bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Video Prompts to Promote Independent Behavior in Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Delisio Lauren A. , Isenhower Robert W.
Published: April 2020

In order to best serve students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), teachers and other in-school support personnel need to identify and effectively implement evidence-based practices (EBPs) in their classrooms. One EBP for students with ASD is video-based instruction, including video prompting, a form of video modeling. The authors provide considerations that one must think through prior to implementing video prompts as an intervention, and illustrate how video prompts can be used in the classroom through a vignette of an adolescent student with ASD learning to independently complete vocational tasks.
The Intrinsic Value of Valuable Paper: On the Infrastructural Work of Authentication Devices
Authors: Kaminska Aleksandra
Published: April 2020

Authentication devices transform cheap paper into legitimate documents. They are the sensory, informational, and computational features that make up valuable papers like banknotes and passports, and they provide the confidence required in moments of exchange and passage. These devices – which include techniques like watermarks and specialized threads, proprietary substrates and inks, or RFID chips – are the product of security printing, an industry that continuously reinvents the possibilities of paper. Importantly, these components protect paper things from counterfeiting, allowing it to function as an original and authentic copy and to do the logistical work of connecting quotidian materials to global networks. The value of valuable papers is therefore not purely extrinsic, socially or discursively established, but is also performed through its intrinsic material qualities. These are the authentication devices that are read, assessed, and trusted as paper things are circulated, and they are what securely connects paper to infrastructures of mobility.
Urban regeneration as a perpetual planning process: Understanding the role of stakeholders in property-led regeneration projects in Greek cities
Authors: Yiannakou Athena
Published: April 2020

Urban regeneration has been at the forefront of urban planning and development in European cities for many decades and is strongly connected to property-led development, with the involvement of various stakeholders. In Greece, urban regeneration, as a public policy response to large-scale abandonment and dereliction of urban land, has not been successful so far. The Greek planning system and its provisions for renewal of degraded urban areas have for long been regarded as an obstacle to the implementation of urban regeneration projects. The reform of the planning system in the 2010s introduced some critical changes, with an emphasis on larger-scale development, but with no particular focus on urban regeneration. Using two case studies of regeneration projects in the city of Thessaloniki, this paper attempts to provide an insight into the role of the various stakeholders in such projects. It is argued that in these projects, each stakeholder, irrespective of its character, acts as distinct interest group which develops only binary relations with other stakeholders. Thus, the regeneration project becomes a platform upon which each stakeholder aims to secure its power, instead of a coordinated multi-stakeholder process with a framework for sharing the costs and benefits of its implementation.
Alcohol consumption may not affect the diameter of the coronary arteries in men with chest pain
Authors: Yang Xin , Gao Ling-Yun , Qin Shu , Ma Kang-Hua , Luo Su-Xin , Qin Chun-Chang
Published: April 2020

Objective

The effect of alcohol consumption on the risk of coronary heart disease is controversial. Several studies have assessed the effects of alcohol on the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, but few studies have evaluated the chronic effects of alcohol consumption on the coronary artery diameter. We investigated whether alcohol consumption affects the coronary artery diameter.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled men who were undergoing coronary angiography at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from November 2016 to December 2017. The participants were categorized into three groups based on their drinking behavior: heavy drinking (>175 g/week in the last 2 years, n = 70), moderate drinking (>42 to ≤175 g/week in the last 2 years, n = 53), and nondrinking (lifetime alcohol consumption of <98 g, n = 79). The diameters of the left and right coronary arteries were compared among the three groups.

Results

No significant differences in the diameters of the left and right coronary arteries were observed among the three groups.

Conclusions

Alcohol consumption may not affect the diameter of the coronary arteries.
Self-Forgiveness Among Incarcerated Individuals in Ghana: Relations With Shame- and Guilt-Proneness
Authors: Osei-Tutu Annabella , Cowden Richard G. , Kwakye-Nuako Charlotte O. , Gadze Jeremiah , Oppong Seth , Worthington Everett L.
Published: April 2020

Research on the forgiveness of self has largely focused on less severe, more common types of offenses among samples within developed westernized nations. In this brief report of a study within a developing nation in Africa, applications of self-forgiveness are extended to incarcerated people. The sample comprised N = 310 males (83.87%) and females (16.13%) who were incarcerated in a medium-security Ghanaian prison ( Mage = 39.35, SDage = 13.28). Participants completed measures of self-forgiveness, shame-proneness, and guilt-proneness. Prison records were examined for criminal history details. We hypothesized that self-forgiveness would correlate negatively with shame-proneness and positively with guilt-proneness. We tentatively hypothesized that this association would be moderated by offense type. Self-forgiveness correlated with both shame- and guilt-proneness in the hypothesized direction. However, neither association was moderated by type of offense. The findings offer further evidence on the salience of self-conscious emotions in forgiving oneself, particularly among incarcerated offender populations. We discuss the implications of the findings for enhancing offender rehabilitation initiatives.
Development of shape memory alloy-based adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics by means of open reed weaving technology
Authors: Ashir Moniruddoza , Cherif Chokri
Published: April 2020

