bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The comparison of dyslipidemia and serum uric acid in patients with gout and asymptomatic hyperuricemia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liang Jing , Jiang Yutong , Huang Yefei , Song Wei , Li Xiaomin , Huang Yulan , Ou Jiayong , Wei Qiujing , Gu Jieruo
Published: March 2020

Background

Dyslipidemia often concurs with hyperuricemia. Our study was to discover different lipid levels of gout and asymptomatic hyperuricemia and the predictors of sUA (serum uric acid) levels.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed to collect demographic, clinical variables, comorbidities and laboratory testing in patients with gout and asymptomatic hyperuricemia. Group comparison was performed with Student’s t-test or Mann Whitney U test for continuous variables and chi-squared tests for categorical variables (Fisher’s exact test where appropriate) and to screen potential risk factors. Correlation of sUA levels with demographic and biochemical variables were performed by using correlation analysis. The variable with s p-value less than 0.20 during the group comparison or clinical relevance was introduced into the stepwise multiple regression model.

Results

Six hundred fifty-three patients with gout and 63 patients with asymptomatic hyperuricemia (> 420 μmol/L in male and > 360 μmol/L in female) were enrolled, including 553 (84.7%) males. The mean age was 47.8 ± 16.0 years old. Elevated total cholesterol (TC) was observed in 173 (26.5%) cases with gout. Increased triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels were observed in 242 (37.1%) cases and 270 (41.3%) cases with gout, individually. In contrast, elevated TC, TG and LDL-C levels were observed in 10 (15.9%) cases, 30 (47.6%) cases and 22 (34.9%) cases with hyperuricemia, individually. Significant differences were found in age, serum creatine, TC and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) between gout and asymptomatic hyperuricemia groups (p < 0.05). In patients with asymptomatic hyperuricemia, 12 (19.0%) patients had hypertension and 5 (7.9%) suffered from coronary heart diseases. Male (B = -112.7, p < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) (B = -60.797, p = 0.013), body mass index (BMI) (B = 5.168, p = 0.024), age (B = -3.475, p = 0.006), age of hyperuricemia onset (B = 2.683, p = 0.032), and serum creatine (B = 0.534, p < 0.001) were predictors of sUA levels in gout patients (adjusted R2 = 28.7%).

Conclusions

Dyslipidemia is more commonly seen in patients with gout, compared to asymptomatic hyperuricemia. HDL-C is a protective predictor of sUA levels in gout.
Tsukushi is essential for the development of the inner ear
Authors: Miwa Toru , Ohta Kunimasa , Ito Naofumi , Hattori Satoko , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Takeo Toru , Nakagata Naomi , Song Wen-Jie , Minoda Ryosei
Published: March 2020

Tsukushi (TSK)—a small, secreted, leucine-rich-repeat proteoglycan—interacts with and regulates essential cellular signaling cascades. However, its functions in the mouse inner ear are unknown. In this study, measurement of auditory brainstem responses, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy revealed that TSK deficiency in mice resulted in the formation of abnormal stereocilia in the inner hair cells and hearing loss but not in the loss of these cells. TSK accumulated in nonprosensory regions during early embryonic stages and in both nonprosensory and prosensory regions in late embryonic stages. In adult mice, TSK was localized in the organ of Corti, spiral ganglion cells, and the stria vascularis. Moreover, loss of TSK caused dynamic changes in the expression of key genes that drive the differentiation of the inner hair cells in prosensory regions. Finally, our results revealed that TSK interacted with Sox2 and BMP4 to control stereocilia formation in the inner hair cells. Hence, TSK appears to be an essential component of the molecular pathways that regulate inner ear development.
Evaluation of Germline Genetic Testing Criteria in a Hospital-Based Series of Women With Breast Cancer
Authors: Yadav Siddhartha , Hu Chunling , Hart Steven N. , Boddicker Nicholas , Polley Eric C. , Na Jie , Gnanaolivu Rohan , Lee Kun Y. , Lindstrom Tricia , Armasu Sebastian , Fitz-Gibbon Patrick , Ghosh Karthik , Stan Daniela L. , Pruthi Sandhya , Neal Lonzetta , Sandhu Nicole , Rhodes Deborah J. , Klassen Christine , Peethambaram Prema P. , Haddad Tufia C. , Olson Janet E. , Hoskin Tanya L. , Goetz Matthew P. , Domchek Susan M. , Boughey Judy C. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Couch Fergus J.
Published: March 2020

PURPOSE

To determine the sensitivity and specificity of genetic testing criteria for the detection of germline pathogenic variants in women with breast cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Women with breast cancer enrolled in a breast cancer registry at a tertiary cancer center between 2000 and 2016 were evaluated for germline pathogenic variants in 9 breast cancer predisposition genes ( ATM , BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, CHEK2, NF1, PALB2, PTEN, and TP53). The performance of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) hereditary cancer testing criteria was evaluated relative to testing of all women as recommended by the American Society of Breast Surgeons.

RESULTS

Of 3,907 women, 1,872 (47.9%) meeting NCCN criteria were more likely to carry a pathogenic variant in 9 predisposition genes compared with women not meeting criteria (9.0% v 3.5%; P < .001). Of those not meeting criteria (n = 2,035), 14 (0.7%) had pathogenic variants in BRCA1 or BRCA2. The sensitivity of NCCN criteria was 70% for 9 predisposition genes and 87% for BRCA1 and BRCA2, with a specificity of 53%. Expansion of the NCCN criteria to include all women diagnosed with breast cancer at ≤ 65 years of age achieved > 90% sensitivity for the 9 predisposition genes and > 98% sensitivity for BRCA1 and BRCA2.

