bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LncRNA THRIL is upregulated in sepsis and sponges miR-19a to upregulate TNF-α in human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Liu Tao , Liu Jingbin , Tian Chunhua , Wang Hongyuan , Wen Min , Yan Mingyu
Published: September 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to play critical roles in various diseases. Our bioinformatics analysis showed that lncRNA TNFα and heterogenous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (hnRNPL) related immunoregulatory LincRNA (THRIL) may interact with miR-19a, which targets TNF-α. This study aimed to explore the role of THRIL, an enhancer of LPS-induced inflammatory, in sepsis.

Methods

Research subjects of the present study included 66 sepsis patients and 66 healthy volunteers. The expression levels of THRIL, miR-19a and TNF-α in plasma samples from these participants were determined by RT-qPCR. The interaction between THRIL and miR-19a was explored by performing overexpression experiments in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEpCs). The roles of THRIL, miR-19a and TNF-α in regulating the apoptosis of HBEpCs were analyzed by cell apoptosis assay.

Results

We found that THRIL was upregulated in sepsis patients. THRIL is predicted to interact with miR-19a, and the interaction was confirmed by dual-luciferase activity assay. However, THRIL and miR-19a did not affect the expression of each other. Instead, overexpression of THRIL resulted in the increased expression levels of TNF-α, a downstream target of miR-19a in HBEpCs. In HBEpCs, LPS treatment induced the overexpression of THRIL. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that overexpression of THRIL and TNF-α promoted the apoptosis of HBEpCs induced by LPS, while overexpression of miR-19a played an opposite role. Overexpression of THRIL attenuated the effects of overexpression of miR-19a.

Conclusion

Therefore, THRIL is upregulated in sepsis and may sponge miR-19a to upregulate TNF-α, thereby promoting lung cell apoptosis.
Thrombotic events following tocilizumab therapy in critically ill COVID-19 patients: a Façade for prognostic markers
Authors: Atallah Bassam , El Nekidy Wasim , Mallah Saad I. , Cherfan Antoine , AbdelWareth Laila , Mallat Jihad , Hamed Fadi
Published: September 2020

Background

Hospitals in the Middle East Gulf region have experienced an influx of COVID-19 patients to their medical wards and intensive care units. The hypercoagulability of these patients has been widely reported on a global scale. However, many of the experimental treatments used to manage the various complications of COVID-19 have not been widely studied in this context. The effect of the current treatment protocols on patients’ diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers may thus impact the validity of the algorithms adopted.

Case presentation

In this case series, we report four cases of venous thromboembolism and 1 case of arterial thrombotic event, in patients treated with standard or intensified prophylactic doses of unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin at our institution. Tocilizumab has been utilized as an add-on therapy to the standard of care to treat patients with SARS-CoV-2 associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, in order to dampen the hyperinflammatory response. It is imperative to be aware that this drug may be masking the inflammatory markers (e.g. IL6, CRP, fibrinogen, and ferritin), without reducing the risk of thrombotic events in this population, creating instead a façade of an improved prognostic outcome. However, the D-dimer levels remained prognostically reliable in these cases, as they were not affected by the drug and continued to be at the highest level until event occurrence.

Conclusions

In the setting of tocilizumab therapy, traditional prognostic markers of worsening infection and inflammation, and thus potential risk of acute thrombosis, should be weighed carefully as they may not be reliable for prognosis and may create a façade of an improved prognostic outcome instead. Additionally, the fact that thrombotic events continued to be observed despite decrease in inflammatory markers and the proactive anticoagulative approach adopted, raises more questions about the coagulative mechanisms at play in COVID-19, and the appropriate management strategy.
Clinical study on primary screening of oral cancer and precancerous lesions by oral cytology
Authors: Sukegawa Shintaro , Ono Sawako , Nakano Keisuke , Takabatake Kiyofumi , Kawai Hotaka , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Furuki Yoshihiko
Published: September 2020

Background

This study was conducted to compare the histological diagnostic accuracy of conventional oral-based cytology and liquid-based cytology (LBC) methods.

Methods

Histological diagnoses of 251 cases were classified as negative (no malignancy lesion, inflammation, or mild/moderate dysplasia) and positive [severe dysplasia/carcinoma in situ (CIS) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)]. Cytological diagnoses were classified as negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM), oral low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (OLSIL), oral high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (OHSIL), or SCC. Cytological diagnostic results were compared with histology results.

Results

Of NILM cytology cases, the most frequent case was negative [LBC n = 50 (90.9%), conventional n = 22 (95.7%)]. Among OLSIL cytodiagnoses, the most common was negative (LBC n = 34; 75.6%, conventional n = 14; 70.0%). Among OHSIL cytodiagnoses (LBC n = 51, conventional n = 23), SCC was the most frequent (LBC n = 31; 60.8%, conventional n = 7; 30.4%). Negative cases were common (LBC n = 13; 25.5%, conventional n = 14; 60.9%). Among SCC cytodiagnoses SCC was the most common (LBC n = 16; 88.9%, conventional n = 14; 87.5%). Regarding the diagnostic results of cytology, assuming OHSIL and SCC as cytologically positive, the LBC method/conventional method showed a sensitivity of 79.4%/76.7%, specificity of 85.1%/69.2%, false-positive rate of 14.9%/30.7%, and false-negative rate of 20.6%/23.3%.

