bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of process temperature and organic loading rate on cellulolytic / hydrolytic biofilm microbiomes during biomethanation of ryegrass silage revealed by genome-centered metagenomics and metatranscriptomics
Authors: Maus Irena , Klocke Michael , Derenkó Jaqueline , Stolze Yvonne , Beckstette Michael , Jost Carsten , Wibberg Daniel , Blom Jochen , Henke Christian , Willenbücher Katharina , Rumming Madis , Rademacher Antje , Pühler Alfred , Sczyrba Alexander , Schlüter Andreas
Published: March 2020

Background

Anaerobic digestion (AD) of protein-rich grass silage was performed in experimental two-stage two-phase biogas reactor systems at low vs. increased organic loading rates (OLRs) under mesophilic (37 °C) and thermophilic (55 °C) temperatures. To follow the adaptive response of the biomass-attached cellulolytic/hydrolytic biofilms at increasing ammonium/ammonia contents, genome-centered metagenomics and transcriptional profiling based on metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) were conducted.

Results

In total, 78 bacterial and archaeal MAGs representing the most abundant members of the communities, and featuring defined quality criteria were selected and characterized in detail. Determination of MAG abundances under the tested conditions by mapping of the obtained metagenome sequence reads to the MAGs revealed that MAG abundance profiles were mainly shaped by the temperature but also by the OLR. However, the OLR effect was more pronounced for the mesophilic systems as compared to the thermophilic ones. In contrast, metatranscriptome mapping to MAGs subsequently normalized to MAG abundances showed that under thermophilic conditions, MAGs respond to increased OLRs by shifting their transcriptional activities mainly without adjusting their proliferation rates. This is a clear difference compared to the behavior of the microbiome under mesophilic conditions. Here, the response to increased OLRs involved adjusting of proliferation rates and corresponding transcriptional activities. The analysis led to the identification of MAGs positively responding to increased OLRs. The most outstanding MAGs in this regard, obviously well adapted to higher OLRs and/or associated conditions, were assigned to the order Clostridiales (Acetivibrio sp.) for the mesophilic biofilm and the orders Bacteroidales (Prevotella sp. and an unknown species), Lachnospirales (Herbinix sp. and Kineothrix sp.) and Clostridiales (Clostridium sp.) for the thermophilic biofilm. Genome-based metabolic reconstruction and transcriptional profiling revealed that positively responding MAGs mainly are involved in hydrolysis of grass silage, acidogenesis and / or acetogenesis.

Conclusions

An integrated -omics approach enabled the identification of new AD biofilm keystone species featuring outstanding performance under stress conditions such as increased OLRs. Genome-based knowledge on the metabolic potential and transcriptional activity of responsive microbiome members will contribute to the development of improved microbiological AD management strategies for biomethanation of renewable biomass.
No date for the PROM: the association between patient-reported health events and clinical coding in primary care
Authors: Barr Paul J. , Berry Scott A. , Gozansky Wendolyn S. , McQuillan Deanna B. , Ross Colleen , Carmichael Don , Austin Andrea M. , Satterlund Travis D. , Schifferdecker Karen E. , Council Lora , Dannenberg Michelle D. , Wampler Ariel T. , Nelson Eugene C. , Skinner Jonathan
Published: March 2020

Objective

It is unclear whether data from patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are captured and used by clinicians despite policy initiatives. We examined the extent to which fall risk and urinary incontinence (UI) reported on PROMS and provided to clinicians prior to a patient visit are subsequently captured in the electronic medical record (EMR). Additionally, we aimed to determine whether the use of PROMs and EMR documentation is higher for visits where PROM data was provided to clinicians.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional patient-reported risk assessment survey and semi-structured interviews with clinicians to identify themes related to the use of PROMs.

Setting

Fourteen primary care clinics in the US (eight intervention and six control clinics), between October 2013 and May 2015.

Participants

Primary care clinicians and older adult (≥66 years) patients completing a 46-item health risk assessment, including PROMs for fall risk and UI.

Intervention

Risk assessment results provided to the clinician or nurse practitioners prior to the clinic visit in intervention clinics; data was not provided in control clinics.

Main outcome

1) Agreement between ICD-9 codes of fall risk or UI in the EMR and patient-reports, and 2) clinician experience of PROMs use and impact on coding.

Results

A total of 505 older adult patients were included in the study, 176 at control clinics and 329 at intervention clinics. While patient reports of fall risk and UI were readily captured by PROMs, this information was only coded in the EMR between 3% – 14% of the time (poor Kappa agreement). Intervention clinics performed slightly better than control clinics. Clinician interviews (n = 16) revealed low use of PROMs data with multiple barriers cited including poor access to data, high quantity of data, interruption to workflow, and a lack of training on PROMs.

