bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical practice guidelines in Brazil – developing a national programme
Authors: Colpani Verônica , Kowalski Sérgio Candido , Stein Airton Tetelbom , Buehler Anna Maria , Zanetti Daniel , Côrtes Gabriel , de Melo Junior Edison Vieira , Ebeidalla Jorgiany Emerick , de Oliveira Natiela Beatriz , Guerra Renata Leborato , Silva Sarah Nascimento , Duncan Bruce B. , Falavigna Maicon , Schünemann Holger Jens
Published: June 2020

In Brazil, governmental and non-governmental organisations develop practice guidelines (PGs) in order to optimise patient care. Although important improvements have been made over the past years, many of these documents still lack transparency and methodological rigour. In order to conduct a critical analysis and define future steps in PG development in Brazil, we carried out a structured assessment of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis) for the development of a national guideline programme. Participants consisted of academia, methodologists, medical societies and healthcare system representatives. In summary, the PG development process has improved in Brazil and current investments in methodological research and capacity-building are ongoing. Despite the centralised processes for public PGs, standardised procedures for their development are not well established and human resources are insufficient in number and capacity to develop the amount of trustworthy documents needed. Brazil’s capacity could be strengthened and initial efforts have been made such as the adoption of standards proposed by world-renowned institutions in PG development and enhancement of the involvement of key stakeholders. Further steps involve the alignment between health technology assessment and PG processes for synergy and the development of a national network to promote the interaction between groups involved in the development of PGs. The lessons learned from this paper could be used to foster debate on guideline development, especially for countries facing similar threats on this topic.
Intense and unpredictable perturbations during gait training improve dynamic balance abilities in chronic hemiparetic individuals: a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Esmaeili Vahid , Juneau Andréanne , Dyer Joseph-Omer , Lamontagne Anouk , Kairy Dahlia , Bouyer Laurent , Duclos Cyril
Published: June 2020

Background

Previous studies have assessed the effects of perturbation training on balance after stroke. However, the perturbations were either applied while standing or were small in amplitude during gait, which is not representative of the most common fall conditions. The perturbations were also combined with other challenges such as progressive increases in treadmill speed.

Objective

To determine the benefit of treadmill training with intense and unpredictable perturbations compared to treadmill walking-only training for dynamic balance and gait post-stroke.

Methods

Twenty-one individuals post-stroke with reduced dynamic balance abilities, with or without a history of fall and ability to walk on a treadmill without external support or a walking aid for at least 1 min were allocated to either an unpredictable gait perturbation (Perturb) group or a walking-only (NonPerturb) group through covariate adaptive randomization. Nine training sessions were conducted over 3 weeks. NonPerturb participants only walked on the treadmill but were offered perturbation training after the control intervention. Pre- and post-training evaluations included balance and gait abilities, maximal knee strength, balance confidence and community integration. Six-week phone follow-ups were conducted for balance confidence and community integration. Satisfaction with perturbation training was also assessed.

Results

With no baseline differences between groups (p > 0.075), perturbation training yielded large improvements in most variables in the Perturb (p < 0.05, Effect Size: ES > .46) group (n = 10) and the NonPerturb (p ≤ .089, ES > .45) group (n = 7 post-crossing), except for maximal strength (p > .23) in the NonPerturb group. Walking-only training in the NonPerturb group (n = 8, pre-crossing) mostly had no effect (p > .292, ES < .26), except on balance confidence (p = .063, ES = .46). The effects of the gait training were still present on balance confidence and community integration at follow-up. Satisfaction with the training program was high.

Conclusion

Intense and unpredictable gait perturbations have the potential to be an efficient component of training to improve balance abilities and community integration in individuals with chronic stroke. Retrospective registration: ClinicalTrials.gov. March 18th, 2020. Identifier: NCT04314830.
The molecular evolutionary characteristics of new isolated H9N2 AIV from East China and the function of vimentin on virus replication in MDCK cells
Authors: Yu Yuan Nan , Zheng Yang , Hao Shan Shan , Zhang Ze , Cai Jia Xi , Zong Man Man , Feng Xiu Li , Liu Qing Tao
Published: June 2020

Background

The low pathogenic H9N2 AIV caused the serious impact on the poultry industry and public safety. Our purpose was to investigate the molecular evolutionary characteristics of the new isolated H9N2 virus and investigate the intracellular target protein of H9N2 AIV replication in sensitive cells.