Conclusions

LBC method was superior to conventional cytodiagnosis methods. It was especially superior for OLSIL and OHSIL. Because of the false-positive and false-negative cytodiagnoses, it is necessary to make a comprehensive diagnosis considering the clinical findings.
Incorporators, Early Investors, and Learners: a longitudinal study of organizational adaptation during EBP implementation and sustainment
Authors: Lengnick-Hall Rebecca , Willging Cathleen E. , Hurlburt Michael S. , Aarons Gregory A.
Published: September 2020

Background

The majority of literature on evidence-based practice (EBP) adaptation focuses on changes to clinical practices without explicitly addressing how organizations must adapt to accommodate a new EBP. This study explores the process of organizational—rather than EBP—adaptation during implementation and sustainment. To the authors’ knowledge, there are no previous implementation studies that focus on organizational adaptation in this way.

Methods

This analysis utilizes a case study approach to examine longitudinal qualitative data from 17 community-based organizations (CBOs) in one state and seven county-based child welfare systems. The CBOs had sustained a child-neglect intervention EBP (SafeCare®) for 2 to 10 years. The unit of analysis was the organization, and each CBO represented a case. Organizational-level profiles were created to describe the organizational adaptation process.

Results

Three organizational-level adaptation profiles were identified as follows: incorporators (n= 7), early investors (n= 6), and learners (n= 4). Incorporators adapted by integrating SafeCare into existing operations to meet contractual or EBP fidelity requirements. Early Investors made substantial organizational adaptations during the early implementation period, then operated relatively consistently as the EBP became embedded in the organization and service system. Learners were characterized by steady and continuous attention to new ways that the organization could adapt to support the EBP.

Conclusion

The profiles demonstrated that there can be multiple effective paths to EBP sustainment. Organizational adaptation was calibrated to fit a CBO’s operations (e.g., size of the program) and immediate environmental constraints (e.g., funding levels). Additionally, organizations fulfilled different functional roles in the network of entities involved in EBP implementation. Knowing organizational roles and adaptation profiles can guide implementation planning and help to structure contract designs that bridge the outer (system) and inner (organizational) contexts. Adaptation profiles can also inform the intensity of the implementation strategy tailoring process and the way that strategies are marketed to organizations.
Reverse augmentation technique in hip revision arthroplasty: a new strategy for the management of acetabular reconstruction
Authors: Götze Christian , Peterlein Christian-Dominik
Published: September 2020

Background

The principle of acetabular total hip revision (THR) is based on acetabular reconstruction and restoration of the center of rotation. The use of augmentation in high cranial acetabular defects combined with a cementless revision shell was studied sufficiently. This study aimed to report a case with the use of an augment inside a cementless revision shell as a reverse augmentation technique.

Methods

We describe the case of an 86-year-old female patient with a massive acetabular defect during second revision for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Two problems occurred: (1) a fixed cemented stem with a nonmodular head size of 33 mm and (2) a high acetabular defect with an elevated rotation center.

Results

With the distraction technique, allograft filling was used to reconstruct the acetabular defect. A cementless revision shell (REDAPT, Smith and Nephew) with a size of 78 mm was used to stabilize the defect. Locking screws placed cranially and distally were used to stabilize the cup for secondary osseointegration. An augment was placed inside the cup to reconstruct the rotation center. A customized polyethylene liner (outer diameter, 54 mm/inner diameter, 33 mm) was positioned below the augment in the revision cup to reconstruct the center of rotation. An 18-month postoperative X-ray analysis showed a stable construct with full secondary osseointegration.

Conclusion

This is the first report of an augment used for a reverse technique inside a cementless shell to restore the center of rotation with the use of a customized polyethylene liner. This might be a reliable option for reconstruction of the center of rotation in large cementless revision cups in acetabular Paprosky type III defects. This technical note shows the possibility of using an augment as a reverse technique in a cementless revision cup.
Analysis of two minimally invasive procedures for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with intravertebral cleft: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Hongyu , Dong Chunke , Zhu Yuting , Ma Haoning
Published: September 2020

Background

A systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the pros and cons of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) versus kyphoplasty (PKP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) with intravertebral cleft (IVC) including all available evidence from controlled trials.

Methods

Databases including Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data were searched to identify relevant studies comparing PVP and PKP for OVCFs with IVC. The outcomes mainly included visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), local kyphotic angle (LKA), rate of vertebral height (VH%), and adverse events.