Conclusions

Current strategies of providing PROMs data prior to clinic visits may not be an effective way of communicating important health information to busy clinicians; ultimately resulting in underuse. Better systems of presenting PROMs data, and clinician training on the importance of PROMs and their use, is needed.
Experiences of evidence presentation in court: an insight into the practice of crime scene examiners in England, Wales and Australia
Authors: Sheppard K. , Fieldhouse S. J. , Cassella J. P.
Published: March 2020

Background

The ability to present complex forensic evidence in a courtroom in a manner that is fully comprehensible to all stakeholders remains problematic. Individual subjective interpretations may impede a collective and correct understanding of the complex environments and the evidence therein presented to them. This is not fully facilitated or assisted in any way with current non-technological evidence presentation methods such as poor resolution black and white photocopies or unidimensional photographs of complex 3D environments. Given the wide availability of relatively cheap technology, such as tablets, smartphones and laptops, there is evidence to suggest that individuals are already used to receiving visually complex information in relatively short periods of time such as is available in a court hearing. courtrooms could learn from this more generic widespread use of technology and have demonstrated their ability to do so in part by their adoption of the use of tablets for Magistrates. The aim of this current study was to identify the types of digital technology being used in courts and to obtain data from police personnel presenting digital evidence in court.

Results

A questionnaire study was conducted in this research to explore current technology used within courtrooms from the perspective of crime scene personnel involved in the presentation of complex crime scene evidence. The study demonstrated that whilst many of the participants currently utilize high-end technological solutions to document their crime scenes, such as 360° photography or laser scanning technologies, their ability to present such evidence was hindered or prevented. This was most likely due to either a lack of existing technology installed in the court, or due to a lack of interoperability between new and existing technology.

Conclusion

This study has contributed to this academic field by publishing real life experiences of crime scene examiner’s, who have used advanced technology to record and evaluate crime scenes but are limited in their scope for sharing this information with the court due to technological insufficiency. Contemporary recording techniques have provided the opportunity for further review of crime scenes, which is considered to be a valuable property over previous documentation practice, which relied upon the competency of the investigator to comprehensively capture the scene, often in a single opportunity.
Effects of chitosan and emamectin benzoate on the reproductive system of Eobania vermiculata (Muller) land snails
Authors: Kandil M. A. , Eweis E. A. , Mobarak Soha A. , Nada Abbas M. T.
Published: March 2020

The reproductive system of snails represents essential organ that affects snail population size. Therefore, the present research was directed to evaluate the effect of two biopesticides chitosan (Ch) and emamectin benzoate (EMB) LC50on the reproductive system ofEobania vermiculata(Muller). Land snails were treated using thin-film layer technique. Snails were dissected and organs of reproductive system were weighted and examined for any pathological changes at 24, 48 and 72 h post treatment. Moreover, steroidal hormones were determined after 72 h of treatment with either chitosan or emamectin benzoate in comparison to untreated snails. Results revealed that the penis and dart sac increased in size, while ovotestis was decreased at the 3 different periods than the same organs of untreated snails. In addition, there was swelling in the size of some organs, i.e penis and vagina. While there was stunting in the albumen gland at 72 h of treatment with Ch or EMB. However, histological examination showed damage of the ovotestis and atrophy of induced cells in the dart sac and penis. The incidents of both compounds on the level of steroidal hormones gave fluctuating results, either increasingly or decreasingly. In conclusion, data emphasize that both tested compounds caused reduction in the numerical density of theE. vermiculatareproductive system and consequently decreased their fertility, as well as reduction in its population.
Correction to: A rare case of a giant arterio-venous fistula (AVF) following metastatic choriocarcinoma conditioning pulmonary embolism: multimodal transcatheter embolization using a simultaneous transarterial and transvenous approach
Authors: Venturini Massimo , Bergamini Alice , Colarieti Anna , Petrone Micaela , Marra Paolo , Rabaiotti Emanuela , Mangili Giorgia , Candiani Massimo , Del Maschio Alessandro , De Cobelli Francesco
Published: March 2020

‘In the published article [1] the statement under the subheading ‘Consent for publication’ is incorrect.
The diagnostic value of diffusion-weighted imaging in differentiating benign from malignant hepatic lesions
Authors: Javadrashid Reza , Shakeri Bavil Olyaei Abolhassan , Tarzamni Mohammad Kazem , Razzaghi Roghayeh , Jalili Javad , Hashemzadeh Shahryar , Mirza-Aghazadeh-Attari Mohammad , Kiani Nazarlou Ali , Zarrintan Armin
Published: March 2020

Background

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a novel imaging technique with growing application in onco-imaging. This modality evaluates the diffusion of water molecules in various tissues, which is restricted in hyper cellular regions such as malignant tissue. Apparent diffusion co-efficient (ADC) is a method which can quantify the degree of restriction in tissues and can have diagnostic roles in characterization of hepatic lesions. In this study, 93 patients with proven hepatic lesions were included. These patients had undergone initial evaluation via ultrasonography and dynamic CT scan, and had a definite diagnosis confirmed by biopsy. These patients underwent DW imaging and ADC values of their lesions were calculated. Patients were divided into two groups, benign and malignant groups, based on their biopsy results; and ADC values of hepatic lesions were compared in the two groups.