Methods

AIV A/chicken/Shandong/LY1/2017 (H9N2) was isolated from the cloaca of the healthy chicken in Shandong, and the full-length eight gene segments of this isolated H9N2 AIV were amplified by RT-PCR and analyzed. MDCK cells were used as the target cell model, and VOPBA assay and LC-MS/MS were carried out to identify the virus-binding protein of H9N2 AIV. MDCK cells were pre-treated with the special antibody and siRNA, and treated with H9N2 AIV to detect the virus replication. Additionally, Vimentin-pcDNA3.0 was successfully constructed, and transinfected into MDCK cells, and then H9N2 AIV mRNA was detected with RT-PCR.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis revealed that HA, NA, PB2, PB1, PA, NP and M seven genes of the isolated H9N2 AIV were derived from A/Chicken/Shanghai/F/98, while NS gene was derived from A/Duck/Hong Kong/Y439/97. The cleavage site sequence of HA gene of the isolated H9N2 AIV was a PARSSR G pattern, and the left side sequence (224 ~ 229) of receptor binding site was NGQQGR pattern, which were similar to that of A/Chicken/Shanghai/F/98. Following VOPBA assay, we found one protein of about 50KDa binding to H9N2 AIV, and the results of LC-MS/MS analysis proved that vimentin was the vital protein binding to H9N2 AIV. The pre-incubation of the specific antibody and siRNA decreased the viral RNA level in MDCK cells treated with H9N2 AIV. Furthermore, we found that over-expressed vimentin increased H9N2 AIV replication in MDCK cells.

Conclusions

These findings suggested that the isolated H9N2 AIV might be a recent clinical common H9N2 strain, and vimentin protein might be one vital factor for H9N2 AIV replication in MDCK cells, which might be a novel target for design and development of antiviral drug.
Vibration-induced injuries in workers exposed to transient and high frequency vibrations
Authors: Gerhardsson Lars , Ahlstrand Christina , Ersson Per , Gustafsson Ewa
Published: June 2020

Background

The risk of developing vibration white fingers and neurosensory symptoms increases with the duration and intensity of the exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk of developing vibration white fingers (VWF), neurosensory symptoms and musculoskeletal disorders among workers exposed to transient and high frequency vibrations.

Methods

The study included 38 vibration exposed workers from a loader assembly plant in Sweden (30 males and 8 females). All participants answered questionnaires and had a structured interview about work and medical history. A following medical examination included the determination of vibration and temperature perception thresholds and musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck, shoulder, elbow and hands. The individual vibration exposure expressed as A (8)-values and vibration exposure in minutes per day, were obtained from questionnaires answered by the participants.

Results

The prevalence of VWF was 30% among the male workers and 50% among the females. The corresponding prevalence of neurosensory symptoms was 70% among the males and 88% among the females. Musculoskeletal findings were common among the male workers. Dominant symptoms/syndromes were tension neck syndrome, biceps tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar entrapment in hand/wrist. A total of 32 diagnoses were observed among the male workers and four diagnoses among the female workers. Numbness in fingers and age had the strongest impact on perceived work ability.

Conclusions

ISO 5349-1 considerably underestimates the risks of VWF for this group of workers exposed to transient and high frequency vibrations. It is therefore important to develop a risk assessment standard also covering this frequency range.
Repair of Achilles sleeve avulsion: a new transosseous suture technique
Authors: Yang Yu-ping , Wang Ding-yu , Wei Lin-wei , An Ning , Tao Li-yuan , Jiao Chen , Guo Qin-wei , Hu Yue-lin
Published: June 2020

Background

Achilles sleeve avulsion usually occurs from pre-existing insertional Achilles tendinopathy, leaving a calcific spur at the insertional site. The purpose of this study was to introduce a new technique using the spur base on the insertional site to drill the suture tunnel to repair Achilles sleeve avulsion.

Methods

In total, 11 patients diagnosed with Achilles sleeve avulsion underwent this new surgical technique and were followed for a mean time of 40 months. Clinical outcomes were measured using the visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) score, Tegner score, and time taken to return to activities. Preoperative and postoperative MRI, the ability to perform heel rise, and complications were also evaluated.

Results

All cases (11/11) had insertional Achilles tendinopathy with calcific spur formation on the tendon’s insertion. At final follow-up, the average VAS score improved from 5.3 to 0.1, AOFAS score improved from 44.8 to 97.9, VISA-A score improved from 23.6 to 96.6, and Tegner score improved from 0.9 to 4.9. Tendinopathy symptoms were eliminated. Patients returned to daily activities, work, and sports 3.5 months, 2.8 months, and 12.3months after operation, respectively. Patients took an average of 18.1 weeks after operation to perform the single heel rise test. No severe complications such as infection and rerupture were observed.

Conclusion

Our new transosseous suture technique is a promising alternative option in treating Achilles sleeve avulsion. More cases and longer follow up are needed in order to find the best reconstructive option for this pathology.

Levels of evidence

Level IV
Emerging therapies in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Hanel Walter , Epperla Narendranath
Published: June 2020

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, B cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with highly heterogeneous clinical presentation and aggressiveness. First-line treatment consists of intensive chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplant for the fit, transplant eligible patients, or less intensive chemotherapy for the less fit (and transplant-ineligible) patients. Patients eventually relapse with a progressive clinical course. Numerous therapeutic approaches have emerged over the last few years which have significantly changed the treatment landscape of MCL. These therapies consist of targeted approaches such as BTK and BCL2 inhibitors that provide durable therapeutic responses. However, the optimum combination and sequencing of these therapies is unclear and is currently investigated in several ongoing studies. Furthermore, cellular therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and bispecific T cell engager (BiTe) antibodies have shown impressive results and will likely shape treatment approaches in relapsed MCL, especially after failure with BTK inhibitors. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of past and ongoing studies that will likely significantly impact our approach to MCL treatment in both the frontline (for transplant eligible and ineligible patients) as well as in the relapsed setting. We present the most up to date results from these studies as well as perspectives on future studies in MCL.
Role of gut microbiota in the development of insulin resistance and the mechanism underlying polycystic ovary syndrome: a review
Authors: He Fang-fang , Li Yu-mei
Published: June 2020

