bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘I’m over the moon!’: patient-perceived outcomes of hepatitis C treatment
Authors: Pourmarzi Davoud , Smirnov Andrew , Hall Lisa , FitzGerald Gerard , Rahman Tony
Published: June 2020

Understanding patient-perceived outcomes is crucial for assessing the effectiveness and acceptability of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. This study aimed to explore patient-perceived outcomes of receiving direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). This study was a part of a mixed-methods case study of the Prince Charles Hospital program for improving access to HCV treatment in community settings. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with nine patients who were in different stages of their treatment for HCV. The participants were recruited using purposive sampling. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Patients emphasised ‘having more energy’ when reporting improvements in their physical health following treatment. They also reported a newly developed sense of freedom and hope. Improved physical and mental health empowered them to start a healthy lifestyle and to practise self-protection from the risk of re-infection. Patients highlighted their desire to help other patients to receive treatment, which was connected to their experience of the services that they received and their perceived health outcomes. Patients expect and experience various outcomes that are related to the physical, psychological and social aspects of living with, and being cured of HCV. Emphasis on the short-term outcomes of receiving HCV treatment may improve HCV treatment uptake and adherence rates.
Role of preplaced silicon on a TIG processed SiC incorporated microalloyed steel
Authors: Baker Thomas Neville , Muñoz-de Escalona Patricia , Olasolo Maider , Marrocco Tiziana , Kelly James , Wei Bingquiang , He Kejian , Mridha Shahajahan
Published: June 2020

Research aimed at enhancing the surface properties of carbon steels by incorporating fine silicon carbide particulates has had limited success because the dissolution of the ceramic occurred. This research considers a method of reducing SiC dissolution by generating a high Fe–Si liquid which protects the ceramic. Three particulate groups were investigated, (1) ∼ 5 µm SiC, (2) ∼45 µm Si +∼ 5 µm SiC, and (3) ∼45 µm Si, all incorporated into a microalloyed steel using a tungsten inert gas process. Detailed microhardness of the melt zones together with microstructural analysis showed that the addition of Si resulted in a cracked hard layer containing SiC. However, in Specimen 1, a thicker, hardcrack-free layer resulted from the microstructure developed by the dissolution of SiC.
Sintering behaviour of Nb–16Si–25Ti–8Hf–2Cr–2Al alloy powder fabricated by a hydrogenation–dehydrogenation method
Authors: Park Ki Beom , Choi Jaeho , Lee Sung Yong , Park Jae-Young , Na Tae-Wook , Choi Jong-In , Kang Jang-Won , Park Hyung-Ki
Published: June 2020

The present study investigated the sintering behaviour of Nb–16Si–25Ti–8Hf–2Cr–2Al alloy powders. The alloy powders were produced using ahydrogenation–dehydrogenation method and featured an irregular morphology. Powders sintered at 1500°C and 1600°C exhibited pores in their microstructures, while powders sintered at 1700°C for 4 h were fully densified and poreless. The cast ingot and powders were composed of three phases: Nbss, Nb5Si3, and Nb3Si. However, the Nb3Si phase was not observed, while HfO2 oxides formed in the sintered compact. The hafnium and oxygen reacted to form an HfO2 oxide during the high-temperature sintering process. From the result of the thermodynamic calculation, Hf oxide formed after sintering because Hf has the highest driving force for oxidation among the elements constituting the alloy.
2D/2D heterojunction of g–C3N4/SnS2: room-temperature sensing material for ultrasensitive and rapid-recoverable NO2 detection
Authors: Sun Quan , Hao Juanyuan , Zheng Shengliang , Wan Peng , Li Jialu , Zhang Di , Li Yanqiu , Wang Tingting , Wang You
Published: June 2020

Heterojunction engineering plays an indispensable role in improving gas-sensing performance. However, rational heterojunction engineering to achieve room-temperature NO2 sensing with both high response and rapid recovery is still a challenge. Herein, a 2D/2D heterojunction of g–C3N4/SnS2 is designed to improve the sensing performance of SnS2 and used for ultrasensitive and rapid-recoverable NO2 detection at room temperature. The pristine SnS2 fails to work at room temperature because of its high resistivity and weak adsorption to NO2. After combination with g–C3N4 nanosheets, the g–C3N4/SnS2-based sensor exhibits an extremely high response (503%) and short recovery time (166 s) towards 1 ppm NO2 at room temperature. The improved sensing performance is primarily attributed to the increased adsorption sites and enhanced charge transfer induced by the 2D/2D heterojunctions with large interface contact area. This achievement of g–C3N4/SnS2 2D/2D heterostructures demonstrates a promising pathway for the design of sensitive gas-sensing material based on a 2D/2D heterojunction strategy.
Angular momentum and rotational energy of mean flows in toroidal magnetic fields
Authors: Wiesenberger M. , Held M.
Published: June 2020

We derive the balance equation for the Favre averaged angular momentum in toroidal not necessarily axisymmetric magnetic field equilibria. We find that the components of angular momentum are given by the covariant poloidal and toroidal components of

E
×
B
 

and parallel flow velocities and we separately identify all relevant stress tensors, torques and source terms for each of these components. Our results feature the Favre stress generalisations of previously found Reynolds stresses like the diamagnetic or parallel

E
×
B
 

stress, as well as the density gradient drive term. Further, we identify the magnetic shear as a source of poloidal

E
×
B
 

angular momentum and discuss the mirror and the Lorentz force. Here, we find that the geodesic transfer term, the Stringer-Winsor spin-up term and the ion-orbit loss term are all part of the Lorentz force and are in fact one and the same term.

