bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Krankheitsbezogene Belastungen bei Diabetes
Authors: Ehrmann Dominic
Published: November 2020

Diabetes-Distress stellt ein Maß für verschiedene krankheitsbezogene Belastungen bei Diabetes dar. Es bezeichnet eine mangelnde psychosoziale Anpassung an die Anforderungen des Diabetes und der Behandlung. Diabetes-Distress entsteht, wenn die individuellen Coping-Fähigkeiten nicht ausreichen, um mit diabetesbedingten Stressoren umzugehen. Jedoch kann Diabetes-Distress als eine erwartbare Reaktion verstanden werden und ist nicht per se pathologisch. Ein erhöhtes Ausmaß an Diabetes-Distress geht jedoch mit einem schlechteren Diabetes-Selbstmanagement und einer schlechteren glykämischen Kontrolle einher. Zudem ist ein erhöhter Diabetes-Distress ein Risikofaktor für die Entstehung depressiver Störungen und beeinträchtigt die Lebensqualität. Daher sollte ein regelmäßiges Monitoring mit validierten Fragebögen erfolgen. Interventionsansätze umfassen die regelmäßige Besprechung von emotionalen Aspekten des Diabetes im Rahmen von Einzelgesprächen, die Teilnahme an einer strukturierten Gruppenschulung, sowie spezifische psychosoziale Angebote.
Barriers and facilitators to lifestyle risk communication by Australian general practice nurses
Authors: James Sharon , Halcomb Elizabeth , Desborough Jane , McInnes Susan
Published: November 2020

Lifestyle risk factors are antecedents to many chronic conditions and are largely modifiable. Health professional support is often sought to reduce lifestyle risk. The ongoing relationship general practice nurses typically have with patients situates them ideally to provide this support. This paper explores the barriers and facilitators to lifestyle risk communication by registered nurses (RNs) in Australian general practice. Fifteen general practice RNs from south-eastern Australia participated in semistructured interviews. Verbatim transcriptions of the audio-recorded interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes emerged in terms of perceived barriers and facilitators: educational preparation and confidence; organisational and funding arrangements; lifestyle risk prioritisation; organisational support; autonomous roles; and supporting patients’ needs. Although communication about lifestyle risk factors is within the general practice nurses’ scope of practice, concerted efforts fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the prioritisation of time, funding and educational opportunities would better support this role, at the same time optimising chronic disease management and patient outcomes.
The
Arabidopsis
NRT1/PTR FAMILY protein NPF7.3/NRT1.5 is an indole-3-butyric acid transporter involved in root gravitropism
Authors: Watanabe Shunsuke , Takahashi Naoki , Kanno Yuri , Suzuki Hiromi , Aoi Yuki , Takeda-Kamiya Noriko , Toyooka Kiminori , Kasahara Hiroyuki , Hayashi Ken-ichiro , Umeda Masaaki , Seo Mitsunori
Published: November 2020

Significance

Plant roots grow toward gravity. The phenomenon is known as “root gravitropism” as early described by Charles Darwin, and it has been well established that the plant hormone auxin plays a central role in this response. The major endogenous auxin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), is mainly synthesized from tryptophan via indole-3-pyruvic acid, whereas indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) is a minor precursor of IAA. Previous studies have shown that IAA derived from IBA plays a specific role in regulating lateral root development. However, in the present study we demonstrate through the identification and characterization of IBA transporter NPF7.3/NRT1.5 that IAA synthesized from IBA regulates root gravitropism.
The political nature of fantasy and political fantasies of nature
Authors: Behagel Jelle Hendrik , Mert Ayşem
Published: November 2020

Within post-structuralist discourse theory, there has been an ongoing interest in fantasy and the fantasmatic logic. We propose a new way forward and suggest a focus on fantasies of ‘nature’ and what is deemed ‘natural’. Fantasies are structurally entwined with language, desire, and political ontologies. Discourses of nature hold a privileged position in this entwinement. We use the psychoanalytic concept of fantasy to explore how symbolic engagement with the world is supported by fantasmatic mechanisms. We argue that political fantasies express political subjects and objects via the imaginary mechanisms of splitting and projection. In an era of ecological crises and global pandemics, we find that fantasies that create a split between nature and society are a central part of the transformation of political imaginaries and discourses. Studying fantasies of various “naturecultures” and the politics of nature is thus an important new direction for discourse theory to explore anti-essentialist ontologies.
Discourse, concepts, ideologies
Authors: Freeden Michael
Published: November 2020