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder. Typically, it is characterized by hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, menstrual disorders and infertility. To date, its pathogenesis remains unclear. However, insulin resistance (IR) is considered as the primary pathological basis for its reproductive dysfunction. On the other hand, a condition in which insulin is over-secreted is called hyperinsulinemia. IR/Hyperinsulinemia is associated with chronic inflammation, hormonal changes, follicular dysplasia, endometrial receptivity changes, and abortion or infertility. Additionally, it increases incidence of complications during pregnancy and has been associated with anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. Gut microbiota, the “second genome” acquired by the human body, can promote metabolism, immune response through interaction with the external environment. Gut microbiota dysbiosis can cause IR, which is closely linked to the occurrence of PCOS. This article reviewed recent findings on the roles of gut microbiota in the development of insulin resistance and the mechanism underlying polycystic ovary syndrome.
Detection of crown-like structures in breast adipose tissue and clinical outcomes among African-American and White women with breast cancer
Authors: Maliniak Maret L. , Cheriyan Aswathy Miriam , Sherman Mark E. , Liu Yuan , Gogineni Keerthi , Liu Jiaqi , He Jiabei , Krishnamurti Uma , Miller-Kleinhenz Jasmine , Ashiqueali Ryan , He Jinjing , Yacoub Rami , McCullough Lauren E.
Published: June 2020

Background

Crown-like structures in breast adipose tissue (CLS-B), composed of necrotic adipocytes encircled by macrophages, are associated with obesity and hypothesized to worsen breast cancer prognosis; however, data are sparse, particularly in multi-racial populations.

Methods

We assessed specimens for CLS-B from 174 African-American and 168 White women with stage I–III breast cancer treated by mastectomy. Benign breast tissue from an uninvolved quadrant was immunohistochemically stained for CD68 to determine CLS-B presence and density (per cm2 of adipose tissue). Demographic and lifestyle factors, collected via medical record review, were analyzed for associations with CLS-B using logistic regression. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between CLS-B and overall (OS) or progression-free (PFS) survival.

Results

Detection of any CLS-B was similar between African-American (32%) and White (29%) patients with no evidence of an association between race and CLS-B in multivariable models (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.49–1.36). Detection of CLS-B was associated with obesity (OR = 4.73, 95% CI = 2.48–9.01) and age ≥ 60 years at diagnosis (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 0.99–3.21). There was some evidence of associations with parity and current smoking status. Detection of CLS-B was not associated with OS (HR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.55–1.87) or PFS (HR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.59–1.67).

Conclusions

Our results show a strong, positive association between BMI and CLS-B in non-tumor tissue similar to previous findings. Detection of CLS-B did not vary by race and was not associated with worse OS or PFS.
Analysis of transcript-deleterious variants in Mendelian disorders: implications for RNA-based diagnostics
Authors: Maddirevula Sateesh , Kuwahara Hiroyuki , Ewida Nour , Shamseldin Hanan E. , Patel Nisha , Alzahrani Fatema , AlSheddi Tarfa , AlObeid Eman , Alenazi Mona , Alsaif Hessa S. , Alqahtani Maha , AlAli Maha , Al Ali Hatoon , Helaby Rana , Ibrahim Niema , Abdulwahab Firdous , Hashem Mais , Hanna Nadine , Monies Dorota , Derar Nada , Alsagheir Afaf , Alhashem Amal , Alsaleem Badr , Alhebbi Hamoud , Wali Sami , Umarov Ramzan , Gao Xin , Alkuraya Fowzan S.
Published: June 2020

Background

At least 50% of patients with suspected Mendelian disorders remain undiagnosed after whole-exome sequencing (WES), and the extent to which non-coding variants that are not captured by WES contribute to this fraction is unclear. Whole transcriptome sequencing is a promising supplement to WES, although empirical data on the contribution of RNA analysis to the diagnosis of Mendelian diseases on a large scale are scarce.

Results

Here, we describe our experience with transcript-deleterious variants (TDVs) based on a cohort of 5647 families with suspected Mendelian diseases. We first interrogate all families for which the respective Mendelian phenotype could be mapped to a single locus to obtain an unbiased estimate of the contribution of TDVs at 18.9%. We examine the entire cohort and find that TDVs account for 15% of all “solved” cases. We compare the results of RT-PCR to in silico prediction. Definitive results from RT-PCR are obtained from blood-derived RNA for the overwhelming majority of variants (84.1%), and only a small minority (2.6%) fail analysis on all available RNA sources (blood-, skin fibroblast-, and urine renal epithelial cells-derived), which has important implications for the clinical application of RNA-seq. We also show that RNA analysis can establish the diagnosis in 13.5% of 155 patients who had received “negative” clinical WES reports. Finally, our data suggest a role for TDVs in modulating penetrance even in otherwise highly penetrant Mendelian disorders.

