bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of rainwater irrigation in agricultural crops in the context of water resources
Authors: Khamidov Mukhamadkhan , Muratov Ashurbek
Published: January 2021

The article provides information on systemic reforms in the organization of efficient use of water resources in Uzbekistan and published by the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage, as well as the interim results of scientific work carried out at TIIAME to address this issue. Extreme scarcity of water resources in Central Asia, the area of irrigated lands in the world, water resources used in agriculture, their economical use, economical irrigation technologies used to increase efficiency, the scope of sprinkler technology and the benefits of sprinkler irrigation. and technical specifications are given.
Stresses in subsidence bases of flutbet models under the moisturizing conditions
Authors: Xujakulov R
Published: January 2021

The practice of construction and operation of irrigation facilities on loess nodded soils shows that properly designed facilities, which are erected with high quality, can work for a long time without violating their operational suitability. At the same time, the specificity of the engineering and geological conditions of certain regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan, i.e. for strongly and inhomogeneous subsidence soils, it requires correcting some provisions of regulatory documents, to take into account the peculiarities of the stress-strain state of the “structure -subsidence base” system, which depends both on the structure of the hydraulic structure and the physical and mechanical properties of the soil changing during moistening. The specifics of the work of hydraulic structures consists that in the overwhelming majority of cases, their soil bases are moistened to the level of maximum water saturation. However, in the first time after the commissioning of the hydraulic structure, the soil mass is moistened unevenly, which affects the nature of the interaction between the foundation and the structure. The article presents the results of studying the patterns of stress variation in subsiding ground foundations in experimental studies of the stress-strain state of the loess bases of tubular crossings, which are widely distributed in irrigation systems of the south of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Mathematical modelling of pipelines, including equipment, levelling sharp changes in fluid pressure
Authors: Rekach Fedor , Shambina Svetlana , Belousov Yuri
Published: January 2021

The article deals with the issues related to the modelling of unsteady fluid flow in short and long pipelines, including various equipment: pumping stations (equipped with cen-trifugal or piston pumps), valves of different operating principle, pressure stabilizers, etc. Pres-sure stabilizers (especially in short pipelines) are able to protect the pipeline from sudden pres-sure surges. This is important not only in terms of the strength of the pipeline system, but also in short pipeline circuits for a uniform flow of liquid fuel supply. As a mathematical tool for numerical solution of differential equations of quasi-hyperbolic type, the method of character-istics is applied, which allows to consider the problems that develop over time. The program is written in C++ with graphical interpretation in Maple.
Determination of the mean velocity of mudflows (debris flows) taking into account their life cycle
Authors: Volgina Ludmila , Sergeev Stanislav
Published: January 2021

The paper is about calculation of the mean velocity of the mudflows. A mudflow is unsteady, non-uniform two-phase flows with high concentration of solid particles. Basic characteristics (depth, width, particle mean concentration and diameter) of a mudflow change in wide range (in time and in space), thus should be considered as a dynamic system. Existing empirical formulas for the mean velocity not for its. However, the principle of calculating the mean velocity must change for each phase of the lifecycle. Comparison of the calculated formulas and search for the closest ones to the measured also discussed. We give recommendations for calculating mean velocity of mudflows at any time during its moving.
Thermal conditions of systems for solar thermal regeneration of adsorbents
Authors: Khuzhakulov Saydullo , Pardaev Zokir , Khamraev Sardor
Published: January 2021

Energy supply of fruit and vegetable storages, especially in those remote from the centralized energy supply using solar energy, is relevant. The authors of the article propose a system of thermal regeneration of adsorbents based on the use of solar energy. The paper presents studies of heat transfer and thermal regime of the developed system of solar-thermal regeneration of the adsorbent (activated carbon) in non-stationary mode. The results of the study of heat transfer and thermal regime of systems for solar-thermal regeneration of adsorbents (activated carbon) under unsteady conditions are presented. A mathematical model of the temperature field of the adsorbent layer during solar heating using a solar air collector is proposed. The proposed mathematical model of the thermal regime of the solar adsorption installation allows you to qualitatively control the technological process of thermal regeneration of adsorbents and significantly reduce the cost of traditional energy resources.
Physical and electronic model of studying infrared radiator for drying wending insulation
Authors: Denmukhammadiev Aktam , Pardaev Abror , Begmatov Murodjon , Mustafoqulov Almardon , Valikhonova Himolakhon
Published: January 2021

During a long shutdown of the motors, the insulation quality of the windings of asynchronous motors deteriorates due to moisture. This requires additional costs for drying the insulation of electrical machines. The signs and possible causes of malfunctions of electrical machines, as well as methods of drying insulation, are studied: Drying by external heating, Drying by heating from an external source, Convective drying, Drying by induction loss, drying using light emitters. Drying using infrared radiation is the mildest method and helps to maintain the quality of the insulation. The movement of moisture in the layers of insulating windings occurs according to the laws of heat-mass exchange, that is, heat and moisture are simultaneously transferred. In this case, heat is transferred from more heated layers to less heated layers and at the same time promotes moisture transfer. A physical and electronic model was developed to study the effect of infrared radiation on the drying process of insulation of electrical machines. The main factors influencing the process under consideration are the power of the radiation sources and the supply voltage, that is, the temperature changes in the layers of the insulated windings were studied depending on the change in the power of the emitters and the supply voltage. The created model was investigated according to the main features corresponding to the real process (even the geometrical dimensions coincide). An indispensable condition for physical modeling is the strict geometric similarity of the model and nature, as well as the equality of the corresponding similarity criteria in them.
Energy absorption characteristics of honeycomb materials with negative poisson’s ratio*
Authors: Yan Xiaonan , Wang Rong , Chen Yongxiong , Cheng Yanhai , Liang Xiubing
Published: January 2021