Results

The two groups were gender matched. There was a significant difference in the age distribution between the two groups. Mean ADC values for benign and malignant hepatic lesions were 1.58 ± 0.35 (10-3 mm2/s) and 0.87 ± 0.16 (10-3 mm2/s), respectively. There was a statistically significant differences between benign and malignant hepatic lesions (p value < 10-3). DW imaging had a sensitivity of 97.6% and specificity of 98.7% in detecting malignant hepatic lesions from benign ones (p = 0.0001, AUC = 0.99).

Conclusion

DW MRI imaging can differentiate malignant and benign liver lesions with high sensitivity and specificity using ADC values generated; furthermore, each subgroup of hepatic lesions could be determined based on ADC values.
Information Metamaterials: bridging the physical world and digital world
Authors: Ma Qian , Cui Tie Jun
Published: March 2020

Over the past 5 years, digital coding and programmable metamaterials have been developed rapidly since their first exhibition in 2014. The iconic feature of the digital coding metamaterial is using digital codes like “0” and “1” to represent the distinct electromagnetic (EM) responses. This seemingly trivial progress has successfully reform the design theory from the effective medium to coding patterns, bridging the physical world and digital information world. More interestingly, beyond the simple coding on the parameters or patterns, the digital coding metamaterials are more intend to introduce the concept of direct interactions and operations of digital information within EM fields, to realize information processing, transmission or recognition. To accurately exhibit the informational specialties, we classify the coding metamaterials, digital metamaterials and programmable metamaterials, as well as other information-operating metamaterials, as information metamaterials. In this review article, we firstly introduce the digital coding concept, working mechanism, and related design methods. Then, three important theories including the scattering pattern calculation, convolution operation, and entropy of digital coding metamaterials, are discussed in details. Finally we introduce several system-level works based on the information metamaterials, such as the new-architecture wireless communication systems and reprogrammable imaging systems, to show the powerful manipulation capabilities of information metamaterials. As the next generation of information metamaterials, two proof-of-concept smart metamaterials and their advanced architectures are discussed. In the summary, the development track of information metamaterials and future trends are presented.
President's Page
Authors: Lumley David
Published: March 2020

These days, I am thinking a lot about geophysics and sustainability — sustainability of our applied geophysics discipline and our collective expertise; sustainability of our geophysics educational programs in universities and professional organizations; sustainability of our investments in geophysical research and development of amazing new technologies; sustainability of exciting and rewarding career paths and employment opportunities in geophysics; sustainability of our global human society and the role of geophysics in providing natural resources while protecting the environment; and sustainability of our professional society, SEG, in terms of its mission, membership, programs, benefits, and services.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Activates the NOTCH1 Signaling Pathway Through E-Proteins in Endometriotic Lesions
Authors: Song Yong , Su Ren-Wei , Joshi Niraj R , Kim Tae Hoon , Lessey Bruce A , Jeong Jae-Wook , Fazleabas Asgerally T
Published: March 2020

Context

NOTCH signaling is activated in endometriotic lesions, but the exact mechanisms remains unclear. IL-6, which is increased in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis, induces NOTCH1 through E-proteins including E2A and HEB in cancer.

Objective

To study the role of E-proteins in inducing NOTCH1 expression under the regulation of IL-6 in endometriosis.

Setting and Design

The expression of E-proteins and NOTCH1 was first investigated in endometrium of women with endometriosis and the baboon model of endometriosis. Regulation of E-proteins and NOTCH1 expression was examined after IL-6 stimulation and siRNA mediated inhibition of E2A or/and HEB in human endometriotic epithelial cells (12Z) in vitro, and subsequently following IL-6 treatment in the mouse model of endometriosis in vivo.

Results

E2A, HEB, and NOTCH1 were significantly upregulated in glandular epithelium (GE) of ectopic endometrium compared to eutopic endometrium in both women and the baboon model. IL-6 treatment upregulated the expression of NOTCH1 together with E2A and HEB in 12Z cells. Small interfering RNA inhibition of E2A and HEB or HEB alone decreased NOTCH1 expression. Binding efficiency of both E2A and HEB was significantly higher at the binding sites on the human NOTCH1 promoter after IL-6 treatment. Finally, IL-6 treatment resulted in a significantly increased number of endometriotic lesions along with increased expression of E2A, HEB, and NOTCH1 in GE of the lesions compared with the vehicle group in an endometriosis mouse model.

Conclusions

IL-6 induced NOTCH1 expression is mediated by E-proteins in the ectopic GE cells, which may promote endometriotic lesion development.
Resting Energy Expenditure in Obese Women with Primary Hypothyroidism and Appropriate Levothyroxine Replacement Therapy
Authors: Muraca Emanuele , Ciardullo Stefano , Oltolini Alice , Zerbini Francesca , Bianconi Eleonora , Perra Silvia , Villa Matteo , Cannistraci Rosa , Castoldi Giovanna , Pizzi Pietro , Manzoni Giuseppina , Lattuada Guido , Perseghin Gianluca
Published: March 2020

Context

Growing evidence suggests that appropriate levothyroxine (LT4) replacement therapy may not correct the full set of metabolic defects afflicting individuals with hypothyroidism.