Conclusions

Our results provide much needed empirical data for the impending implementation of diagnostic RNA-seq in conjunction with genome sequencing.
Statistical analysis plan for a cluster-randomised trial assessing the effectiveness of implementation of a bedside evidence-based checklist for clinical management of brain-dead potential organ donors in intensive care units: DONORS (Donation Network to Optimise Organ Recovery Study)
Authors: Giordani Natalia Elis , Robinson Caroline Cabral , Westphal Glauco Adrieno , Rosa Regis Goulart , Sganzerla Daniel , Cavalcanti Alexandre Biasi , Machado Flávia Ribeiro , Azevedo Luciano Cesar Pontes , Bozza Fernando Augusto , Teixeira Cassiano , de Andrade Joel , Franke Cristiano Augusto , Guterres Cátia Moreira , Madalena Itiana Cardoso , Rohden Adriane Isabel , da Silva Sabrina Souza , Andrighetto Luiza Vitelo , Rech Gabriela Soares , Gimenes Bruna dos Passos , Hammes Luciano Serpa , Pontes Daniela Ferreira Salomão , Meade Maureen O. , Falavigna Maicon
Published: June 2020

Background

The quality of clinical care of brain-dead potential organ donors may help reduce donor losses caused by irreversible or unreversed cardiac arrest and increase the number of organs donated. We sought to determine whether an evidence-based, goal-directed checklist for donor management in intensive care units (ICUs) can reduce donor losses to cardiac arrest.

Methods/design

The DONORS study is a multicentre, cluster-randomised controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio designed to compare an intervention group (goal-directed checklist for brain-dead potential organ donor management) with a control group (standard ICU care). The primary outcome is loss of potential donors due to cardiac arrest. Secondary outcomes are the number of actual organ donors and the number of solid organs recovered per actual donor. Exploratory outcomes include the achievement of relevant clinical goals during the management of brain-dead potential organ donors. The present statistical analysis plan (SAP) describes all primary statistical procedures that will be used to evaluate the results and perform exploratory and sensitivity analyses of the trial.

Discussion

The SAP of the DONORS study aims to describe its analytic procedures, enhancing the transparency of the study. At the moment of SAP subsmission, 63 institutions have been randomised and were enrolling study participants. Thus, the analyses reported herein have been defined before the end of the study recruitment and database locking.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03179020. Registered on 7 June 2017.
Salivary β2-microglobulin levels in patients with erosive oral lichen planus and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Nosratzehi Fatemeh , Nosratzehi Tahereh , Alijani Ebrahim , Rad Soha Saberi
Published: June 2020

Objectives

β2 microglobulin, as a biomarker, is used for the diagnosis of oral malignant and pre-malignant lesions. The components of the microglobulin system can directly or indirectly help grow and develop tumors. The present study aims to compare beta-2 microglobulin levels in patients with lichen planus of the esophagus, oral squamous cell carcinoma, and healthy individuals. Further, it evaluated the salivary β2-microglobulin level in malignant and pre-malignant lesions. Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic skin-mucus disorder. Of the total 75 patients referred to Oral Medicine at Dentistry School of Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, 25 were healthy and 25 had oral lichen planus (OLP) and the rest had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). To collect the saliva samples, unstimulated spitting was used. They were collected between 9 and 12 a.m. Salivary beta2 microglobulin was recorded based on the factory instructions by ELISA optical density method with 450 nm wavelength for each sample. The data were analyzed using descriptive, Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney and Pearson’s correlation coefficient (SPSS 21).

Results

The salivary β2 microglobulin level in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and oral lichen plan (OLP) is significantly higher than that in healthy group. Thus, this index is used for assessing early malignant transformation and oral pre-malignant lesion.
Epigenetic silencing of AATK in acinar to ductal metaplasia in murine model of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Ding Li-Yun , Hou Ya-Chin , Kuo I-Ying , Hsu Ting-Yi , Tsai Tsung-Ching , Chang Hsiu-Wei , Hsu Wei-Yu , Tsao Chih-Chieh , Tian Chung-Chen , Wang Po-Shun , Wang Hao-Chen , Lee Chung-Ta , Wang Yi-Ching , Lin Sheng-Hsiang , Hughes Michael W. , Chuang Woei-Jer , Lu Pei-Jung , Shan Yan-Shen , Huang Po-Hsien
Published: June 2020

Background

Cancer subtype switching, which involves unclear cancer cell origin, cell fate decision, and transdifferentiation of cells within a confined tumor microenvironment, remains a major problem in pancreatic cancer (PDA).

Results

By analyzing PDA subtypes in The Cancer Genome Atlas, we identified that epigenetic silencing of apoptosis-associated tyrosine kinase (AATK) inversely was correlated with mRNA expression and was enriched in the quasi-mesenchymal cancer subtype. By comparing early mouse pancreatic lesions, the non-invasive regions showed AATK co-expression in cells with acinar-to-ductal metaplasia, nuclear VAV1 localization, and cell cycle suppression; but the invasive lesions conversely revealed diminished AATK expression in those with poorly differentiated histology, cytosolic VAV1 localization, and co-expression of p63 and HNF1α. Transiently activated AATK initiates acinar differentiation into a ductal cell fate to establish apical-basal polarization in acinar-to-ductal metaplasia. Silenced AATK and ectopically expressed p63 and HNF1α allow the proliferation of ductal PanINs in mice.