Using a combination of finite element numerical simulation and experimental verification, the honeycomb structure with different parameters of negative Poisson’s ratio is compressed at a uniform speed. The influence of angle parameter θ, size parameter h and thickness parameter t on Poisson’s ratio and energy absorption of the whole structure is studied, and the main factors influencing Poisson’s ratio and energy absorption are discussed. The results show that the larger concave angle, the smaller size and the larger thickness of the honeycomb cell, the better energy absorption of the overall structure, and the angle is the parameter that has the greatest influence on the Poisson’s ratio and energy absorption. Meanwhile, it is demonstrated that the honeycomb hybrid auxetic material has better energy absorption.
Ternary mixed-oxide synergy effects of nano TiO2-FexOy-MOk (M = Mn, Ce, Co) on α-pinene catalytic oxidation process assisted by nonthermal plasma
Authors: Gao Yan , Peng Xiaoying , Zhang Zhanchao , Zhang Wenke , Li Hui , Chen Baoming , Li Shijie , Zhang Yixue , Chi Shidan
Published: January 2021

Biomass fuel from plant waste is an important substitute for fossil fuels. The odorous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is released during the drying process of biomass, which causes harm to the ecological environment and human health. The α-pinene is a typical odorous VOC generating during plant waste drying. Ternary nanocatalyst composed of TiO2, Fe
x
O
y
and MO
k
(M = Mn, Co, Ce) was manufactured by ultrasonic assisted hydrothermal process. The α-pinene catalytic oxidation property of ternary nanocatalysts were investigate in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor assisted by nonthermal plasma. The pore structure parameters of ternary nanocatalysts were observed qualitatively and analyzed quantitatively by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and N2 adsorption test, respectively. The phase composition and active element valence of these three kinds nanocatalysts were analyzed and compared by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The test data showed TiO2-Fe
x
O
y
-CoO
k
ternary nanocatalyst had more complete microporous and mesoporous pore structure, better element dispersion and stronger redox performance. Meanwhile, TiO2-Fe
x
O
y
-CoO
k
sample had the best performance with α-pinene catalytic conversion achieving 83.3% and CO2 selectivity higher than 90% at specific energy density (SED) of 620 J·l−1, which was almost half of the energy consumption of single non-thermal plasma catalytic reaction during the nonthermal plasma-catalyst (NTP-C) synergistic catalytic activity experiments. At the same time, the ternary nanocatalysts could obviously reduce the generation concentration of O3 and NO
x
in the process of α-pinene catalytic oxidation. The synergy effect between TiO2, Fe
x
O
y
and CoO
k
was better than that of TiO2, Fe
x
O
y
and CeO
k
or MnO
k
. It could be expected as an effective method to improve the redox performance of ternary nanocatalysts by optimizing the microstructure and elemental composition, which would also be a promising way to enhance odorous VOCs catalytic oxidation efficiency and reduce the energy consumption in the NTP-C synergistic catalytic system.
Mechanical and sound absorption performance of addition type liquid silicone rubber reinforced with halloysite nanotubes
Authors: Peng Longgui , Lei Lei , Liu Yongqiang , Du Lifei
Published: January 2021

Addition-molded room temperature vulcanized liquid silicone rubber (LSR) has become the promising candidate for environmentally friendly sound-absorbing materials, but the absorption efficiency should be further improved. In this study, the Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are chosen as the additive with the aim to improve the sound absorption performance of the LSR. Furthermore, the effect of the addition amount of HNTs on the mechanical properties and frequency dependent sound absorption efficiencies are investigated. Results indicate that the fabricated samples show effective high-frequency sound absorption and excellent mechanical properties. The mechanism of the improved sound absorption efficiency in high frequencies is discussed, which is believed to be attributed to the synergistic effect in the multiscale structure: 1) complex interfacial interactions at the surfaces of HNTs; 2) the friction between the air in the cavity and the inner wall of HNTs. Therefore, introducing the HNTs into the traditional silicone rubber would be an efficient way to improve the absorption efficiency for high frequency sound waves.
Associations Between Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Couples’ Sexual Function and Sexual Distress Trajectories Across the Transition to Parenthood
Authors: Dawson Samantha J , Leonhardt Nathan D , Impett Emily A , Rosen Natalie O
Published: January 2021

Background

The transition to parenthood is associated with changes to new parents’ mood and sexual health. Sexual dysfunction—problems with sexual function accompanied by sexual distress (i.e., worries and concerns about one’s sex life)—is linked to poorer overall health, yet few studies have examined how sexual dysfunction unfolds for couples during this transition. Postpartum depression is a risk factor for sexual dysfunction; however, the association between depressive symptoms and how postpartum sexual dysfunction evolves has not been examined.