Discussing the relation to angular velocity we build the inertia tensor with the help of the first fundamental form of a flux-surface. In turn, the inertia tensor is used to construct a flux-surface averaged rotational energy for

E
×
B
 

surface flows of the plasma. The evolution of this rotational energy features a correction of previous results due to the inertia tensor. In particular, this correction suggests that density sources on the high-field side contribute much more to zonal flow energy generation than on the low field side.

Our derivation is based on a full-F, electromagnetic, gyro-kinetic model in a long-wavelength limit. The results can be applied to gyro-kinetic as well as gyro-fluid theories and can also be compared to drift-kinetic and drift-fluid models. Simplified cases for the magnetic field geometry including the axisymmetric purely toroidal and purely poloidal magnetic fields are discussed, as are the angular momentum balance of the electromagnetic fields, the ion-orbit loss mechanism and the parallel acceleration.
Effect of mesh geometry on resistive Micromegas for the ATLAS experiment
Authors: Sidiropoulou Ourania
Published: June 2020

The ATLAS Experiment will use resistive Micromegas detectors for the upgrade of the forward Muon System (NSW, for New Small Wheel). With the test of the first production modules, instabilities in the detector operation have been observed, leading to a systematic revision of the selected construction components and working parameters. In particular, the effect of the mesh geometry with respect to the discharge behaviour was studied using a special Micromegas detector designed and built by the ATLAS CERN group in 2014. The detector has a Micromegas structure similar to the one later on adopted by the NSW project; moreover it provides the possibility to easily replace the mesh. The test procedure consisted in measuring current, gain and counting rate from a 55Fe X-ray source, as a function of the amplification voltage up to the discharge limit. The systematic analysis of the data allowed us to draw conclusions on the stability interval of six different types of mesh, including the one chosen to be used for the NSW, consistent with the expectations. Results suggested that the mesh selected for the NSW (among the few available in the requested big size), was not optimal for operation with a safe plateau at high gain before discharges start to occur. After the present study, cost constraint and available dimension constraints prevented the replacement of the chosen baseline design, which is already available.

A post-publication change was made to this article on 25 Jun 2020 to correct the pdf header.
Possibilities of using probabilistic models in theoretical physics
Authors: Deryabina G S , Kuleshova Ju D , Pinchuk I A , Zabelina S B , Vysotskaya P A
Published: June 2020

The article presents a historical overview of the path to understanding the probabilistic nature of the laws governing the behavior of microobjects and the creation of quantum mechanics. Its postulates are given and directions in the mathematization of quantum theory are described. The fundamental differences of the quantum probabilistic model from the classical one are presented in an overview.
High-frequency Optical Solution for Human Motion Tracking and Eye-tracking
Authors: Chertopolokhov V A , Khinenzon E V , Pravdivtsev A V , Grigoryan G L
Published: June 2020

The high frequency optical tracker is discussed in the article. Test image processing algorithm and the math model of a marker image was proposed. It is based on the real images of typical objects for detection. The investigation of its statistical characteristics gives a good approach for image processing algorithms. The model shows good conformity to real data. A new gaze tracking system based on self-designed system on the crystal was developed and tested. The high frame rate allows us to detect and determine several neurologic diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The device can be also used in wearable virtual reality headsets.
Synthesis and properties study of the X-ray phosphors Gd2O2S:Tb
Authors: Sh Ustabaev P , Bakhmetyev V V
Published: June 2020

Gd2O2S:Tb based X-ray stimulated luminescent phosphors for X-ray intensifying screens, X-ray-visible light converters and bio-imaging are synthesized using two different methods (in a neutral or reducing atmospheres). The effects of atmosphere at synthesis, activator and flux content in the charge mixture and crucible lacing upon the prepared phosphors phase composition and luminescence intensity are studied. The optimal synthesis conditions are determined affording a Gd2O2S:Tb phosphor free of admixture phases and providing the highest luminescence intensity upon excitation with «hard» X-ray irradiation. The synthesized phosphor is characterized by particle size distribution analysis and X-ray stimulated luminescence spectra measurements.
Computer analysis of the influence of technological parameters of a high–speed liquid crystal modulator on its integral characteristics
Authors: Simonenko G V
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this article is a computer analysis of various designs of LC light modulators. Based on the integrated characteristics of the LC modulator, its optimal design is found. It was shown that the LC modulator based on the LC structure with a twist angle of 270° under antisymmetric boundary conditions with small values of the pretilt angles on the orienting substrates, operating in the waveguide mode and using a phase film compensator, has optimal integral characteristics. The results of comparing the integral characteristics of the LC modulator based on various LC structures are presented.
Structure and properties of self-healing materials based on hydroxyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane and boric acid
Authors: Mashchenko V I , Sitnikov N N , Khabibullina I A , Kuzmin M K , Chausov D N
Published: June 2020