Conclusion

Epigenetic silencing of AATK regulates the cellular transdifferentiation, proliferation, and cell cycle progression in converting PDA-subtypes.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00314 facilitates osteogenic differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells through the hsa-miR-129-5p/GRM5 axis via the Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Shi Zheng-liang , Zhang Hua , Fan Zhi-yong , Ma Wei , Song Yong-zhou , Li Ming , Li Tong-qiu , Cao Shu-xing , Feng Guo-jun
Published: June 2020

Background

Many studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely related to the stimulation of osteogenic differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and the prevention of osteoporosis. Current research aimed to investigate the novel lncRNA and explored the function and molecular mechanism of the LINC00314/miR-129-5p/GRM5 axis in regulating osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs.

Methods

LncRNA and miRNA sequencing was performed in normal and osteogenic differentiation-induced ADSCs (osteogenic group). Abnormally expressed lncRNAs and miRNAs were obtained by the R software and the relative expression of LINC00314, miR-129-5p, and GRM5 during osteogenic induction was measured by RT-PCR. ADSCs were then transfected with pcDNA3.1-sh-LINC00314 and agomiR-129-5p. Alizarin red staining (ARS) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining were performed to identify the mechanism of the LINC00314/miR-129-5p/GRM5 axis in regulating osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs.

Results

LINC00314 was significantly upregulated in the group of osteogenic-induced ADSCs. LINC00314 and GRM5 mimics increased the early and late markers of osteogenic differentiation, which manifest in not only the markedly increased ALP activity but also higher calcium deposition, while miR-129-5p mimic had the opposite effects. LINC00314 directly targeted miR-129-5p through luciferase reporter assay, and miR-129-5p suppressed GRM5 expression. Moreover, the LINC00314/miR-129-5p/GRM5 regulatory axis activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Conclusions

LINC00314 confers contributory function in the osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs and thus the LINC00314/miR-129-5p/GRM5 axis may be a novel mechanism for osteogenic-related disease.
A centennial-resolution terrestrial climatostratigraphy and Matuyama–Brunhes transition record from a loess sequence in China
Authors: Hyodo Masayuki , Banjo Kenta , Yang Tianshui , Katoh Shigehiro , Shi Meinan , Yasuda Yuki , Fukuda Jun-ichi , Miki Masako , Bradák Balázs
Published: June 2020

Terrestrial records of the last geomagnetic reversal often have few age constraints. Chronostratigraphy using suborbital-scale paleoceanic events during marine isotope stage 19 may contribute to solving this problem. We applied the method to an 8 m long, high-resolution paleomagnetic record from a loess sequence in China and revealed millennial-to-sub-centennial scale features of the Matuyama–Brunhes (MB) transition. All samples were subjected to progressive thermal demagnetization with 14–15 steps up to 650–680 °C. As a result, 96% of the samples yielded a high-quality remanent magnetization. The MB transition terminated with a 75 cm thick zone with nine polarity flips. The polarity flip zone, dated at about 779–777 ka, began between the warm events “I” and “J” and terminated at the end of the cooling event coincident with the lowest axial-dipole strength interval. Most polarity flips occurred within 70 years. The virtual geomagnetic poles (VGPs) in the upper polarity flip zone clustered in the SW Pacific region, where the MB transitional VGPs from lavas of the Hawaiian and Canary Islands and lacustrine deposits of Java also clustered. These sites were probably dominated by dipolar fields. The absence of transitional fields across polarity flips implies a short time span for averaging fields due to a thin loess-magnetization lock-in zone. The reverse-to-normal polarity reversal dated at about 778 ka in Lingtai occurred at the end of the SW Pacific VGP zone, an important key bed for MB transition stratigraphy. The reversal is a good candidate for the main MB boundary. We found an excursion at about 766 ka spanning about 1 ka.
Nutritional status and the associated factors among people living with HIV: an evidence from cross-sectional survey in hospital based antiretroviral therapy site in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Khatri Samip , Amatya Archana , Shrestha Binjwala
Published: June 2020

Background

Nutritional status is the key concern among the people living with HIV but this issue has been failed to be prioritized in HIV strategic plan of Nepal. This study aims to assess the nutritional status among people living with HIV and determine their associated factors.

Methods

A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted where 350 people living with HIV attending the ART clinic were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Nutritional status among people living with HIV was assessed through anthropometry, body mass index; Underweight (body mass index < 18.5 kg/m2) and overweight/obesity (body mass index > 23 kg/m2). HIV related clinical factors such CD4 count, WHO stage, opportunistic infection, antiretroviral therapy regimen etc. were collected from the medical records. Socio-demographic data were collected using pretested structured questionnaire through interview technique. Multiple linear regression method was employed to determine the association between different independent factors and body mass index score.