Purpose

To establish trajectories of sexual function and sexual distress for mothers and partners and to examine if postpartum depressive symptoms were associated with these trajectories.

Methods

Data were collected from 203 first-time parent couples from midpregnancy until 12-months postpartum. Sexual function and sexual distress were assessed at six time points (two prenatal) and depressive symptoms were assessed at 3-months postpartum.

Results

Dyadic latent piece-wise growth curve models revealed significant declines in mothers’ and partners’ sexual function between pregnancy and 3-months postpartum and significant improvements from 3- to 12-months postpartum. Mothers’ sexual distress increased between pregnancy and 3-months postpartum and decreased thereafter, whereas partner’s sexual distress remained stable. Depressive symptoms were associated with poorer sexual function and higher sexual distress at 3-months postpartum for both partners but did not predict change over time.

Conclusions

Mothers and their partners experience changes to their sexual function during the transition to parenthood; however, mothers are at greater risk of sexual dysfunction. Depressive symptoms are a risk factor for poorer sexual health at 3-months postpartum for both parents.
The non-coding epitranscriptome in cancer
Authors: Miano Valentina , Codino Azzurra , Pandolfini Luca , Barbieri Isaia
Published: January 2021

Post-synthesis modification of biomolecules is an efficient way of regulating and optimizing their functions. The human epitranscriptome includes a variety of more than 100 modifications known to exist in all RNA subtypes. Modifications of non-coding RNAs are particularly interesting since they can directly affect their structure, stability, interaction and function. Indeed, non-coding RNAs such as tRNA and rRNA are the most modified RNA species in eukaryotic cells. In the last 20 years, new functions of non-coding RNAs have been discovered and their involvement in human disease, including cancer, became clear. In this review, we will present the evidence connecting modifications of different non-coding RNA subtypes and their role in cancer.
Norovirus and Other Viral Causes of Medically Attended Acute Gastroenteritis Across the Age Spectrum: Results from the Medically Attended Acute Gastroenteritis Study in the United States
Authors: Burke Rachel M , Mattison Claire P , Marsh Zachary , Shioda Kayoko , Donald Judy , Salas S Bianca , Naleway Allison L , Biggs Christianne , Schmidt Mark A , Hall Aron J
Published: January 2021

Background

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) causes a substantial burden in the United States, but its etiology frequently remains undetermined. Active surveillance within an integrated healthcare delivery system was used to estimate the prevalence and incidence of medically attended norovirus, rotavirus, sapovirus, and astrovirus.

Methods

Active surveillance was conducted among all enrolled members of Kaiser Permanente Northwest during July 2014–June 2016. An age-stratified, representative sample of AGE-associated medical encounters were recruited to provide a stool specimen to be tested for norovirus, rotavirus, sapovirus, and astrovirus. Medically attended AGE (MAAGE) encounters for a patient occurring within 30 days were grouped into 1 episode, and all-cause MAAGE incidence was calculated. Pathogen- and healthcare setting–specific incidence estimates were calculated using age-stratified bootstrapping.

Results

The overall incidence of MAAGE was 40.6 episodes per 1000 person-years (PY), with most episodes requiring no more than outpatient care. Norovirus was the most frequently detected pathogen, with an incidence of 5.5 medically attended episodes per 1000 PY. Incidence of norovirus MAAGE was highest among children aged < 5 years (20.4 episodes per 1000 PY), followed by adults aged ≥ 65 years (4.5 episodes per 1000 PY). Other study pathogens showed similar patterns by age, but lower overall incidence (sapovirus: 2.4 per 1000 PY; astrovirus: 1.3 per 1000 PY; rotavirus: 0.5 per 1000 PY).

Conclusions

Viral enteropathogens, particularly norovirus, are important contributors to MAAGE, especially among children < 5 years of age. The present findings underline the importance of judicious antibiotics use for pediatric AGE and suggest that an effective norovirus vaccine could substantially reduce MAAGE.
Reopening Schools and the Dynamics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infections in Israel: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Somekh Ido , Shohat Tamy , Boker Lital Keinan , Simões Eric A F , Somekh Eli
Published: January 2021

Background

Benefits of school reopening must be weighed against the morbidity and mortality risks and the impact of enhancing spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We investigated the effects of school reopening and easing of social-distancing restrictions on dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in Israel between March and July 2020.

Methods

We examined the nationwide age-wise weekly incidence, prevalence, SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction tests, their positivity, COVID-19 hospitalizations, and associated mortality. Temporal differences in these parameters following school reopening, school ending, and following easing of restrictions such as permission of large-scale gatherings were examined.

Results

Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections gradually increased following school reopening in all age groups, with a significantly higher increase in adults than children. Higher rate ratios (RRs) of sample positivity rates 21–27 days following school reopening relative to positivity rates prior to openings were found for the age groups 40–59 (RR, 4.72; 95% CI, 3.26–6.83) and 20–39 (RR, 3.37 [2.51–4.53]) years, but not for children aged 0–9 (RR, 1.46 [.85–2.51]) and 10–19 (RR, .93 [.65–1.34]) years. No increase was observed in COVID-19–associated hospitalizations and deaths following school reopening. In contrast, permission of large-scale gatherings was accompanied by increases in incidence and positivity rates of samples for all age groups, and increased hospitalizations and mortality.