The functionalization of fiber-reinforced plastics has been improved continuously in recent years in order to broaden their application potential. By using shape memory alloys in fiber-reinforced plastics, adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics can be developed, which in turn can change their shape depending on the activation of shape memory alloys. In order to ensure the proper force transmission from shape memory alloys to fiber-reinforced plastic, these shape memory alloys need to be integrated into the reinforcing fabric. Hence, this paper presents the application of open reed weaving technology for the development of functionalized preforms for adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics. For an optimized shape memory effect during their thermal induced activation, the shape memory alloys were coated with release agent and then integrated into the woven fabric by open reed weaving technology. The hinged width of functionalized preforms was varied from 50 mm to 150 mm. These preforms were infused by a thermosetting resin matrix system with a modifier. Subsequently, the electro-mechanical testing of adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics was executed. Results show that the maximum deformation of adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics was proportional to their hinged width.
Do Recent Experiences of Sexual Violence and Co-Occurring Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Predict Poorer Functioning One Year Later During the Transition to Young Adulthood?
Authors: Davis Jordan P. , Pedersen Eric R. , Rodriguez Anthony , Tucker Joan S. , Seelam Rachana , Shih Regina , D’Amico Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2020

Sexual violence (SV) is a public health concern for youth. Few longitudinal studies address how experiences of SV and co-occurring depression and anxiety symptoms in early young adulthood may contribute to poorer functioning in young adulthood. Using a sample of 2,416 youth aged 18 to 20 (Time 1), we assessed past year SV and co-occurring depression and anxiety symptoms. One year later, when youth were between the ages of 20 and 22 (Time 2), participants indicated their functioning in four domains: physical health and sleep quality, substance use consequences, psychological functioning, and social functioning. Using latent class analyses, we found six participant classes at Time 1 based on SV experiences and co-occurring depression and anxiety symptoms. Classes were variable by participants’ reported degree of SV experiences and co-occurring depression and anxiety symptomology. Longitudinal analyses indicated that youth in a class that experienced high levels of both SV and co-occurring depression and anxiety at Time 1 generally reported the poorest functioning in all key domains at Time 2. However, classes where participants reported greater depression and anxiety symptoms—most often in the presence of, but at times in the absence of, SV—were consistently associated with poorer functioning for physical health, psychological functioning, and social health. Classes where participants reported greater SV—in the presence of, but at times in the absence of, depression and anxiety symptoms—were associated with greater alcohol and marijuana consequences. Findings suggest prevention of SV, accessible counseling for those that have experienced SV, and screening to identify and intervene to address depression and anxiety may all be essential to help prevent poorer functioning in young adulthood.
Predicting lean blow-off limit of gas turbine combustors based on Damköhler number and detailed atomization information
Authors: Wang Zhonghao , Hu Bin , Fang Aibing , Deng Aiming , Zhang Junhua , Zhao Qingjun
Published: April 2020

A hybrid lean blow-off prediction method based on Damköhler ( Da) number was proposed in the authors’ previous study. However, the uniform model for fuel drop size distribution cannot fully reflect the actual atomization quality under lean blow-off conditions, which has negative effects on prediction accuracy. In the current study, atomization experiments are conducted under different fuel supply pressure. The atomization quality is described by Rosin–Rammler model and is integrated into numerical simulation. The calculation method of chemical time scale ( τc) is improved by accurately differentiating the inlet and outlet surface of reaction zone. After the improvement, the Da number under lean blow-off conditions mainly lies between 0.3 and 0.8, while under the designing condition, the Da number is about 20. Compared with the former method, the optimized method in the present article can distinguish stable combustion states markedly from lean blow-off states. Through the introduction of detailed atomization information and the improvement of time scale calculation, lean blow-off prediction accuracy in the present work is efficiently improved, which can provide powerful technical support for engineering applications.
Disease activity-dependent expression of nerve growth factor TRKA and P75 receptors on elevated dendritic cells and peripheral leucocytes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Welle Stefanie , Wolf Anna M , Dernbach Christian , Klarmann-Schulz Ute , Seidel Matthias F
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The nervous system modulates rheumatic diseases in neurogenic inflammation (NI). Nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a pivotal role in NI and chronic nociceptive pain. However, the role of NGF in autoimmune inflammatory diseases is not well understood. The aim of this study was to analyse NGF high- (TrkA) and low-affinity (p75) receptors on all major leucocyte subsets of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as a potential indicator of NI.

