bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Prayer in Anglican Systematic Theology
Authors: Cocksworth Ashley
Published: June 2020

For an ecclesial tradition that does not have a particularly strong history of systematic theology, it is curious that several of those currently engaged in the production of large‐scale, multi‐volume projects of systematic theology are Anglican theologians. In this article, I investigate three such projects: Sarah Coakley’s God, Sexuality and the Self: An Essay ‘On the Trinity’, Graham Ward’s How the Light Gets In: Ethical Life I, and Katherine Sonderegger’s Systematic Theology – Vol. 1: The Doctrine of God. In the first section, I examine these examples of systematic theology in light of Stephen Sykes’s analysis of the state of the discipline in Anglican theology. Then, in the second section, I identify a common characteristic shared by Coakley, Ward, and Sonderegger: the grounding of systematic theology in the practice of prayer. I argue that although these contemporary systematicians might not see themselves as enunciating an Anglican systematics, the systematic seriousness they accord to matters of prayer can be interpreted as articulations of the Anglican propensity to grant theological priority to the liturgy. In the final section, I suggest that for all the theological opportunities made available by the systematic reclamation of prayer, these invariably positive embraces of prayer leave little space for what might be called the Schattenseite of prayer. There is a ‘shadow‐side’ to the history and practice of prayer that I argue needs to be appropriately theorized if the category of prayer is to have a future in the discipline of systematic theology.
Fotografías de las generaciones jóvenes en el mercado laboral neerlandés
Authors: BEKKER Sonja , POP Ioana
Published: June 2020

Ante el declive generalizado de la relación de trabajo estándar y sus efectos particulares en los jóvenes, se examinan aquí en detalle las trayectorias laborales de los trabajadores al inicio de su carrera en los Países Bajos entre 1985 y 2015 mediante el enfoque del análisis secuencial del ciclo vital. Tras calcular dos indicadores de inestabilidad (índices de entropía y de turbulencia), se observa que las cohortes que iniciaron su vida activa después de 2000 y, en particular, 2008 experimentan mayor inestabilidad laboral a pesar de las políticas de flexiseguridad aplicadas. Las transiciones hacia el empleo estable son la excepción al final del periodo estudiado.
IS DIVERSIFICATION A JOB SAFETY NET FOR SELL‐SIDE ANALYSTS?
Authors: Balashov Vadim S. , DeVides Zhanel B.
Published: June 2020

We study sell‐side analysts’ motives to diversify their portfolios across industries. Despite the negative association between diversification and accuracy, more than 60% of analysts cover multiple industries. We argue that analysts’ choice to diversify is rooted in concerns about future job security. We find that more diversified analysts are less likely to experience job turnover and leave the profession but are not more likely to advance their careers. For experienced and all‐star analysts, diversification does not improve career outcomes. We conclude that industry diversification is a safety mechanism for inexperienced and unranked analysts who are concerned about job security.
“Masking” our emotions: Botulinum toxin, facial expression, and well‐being in the age of COVID‐19
Authors: Nestor Mark S. , Fischer Daniel , Arnold David
Published: June 2020

Background

The globally devastating effects of COVID‐19 breach not only the realm of public health, but of psychosocial interaction and communication as well, particularly with the advent of mask‐wearing.

Methods

A review of the literature and understanding of facial anatomy and expressions as well as the effect of botulinum toxin on emotions and nonverbal communication.

Results

Today, the mask has become a semi‐permanent accessory to the face, blocking our ability to express and perceive each other’s facial expressions by dividing it into a visible top half and invisible bottom half. This significantly restricts our ability to accurately interpret emotions based on facial expressions and strengthens our perceptions of negative emotions produced by frowning. The addition of botulinum toxin (BTX)–induced facial muscle paralysis to target the muscles of the top (visible) half of the face, especially the corrugator and procerus muscles, may act as a therapeutic solution by its suppression of glabellar lines and our ability to frown. The treatment of the glabella complex not only has been shown to inhibit the negative emotions of the treated individual but also can reduce the negative emotions in those who come in contact with the treated individual.

Conclusions

Mask‐wearing in the wake of COVID‐19 brings new challenges to our ability to communicate and perceive emotion through full facial expression, our most effective and universally shared form of communication, and BTX may offer a positive solution to decrease negative emotions and promote well‐being for both the mask‐wearer and all who come in contact with that individual.
Systemic complement activation in anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis and necrotizing glomerulonephritis
Authors: Bantis Kostas , Stangou Maria , Kalpakidis Savvas , Hatziadamou Maria , Daikidou Dimitra‐Vasilia , Lioulios George , Mitsoglou Zoi , Chatzidrosou Helen , Nikolaidou Christina , Fylaktou Asimina , Papagianni Aikaterini
Published: June 2020

Aim

Due to the accumulating evidence of complement activation in anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis (AAV), we decided to investigate the possibility of systemic complement activation in patients with Necrotizing Glomerulonephritis secondary to AAV.

Methods

Clinical, laboratory and histological findings, and serum levels of complement components, C3a, C5a and Bb fragment of Factor B and C4d, were estimated in patients with AAV and glomerulonephritis, at time of diagnosis, before any treatment had been applied. All patients were treated with the same immunosuppressive protocol and followed up for total 24 months. Twenty age and sex matched healthy individuals served as controls.

