bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated analysis of differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs and mRNAs associated with high-fat diet-induced hepatic insulin resistance in mice
Authors: Zhou Zengyuan , Zhao Xue , Chen Liang , Li Yuzheng , Chen Zhao , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhou Zihao , Chu Xia
Published: June 2020

Background

Hepatic insulin resistance (IR) is an early pathological characteristic of many metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as mediators of IR and related diseases. However, the roles of lncRNAs in hepatic IR remain largely unknown.

Method

High-throughput sequencing was performed on ten liver tissue samples from five normal diet (ND)-fed mice and five high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hepatic IR mice, respectively. lncRNAs and mRNAs that were differentially expressed (DE) between the two groups were identified by bioinformatic analyses. Seven DE lncRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR). The potential functions of the DE lncRNAs were predicted by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses of target genes. In addition, integrated analysis was performed for the DE lncRNAs and mRNAs to predict their interaction relationships.

Results

A total of 232 DE lncRNAs were identified in the HFD-induced hepatic IR mice compared with the ND-fed mice. These DE lncRNAs included 108 upregulated and 124 downregulated lncRNAs, and 7 of the DE lncRNAs were validated by q-PCR. In addition, 291 DE mRNAs including 166 upregulated and 125 downregulated mRNAs were identified in the HFD group. Furthermore, target genes of the DE lncRNAs were predicted, and functional enrichment results showed that the enriched genes were involved in IR- and glycolipid metabolism-related processes. Additionally, the coexpression network was also constructed to further reflect the potential functions of the DE lncRNAs.

Conclusion

The study describes the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs and the functional networks involved in HFD-induced hepatic IR. These findings may provide a new perspective for the study of lncRNAs in hepatic IR- and glycolipid metabolism-related diseases.
Efficacy of omalizumab in children, adolescents, and adults with severe allergic asthma: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and call for new trials using current guidelines for assessment of severe asthma
Authors: Henriksen Daniel P. , Bodtger Uffe , Sidenius Kirsten , Maltbaek Niels , Pedersen Lars , Madsen Hanne , Andersson Ehm A. , Norgaard Ole , Madsen Louise K. , Chawes Bo L.
Published: June 2020

Background

Omalizumab is approved for treating severe allergic asthma from age 6, but the definition of severe asthma including a systematic assessment to rule out difficult-to-treat asthma has changed since the drug was approved in 2003.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of two critical (exacerbation rate, oral corticosteroid (OCS) treatment) and eight important clinical outcomes in children, adolescents and adults, and specifically searched papers for systematic assessment of severe asthma.

Results

Adults: seven studies (n = 2159) ascertaining exacerbation rate showing a 37% (95% CI 21–50) reduction in favor of omalizumab, larger than the pre-specified minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 25%. Only one open-label study (n = 82) was identified assessing the percentage of patients experiencing reduction of OCS-maintenance treatment showing a significantly greater decrease in the omalizumab group (− 45% vs. + 18.3%, p = 0.002). Children and adolescents: four studies (n = 1551) reported data on exacerbations (no meta-analysis conducted), showed overall improvements in exacerbation rate and some passed MCID. No OCS studies were identified. No included studies provided systematic assessment of severe asthma according to current guidelines.

Conclusions

Omalizumab provides clinically relevant improvements in exacerbation rate among children, adolescents, and adults and in OCS-reduction among adults. New studies incorporating a guideline-approached definition of severe asthma are warranted.
Serum BPI as a novel biomarker in asthma
Authors: Xingyuan Chen , Chen Qiu
Published: June 2020

Background

Neutrophils, eosinophils and inflammatory cells contribute to asthmatic inflammation. The anti-bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI), produced by neutrophils, peripheral blood monocytes or epithelial cells, can neutralize lipopolysaccharide activity and enhance phagocytosis regulation function. This study aimed to assess the clinical significance of BPI in asthmatic patients.

Methods

We recruited 18 controlled asthma, 39 uncontrolled asthma and 35 healthy controls individuals. Clinical characteristics (age, gender, allergy history, body mass index (BMI) and smoking history), clinical indicators [whole blood count, forced expiratory volume in one second as percentage of predicted volume (FEV1% predicted), IgE level, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and fractional expiratory nitric oxide (FeNO)] and serum BPI levels were measured to compare among each group. We then evaluated the correlation between BPI, clinical characteristics and clinical indicators. Finally, linear regression analysis was performed to exclude the influence of other factors and to find the independent influencing factors of BPI.

Results

Our results showed that the serum BPI levels increased by twofold in the controlled asthma group (12.83 ± 6.04 ng/mL) and threefold in the uncontrolled asthma group (18.10 ± 13.48 ng/mL), compared to the healthy control group (6.00 ± 2.58 ng/mL) (p < 0.001). We further found that serum BPI levels were positively correlated with the hs-CRP (p = 0.002). There was no significant association among BPI, age, gender, BMI, allergy, blood eosinophils, blood neutrophils, IgE, FeNO or FEV1% predicted.