Objective

To assess whether obese subjects with primary hypothyroidism are characterized by alterations of the resting energy expenditure (REE).

Design

Retrospective analysis of a set of data about obese women attending the outpatients service of a single obesity center from January 2013 to July 2019.

Patients

A total of 649 nondiabetic women with body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2 and thyrotropin (TSH) level 0.4–4.0 mU/L were segregated into 2 groups: patients with primary hypothyroidism taking LT4 therapy (n = 85) and patients with normal thyroid function (n = 564).

Main outcomes

REE and body composition assessed using indirect calorimetry and bioimpedance.

Results

REE was reduced in women with hypothyroidism in LT4 therapy when compared with controls (28.59 ± 3.26 vs 29.91 ± 3.59 kcal/kg fat-free mass (FFM)/day), including when adjusted for age, BMI, body composition, and level of physical activity (P = 0.008). This metabolic difference was attenuated only when adjustment for homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was performed.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that obese hypothyroid women in LT4 therapy, with normal serum TSH level compared with euthyroid controls, are characterized by reduced REE, in line with the hypothesis that standard LT4 replacement therapy may not fully correct metabolic alterations related to hypothyroidism. We are not able to exclude that this feature may be influenced by the modulation of insulin sensitivity at the liver site, induced by LT4 oral administration.
Hormonal Profiles of Menstrual Bleeding Patterns During the Luteal-Follicular Transition
Authors: Jacobson Melanie H , Howards Penelope P , Kesner James S , Meadows Juliana W , Dominguez Celia E , Spencer Jessica B , Darrow Lyndsey A , Terrell Metrecia L , Marcus Michele
Published: March 2020

Context

Menstrual cycle function is determined by a complex endocrine axis that controls the ovaries and endometrium. While the late luteal phase is characterized by declining progesterone and estrogen, how these hormonal profiles relate to menstrual bleeding patterns is not well understood.

Objective

Characterize associations between luteal phase hormonal profiles and subsequent menstrual bleeding patterns, specifically spotting before bleeding.

Design, Setting, and Participants

We examined creatinine-adjusted urinary estrone 3-glucuronide (E13G) and pregnanediol 3-glucuronide (Pd3G) levels in relation to spotting in 116 premenopausal women (ages 20–47) who kept daily menstrual diaries and collected first morning urine samples for ≥ 2 consecutive cycles or 1 luteal-follicular transition (n = 283 transitions). We used linear mixed models to estimate associations between luteal phase hormone levels and spotting before bleeding.

Main Outcome Measure(s) and Results

Transitions with ≥ 1 days of spotting before menstrual bleeding (n = 118) had greater luteal phase Pd3G levels vs nonspotting transitions (n = 165). Differences in Pd3G between spotting and nonspotting transitions were largest at menses onset (34.8%, 95% confidence interval, 18.9%, 52.7%). Pd3G levels for spotting transitions dropped to similar levels as nonspotting transitions an average of 1 day later, which aligned with the first day of bleeding for transitions with contiguous spotting. Spotting transitions were preceded by slower rates of Pd3G decline than nonspotting transitions, whereas E13G declines were similar.

Conclusions

Self-reported bleeding patterns may provide insight into luteal phase Pd3G levels. First bleed appears to be the best choice for defining the end of the luteal phase and achieving hormonal consistency across transitions.
Follow my leader
Authors: Meldrum Eloise
Published: March 2020

What does strong leadership mean to you? Eloise Meldrum reveals her tick list for an effective and workable practice model
Put yourself in their shoes
Authors: Edney Catherine
Published: March 2020

Catherine Edney reveals why empathetic dentistry is key to prevention
Private practice vs NHS care: caring for different demands
Authors: Colak Hulya
Published: March 2020

Hulya Colak shares her contrasting experience in dental nursing – from working in private practice in a London clinic to nursing in an NHS practice in Thanet in Kent, considered one on the most deprived regions in the UK
Taking a holistic approach
Authors: Sparling Helen
Published: March 2020

Helen Sparling is a dental nurse working at the Isle of Wight Cowes Special Care Dental Service. Here, she shares her experience of meeting the many needs of her patients
A little bedtime reading?
Authors: Sharma Priya
Published: March 2020

Registration recognises your professional role, but what is expected of you? Priya Sharma outlines the regulator's requirements
Dental nurse to dental clinician
Authors: Bowles Joanne , Ellwood Fiona
Published: March 2020

What are the options for those who wish to follow their dreams, but haven't the required A-level subjects or grades to apply for BDS and BSc Dental Therapy programmes? Joanne Bowles talks to Fiona Ellwood
Giving patients back their smile
Authors: Owolabi Nimota Olabisi
Published: March 2020

Nimota Olabisi Owolabi talks about the orthodontic therapist apprenticeship – a dental nurse career pathway
Communicating with phobic patients – a dental nurse's role
Authors: MacLeavy Christine
Published: March 2020