Results

Serum levels of all complement components were significantly increased in patients, compared to controls; C5a: 19.9(0.02‐48) vs 9.06(2.1‐16.3)pg/mL, P = .002, Bb: 7.3(0.02‐31.4) vs 0.2(0.02‐1.6)pg/mL, P < .0001, C3a: 4.7(0.4‐7.2) vs 2.4(1.09‐5)pg/mL, P = .05 and C4d: 11.6(0.07‐70) vs 0.7(0.07‐8.2)pg/mL, P = .001, respectively. There was strong correlation between serum Bb levels and eGFR and FFS2009 score at time of diagnosis (r = −.41, P = .002 and r = .41, P = .003 respectively). Also, serum Bb levels were increased in patients with severe interstitial infiltration (P = .04) and focal necrosis (P = .01) on renal biopsy. Serum Bb levels could also predict renal function outcome during the acute phase of disease, but not at the end of follow up.

Conclusion

We provided strong evidence of systemic activation of complement alternative pathway in the development and progression of AAV and glomerulonephritis. Serum Bb seem to play a critical role in the induction, also predicting disease activity and outcome, yet activation of classical pathway cannot be excluded.
MicroRNA‐mediated inflammation and coagulation effects in rats exposed to an inhaled analog of sulfur mustard
Authors: Rana Tapasi , Ahmad Aamir , Zafar Iram , Mariappan Nithya , Chandrashekar Darshan Shimoga , Hamid Tariq , Husain Maroof , Varambally Sooryanarayana , Ahmad Shama , Ahmad Aftab
Published: June 2020

Exposure of rats to 2‐chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES), an analog of sulfur mustard, can cause acute lung injury (ALI), resulting in increased inflammation and coagulation and altered levels of plasma microRNAs (miRNAs). Rats were exposed to aerosolized CEES and euthanized 12 h later for collection of tissue and plasma. Profiling of miRNAs in plasma, using a TaqMan‐based RT‐PCR array, revealed 14 differentially expressed miRNAs. Target gene prediction and pathway analysis revealed miRNA‐mediated regulation of organismal injury, inflammation, and respiratory diseases. miR‐140‐5p, a marker of ALI, was downregulated in the plasma, lung, liver, and kidney of CEES‐exposed rats, with a concomitant increase in the expression of the inflammation markers IL‐6 and IL‐1α and the coagulation marker tissue factor (F3). Exposure of rat airway epithelial cells (RL‐65) to CEES (0.5 mM) caused cell death and a decrease in miR‐140‐5p both in cells and media supernatant. This was accompanied by an increase in cellular mRNA levels of IL‐6, IL‐1α, and F3, as well as FGF9 and EGR2, putative targets of miR‐140. Knockdown of miR‐140 by specific oligos in RL‐65 cells mimicked the in vivo CEES‐mediated effects, leading to significantly increased mRNA levels of IL‐6, IL‐1α, F3, FGF9, and EGR2. Our study identifies miR‐140‐5p as a mediator of CEES‐induced ALI, which could potentially be targeted for therapy.
Prevention of adhesive capsulitis following pacemaker implantation: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Jorat Mohammad Vahid , Namayandeh Seyedeh Mahdieh , Mehdipour Namdar Zahra , Aslani Amir
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Gradual painful loss of active and passive range of motion in shoulder joint was introduced as adhesive capsulitis (AC). Disabilities in patients with AC are absenteeism from work, loss to leisure time, and recurrent seeking to health care services. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of AC following pacemaker implementation. The effect of physical therapy and exercise education was also evaluated to prevent AC following pacemaker implementation.

Methods

This study is a randomized clinical controlled trial. It was conducted on 62 pacemaker candidates. Patients with no shoulder pain and without any motion limits were enrolled in the study consecutively. The patients randomly were divided into two groups after pacemaker implementation. One group was treated with physical therapy (group A, n = 28) and the other group did not (group B, n = 34). The incidence of AC was assessed in both groups after 4 months.

Results

A total of 62 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 63.2 ± 12.1 years in the group A and 67.1 ± 17.6 years in the group B. Age was not significantly different between groups. A total of 11 patients (17.7%) had AC 16 weeks after the initial visit (two patients in group A and nine patients in group B; P = .004).

Conclusions

Incidence of AC is 17.7% following device implantation. Exercise education and physical therapy significantly reduces AC incidence following pacemaker implantation.
Petroleum jelly baths: A tip for easy emollient application
Authors: Baltz Julia O. , Franciosi Ellen B. , Wiss Karen
Published: June 2020

Petroleum jelly has long been a favorite treatment option of dermatologists for atopic dermatitis, despite complaints of “greasiness” by patients and their parents. Here, we describe a simple application method that effectively traps moisture against the skin while leaving behind only a thin layer of product, thus eliminating the “greasiness” associated with petroleum jelly.
Allergic contact dermatitis to immobilization mask used in radiation therapy
Authors: Haddock Ellen E. S. , Barrio Victoria R.
Published: June 2020