Conclusion

BPI levels were increased in asthma and positively correlated with hs-CRP. BPI as a potential asthma biomarker that still needs further research.
Evidence against the “normalization” prediction of the early brain overgrowth hypothesis of autism
Authors: Yankowitz Lisa D. , Herrington John D. , Yerys Benjamin E. , Pereira Joseph A. , Pandey Juhi , Schultz Robert T.
Published: June 2020

Background

The frequently cited Early Overgrowth Hypothesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) postulates that there is overgrowth of the brain in the first 2 years of life, which is followed by a period of arrested growth leading to normalized brain volume in late childhood and beyond. While there is consistent evidence for early brain overgrowth, there is mixed evidence for normalization of brain volume by middle childhood. The outcome of this debate is important to understanding the etiology and neurodevelopmental trajectories of ASD.

Methods

Brain volume was examined in two very large single-site samples of children, adolescents, and adults. The primary sample comprised 456 6–25-year-olds (ASD n = 240, typically developing controls (TDC) n = 216), including a large number of females (n = 102) and spanning a wide IQ range (47–158). The replication sample included 175 males. High-resolution T1-weighted anatomical MRI images were examined for group differences in total brain, cerebellar, ventricular, gray, and white matter volumes.

Results

The ASD group had significantly larger total brain, cerebellar, gray matter, white matter, and lateral ventricular volumes in both samples, indicating that brain volume remains enlarged through young adulthood, rather than normalizing. There were no significant age or sex interactions with diagnosis in these measures. However, a significant diagnosis-by-IQ interaction was detected in the larger sample, such that increased brain volume was related to higher IQ in the TDCs, but not in the ASD group. Regions-of-significance analysis indicated that total brain volume was larger in ASD than TDC for individuals with IQ less than 115, providing a potential explanation for prior inconsistent brain size results. No relationships were found between brain volume and measures of autism symptom severity within the ASD group.

Limitations

Our cross-sectional sample may not reflect individual changes over time in brain volume and cannot quantify potential changes in volume prior to age 6.

Conclusions

These findings challenge the “normalization” prediction of the brain overgrowth hypothesis by demonstrating that brain enlargement persists across childhood into early adulthood. The findings raise questions about the clinical implications of brain enlargement, since we find that it neither confers cognitive benefits nor predicts increased symptom severity in ASD.
Self-interference cancelation in the presence of non-linear power amplifier and receiver IQ imbalance
Authors: Tapio Visa , Sonkki Marko , Juntti Markku
Published: June 2020

In the in-band full-duplex(FD) systems, the self-interference (SI) power can be more than 100 dB higher than the power of the received data signal. In order to enable the FD transmission, several SI cancelation stages are needed in a FD transceiver. By combining the cancelation at the radio frequency (RF) with a specially designed antenna and cancelation circuitry and SI cancelation at the digital baseband, the required level of SI cancelation can be achieved even with a non-linear power amplifier. In this paper, a FD transceiver architecture is modeled with simulation tools that allow to use realistic antenna and analog transceiver models and at the same time enable algorithm studies. The analog SI cancelation at the RF is controlled by the baseband digital processing unit, and the tuning of the RF canceler is performed with an automatic gain control enhanced iterative algorithm. The combined cancelation performance of the antenna and RF canceler varies between 62 and 82 dB depending on the studied cases. The digital baseband SI cancelation is based on the Hammerstein model in order to take the power amplifier non-linearity into account. The coefficients of the Hammerstein model are estimated with a self-orthogonalizing adaptive algorithm. When realistic phase noise and IQ imbalance values are taken into account, the SI after all the cancelation stages can decrease the signal-to-interference-and-noise-ratio (SINR) by few decibels (dB). In order to further enhance the SI cancelation, the Hammerstein based SI canceler is extended to cancel also the effect of the receiver IQ imbalance. With the extended baseband canceler, the cancelation performance is mainly limited by the phase noise
Therapy-induced lipid uptake and remodeling underpin ferroptosis hypersensitivity in prostate cancer
Authors: Tousignant Kaylyn D. , Rockstroh Anja , Poad Berwyck L. J. , Talebi Ali , Young Reuben S. E. , Taherian Fard Atefeh , Gupta Rajesh , Zang Tuo , Wang Chenwei , Lehman Melanie L. , Swinnen Johan V. , Blanksby Stephen J. , Nelson Colleen C. , Sadowski Martin C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Metabolic reprograming, non-mutational epigenetic changes, increased cell plasticity, and multidrug tolerance are early hallmarks of therapy resistance in cancer. In this temporary, therapy-tolerant state, cancer cells are highly sensitive to ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death that is caused by oxidative stress through excess levels of iron-dependent peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). However, mechanisms underpinning therapy-induced ferroptosis hypersensitivity remain to be elucidated.

Methods

We used quantitative single-cell imaging of fluorescent metabolic probes, transcriptomics, proteomics, and lipidomics to perform a longitudinal analysis of the adaptive response to androgen receptor-targeted therapies (androgen deprivation and enzalutamide) in prostate cancer (PCa).