CONCLUSION

A substantial proportion of women with breast cancer carrying germline pathogenic variants in predisposition genes do not qualify for testing by NCCN criteria. Expansion of NCCN criteria to include all women diagnosed at ≤ 65 years of age improves the sensitivity of the selection criteria without requiring testing of all women with breast cancer.
Serum Angiopoietin-like Protein 6, Risk of Type 2 Diabetes, and Response to Hyperglycemia: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fan Kang-Chih , Wu Hung-Tsung , Wei Jung-Nan , Chuang Lee-Ming , Hsu Chih-Yao , Yen I-Weng , Lin Chia-Hung , Lin Mao-Shin , Shih Shyang-Rong , Wang Shu-Huei , Chang Tien-Jyun , Li Hung-Yuan
Published: March 2020

Context

Angiopoietin-like protein 6 (ANGPTL6) is a hepatokine that improves insulin sensitivity in animals. However, serum ANGPTL6 concentration was found to be higher in human participants with diabetes or metabolic syndrome in cross-sectional studies, implying that ANGPTL6 may be induced to counteract hyperglycemia.

Objective

To investigate whether serum ANGPTL6 can predict incident diabetes and explore whether glucose or insulin can regulate ANGPTL6 expression and secretion.

Design

This cohort study included adults without diabetes at baseline who were followed every 2 years for incident diabetes. Serum ANGPTL6 concentrations were measured at baseline and during oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs). A hepatic cell line, HepG2, and diet-induced obesity mouse model were used to evaluate the response of ANGPTL6 expression and secretion to hyperglycemia and the metabolic syndrome.

Results

We recruited 1103 participants without diabetes at baseline. During the 4.22-year follow-up, 113 (10.2%) participants developed incident diabetes. Serum ANGPTL6 was negatively associated with the incidence of diabetes (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.77; P = 0.042). However, serum ANGPTL6 level was higher in participants with prediabetes (P = 0.018) and was elevated during OGTT. In HepG2 cells, treatment with glucose, but not insulin, induced ANGPTL6 expression. Hepatic ANGPTL6 expression and serum ANGPTL6 concentrations were significantly higher in mice fed with a high-fat diet than in those fed with a standard chow (both P < 0.05).

Conclusion

A high serum ANGPTL6 level is associated with a low incidence of diabetes in humans. ANGPTL6 is expressed and secreted in response to hyperglycemia to maintain glucose homeostasis.
Neonatal Macrosomia is an Interfering Factor for Analytes on the Colorado State Newborn Screen
Authors: Wright Erica L , Baker Peter R
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Neonatal macrosomia is a known complication of maternal obesity and gestational diabetes, and it is a risk factor for obesity and diabetes in offspring. Amino acids and acylcarnitines are biomarkers for obesity in children and adults. These analytes, which are also routinely obtained on the newborn screen, have not been well-characterized in macrosomic newborns. The impact of macrosomia on rates of false-positive results in the newborn screen has also not been well-studied. We test the hypothesis that macrosomia is an interfering factor for amino acids and/or acylcarnitines on the newborn screen.

Methods

Newborn screening analytes determined by tandem mass spectroscopy were obtained from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment archives (2016–2018). This included metabolite concentrations obtained at 24–72 hours of life from newborns with birth weight 2500 to 3999 g (nonmacrosomic, n = 131 896) versus 4000 to 8000 g (macrosomic, n = 7806). Mother/infant phenotypic data were limited to information provided on the newborn screening dried blood spot card. Data were analyzed using Student t-test and chi-squared analysis.

Results

Macrosomic newborns had elevations in C2, C3, dicarboxylic, and long-chain acylcarnitines (specifically C16 and C18 species). C3 and C18:1 were 2 to 3 times more likely to be above predetermined state cutoffs in macrosomic versus nonmacrosomic newborns (both male and female).

Main conclusions

Macrosomia is an interfering factor for the analytes C3 and C18:1, leading to higher risk of false-positive results for methylmalonic/propionic acidemia and carnitine palmitoyl transferase type 2 deficiency, respectively. Analyte patterns found in macrosomic neonates correspond with similar analyte patterns in obese children and adults.
Contemporary “Women’s Art in Hong Kong” Reframed
Authors: Lai Linda Chiu-han
Published: March 2020

This article is a report of an ongoing performative research project conducted by the author in the capacity of an experimental historian–cum–fellow artist to the research subjects. Performative research is meant to be deconstructive: enacting the “what-if-we-talk” point of departure, the researcher and her subjects reopen established conclusions and definitions and examine (rules of) inclusions and exclusions in the local art paradigm. The main tasks and methods that form the performative research are (re) naming, inscription, dialogues, and thick description. The author engaged female artists in conversations to solicit their self-portrayal as artists, or not; the importance of womanhood to their life and art making; and their use of feminism. The exchanges with six artists discussed here reveals the complex positions Hong Kong women occupy in sustaining artistic creation and innovation in Hong Kong, which reopens such questions as what is an artist and what is art making. This research supports a picture of art as being more about the process and the here-and-now moment than the final art object. Women’s art as a research framework productively points to a pervading mode of artistic practice that highlights collaboration, networking, and the making of relations, events, and situations. This performative approach also invokes all artists to become theory makers of their own practice.
Μελέτη κίνησης με φωτοπύλες (Arduino) και πρόγραμμα Tracker
Authors: Πατριαρχέα Στεφανία , Τσιάνα Κλειώ , Μανταδάκη Νικολέτα , Κοής–Αναστασιάδης Ανδρέας , Κετσελίδης Κωνσταντίνος , Χέλμης Αλέξανδρος , Νούλας Γιώργος , Παπαϊωάννου Μαρία , Καπρούλια Σωτήρης
Published: March 2020