Two branches of discourse studies, critical discourse analysis (CDA) and discourse theory (DT), could benefit through extending their critical focus and incorporating findings and methodologies of neighbouring disciplines. While indebted to the attentiveness of CDA to ordinary language, ideology studies have by contrast developed interpretative, non-judgmental analytical frameworks that explore the many-faceted features of ideology, power, and the political. In turn, the macro-focus of DT on binary distinctions, articulatory equivalences, and the construction of hegemony through empty signifiers, overlooks the complex internal conceptual morphology that produces multiple ideological vocabularies. Through a layered filtering of texts, utterances, and linguistic intensities, ideological micro-morphology reveals processes of semantic decontestation in order to defend, alter or criticize political thought-practices. It illuminates the complex interrelationship between word and concept and accepts fantasies as ineluctable and decodable features of communal life. By reaching out beyond their disciplinary confines, the interplay of these parallel approaches could enrich the scholarly understanding of the political.
Memories and semiotic resources in place-making
Authors: Phan Nhan
Published: November 2020

This paper explores how semiotic resources are used to build individuals’ place-making during a walk around the Old
Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam. Using Lefebvre’s (1991) spatial triad as the
perceived, the lived and the conceived, the paper uses a case study of a local
participant and myself to consider how our differing perspectives affect place-making. I show how the local resident makes meaning using
perceived resources in the here-and-now as backdrops for the lived, presented via his recounting of
memories of activity spaces. I then contrast how these memories differ from the researcher’s place-making, where the
conceived affects how I perceive the significance of visual resources on signs in the here-and-now. The
study shows the value of Lefebvre’s (1991) triad for explaining the conflicting generalisations
researchers have made about the nature of what is seen in the linguistic landscape or about the roles played by linguistic landscape in
defining place.
Tip-induced superconductivity commonly existing in the family of transition-metal dipnictides MP

n
2

*
Authors: Zhang Meng-Di , Xu Sheng , Hou Xing-Yuan , Gu Ya-Dong , Zhang Fan , Xia Tian-Long , Ren Zhi-An , Chen Gen-Fu , Hao Ning , Shan Lei
Published: November 2020

We report the tip-induced superconductivity on the topological semimetal NbSb2, similar to the observation on TaAs2 and NbAs2. Belonging to the same family of MPn
2, all these materials possess similar band structures, indicating that the tip-induced superconductivity may be closely related to their topological nature and share a common mechanism. Further analysis suggests that a bulk band should play the dominant role in such local superconductivity most likely through interface coupling. In addition, the compatibility between the induced superconductivity and tips’ ferromagnetism gives an evidence for its unconventional nature. These results provide further clues to elucidate the mechanism of the tip-induced superconductivity observed in topological materials.
Optimization in designing heat flux concentrators
Authors: Alekseev Gennady , Tereshko Dmitry
Published: November 2020

Inverse problems for a 2D heat conduction model connected with developing technologies of designing thermal concentrators are considered. The shells are assumed consisting of a finite number of sectors every of which is filled with homogeneous isotropic medium. By optimization method these problems are reduced to finite-dimensional extremum problems for the solution of which the particle swarm optimization is used. Rigorous optimization analysis shows that concentrators designed using optimization method have the highest efficiency in the class of devices under consideration and are easy for implementation.
Control of a separated flow behind a back-facing step by means of tabs
Authors: Barsukov A V , Terekhov V V , Terekhov V I
Published: November 2020

The result of numerical simulation of a flat channel with a back-facing step in the presence of tabs by the RANS method is presented. The Reynolds number, calculated by the step height and the average flow rate velocity, was Re = 5000. The data obtained made it possible to analyze the dynamics of interaction between the separated flow behind a tab and the region of the main separation behind a step. Tabs have the greatest influence on the area in close proximity to the step.
On developing methods for predicting the laminar–turbulent transition in aerodynamic applications
Authors: Boiko A V , Demyanko K V , Ivanov A V , Kirilovskiy S V , Mishenko D A , Nechepurenko Y M , Poplavskaya T V
Published: November 2020

