Authors: Rivas Nieto Pedro , Rey García Pablo
Published: April 2021

Este artículo estudia la hipotética penetración del islamismo –vertiente degradada del Islam– en algunos sectores de la extrema izquierda en Latinoamérica y reflexiona sobre su habilidad para desarrollar tanto una teoría como una práctica islamizadas de la revolución. El objetivo de esto es indagar en un aspecto inusual de la seguridad, el factor ideológico, habitualmente soslayado por preferirse los elementos estratégicos y tácticos. Para ello primero se investigan someramente algunos cambios del terrorismo ligados al islamismo en Latinoamérica. Después se analiza la doctrina mediante la que el islamismo puede conectar con la extrema izquierda mediante los conceptos de revolución, guerra revolucionaria, guerra asimétrica y yihad. Finalmente están las conclusiones del artículo.
Nietzsche y el posthumanismo
Authors: Lemm Vanessa
Published: April 2021

En Más allá del bien y del mal Nietzsche concibe la naturalización del ser humano, su retraducción en la naturaleza, como una experiencia liberadora en la que éste redescubre la naturaleza como una fuerza creativa y transformadora incorporada en él. Para Nietzsche, la cuestión del futuro del ser humano depende de su capacidad de re-incorporar la naturaleza. La naturaleza humana no es para Nietzsche algo dado del cuerpo (humano), algo que pertenece al ser humano per se. En cambio, la naturaleza en el ser humano viene con la tarea de retraducir, reinstalar, re-incorporar la naturaleza. Por ello, el pensamiento de Nietzsche sobre la naturaleza está orientado hacia el futuro, abriendo el horizonte de la transformación humana. En este artículo sostengo que el pensamiento de Nietzsche sobre el homo natura es claramente posthumano y como tal sienta las bases para los debates contemporáneos sobre el posthumanismo.
“Se ha de armar siempre a los fuertes contra los débiles”. La crítica de Nietzsche a la democracia, La crítica de Nietzsche a la democracia
Authors: Marton Scarlett
Published: April 2021

Se trata de discutir las críticas que este pensador francamente antidemocrático hace a la democracia, cuestionando y evaluando los argumentos que emplea para ello. Primero se pretende aclarar sus reflexiones sobre la modernidad y la decadencia, para comprender las razones que lo llevan a asociar el movimiento democrático con las llamadas “ideas modernas”. Después, centrando el análisis en la idea de igualdad, se examinan las consecuencias de su posición a favor del aristocratismo.
Política del poder y política de la grandeza: el antiigualitarismo de Nietzsche
Authors: Sánchez Meca Diego
Published: April 2021

Lo propio de la noción nietzscheana de voluntad de poder es su definición como actividad de contraposición continua de fuerzas por las que lo viviente se organiza en relaciones de dominio y obediencia tratando, no sólo de conservarse sino, sobre todo, de autosuperarse. Esta es la política misma de la vida que rige los procesos de individuación, la conquista de la libertad y la creatividad cultural que nos hace avanzar y elevarnos hasta formas superiores de existencia. En este artículo se trata de esclarecer en qué sentido la originalidad de la Grosse Politik radica en el intento de desarrollar la manera en la que la psicofisiología pulsional permite reformular la transvaloración y elevación del tipo humano y la cultura. Se analiza la inspiración en Platón de este proyecto, el contrapunto que representan para él los planteamientos ético-políticos de Kant y Hegel, y las aporías de su implantación práctica frente a los sistemas democráticos con las que Nietzsche se debate.
Democracia y Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos: participación, oposición y acceso a la justicia
Authors: Sahuí Alejandro
Published: April 2021

El texto propone una guía para comprender la idea de democracia subyacente en el Sistema Interamericano de Derechos Humanos. Con base en la noción de poliarquía de Robert Dahl se destacan los principios de participación y oposición. Ambos revelan los ascendientes igualitario y liberal de la democracia que deben orientar la actividad interpretativa de la Corte IDH, más allá de que se traten específicamente casos de derechos políticos. El propósito es visibilizar el ineludible rol público-político de los tribunales. Ello implica revisar la calidad de sus razones, la corrección de sus procedimientos de justificación, y la naturaleza de su autoridad. Por el carácter de la función judicial, se analiza la idea de democracia en conjunción con el derecho humano de acceso a la justicia.
Deliberación, deferencia y Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos. El caso Gelman vs Uruguay
Authors: Sauca Cano José María
Published: April 2021

El caso Gelman supuso la condena de Uruguay por violación de los derechos al reconocimiento de la personalidad jurídica, a la vida, a la integridad personal y a la libertad personal; a la familia, al nombre, a los derechos de los niños y niñas y a la nacionalidad, a la protección de la familia; a las garantías judiciales y a la protección judicial y por haber incumplido la obligación de adecuar su derecho interno a la Convención Americana sobre Derechos Humanos. Amparado en la legitimidad democrática de los referéndums que convalidaban la Ley de Caducidad, Uruguay ha prorrogado la impunidad de los crímenes de la dictadura no ejecutando la sentencia. El autor critica la validez de estos argumentos exculpatorios de este incumplimiento sobre la base de diversas razones.