Thermoplastic masks made of polyester resin are used to immobilize patients receiving radiation therapy. We describe a case of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to a thermoplastic mask worn by a child receiving proton beam therapy for treatment of medulloblastoma. ACD to a thermoplastic mask in an adult was first reported in 2018. (J Med Case Rep. 2018;12:181) To our knowledge, ACD to a thermoplastic mask has not been reported previously in the pediatric population.
Transcriptomic and functional analyses uncover the regulatory role of lncRNA000170 in tomato multicellular trichome formation
Authors: Liao Xiaoli , Wang Junqiang , Zhu Shunhua , Xie Qingmin , Wang Lin , Yu Huiyang , Ye Zhibiao , Yang Changxian
Published: June 2020

Trichomes are universal specific structures originating from nearly all terrestrial plants. Although quantities of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified in many plant species, the role of lncRNAs in trichome formation still remains unknown. Here, we identified a total of 1303 lncRNAs in the young stems of woolly mutant LA3560 (Wo) and its non‐woolly segregants (WT). Out of these lncRNAs, 86 lncRNAs were obviously upregulated in Wo and 110 lncRNAs were downregulated. We determined that seven lncRNAs were highly expressed in stem trichomes compared to trichome‐free stems and several other tissues of LA3560 by a quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, including lncRNA000746, lncRNA000170, lncRNA000277, lncRNA000774, lncRNA000756, lncRNA000100, and lncRNA000898. Transgenic experiments revealed that overexpression of lncRNA000170 inhibited type I trichome formation on the lower stems of the adult transgenic plants. We further determined that lncRNA000170 was transcribed from the complementary strand of Solyc10g006360, for which expression can be induced by lncRNA000170 in its overexpression lines and woolly mutants. Solyc10g006360 overexpression also caused type I trichome decrease. In addition, several trichome regulators, such as Wo, H, SlCycB2, and SlCycB3, were markedly downregulated in lncRNA000170 overexpression lines. These findings demonstrate that lncRNA000170 may be involved in the regulatory pathway mediated by these trichome regulators.
A tetraploid Echinochloa with plagiotropic tillers: Its distribution and habitat in the northern part of the main island of Japan
Authors: Yasuda Kentaro , Mori Kaoru , Nakayama Yuichiro
Published: June 2020

An annual Echinochloa with plagiotropic tillers (semi‐erect type) was found on a paddy levee in Miyagi prefecture in Japan. This semi‐erect type had tetraploid chromosome numbers (2n = 36) and would be expected to be E. oryzicola. However, its appearance was distinct from that of E. oryzicola. To collect seed samples and clarify its distribution and habitat, exploration and collection surveys were carried out in the northern part of Honshu, the main island of Japan in 2014, 2017, and 2018. Thirty‐two populations that were assumed to be the semi‐erect type were found and their mature seeds were collected. Based on the results of chromosome counts and growth form analyses, all of them were confirmed to be the semi‐erect type. The 32 populations were distributed in the prefectures of Aomori, Iwate, Akita, Miyagi, Yamagata, Fukushima, and Niigata, and located in paddy fields, abandoned paddy fields, paddy levees, roadsides, vacant land, and scree slopes. Our surveys indicated that the semi‐erect type grew in wet and dry disturbed habitats at an early stage of secondary succession including paddy fields in the northern part of the main island of Japan.
Understanding the Performance of Domestic Biodigesters in Bangladesh: A Study from Household Level Survey
Authors: Salam Samira , Parveen Rehena , Nasim Azad S.M. , Salam Md. Abdus
Published: June 2020

Biogas can be an important alternative energy source for the sustainable development of the energy sector. To understand the performance of the family-size biodigester in Bangladesh, a household level survey on randomly selected 360 biodigester adopters was conducted. It is evident from the study that adoption of biodigester at the household level is economically and environmentally viable. Most of the biodigesters were constructed for single household and production of biogas was sufficient for cooking for single household. About 35% of biodigesters generated surplus gas from which they earned money by selling the surplus gas. About 91% of the biodigesters were feed with cow dung, one of the optimal biogases producing substrates, which has easy access in their own households. The factor analysis suggests that the most important factors to make biodigester economically viable are: capacity of biodigester, availability of substrates, amount of investment for biodigester, and economic benefits derived from biodigester.
El carácter dialógico del proceso con reconocimiento de responsabilidad ante la Jurisdicción Especial para la Paz: retos del derecho penal en contextos de justicia transicional
Authors: Cote Barco Gustavo Emilio
Published: June 2020

El presente artículo pretende determinar qué significado puede tener el principio dialógico en el proceso con reconocimiento de responsabilidad en la Jurisdicción Especial para la Paz (JEP), así como explorar posibles implicaciones y dificultades de su concreción. El argumento central es que el principio dialógico constituye un aspecto directamente relacionado con la estructura y el alcance de este proceso, cuyas implicaciones reales aún están por definirse. Sin embargo, la manera como esto ocurra tendrá consecuencias sobre la medida en que se responderá a las expectativas de las víctimas. Las principales dificultades parecen obedecer, en todo caso, a los diferentes objetivos que en este contexto se persiguen con el proceso, dado su carácter penal, restaurativo y transicional, y a las tensiones que surgen entre ellos.
A Model-Guided Neural Network for the Prediction of Creep Behavior Under in-Service Conditions
Authors: Hong Hui , Cai Zhenwei , Wang Han , Wang Weizhe , Liu Yingzheng
Published: June 2020