Results

Nine studies enrolling 688 patients were eligible for meta-analysis. The results indicated no significant differences between the two groups in the short-and long-term VAS, ODI, LKA, or VH% (P > 0.05). Compared with PVP, PKP was associated with significantly longer operation time (P < 0.05), higher cost (P > 0.05), and more injected cement volume (P < 0.05). In terms of adverse events, PKP has a lower risk of cement leakage (P < 0.05), while with no significant difference in adjacent-level fracture rates (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The two procedures have similar short- and long-term pain relief, functional recovery, local kyphosis correction, and vertebral height maintenance in OVCFs with IVC. PKP is superior to PVP for the injected cement volume, and lower cement leakage rate, however, with longer operation time, more fluoroscopy times, and higher cost. Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) should be conducted to confirm these results.
A mobile app using therapeutic exercise and education for self-management in patients with hand rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez-Laulhé Pablo , Luque-Romero Luis Gabriel , Blanquero Jesús , Suero-Pineda Alejandro , Biscarri-Carbonero Ángela , Barrero-García Francisco José , Heredia-Rizo Alberto Marcos
Published: September 2020

Background

Therapeutic exercise is a safe and cost-effective approach to alleviate hand rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-related symptoms. This study aims to investigate the differences in self-management between a smartphone app (CareHand), using hand exercises and educational advices, compared with a standard approach, on hand overall function, pain intensity, stiffness, and grip and pinch strength in patients with hand RA.

Methods

The project is a prospective, longitudinal, superiority, randomized controlled trial. Fifty-eight participants with hand RA will be randomly assigned into an experimental group (CareHand app) or a control group (conventional treatment). Control intervention involves a paper sheet with exercises and recommendations, and the experimental group includes the use of a smartphone app, which provides individualized exercise programs, self-management, and educational strategies to promote adherence to treatment. Both intervention protocols will last for 3 months. The principal investigator will conduct an educational session at baseline for all participants. Primary outcome comprises the overall hand function, assessed with the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ). Secondary outcomes include self-reported functional ability with the Quick DASH questionnaire, self-reported pain intensity and morning stiffness using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and hand grip and pinch strength (dynamometer). Outcome measures will be collected at baseline, and at 1 month and 3-month follow-up.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the effectiveness of a tele-rehabilitation tool, which uses exercise and self-management strategies, compared to a conventional approach, in patients with hand RA. The smartphone app will allow to monitor the patient’s status and to enhance patient-therapist communication. Some limitations may be related to the short follow-up duration and the lack of evaluation of psychosocial factors. Overall, this new way of promoting long-term effects in patients with a chronic rheumatic disease could be feasible and easy to implement in daily life clinical practice and current musculoskeletal care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04263974. Registered on 7 March 2020. Date of last update 15 April 2020. Ethics committee code: PI_RH_2018.
Incompletely observed: niche estimation for six frequent European horsefly species (Diptera, Tabanoidea, Tabanidae)
Authors: Dörge Dorian D. , Cunze Sarah , Klimpel Sven
Published: September 2020

Background

More than 170 species of tabanids are known in Europe, with many occurring only in limited areas or having become very rare in the last decades. They continue to spread various diseases in animals and are responsible for livestock losses in developing countries. The current monitoring and recording of horseflies is mainly conducted throughout central Europe, with varying degrees of frequency depending on the country. To the detriment of tabanid research, little cooperation exists between western European and Eurasian countries.

Methods

For these reasons, we have compiled available sources in order to generate as complete a dataset as possible of six horsefly species common in Europe. We choseHaematopota pluvialis,Chrysops relictus,C. caecutiens,Tabanus bromius,T. bovinusandT. sudeticusas ubiquitous and abundant species within Europe. The aim of this study is to estimate the distribution, land cover usage and niches of these species. We used a surface-range envelope (SRE) model in accordance with our hypothesis of an underestimated distribution based on Eurocentric monitoring regimes.

Results

Our results show that all six species have a wide range in Eurasia, have a broad climatic niche and can therefore be considered as widespread generalists. Areas with modelled habitat suitability cover the observed distribution and go far beyond these. This supports our assumption that the current state of tabanid monitoring and the recorded distribution significantly underestimates the actual distribution. Our results show that the species can withstand extreme weather and climatic conditions and can be found in areas with only a few frost-free months per year. Additionally, our results reveal that species prefer certain land-cover environments and avoid other land-cover types.

Conclusions

The SRE model is an effective tool to calculate the distribution of species that are well monitored in some areas but poorly in others. Our results support the hypothesis that the available distribution data underestimate the actual distribution of the surveyed species.
Anopheles metabolic proteins in malaria transmission, prevention and control: a review
Authors: Adedeji Eunice Oluwatobiloba , Ogunlana Olubanke Olujoke , Fatumo Segun , Beder Thomas , Ajamma Yvonne , Koenig Rainer , Adebiyi Ezekiel
Published: September 2020