Conclusions

This analysis does not support a major role of school reopening in the resurgence of COVID-19 in Israel. Easing restrictions on large-scale gatherings was the major influence on this resurgence.
Airborne Transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2): What We Know
Authors: Samet Jonathan M , Prather Kimberly , Benjamin Georges , Lakdawala Seema , Lowe John-Martin , Reingold Arthur , Volckens John , Marr Linsey C
Published: January 2021

We examine airborne transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) potential using a source-to-dose framework beginning with generation of virus-containing droplets and aerosols and ending with virus deposition in the respiratory tract of susceptible individuals. By addressing 4 critical questions, we identify both gaps in addressing 4 critical questions with answers having policy implications.
Exercise training in chronic kidney disease—effects, expectations and adherence
Authors: Clyne Naomi , Anding-Rost Kirsten
Published: January 2021

There is increasing evidence showing the health benefits of physical activity, such as better survival and possibly even a slower decline in kidney function, in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is convincing evidence that exercise training improves physical function measured as aerobic capacity, muscle endurance strength and balance at all ages and all stages of CKD. In fact, long-term adherence to well-designed and adequately monitored exercise training programmes is high. In general, patients express interest in exercise training and are motivated to improve their physical function and health. A growing number of nephrologists regard physical activity and exercise training as beneficial to patients with CKD. However, many feel that they do not have the knowledge to prescribe exercise training and suppose that patients are not interested. Patients state that support from healthcare professionals is crucial to motivate them to participate in exercise training programmes and overcome medical, physical and psychological barriers such as frailty, fatigue, anxiety and fear. Equally important is the provision of funding by healthcare providers to ensure adequate prescription and follow-up by trained exercise physiologists for this important non-pharmacological treatment.
Chimerism Assay Using Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Adjacent and in Linkage-Disequilibrium Enables Sensitive Disease Relapse Monitoring after Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation
Authors: Kim JinJu , Yun Woobin , Park Yu Jin , Seo Jieun , Lee Richard Dong Wook , Shin Saeam , Lee Hyun-Ji , Kim In Suk , Choi Jong Rak , Lee Seung-Tae
Published: January 2021

Background

Short tandem repeat (STR)-based chimerism analysis has been widely used for chimerism monitoring after hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT), but technical artifacts can be problematic. We designed a chimerism assay using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) adjacent and in linkage-disequilibrium (CASAL), which doubly checked for SNP pairs, and thus could reduce background errors and increase analytical sensitivity.

Methods

CASAL targeted 84 SNP pairs within 10 bp distance and in perfect linkage-disequilibrium. Using undiluted and serially diluted samples, baseline error rates, and linearity was calculated. Clinical performance of CASAL was evaluated in comparison with a conventional STR assay, using 191 posttransplant samples from 42 patients with HSCT.

Results

CASAL had ∼10 times lower baseline error rates compared to that of ordinary next-generation sequencing. Limit of detection and quantification of CASAL were estimated to be 0.09 and 0.39%, respectively, with a linear range of 0.1–100%. CASAL correlated well with STR assay (r2 = 0.99) and the higher sensitivity enabled detection of low-level recipient chimerism and earlier prediction of relapse.

Conclusions

CASAL is a simple, analytically sensitive and accurate assay that can be used in clinical samples after HSCT with a higher performance compared to that of traditional assays. It should also be useful in other forensic and archeological testing.
Myocardial calcification is associated with endocardial ablation failure of post-myocardial infarction ventricular tachycardia
Authors: de Riva Marta , Naruse Yoshihisa , Ebert Micaela , Watanabe Masaya , Scholte Arthur J , Wijnmaalen Adrianus P , Trines Serge A , Schalij Martin J , Montero-Cabezas Jose M , Zeppenfeld Katja
Published: January 2021

Aims

In patients with post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) ventricular tachycardia (VT), the presence of myocardial calcification (MC) may prevent heating of a subepicardial VT substrate contributing to endocardial ablation failure. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of MC in patients with post-MI VT and evaluate the impact of MC on outcome after endocardial ablation.

Methods and results

In 158 patients, the presence of MC was retrospectively assessed on fluoroscopy recordings in seven standard projections obtained during pre-procedural coronary angiograms. Myocardial calcification, defined as a distinct radiopaque area that moved synchronously with the cardiac contraction, was detected in 30 patients (19%). After endocardial ablation, only 6 patients (20%) with MC were rendered non-inducible compared with 56 (44%) without MC (P = 0.033) and of importance, 8 (27%) remained inducible for the clinical VT [compared with 9 (6%) patients without MC; P = 0.003] requiring therapy escalation. After a median follow-up of 31 months, 61 patients (39%) had VT recurrence and 47 (30%) died. Patients with MC had a lower survival free from the composite endpoint of VT recurrence or therapy escalation at 24-month follow-up (26% vs. 59%; P = 0.003). Presence of MC (HR 1.69; P = 0.046), a lower LV ejection fraction (HR 1.03 per 1% decrease; P = 0.017), and non-complete procedural success (HR 2.42; P = 0.002) were independently associated with a higher incidence of VT recurrence or therapy escalation.