Data-driven neural network methods have been widely applied for the prediction of stress–strain behavior, but have proven ill-suited for the extrapolation of time-dependent creep behavior. To overcome this problem, we embedded a physics-based model into feedforward neural networks (FFNNs) to construct a model-guided neural network (MGNN). We proposed a new initialization method for the weights in the model, based on selecting the appropriate physics-based model and activation function, and the resulting MGNN was used for predicting the creep behavior of blade-grooves in a steam turbine rotor under in-service conditions. We compared the performance of the MGNN with baseline methods, namely MGNN0, a FFNN, and a nonlinear autoregressive network with exogenous inputs (network). The results showed that the physics-based model and the neural network in the MGNN complemented each other: the model provided physical relationships to guide the neural network, and the neural network provided stress-fluctuation-tracking for the model. This functionality enabled primary creep behavior to be used as training data for the MGNN, enabling it to predict secondary creep behavior.
Quantifying Dysfunction of the Lumbar Multifidus Muscle After Radiofrequency Neurotomy and Fusion Surgery: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Sadeghi Seyedali , Bible Jesse E. , Cortes Daniel H.
Published: June 2020

The multifidus is an important muscle for the active stabilization of the spine. Unfortunately, clinical procedures such as posterior lumbar fusion (PLF) and radio frequency neurotomy (RFN) cause injury to these muscles affecting their function. However, evaluating multifidus function using traditional biomechanical methods is challenging due to its unique anatomical features. The change in muscle shear modulus during contraction has been corrected to force generation for several skeletal muscles. Therefore, the change in shear modulus can be used to quantify muscle contraction. The objective of this study was to evaluate multifidus dysfunction by comparing changes in shear modulus during muscle contraction in healthy individuals and patients who received RFN and PLF in the lumbar spine. We used our recently developed protocol which consists of measuring changes of multifidus shear modulus at lying prone, sitting up, and sitting up with the arms lifted. In healthy individuals, the median multifidus shear modulus increased progressively from prone, sitting, and sitting with arms raised: 18.55 kPa, 27.14 kPa, and 38.45 kPa, respectively. A moderate increase in shear modulus for these body positions was observed in PLF patients: 9.81 kPa, 17.26 kPa, and 21.85 kPa. In RFN patients, the shear modulus remained relatively constant: 14.44 kPa, 16.57 kPa, and 17.26 kPa. Overall, RFN and PLF caused a reduction in the contraction of multifidus muscles. However, the contraction of multifidus muscle slightly increased during multifidus activation in PLF patients, while it did not change in RFN patients. These preliminary measurements suggest that the proposed protocol using SWE can provide important information about the function of individual spine muscles to guide the design and evaluation of postsurgical rehabilitation protocols.
Comparison of Short Stems Versus Straight Hip Stems: A Biomechanical Analysis of the Primary Torsional Stability
Authors: Jahnke Alexander , Ghandourah Suleiman , Fonseca Ulloa Carlos A. , Seeger Jörn Bengt , Rickert Markus , Ishaque Bernd Alexander , Ahmed Gafar Adam
Published: June 2020

Cementless straight stems show very good survival rates. However, the more distal force application of straight stems may lead to release-related proximal stress-shielding. Nevertheless, this technical brief had the objective of conducting a biomechanical in vitro analysis comparing short stems with established straight stems with respect to their primary torsional stability. Two cementless short hip stems and three cementless straight hip stems were implanted in n = 5 synthetic femora each. Torsional torques were applied into the hip stems at a continuous interval of ±7 Nm. Micromotions were measured by six inductive extensometers on four different measurement levels. At the proximal measuring point, significantly smaller relative micromotions of the CLS® prosthesis could be detected compared to all other stem models (p < 0.05). In all stem models, smallest relative micromotions were found at the metaphyseal/diaphyseal measuring point. Only at the measuring point of the distal tips of the straight stems, statistically significantly lower relative micromotion of the CLS® stem compared to the Trendhip® stem could be found (p < 0.01). All the investigated stems generally display a rather comparable anchoring pattern and an almost physiological force application. Since the comparatively long straight stems present an anchoring pattern nearly identical to that of the examined short stems, a shortening of the established straight stems could be taken into consideration. This would offer the advantage of minimally invasive surgery and bone-saving resection as well as preservation of cancellous bone in case a revision would become necessary.
Tuning Thermal Dosage to Facilitate Mesenchymal Stem Cell Osteogenesis in Pro-Inflammatory Environment
Authors: Sunderic Kristifor , Li Chenghai , Ahmed A. H. Rezwanuddin , Dawkins Dionne , Azar Tala , Cardoso Luis , Wang Sihong
Published: June 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that can replicate and differentiate to different lineages, potentiating their use as integral components in regenerated mesenchymal tissues. Our previous work and other studies have indicated that mild heat shock enhances osteogenesis. However, the influence of pro-inflammatory cytokines on osteogenic differentiation during mildly elevated temperature conditions remains to be fully explored. In this study, human MSCs (hMSCs) were cultured with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), an important mediator of the acute phase response, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) which plays a role in damaging chronic inflammation, then heat shocked at 39 °C in varying frequencies—1 h per week (low), 1 h every other day (mild), and 1 h intervals three times per day every other day (high). DNA data showed that periodic mild heating inhibited suppression of cell growth caused by cytokines and induced maximal proliferation of hMSCs while high heating had the opposite effect. Quantitative osteogenesis assays show significantly higher levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium precipitation in osteogenic cultures following mild heating compared to low heating or nonheated controls. These results demonstrate that periodic mild hyperthermia may be used to facilitate bone regeneration using hMSCs, and therefore may influence the design of heat-based therapies in vivo.
Diastolic Vortex Alterations With Reducing Left Ventricular Volume: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Samaee Milad , Nelsen Nicholas H. , Gaddam Manikantam G. , Santhanakrishnan Arvind
Published: June 2020