Results

The prevalence of underweight was found to be 18.3% (95% CI: 14.3–22.6). Most of the study participants were overweight/obese (39.1%). After subjection to multiple linear regression analysis, it was found that age, being male, being married, being in business occupation, smoking, hemoglobin level and antiretroviral therapy duration were significantly associated with body mass index score. Majority of the participants in our study lacked diversified food (62.3%).

Conclusion

Overweight/obesity is an emerging problem among people living with HIV. This group of participants should be screened for the presence of non-communicable disease. This study also highlights the importance of nutritional program being an integral part of HIV/AIDS continuum of care. Therefore, an effort should be made to address the burden of malnutrition by addressing the identified determinants.
Least-squares reverse time migration of multiples in viscoacoustic media
Authors: Li Zhina , Li Zhenchun , Li Qingqing , Li Qingyang , Sun Miaomiao , Hu Pengcheng , Li Linlin
Published: June 2020

The migration of multiples can provide complementary information about the subsurface, but crosstalk artifacts caused by the interference between different-order multiples reduce its reliability. To mitigate the crosstalk artifacts, least-squares reverse time migration (LSRTM) of multiples is suggested by some researchers. Multiples are more affected by attenuation than primaries because of the longer travel path. To avoid incorrect waveform matching during the inversion, we propose to include viscosity in the LSRTM implementation. A method of LSRTM of multiples is introduced based on a viscoacoustic wave equation, which is derived from the generalized standard linear solid model. The merit of the proposed method is that it not only compensates for the amplitude loss and phase change, which cannot be achieved by traditional RTM and LSRTM of multiples, but it also provides more information about the subsurface with fewer crosstalk artifacts by using multiples compared with the viscoacoustic LSRTM of primaries. Tests on sensitivity to the errors in the velocity model, the Q model, and the separated multiples reveal that accurate models and input multiples are vital to the image quality. Numerical tests on synthetic models and real data demonstrate the advantages of our approach in improving the quality of the image in terms of amplitude balancing and signal-to-noise ratio.
Improving the use of the randomized singular value decomposition for the inversion of gravity and magnetic data
Authors: Vatankhah Saeed , Liu Shuang , Renaut Rosemary Anne , Hu Xiangyun , Baniamerian Jamaledin
Published: June 2020

The focusing inversion of gravity and magnetic potential-field data using the randomized singular value decomposition (RSVD) method is considered. This approach facilitates tackling the computational challenge that arises in the solution of the inversion problem that uses the standard and accurate approximation of the integral equation kernel. We have developed a comprehensive comparison of the developed methodology for the inversion of magnetic and gravity data. The results verify that there is an important difference between the application of the methodology for gravity and magnetic inversion problems. Specifically, RSVD is dependent on the generation of a rank [Formula: see text] approximation to the underlying model matrix, and the results demonstrate that [Formula: see text] needs to be larger, for equivalent problem sizes, for the magnetic problem compared to the gravity problem. Without a relatively large [Formula: see text], the dominant singular values of the magnetic model matrix are not well approximated. We determine that this is due to the spectral properties of the matrix. The comparison also shows us how the use of the power iteration embedded within the randomized algorithm improves the quality of the resulting dominant subspace approximation, especially in magnetic inversion, yielding acceptable approximations for smaller choices of [Formula: see text]. Further, we evaluate how the differences in spectral properties of the magnetic and gravity input matrices also affect the values that are automatically estimated for the regularization parameter. The algorithm is applied and verified for the inversion of magnetic data obtained over a portion of the Wuskwatim Lake region in Manitoba, Canada.
Comparison of monotonicity challenges encountered by the inverse scattering series and the Marchenko demultiple method for elastic waves
Authors: Reinicke C. , Dukalski M. , Wapenaar K.
Published: June 2020

The reflection response of strongly scattering media often contains complicated interferences between primaries and (internal) multiples, which can lead to imaging artifacts unless handled correctly. Internal multiples can be kinematically predicted, for example by the Jakubowicz method or by the inverse scattering series (ISS), as long as monotonicity, that is, “correct” temporal event ordering, is obeyed. Alternatively, the (conventional) Marchenko method removes all overburden-related wavefield interactions by formulating an inverse problem that can be solved if the Green’s and the so-called focusing functions are separable in the time domain, except for an overlap that must be predicted. For acoustic waves, the assumptions of the aforementioned methods are often satisfied within the recording regimes used for seismic imaging. However, elastic media support wave propagation via coupled modes that travel with distinct velocities. Compared to the acoustic case, not only does the multiple issue become significantly more severe, but also violation of monotonicity becomes much more likely. By quantifying the assumptions of the conventional Marchenko method and the ISS, unexpected similarities as well as differences between the requirements of the two methods come to light. Our analysis demonstrates that the conventional Marchenko method relies on a weaker form of monotonicity. However, this advantage must be compensated by providing more prior information, which in the elastic case is an outstanding challenge. Rewriting, or remixing, the conventional Marchenko scheme removes the need for prior information but leads to a stricter monotonicity condition, which is now almost as strict as for the ISS. Finally, we introduce two strategies on how the remixed Marchenko solutions can be used for imperfect, but achievable, demultiple purposes.
Application of machine learning to microseismic event detection in distributed acoustic sensing data
Authors: Stork Anna L. , Baird Alan F. , Horne Steve A. , Naldrett Garth , Lapins Sacha , Kendall J.-Michael , Wookey James , Verdon James P. , Clarke Andy , Williams Anna
Published: June 2020