The increasing resistance to currently available insecticides in the malaria vector, Anopheles mosquitoes, hampers their use as an effective vector control strategy for the prevention of malaria transmission. Therefore, there is need for new insecticides and/or alternative vector control strategies, the development of which relies on the identification of possible targets in Anopheles. Some known and promising targets for the prevention or control of malaria transmission exist among Anopheles metabolic proteins. This review aims to elucidate the current and potential contribution of Anopheles metabolic proteins to malaria transmission and control. Highlighted are the roles of metabolic proteins as insecticide targets, in blood digestion and immune response as well as their contribution to insecticide resistance and Plasmodium parasite development. Furthermore, strategies by which these metabolic proteins can be utilized for vector control are described. Inhibitors of Anopheles metabolic proteins that are designed based on target specificity can yield insecticides with no significant toxicity to non-target species. These metabolic modulators combined with each other or with synergists, sterilants, and transmission-blocking agents in a single product, can yield potent malaria intervention strategies. These combinations can provide multiple means of controlling the vector. Also, they can help to slow down the development of insecticide resistance. Moreover, some metabolic proteins can be modulated for mosquito population replacement or suppression strategies, which will significantly help to curb malaria transmission.
Thai version of the foot function index: a cross-cultural adaptation with reliability and validity evaluation
Authors: Bovonsunthonchai Sunee , Thong-On Suthasinee , Vachalathiti Roongtiwa , Intiravoranont Warinda , Suwannarat Sarawut , Smith Richard
Published: September 2020

Background

The study aimed to translate the foot function index (FFI) questionnaire to Thai and to determine psychometric properties of the questionnaire among individuals with plantar foot complaints.

Methods

The Thai version of the FFI (FFI-Th) was adapted according to a forward and backward translation protocol by two independent translators and analyzed by a linguist and a committee. The FFI-Th was administered among 49 individuals with plantar foot complaints to determine internal consistency, reliability, and validity. Cronbach’s alpha and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC3,1) were used to test the internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The Principal Component Analysis with varimax rotation method was used to test the factor structure and construct validity. Furthermore, the criterion validity was tested using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (rp) between the FFI-Th and the visual analogue pain scale (pain-VAS) as well as the EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L).

Results

The FFI-Th showed good to excellent internal consistency and test-retest reliability in the total score, pain, disability, and activity limitation subscales. The Principal Component Analysis produced 4 principal factors from the FFI-Th items. Criterion validity of the FFI-Th total score showed moderate to strong correlations with pain-VAS and EQ-5D-5L, and EQ-VAS scores.

Conclusion

The FFI-Th was a reliable and valid questionnaire to assess the foot function in a Thai population.

Trial registration

NCT03161314 (08/05/2017).
Correction to: Yttrium-90 radioembolization as a possible new treatment for brain cancer: proof of concept and safety analysis in a canine model
Authors: Pasciak Alexander S. , Manupipatpong Sasicha , Hui Ferdinand K. , Gainsburg Larry , Krimins Rebecca , Zink M. Christine , Brayton Cory F. , Morris Meaghan , Sage Jaime , Donahue Danielle R. , Dreher Matthew R. , Kraitchman Dara L. , Weiss Clifford R.
Published: September 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Emergency demand response in edge computing
Authors: Song Zhaoyan , Zhou Ruiting , Zhao Shihan , Qin Shixin , Lui John C.S. , Li Zongpeng
Published: September 2020

A cloudlet is a small-scale cloud datacenter deployed at the network edge to support mobile applications in proximity with low latency. While an individual cloudlet operates on moderate power, cloudlet clusters are well-suited candidates for emergency demand response (EDR) scenarios due to substantial electricity consumption and job elasticity: mobile workloads in the edge often exhibit elasticity in their execution. To efficiently carry out edge EDR via cloudlet cluster control, two fundamental problems need to be addressed: how to incentivize the participation of cloudlet clusters and how to schedule and allocate workloads in each cluster to satisfy EDR requirements. We propose a two-stage control scheme, consisting of (i) an auction mechanism to motivate clusters’ voluntary energy reduction and select participants with the minimum social cost and (ii) an online task scheduling algorithm for chosen clusters to dispatch workloads to guarantee target EDR power reduction. Using the primal-dual optimization theory, we prove that our control scheme is truthful, individually rational, runs in polynomial time, and achieves near-optimal performance. Large-scale simulation studies based on real-world data also confirm the efficiency and superiority of our scheme over state-of-the-art algorithms.
Delineation of molecular findings by whole-exome sequencing for suspected cases of paediatric-onset mitochondrial diseases in the Southern Chinese population
Authors: Tsang Mandy H.Y. , Kwong Anna K.Y. , Chan Kate L.S. , Fung Jasmine L.F. , Yu Mullin H.C. , Mak Christopher C.Y. , Yeung Kit-San , Rodenburg Richard J.T. , Smeitink Jan A.M. , Chan Rachel , Tsoi Thomas , Hui Joannie , Wong Shelia S.N , Tai Shuk-Mui , Chan Victor C.M. , Ma Che-Kwan , Fung Sharon T.H. , Wu Shun-Ping , Chak W.K. , Chung Brian H.Y. , Fung Cheuk-Wing
Published: September 2020

Background

Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders characterized by defects in oxidative phosphorylation. Since clinical phenotypes of MDs may be non-specific, genetic diagnosis is crucial for guiding disease management. In the current study, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed for our paediatric-onset MD cohort of a Southern Chinese origin, with the aim of identifying key disease-causing variants in the Chinese patients with MDs.