Results

We discovered that cessation of cell proliferation and a robust reduction in bioenergetic processes were associated with multidrug tolerance and a strong accumulation of lipids. The gain in lipid biomass was fueled by enhanced lipid uptake through cargo non-selective (macropinocytosis, tunneling nanotubes) and cargo-selective mechanisms (lipid transporters), whereas de novo lipid synthesis was strongly reduced. Enzalutamide induced extensive lipid remodeling of all major phospholipid classes at the expense of storage lipids, leading to increased desaturation and acyl chain length of membrane lipids. The rise in membrane PUFA levels enhanced membrane fluidity and lipid peroxidation, causing hypersensitivity to glutathione peroxidase (GPX4) inhibition and ferroptosis. Combination treatments against AR and fatty acid desaturation, lipase activities, or growth medium supplementation with antioxidants or PUFAs altered GPX4 dependence.

Conclusions

Our work provides mechanistic insight into processes of lipid metabolism that underpin the acquisition of therapy-induced GPX4 dependence and ferroptosis hypersensitivity to standard of care therapies in PCa. It demonstrates novel strategies to suppress the therapy-tolerant state that may have potential to delay and combat resistance to androgen receptor-targeted therapies, a currently unmet clinical challenge of advanced PCa. Since enhanced GPX4 dependence is an adaptive phenotype shared by several types of cancer in response to different therapies, our work might have universal implications for our understanding of metabolic events that underpin resistance to cancer therapies.
A self-management support intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation: a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Jobst Stefan , Leppla Lynn , Köberich Stefan
Published: June 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide. Despite effective treatment, it is characterized by frequent recurrences. Optimal therapeutic management of AF requires active participation and self-management from patients. Two major components of self-management are self-monitoring and sign-and-symptom management. Pulse self-palpation (PSP) is a method of self-monitoring; however, not all AF patients are capable of successfully performing PSP. Due to a lack of interventions on this topic, a nurse-led intervention for patients with AF (PSPAF intervention) was developed to foster self-monitoring and to enhance self-management through PSP. The purpose of this pilot study was to test the acceptability, feasibility, and potential effects of this intervention on the capability of patients’ PSP and sign-and-symptom management. Moreover, we aimed at gathering data on the feasibility of applied research methods to aid in the design of future studies.

Methods

The pilot trial involved 20 adult patients with AF, randomized to an intervention or usual care group. At baseline and during a home visit 3–5 weeks later, we collected data using questionnaires, checklists, field notes, a mobile ECG device, and a diary. Acceptability and feasibility measures were validated through predefined cut-off points. Effect size estimates were expressed as relative risks (RR) and the number needed to treat (NNT).

Results

The PSPAF intervention seemed feasible, but only partly acceptable. There were limitations in terms of potential effectiveness, suitability, addressing participants’ willingness to implement its content in daily life, and adherence. Estimations of effect sizes suggest a large effect of the intervention on patients’ PSP capability (RR = 6.0; 95% CI = [0.83, 43.3]; NNT = 2.4), but almost no effect on sign-and-symptom management (RR = 1.5; 95% CI = [0.7, 3.1]; NNT = 4.0). The feasibility of applied research methods showed minor limitations on recruitment and participant burden.

Conclusions

Despite some limitations, the intervention seemed to be applicable and promising. Taking into account the suggestions and amendments we have made, we recommend conducting a full-scale trial to examine the efficacy of the PSPAF intervention.

Trial registration

This pilot study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register at September 4, 2017 (Main ID: DRKS00012808).
Lethal and sub-lethal effects of bio-and chemical insecticides on the tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Kandil Mohamed A. , Abdel-kerim Rania N. , Moustafa Moataz A. M.
Published: June 2020

The tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is a destructive pest affecting the tomato crop causing a loss of 60–100% of the tomato crop production. In the present study, the lethal and sub-lethal effects of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), spinosad, and emamectin benzoate as bio-insecticides comparing with 2 synthetic insecticides: chlorpyrifos and indoxacarb against T. absoluta under laboratory conditions were evaluated. Take in consideration, life tables and reproductive parameters of treated larvae with LC30 for each pesticide (bio- and chemical insecticides) by using leaf dipping technique were calculated. The results showed that Lepinox formulation of Bt was the most effective one against the early 2nd instar larvae with 0.01 × 10−2 mg/l (ppm), followed by spinosad with 0.07 × 10−2 ppm comparing to indoxacarb and chlorpyrifos (0.01 and 11.44 μg/ml, respectively). Sub-lethal effect of the Bt formulations significantly increased pupal mortality by 29.77, 33.30, and 26.94% for Lepinox, Dipel 2×, and Protecto, respectively. In addition to their efficiency, Bt formulations and emamectin benzoate increased larval developmental period and reduced adult emergency percentage to 70.28, 66.70, 73.06, and 75.55% for Lepinox, Dipel 2×, Protecto, and emamectin benzoate, respectively. All bio-insecticides including Bt, spinosad, and emamectin benzoate caused abnormalities in different life stages. The results suggest these bio-insecticides are promising alternatives to synthetic insecticides for T. absoluta management.
Measures of variability and precision in statistics: appreciating, untangling and applying concepts
Authors: Ciarleglio Adam
Published: June 2020

This reflection presents a discussion of some common measures of variability and how they are appropriately used in descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. We argue that confidence intervals (CIs), which incorporate these measures, serve as tools to assess both clinical and statistical significance.
Elderly patients with no previous psychiatric history: suicidality and other factors relating to psychiatric acute admissions
Authors: Lund-Heimark Hallvard , Kjelby Eirik , Mehlum Lars , Gjestad Rolf , Selbæk Geir , Kroken Rune Andreas , Johnsen Erik , Oedegaard Ketil Joachim , Mellesdal Liv S.
Published: June 2020

Background

The common recommendation that adults with onset of mental illness after the age of 65 should receive specialised psychogeriatric treatment is based on limited evidence.