This study presents the first demonstration of the transferability of a convolutional neural network (CNN) trained to detect microseismic events in one fiber-optic distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) data set to other data sets. DAS increasingly is being used for microseismic monitoring in industrial settings, and the dense spatial and temporal sampling provided by these systems produces large data volumes (approximately 650 GB/day for a 2 km long cable sampling at 2000 Hz with a spatial sampling of 1 m), requiring new processing techniques for near-real-time microseismic analysis. We have trained the CNN known as YOLOv3, an object detection algorithm, to detect microseismic events using synthetically generated waveforms with real noise superimposed. The performance of the CNN network is compared to the number of events detected using filtering and amplitude threshold (short-term average/long-term average) detection techniques. In the data set from which the real noise is taken, the network is able to detect >80% of the events identified by manual inspection and 14% more than detected by standard frequency-wavenumber filtering techniques. The false detection rate is approximately 2% or one event every 20 s. In other data sets, with monitoring geometries and conditions previously unseen by the network, >50% of events identified by manual inspection are detected by the CNN.
The biomechanics of knuckle-walking: 3-D kinematics of the chimpanzee and macaque wrist, hand and fingers
Authors: Thompson Nathan E.
Published: June 2020

The origin and evolution of knuckle-walking has long been a key focus in understanding African ape, including human, origins. Yet, despite numerous studies documenting morphological characteristics potentially associated with knuckle-walking, little quantitative three-dimensional (3-D) data exist of forelimb motion during knuckle-walking. Nor do any comparative 3-D data exist for hand postures used during quadrupedalism in monkeys. This lack of data has limited the testability of proposed adaptations for knuckle-walking in African apes. This study presents the first 3-D kinematic data of the wrist, hand and metacarpophalangeal joints during knuckle-walking in chimpanzees and in macaques using digitigrade and palmigrade hand postures. These results clarify the unique characteristics of, and commonalities between, knuckle-walking and digitigrady/palmigrady in multiple planes of motion. Notably, chimpanzees utilized more wrist ulnar deviation than any macaque hand posture. Maximum extension of the chimpanzee wrist was slight (5–20 deg) and generally overlapped with macaque digitigrady. Metacarpophalangeal joint motion displayed distinct differences between digits in both species, likely related to the timing of force application. These data also reveal that maximum metacarpophalangeal extension angles during knuckle-walking (26–59 deg) were generally higher than previously considered. In macaques, maximum metacarpophalangeal extension during digitigrady and palmigrady overlapped for most digits, highlighting additional complexity in the interpretation of skeletal features that may be related to limiting metacarpophalangeal motion. Most importantly, however, these new 3-D data serve as a fundamental dataset with which evaluation of proposed musculoskeletal adaptations for knuckle-walking can be tested.
Structure- and Functionality-Based Molecular Design of Azoles and Thiophenes
Authors: Mori Atsunori
Published: June 2020

Heteroaromatic structures are widely found in a variety of organic molecules such as π-extended oligomers/polymers, pharmaceutical drugs, agrochemicals, etc. Considerable efforts have been made for the wide use of heteroaromatic compounds. It is therefore of great interest to develop efficient and practical synthetic methodology in organic chemistry. In this account, the focus is on the molecular design of five-membered heteroaromatic compounds such as azoles and thiophenes covering transition metal-catalyzed carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bond formation at the C–H bond, polymerization reactions employing coupling reactions, and a new class of structural design of heterobiaryls showing molecular asymmetry.
The interface of psychiatry and COVID-19: Challenges for management of psychiatric patients
Authors: Javed Afzal , Mohandas E. , De Sousa Avinash
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 is a viral infection that has multisystemic physical and psychological complications. The following paper looks at the various challenges seen while treating psychiatric patients during the COVID pandemic. There is a need for physician to be aware of the drug interactions between psychiatric medications and the medications used routinely in the management of COVID. There is also the concern of psychiatric side effects of medications used to manage COVID and medical complications caused by some side effects of psychiatric drugs. The telepsychiatry and telemedicine paradigm has made it mandatory for physicians to be vigilant of the same.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.3073

How to cite this:Javed A, Mohandas E, De-Sousa A. The interface of psychiatry and COVID-19: Challenges for management of psychiatric patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(5):1133-1136. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.3073

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Simulation of Telemetry System for Monitoring Fuel Level Based on SMS Gateway
Authors: Pranata Yuda Indra , Arkanuddin Muchlas
Published: June 2020