Borosiloxane materials (BS) with self-healing properties based on polydimethyl-siloxane with terminal hydroxyl groups and boric acid were obtained. BS was obtained with differ in viscoelastic characteristics by varying the synthesis conditions and composition. The properties of the obtained BS are characterized by the methods of synchronous thermal analysis and mass spectrometry. Self-healing and elastic properties were characterized by methods of spreading and rebound of ball from BS. The molecular and supramolecular structures of borosiloxanes obtained under various conditions explaining the difference in their viscoelastic properties are presented. It is shown that by changing the conditions of synthesis and the introduction of a plasticizer, it is possible to vary the parameters of self-healing and elastic properties of materials based on BS. The resulting materials may be interesting for various fields where the restoration of material characteristics by self-healing is required, from medical biocompatible materials to nano- and microelectronics and space technology.
Formation of vortex structures by noncollinear waves on the water surface
Authors: Poplevin A V , Filatov S V
Published: June 2020

The generation of a large-scale vortex flow by gravity waves on the water surface has been experimentally studied. It is shown that the mechanism of vortex system attenuation changes with an increase in the relative pump amplitude. The wave amplitudes have been experimentally determined at which the experiment is not described by a theoretical model. The experimental results agree well with the developed theoretical model.
A new method of potenciation of aqueous media using high-frequency glow discharge plasma
Authors: Danyleiko Yu , Ashurov M , Belov S , Alborova M , Egorov A , Shilin N L
Published: June 2020

A method of activation of aqueous solutions of strong electrolytes using high-frequency glow discharge plasma in water vapor at atmospheric pressure is considered. An experimental setup for activation of aqueous solutions of NaCl and KCl salts, sodium sulfate Na2SO4, potassium sulfate K2SO4, etc. is presented. Experimental studies were conducted using an activated solution based on potassium sulfate K2SO4, at a concentration of 5.7×10−2 M. The limit values of acidity, redox potential (Eh) and hydrogen peroxide concentration of the prepared activated solution were: pH ≍ 8.3, Eh ≍ 800, H2O2 concentration ≍ 5×10−4 mol. %. The effectiveness of the K2SO4 - based activated aqueous solution was evaluated at test sites of typical crops, such as soybeans and corn. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that the method of activation of aqueous solutions using high-frequency glow discharge plasma is quite simple, technological and low-cost.
Nonlocal hydrodynamic modeling high-rate shear processes in condensed matter
Authors: Khantuleva T , Shalymov D
Published: June 2020

Problem of mathematical modeling high-rate processes in condensed medium is considered by using new nonlocal hydrodynamic approach based on the results of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics and cybernetical physics. Interrelationships between the spatiotemporal correlations in the integral thermodynamic relationships between forces and fluxes and the system internal structure made it possible to describe the self-organization of new dynamic structures in the open system. The temporal structure evolution is described by methods of the control theory of adaptive systems. The proposed approach to the structure evolution allows a new insight into the system state stability. The proposed approach is used to describe high-rate shear flow in the Couette formulation. Explicit approximate solutions to the problem show that steady pure shear flow far from equilibrium looses its stability due to dynamic structure evolution. Near the boundaries there appear layers where continuum mechanics becomes invalid and non-equilibrium interfacial interaction with the walls forms vortex structures. In transient modes a meta-stable state can occur where the system evolution can change its direction due to any weak impact.
Calculus investigation of cavity resistant propellers. Defining cavity protraction circumstances
Authors: Dikiy S V , Kochnov G V
Published: June 2020

One of the key purpose in water propeller design is to determine operating conditions where the cavity mode appears. They may result in dramatic thrust lack, drag rise and mechanical damage. An objective of the article is to verify potential of computer fluid dynamics program set OpenFoam in 5-bladed propeller propulsion characteristics investigation next to the cavity mode, and to study pitch and maximum thickness roles in cavity sustainability. Applied in the work method is based on solution of Reynolds equations with turbulent model closure via finite volume method. Suggested methodology proved a high conformity to experimental data.
Experimental investigations and development of physico-mathematical model of an aerodynamic surface icing in air flow carrying droplets and crystals
Authors: Zhbanov V A , Kashevarov A V , Miller A B , Potapov Yu F , Tokarev O D , Stasenko A L
Published: June 2020