Despite the large number of studies of intraventricular filling dynamics for potential clinical applications, little is known as to how the diastolic vortex ring properties are altered with reduction in internal volume of the cardiac left ventricle (LV). The latter is of particular importance in LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and in congenital diseases such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), where LV hypertrophy (LVH) can reduce LV internal volume. We hypothesized that peak circulation and the rate of decay of circulation of the diastolic vortex would be altered with reducing end diastolic volume (EDV) due to increasing confinement. We tested this hypothesis on physical models of normal LV and HCM geometries, under identical prescribed inflow profiles and for multiple EDVs, using time-resolved particle image velocimetry (TR-PIV) measurements on a left heart simulator. Formation and pinch-off of the vortex ring were nearly unaffected with changes to geometry and EDV. Pinch-off occurred before the end of early filling (E-wave) in all test conditions. Peak circulation of the vortex core near the LV outflow tract (LVOT) increased with lowering EDV and was lowest for the HCM model. The rate of decay of normalized circulation in dimensionless formation time (T*) increased with decreasing EDV. When using a modified version of T* that included average LV cross-sectional area and EDV, normalized circulation of all tested EDVs collapsed closely in the normal LV model (10% maximum difference between EDVs). Collectively, our results show that LV shape and internal volume play a critical role in diastolic vortex ring dynamics.
Collapse of Conical Shells Having Single Dimple Imperfection Under Axial Compression
Authors: Ifayefunmi Olawale , Mahidan Fairuz Mardhiah
Published: June 2020

This paper aims to provide experimental results into the buckling behavior of cones having single dimple imperfection subjected to axial compression. Results of eight laboratory scaled conical test models and their accompanying numerical data are presented. Cones were manufactured in pairs with single dimple imperfection amplitude, A, of 0.0, 0.56, 1.12, and 1.68. Experimental results reveal good repeatability of collapse load. The errors between each pair were found to be 3%, 7%, 11%, and 1%. Furthermore, the comparison between test data and the numerically predicted collapse load was seen to be good. The ratio of collapse test load to finite element predicted values are [(0.96, 0.99), (1.04, 1.10), (1.06, 0.94), (1.0, 1.01)]. The buckling of axially compressed conical shells using the single dimple imperfection type appears to be strongly influenced by: (i) the dimple/imperfection amplitude, (ii) the cone geometric parameter, i.e., radius-to-thickness ratio and cone angle, and (iii) the location of the dimple.
Hidden biodiversity in the Atlantic Islands. Amblyseiinae (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from Madeira archipelago

Authors: Ferragut Francisco , Baumann Julia
Published: June 2020

Three new phytoseiid species of the subfamily Amblyseiinae, Neoseiulus laetus sp. nov., N. uncinatus sp. nov. and Chelaseius longicervix sp. nov., and the male of Neoseiulus madeirensis Papadoulis & Kapaxidi, are described from the Madeira archipelago. Moreover, six Amblyseiinae species are also reported for the first time from the islands and additional morphological information is provided for Euseius machadoi Ferragut & Peña-Estévez, with a discussion on the variability between Madeiran and Canarian populations.
Teneriffia sebahatae sp. nov. (Acari: Trombidiformes: Teneriffiidae), the first teneriffiid mite from Turkey

Authors: Ueckermann Edward A. , Durucan Furkan
Published: June 2020

A new species of the family Teneriffiidae, Teneriffia sebahatae sp. nov., is described. It was collected on the sea shore of Antalya, Turkey. It is distinguished from other species in this genus by the absence of “clasps” on the venter of the gnathosoma, fewer ventral setae and the number of solenidia on tarsi III and IV. A revised key to all the species of the genus Teneriffia is provided. The new species represents the first report of Teneriffiidae from Turkey.
Cyclic etching of copper thin films using HBr and Ar gases
Authors: Lim Eun Taek , Cha Moon Hwan , Park Sung Yong , Lee Ji Su , Chung Chee Won
Published: June 2020