Dental therapist, tutor and coach Christine MacLeavy suggests the steps you can take to help with anxiety management in practice
Battling contagious diseases
Authors: Yates Laura
Published: March 2020

Laura Yates looks at precautions to take to prevent the spread of infection within the dental practice
Keep on moving
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: March 2020

In the first of three articles weighing the proposed changes to the EYFS, Sue Allingham digs deep into the importance of understanding the vital link between physical and intellectual development.
Where true power lies
Authors: Berliner Wendy
Published: March 2020

There is new evidence to suggest that schools should deploy their best teachers to Reception. A wide-scale research testifies to how children's progress at this stage can determine their future educational success, says Wendy Berliner.
Master bakers
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: March 2020

Easter baking is an opportunity to practise problem solving. Do children know what to do if they take their cakes out of the oven and they are not properly baked yet? How can they tell if a cake is cooked all the way through? It's time to decide!
Question of taste
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: March 2020

Children who can voice their opinion without fear of judgement become active and confident learners. Discussing their likes and dislikes develops expressive language skills and their understanding of their own – and others' – choices.
Take a walk
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: March 2020

The books of Emily Gravett provide a great focus for activities such as walking to the post box to post a letter home, going on a litter pick to clean up the environment or making and operating a finger puppet.
Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to decrease diabetic neuropathic pain
Authors: Ahmed Gehan Mousa , Maher Eman Ahmed , Elnassag Bassam Abd Elmaged Mohamed Refaat , Sayed Hayam Mahmoud , Kabbash Sara Ibrahim
Published: March 2020

Background/Aims

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation have been studied repeatedly to reduce diabetic neuropathic pain. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic training plus one of the treatment therapies on decreasing pain severity in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

A total of 30 patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy were randomly assigned into two equal groups: group A and group B. Both groups received aerobic training exercises. Group A received repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and Group B received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for 5 consecutive days in 1 week. Outcome measures included pain severity assessment using the Visual Analogue Scale and the serum β-endorphin levels.

Results

There was a non-significant difference in pre-treatment (P=0.061) and post-treatment (P=0.652) in the Visual Analogue Scale scores between groups. However, β-endorphin levels were significantly different between groups in post- (P=0.015) rather than pre-treatment (P=0.459) levels. A significant moderate correlation between β-endorphin levels and Visual Analogue Scale scores was found in group A (r=−0.6783) at (P=0.008), while it was not significant in group B (r=0.043) at (P=0.883).

Conclusions

Adding transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation therapies to aerobic training showed similar effects in reducing pain severity in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Total hip arthroplasty in sickle cell disease: a systematic review
Authors: Kenanidis Eustathios , Kapriniotis Konstantinos , Anagnostis Panagiotis , Potoupnis Michael , Christofilopoulos Panayiotis , Tsiridis Eleftherios
Published: March 2020

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients can be a challenging procedure. This systematic review evaluated the revision rate, functional outcomes and complications of THA in sicklers. A systematic search was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, using four search engines from inception to May 2019. Fifteen studies with 971 THAs were included. There were 437 cemented and 520 uncemented THAs. There were 164 revision THAs (16.8%); 52 uncemented and 105 cemented THAs. Forty-two infections were recorded; 16 infections for cemented and 23 for uncemented THAs. Fifty-seven cups, 26 stems, eight cup/stem with aseptic loosening that were more frequently cemented were reported. The 28 unspecified aseptic loosening cases were more frequently uncemented THAs. All studies demonstrated the functional improvement of patients. There were 109 medical complications (14.3%). Sickle cell crises (SCC) and transfusion reactions were most usually recorded. Forty-six intraoperative complications (4.7%) were reported; 18 femoral fractures, four acetabular and 18 femoral perforations. Seventeen femoral fractures occurred during uncemented THA. THA in SCD is still related to a high risk of complications. The outcomes in properly selected sicklers have been improved. Perioperative adequate hydration, warming, oxygen supply and transfusion protocols are mandated to prevent SCC and transfusion reactions. The surgeon must be prepared to deal with a high rate of intraoperative fractures and have different implant options readily available. No definite conclusion can be made regarding the best fixation mode. Cemented implants demonstrated a higher revision rate and uncemented implants a higher risk for intraoperative complications.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:180-188. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190038
Mobilising your phone’s technology (part 1)
Authors: Kerstein Ryan
Published: March 2020

Our resident gadget geek surveys the tech landscape
How Mr Slop identifies a difficult patient
Authors: Slop Mr
Published: March 2020

Our scribe reflects on medical litigation cases... can they be predicted?
In the wake of Paterson
Authors: Alderson Derek
Published: March 2020

The surgical community needs to embrace a culture of openness.
Transforming our London home: an update
Authors: Weller Jackie , Shearman Cliff
Published: March 2020

Bulletin latest on the changing home of surgery.
Compression of 3D dynamic holographic scenes in the Fresnel domain
Authors: Trejos Sorayda , Gómez Melisa , Velez-Zea Alejandro , Fredy Barrera-Ramírez John , Torroba Roberto
Published: March 2020