Η παρούσα εργασία χωρίζεται σε δύο μέρη. Στο πρώτο μέρος περιγράφεται η διαδικασία ανάπτυξης μιας πειραματικής συσκευής αποτελούμενης από αυτοσχέδιες φωτοπύλες και τον μικροεπεξεργαστή Arduino για την μελέτη ευθύγραμμων κινήσεων στο εργαστήριο φυσικών επιστημών του σχολείου μας. Στο δεύτερο μέρος γίνεται η θεωρητική και η πειραματική μελέτη συγκεκριμένων κινήσεων με στόχο την ποιοτική και την ποσοτική περιγραφή εννοιών όπως η ταχύτητα και η επιτάχυνση. Εκτελούμε πειράματα με την πειραματική συσκευή που κατασκευάσαμε στο εργαστήριο, σε συνδυασμό με το πρόγραμμα tracker video analysis για να βγάλουμε χρήσιμα συμπεράσματα για δύο είδη κινήσεων, της ευθύγραμμης ομαλής και την κίνηση της καθόδου μπάλας σε κεκλιμένο επίπεδο.
Τα μεγαλύτερα επιτεύγματα της NASA
Authors: Τσιούτσιου Τατιάνα , Πιτσούνης Κωνσταντίνος
Published: March 2020

Η παρούσα εργασία αναφέρεται στις σημαντικότερες αποστολές και εφευρέσεις της NASA. Ως ο μεγαλύτερος οργανισμός που ασχολείται με το διάστημα έχει επιτελέσει πολύ σημαντικές ανακαλύψεις. Ιδρύθηκε τον Ιούλιο του 1958 με την Πράξη Εθνικής Αεροναυτικής και Διαστήματος και στεγάζεται στην Ουάσιγκτον. Από τις σημαντικότερες αποστολές της είναι το Apollo, το Gemini και οι ρομποτικές της αποστολές στο διάστημα. Επιπρόσθετα ο διαστημικός σταθμός Skylab που τέθηκε σε τροχιά στις HΠΑ και το Διαστημικό Λεωφορείο αποτελούν τις σημαντικότερες διαστημικές επιτυχίες της NASA. Το πρόγραμμα Apollo χρησιμοποιήθηκε για την προσσελήνωση ανθρώπων στο φεγγάρι και την ασφαλή επιστροφή τους στη Γη ενώ το Gemini ήταν η δεύτερη απόπειρα για μια επανδρωμένη αποστολή αφού όλα έδειχναν πως η προσσελήνωση ανθρώπων ήταν εφικτή. Έπειτα από τις επιτυχίες στο φεγγάρι και στον Άρη, η NASA ανέπτυξε ρομπότ για την εξερεύνηση του διαστήματος. Σήμερα η NASA παράλληλα με τα δικά της προγράμματα, συμμετέχει στη λειτουργία του Διεθνούς Διαστημικού Σταθμού (ISS) και συνεργάζεται με πολλά πανεπιστήμια για την ανάπτυξη ρομπότ και την κατάλληλη χρήση τους στο διάστημα.
Kilka uwag w kwestii identyfikacji i leczenia chorób owiec w starożytnym Rzymie
Authors: Bartnik Agnieszka
Published: March 2020

Some Remarks on the Identification and Treatment of Sheep Diseases in Ancient Rome Ancient vets were giving much attention to sheep diseases. By analysing the records of ancient authors, it is possible to identify diseases attacking herds the most frequently. The greatest problem was scabies, which caused huge financial losses. Diseases referred to as pustula, ostigo and lameness, as well as stomach and lung diseases used to be diagnosed in those days as well. Different kinds of physical injuries were also common. Breeders and vets used to apply specialist treatments; however, most of them were ineffective. The greatest successes were achieved in the case of mechanical injuries and scabies.
Correlation between ways of coping and quality of life in Iranian husbands of women with breast cancer
Authors: Shamloo Marzieh Beigom Bigdeli , Nasiri Morteza , Maneiy Mohammad , Kiarsi Maryam , Madmoli Yaghoub
Published: March 2020

Background:

Palliative nursing care provides the best possible quality of life (QoL) for patients who face life-threatening conditions, such as breast cancer, and their families. It seems that coping with breast cancer can affect couples' QoL. Hence, this study aimed to assess the potential role of ways of coping (WOC) in QoL among husbands of women with breast cancer.

Method:

In this cross-sectional study, 150 men whose wives were affected by non-metastatic breast cancer and were at least 4 months post-diagnosis, were recruited. The Persian version of the WOC questionnaire (WOCQ) and the World Health Organization's QoL brief questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF) were used to measure WOC and QoL. ThePearson correlation test was applied to assess bivariate correlation of the variables.

Results:

A significant direct correlation was found between the total WHOQoL-BREF score and all subscales of WOCQ, except escape-avoidance coping (r=−0.017, P=0.830). Most dimensions of the WHOQoL-BREF and WOCQ subscales were correlated significantly and directly. Nevertheless, escape-avoidance coping had a significant indirect correlation with the physical dimension of WHOQoL-BREF (r=−0.220, P=0.007).