Conclusion

Myocardial calcification was present in 19% of post-MI patients referred for VT ablation and was associated with a high incidence of endocardial ablation failure.
Annular and subvalvular dynamics after extracellular matrix mitral tube graft implantation in pigs
Authors: Tjørnild Marcell J , Carlson Hanse Lisa , Skov Søren N , Poulsen Karen B , Sharghbin Mona , Benhassen Leila L , Røpcke Diana M , Nielsen Sten L , Hasenkam J Michael
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVES

Entire mitral valve reconstruction with an extracellular matrix tube graft is a potential candidate to overcome the current limitations of mechanical and bioprosthetic valves. However, clinical data have raised concern with respect to patch failure. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of extracellular matrix mitral tube graft implantation on mitral annular and subvalvular regional dynamics in pigs.

METHODS

A modified tube graft design made of 2-ply extracellular matrix was used (CorMatrix®; Cardiovascular Inc., Alpharetta, GA, USA). The reconstructions were performed in an acute 80-kg porcine model (N = 8), where each pig acted as its own control. Haemodynamics were assessed with Mikro-Tip pressure catheters and mitral annular and subvalvular geometry and dynamics with sonomicrometry.

RESULTS

Catheter-based peak left atrial pressure and pressure difference across the mitral and aortic valves in the reconstructions were comparable to the values seen in the native mitral valves. Also comparable were maximum mitral annular area (755 ± 100 mm2), maximum septal-lateral distance (29.7 ± 1.7 mm), maximum commissure–commissure distance (35.0 ± 3.4 mm), end-systolic annular height-to-commissural width ratio (10.2 ± 1.0%) and end-diastolic interpapillary muscle distance (27.7 ± 3.3 mm). Systolic expansion of the mitral annulus was, however, observed after reconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

The reconstructed mitral valves were fully functional without regurgitation, obstruction or stenosis. The reconstructed mitral annular and subvalvular geometry and subvalvular dynamics were found in the same range to those in the native mitral valve. A regional annular ballooning effect occurred that might predispose to patch failure. However, the greatest risk was found at the papillary muscle attachments.
Phenotype and Genotype Study of Novel C480F Maribavir-Ganciclovir Cross-Resistance Mutation Detected in Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Santos Bravo Marta , Plault Nicolas , Sánchez Palomino Sonsoles , Mosquera Gutierrez María Mar , Fernández Avilés Francesc , Suarez Lledo María , Sabé Fernández Nuria , Rovira Montserrat , Alain Sophie , Marcos Maeso M Ángeles
Published: January 2021

Two transplant recipients (1 kidney and 1 hematopoietic stem cell) received maribavir (MBV) after cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection clinically resistant to standard therapy. Both patients achieved CMV DNA clearance within 30 and 18 days; however, the UL97 C480F variant emerged, causing recurrent CMV infection after a cumulative 2 months of MBV and 15 or 4 weeks of ganciclovir treatment, respectively. C480F was not detected under ganciclovir before MBV treatment. Recombinant phenotyping showed that C480F conferred the highest level of MBV resistance and ganciclovir cross-resistance, with impaired viral growth. Clinical follow-up and genotypic and phenotypic studies are essential for the assessment and optimization of patients with suspected MBV resistance.
Toolkits for implementing and evaluating digital health: A systematic review of rigor and reporting
Authors: Godinho Myron Anthony , Ansari Sameera , Guo Guan Nan , Liaw Siaw-Teng
Published: January 2021

Objective

Toolkits are an important knowledge translation strategy for implementing digital health. We studied how toolkits for the implementation and evaluation of digital health were developed, tested, and reported.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a systematic review of toolkits that had been used, field tested or evaluated in practice, and published in the English language from 2009 to July 2019. We searched several electronic literature sources to identify both peer-reviewed and gray literature, and records were screened as per systematic review conventions.

Results

Thirteen toolkits were eventually identified, all of which were developed in North America, Europe, or Australia. All reported their intended purpose, as well as their development process. Eight of the 13 toolkits involved a literature review, 3 did not, and 2 were unclear. Twelve reported an underlying conceptual framework, theory, or model: 3 cited the normalization process theory and 3 others cited the World Health Organization and International Telecommunication Union eHealth Strategy. Seven toolkits were reportedly evaluated, but details were unavailable. Forty-three toolkits were excluded for lack of field-testing.

Discussion

Despite a plethora of published toolkits, few were tested, and even fewer were evaluated. Methodological rigor was of concern, as several did not include an underlying conceptual framework, literature review, or evaluation and refinement in real-world settings. Reporting was often inconsistent and unclear, and toolkits rarely reported being evaluated.