Methods

A total of 13 patients were analysed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting and compared to 13 healthy control (HC) subjects. Patients were also stratified for high or low disease activity (CRP, ESR, SLEDAI, ANA, anti-dsDNA and C3/C4). Statistics included the Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results

When comparing patients and HC, TrkA was not differentially expressed. In contrast, p75 was increased on CD16+ and CD56+ leucocytes in patients. CD11c+ dendritic cells (DC) were in total increased in SLE. DCs were also significantly elevated in active patients. Furthermore, we found an intermediate CD11b+ population strongly expressing TrkA in patients and HC.

Conclusion

We demonstrate for the first time differential NGF receptor expression in SLE. The increased CD11c+ DCs might indicate additional activation in SLE.
Current opinion on hydroxychloroquine-related retinal toxicity screening: where do we stand now?
Authors: Aduriz-Lorenzo Patricio M , Aduriz-Llaneza Paula , Araiz-Iribarren Javier , Khamashta Munther A
Published: April 2020

Here, we review current hydroxychloroquine screening guidelines and controversies regarding specific screening tests and acceptance of the guidelines. Screening tests are described, and their predictive results are analysed, with special emphasis on early changes. Further research is needed to come to a conclusion about the efficacy of the new proposed dose.
The effects and safety of telerehabilitation in patients with lower-limb joint replacement: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Jansson Miia M , Rantala Arja , Miettunen Jouko , Puhto Ari-Pekka , Pikkarainen Minna
Published: April 2020

Introduction

As the number of patients undergoing primary lower-limb joint replacement has risen continuously, hospital-based healthcare resources have become limited. Delivery of any ongoing rehabilitation needs to adapt to this trend. This systematic literature aimed to examine the effects and safety of telerehabilitation in patients with lower-limb joint replacement.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted according to procedures by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Studies published prior to February 2020 were identified from Medline Ovid, Scopus, Ebsco Databases and Web of Science. Reference lists of relevant studies were also manually checked to find additional studies. Two researchers conducted study selection separately. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Randomized Controlled Trials was used to evaluate the quality of the relevant studies published. A narrative synthesis was used to report the results whereas effect sizes were estimated for different outcomes.

Results

Nine studies with 1266 patients were included. Study quality was predominantly affected by the lack of blinding. The patients who completed telerehabilitation showed an improvement in physical functioning that was similar to that of patients completing conventional in-person outpatient physical therapy without an increase in adverse events or resource utilization. The effect of telerehabilitation on physical functioning, however, was assessed as heterogeneous and moderate- to low-quality evidence.

Discussion

Telerehabilitation is a practical alternative to conventional in-person outpatient physical therapy in patients with lower-limb joint replacement. However, more robust studies are needed to build evidence about telerehabilitation.
Mental health problems among children in Sierra Leone: Assessing cultural concepts of distress
Authors: Thulin Elyse J , McLean Kristen E , Sevalie Stephen , Akinsulure-Smith Adeyinka M , Betancourt Theresa S
Published: April 2020

Globally, over 13% of children and adolescents are affected by mental disorders, yet relatively little scholarship addresses how risk factors, symptoms, and nosology vary by culture and context, especially in young children living in post-conflict and low-resource settings. To address this gap, we conducted a qualitative study to identify and describe the most salient mental health problems facing children aged 6 to 10 years in Sierra Leone, as well as the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to these problems. Free list interviews ( N = 200) and semi-structured interviews ( N = 66) were conducted among caregivers, children, and other relevant key informants to explore risk factors and locally meaningful concepts of distress. Our findings indicate that children are faced with a variety of challenges in their social environments that contribute to distress, including hunger, unmet material needs, and excessive work. Our research identifies five contextually defined mental health problems faced by young children: gbos gbos (angry, destructive behavior), poil at (sad, disruptive behavior), diskoraj (sad, withdrawn), wondri (excessive worry), and fred fred (abnormal fear). The manifestations of these distress concepts are described in detail and contextualized according to Sierra Leone’s history of war and current backdrop of poverty and insecurity. Implications are discussed for locally relevant diagnosis and treatment as well as for the wider literature on global child mental health.
The role of geographical clusters in the success of reward-based crowdfunding campaigns
Authors: Carbonara Nunzia
Published: April 2020

Crowdfunding is a relatively new phenomenon, which disrupted the classic way to fund a venture. It consists in retrieving the capital needed to start an entrepreneurial activity drawing funds from a large base of small investors – generally common people – rather than from the traditional financial sources. Although many studies have been conducted on this topic, little focus has been put on the geography of this phenomenon. This article addresses this issue analysing whether regions characterized by the presence of geographical clusters are able to raise the probability of a successful crowdfunding campaign for projects located there. Drawing on a data set of 792 crowdfunded projects, we conduct an empirical study aimed at studying the role played by geographical clusters in fostering the crowdfunding of new entrepreneurial ventures. The results offer insights into the phenomenon of crowdfunding and shed light on the role of geographical clusters in the success of reward-based crowdfunding campaigns of early-stage entrepreneurial projects.
Effect of used motor oil as a rejuvenator on crumb rubber modifier’s released components to asphalt binder
Authors: Deef-Allah Eslam , Abdelrahman Magdy
Published: April 2020