The icing of aircraft parts during flight in mixed clouds (containing droplets and crystals) is one of important and, at the same time, insufficiently studied cases. In the present work, the effect of melting ratio on icing intensity of wing leading edge is experimentally studied. A physical and mathematical model of crystals accretion on the surface due to their deformation and destruction is proposed.
Microwave gas-discharge device OVOD-1a sanitizing indoor air
Authors: Andreev S N , Barkhudarov E M , Yu Egorova I , Ivashkin P I , Kossyi I A , Misakyan M A , Moryakov I V , Kazartsev D A , Selyaninov Yu O , Tsybulskiy A S
Published: June 2020

A new UV scanning system OVOD-1a for the indoor air environment, based on high-performance microwave gas-discharge lamps developed at GPI RAS, is described. The first experiments demonstrating the air-cleaning capabilities of UV equipment were carried out. It is shown that in laboratory rooms used for the stay of livestock bred in agriculture, the energy cost of almost complete purification of the air environment from viral and fungal components is of the order of 10−2 kW × h/m3. B acter ial sanita tio n o f the laboratory p re mise s o f the research physical Institute is carried out with an energy cost of ≍ 3 10−3 kW×h/m3. The fundamental physical processes underlying microwave UV lamps, which are the main component of the OVOD-1a sanitation system, are discussed.
Application of laser fluorescence spectroscopy in non-invasive assessment of ultraviolet-induced skin immune response in vivo
Authors: Makmatov-Rys M B , Raznitsyna I A , Mosalskaya D V , Bobrov M A , Ivleva A L , Sekirin A B , Kaznacheeva E V , Gureeva M A , Molochkov A V , Rogatkin D A
Published: June 2020

Acute ultraviolet (UV) -induced skin damage is associated with structural alterations, vasodilatation and inflammatory response. Leukocyte infiltration is one of the main features of inflammation and could be found in the area of UV injury. It was shown that porphyrins which have well-known autofluorescent properties play a role in the chemoattraction of immune cells to the area of local damage. This study examined the possibility of application of laser fluorescence spectroscopy (LFS) in the assessment of ultraviolet-induced immune response in ICR mice. Animals (N=25) were exposed by UVB light and LFS was conducted on the dorsal skin of each mice 0, 0.5, 3, 6 and 24 hours after UV irradiation. Moreover, in every time point we performed skin biopsy and histology. Using LFS, time-dependent dynamic changes in the fluorescence parameters of porphyrins were found. Mentioned indices were in a good agreement with histological findings. Statistically significant correlation was found between the severity of inflammatory infiltrate and the tissue content index (η) of porphyrins (Pearson correlation coefficient: r = 0.912, p = 0.031). Achieved results not only have fundamental value but could be further investigated and applied in clinical practice: e.g. to objectively predict individual immunologic reaction to UV-light.
Estimation of Matrix Variance-Covariance on Nonparametric Regression Spline Truncated for Longitudinal Data
Authors: Ramli Mustain , Ratnasari Vita , Nyoman Budiantara I
Published: June 2020

Regression analysis is a statistical analysis used to determine the pattern of relationships between predictor variables and response variables. There are two models estimation approaches in regression analysis, namely parametric regression and nonparametric regression. The parametric regression approach is used if the shape of the regression curve is known. In cases with unknown relationship patterns, the development is done using nonparametric regression. Nonparametric regression is a model estimation method which is based on an approach that is not bound by certain assumptions of the regression curve shape. One of the most commonly used nonparametric regression curve estimates is the spline approach. Spline is one of the nonparametric approaches that is often used and has a very good ability to handle data characters that are smooth as well as data whose behavior changes at certain sub-intervals. Theoretically, the spline approach is not only able to estimate nonparametric regression curves for cross section data, but can also be developed for longitudinal data. Longitudinal data is a combination of cross section data and time series data where the longitudinal data between subjects are mutually independent, but between observations are dependent. This study aims to find the estimation curves of spline truncated multivariable nonparametric regression for longitudinal data using the Weighted Least Square (WLS) method and to find the estimation of variance-covariance matrix using the Maximum Likelihood Estimate (MLE) method.
Optimal Control of HIV/AIDS Epidemic Model with Two Latent Stages, Vertical Transmission and Treatment
Authors: Shofianah Nur , Fitri Sa’adatul , Trisilowati  , Kristanti Karunia Theda
Published: June 2020

In this research, we discussed about optimal control of HIV/AIDS epidemic model with two latent stages, vertical transmission and treatment. In this model, the population is divided into five subpopulations, namely susceptible subpopulation, slow latent subpopulation, fast latent subpopulation, symptomatic subpopulation and AIDS subpopulation. The latent stage is divided into slow latent and fast latent stage depend on the condition of immune system which is different for each individual. Treatment (ART/antiretroviral) is given to infected individu in symptomatic stage. The rate of treatment from symptomatic stage to slow latent stage and to fast latent stage are set as u
1(t) and u
2(t) control variable, respectively. Here, the objective of optimal control is to minimize the number of infected as well as the cost of controls. The optimal control is obtained by applying Pontryagin’s Principle. In the end, we show some numerical simulations by using Forward-Backward Sweep Method. Numerical simulation result show that the combination of u
1 and u
2 control is the most effective control to reduce the number of infected/symptomatic subpopulation with minimum cost of controls.
Genome-wide association studies of brain imaging data via weighted distance correlation
Authors: Wen Canhong , Yang Yuhui , Xiao Quan , Huang Meiyan , Pan Wenliang ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: June 2020