Conclusions:

Findings indicated a need for coping-based interventions in palliative nursing to improve QoL in husbands of women with breast cancer.
Tune your game!
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: March 2020

In this article, Jason Ratcliffe discusses the design and testing techniques used in the video game industry to produce a product that a user can understand intuitively. We then look applying some of these methods to developing a clinic product that is easily understood by the client and has been tested appropriately
Tax investigations: why HM Revenue and Customs might investigate a business
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: March 2020

Adam Bernstein delves into the world of tax investigations, explaining the reasons behind HM Revenue and Customs deciding to investigate a business and what business owners can do to minimise the chances of this
Contributing Factors of Secondary Students’ Attitude towards Mathematics Contributing Factors of Attitudes towards Mathematics
Authors: Davadas Shamila Dewi , Lay Yoon Fah
Published: March 2020

The research investigated the effect of socioeconomic status, gender, perceived parental influences, teacher affective support, classroom instruction and previous achievement on students’ attitude towards mathematics. The comparison of these effects was also done between urban and rural school students.  This research employed a cross-sectional quantitative design based on a structural equation modelling approach. The sample consisted of 808 students from ten secondary schools in Sabah, three of which were urban and seven were rural schools. Findings showed positive relationships exist between perceived parental influences (r = .231), teacher affective support (r = .242), classroom instruction (r = .439), and previous achievement (r = .284) with students’ attitude towards mathematics. The multigroup analysis for urban and rural students showed similar results as the whole student group. However, for urban students, classroom instruction (r = 0.352) and previous achievement (r = -0.363) had the greatest impact on attitude towards mathematics. For rural students, the highest impact on attitude towards mathematics was from classroom instruction (r = 0.452) and teacher affective support (r = 0.246). The least impact for both groups was perceived parental influence. This study implied that factors affected students’ attitude towards mathematics in rural and urban secondary students are different
Types of Use of Technologies by Spanish Early Childhood Teachers
Authors: Tena Rosalía Romero , Lopez-Lozano Lidia , Gutierrez Maria Puig
Published: March 2020

Young pupils engage with technology daily, however, the use that preschool teachers make of technologies and their level of digital expertise are largely unknown. The objective of this study was to determine how these teachers make use of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) and the frequency with which they use them, as well as to explore the sociodemographic and professional factors related to the different uses. 477 preschool teachers from Spain took part in a survey. The questionnaire, validated by experts, covered the use of ICT as a teaching-learning tool. Three different analyses were carried out, a principal component analysis and a descriptive analysis to determine the type and intensity of use and a multivariate analysis of variance to explore their relationships with sociodemographic and professional variables. The findings defined eight distinct uses of ICT, which seemed to be related to different factors. Teachers did not employ these technologies openly and consistently in their classrooms, but instead used them for occasional tasks that were administrative and bureaucratic in nature. They manifest a limited ICT use for assessment of pupil and for communication and exchange of ideas, information and materials. Instead, ICT were widely used to prepare classroom work (planning, classroom posters…) and as classroom support as a learning tool (routines, games, to record audios…). Among the studied variables, the more significant were teaching experience and type of centre. We discuss the need to advocate for continuous and comprehensive training on the educational potential of these digital resources.
Discrete Element Modeling of Seed Metering as Affected by Roller Speed and Damping Coefficient
Authors: Guzman Leno J. , Chen Ying , Landry Hubert
Published: March 2020

Abstract. The development of highly efficient seed metering is required to meet the demands of modern seeding equipment. The discrete element method (DEM) was used to simulate metering of seeds with a fluted roller meter. This approach was chosen due to its capability to accurately represent granular material flow. The contact model selected for the DEM simulation was the linear rolling resistance model. Angle of repose experimental tests and simulations were performed to calibrate the rolling friction coefficient for peas. The calibrated value for the rolling friction coefficient was 0.016. A 192 mm cross-section of an air cart seed roller and housing was defined as the domain of the simulation. Sensitivity analysis showed that simulated mass flow rates were not sensitive to the selected damping coefficients (0.2, 0.5, and 0.8). Sensitivity indicator values varied between -0.049 and 0.088 for the range of damping coefficients and roller speeds studied. The simulated geometry of the seed meter and housing resulted in a steady flow of seeds, with discharged mass increasing linearly. The simulated mass flow rates were 34.0, 72.3, 110.4, 147.3, and 182.0 g s-1 for roller speeds of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 rpm, respectively. An experiment was performed to validate the simulation results. The predicted mass flow rate values of the simulation were within 10 g s-1 of the experimental results, with the largest relative error being 16.5%. Keywords: DEM, Damping, Metering, Peas, Rolling friction coefficient, Seed, Simulation.
Analysis and Design of a Spatial Planetary Noncircular Gear Train for Rice Seedling Transplanting Based on Three Given Positions
Authors: Sun Liang , Zhou Yuzhu , Huang Hengmin , Wu Chuanyu , Zhang Guofeng
Published: March 2020

Highlights

A method for solving a spatial transplanting mechanism with noncircular gears is proposed.

A new mechanism for transplanting rice pot seedlings is proposed.

A trajectory with a small lateral displacement at the preparation phase is obtained.

The working performance is validated by simulations and field tests.