Asphalt binder modification by crumb rubber modifier (CRM) could enhance its rheological properties at high and intermediate temperatures by increasing its stiffness and elasticity. To obtain a modified binder blend with more enhanced intermediate- and low-temperature rheological properties, used motor oil (UMO) was introduced to the crumb rubber-modified asphalt (CRMA) binder. The enhanced high- and intermediate-temperature rheological properties of the modified binders were investigated using a temperature sweep test. UMO, used as a rejuvenator, can regulate the CRM role in the modified binder blend by creating a balance between the binder’s enhanced stiffness and fluidity. This was achieved by increasing |G*|/sin δ at high temperatures and decreasing |G*|.sin δ at intermediate temperatures. The mutual components between the CRM and the asphalt binder were explored by thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. UMO was found to have similar FTIR bands of the asphalt binder that helped the CRM particles to absorb more low-molecular-weight fractions at the beginning of the interaction time, which caused them to swell more and then dissolve, releasing their polymeric components in the asphalt binder’s liquid phase. Adding UMO with two and half percentage by the weight of the neat asphalt binder to the CRMA binder, interacted at 190°C–50 Hz–60 min, could increase the CRM dissolution and cause a greater release of CRM polymeric components into the asphalt binder matrix. This was assured by the presence of FTIR peaks at 911 and 966 cm−1 that are related to the polybutadiene, synthetic rubber in CRM.
The Influence of the President and Government Coalition on Roll-Call Voting in Brazil, 2003–2006
Authors: Tsai Tsung-han
Published: April 2020

In Brazil’s legislative process, political exchanges between the government and legislature is an essential feature. This article focuses on the role of the president and political parties in Brazil’s national legislative process. Because nonideological factors influence voting, roll calls do not suffice for estimation of legislators’ policy preferences. In this article, we derive a spatial model of voting in which voting behavior is induced by both ideological motivations and coalition dynamics and develop a multilevel ideal-point model implied by the spatial voting model. After the proposed model is applied to the analysis of roll-call votes in the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies between 2003 and 2006, coalition dynamics is found to influence the voting behavior of legislators. We also confirm the finding in previous studies that the ideological alignment of political parties in the legislature contrasts with the perceived positions.
Common Academic Experiences No One Talks About: Repeated Rejection, Impostor Syndrome, and Burnout
Authors: Jaremka Lisa M. , Ackerman Joshua M. , Gawronski Bertram , Rule Nicholas O. , Sweeny Kate , Tropp Linda R. , Metz Molly A. , Molina Ludwin , Ryan William S. , Vick S. Brooke
Published: April 2020

Academic life is full of learning, excitement, and discovery. However, academics also experience professional challenges at various points in their career, including repeated rejection, impostor syndrome, and burnout. These negative experiences are rarely talked about publicly, creating a sense of loneliness and isolation for people who presume they are the only ones affected by such setbacks. However, nearly everyone has these experiences at one time or another; therefore, talking about them should be a normal part of academic life. The goal of this article is to explore and destigmatize the common experiences of rejection, impostor syndrome, and burnout by sharing a collection of short personal stories from scholars at various stages of their careers with various types of academic positions. Josh Ackerman, Kate Sweeny, and Ludwin Molina discuss how they have dealt with repeated rejection. Linda Tropp, Nick Rule, and Brooke Vick share experiences with impostor syndrome. Finally, Bertram Gawronski, Lisa Jaremka, Molly Metz, and Will Ryan discuss how they have experienced burnout.
Equipment modification can enhance skill learning in young field hockey players
Authors: Brocken JEA , van der Kamp J , Lenoir M , Savelsbergh GJP
Published: April 2020