Aims

To compare factors related to psychiatric acute admission in older adults who have no previous psychiatric history (NPH) with that of those who have a previous psychiatric history (PPH).

Method

Cross-sectional cohort study of 918 patients aged ≥65 years consecutively admitted to a general adult psychiatric acute unit from 2005 to 2014.

Results

Patients in the NPH group (n = 526) were significantly older than those in the PPH group (n = 391) (77.6 v. 70.9 years P < 0.001), more likely to be men, married or widowed and admitted involuntarily. Diagnostic prevalence in the NPH and PPH groups were 49.0% v. 8.4% (P < 0.001) for organic mental disorders, 14.6% v. 30.4% (P < 0.001) for psychotic disorders, 30.2% v. 55.5% (P < 0.001) for affective disorders and 20.7% v. 13.3% (P = 0.003) for somatic disorders. The NPH group scored significantly higher on the Health of the Nation Outcome Scale (HoNOS) items agitated behaviour; cognitive problems; physical illness or disability and problems with activities of daily living, whereas those in the PPH group scored significantly higher on depressed mood. Although the PPH group were more likely to report suicidal ideation, those in the NPH group were more likely to have made a suicide attempt before the admission.

Conclusions

Among psychiatric patients >65 years, the subgroup with NPH were characterised by more physical frailty, somatic comorbidity and functional and cognitive impairment as well as higher rates of preadmission suicide attempts. Admitting facilities should be appropriately suited to manage their needs.
Mental well-being and recovery in serious mental illness: associations between mental well-being and functional status in the Health Survey for England 2014
Authors: Chan Sarah , Weich Scott
Published: June 2020

Background

Mental illness and mental well-being are independent but correlated dimensions of mental health. Both are associated with social functioning (in opposite directions), but it is not known whether they modify the effects of one another. New treatment targets might emerge if improving mental well-being in people with serious mental illness improved functional outcomes independent of clinical status.

Aims

To describe associations between mental well-being and functioning in people classified according to mental illness status.

Method

Cross-sectional data from 5485 respondents to the Health Survey for England 2014 were analysed. Mental illness status (including whether diagnosed by a professional) was by self-report and grouped into four categories, including ‘diagnosis of serious mental illness’. Mental well-being was measured using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, and functioning by items from the EQ-5D. Mental distress was assessed using General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) items. Associations were examined using moderated regression models with group membership as an interaction term.

Results

Mental well-being score was associated with (higher) functioning score (P < 0.05). This association varied between mental illness groups, even after adjusting for age, gender, ethnicity, physical health and symptoms of mental distress (F(3) = 14.60, P < 0.001). The gradient of this association was greatest for those with diagnosed serious mental illness.

Conclusions

Mental well-being was associated with higher functional status in people with mental illness, independent of the symptoms of mental distress and other confounders. The association was strongest in the diagnosed serious mental illness group, suggesting that mental well-being may be important in recovery from mental illness.
Exposure to Low Doses of Dechlorane Plus Promotes Adipose Tissue Dysfunction and Glucose Intolerance in Male Mice
Authors: Peshdary Vian , Styles George , Rigden Marc , Caldwell Don , Kawata Alice , Sorisky Alexander , Atlas Ella
Published: June 2020

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to increase worldwide. It is well established that genetic susceptibility, obesity, overnutrition and a sedentary life style are risk factors for the development of T2D. However, more recently, studies have also proposed links between exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and altered glucose metabolism. Human exposure to environmental pollutants that are suspected to have endocrine disruptor activity is ubiquitous. One such chemical is Dechlorane Plus (DP), a flame retardant, that is now detected in humans and the environment. Here we show that exposure of mice to low, environmentally relevant doses of DP promoted glucose intolerance in mice fed a high-fat diet independent of weight gain. Furthermore, DP had pronounced effects on the adipose tissue, where it induced the development of hypertrophied white adipose tissue (WAT), and increased serum levels of resistin, leptin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. In addition, DP exposure induced “whitening” of brown adipose tissue (BAT), and reduced BAT uncoupling protein 1 expression. Importantly, some of these effects occurred even when the mice were fed a regular, low-fat, diet. Finally, WAT adipogenic markers were reduced with DP treatment in the WAT. We also show that DP directly inhibited insulin signaling in murine adipocytes and human primary subcutaneous adipocytes in vitro. Taken together, our results show that the exposure to low and environmentally relevant levels of DP may contribute to the development of T2D.
Exercise and GLUT4
Authors: Flores-Opazo Marcelo , McGee Sean L. , Hargreaves Mark
Published: June 2020