In this paper we present an optodigital protocol for the compression of 3D dynamic scenes recorded with an off-axis Fresnel holographic system. The compression protocol involves optical scaling, sampling with binary masks, and multiplexing of the optical field data obtained after a filtering process applied to Fresnel holograms. Volume reduction of up to 93.71% and a 16-fold decrease in the transfer time are achieved. Virtual-optical reconstruction is performed for different values of the parameters involved in the compression protocol. The correlation coefficient is used as a metric to measure the loss caused by the volume reduction process. Furthermore, we show that a high level of lossy compression can be achieved with this protocol, with better reconstruction quality than the MPEG-4 video compression technique. Finally, we perform the experimental reconstruction using a holographic projection system based on a phase-only spatial light modulator, thus highlighting the potential of our proposal.
Optical design of the visible telescope for the SVOM mission
Authors: Fan Xuewu , Zou Gangyi , Qiu Yulei , Pang Zhihai , Zhao Hui , Chen Qinfang , Pan Yue , Yuan Hao
Published: March 2020

This paper describes the optical design of the visible telescope (VT), which is the primary payload for the Chinese-French Space-based multi-band astronomical Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) mission, for the detection and observation of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts. The VT aims at reaching a limiting magnitude of

+

22

.

5

M
v

with the exposure time of 300 s in the 630 km Sun-synchronous orbit with an inclination of 30°. The VT, also known as the fine guidance sensor for the SVOM, aims to measure the relative performance error (RPE) of the platform during the tracking and provide the RPE to the platform to correct its stability. The optical design is presented in this paper. The mirror manufacture and test results are presented. The optical system performance, tolerance budget, thermal analysis, and stray light design of VT are fully analyzed. Finally, the diffraction encircled energy and point source transmittance are tested in the lab for the finished telescope.
Lidar measurements of the diffuse attenuation coefficient in Yellowstone Lake
Authors: Roddewig Michael R. , Churnside James H. , Shaw Joseph A.
Published: March 2020

Airborne lidar study of lake ecosystems is still a relatively unexplored field. In this paper we present measurements of the diffuse attenuation coefficient of downwelling irradiance (

K
d

) obtained using a 532 nm airborne lidar in flights during 2004 and 2016 over Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA. We compare the lidar measurements with MODIS

K
d

data, discuss the impact that local weather and river inflows/outflows may have had on the data, compare to previous models of the diffuse attenuation coefficient, and examine several published relationships converting

K
d

to Secchi disk depth.
High resolution 3D visualization of the spinal cord in a post-mortem murine model
Authors: Bukreeva Inna , Asadchikov Victor , Buzmakov Alexey , Chukalina Marina , Ingacheva Anastasya , Korolev Nikolay A. , Bravin Alberto , Mittone Alberto , Biella Gabriele E. M. , Sierra Alejandra , Brun Francesco , Massimi Lorenzo , Fratini Michela , Cedola Alessia
Published: March 2020

A crucial issue in the development of therapies to treat pathologies of the central nervous system is represented by the availability of non-invasive methods to study the three-dimensional morphology of spinal cord, with a resolution able to characterize its complex vascular and neuronal organization. X-ray phase contrast micro-tomography enables a high-quality, 3D visualization of both the vascular and neuronal network simultaneously without the need of contrast agents, destructive sample preparations or sectioning. Until now, high resolution investigations of the post-mortem spinal cord in murine models have mostly been performed in spinal cords removed from the spinal canal. We present here post-mortem phase contrast micro-tomography images reconstructed using advanced computational tools to obtain high-resolution and high-contrast 3D images of the fixed spinal cord without removing the bones and preserving the richness of micro-details available when measuring exposed spinal cords. We believe that it represents a significant step toward the in-vivo application.
Photoacoustic imaging of microenvironmental changes in facial cupping therapy
Authors: Zhou Yingying , Cao Fei , Li Huanhao , Huang Xiazi , Wei Dongshan , Wang Lidai , Lai Puxiang
Published: March 2020

As a traditional medicine practice, cupping therapy has been widely used to relieve symptoms like fatigue, tension, and muscle pain. During the therapy, negative pressure is applied to the skin for a while with an intention to enhance blood circulation or induce micro-bleeding. The therapeutic effect, however, is not clear due to the lack of direct quantification. Aiming at a quantitative assessment of the treatment effect, we explore optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR-PAM) in monitoring the structural and functional changes after cupping. We find that, after 5-minutes of ∼ 20 kPa negative pressure cupping, more capillaries appear in the focus, and micro-blooding is observed from the capillaries. We quantify the images and find the blood vessel density is increased by 64%, and the total hemoglobin concentration in both the veins and the arteries exhibits 62% and 40% elevation, respectively. Oxygen saturation in the vein and artery decreased by 17% and 3% right after cupping, respectively. After two hours of recovery, the three blood-related parameters return to their original levels, indicating that the effects in the tissue last only a short period after cupping at the given pressure and time duration. Note that no significant cupping marks are induced with the treatment parameters in this study. This work proposes OR-PAM to quantitatively monitor and evaluate the effect of cupping therapy from the perspective of imaging. The method is also useful for accurate control of the therapeutic outcome.
The Breakthrough Birth of Low-Loss Fiber Optics
Authors: Hecht Jeff
Published: March 2020