The aim of the study was to investigate whether performance of children can be improved by training with modified equipment that challenges movement execution. For that purpose, young field hockey players practiced with a modified and a regular hockey ball. The modified hockey ball enforces more variable movement execution during practice by rolling less predictably than a regular hockey ball and, thus, challenges the players’ stick–ball control. Two groups of 7- to 9-year old children, with 0 to 4 years of experience, participated in a crossover-design, in which they either received four training sessions with the modified ball followed by four training sessions with the regular ball or vice versa. In a pretest, intermediate test (i.e. following the first four training sessions) and a posttest, the participants dribbled an obstacle parcours with a regular ball. Results show that practice with the modified ball led to greater performance improvement than the intervention with the regular hockey ball. This performance improvement, however, was not predicted by experience and/or initial skill (i.e. pretest score). The findings indicate that by using modified equipment, sport trainers and physical education teachers can, presumably through enhancement of movement variability during practice, stimulate skill acquisition in young children.
Is training age predictive of physiological performance changes in developmental rugby league players? A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Booth Mark , Cobley Stephen , Halaki Mark , Orr Rhonda
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to determine if training age – rugby league training age, resistance training age and cardiovascular training age – was predictive of changes in physiological performance in developmental rugby league players. Developmental rugby league players from one elite club ( n = 147, mean age = 15.8 ± 1.1 years) playing at Under 16 and Under 18 representative levels were tracked longitudinally over two consecutive seasons. Estimated aerobic capacity, jump height, upper body strength endurance and change of direction were assessed. Mixed method random effect analysis determined relationships between training age domains and physiological change. Positive relationships were observed between rugby league training age and change in estimated V̇O2max ( β = 0.13, p =  0.018), and change in strength endurance ( β = 0.51, p =  0.033), and resistance training age and change in jump height ( β = 0.11, p =  0.007). A negative relationship was observed between rugby league training age with change in change of direction time ( β = –0.06, p =  0.026). Moderate pre-season training effect sizes were identified for change of direction (effect size = –0.42, confidence interval (CI) = –0.8 to 0.1) and jump height (effect size = 0.41, CI = 0.1–0.7), while small pre-season training effect size was apparent for strength endurance (effect size = 0.33, CI = 0.0–0.7) and estimated V̇O2max (effect size = 0.16). Small in-season performance decrements occurred in strength endurance (effect size = –0.23, CI = –0.6 to 0.1) and change of direction (effect size = 0.30, CI = –0.1 to 0.7). Higher pre-study rugby league training age was associated with greater improvements in estimated V̇O2max, strength endurance and change of direction. Additionally, higher resistance training age was associated with greater improvements in vertical jump. Overall, the magnitude of resistance training age and cardiovascular training age may have been too inadequate to meaningfully impact training adaptations in the population. Decrease in effect size for physiological performance changes during the in-season phase suggests that performance enhancements were not maintained across the competitive season.
Safety and Functional Integrity of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Components After Simulated Radiologic Procedures
Authors: Thomas Christopher , Welsh John B. , Lu Spencer , Gray J. Michael
Published: April 2020

Background:

We investigated wearable components of the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) System in simulated therapeutic and diagnostic radiologic procedures.

Methods:

G6 transmitters were loaded with simulated glucose data and attached to sensors. Sets of sensor/transmitter pairs were exposed to x-rays to simulate a radiotherapeutic procedure and to radiofrequency (RF) and magnetic fields to simulate diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The x-ray simulation provided a cumulative dose of 80 Gy. The MRI simulation used RF fields oscillating at 64 or 128 MHz and magnetic fields of 1.5 or 3 T. During the MRI simulation, displacement force, induced heating, and induced currents were measured. After the simulations, bench tests were used to assess data integrity on the transmitters and responsiveness of sensors to various concentrations of aqueous glucose.

Results:

Glucose concentrations reported by sensor/transmitter pairs after undergoing x-irradiation or a simulated MRI exam were similar to those from control (unexposed) devices. During the 3 T MRI simulation, the devices experienced a displacement force of 306 g, which was insufficient to dislodge the sensor/transmitter from the substrate, RF-induced heating of <2°C, and an induced current of <16 pA. Data stored on the transmitters prior to the MRI simulation remained intact.

Conclusion:

Wearable components of the G6 CGM System retain basic functionality and data integrity after exposure to simulated therapeutic and diagnostic radiologic procedures. The devices are unlikely to be affected by x-irradiation used in typical imaging studies. Simulated MRI procedures create displacement force, minimal heating, and current in sensor/transmitter pairs.
Workplace team resilience: A systematic review and conceptual development
Authors: Hartwig Angelique , Clarke Sharon , Johnson Sheena , Willis Sara
Published: April 2020

Workplace team resilience has been proposed as a potential asset for work teams to maintain performance in the face of adverse events. Nonetheless, the research on team resilience has been conceptually and methodologically inconsistent. Taking a multilevel perspective, we present an integrative review of the workplace team resilience literature to identify the conceptual nature of team resilience and its unique value over and above personal resilience as well as other team concepts. We advance resilience research by providing a new multilevel model of team resilience that offers conceptual clarification regarding the relationship between individual-level and team-level resilience. The results of our review may form the basis for the development of a common operationalization of team resilience, which facilitates new empirical research examining ways that teams can improve their adversity management in the workplace.
A Study and Analysis of the Treatment of Mexican Unaccompanied Minors by Customs and Border Protection
Authors: Coulter Kiera , Sabo Samantha , Martínez Daniel , Chisholm Katelyn , Gonzalez Kelsey , Bass Zavala Sonia , Villalobos Edrick , Garcia Diego , Levy Taylor , Slack Jeremy
Published: April 2020