Conclusion

Greater attention needs to be paid to rigor and reporting when developing, evaluating, and reporting toolkits for implementing and evaluating digital health so that they can effectively function as a knowledge translation strategy.
circGFRA1 affects the sensitivity of triple-negative breast cancer cells to paclitaxel via the miR-361-5p/TLR4 pathway
Authors: Zheng Shu-rong , Huang Qi-di , Zheng Zhi-hai , Zhang Zhong-tao , Guo Gui-long
Published: January 2021

In recent years, the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in tumours has attracted widespread attention. Some circRNAs have been reported to play a role in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, circRNAs have rarely been reported in terms of TNBC resistance. This study aimed to clarify that circGFRA1 affects the sensitivity of TNBC cells to paclitaxel (PTX) by the miR-361-5p/TLR4 pathway. Compared with the non-PTX-resistant TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231, the expression of circGFRA1 in the PTX-resistant TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231.PR was significantly increased. The small hairpin RNA-mediated circGFRA1 knockdown inhibited the resistance of TNBC cells to PTX. RNA pull-down assay and luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the binding between circGFRA1 and miR-361-5p and between miR-361-5p and TLR4. It has been proven that circGFRA1 knockdown can inhibit the resistance of TNBC cells to PTX by promoting the expression of miR-361-5p, and subsequently reduce the expression of TLR4.
Circular RNA circNINL promotes breast cancer progression through activating β-catenin signaling via miR-921/ADAM9 axis
Authors: Xu Chuanbo , Yu Haitao , Yin Xianghua , Zhang Jishi , Liu Chunlin , Qi Hong , Liu Peng
Published: January 2021

We investigated the expression and functions of circular RNA (circRNA) circNINL and miR-921 in breast cancer (BC) in this study. We found that the expression of circNINL increased while the expression of miR-921 decreased in BC tissues and cell lines, and their anomalous expressions were associated with malignant features and poor prognostic of BC. Then, we demonstrated that circNINL could interact with miR-921 and facilitate BC cells malignant process including proliferation acceleration, migration enhancement and apoptosis evasion via sponging miR-921 in vitro. Further investigations revealed that circNINL/miR-921 axis could mediate the expression of ADAM9 which was a direct target of miR-921. In addition, we exhibited that ADAM9 may activate β-catenin signaling by interacting with E-cadherin. We presented the vital roles of circNINL/miR-921/ADAM9/β-catenin signaling in the progression of BC.
Nucleoskeleton proteins for nuclear dynamics
Authors: Miyamoto Kei , Harata Masahiko
Published: January 2021

The eukaryotic nucleus shows organized structures of chromosomes, transcriptional components and their associated proteins. It has been believed that such a dense nuclear environment prevents the formation of a cytoskeleton-like network of protein filaments. However, accumulating evidence suggests that the cell nucleus also possesses structural filamentous components to support nuclear organization and compartments, which are referred to as nucleoskeleton proteins. Nucleoskeleton proteins including lamins and actin influence nuclear dynamics including transcriptional regulation, chromatin organization and DNA damage responses. Furthermore, these nucleoskeleton proteins play a pivotal role in cellular differentiation and animal development. In this commentary, we discuss how nucleoskeleton-based regulatory mechanisms orchestrate nuclear dynamics.
Down-regulation of lncRNA SNHG5 relieves sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by regulating the miR-374a-3p/TLR4/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Wang Min , Wei Jilou , Shang Futai , Zang Kui , Zhang Peng
Published: January 2021

Sepsis is an acute systemic infectious disease engendered by infectious factors, which can cause the dysfunction of multiple organs, including acute kidney injury (AKI). Recently, more and more researchers are focussing on long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) that is closely associated with the development and progression of various diseases; however, the role and mechanism of lncRNA in sepsis-induced AKI are not fully understood. Here, we found a significant increase in the expression of lncRNA small nuclear RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) in the serum of patients with sepsis than healthy controls. Similar results were obtained from mouse model of sepsis. Further investigations revealed that knockdown of SNHG5 improves the viability and reduces the rate of apoptosis and the generation of inflammatory cytokines in HK-2 and TCMK-1 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide. Mechanistically, we showed that SNHG5 can combine with microRNA-374a-3p (miR-374a-3p), which inhibits nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activity by targeting TLR4. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that SNHG5 may regulate sepsis-induced AKI via the miR-374a-3p/TLR4/NF-κB pathway, therefore providing a new insight into the treatment of this disease.
Long non-coding RNA DANCR accelerates colorectal cancer progression via regulating the miR-185-5p/HMGA2 axis
Authors: Lu Weiqun , Huang Zhiliang , Wang Jia , Liu Haiying
Published: January 2021

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial players in tumour progression. Herein, this work was designated to decipher the clinical significance, function and molecular mechanism of a lncRNA, differentiation antagonizing non-coding RNA (DANCR) in colorectal cancer (CRC). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was adopted to examine DANCR, miR-185-5p and HMGA2 mRNA expressions in CRC tissues and cells. Both gain-of-function and loss-of-function cell models for DANCR were established, and then MTT, wound healing and Transwell, flow cytometry assays were carried out to detect the proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis of CRC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and RIP assay were utilized to validate the targeting relationships between DANCR and miR-185-5p. Western blot was employed for detecting high mobility group A2 (HMGA2) expressions in CRC cells. In this study, we demonstrated that the expression of DANCR was elevated in CRC tissues and cell lines, and its high expression was significantly associated with increased TNM stage and positive lymph node metastasis. DANCR overexpression promoted CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle progression, but inhibited apoptosis; while knocking down DANCR caused the opposite effects. DANCR was further identified as a molecular sponge for miR-185-5p, and DANCR could indirectly increase the expression of HMGA2 via repressing miR-185-5p. In conclusion, DANCR/miR-185-5p/HMGA2 axis participated in the progression of CRC.
The Embodiment of Consumer Knowledge
Authors: Llewellyn Nick
Published: January 2021