Abstract. This study proposes a method of solving the parameters of a spatial planetary gear train with noncircular gears to meet the requirements of wide-narrow row pot seedling transplanting (WPST). First, the planetary gear train was simplified to a spatial open-chain 2R mechanism (planetary carrier). A kinematic model of the 2R mechanism was derived from the three given homogeneous matrices describing the spatial position and attitude information of grasping, extracting, and planting seedlings. Second, the length of each link, attitude of each rotation axis, and relative initial angles were calculated. The model for solving the transmission ratio was deduced. A spatial planetary gear train configuration with a single planet carrier and two-stage driving was derived, in which the middle axis could be determined by combining the selected configuration, represented trajectory, and transmission ratio of each gear pair. Finally, a planetary gear train combining a noncircular gear pair and a helical gear pair was used in the WPST mechanism design. Simulations and tests conducted on a prototype confirmed the correctness of the theoretical model and the practicality of the design. Keywords: Noncircular gear, Planetary gear train, Spatial trajectory, Transmission ratio, Transplanting mechanism.
Two-lines method for estimation of plasma temperature and characterization of plasma parameters in optically thick plasma conditions
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the characteristics of laser-induced plasmas are studied by investigation of the spectral line features in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) experiments. The plasma is produced by focusing of a Nd:YAG laser on standard Al-alloy samples at 30 mJ energy. Here, with the assumption of having a homogenous plasma and by using a semiemperical technical method, the plasma temperature is calculated by the proposal of a new two-lines method. Moreover, by utilizing some theoretical equations, the plasma parameters and the self-absorption magnitude are evaluated according to the radiative transfer equations in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) conditions. The main advantages of this method are that without discrimination between thin plasmas and thick ones, and as well as without straight quantification of the degree of self-absorption, the plasma temperature can be calculated. The results showed that determination of the intensities of the spectral lines, transition parameters, and Stark broadening parameter is adequate for plasma characterization in a typical LIBS experiment.
Non-spherical particle size estimation using supervised machine learning
Authors: Moon Chi Young , Gargiulo Aldo , Byun Gwibo , Todd Lowe K.
Published: March 2020

The inverse scattering problem of non-spherical particle size estimation is solved using a series of supervised machine learning models trained on a library of light scattering data. By establishing a large library with spheres and spheroids as fundamental shapes and through optimization of model hyperparameters, the trained models are able to accurately estimate a precise equivalent volume sphere radius of particles from an external database and simulations, with root mean square errors of 2.6% and 1.9% for the external and simulated particles, respectively. It was found that classification via a

k

-nearest neighbor model and refinement via a trained ensemble regression model performed best for equivalent volume measurements.
Robustness of the ePIE algorithm for the complete characterization of femtosecond, extreme ultra-violet pulses
Authors: Murari Mario , Lucarelli Giacinto D. , Lucchini Matteo , Nisoli Mauro
Published: March 2020

Frequency-resolved optical gating for the complete reconstruction of attosecond bursts (FROG-CRAB) is a well-known technique for the complete temporal characterization of ultrashort extreme ultraviolet (XUV) pulses, with durations down to a few tens of attoseconds. Recently, this technique was extended to few-femtosecond XUV pulses, produced by high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in gases, thanks to the implementation of a robust iterative algorithm: the extended ptychographic iterative engine (ePIE). We demonstrate, by using numerical simulations, that the ptychographic reconstruction technique is characterized by an excellent degree of convergence and robustness. We analyse the effects on pulse reconstruction of various experimental imperfections, namely, the jitter of the relative temporal delay between the XUV pulse and a suitably delayed infrared (IR) pulse and the noise of the measured FROG-CRAB spectrograms. We also show that the ePIE approach is particularly suitable for the reconstruction of incomplete FROG-CRAB spectrograms (i.e., spectrograms with a reduced number of measured time delays) and of spectrograms acquired with a reduced spectral resolution, particularly when relatively high-intensity IR pulses are employed.
A casestudy on the use of an innovative, technical, musical instrument, Skoog, in a special needs education setting with a child with autism and its effects on social skills
Authors: Rinta Tiija
Published: March 2020

The aim of the study was to explore the use of a unique musical instrument called Skoog in a special needs education setting with a child with autism. A case-study approach was adopted. Emphasis was placed on the potential of Skoog, which increases the participant’s initiation to make eye-contact and to initiate a conversation or other forms of communication. The participant was a 4-year-old boy with autism. The participant received 21 sessions of therapy, with outcomes from the sessions utilizing Skoog being compared to the outcomes from sessions not utilizing Skoog. The sessions were filmed, and pre- and post-intervention evaluations were carried out. The results did not yield any statistically significant difference between Skoog and non-Skoog sessions. A greater amount of verbal communication was recorded during the non-Skoog sessions. This might be because the participant used music, instead of language, to communicate when using Skoog. These results contradict findings from previous studies. A large-scale study with a greater number of participants is needed to further evaluate the use of Skoog in special needs education setting.
Sealing new truths: Film adaptation as cultural capstone for 101 Reykjavík
Authors: Larsen Mads
Published: March 2020

When fiction introduces controversial new perspectives, the novel and its film adaptation can play different roles in a cultural discussion. In the wake of globalization and Generation X, the novel 101 Reykjavík () suggested a sex-obsessed slacker identity that most Icelanders rejected or ignored. A later film adaptation (Kormákur, 2000) cut the sharpest edges off the story’s postmodern critique, lessened the protagonist’s immorality, made the narrative more conventional and offered an ending with communal reunification. The film’s success led Icelanders to revaluate not only the novel’s message but their own identity. 101 Reykjavík became the new truth about young Icelanders in the 1990s. This combination of a disputatious novel and a more conciliatory film adaptation is not uncommon with Nordic fiction. For socially ambitious filmmakers, retelling contentious stories in a form more fit for mass consumption can help them bring audiences and nations from old truths to new.
Arousing the audience: The two-peak structure of drama film trailers
Authors: Thomsen Morten , Heiselberg Lene
Published: March 2020