Once Charles Kao had identified the promise of glass for
communications, specialists in glass science took on the task of making
that promise a reality. A small group at Corning succeeded by taking a
contrarian approach.
La ciudad en América Latina: entre la globalización y la crisis
Authors: Díaz Orueta Fernando
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: Desde los años ochenta, diversas investigaciones vienen analizando el impacto provocado por la globalización económica sobre la urbanización. También en las ciudades latinoamericanas se observan nuevas tendencias en cuanto a la estructuración del sistema territorial. El proceso de "modernización excluyente" impulsado en los últimos años, ha agravado la crisis social en las ciudades. Si en los próximos años se pretende comenzar a resolver los graves problemas urbanos existentes, debería producirse un importante giro en la orientación de las actuales políticas urbanas.ABSTRACT: Since the cighties, different researchs have studied the economic globalization impact on the urbanization. Latinoamerican cities are subject to the new tendencias as well. "Exclusive modernization" process is making worse the urban social crisis. In order to solve the very serious urban problems, it s necessary to change the orientation of the present urban politics.
La experiencia del partido dos trabalhadores en la alcadía de Sao Paulo
Authors: Kowarick Lúcio , Singer André
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: En este artículo, Lucio Kowarick y André Singer analizan la gestión del Partido dos Trabalhadores en la Alcaldía de Sao Paulo encabezada por Luiza Erundina. Con esta evaluación pretenden conocer la acción del PT a través de uno de sus principales elementos de construcción del PT, el gobierno de las ciudades, que complementa a los otros dos, la vinculación con los movimientos sindicales y populares y la acción parlamentaria.ABSTRACT: In this article, Lucio Kowarick and Andre Singer analyses the government of Sao Paulo by Partido dos Trabalhadores, with Luiza Erundina. With this evaluation, they try to know the action of PT through one of the main elements of contruction of PT, the government of cities. The other are links with trade unions and popular movements and parliamentarian action.
¿Existen movimientos sociales?
Authors: Díez Rodríguez Ángeles
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: La autora trata de ubicar la discusión teórica y proponer un nuevo ángulo de lectura de los "movimientos sociales". Piensa que el debate sobre el fenómeno se inscribe en dos coordenadas: la integración social y la constitución de los skietos de la acción social. Después de repasar la emergencia de los llamados "movimientos sociales" y rescatar algunos puntos como la cuestión de las identidades y las motivaciones, concluye que el concepto que se utiliza para designar una realidad tan compleja puede llegar a ser una trampa que empobrezca la realidad en vez de dotarla de nuevos contenidos.
Memoría y Política: Movimientos de Derechos Humanos y Construcción Democrática
Authors: Jelin Elizabeth , Azcarate Pablo de
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: Los derechos humanos y el movimiento social nucleado en torno a ellos, que han venido ocupando un lugar central en Argentina desde finales de los 70, constituyen el campo de análisis de este artículo. Lo peculiar -a la vez que sugerente- de este trabajo, es el aspecto espectrwo de atencián; pues se trata de descubrir las relaciones que, manifestadas en el accionar del movimiento social en la dictadura y en la democracia, se dan entre su rol político y su rol de reivindicacián de la memoria colectiva, entre el pragmatismo político y las demandas de no-olvido basadas en valores éticos de verdad y justieia. La perspectiva, que pudiera parecer abstracta, tiene una extensa base documental y conlleva conclusiones eminentemente prácticas.ABSTRACT: Since the arad of the 70's the human rights and the social movement around them have been very important in Argentina. This article analyses them particulary trying to discover the relations mantfested in the move of the social movement along the dictatorship and democracy, between its political role arul its role to claim the colective memory, between the political pragmatism and the claims of non forgetfulness found on the ethnic values of truth and justice. The perspective, altrough it could be seen to be abstract, has a vast documentary base and gives conclusions highly practical.
Problemáticas y Alternativas Culturales de los Nuevos MovImlentos Sociales
Authors: Castagnola José Luis
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: El presente artículo, se centra en la discusión de algunos componentes culturales que el autor considera centrales para comprender la dificultad que evidencian en la actualidad los movimientos sociales para redefinir sus pautas de acción y su discurso en el nuevo contexto democrático. Todo ello asume como punto de partida e intenta, a la vez, fundar la tesis de que un aspecto central de la pérdida de dinarnismo y convocatoria de los Movimientos Sociales en situaciones postautoritarias está constituido por la carencia de un marco de referencia cultural.ABSTRACT: The present paper focuses on the debate of some cultural components that the author considers essential in order to understand the difflculty that the social movements shows today to recreate their actions in the new dernocratic context. The author tries to defend the thesis that a central aspect of the lost of dinamism of the social movements in postauthoritarian situations is based in the absence of a cultural reference.
De Pobladores a Cludadanos. Una discusión sobre las relaciones entre democratización y procesos de urbanización a partir de la experiencia venezolana
Authors: Negrón Marco