Methods

We recruited Chinese patients who had paediatric-onset MDs and a minimum mitochondrial disease criteria (MDC) score of 3. Patients with positive target gene or mitochondrial DNA sequencing results were excluded. WES was performed, variants with population frequency ≤ 1% were analysed for pathogenicity on the basis of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines.

Results

Sixty-six patients with pre-biopsy MDC scores of 3–8 were recruited. The overall diagnostic yield was 35% (23/66). Eleven patients (17%) were found to have mutations in MD-related genes, with COQ4 having the highest mutation rate owing to the Chinese-specific founder mutation (4/66, 6%). Twelve patients (12/66, 18%) had mutations in non-MD-related genes: ATP1A3 (n = 3, two were siblings), ALDH5A1, ARX, FA2H, KCNT1, LDHD, NEFL, NKX2-2, TBCK, and WAC.

Conclusions

We confirmed that the COQ4:c.370G>A, p.(Gly124Ser) variant, was a founder mutation among the Southern Chinese population. Screening for this mutation should therefore be considered while diagnosing Chinese patients suspected to have MDs. Furthermore, WES has proven to be useful in detecting variants in patients suspected to have MDs because it helps to obtain an unbiased and precise genetic diagnosis for these diseases, which are genetically heterogeneous.
Single-institution cross-sectional study to evaluate need for information and need for referral to psychooncology care in association with depression in brain tumor patients and their family caregivers
Authors: Reinert Christiane , Gerken Michael , Rathberger Katharina , Krueger Katharina , Klinkhammer-Schalke Monika , Lindberg-Scharf Patricia , Koelbl Oliver , Proescholdt Martin A. , Riemenschneider Markus J. , Pukrop Tobias , Bumes Elisabeth , Hutterer Markus , Hau Peter
Published: September 2020

Background

The prognosis of patients with brain tumors is widely varying. Psychooncologic need and depression are high among these patients and their family caregivers. However, the need for counselling and need for referral to psychooncology care is often underestimated.

Methods

We performed a single-institution cross-sectional study to evaluate psychooncologic need, depression and information need in both patients and their family caregivers. The Hornheider Screening Instrument (HSI) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to evaluate psychooncologic need and depression, and a study-specific questionnaire was developed to evaluate information need. Multivariable analyses were performed to detect correlations.

Results

A total of 444 patients and their family caregivers were approached to participate, with a survey completion rate of 35.4%. More than half of the patients and family caregivers were in need for referral to psychooncology care and 31.9% of patients suffered from clinically relevant depression. In multivariable analysis, psychooncologic need were positively associated with mild (odds ratio, OR, 7.077; 95% confidence interval, CI, 2.263–22.137; p = 0.001) or moderate to severe (OR 149.27, 95% CI 26.690–737.20; p <  0.001) depression. Patient information need was associated with depression (OR 3.007, 95% CI 1.175–7.695; p = 0.022).

Conclusions

Unmet counselling need in brain tumor patients and their family caregivers associate to high psychooncologic need and depression. Adequate information may decrease the need for referral to psychooncology care and treatment of depression in these patients. Future studies should further explore these relations to promote development of supportive structures.
An imaging and spectroscopic methodology for in situ analysis of ceiling and wall decorations in Colonial missions in Northern Mexico from XVII to XVIII centuries
Authors: Casanova-González Edgar , Maynez-Rojas Miguel Ángel , Mitrani Alejandro , Rangel-Chávez Isaac , García-Bucio María Angélica , Ruvalcaba-Sil José Luis , Muñoz-Alcócer Karla
Published: September 2020

Almost three hundred Spanish colonial missions—or their remains—are scattered over the vast state of Chihuahua in northern Mexico. A few of them still display painted decorations on the wood ceilings and walls. The decorated areas vary greatly, from the whole ceiling of the main aisle to just a few square meters in a lateral chapel, and so does the conservation state of the paintings. In this context, the information regarding the paintings’ composition plays a key role in the restoration and conservation processes. For the gathering of such information, we propose a combined methodology for a fast, non-destructive and non-invasive characterization of such paintings with a minimum of techniques. This methodology includes false color infrared imaging as a first approach to determine the composition of large areas of the paintings and the homogeneity of the materials used in the painted areas, followed by small area analysis by X-ray fluorescence and fiber-optics reflectance spectroscopy. This methodology was applied to characterize the elemental and molecular composition of the decorations for four missions in Chihuahua in a fast and specific manner, revealing the use of a mix of mineral and organic materials including indigo and cochineal, and detecting differences between the missions. The methodology presented here can be easily applied for the study of a wider number of missions in Chihuahua and other regions to provide outstanding information of materials, pictorial techniques and deterioration conditions.
Understanding intrinsic challenges to STEM instructional practices for Chinese teachers based on their beliefs and knowledge base
Authors: Dong Yan , Wang Jing , Yang Yunying , Kurup Premnadh M.
Published: September 2020

Background

China has great student participation in STEM education. Chinese society has a progressive and positive attitude towards STEM as it is considered to provide more opportunities in life. Teachers play a vital role in the success of any STEM program in K-12 schools. However, teachers are facing instructional challenges because of the interdisciplinary nature of the STEM curriculum and the current typical school structure. The success of the STEM programs depends on teachers’ beliefs and their knowledge in adapting to instructional implementation of STEM concepts.