Film trailers are considered the most important marketing tool for a feature film; however, they have rarely been discussed in audience research. This article examines audiences’ emotional responses to film trailer content based on an exploratory study using skin conductance to measure emotional arousal as well as self-reports on recall, evaluation and the desire to see the film. The results indicate that it is not the overall level of arousal that is likely to affect these factors, but instead a specific pattern of arousal that allows variation and build-up to memorable scenes. Based on the analysis of four drama film trailers, we suggest that a two-peak structure provides an optimal arousal curve.
‘Something Bad [was] Happening’: Falsettos as an historical record of the AIDS epidemic
Authors: Anderson Virginia
Published: March 2020

This article argues for the importance of an often-overlooked aspect of Falsettos: the role of Dr Charlotte, a character whose name is never spoken in performance and who is defined by her professional and sexual identities. On the surface, her presence facilitates plot development by introducing discussion of an unknown and fatal illness in the final quarter of the two-act evening. But her identities as a woman, a lesbian and a doctor – and the signification of each – unlock largely unspoken histories, reflecting and transforming broader histories of the AIDS epidemic.
Introduction to the ‘Bruce Kirle Panel for Emerging Scholars’ at the Association for Theatre in Higher Education, Orlando, Florida, August 2019
Authors: Laird Paul R.
Published: March 2020

An introduction to and brief commentary on the three papers presented at the ‘Bruce Kirle Panel for Emerging Scholars’ in August 2019 with emphasis on their consideration of various aspects of politics and social issues and how they deal with the plots and music of the shows they consider within varied theoretical frameworks. The shows addressed by the three authors include London Road, Hamilton and Little Shop of Horrors.
ARUS SELATAN JAWA
Authors: Surinati Dewi , Wijaya Jaka Harry Mulyanto
Published: March 2020

SOUTH JAVA CURRENT. Indian Ocean is influenced by the monsoon cycle. Monsoon cycle that occurs in the Indian Ocean influences the current patterns. Since a very strong westerlies occurs in The Tropical Convergence Zone (TCZ) at the equator, wyrtki jet is formed in the 40° - 80° W Indian Ocean on a transitional season. Its branchs are possibly formed when the wyrtki jet is in the equatorial west coast of Sumatra to the north and south along the western coast of Sumatra which eventually creates South Java Current (SJC). SJC flows southeastward during December–April and northwestward during June–October, when it is associated with coastal upwelling. SJC develop upwelling on a seasonal basis.
PENCEMARAN PLASTIK DI LAUT
Authors: Cordova Muhammad Reza
Published: March 2020

PLASTICS POLLUTION IN THE SEA. Indonesia is considered as the second biggest plastic waste producer in the sea. Information on waste pollution and its impact on marine organisms in Indonesia is still limited. Waste disposal and solid waste (plastics) into the sea are continuously occuring; elevating the thoughts of global impact of plastic waste contamination. Increased use of plastic is a consequence of the development of technologies, industries and also the population. This paper is expected to provide knowledge and information of plastics that exist in the sea, especially Indonesian Sea.
DEMNAS: MODEL DIGITAL KETINGGIAN NASIONAL UNTUK APLIKASI KEPESISIRAN
Authors: Iswari Marindah Yulia , Anggraini Kasih
Published: March 2020

DEMNAS : NATIONAL DIGITAL ELEVATION MODEL FOR COASTAL APPLICATION. DEM is a digital data which contain information about elevation. In Indonesia, DEM can be generated from elevation points or contours in RBI (Rupabumi Indonesia). DEM can be performed to research of coastal application i.e. inundation or tsunami. DEM can help to analyze vulnerability or evacuation zone for coastal hazards. DEMNAS is one product of BIG (Geospatial Information Agency) which consist of elevation data from remote sensing images. DEMNAS data has not been widely used and is still being developed but DEMNAS has an advantage of spatial resolution. DEMNAS has spatial resolution 0.27 arc-second, which is bigger than the spatial resolution of global DEM.
Evaluating the performance of a double integrating sphere in measurement of reflectance, transmittance, and albedo of coniferous needles
Authors: Hovi Aarne , Mõttus Matti , Juola Jussi , Manoocheri Farshid , Ikonen Erkki , Rautiainen Miina
Published: March 2020

Leaf reflectance and transmittance spectra are essential information in many applications such as developing remote sensing methods, computing shortwave energy balance (albedo) of forest canopies, and monitoring health or stress of trees. Measurement of coniferous needle spectra has usually been carried out with single integrating spheres, which has involved a lot of tedious manual work. A small double integrating sphere would make the measurements considerably faster, because of its ease of operation and small sample sizes required. Here we applied a compact double integrating sphere setup, used previously for measurement of broad leaves, for measurement of coniferous needles. Test measurements with the double integrating sphere showed relative underestimation of needle albedo by 5â39% compared to a well-established single integrating sphere setup. A small part of the bias can be explained by the bias of the single sphere. Yet the observed bias is quite significant if absolute accuracy of measurements is required. For relative measurements, e.g. for monitoring development of needle spectra over time, the double sphere system provides notable improvement. Furthermore, it might be possible to reduce the bias by building an optimized measurement setup that minimizes absorption losses in the sample port. Our study indicates that double spheres, after some technical improvement, may provide a new and fast way to collect extensive spectral libraries of tree species.
Treatment Of Palatoplasty Repair With Von Langenbeck Technique And Hemostatic Absorbable Gelatin: Case Report And Literature Reviews
Authors: Ibnu Ikhsan M. Idris , Subarno Saktrio D.
Published: March 2020

Background: Cleft is a common congenital abnormality in the lip and palate. Cleft palate or palatoschisis is a congenital abnormality occured during pregnancy, resulting in cleft of the palate that does not coalesce into the nasal cavity area, so there is a relationship between the nasal cavity and mouth. Various surgical techniques for cleft palate correction can be used and each method has advantages and disadvantages.