Executive Summary

The routine human rights abuses and due process violations of unaccompanied alien children (UAC) by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have contributed to a mounting humanitarian and legal crisis along the US–Mexico border. In the United States, the treatment of UAC is governed by laws, policies, and standards drawn from the Flores Settlement, the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), and CBP procedures and directives, which are intended to ensure UAC’s protection, well-being, and ability to pursue relief from removal, such as asylum. As nongovernmental organizations and human rights groups have documented, however, CBP has repeatedly violated these legal standards and policies, and subjected UAC to abuses and rights violations. This article draws from surveys of 97 recently deported Mexican UAC, which examine their experiences with US immigration authorities. The study finds that Mexican UAC are detained in subpar conditions, are routinely not screened for fear of return to their home countries or for human trafficking, and are not sufficiently informed about the deportation process. The article recommends that CBP should take immediate steps to improve the treatment of UAC, that CBP and other entities responsible for the care of UAC be monitored to ensure their compliance with US law and policy, and that Mexican UAC be afforded the same procedures and protection under the TVPRA as UAC from noncontiguous states.
A Monoclinic V1-x-yTixRuyO2 Thin Film with Enhanced Thermal-Sensitive Performance
Authors: Li Yatao , Gu Deen , Xu Shiyang , Zhou Xin , Yuan Kai , Jiang Yadong
Published: April 2020

Preparing the thermal-sensitive thin films with high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) and low resistivity by a highly compatible process is favorable for increasing the sensitivity of microbolometers with small pixels. Here, we report an effective and process-compatible approach for preparing V1-x-yTixRuyO2thermal-sensitive thin films with monoclinic structure, high TCR, and low resistivity through a reactive sputtering process followed by annealing in oxygen atmosphere at 400 °C. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates that Ti4+and Ru4+ions are combined into VO2. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy reveal that V1-x-yTixRuyO2thin films have a monoclinic lattice structure as undoped VO2. But V1-x-yTixRuyO2thin films exhibit no-SMT feature from room temperature (RT) to 106 °C due to the pinning effect of high-concentration Ti in monoclinic lattice. Moreover, RT resistivity of the V0.8163Ti0.165Ru0.0187O2thin film is only one-eighth of undoped VO2thin film, and its TCR is as high as 3.47%/°C.
Knowledge of and attitudes towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation among junior doctors and medical students in Upper Egypt: cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammed Zeinab , Arafa Ahmed , Saleh Yaseen , Dardir Mohamed , Taha Asmaa , Shaban Hassnaa , AbdelSalam Eman Mohammed , Hirshon Jon Mark
Published: April 2020

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a fundamental skill that should be acquired by all medical community members. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of junior doctors and medical students towards CPR and CPR training at Beni-Suef University Hospital in Upper Egypt, a representative region with conditions common to LMIC settings.

Participants and methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 205 participants (60 junior doctors and 145 medical students) responded to a self-administered questionnaire assessing their knowledge regarding basic life support (BLS) and CPR techniques in neonates, children, and adults, in addition to attitudes towards the importance and necessity of CPR and CPR training.

Results

Of the 60 junior doctors that participated in the study, only 31.7% had adequate knowledge of CPR, but up to 95% reported positive attitudes towards CPR training. Among the 145 medical student participants, only 6.2% had adequate knowledge of CPR, while 91% reported positive attitudes towards training. Deficiencies in CPR knowledge were more apparent in questions related to CPR in children and neonates. Junior doctors and medical students with previous CPR training demonstrated significantly better CPR knowledge than their counterparts without prior training. A statistically significant positive correlation was detected between CPR knowledge and attitude towards CPR training among medical students (r = 0.41, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate suboptimal and inadequate CPR knowledge among junior doctors and medical students in a representative hospital in Upper Egypt. However, participants reported overwhelmingly positive attitudes and eagerness towards the implementation of CPR training. Further research needs to be done to establish CPR skill proficiency as well as to investigate barriers to CPR training, effectiveness of available programs, and the potential implementation of such a program in Egypt and other LMICs.
The functions of ocu-miR-205 in regulating hair follicle development in Rex rabbits
Authors: Liu Gongyan , Li Shu , Liu Hongli , Zhu Yanli , Bai Liya , Sun Haitao , Gao Shuxia , Jiang Wenxue , Li Fuchang
Published: April 2020

Background

Hair follicles are an appendage of the vertebrate epithelium in the skin that arise from the embryonic ectoderm and regenerate cyclically during adulthood. Dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are the key dermal component of the hair follicle that directly regulate hair follicle development, growth and regeneration. According to recent studies, miRNAs play an important role in regulating hair follicle morphogenesis and the proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of hair follicle stem cells.