Results

The data (n = 216) was collected from STEM primary and secondary teachers from 25 provinces in mainland China. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was applied, and Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between Chinese STEM teachers’ beliefs, knowledge, implementation, and the intrinsic challenges of STEM education; t tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed to ascertain whether there were differences. The structural equation model (SEM) was applied to identify interrelationships. The results indicated that Chinese STEM teachers encounter higher-level intrinsic challenges to instructional implementations based on their beliefs and knowledge. Teachers who utilize their experience of teaching science as their main discipline and then attempt to integrate STEM using mathematics and engineering are likely to encounter higher-level intrinsic challenges in implementation.

Conclusion

The intrinsic challenges perceived by Chinese teachers in the practice of STEM education can be predicted by their beliefs and knowledge base. Teachers who understand the nature and pedagogy of STEM education are more likely to encounter lower-level intrinsic challenges of STEM teaching, while teachers who utilize their main discipline when conducting integrated STEM learning activities through modeling based on science, technology, engineering, and mathematical problem situations are more likely to encounter higher-level intrinsic challenges. This study also reveals that there are some significant differences in the level of STEM teachers’ beliefs, knowledge base, instructional practice, and their intrinsic challenges based on their teaching grade, seniority, and experience of STEM training and teaching.
Feasibility and acceptability of a televideo physical activity and nutrition program for recent kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Gibson Cheryl A. , Gupta Aditi , Greene J. Leon , Lee Jaehoon , Mount Rebecca R. , Sullivan Debra K.
Published: September 2020

Background

Post-transplant weight gain affects 50–90% of kidney transplant recipients adversely affecting survival, quality of life, and risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Diet modification and physical activity may help prevent post-transplant weight gain. Methods for effective implementation of these lifestyle modifications are needed. The objective of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a remotely delivered nutrition and physical activity intervention among kidney transplant recipients. Secondary aims were to estimate the effectiveness of the intervention in producing changes in physical activity, qualify of life, fruit and vegetable intake, and consumption of whole grains and water from baseline to 6 months.

Methods

A randomized controlled study for stable kidney transplant recipients between 6 and 12 months post-transplantation was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to a technology-based, lifestyle modification program (intervention) or to enhanced usual care (control).

Results

The first 10 kidney transplant recipients screened were eligible and randomized into the intervention and control groups with no significant between-group differences at baseline. Health coaching attendance (78%) and adherence to reporting healthy behaviors (86%) were high. All participants returned for final assessments. The weight in controls remained stable, while the intervention arm showed weight gain at 3 and 6 months. Improvements were found for physical activity, quality of life, and fruit and vegetable intake in both groups. All participants would recommend the program to other transplant recipients.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that a remotely delivered televideo nutrition and physical activity intervention is feasible and valued by patients. These findings will aid in the development of a larger, more prescriptive, randomized trial to address weight gain prevention.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT03697317. Retrospectively registered on October 5, 2018.
Assessment of cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials in migraine patients
Authors: Elmoazen Doaa , Kozou Hesham , Mekky Jaidaa , Ghanem Dalia
Published: September 2020

Background

Patients suffering from vestibular migraine (VM) are known to have various vestibular test abnormalities interictally and ictally. Recently, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) have become accepted as a valid method for otolith function assessment. Many studies have identified various vestibular symptoms and laboratory abnormalities in migraineurs. Since migraineurs with no accompanying vestibular symptoms might exhibit subclinical vestibular dysfunction, we investigated vestibular function using ocular and cervical VEMPs in migraine patients. The aim was to study cervical VEMP and occular VEMP in migraineurs with and without vestibular symptoms interictally.

Results

Migraine and VM patients showed significantly longer P13 latency of cVEMP compared to controls. A statistically significant cVEMP interaural P13 latency difference was found in VM compared to healthy controls. Cervical VEMP N23 latency, peak-to-peak amplitude, interaural N23 latency, and amplitude asymmetric ratio did not show any significant difference in migraine and VM patients compared to healthy controls as well as no significant difference across the three groups regarding oVEMP parameters.

Conclusions

Abnormal interictal cVEMP results in migraineurs might indicate subclinical vestibulo-collic pathway dysfunction.
Sleep disorders in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder: a pragmatic approach to assessment and management
Authors: Shanahan Paul J. , Isaac Miriam , Blackwell Jane E
Published: September 2020

Sleep is essential for survival and humans spend approximately one-third of their life asleep. Adequate sleep is needed to maintain both physical and psychological health. Routinely getting less than the recommended amount of sleep for your age can have profound negative effects on health, such as increasing the likeliness of psychiatric illness, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke. In children and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders, the prevalence of sleep disorders is significantly higher than in the general population. Given the relationship between sleep and psychiatric disorders, it is essential that psychiatrists have knowledge of the principles of sleep medicine. In this article, we focus on the common sleep disorders found in those with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and give an overview of screening, diagnosis and management.
Photoinduced Healing of Mechanically Robust Polymers
Authors: Li Shuxiu , Wu Zehong , Wang Minghao , Wu Si
Published: September 2020