Sequential cyclic etching of copper thin films was performed using HBr/Ar gas and Ar plasma. The first step involved the formation of CuBrx layers by exposing copper thin films to HBr/Ar gas, and the second step involved the removal of the CuBrx layers by Ar ion sputtering. HBr/Ar gas was used to form the CuBrx layers, and the growth of CuBrx layers could be saturated under certain conditions. Ar ion sputtering was optimized under the condition that led to the removal of the CuBrx layer and prevented the copper sputtering. The formation and removal of the CuBrx layers were confirmed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The etch depth per cycle was estimated to be approximately 1.2 nm. The 120-cycle etching of copper films patterned with an SiO2 hard mask exhibited good etch profiles without any redepositions or etch residues. The cyclic etching of copper thin films using HBr/Ar gas was proposed as a promising etching technique.
Evolution and Population Dynamics of Clonal Complex 152 Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Baig Sharmin , Rhod Larsen Anders , Martins Simões Patrícia , Laurent Frédéric , Johannesen Thor Bech , Lilje Berit , Tristan Anne , Schaumburg Frieder , Egyir Beverly , Cirkovic Ivana , Nimmo Graeme R. , Spiliopoulou Iris , Blanc Dominique S. , Mernelius Sara , Moen Aina Elisabeth Fossum , David Michael Z. , Andersen Paal Skytt , Stegger Marc
Published: June 2020

Understanding the evolution of CA-MRSA is important in light of the increasing importance of this reservoir in the dissemination of MRSA. Here, we highlight the story of the CA-MRSA CC152 lineage using whole-genome sequencing on an international collection of CC152. We show that the evolution of this lineage is novel and that antibiotic usage may have the potential to select for the phage-encoded Panton-Valentine leukocidin. The diversity of the strains correlated highly to geography, with higher level of resistance observed among the European MRSA isolates. The mobility of the SCC
mec
element is mandatory for the emergence of novel MRSA lineages, and we show here distinct acquisitions, one of which is linked to the successful clone found throughout Europe today.
RNAs That Behave Like Prions
Authors: Mushegian Arcady R. , Elena Santiago F.
Published: June 2020

The term “prion” was originally coined to describe the proteinaceous infectious agents involved in mammalian neurological disorders. More recently, a prion has been defined as a nonchromosomal, protein-based genetic element that is capable of converting the copies of its own benign variant into the prion form, with the new phenotypic effects that can be transmitted through the cytoplasm. Some prions are toxic to the cell, are able to aggregate and/or form amyloid structures, and may be infectious in the wild, but none of those traits are seen as an integral property of all prions.
Efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty and pattern scanning laser trabeculoplasty: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wong Mandy Oi Man , Lai Isabel SW , Chan Poemen Puiman , Chan Noel CY , Chan Alison YY , Lai Gilda WK , Chiu Vivian SM , Leung Christopher Kai-Shun
Published: June 2020

Aims

To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect and safety profile between pattern scanning laser trabeculoplasty (PSLT) and selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) over a 12-month follow-up.

Methods

132 patients with POAG or OHT were consecutively enrolled and randomised (1:1) to receive PSLT (n=65) or SLT (n=67) in a single centre. IOP was measured before and then on 1 day, 1 week, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after PSLT/SLT. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with ≥20% IOP reduction at 12 months without IOP-lowering medications (complete success).

Results

The mean baseline IOP was 21.2±4.1 mm Hg for eyes randomised to PSLT and 21.3±4.7 mm Hg for eyes randomised to SLT (p=0.898). At 12 months, the IOP was 18.3±3.1 and 17.8±3.4 mm Hg, respectively (p=0.402). IOP measurements were comparable between the groups over 12 months (overall mean difference 0.4 mm Hg, 95% CI: −0.5 to 1.3 mm Hg). 15.4% of PSLT-treated and 25.4% of SLT-treated patients achieved treatment success (difference: 10.0%, 95% CI: −3.6 to 23.6) (p=0.155), respectively. A higher baseline IOP and a greater percentage of IOP reduction at day 1 were associated with a greater percentage of IOP reduction at 12 months (p<0.001). There were no significant differences in visual field mean deviation, average retinal nerve fibre layer thickness, corneal endothelial cell count and visual acuity between the treatment groups at the baseline and 12-month follow-up (p≥0.062).

Conclusions

PSLT was not superior to SLT in terms of safety and IOP-lowering efficacy in patients with POAG or OHT.

Trial registration number

The clinical trial was registered in the Centre for Research and Biostatistics Clinical Trials Registry, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Identifier CUHK_CCT00407). The full trial protocol can be accessed from the authors on request.
Combating hepatitis B and C by 2030: achievements, gaps, and options for actions in China
Authors: Chen Shu , Mao Wenhui , Guo Lei , Zhang Jiahui , Tang Shenglan
Published: June 2020