Results

The miRNA expression profile of the DPCs from Rex rabbits with different hair densities revealed 240 differentially expressed miRNAs (|log2(HD/LD)| > 1.00 and Q-value≤0.001). Among them, ocu-miR-205-5p was expressed at higher levels in DPCs from rabbits with low hair densities (LD) than in rabbits with high hair densities (HD), and it was expressed at high levels in the skin tissue from Rex rabbits (P < 0.05). Notably, ocu-miR-205 increased cell proliferation and the cell apoptosis rate, altered the progression of the cell cycle (P < 0.05), and modulated the expression of genes involved in the PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch and BMP signalling pathways in DPCs and skin tissue from Rex rabbits. It also inhibited the phosphorylation of the CTNNB1 and GSK-3β proteins, decreased the level of the noggin (NOG) protein, and increased the level of phosphorylated Akt (P < 0.05). A significant change in the primary follicle density was not observed (P > 0.05), but the secondary follicle density and total follicle density (P < 0.05) were altered upon interference with ocu-miR-205-5p expression, and the secondary/primary ratio (S/P) in the ocu-miR-205-5p interfered expression group increased 14 days after the injection (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In the present study, ocu-miR-205 promoted the apoptosis of DPCs, altered the expression of genes and proteins involved in the PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Notch and BMP signalling pathways in DPCs and skin from Rex rabbits, promoted the transition of hair follicles from the growth phase to the regression and resting phase, and altered the hair density of Rex rabbits.
Proteomic analysis reveals sex-specific biomarker signature in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Medic Spahic Jasmina , Ricci Fabrizio , Aung Nay , Hallengren Erik , Axelsson Jonas , Hamrefors Viktor , Melander Olle , Sutton Richard , Fedorowski Artur
Published: April 2020

Background

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a variant of cardiovascular (CV) autonomic disorder of unknown etiology characterized by an excessive heart rate increase on standing and orthostatic intolerance. In this study we sought to identify novel CV biomarkers potentially implicated in POTS pathophysiology.

Methods

We conducted a nested case-control study within the Syncope Study of Unselected Population in Malmö (SYSTEMA) cohort including 396 patients (age range, 15–50 years) with either POTS (n = 113) or normal hemodynamic response during passive head-up-tilt test (n = 283). We used a targeted approach to explore changes in cardiovascular proteomics associated with POTS through a sequential two-stage process including supervised principal component analysis and univariate ANOVA with Bonferroni correction.

Results

POTS patients were younger (26 vs. 31 years; p < 0.001) and had lower BMI than controls. The discovery algorithm identified growth hormone (GH) and myoglobin (MB) as the most specific biomarker fingerprint for POTS. Plasma level of GH was higher (9.37 vs 8.37 of normalised protein expression units (NPX); p = 0.002), whereas MB was lower (4.86 vs 5.14 NPX; p = 0.002) in POTS compared with controls. In multivariate regression analysis, adjusted for age and BMI, and stratified by sex, lower MB level in men and higher GH level in women remained independently associated with POTS.

Conclusions

Cardiovascular proteomics analysis revealed sex-specific biomarker signature in POTS featured by higher plasma level of GH in women and lower plasma level of MB in men. These findings point to sex-specific immune-neuroendocrine dysregulation and deconditioning as potentially key pathophysiological traits underlying POTS.
Elevated preoperative platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts poor prognosis of patients with primary gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Authors: Chang Wei-Long , Yang Wen-Chang , Zeng Xiang-Yu , Li Cheng-Guo , Xiong Zhen , Wang Tao , Zhang Rui-Zhi , Tao Kai-Xiong , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2020

Background

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are considered to reflect the systemic inflammatory response and clinical prognosis. However, the independent prognostic values of the NLR and PLR for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) remain debatable. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative NLR and PLR in GIST patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all GIST patients diagnosed and surgically treated at Union Hospital between 2005 and 2018. The preoperative NLR and PLR were calculated to evaluate recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to estimate the independent prognostic values.

Results

The median follow-up time was 49 months (interquartile range, 22–74 months). The preoperative PLR was significantly increased in the GIST patients with intermediate and high tumor risks. Increases in the NLR (≥2.34) and PLR (≥185.04) were associated with shorter RFS and OS (P < 0.01). Moreover, the multivariate analysis revealed that elevated PLR was an independent factor for shorter RFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.041; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.001–4.622; P < 0.001) and OS (HR: 1.899; 95% CI: 1.136–3.173; P = 0.014).