Healing ability extends the lifetime of polymers. Polymeric materials, which are healable under light irradiation, have attracted a lot of attention. Although optically healable polymers have been extensively investigated, mechanically robust yet optically healable polymers are rare. Two types of mechanically robust yet optically healable polymers are introduced in this Highlight Review: (1) healable supramolecular polymers via photothermal effects; (2) azobenzene-containing polymers with photoinduced reversible solid-to-liquid transitions. The design principles of mechanically robust yet optically healable polymers are introduced. The remaining challenges and perspectives are also discussed.
Novel therapeutic choices in immune aplastic anemia
Authors: Scheinberg Phillip
Published: September 2020

Aplastic anemia (AA) in its severe form has historically been associated with high mortality. With limited supportive care and no effective strategy to reverse marrow failure, most patients diagnosed with severe AA (SAA) died of pancytopenia complications. Since the 1970s, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and immunosuppressive therapy (IST) have changed SAA's natural history by improving marrow function and pancytopenia. Standard IST with horse anti-thymocyte globulin plus cyclosporine produces a hematologic response rate of 60 to 70%. In the long term, about one-third of patients relapse, and 10 to 15% can develop cytogenetic abnormalities. Outcomes with either HSCT or IST are similar, and choosing between these modalities relies on age, availability of a histocompatible donor, comorbidities, and patient preference. The introduction of eltrombopag, a thrombopoietin receptor agonist, improved SAA outcomes as both salvage (second-line) and upfront therapy combined with IST. As a single agent, eltrombopag in doses up to 150 mg daily improved cytopenias in 40 to 50% in those who failed initial IST, which associated with higher marrow cellularity, suggesting a pan-stimulatory marrow effect. When eltrombopag was combined with IST as upfront therapy, overall (about 90%) and complete responses (about 50%) were higher than observed extensively with IST alone of 65% and 10%, respectively. Not surprisingly, given the strong correlation between hematologic response rates and survival in SAA, most (>90%) were alive after a median follow-up of 18 months. Longer follow-up and real-word data continue to confirm the activity of this agent in AA. The use of eltrombopag in different combinations and doses are currently being explored. The activity of another thrombopoietin receptor agonist in AA, romiplostim, suggests a class effect. In the coming years, the mechanisms of their activity and the most optimal regimen are likely to be elucidated.
The application of NPK fertilizer boosts the nutrient uptake status and biomass production of Vernonia amygdalina
Authors: Susanto Dwi , AMIRTA RUDIANTO
Published: September 2020

Abstract. Susanto D, Amirta R. 2020. The application of NPK fertilizer boosts the nutrient uptake status and biomass production of Vernonia amygdalina. Nusantara Bioscience 12: 114-119. Vernonia amygdalina Delile is a medicinal plant introduced in Indonesia. This study aims to determine the nutrients absorption status and growth of V. amygdalina plants planted with a spacing of 1x1 m. The study used a complete randomized block design with NPK compound fertilizer treatment with five doses of fertilizer namely 0 g (without fertilizer) as a control, 40 g, 80 g, 120 g, and 140 g, three blocks each group consisted of 10 plants so that in total there were 150 plants. The results showed that NPK fertilizer increased growth and the biomass of V. amygdalina. The best growth of V. amygdalina plant was achieved in plants applied with 160g per plant NPK fertilizer in which the average of stem diameter and plant height were 6.69 ± 0.930 cm and 611.67 ± 12.71 cm, while the estimated biomass yield was 407 tons.ha-1. The most nutritional elements accumulated in plant biomass was the calcium (1279.49 kg.ha-1), followed by magnesium (1167.0642 kg.ha-1), phosphorus (536.64 kg.ha-1), potassium (419.71 kg.ha-1) and nitrogen (134.4 kg.ha-1). We propose that these base nutrients are highly necessary for the cultivation of V. amygdalina as biomass feedstock or medicine plant.
Avaliação da suscetibilidade associada a atividades de montanha no Parque Nacional da Peneda Gerês. Contribuições para a elaboração de um plano prévio de intervençãoS
Authors: Pereira Jorge Eiras , Costa Artur Fernandes , Santos Mónica Moreira
Published: September 2020

O Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês (PNPG) é o único Parque Nacional português. Ele tem vindo a receber um número crescente de visitantes, facto que os municípios aproveitam para promover o desenvolvimento económico de toda a região. Contudo, a ocorrência de alguns acidentes que resultam em feridos graves e mortos, pode comprometer esse potencial. Este trabalho desenvolve-se no sentido de identificar os perigos existentes no PNPG que têm contribuído para a ocorrência desses acidentes. Para tal, recorreu-se à caraterização das variáveis biofísicas do espaço e à catalogação de ocorrências entre 2006 e 2015. O registo do fluxo de utilizadores do PNPG, a sua caraterização, as tendências do aumento da procura pelo espaço natural e a exposição mediática do tema também merecem a devida consideração neste estudo. Este artigo apresenta algumas conclusões que permitem identificar as principais vulnerabilidades na organização do fluxo dos utilizadores no interior do Parque e na resposta a situações de acidente. Identificam-se fragilidades no registo de afluência e nas ocorrências que se têm vindo a verificar no interior dos seus limites. São identificados desequilíbrios na resposta ao socorro, na área em que se verificam mais ocorrências, com maior distância às vias transitáveis, são cumulativamente, as que apresentam a resposta mais demorada.
Modelação e cenarização de acidentes com matérias perigosas nas infraestruturas de transporte do município de Mortágua
Authors: Rodrigues Daniel Afonso , Reis Johnny , Hermenegildo Carlos
Published: September 2020

O desenvolvimento e o bem-estar das sociedades industrializadas obrigam à inevitável convivência com matérias perigosas. Encontramo-las nos diversos estados físicos, em condições de pressão e temperatura muito distintas, armazenadas dentro de unidades industriais e espaços comerciais com caraterísticas distintas, nas mais variadas vias de comunicação convencionais ou nas condutas de transporte implantadas ao longo do território, contribuindo, significativamente, para a sua dispersão territorial. Este estudo refere-se, exclusivamente, à área do município de Mortágua. Pretendeu-se com ele proceder ao levantamento das infraestruturas que suportam o transporte de matérias perigosas, o tipo de matérias perigosas que nelas circulam e a sua frequência de transporte. Posteriormente, recorreu-seao software ALOHA® para simular a ocorrência de um acidente em cada infraestrutura, motivando três situações distintas: a propagação de uma nuvem tóxica, de uma nuvem inflamável e da radiação térmica provocada por BLEVE ou Jet Fire. Os resultados obtidos confirmam a falta de informação relativa a alguns tipos de transporte de matérias perigosas e, quando existe, não está tratada de forma adequada.
Relembrar o grande incêndio de Lisboa 30 anos depois
Authors: Sá Fernandes Ana , Fidalgo António
Published: September 2020

Embora tenham passado 3 décadas desde o incêndio do Chiado, permanece na memória o trágico dia 25 de agosto de 1988. O incêndio do Chiado veio dar importância a uma lacuna existente nas medidas de proteção contra incêndios em edifícios, sendo um marco importante do ponto de vista técnico, com impacto sociocultural e com implicações futuras. A investigação histórica realizada, demonstrou que esta tragédia pôs a descoberto falhas e necessidades urgentes de legislar a segurança nos edifícios. O incêndio despertou nas autoridades a necessidade de implementar medidas para prevenir novos incêndios com esta magnitude. O Chiado obrigou a uma profunda reflexão crítica sobre a insuficiente legislação, implementação, fiscalização, assim como, a formação e tipo de equipamento utilizado pelos meios de combate.
Review on Crack Initiation and Premature Failures in Bearing Applications
Authors: Vegter Reinder H. , Stadler Kenred
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a review of various root causes for premature bearing macrospalling failure will be presented. Previously, premature failures were often associated with the occurrence of white etching areas, which were seen as the cause of these failures. It has been determined, however, that white etching areas are not limited only to premature failures; they occur in all types of failures during bearing life. A wide range of bearing operation conditions that can lead to rolling contact fatigue, including cracking with the development of white etching areas, has been shown. This is not limited to one specific type of failure or operating condition such as the presence of hydrogen, electrical current passage, overload, or others. The current investigations indicate that premature bearing failure mainly can be linked to two operation conditions, namely stresses higher than anticipated or material strength lower than expected (or a combination of both). A scheme to unravel the complex interactions of bearing steel properties and operating conditions that lead to premature failure will be presented. This scheme is very useful for application analysis and for finding solutions for the cases where premature failures occur. Based on the observations made on premature failures and white etching cracks, a proposal for a crack initiation mechanism at non-metallic inclusions is presented.
Improvements in GCr15 (52100) High Carbon Bearing Steel Steelmaking and Their Effect on Inclusions, Segregation, and Fatigue Properties
Authors: Xu Xiaohong , Liu Jigang , Xu Guoqing , Yin Qing , Zhang Xudong , Munther Hans-Åke
Published: September 2020

Steel cleanliness with regard to nonmetallic inclusions is critical for fatigue properties, and steel homogeneity is important for manufacturing considerations, such as controlling distortion after hardening. The final bearing steel quality is also dependent on the chosen steelmaking processes. In Jiangyin Xingcheng (JYXC), the oxygen content of Ruhrstahl-Heraeus recirculating degasser (RH) degassed steel is around 0.5 ppm lower than tank vacuum degassed steel. There are also fewer MgO-Al2O3 and MgO-Al2O3-CaO inclusions in RH degassed steel. Steel cleanliness improves with an increase in tundish residence time and a decrease of the dead zone ratio. Optimization of the casting parameters such as superheat and the degree of soft reduction will improve the segregation characteristics of the steel. Details of GCr15 (52100) bearing steel properties and the improvements made by JYXC are discussed in this paper.