This study aims to simulate a telemetry system monitoring the level of the fuel level at an SMS-based gas station using an ultrasonic sensor integrated with the Arduino Uno microcontroller. The gas station's fuel tank was simulated using a 5 liter reservoir, while the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor was used to detect fuel level. The SIM800L module is used as a sender of information messages about the fuel level at a predetermined condition. This system is equipped with an LCD as a viewer when the data level is read. Based on testing the developed system can function well, shown by the average length of time the process of sending messages from reading the level limit on the tank, until the receipt of messages on mobile phones of 7.6 seconds. While the success rate of reading to the level of fuel level and sending automatic messages on the system reaches 100%.Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuat simulasi sistem telemetri pemantauan level ketinggian BBM di SPBU berbasis SMS gateway menggunakan sensor ultrasonik yang diintegrasikan dengan mikrokontroler Arduino Uno. Tangki BBM SPBU disimulasikan menggunakan sebuah tandon berkapasitas 5 liter, sedangkan sensor ultrasonik HC-SR04 digunakan untuk mendeteksi level ketinggian BBM. Modul SIM800L digunakan sebagai pengirim pesan informasi mengenai level ketinggian BBM pada kondisi yang telah ditentukan. Sistem ini dilengkapi dengan LCD sebagai penampil ketika data level terbaca. Berdasarkan pengujian sistem yang dikembangkan dapat berfungsi dengan baik, ditunjukkan oleh rata-rata lamanya waktu proses pengiriman pesan dari pembacaan level limit on tank, hingga diterimanya pesan pada handphone sebesar 7,6 detik. Sedangkan tingkat keberhasilan pembacaan terhadap level ketinggian BBM dan pengiriman pesan otomatis pada sistem tersebut mencapai 100%.
Application of Deep Learning Convolution Neural Network Method on KRSBI Humanoid R-SCUAD Robot
Authors: Irfan Syahid Al , Widodo Nuryono Satya
Published: June 2020

In a soccer game the ability of humanoid robots that one needs to have is to see the ball object in real time. Development of the ability of humanoid robots to see the ball has been developed but the level of accuracy of object recognition and adaptation during matches still needs to be improved. The architecture designed in this study is Convolutional Neural Network or CNN which is designed to have 6 hidden layers with implementation of the robot program using the Tensorflow library. The pictures taken are used in the training process to have 9 types of images based on where the pictures were taken. Each type of image is divided into 2 classes, namely 2000 images for ball object classes and 2000 images for non-ball object classes. The test is done in real time using a white ball on green grass. From the architectural design and white ball detection test results obtained a success rate of 67%, five of the nine models managed to recognize the ball. The model can recognize objects with an image processing speed of a maximum of 13 FPS.Dalam pertandingan sepak bola kemampuan robot humanoid yang perlu dimiliki salah satunya adalah melihat objek bola secara real time. Pengembangan kemampuan robot humanoid untuk melihat bola telah dikembangkan tetapi tingkat akurasi pengenalan objek dan adaptasi saat pertandingan masih perlu ditingkatkan. Arsitektur yang dirancang pada penelitian ini yaitu Convolutional Neural Network atau CNN yang dirancang memiliki 6 hidden layer dengan implementasi pada program robot menggunakan library Tensorflow. Gambar yang diambil digunakan dalam proses training memiliki 9 jenis gambar berdasarkan tempat pengambilan gambar. Tiap jenis gambar terbagi menjadi 2 class yaitu 2000 gambar untuk class objek bola dan 2000 gambar untuk class objek bukan bola. Pengujian dilakukan secara real time dengan menggunakan bola berwarna putih di atas rumput hijau. Dari perancangan arsitektur dan hasil pengujian pendeteksian bola putih didapatkan persentase keberhasilan 67% yaitu lima dari sembilan model berhasil mengenali bola. Model dapat mengenali objek dengan kecepatan pengolahan gambar adalah maksimal 13 FPS.
Anatomy: learning the language
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: June 2020

This article is the first in a series that focuses on anatomy and physiology. Human anatomy, just like any other technical subject, has its own vocabulary. When learning anatomy for the first time, it can sometimes feel like you are learning a new language. This article provides the reader with an understanding of the language used when discussing various anatomical concepts.

The healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP) will need to understand anatomical terminology accurately, so as to provide care that is safe and effective. The article addresses roots, prefixes and suffixes, anatomical position, regional terms, directional terms, body planes and body cavities. Each article in the series ends with a glossary of terms helping readers understand some of the terminology that has been used. A series of ‘test yourself’ questions is also provided.
Rare health conditions 35: issues of anxiety resulting from a diagnosis of a rare health condition and the value and implications of genetic testing
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this series is to briefly highlight a range of rare health conditions. Rare health conditions are those that affect no more and usually fewer than 1 person in every 2000 and many healthcare assistants and nurses will encounter some of these conditions, given the high number of these conditions. This 36th article will briefly explore the issues of anxiety resulting from a diagnosis of a rare health condition and the value and implications of genetic testing.
Working with fathers: Reflections and learning from the New Dad Study
Authors: Baldwin Sharin
Published: June 2020

In recent years, there has been an increased policy emphasis for health visitors to work more closely with fathers; however, research studies continue to highlight a lack of adequate engagement with fathers by health professionals during the perinatal period. This article will explore some of the issues relating to engagement with fathers in practice and research, reflecting on the New Dad Study (NEST) and sharing some of the learnings.
Redesigning the health visiting service offer
Authors: Brook Judy
Published: June 2020

Judy Brook discusses the importance of evaluating the changes that have been made in practice during the pandemic, and of the need to use new evidence to design flexible, efficient and effective health visiting provision