Conclusions

The preoperative PLR is a potential biomarker of GIST and is related to the clinical outcome. An elevated preoperative PLR predicts poor prognosis of patients with primary GIST after complete surgical resection.
A case report of a child with probable drug resistant tuberculous pericarditis with a review of challenges involved in diagnosis, treatment and follow up of children with DR-TB pericarditis
Authors: Swaminathan Aravind , du Cros Philipp , Achar Jay , Kliescikova Jarmila , Mirgayosieva Shamsiya , Pirmahmadzoda Bobojon
Published: April 2020

Background

There are unique challenges in the diagnosis and management of multi drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in children. It is difficult to obtain confirmatory microbiological diagnosis in TB pericarditis. It is essential to differentiate between drug sensitive and drug resistant forms of TB as it has a major bearing on the regimen used, and inappropriate TB treatment combined with steroid use for pericarditis can lead to deterioration. With lack of samples, the treatment decision relies on the drug resistance pattern of the close contact if available. Therapeutic challenges of MDR-TB management in a child involve use of toxic drugs that need to be judiciously handled. We report a 2 years 4 months old male child who was diagnosed with TB pericarditis and treated based on the resistance pattern of his mother who was on treatment for pulmonary MDR-TB.

Case presentation

This 2 years 4 months old male child was diagnosed with TB involving his pericardium. Getting him started on an appropriate regimen was delayed due to the difficulty in establishing microbiological confirmation and drug susceptibility. He was commenced on a regimen based on his mother’s drug resistance pattern and required surgery due to cardiac failure during the course of his treatment. He successfully completed 2 years of therapy.

Conclusions

This child’s case demonstrates that despite unique challenges in diagnosis and management of drug resistant extra pulmonary tuberculosis in children, treatment of even complex forms can be successful. The need for high suspicion of MDR-TB, especially when there is close contact with pulmonary TB, careful design of an effective regimen that is tolerated by the child, indications for invasive surgical management of pericarditis, appropriate follow-up and management of adverse effects are emphasised.
Serum levels of neutrophil Gelatinase associated Lipocalin (NGAL) predicts hemodialysis after coronary angiography in high risk patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Reyes Luis F. , Severiche-Bueno Diego F. , Bustamante Carlos A. , Murillo Sixta , Soni Nilam J. , Poveda Marcela , Gomez Efraín , Buitrago Ricardo , Rodriguez Alejandro
Published: April 2020

Background

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) following a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the third most common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) worldwide. Patients who require hemodialysis secondary to CIN have an elevated mortality rate as high as 55%. The current definition of CIN is based on an elevation of creatinine and decrease in urinary output. Creatinine typically increases 48 h after the contrast exposure, which delays the diagnosis and treatment of CIN. The neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) has emerged as a sensitive and specific biomarker of renal injury. Limited data exists about the effectiveness of NGAL to predict CIN in high-risk patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) that underwent PCI. The primary aim of this study was to determine the association of serum NGAL levels and the need for hemodialysis after PCI.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational study. NGAL levels were measured using ELISA. Blood samples were obtained within the first 6 h of hospital admission, and 12 and 24 h after contrast exposure from angiography. The primary outcome was the requirement of hemodialysis. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was used to test for differences in median serum levels of NGAL. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was developed to assess the accuracy of NGAL to predict the need for hemodialysis after PCI.

Results

A total of 2875 were screened; however, 45 patients with ACS that underwent PCI were included. All patients were at high risk of developing CIN defined by Mehran score > 11 points. The median (IQR) serum concentration of NGAL was significantly higher in patients that required versus did not require hemodialysis (340 [83–384] vs. 169 [100–210],p = 0.01). Elevated serum levels of NGAL with a cut-off at 6 h post PCI of 281 mg/dL predicted the need for hemodialysis with an area under the curve of 0.86 (95% CI, 0.66–1.00).

Conclusions

In patients with ACS undergoing PCI; and high risk of developing CIN, an elevated serum level of NGAL 6 h after contrast exposure predicts the development of acute kidney injury requiring hemodialysis.
Late abdominal pregnancy in a post-conflict context: case of a mistaken acute abdomen - a case report
Authors: Paluku Justin Lussy , Kalole Benjamin Kambale , Furaha Cathy Mufungizi , Kamabu Eugenie Mukekulu , Mohilo Gaspard Makambo , Kataliko Benjamin Kasereka , Bartels Susan Andrea
Published: April 2020

Background

Abdominal pregnancies have been reported in both high-income countries as well as low- and middle-income countries. They are frequently missed in routine antenatal care in resource-limited settings and delayed diagnosis is usually associated with poor fetal and maternal outcomes including death. This case report is among the first from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a post-conflict region.

Case presentation

In this case study, we present a 25 year-old primigravida patient referred to HEAL Africa hospital for management of an acute abdomen at 33-weeks gestation. Her chief complaint was severe abdominal pain associated with each fetal movement for a period of 1 week prior to admission. A diagnosis of peritonitis was made. Emergency laparotomy revealed a normal live 2 kg baby with placental implantation on the greater omentum and small intestine mesentery. The placenta was not removed. Both maternal and fetal outcomes were good.

Conclusion

Abdominal pregnancy with a normal live fetus at such an advanced gestational age is rare. This case reminds clinicians that abdominal pregnancy remains a differential diagnosis for painful fetal movements.