Patient and Method: Here, we report a case of palatoschisis reconstruction using Von Langenbeck technique and hemostatic absorbable gelatin that was carried out at Aliyah 3 Hospital, Kendari.

Result: After initial diagnosis, the patient underwent surgery about two weeks later. Von Langenback palatoplasty was performed to close the palate defect. The defect then closed primarily with 4/0 optime and 6/0 corolene.

Conclusion: Optimal surgical planning, good patient orientation and surgical techniques that are carefully considered are essential for optimal results. Herein, we report a case of palatoschisis and reconstructive surgery using von Langenback technique performed to restore the cleft of palate.
Multiple Lower Eyelid Nodules In Breast Cancer Patient With History Of Dermal Fillers: A Case Report
Authors: Gunardi Alberta Jesslyn , Marsaulina Renate Parlene , Kevin Jonathan , Sakura Irena
Published: March 2020

Background: Dermal filler injections have been associated with several complications, including migration to other areas and forming nodules due to the presence of foreign bodies or granulomatous reactions may develop, which encapsulates the filler. Fillers might also be associated with malignancy. The presence of such complications must be removed with reconstructive surgery.

Methods: We present a case of breast cancer patient with a history of dermal filler injection to the lower eyelid. The nodules in the lower eyelid was surgically removed, and the lower eyelid, particularly the muscle, was reconstructed to provide a good cosmetic result. The nodules were also pathologically examined to confirm the diagnosis. Reconstruction of the lower eyelid was conducted with care by noting the aesthetic aspects.

Results: A local muscle flap was easy to harvest and handle, and provided good results. It is also important to consider malignancy to treat the patient thoroughly. The pathology examination confirmed the diagnosis of metastasis. This case is unique because the nodules developed in the patient may be associated with metastasis of the cancer or the dermal filler injection.

Conclusion: Our reconstruction technique leads to a good cosmetic result. There are no sign of complications and recurrence at 3 months following the procedure.
The utility of measurement uncertainty in medical laboratories
Authors: Braga Federica , Panteghini Mauro
Published: March 2020

The definition and enforcement of reference measurement systems, based on the implementation of metrological traceability of patient results to higher-order (reference) methods and/or materials, together with a clinically acceptable level of measurement uncertainty (MU), are fundamental requirements to produce accurate and equivalent laboratory results. The MU associated with each step of the traceability chain should be governed to obtain a final combined MU on clinical samples fulfilling the requested performance specifications. MU is useful for a number of reasons: (a) for giving objective information about the quality of individual laboratory performance; (b) for serving as a management tool for the medical laboratory and in vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturers, forcing them to investigate and eventually fix the identified problems; (c) for helping those manufacturers that produce superior products and measuring systems to demonstrate the superiority of those products; (d) for identifying analytes that need analytical improvement for their clinical use and ask IVD manufacturers to work for improving the quality of assay performance and (e) for abandoning assays with demonstrated insufficient quality. Accordingly, the MU should not be considered a parameter to be calculated by medical laboratories just to fulfill accreditation standards, but it must become a key quality indicator to describe both the performance of an IVD measuring system and the laboratory itself.
General properties of autoimmune thyroid diseases and associated morbidities
Authors: Ibili Aysel Burcu Palandokenlier , Selver Eklioglu Beray , Atabek Mehmet Emre
Published: March 2020

Background

Autoimmune thyroid diseases (ATDs) can be classified into two basic diseases: Graves’ disease (GD) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT). Here, we review the effectiveness of laboratory and imaging methods used for the early diagnosis of ATD and draw attention to methods that may improve screening.

Methods

Retrospective data of 142 patients diagnosed with ATD between January 2010 and December 2015 at our paediatric endocrinology clinic were used. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical findings, treatments and follow-up data of patients were statistically evaluated.

Results

Of the ATD cases, 81% (n = 115) were female. The median age was 12.5 ± 3.5 (range 1–17) years and 91% (n = 129) of patients were in puberty. There was a significant positive correlation between the height (standard deviation score) and follow-up time for patients with HT (r = 0.156, p < 0.01). Thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) positivity was found in 75% (45/60) of females with a positive maternal ATD history (p = 0.045). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4) values were significantly altered during the treatment follow-up period in female patients with GD and HT, while only fT4 values were found to be significantly altered in boys with HT.