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: En Venezuela coexiste la ciudad "legal" y la ciudad "ilegal", dicotomkt que plantea el problema de la legitimidad de los procesos de urbanización. Las interpretaciones convencionales al igual que las poltticas territoriales de los allos sesenta y setenta, han dado respuestas insatisfactorias a esta dualidad. Sin embargo, ante la evidencia de una realidad anica e indisoluble de "tunbas ciudades" y la falsas identidad entre ciudad "ilegal" y marginalidad, la única opción realista está en manos de las autoridades urbanas. Estas deben orientar el crecimiento de las grandes ciudades favoreciendo la consolidación de la ciudad "ilegal", mediante su legaliz,ación e integración física y el reconocimiento de los derechos ciudadanos de sus pobladores.ABSTRACT: The "legal" city and tize "illegal" city coexist in Venezuela. This dicothomy suggests the problem of legitimacy in the urbanUation processes. The traditional interpretations and territorial politics of the sixties and seventies have not made a satisfactory answer for this duality. Nevertheless both cities are an unique and indissoluble reality. The unique and real option belongs to the urban authorities. They must manage the big cities growth in order to encourage the consoliclation of the "illegal" city by means of its legalization and physical integration and guaranty of citizen rights.
Partidos políticos, élites parlamentarias y clases sociales en Centroamérica
Authors: Alcántara Sáez Manuel , Llamazares Valduvieco Iván
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: El artículo tiene como objeto caracterizar social y económicamente los partidos y los sistemas de partidos de cuatro países centroamericanos (Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica y Honduras), de tradición democrática dispar a través de una serie de análisis referido a sus respectivas élites parlamentarias. Dichos estudios pretenden mostrar la vinculación entre el origen socioeconómico de los diputados, sus orientaciones político-ideológicas, la dinámica política de cada país y las características de su sistema de partidos.ABSTRACT: This article analyses some socio-economic, political and ideological characteristics of the members of parliament of four Central American countries (Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Honduras). This analysis tries to define the degree to which political parties have elitist or non-elitist social characteristics. On the basis of that analysis, this article distinguishes among some political party ideal-types. Finally, this article links the specific characteristics of each Central American political party to the political trajectory of each Latin American society.
Elecciones, partidos políticos y democracia en los paises andinos
Authors: Murillo Castaño Gabriel
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: El proceso democrático en América Latina debe salvar dos escollos para cimentarse definitivamente. El primer obstáculo tiene que ver con la debilidad del sistema de partidos atacado por vicios y escisiones lo cual ha impedido la representación de la sociedad civil en la toma de decisiones gubernamentales. El segundo tropiezo que ha soportado el naciente proceso democrático de la última década es el atinente a la falta de acciones gubernativas de largo plazo que logren postular coherentemente derroteros claros y precisos para el pleno desarrollo de cada país. No obstante, a pesar de los inconvenientes y las amenazas que ensombrecen el panorama democrático de la subregión andina, es razonable pensar que la democracia se consolidará paulatinamente intentando conciliar el sistema de partidos con una sana gobernabilidad para que ambos elementos no giren como ruedas sueltas del engranaje de la participación ciudadana.ABSTRACT: The democratic process in Latin America must successfully confront to problems in order to achieve a definitive consolidation. The first obstacle stems from the weakness of party systems undermined by vices and divisions that have impeded the representation of civil society in the making of governmental decisions. The second problem facing the novel democratic process of the past decade is the lack of long-term government actions that achieve clear and precise gools for the full development of each country. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties and dangers that darken the horizons of the democratic process in the Andean subregion, it is reasonable to think that real democracy will slowly consolidate, making an effort to conciliate the party system with a healthy governability in such a way that neither element will spin off like a loose wheel in the face of citizen participation.
El fenómeno Fujimori y la crisis política en el Perú
Authors: Bueno León Eduardo
Published: March 2020

RESUMEN: En el presente trabajo, se analizan las causas que determinan el fenómeno Fujimori en la coyuntura electoral de 1989- 90. Se plantea la tesis que la "Fujimorización" se produce al confluir tendencias sociales democratizadoras y políticamente excluídas con un generalizado rechazo popular al estamento político. El fenómeno "integra" estas variables y desarticula la escena electoral que se presentaba artificialmente definida. Se plantea de esta forma, la posibilidad de la relegitimación del escenario político peruano y la afirmación autónoma de nuevos actores sociales y políticos.ABSTRACT: In this article, the author studies the causes which determined the phenomenon "Fujimori" in Peru in the 1989-90 elections. The main thesis is that "Fujimorización" arised in a context where different social democratic and politically excluded tendencies gathered with a popular rejection to the political class. This phenomenon "integrated" these variables and it produced a desarticulation of the electoral scene which was presented as artificially defined. In the new context it is posible to relegitimate the Perurian political scene and the autonomous assert of the new social and political actors.