The glucose transporter GLUT4 is critical for skeletal muscle glucose uptake in response to insulin and muscle contraction/exercise. Exercise increases GLUT4 translocation to the sarcolemma and t-tubule and, over the longer term, total GLUT4 protein content. Here, we review key aspects of GLUT4 biology in relation to exercise, with a focus on exercise-induced GLUT4 translocation, postexercise metabolism and muscle insulin sensitivity, and exercise effects on GLUT4 expression.
Agricultural entomology in the state of Acre: a historical overview and future challenges
Authors: Sutil Weidson Plauter , Santos Rodrigo Souza
Published: June 2020

In the state of Acre, Brazil, family-based agriculture is predominant and although it has less economic impact in relation to large-scale plantations, it is also subject to biological imbalances, such as the attack of pests, generating economic losses for producers. Phytosanitary knowledge in the state is still incipient and becomes an obstacle to production, often resulting in mistaken management decisions. In this context, this work aimed to present a history of research carried out in the field of Agricultural Entomology, especially in the areas of integrated management and biological control of pests of the most relevant crops grown in the Acre state. In this review, 55 scientific papers related to Agricultural Entomology were presented, 23 on new insect records and/or new insect associations with host plants, 16 on insect control using plant extracts from the Amazon region, 13 on integrated pest management and three on bioecology and population dynamics of pests in the state of Acre. Through this review, it is observed that research in the area  of Agricultural Entomology in the state of Acre is characterized by basic research (surveys, registration of new species, bioecological and dynamic population studies). However, there has been a notable advance in scientific studies aimed at integrated pest management in the state in the past ten years. Still, there is a need to concentrate efforts on research aimed at prospecting and using Amazonian biodiversity (fauna and flora), which subsidize applied programs for integrated pest management of the main crops grown in the Acre state.
Transanal irrigation systems for managing bowel dysfunction: a review
Authors: Bardsley Alison
Published: June 2020

Transanal irrigation (TAI) is used to treat bowel dysfunction, including faecal incontinence and constipation, where physical exercises, dietary changes and/or medication alone are insufficient. During TAI, water is instilled via the anal canal into the distal colon, and the water expels the faecal contents via wash out and/or stimulating colonic peristalsis. This can reduce the severity and frequency of bowel dysfunction, hospitalisation rate, management time and treatment costs and promotes dignity, independence and quality of life. Different TAI systems are available that instil a low or high volume of water, through a balloon catheter or a cone, using a manual or electric pump or a gravity feed. Balloon catheters are secure, convenient and comfortable, while cone systems may be considered less invasive but require patient or carer dexterity to be held in place. Low-volume systems are compact and convenient, but high-volume systems achieve better results for some conditions. Gravity-fed systems need to be suspended above the user, while electric pumps may be cumbersome. Bed systems are designed for patients who are bedbound or require hoisting. The optimal system should be selected based on assessment, informed by clinical need and patient preference. Users must be assessed by a specialist clinician for contraindications, comorbidities and capacity to consent. The clinician should then provide selected patients with ongoing structured training and support to ensure safe and effective use.
Overcoming the challenges of role transition for trainee advanced clinical practitioners
Authors: Murphy Kay , Mortimore Gerri
Published: June 2020

Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) are being recruited in England to improve care continuity and safety, meet complex needs and ease workforce pressures. These roles are open to experienced, registered health professionals from a variety of backgrounds. This significant career change typically involves a transitional training programme. This article explores the challenges presented by this transition and how they can be overcome. Attaining the postgraduate qualification can be daunting for those who have been outside academic education, especially the initial degree module. The generalist ACP role can be confused with that of clinical nurse specialist, and an ambiguous role identity can cause problems for management, expectations and morale. Trainee ACPs gain wide experience from ward rotations, although they can specialise in some areas. Thus, trainees experience de-skilling as they go from being an expert in one role to a novice in another, as well as potentially developing imposter syndrome. Trainees may be anxious about being expected to fulfil the competencies of a qualified ACP, and their trainee status should be evident in their uniform. Those entering advanced practice can face interpersonal hostility and institutional resistance. Any bullying should be addressed directly, and potential misconceptions should be clarified. There is no overarching national regulatory body for ACPs, and relevant guidelines can diverge. While a clinical supervision assesses a trainee's performance, a separate mentor should support their learning and develop their competence and confidence, especially in the first year. Mentorships should be defined and structured. Trainees can be supported by experienced qualified ACPs. Flexible individual induction plans, with information spaced throughout the year, can help overcome these challenges, and these should make the most of the trainee's achievements in their previous role.
Single-shot multispectral angle-resolved ellipsometry
Authors: Choi Garam , Woo Lee Seung , Yong Lee Sin , Jae Pahk Heui
Published: June 2020