China has the highest number of hepatitis B and C cases globally. Despite remarkable achievements, China faces daunting challenges in achieving international targets for hepatitis elimination. As part of a large-scale project assessing China’s progress in achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals using quantitative, qualitative data and mathematical modelling, this paper summarises the achievements, gaps and challenges, and proposes options for actions for hepatitis B and C control. China has made substantial progress in controlling chronic viral hepatitis. The four most successful strategies have been: (1) hepatitis B virus childhood immunisation; (2) prevention of mother-to-child transmission; (3) full coverage of nucleic acid amplification testing in blood stations and (4) effective financing strategies to support treatment. However, the total number of deaths due to hepatitis B and C is estimated to increase from 434 724 in 2017 to 527 829 in 2030 if there is no implementation of tailored interventions. Many health system barriers, including a fragmented governance system, insufficient funding, inadequate service coverage, unstandardised treatment and flawed information systems, have compromised the effective control of hepatitis B and C in China. We suggest five strategic priority actions to help eliminate hepatitis B and C in China: (1) restructure the viral hepatitis control governance system; (2) optimise health resource allocation and improve funding efficiency; (3) improve access to and the quality of the health benefits package, especially for high-risk groups; (4) strengthen information systems to obtain high-quality hepatitis epidemiological data; (5) increase investment in viral hepatitis research and development.
Assessing palliative care education in undergraduate medical students: translation and validation of the Self-Efficacy in Palliative Care and Thanatophobia Scales for Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Gryschek Guilherme , Cecilio-Fernandes Dario , Mason Stephen , de Carvalho-Filho Marco Antonio
Published: June 2020

Background

As the global population ages, palliative care is ever more essential to provide care for patients with incurable chronic conditions. However, in many countries, doctors are not prepared to care for dying patients. Palliative care education should be an urgent concern for all medical schools all around the world, including Latin America and Brazil. Advances in palliative care education require robust assessment tools for constant evaluation and improvement of educational programmes. Bandura’s social cognitive theory proposes that active learning processes are mediated by self-efficacy and associated outcome expectancies, both crucial elements of developing new behaviour. The Self-Efficacy in Palliative Care (SEPC) and Thanatophobia Scales were developed using Bandura’s theory to assess the outcomes of palliative care training.

Objectives

We aimed to translate and validate these scales for Brazilian Portuguese to generate data on how well doctors are being prepared to meet the needs of their patients.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

One Brazilian medical school.

Participants

Third-year medical students.

Methods

The authors translated the scales following the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer’s recommendations and examined their psychometric properties using data collected from a sample of 111 students in a Brazilian medical school in 2017.

Results

The Brazilian versions of SEPC and Thanatophobia Scales showed good psychometric properties, including confirmatory factor analysis, replicating the original factors (factor range: 0.51–0.90), and acceptable values of reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.82–0.97 and composite reliability: 0.82–0.96). Additionally, the Brazilian versions of the scales showed concurrent validity, demonstrated through a significant negative correlation.

Conclusions

The Brazilian version of the scales may be used to assess the impact of current undergraduate training and identify areas for improvement within palliative care educational programmes. The data generated allow Brazilian researchers to join international conversations on this topic and educators to develop tailored pedagogical approaches.
Risk factors for bleeding in haemato-oncology patients—a nested case–control study: The BITE study protocol (Bleeding In Thrombocytopenia Explained)
Authors: Cornelissen Loes L , Caram-Deelder Camila , van der Bom Johanna G , Middelburg Rutger A , Zwaginga Jaap Jan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Haemato-oncological patients often receive platelet count driven prophylactic platelet transfusions to prevent bleeding. However, many prophylactically transfused patients still bleed. More knowledge on risk factors for bleeding is therefore needed. This will enable identification of bleeding risk profiles on which future transfusion policy can be optimised. The present BITE study (Bleeding In Thrombocytopenia Explained) aims to identify clinical conditions and biomarkers that are associated with clinically relevant bleeding events.

Methods and analysis

A matched case–control study nested in a cohort of haemato-oncological patients in the Netherlands. We collect a limited number of variables from all eligible patients, who together form the source population. These patients are followed for the occurrence of clinically relevant bleeding. Consenting patients of the source population form the cohort. Cases from the cohort are frequency matched to selected control patients for the nested case–control study. Of both case and control patients more detailed clinical data is collected.

Study population

Adult haemato-oncological patients, who are admitted for intensive chemotherapeutic treatment or stem cell transplantation, or who received such treatments in the past and are readmitted for disease or treatment-related adverse events.

Statistical analysis

Bleeding incidences will be calculated for the total source population, as well as for different subgroups. The association between potential risk factors and the occurrence of bleeding will be analysed using conditional logistic regression, to account for matching of case and control patients.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee Leiden Den Haag and Delft, and the Radboudumc Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects. Approval in seven other centres is foreseen. Patients will be asked for written informed consent and data is coded before analyses, according to Dutch privacy law. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NL62499.058.17. NCT03505086; Pre-results.
Elastic-band resistance exercise or vibration treatment in combination with hydroxymethylbutyrate (HMB) supplement for management of sarcopenia in older people: a study protocol for a single-blinded randomised controlled trial in Hong Kong
Authors: Chow Simon Kwoon-Ho , Chim Yu-Ning , Cheng Keith Yu-Kin , Ho Chung-Yan , Ho Wing-Tung , Cheng Kenneth Chik-Chee , Wong Ronald Man-Yeung , Cheung Wing-Hoi
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome characterised by progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and function with risks of adverse outcomes and becomes more prevalent due to ageing population. Elastic-band exercise, vibration treatment and hydroxymethylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation were previously proven to have positive effects on the control of sarcopenia. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of elastic-band exercise or vibration treatment with HMB supplementation in managing sarcopenia. Our findings will provide a safe and efficient strategy to mitigate the progression of sarcopenia in older people and contribute to higher quality of life as well as improved long-term health outcomes of elderly people.