Motivation

Imaging genetics is mainly used to reveal the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric risk genes and understand the relationship between human brain structure, functional and individual differences. Increasingly, the brain-wide imaging phenotypes in voxels are available to test the association with genetic markers. A challenge with analyzing such data is their high dimensionality and complex relationships.

Results

To tackle this challenge, we introduce a weighed distance correlation (wdCor) that can assess the association between genetic markers and voxel-based imaging data. Importantly, the wdCor test takes the voxel-based data as a whole multivariate phenotype, which preserves the spatial continuity and might enhance the power. Besides, an adaptive permutation procedure is introduced to determine the P-values of the wdCor test and also alleviate the computational burden in GWAS. In extensive simulation studies, wdCor achieves much better performances compared to the original distance correlation. We also successfully apply wdCor to conduct a large-scale analysis on data from the Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging project (ADNI).

Availability and implementation

Our wdCor method provides new research directions and ideas for multivariate analysis of high-dimensional data, it can also be used as a tool for scientific analysis of imaging genetics research in practical applications. The R package wdcor, and the code for reproducing all results in this article is available in Github: https://github.com/yangyuhui0129/wdcor.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Efficient weighted univariate clustering maps outstanding dysregulated genomic zones in human cancers
Authors: Song Mingzhou , Zhong Hua
Published: June 2020

Motivation

Chromosomal patterning of gene expression in cancer can arise from aneuploidy, genome disorganization or abnormal DNA methylation. To map such patterns, we introduce a weighted univariate clustering algorithm to guarantee linear runtime, optimality and reproducibility.

Results

We present the chromosome clustering method, establish its optimality and runtime and evaluate its performance. It uses dynamic programming enhanced with an algorithm to reduce search-space in-place to decrease runtime overhead. Using the method, we delineated outstanding genomic zones in 17 human cancer types. We identified strong continuity in dysregulation polarity—dominance by either up- or downregulated genes in a zone—along chromosomes in all cancer types. Significantly polarized dysregulation zones specific to cancer types are found, offering potential diagnostic biomarkers. Unreported previously, a total of 109 loci with conserved dysregulation polarity across cancer types give insights into pan-cancer mechanisms. Efficient chromosomal clustering opens a window to characterize molecular patterns in cancer genome and beyond.

Availability and implementation

Weighted univariate clustering algorithms are implemented within the R package ‘Ckmeans.1d.dp’ (4.0.0 or above), freely available at https://cran.r-project.org/package=Ckmeans.1d.dp.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Timing of exposure to gonadotropins has differential effects on the conceptus: evidence from a mouse model
Authors: Sullivan-Pyke Chantae , Mani Sneha , Rhon-Calderon Eric A , Ord Teri , Coutifaris Christos , Bartolomei Marisa S , Mainigi Monica
Published: June 2020

Superovulation with gonadotropins alters the hormonal milieu during early embryo development and placentation, and may be responsible for fetal and placental changes observed after in vitro fertilization (IVF). We hypothesized that superovulation has differential effects depending on timing of exposure. To test our hypothesis, we isolated the effect of superovulation on pre- and peri-implantation mouse embryos. Blastocysts were obtained from either natural mating or following superovulation and mating, and were transferred into naturally mated or superovulated pseudopregnant recipient mice. Fetal weight was significantly lower after peri-implantation exposure to superovulation, regardless of preimplantation exposure (p = 0.006). Placentas derived from blastocysts exposed to superovulation pre- and peri-implantation were larger than placentas derived from natural blastocysts that are transferred into a natural or superovulated environment (p < 0.05). Fetal-to-placental weight ratio decreased following superovulation during the pre- or peri-implantation period (p = 0.05, 0.01, respectively) and these effects were additive. Peg3 DNA methylation levels were decreased in placentas derived from exposure to superovulation both pre- and peri-implantation compared with unexposed embryos and exposure of the preimplantation embryo only. Through RNA sequencing on placental tissue, changes were identified in genes involved in immune system regulation, specifically interferon signaling, which has been previously implicated in implantation and maintenance of early pregnancy in mice. Overall, we found that the timing of exposure to gonadotropin stimulation can have differential effects on fetal and placental growth. These findings could impact clinical practice and underscores the importance of dissecting the role of procedures utilized during IVF on pregnancy complications.
Undergraduate Biology Instructors Still Use Mostly Teacher-Centered Discourse Even When Teaching with Active Learning Strategies
Authors: Kranzfelder Petra , Bankers-Fulbright Jennifer L , García-Ojeda Marcos E , Melloy Marin , Mohammed Sagal , Warfa Abdi-Rizak M
Published: June 2020