We describe an instantaneous measurement scheme of multispectral angle-resolved ellipsometry with a color camera. A back focal plane image captured by the color camera enables us to simultaneously measure various polarization states along incidence angles and a multispectral domain. Modified parameters based on the principle of micro-ellipsometry are derived for an adequate form in a red, green and blue (RGB) domain by considering the wideband multispectral acquisition. The proposed method is validated by the measurement of uniformly deposited films and comparing our results with a commercial ellipsometer. The comparison shows that our proposed method enables real-time inspection with high precision.
Light-field-depth-estimation network based on epipolar geometry and image segmentation
Authors: Wang Xucheng , Tao Chenning , Wu Rengmao , Tao Xiao , Sun Peng , Li Yong , Zheng Zhenrong
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we propose a convolutional neural network based on epipolar geometry and image segmentation for light-field depth estimation. Epipolar geometry is utilized to estimate the initial disparity map. Multi-orientation epipolar images are selected as input data, and the convolutional blocks are adopted based on the disparity of different-direction epipolar images. Image segmentation is used to obtain the edge information of the central sub-aperture image. By concatenating the output of the two parts, an accurate depth map could be generated with fast speed. Our method achieves a high rank on most quality assessment metrics in the HCI 4D Light Field Benchmark and also shows effectiveness in estimating accurate depth on real-world light-field images.
Observer metamerism to display white point using different primary sets
Authors: Hu Yu , Wei Minchen , Luo Ming Ronnier
Published: June 2020

Displays with different primary sets were found to introduce perceived color mismatch between stimuli that are computationally metameric and to affect the variations of the perceived color difference of metameric stimuli among observers (i.e., observer metamerism). In this study, computational analyses and psychophysical experiments were carried out to investigate the possibilities of increasing the color gamut area of a commercially available liquid crystal display (LCD) system using 16 three-primary sets, so that the perceived color difference of the white point between the system and the reference display and observer metamerism can be minimized. It was found the primary set with the peak wavelengths of 450, 525, and 665 nm was able to increase the sRGB color gamut by 72.1% in the CIE 1931 chromaticity diagram, which was found to have a strong correlation to the color volume of wide color gamut displays, while introducing the minimal color mismatch to the white point of the reference display and observer metamerism. The small white point color mismatch could be due to the similar wavelengths of the blue and green primaries in comparison to the reference display. In addition, the experiment results suggested that the CIE 2006 2° Color Matching Functions (CMFs) had better performance in characterizing the color match of the white point than the CIE 1931 2°, 1964 10°, and 2006 10° CMFs, which could be due to the fact that the stimulus used in the experiment only had a field of view (FOV) around 3.8°.
Shift of the surface plasmon polariton interference pattern in symmetrical arc slit structures and its application to Rayleigh metallic particle trapping
Authors: Bai Chunyan , Chen Jian , Zhang Yuxing , Kanwal Saima , Zhang Dawei , Zhan Qiwen
Published: June 2020

In symmetric nano/micro metal slit structures, interference patterns are produced by counter-propagating surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) in the the center of structures, which can be employed to improve the resolution of microscopy and surface etching and to realize particle trapping. This paper focuses on the shift of the SPP interference patterns in the symmetric arc slit structures. The excitation models with one incident beam and two incident beams are established and analyzed respectively, and methods to shift the SPP interference patterns via adjusting the tilt angle and initial phase of the excitation beams are compared. The FDTD simulation results show that these methods can precisely shift the SPP interference patterns in the symmetrical arc slits. Compared to the linear slits, the SPP waves arising from arc slits are more strongly focused, resulting in a stronger gradient force. The characteristics of stronger focus and dynamic shifting of the focal spot give the symmetric arc slit structure unique advantages in the capture and transfer of the Rayleigh metallic particle.
Multi-layer Born multiple-scattering model for 3D phase microscopy: publisher’s note
Authors: Chen Michael , Ren David , Liu Hsiou-Yuan , Chowdhury Shwetadwip , Waller Laura
Published: June 2020

This publisher’s note reports typographical corrections to
Optica
7, 394 (2020)OPTIC82334-253610.1364/OPTICA.383030.
Atividades culturais 2015-2016
Authors: Da Universidade Coimbra Biblioteca Geral
Published: June 2020

https://doi.org/10.14195/1647-8436_46_47_12
A Casa da Livraria da Universidade de Coimbra ao tempo de D. João V
Authors: Ferrão Pedro Miguel
Published: June 2020

A biblioteca universitária conimbricense seria transferida para um novo edifício, construído de raiz entre 1717 e 1728, por iniciativa do rei D. João V. Este elegante projecto arquitectónico seria transfigurado no seu interior com uma das mais sumptuosas e eloquentes decorações barrocas em talha dourada, enriquecida pela representação de chinoiseries e ainda pelas pintura dos seus tectos em trompe l’oeil, a qual se tornaria, segundo palavras do erudito conde Raczinski, la bibliothèque la plus richement ornée que j’aie jamais visitée.Com efeito, na Casa da Livraria reside, de forma indelével, o espírito da esclarecida acção mecenática do Magnânimo – consagrada mais tarde na nomenclatura adoptada que a passará a designar por Biblioteca Joanina –, lugar privilegiado em que Arte, Cultura e Ciência se conjugam em perfeita harmonia. Autêntico Palácio do Saber, o seu aparatoso cenário traduz uma autêntica cosmovisão do Homem e da Cultura Barroca do séc. XVIII.
O fundo António de Lima Fragoso na Biblioteca Geral da Universidade de Coimbra
Authors: Ramires Isabel João , Nogueira Sandra
Published: June 2020