Conclusion

Although GD and HT have similar mechanisms, they differ in terms of treatment duration and remission and relapse frequencies. Ultrasonography (USG) screening is a non-invasive procedure that is suitable for all patients with ATD. Based on our results, TgAb could be useful in the screening of girls with a history of maternal ATD.
Comparison of leptin levels in neonates born to mothers with high or low gestational weight gain
Authors: Vargas-Aguirre Paulina , Tene Carlos E. , Del Toro-Equihua Mario , Bayardo-Tortolero Rosalinda , Sánchez-Meza Karmina
Published: March 2020

Background

Gestational weight gain (GWG) influences both fetal and maternal health. Leptin is a biomarker that may predict the early development of obesity and greater weight gain in childhood. Newborns with higher neonatal weight have been found to have higher leptin levels in umbilical cord blood (UCB). There are few studies that evaluate leptin levels in UCB according to GWG in women with a normal body mass index (BMI). The aim of the present study was to determine whether the levels of leptin in UCB in neonates born to mothers with a high GWG were higher, compared with levels in newborns whose mothers had a low GWG.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted on 65 primigravidas. They were under 30 years of age, had normal pregestational BMIs, no associated diseases and were classified as having high (n = 22) or low (n = 43) GWG. The neonatal UCB leptin levels were measured and both neonatal and maternal anthropometric evaluations were carried out. The quantitative variables were compared through the Mann-Whitney U test and Student’s t test, as appropriate.

Results

UCB leptin levels were higher in the neonates whose mothers were in the high GWG group, compared with those born to mothers in the low GWG group (7.0 [1.9–11.4] vs. 2.9 [1.2–6.7] ng/mL, p = 0.020). When stratified by sex, that difference was maintained only in male neonates.

Conclusions

UCB leptin levels were higher in neonates born to mothers with a high GWG, compared with those in newborns whose mothers had a low GWG.
Anpassungsmaßnahmen zur Reduktion von Klimawandel-induzierten Gesundheitsrisiken in Österreich: Schwerpunkt Überschwemmungen
Authors: Wallner Peter , Lemmerer Kathrin , Hutter Hans-Peter
Published: March 2020

Mit dem Klimawandel ist in Österreich eine Zunahme bei Intensität und Häufigkeit von Extremwetterereignissen wie Starkregen zu erwarten. Damit verbunden sind neben direkten Gesundheitsrisiken auch indirekte Effekte von Überschwemmungen, etwa psychosoziale Folgen, die bisher wenig im Fokus der Aufmerksamkeit stehen. Im Aktionsplan zur Österr. Strategie zur Anpassung an den Klimawandel werden Maßnahmen zur Erweiterung des Schutzes vor Naturgefahren vorgeschlagen. Eine explizite Einbeziehung von Klimawandelaspekten und dem Umgang damit ist bisher im Katastrophenmanagement kaum verankert.
Climate change – a still neglected topic in medicine and public health programs?
Authors: Grojsman Rébecca , Schütte Stefanie , Depoux Anneliese , Flahault Antoine
Published: March 2020

Health professionals are well placed to play a key role in educating people about climate and health. This article maps existing climate change education in medical as well as public health programs, identifies gaps and proposes possible improvements. It is essential that climate and health education enter the broader curriculum as this will also be a foundational part of education and help build the next generation of global expertise needed to create a healthier and more sustainable future.
Klimapolitik als Chance für bessere Gesundheit
Authors: von Philipsborn Peter , Wabnitz Katharina , Sell Kerstin , Maintz Eva , Rehfuess Eva , Gabrysch Sabine
Published: March 2020

Die Jugendbewegung Fridays for Future und KlimawissenschaftlerInnen fordern entschiedenes Handeln für den Klimaschutz. Die notwendige Umgestaltung der Gesellschaft ist eine Chance für das Schaffen von Lebensbedingungen, welche die physische und psychische Gesundheit von Menschen umfassend zur Entfaltung bringen. Anhand von drei Beispielen werden im vorliegenden Beitrag Win-Win-Ansätze dargestellt, die synergistisch die Gesundheit von Menschen und den Erhalt ihrer natürlichen Umwelt schützen und fördern.
BİLECİK BALLARININ MELİSSOPALİNOLOJİK VE KİMYASAL ÖZELLİKLERİ AÇISINDAN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: KESKİN Şaban , MAYDA Nazlı , KESKİN Merve , ÖZKÖK Aslı
Published: March 2020

Balın içeriği toplandığı bölgenin florası, iklimsel özellikleri, toplanma zamanı ve şekli gibi birçok etkene göre farklılık gösterebilmektedir. Balın kalitesinin belirlenmesinde başta bitkisel orijini olmak üzere kimyasal ve antioksidan özelliklerinin de ortaya konulması gerekmektedir. Yapılan bu çalışmada Bilecik ilinden toplanan 16 adet bal örneği melissopalinolojik açıdan incelenmiş, balların nem, toplam fenolik madde miktarı, glukoz, fruktoz oranları ve aroma bileşenleri belirlenmiştir Elde edilen bulgular sonucu ballarda 20 familyaya ait 35 farklı bitki taksonuna rastlanmıştır. Toplam polen sayıları açısından değerlendirildiğinde 6 adet balın normal, 10 adet balın ise düşük kalitede oldukları görülmüştür. Balların nem içerikleri %15.8 ile %19.5 arasında değişmektedir. Balların fruktoz/glikoz (F/G) oranlarının ise 096 ile 1.19 aralığında olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ballarda toplam fenolik madde miktarı en düşük 33 mg GAE/ 100 g iken en yüksek 81 mg GAE/ 100 g olarak ölçülmüştür. GC-MS analizleri sonucu balların aldehitler, alifatik asit ve esterleri, alkoller, ketonlar, terpenler ve yağ asitleri gibi bileşik gruplarını içerdikleri gözlenmiştir.