Reform efforts in undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) instruction often emphasize student-centered teaching approaches, but relatively little attention is paid to the way STEM teachers use discourse when interacting with their students. In the present study, we examined the instructional and discourse behaviors of biology faculty members (N = 20) teaching in undergraduate biology classes. Although we found that the biology teachers spent most of their time guiding student learning in active learning activities and less time presenting, an analysis of their classroom communicative approaches showed that the participants mostly used authoritative and not dialogic discourse to teach biology content. Similarly, we found a strong positive correlation between biology teachers guiding student learning and authoritative, interactive approaches, suggesting that these teachers mostly asked the students to recall facts or basic concepts rather than asking them to collaboratively build knowledge. We describe the implications of these findings and our results for undergraduate biology instruction.
Effects of endurance and strength exercises associated with whey protein supplementation on quality of life (SF36) in community-dwelling seniors
Authors: Loureiro H , Pocinho M , Faria A , Azenha J , Silva M , Martins R , Veríssimo M
Published: June 2020

Introduction Ageing is a natural, physiological and markedly heterogeneous process; however, it is possible to modify the functional decline and to promote healthy ageing. The practise of physical exercise and nutrition have shown benefits in the promotion of a better quality of life (QoL).

Objectives To verify whether protein supplementation associated with physical exercise contributes to the QoL of seniors living in the community.

Methodology A clinical prospective, blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study with a control group was conducted. The sample was probabilistic and randomly assigned. They were distributed through the 4 arms of the study with 19 participants each:1-physical exercise (strength and endurance) + whey protein supplement (20g); 2-physical exercise (strength and endurance) + placebo; 3-only whey protein supplement (20g); 4-control (without intervention). Each group was assessed at baseline and past 12 weeks. QoL was evaluated through SF36, before and after the intervention. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used.

Results The sample consisted of 79 individuals, 55 women and 25 men, with a mean age of 68.54±5.72, mean height 1.57±0.09m, mean weight 72.7±14.3kg, being homogeneous with respect to age by sex and the anthropometric characteristics (body mass index, arm and leg circumferences). The comparison between the pre and post-intervention results showed that groups 1 and 2 significantly improved their QoL (p < 0.05); patients in groups 1 and 3 improved substantially more than in groups 2 and 4 (p < 0.05). Subjects in group 4 worsened their outcomes in all domains of QoL assessed.

Conclusion Protein supplementation showed a positive influence on the quality of life, primarily when associated with physical exercise. In fact, seniors who were not submitted to supplementation or a prescribed exercise showed a worsening of their quality of life throughout the study.
Associations of socioeconomic and health related factors with fall risk on community dwelling older adults from Alentejo
Authors: Jerônimo A , Santos M , Picamilho S , Caldas M , Pereira C
Published: June 2020

Introduction With the world, population ageing falls become a problem. Portugal follows this tendency, particularly in Alentejo. Ecological models evidence that biological, behaviour and socioeconomic factors explain falls. However, the role of socioeconomic and health-related factors on the risk of falls is not well known.

Objectives To analyse the association of socioeconomic and health-related factors with fall risk on community-dwelling older adults from Alentejo.

Methodology This observational study involved 384 community-dwelling older adults (73.6 ± 6.0 years), the minimal sample size calculated by Open Epi Online program, of whom 40.6% fell at least once in the previous year. Sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, marital status, schooling, retirement age, living alone and yield) and health-related factors (number of health conditions, cognitive state, fat mass %, physical activity, and depression index) were accessed.

Results Univariate Regression Logistic showed that gender was the only sociodemographic characteristics which significantly explains falls occurrence, in which to be woman increases the likelihood of falling on 96% (OR: 1.96, p < 0.05). As regard health-related factors, results show that for each additional health condition the likelihood of falling increased 17%, for each additional 1% on fat mass this likelihood increased 4%, and for each additional point on depression index this likelihood increased 15.1% (OR: 1.04 to 1.17, p < 0.05).

Conclusion Health-related factors showed to be more preponderant in the occurrence of falls compared to socio-demographic characteristics. Women with more chronic conditions increased fat mass, and high depression index will be the most susceptible to falls. Thus, preventive measures should play particular attention to these persons.
Effect of a therapeutic exercise program (FisioPausa) on the quality of life of employees from CESPU
Authors: Rocha P , Araújo F , Lafourcade E , Callais N , Gabriele M , Lopes S
Published: June 2020

Introduction In the context of work, labouring time is mainly spent in the sitting position and in a continuous way. This reality contributes for the increase of a sedentary lifestyle of workers, leading to health-related diseases and consequently decreasing they quality of life (QoL).