António de Lima Fragoso, pianista e compositor, morreu aos 21 anos deixando uma expressiva obra musical que, apesar de naturalmente incompleta, é considerada cultural e historicamente relevante e de elevado valor artístico musical. Com o apontamento de alguns dados crono-biográficos de António Fragoso, apresenta-se uma descrição do Fundo doado à BGUC em 2014 pela família, que compreende o espólio musical e literário do compositor, incluindo correspondência, já devidamente organizado e incorporado no acervo musical e musicológico da BGUC.
A Biblioteca da Universidade: os principais desafios
Authors: Bernardes José Augusto Cardoso
Published: June 2020

Confrontada com a necessidade de melhorar o seu funcionamento, a Biblioteca da Universidade vem centrando as suas energias na reconversão tecnológica. Sem questionar a importância desse desafio contínuo, defende­‑se a necessidade de o conjugar com as missões primordiais e ainda com alguns desafios que vêm surgindo nos tempos mais recentes. Estes últimos desafios revelam­‑se particularmente exigentes e resultam das mudanças que se vêm operando na própria Universidade, envolvendo comportamentos e valores.
As Bibliotecas dos Conventos Extintos: para uma reconstituição da Livraria do Colégio de Santo António da Pedreira
Authors: Pereira Maria José Otão Silva , Bogalho Maria De Fátima
Published: June 2020

A extinção das ordens religiosas masculinas, operada por força do Decreto de 30 de maio de 1834, conduziu à desativação de um assinalável conjunto de colégios universitários que então povoavam a cidade de Coimbra. Uma das consequências mais sentidas dessa medida traduziu-se na dispersão das livrarias de todos os colégios. O facto de não terem subsistido registos inteiramente fi áveis do acervo bibliográfi co envolvido conduziu a suposições de perdas nunca totalmente comprovadas nos planos qualitativo e quantitativo. Tomando como base os inventários que então foram levados a cabo para a transferência para o Estado da livraria de um desses Colégios (o de Santo António da Pedreira), e do cotejo que foi possível efetuar com o núcleo que se encontra na Biblioteca Geral da Universidade, procura-se, neste estudo, levar por diante uma reconstituição aproximada de uma Livraria de Colégio, de média dimensão, tal como existia no primeiro terço do século XIX.
Mapas Nabais Conde: catalogação do Fundo
Authors: De Carvalho Maria De Fátima Moura , Mendes Teresa Margarida Simões
Published: June 2020

Em 2011, a Biblioteca Geral da Universidade de Coimbra adquiriu a Coleção de Mapas Nabais Conde. Após a digitalização dos 1191 mapas, iniciou-se o seu tratamento técnico, que decorreu entre janeiro de 2017 e janeiro de 2018. Terminado o tratamento técnico e analisando a coleção, pode-se observar que, no que concerne à época de publicação, o século XVIII é o mais representado, da mesma forma que o Reino Unido, a França e a Holanda são os países de onde procede a maioria dos editores/impressores. O mapa mais valioso é um mapa de Portugal segundo Álvaro Seco, datado de 1560, e orientado a Ocidente. Grande parte dos mapas são representações de Portugal. Além dos mapas encontramos ainda cartas náuticas, assim como inúmeras imagens que representam vistas de cidades. Quanto ao tratamento catalográfico, foi usada a ISBD (edição consolidada); o Fundo foi classificado com a Classificação Decimal Universal e indexado com termos de indexação da base de dados Millennium da Universidade de Coimbra.
A construção dos novos estabelecimentos da Reforma Pombalina da Universidade de Coimbra, dirigida por Guilherme Elsden
Authors: Lobo Rui
Published: June 2020

Há cerca de três anos, iniciámos um processo de cotejo sistemático da documentação escrita relativa à Reforma Pombalina da Universidade de Coimbra (1772-1777), com os levantamentos, desenhos e projetos para os novos estabelecimentos, dirigidos e produzidos pelo Tenente-Coronel de origem britânica Guilherme Elsden. Nesse quadro, realizámos uma comunicação para o ciclo de conferências «A Universidade de Coimbra no caminho para a Contemporaneidade», da 19ª Semana Cultural da Universidade de Coimbra (dedicada ao tema «Quem somos?»), que teve lugar na Casa das Caldeiras, em Coimbra, a 27 de abril de 2017. Coordenámos, seguidamente, uma exposição de desenhos da Reforma Pombalina, no Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro (com a Dr.ª Virgínia Gomes, patente entre outubro de 2018 e fevereiro de 2019), onde pudemos organizar cronologicamente um conjunto alargado de peças gráfi cas (algumas pertencentes à Biblioteca Geral da Universidade de Coimbra), sequência que veio validar e reforçar a nossa primeira leitura dos factos. No presente artigo (que resulta, em grande medida, do texto da comunicação de 2017) retomamos o estabelecimento de uma base cronológica para a datação de alguns desenhos-chave que foram sendo realizados no curto espaço de pouco mais de um ano, entre finais de 1772 e inícios de 1774. A seriação desses desenhos mostra como a Reforma Pombalina recebeu um incremento no impacto urbano e na escala das suas arquiteturas durante esse tempo, em particular na definição de estabelecimentos como o Observatório Astronómico e o Laboratório Chimico. Esse incremento deveu- -se, em parte, ao desenvolvimento natural das propostas, mas também, e em grande medida, ao competente desempenho de Elsden e ao crescente entusiasmo do próprio Marquês de Pombal em relação aos novos projetos.
Discurso político, mídia e verdade
Authors: Dagatti Mariano
Published: June 2020