An investigation into the embodiment of consumer knowledge is presented, drawing on ethnomethodology and the allied field of conversation analysis. Analyzing video recordings of 189 service encounters at the ticket desk of an art gallery, the study explores the embodiment of consumer knowledge, how consumer knowledge is witnessable from quotidian details of customers’ embodied conduct, how they talk, move their bodies, gesture, handle objects, and cast their gaze. Consumer knowledge is shown to be socially organized, with social considerations informing what customer should know, and how customers’ faulty assertions and claims should be treated. In the way firms approach consumer knowledge, the article describes how they might create or undermine interactive value. This article breaks new ground by demonstrating that consumer knowledge is relevant for understanding the actions of consumers, not only as a result of cognitive processes but also as it is embodied.
Distributing Attorney Fees in Multidistrict Litigation
Authors: Cheng Edward K , Edelman Paul H , Fitzpatrick Brian T
Published: January 2021

As consolidated multidistrict litigation has come to dominate the federal civil docket, the problem of how to divide attorney fees among participating firms has become the source of frequent and protracted litigation. For example, in the National Football League (NFL) Concussion Litigation, the judge awarded the plaintiff attorneys over $100 million in fees, but the division of those fees among the twenty-six firms involved sparked two additional years of litigation. We explore solutions to this fee division problem, drawing insights from the economics, game theory, and industrial organization literatures. Ultimately, we propose a novel division method based on peer reports. Participating firms assess the relative contribution of other firms to the litigation, and then optimization or Bayesian techniques arrive at a consensus or compromise fee allocation. Our methods are intuitively easy to understand, enable broad participation, and are resistant to collusion or other strategic behavior, making them likely to be accepted by the firms involved. We thus provide courts with an important mediation tool or decision rule for these fee division disputes.
Sixteen Weeks Later: Expanding the Risk Period for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Cirks Blake T , Rowe Samantha J , Jiang Sarah Y , Brooks Robert M , Mulreany Michael P , Hoffner Wendy , Jones Olcay Y , Hickey Patrick W
Published: January 2021

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has been observed in temporal association with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), typically within 2 to 6 weeks of illness or exposure. We present a case of MIS-C occurring 16 weeks after initial COVID-19 illness to highlight the prolonged period of risk for developing MIS-C.
Refugees but not Refugees: The UAE’s Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis Viewed through the Lived Experience of Syrians in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Charles Lorraine
Published: January 2021

The UAE is not a signatory to the the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. As such, it does not recognize individuals fleeing war or persecution as refugees. Instead, the UAE has allowed for the presence of Syrians and other vulnerable populations within its existing migration framework, the kafala system, using the temporary visas offered under this labour migration system as ‘an asylum policy by proxy’ or ‘quasi-asylum policy’. Despite this restrictive local response, the UAE is extremely generous internationally. The contradictory nature of the UAE’s response will be highlighted, where on one hand, it restricts admissions, yet on the other, it has been generous in terms of international aid to the Syrian crisis—the UAE’s version of the grand compromise. This research ultimately aims to understand how the UAE’s policy of ‘migrants’ (referring to temporary labour admissions), not ‘refugees’, and its ‘quasi-asylum policy’ has impacted the lived experience of a group of vulnerable Syrian families in Abu Dhabi.
Giant internal carotid aneurysm: endovascular parent artery occlusion after failed treatment using a flow diverter—case report
Authors: Sila Dalibor , Lenski Markus , Rath Stefan
Published: January 2021

Treatment of giant aneurysms is challenging. While parent vessel reconstruction is the primary therapeutical target, the parent artery occlusion (PAO) is considered the next treatment option. We report a case of a 56-year-old woman with a right-sided non-ruptured giant aneurysm of the cavernous internal carotid artery. After failed aneurysm treatment by vessel remodeling through a flow diverter stent, we decided upon aneurysm coiling and PAO. Prior to the procedure, a successful balloon occlusion test (BOT) was performed, and in the second stage, just before occluding the parent artery, the BOT with induced hypotension was repeated. We achieved a good angiographic result and successful outcome without neurological deficit. In the case of failed treatment of giant aneurysm by vessel reconstruction, PAO is a therapeutical option. Prior to the vessel occlusion, a BOT with induced arterial hypotension challenge should be performed.
Loss and Reappearance of A Antigen After Chemotherapy Leading to Blood Group Discrepancy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Case Report
Authors: Prakash Satya , Mohapatra Sonali , Bhagavathi M Sree , Das Niladri , Krushna Ray Gopal , Mukherjee Somnath
Published: January 2021