Objectives Verify the effect of a therapeutic exercise program in quality of life, and evaluate the association between different components of QoL, with back pain, physical activity and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Methodology A pré-post interventional study was realized in workers from the Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico Universitário. Fourteen participants were included and submitted to evaluations with a preliminary survey, the SF-36v2 (before and after 8 weeks of intervention) to assess the effects of the program in QoL. All the participants were submitted to a specific therapeutic exercise program of 20 minutes, twice a week, and during 8 weeks.

Results There was a general improvement in Health-Related Physical and Mental Quality of Life. These improvements were especially observed in the functional capacity with a higher median of 5.00 (p = 0,015). Although it was less evident, Vitality was the domain with higher improvements amongst all the four Mental domains (increase of 10.00 points across time, p = 0.341). Associations were observed between pain and functional capacity (p = 0,027) BMI and Mental Health (p = 0,027) and finally between Age and Mental Health (p = 0,028).

Conclusion Our therapeutic exercise program seems to have positive effect on quality of life, especially regarding functional capacity of workers. Participants with the highest pain were associated with decreased functional capacity and older people or those with higher BMI showed weaker mental health.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the VISA-P questionnaire for Portuguese-speaking (Portugal) patients with patellar tendinopathy
Authors: Chaves P , Ribeiro D , Gomes J , Monteiro M , Marote S , Frutuoso S , Araújo FA , Paço M
Published: June 2020

Introduction Patellar tendinopathy is a condition frequently verified in individuals who practice regular physical activity, therefore functional evaluation is crucial to monitor symptoms. The VISA-P was developed for English-speaking population to evaluate patients with this condition, and there is a need to adapt this tool to Portuguese (Portugal).

Objectives To cross-cultural adapt and validate the VISA-P questionnaire for Portuguese-speaking (Portugal) patellar tendinopathy patients

Methodology The VISA-P questionnaire was translated and cross-culturally adapted into Portuguese (VISA-P-Por) according to specific guidelines, using six steps: Translation, synthesis, back translation, expert committee review, pretesting (n = 10), and appraisal of the adaptation process. The resulting VISA-P-Por was then subjected to an analysis of the psychometric properties (construct validity, reproducibility [agreement and reliability], internal consistency and floor and ceiling effects) in 73 patellar tendinopathy patients and 73 asymptomatic people. Participants completed the questionnaire at baseline and after a minimum interval of 48 hours.

Results The Visa-P-Por questionnaire revealed a high level of agreement, presenting semantic and content validity. Construct validity showed differences between both groups (p < 0,001) and the questionnaire exhibited very good internal consistency, with an excellent α Cronbach (0,91). Concerning reproducibility, agreement levels were considered optimal which can be proven by the Bland Altman graph, the standard error of measurement (5,74) and the minimally important change (15,91 points), as well as the excellent ICC value (0,92). There were no ceiling and floor effects detected.

Conclusion The VISA-P-Por questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool, with psychometric properties comparable with the original version. Thus, it can be recommended as a robust tool for measuring clinical severity and functional impact of patellar tendinopathy in Portuguese-speaking (Portugal) patients.
Non-adhesion to therapy in the elderly, in Tábua
Authors: Campos M , Balteiro J , Rocha C
Published: June 2020

Introduction Most medicines are taken by the elderly because they suffer natural changes, which lead to chronic and degenerative diseases. Older people often have increasingly complex medication regimens, which may lead to errors with dosing and administration and to non-adherence to therapy. Non-adherence to therapy leads to a decrease in therapeutic efficacy, an increase in morbidity, suffering, and health costs. It is influenced by several factors that can and should be driven to improve health status.

Objectives The objective of this study was to determine and evaluate the medication regimen complexity in an elderly population, in Tábua, and verify its relation with adherence to therapy.

Methodology Surveys were applied to elderly people in order to collect the medication data. The study lasted for 5 months and took place at a pharmacy (n = 337). Only people with ≥65 years were included. Medication regimen complexity was assessed using the Brazilian translation for the Medication Regimen Complexity Index (MRCI) and adhesion to therapy was measured by MAT scale. Data was analysed with SPSS statistical program, version 24.0.

Results Our study showed a high percentage of adhesion to therapy (65%) and also of polypharmacy among the elderly (84,9%). Most medication that elderly take belong to the cardiovascular system pharmaceutical group (94,1%). Still, people described some difficulties to adhesion to therapy, mainly forgetfulness (73,66%). Data also revealed that individuals with more literacy and those who are not under polypharmacy showed more adherence to therapy (p = 0.000 and p = 0.012). The most significant result from our study was that MRCI and non-adherence are correlated statistically, that is, a higher MRCI leads to an increase in non-adherence to therapy (p = 0.001).

Conclusion Healthcare professionals should be aware that high levels of medication regimen complexity suggest bad outcomes and non-adherence to therapy. They should assist the elderly, help avoid errors, and find solutions to improve adherence to therapy, whenever possible.
Self-medication practice in different contexts: higher education students vs. users of an interior pharmacy
Authors: Vintém M , Rocha C , Balteiro J
Published: June 2020

Introduction Self-medication is a common practice these days and is influenced by many factors, such as education, family, society, availability of medications and exposure to advertisements. This practice should be done responsibly for relief and treatment of brief and non-serious health conditions. Its irresponsible use can create risks to the individual’s health.