Methods and analysis

In this single-blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT), subjects will be screened for sarcopenia based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) definition and 144 sarcopenic subjects aged 65 or above will be recruited. This RCT will have three groups evaluated at two time points to measure changes over 3 months—the control and the groups with combined HMB supplement and elastic-band resistance exercise or vibration treatment. Changes in muscle strength in lower extremity will be the primary outcome. Muscle strength in the upper extremity, gait speed, muscle mass (based on AWGS definition), functional performance in terms of balancing ability and time-up-and-go test and quality of life will be taken as secondary outcomes. In addition, each participant’s daily activity will be monitored by a wrist-worn activity tracker. Repeated-measures analysis of variance will be performed to compare within-subject changes between control and treatment groups at two time points of pretreatments and post-treatments.

Ethics and dissemination

The procedures have been approved by the Joint CUHK-NTEC Clinical Research Management Office (Ref. CREC 2018.602) and conformed to the Declaration of Helsinki. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conferences and workshops.

Trial registration number

NCT04028206.
Interpretation of China’s 2017 health expenditure: a latent profile analysis of panel data
Authors: Zang Shuang , Zhao Meizhen , OuYang Jing , Wang Xin
Published: June 2020

Objective

To explore the latent structure of health financing and the institutional distribution of health expenditure (focused on hospital expenditure) in provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities of mainland China, and to examine how these profiles may be related to their externalising and internalising characteristics.

Study design

The study used panel data harvested from the China National Health Accounts Report 2018.

Methods

Mainland China’s provincial data on health expenditure in 2017 was studied. A latent profile analysis was conducted to identify health financing and hospital health expenditure profiles in China. Additionally, rank-sum tests were used to understand the difference of socioeconomic indicators between subgroups.

Results

A best-fitting three-profile solution for per capita health financing was identified, with government health expenditure (χ2=10.137, p=0.006) and social health expenditure (χ2=6.899, p=0.032) varying significantly by profiles. Health expenditure in hospitals was subject to a two-profile solution with health expenditure flow to urban hospitals, county hospitals and community health service centres having significant differences between the two profiles (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Per capita health financing and health expenditure spent in hospitals have discrepant socioeconomic characteristics in different profiles, which may be attributed to macroeconomic factors and government policies. The study provided new and explicit ideas for health financing and health policy regulation in China.
Novel frameshift variant (c.409dupG) inSLC25A38is a common cause of congenital sideroblastic anaemia in the Indian subcontinent
Authors: Ravindra Niveditha , Athiyarath Rekha , S Eswari , S Sumithra , Kulkarni Uday , N A Fouzia , Korula Anu , Shaji Ramachandran V , George Biju , Edison Eunice Sindhuvi
Published: June 2020

Aims

Congenital sideroblastic anaemias (CSAs) are a group of rare disorders with the presence of ring sideroblasts in the bone marrow. Pathogenic variants are inherited in an autosomal recessive/X-linked fashion. The study was aimed at characterising the spectrum of mutations inSLC25A38andALAS2genes in sideroblastic anaemia patients, exploring the genotype-phenotype correlation and identifying the haplotype associated with any recurrent mutation.

Patients and methods

Twenty probable CSA patients were retrospectively analysed for genetic variants inALAS2andSLC25A38genes by direct bidirectional sequencing. Real-time PCR was used to quantify gene expression in a case with promoter region variant inALAS2. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms were used to establish the haplotype associated with a recurrent variant in theSLC25A38gene.

Results

Six patients had causative variants inALAS2(30%) and 11 had variants inSLC25A38(55%). TheALAS2mutated cases presented at a significantly later age than theSLC25A38cases. A frameshift variant inSLC25A38(c.409dupG) was identified in six unrelated patients and was a common variant in our population exhibiting ‘founder effect’.

Conclusion

This is the largest series of sideroblastic anaemia cases with molecular characterisation from the Indian subcontinent.
COVID-19 autopsy in people who died in community settings: the first series
Authors: Youd Esther , Moore Luiza
Published: June 2020

Here, we report the pathological findings of nine complete autopsies of individuals who died in community settings in the UK, three of which were positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), three tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 but are likely false negatives, and three died of other respiratory infections. Autopsy revealed firm, consolidated lungs or lobar pneumonia. Histology of the lungs showed changes of diffuse alveolar damage with fibrin membrane formation, thickened alveolar walls and interstitium with lymphocytic infiltrate, and type 2 pneumocyte hyperplasia with shedding into the alveolar space. This series is the first in the world to describe autopsy findings in individuals dying suddenly in the community, not previously known to have COVID-19 infection, and the first autopsy series in the UK. During a time when testing in the UK is currently primarily offered to patients in hospital or symptomatic key workers, with limited testing available in community settings, it highlights the importance of testing for COVID-19 at autopsy. Two deaths occurred in care homes where a diagnosis of COVID-19 allowed the health protection team to provide support in that ‘closed setting’ to reduce the risks of onward transmission. This work highlights the need for frequent COVID-19 testing in the management of patients in community settings. Comprehensive virology and microbiology assessment is pivotal to correctly identify the cause of death, including those due to COVID-19 infection, and to derive accurate death statistics.