Nesta entrevista, o cientista social e especialista em análise de discurso político Mariano Dagatti aborda suas pesquisas sobre os estilos de comunicação política adotados pelos três últimos presidentes eleitos na Argentina, Néstor Kirchner (de 2003 à 2007), Cristina Fernández (de 2007 a 2015) e Mauricio Macri (de 2015 a 2019). Ele também reflete sobre a relação entre os meios e as instituições de comunicação novos e tradicionais, suas semelhanças e diferenças e sua relação com a política, com a verdade e com o ensino.
Early corset reclination of uncomplicated type А3 comminuted vertebral fractures in the thoracolumbar spine
Authors: Narkulov M. S. , Pardaev S. N. , Karshiboev A. Zh. , Meliboev S. T.
Published: June 2020

Objective. To analyze the results of staged preoperative correction of uncomplicated comminuted fractures in the thoracolumbar spine.

Material and Methods. Retrospective study included data from 51 patients (33 men and 18 women) 17–35 years old with type A3 spinal injuries without urgent indications for surgery. In preparation for a possible operation, patients received a corset treatment with reclination pneumopelot for 2–3 days.

Results. The results were evaluated based on clinical, radiological and CT data. The result after reclination corset treatment was considered good if a restoration of the vertebral height was achieved with its residual deficit of less than 10 % or local wedge shape not more  than 10°; satisfactory – with a residual decrease in vertebral body height from 10 to 30 % or in kyphotic deformity from 10 to 20°; and unsatisfactory – with a decrease in body height of more than 30 %, and in kyphotic deformity of more than 20°. With an average decrease in the height of the fractured vertebral body before surgery by 45 % and the local kyphosis magnitude of 27.0° ± 5.5°, the staged reclination provided complete correction of kyphosis in all cases and restoration of the height of the compressed vertebra to a residual deficit of less than 10 % in 78 % of cases. Neurological disorders were not noted.

Conclusion. In case of incomplete burst vertebral fractures not complicated by compression of the spinal cord, the method of early (in the first 7 days after the injury) corset treatment with staged fracture reclination by a pneumatic chamber can be effectively used to eliminate local kyphotic deformity and restore the height of fractured vertebra.
Spinal muscular atrophy: clinical features and treatment of spinal and limb deformities. Interstate Consensus Protocol
Authors: Ryabykh S. O. , Savin D. M. , Filatov E. Yu. , Medvedeva S. N. , Tretjakova A. N. , Popkov D. A. , Ryabykh T. V. , Shchurova E. N. , Saifutdinov M. S.
Published: June 2020

Objective. To substantiate the protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of deformities of the spine and limbs in patients with spinal muscular atrophy basing on an assessment of the level of evidence of published data.

Material and Methods. Data on foreign protocols and their adaptation for use in Russia and CIS countries were analyzed and summarized.  The main platform was the evidence-based systematization of studies reflecting modern approaches to the diagnosis and treatment (including surgery) of spinal and limb deformities in patients with spinal muscular atrophy. The formulated recommendations are based on literature data and the authors’ own experience. Literature was searched in online databases of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library information platforms. Preference was given to studies that could be classified as evidence level 2+ and higher according to the ASMOK system. References are given in the order of their mention in the text. Search depth was 5 years. Methods used to assess the quality and strength of evidence were expert consensus and significance assessment in accordance with the rating scheme. Methods used to analyze evidence were reviews of published meta-analyzes and systematic reviews with evidence tables.

Results. Various aspects of clinical examination, respiratory support and postural control, conservative and surgical treatment of spinal and limb deformities, preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative management, and anesthetic risk assessment in patients with spinal muscular atrophy are highlighted.

Conclusion. Secondary orthopedic pathology in patients with spinal muscular atrophy causes not only severe violation of the musculoskeletal system functions (support, movement, and verticalization), but also pathological changes in the vital functions of internal organs and systems (respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular). A thorough analysis of the patient’s condition (assessment of general somatic, neurological, and orthopedic statuses) based on the data of preoperative multidisciplinary examination allows assessing the risks of complications and developing individual program of surgical rehabilitation of the patient. Surgical correction of orthopedic pathology in spinal muscular atrophy improves the functional status of the patient, improves the quality of life and the level of self-care, and optimizes the function of external respiration.