A male patient aged 11 years diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia presented with complaints of fever, lethargy, and bleeding manifestations. On ordering red blood cells and platelet transfusion, his blood group was tested. Blood group discrepancy was observed in that forward grouping showed the O Rh D positive blood group and reverse grouping revealed the A Rh D positive. The patient’s previous blood group record was O Rh D positive, and he had a transfusion history of O Rh D positive red blood cells and platelets in other hospital. Initial immunohematological workup results, including adsorption and heat elution, were consistent with the O Rh D-positive blood group, but further workups on follow-up after the commencement of chemotherapy showed that his original blood group was A Rh D positive, in which the A antigen expression was previously masked by the underlying disease condition of the patient. Hence, the correlation of laboratory results with clinical details and case history is an essential step in resolving such blood group discrepancies.
Characteristics and Predictors of Outcome of Pseudoaneurysms Associated With Vertebral Artery Dissections: A 310-Patient Case Series
Authors: Shlobin Nathan A , Azad Hooman A , Mitra Akash , Prasad Nikil , Cloney Michael B , Hopkins Benjamin S , Jahromi Babak S , Potts Matthew B , Dahdaleh Nader S
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Vertebral artery dissections (VADs) are a common cause of stroke in young patients and can result in various secondary effects, including pseudoaneurysm formation.

OBJECTIVE

To identify differences in predisposing factors and outcomes for VADs with and without concomitant pseudoaneurysms.

METHODS

We retrospective chart reviewed patients who presented to our institution at the time of VAD with at least a 3-mo clinical follow-up. Demographics, VAD characteristics, treatment, and outcomes represented as modified Rankin scale (mRS) scores were collected.

RESULTS

Of 310 patients with a VAD included in this study, 301 patients had an identified pseudoaneurysm status, with 54 pseudoaneurysm-associated VADs and 247 VADs not associated with pseudoaneurysm. VAD patients with associated pseudoaneurysms were more likely to be female (P < .004), have bilateral VADs (P < .001), and have fewer vertebral artery segments affected (P = .018), and less likely to have stroke (P < .008) or occlusion of the vertebral artery (P < .001). There was no difference in the proportion of patients treated with antiplatelet agents (P = .12) or anticoagulants (P = .27) between the groups. VAD patients with associated pseudoaneurysms were more likely to have a higher mRS at 3-mo follow-up (P = .044) but not discharge (P = .18) or last follow-up (P = .05). VAD patients with pseudoaneurysms were equally likely to have resolution of occlusion (P = .40) and stenosis (P = .19).

CONCLUSION

Demographics and clinical and radiological characteristics of VADs associated with pseudoaneurysms are different from those without associated pseudoaneurysms. Vertebral artery dissections with concomitant pseudoaneurysms are neither associated with worse functional nor radiographic outcomes.
A State of Discord
Authors: El Taraboulsi-McCarthy Sherine
Published: January 2021

Contrary to the majority of Western scholarship on Libya, which ascribes Libya’s “statelessness” to a failure on the part of local actors to adopt modern state formation following independence in 1951, the author argues that this view fails to take into account local power dynamics among social actors and between social actors and the state (colonial and postcolonial) that manifested themselves in modes of cooperation and contestation and have shaped Libya’s experience with statehood. The author shows that while contestation among social actors before and after independence had been stronger than centralizing forces, resulting in a state of discord, this should be explained in context and through a local account of Libya’s history as a colonized country. This chapter calls for a more robust incorporation of temporal aspects of social and political development in theorizing the state in Libya and the Arab world.
The Epidemiology of Acute Stress Disorder and Other Early Responses to Trauma in Adults
Authors: Biggs Quinn M. , Vance Mary C. , Fullerton Carol S. , Ursano Robert J.
Published: January 2021

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a trauma- and stressor-related disorder characterized by exposure to a traumatic event closely followed by symptoms of intrusion, negative mood, dissociation, avoidance, arousal, and impairment in functioning. ASD’s time-limited duration (3 days to 1 month) makes it distinct from, but related to, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is diagnosed after 1 month. Although there are no large-scale, population-based studies of ASD, smaller studies have examined rates of ASD in select populations following a variety of traumatic events. The prevalence of ASD varies widely depending on the type of traumatic event and the population. The highest rates are in victims of sexual assault and violent crime, with more moderate rates in victims of motor vehicle accidents, burns, illness, disaster, war, and terrorism. Female gender, younger age, and a history of prior trauma, PTSD, or other mental health disorders are risk factors for ASD.
Peaceful Change
Authors: Knutsen Torbjørn L.
Published: January 2021

The first thorough discussion of “peaceful change” took place in 1936–1937 in two international conferences sponsored by the League of Nations. The League was prompted by the uncertainties and tensions that followed decisions by Germany, Italy, and Japan to leave it. Teachers and scholars of international relations convened in these League-sponsored conferences to assess the demands of the three dissatisfied powers. As they debated how the demands of these powers could best be tackled, one answer tended to emerge: through a policy of peaceful change. But what was “peaceful change”? And how did the early IR scholars approach the concept scientifically? This chapter seeks to answer these two questions.