Objectives This work aims to evaluate the knowledge about self-medication on higher education students, and on a village population located at the interior of the Portugal central region, in order to verify if health education and school level influence the behaviours how self-medication is done.

Methodology An observational study was carried out at the Coimbra Health School (ESTeSC), and at a Pharmacy in a rural village, with a questionnaire done between March and May 2019. In this study 430 individuals contributed, of which 223 were enrolled in ESTeSC and 207 were Pharmacy’s customers.

Results At the sample, female students (88.8%) predominated, with an average age of 20 years old. From the results collected at the Pharmacy’s customers, female individuals predominated (65.7%). From the overall, 75.8% indicated that they self-medicated in the last 6 months (170 individuals from ESTeSC and 156 from pharmacy) mainly for Flu/Cold symptoms (38.8%). Analgesics and antipyretics predominates self-medication with 36.3% and 41.06% (ESTeSC and Pharmacy, respectively). They further stated that self-medication is acceptable in some circumstances.

Conclusion We can conclude that regarding to self-medication practice, individuals increasingly look out to treat their symptoms without seeking medical advice, as it is faster and cheaper. Therefore, pharmacy professionals must educate population about benefits and risks of self-medication. These professionals have an important role at the self-medication risks prevention, sharing information, therapeutic guidance and population education.
The NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery App in healthy aging and cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Marques-Costa C , Pinho M S , Simões M R , Prieto G
Published: June 2020

Introduction There has been a significant increase in average life expectancy. This increase brought more focus on aging with more health, autonomy and independence. Among current public health concerns, the detection of cognitive decline in older individuals stands out, namely in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Accurate, brief, practical and automated measures are needed to assess cognitive function throughout the life-span. Since 2015, there is the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) app that meets these requirements and assesses the neurocognitive subdomains of attention, episodic memory, executive function, language, processing speed, and working memory. The European Portuguese app, developed by our team, will be validated for the Portuguese older adults.

Objectives The aim is presenting a literature review of the use of NIHTB-CB in healthy aging and cognitive decline in MCI and AD.

Methodology Advanced search in the databases of Web of Science and Google Scholar for studies published between 2016-2019, including articles and meeting abstracts with the words: NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery, AD, MCI, Elder or Senior or Older.

Results According to the studies reviewed, NIHTB-CB may be useful in memory clinics (e.g.Hackett et al, 2018; Mayeda et al. 2018); clinical trials (e.g.Buckley et al., 2017; Parsey, Bagger & Hanson, 2019); and healthy aging (e.g.Scott, Sorell, & Benitez, 2019). Preliminary results of the ARMADA study (Weintraub et al, 2019) with people with more than 85 years old became available showing that generally, NIHTB-CB is well accepted, also in MCI patients. No difficulties were found in the use of the iPad with older adults.

Conclusion NIHTB-CB measures provide a valid assessment of neurocognitive domains that are important in healthy aging, MCI and AD. As the studies are still scarce, more research is needed.
Current Point-of-Care testing in cancer and future perspectives: a systematic review
Authors: Rodrigues M , Andrade I , Cruz R
Published: June 2020

Introduction Cancer is the most prevalent disease worldwide, causing a major impact on society. Early detection and monitorization of the tumour can provide a more effective treatment. Point-of-care (POC) testing allows the patient to have a handheld test that gives the results rapidly. No expertise or special knowledge is required which is vital namely when carried out in low-resource areas. Recent studies analysed established and emerging biomarkers and how to incorporate them into POC devices, but a systematic review reporting the existing POC platforms for cancer is still not available.

Objectives This systematic review aims to report current and recent advances for point-of-care testing in cancer.

Methodology A literature review was conducted through research in the databases “PubMed” and “B-On” for relevant reviews published in the last ten years, using the keywords “Point-of-care testing” AND “Cancer” AND “Rapid Test” AND “Cancer detection”.

Results In 2015 there were eight commercially available POC tests for prostate, bladder, colorectal, cervical, HPV-causing head and neck cancer, liver, breast and lung cancer. After 2018 a small number of POC devices were tested in screening programs and multicentric studies, and more recently, promising novel POC prototypes for early detection of cancer, namely a 3D prototype micro device for multiple singleplex RNA expression analysis in liver cancer and a POC microscopy prototype for digital diagnostics of breast cancer lymph node metastases, with potential to be used in resource-limited settings.

Conclusion The use of POC testing can deliver accurate, fast results, and in the case of cancer it is no exception, contributing to the progression of treatment and reduction in cancer-related deaths. In low-resource settings a POC test is fundamental and it should be simple and low-cost. But there are limitations in the tests which is a challenge for improvement and investigation in the future.