Actual fundamental and computational problems of laminar–turbulent transition prediction in aerodynamic flows are discussed. The author’s approach based on the exp(N)-method is briefly described. The results of experimental studies aimed at clarifying the calibration of the exp(N)-method is highlighted. Particularly, one of the main problem is a limited experimental database for verification of different approaches for the transition prediction. To extend such a database, it is necessary to document in detail the flow parameters (velocity, free-stream turbulence level, etc.) and the model parameters (geometry, surface roughness, angle of attack, etc.) as well as to document in a statistically sound way the position of laminar-turbulent transition on the surface of experimental model. To this end we develop an experimental method of parametric measurements in different flow regimes of three-dimensional aerodynamic flows based on the thermal analysis of the surface.
The problem of the natural oscillations of a rectangle in the micropolar theory of elasticity
Authors: Gavrilieva Anna , Grigor’ev Yuri
Published: November 2020

We consider the plane problem of natural harmonic oscillations of a rectangle with mixed boundary conditions within the framework of the linear theory of micropolar elasticity. The exact analytical solution of the problem under consideration was obtained by the new method. A parametric analysis of the obtained exact solution is carried out according to which there is a “size effect”. It consists in an increase in micropolar effects with a decrease in the size of the rectangle compared with the classical case. The proposed method can be developed for the case of other boundary conditions and for the three-dimensional case.
Deflection of broken ice caused by an external load moving along a channel
Authors: Zavyalova K N , Shishmarev K A , Khabakhpasheva T I
Published: November 2020

The unsteady problem of a load moving along a channel covered with broken ice is considered. Deflection of the broken ice is described by the equation of flotating liquid. The channel has a rectangular cross-section. The fluid in the channel is inviscid and incompressible. The flow caused by deflections of broken ice is potential. The external load is modeled by a smooth localized pressure distribution which moves along the centre line of the channel at a constant speed. With the help of the Fourier transform along the channel the original problem was reduced to the problem of the wave profile across the channel, which was solved by the method of separating variables. The deflections of the broken ice are studied for large times. The solution is presented in the form of sum of local deflection near the load and infinite system of waves propagating from the load with the speed of the load. Dispersion relations, phase and group speeds of these waves are found. The formation of gravity waves in a channel covered with broken ice depending on the speed of the load is studied.
The growth of agglomerates in the conditions of detonation synthesis of diamond
Authors: Kudryashova O B , Petrov E A , Kolesová A A
Published: November 2020

The conditions of detonation synthesis of nanodiamonds do not affect the size of diamond microcrystallites too much, as was shown in numerous experimental studies. This is because microcrystallites are formed almost instantly at the moment of explosive detonation, when conditions are created for crystallization of the diamond carbon phase. Further expansion of detonation products only leads to the creation and enlargement of particle agglomerates. The product of detonation synthesis is always a powder consisting of agglomerates of carbon particles of diamond and non-diamond phases with impurities. The size, density and specific surface area of the agglomerates can be different depending on the synthesis conditions. These product characteristics are of great importance for further technological applications. Meanwhile, the processes of agglomerate formation under conditions of expansion of detonation products have not yet been considered. In this paper, we theoretically consider this process. The dependences of the size and specific surface of carbon agglomerates on the conditions of detonation synthesis were obtained, and comparison with experimental data was made.
Entropy solutions of an ultra-parabolic equation with the one-sided Dirac delta function as the minor term
Authors: Kuznetsov I V , Sazhenkov S A
Published: November 2020

The Cauchy-Dirichlet problem for the genuinely nonlinear ultra-parabolic equation with the piece-wise smooth minor term is considered. The minor term depends on a small positive parameter and collapses to the one-sided Dirac delta function as this parameter tends to zero. As the result, we arrive at the limiting initial-boundary value problem for the impulsive ultra-parabolic equation. The peculiarity is that the standard entropy solution of the problem for the impulsive equation generally is not unique. In this report, we propose a rule for selecting the ‘proper’ entropy solution, relying on the limiting procedure in the original problem incorporating the smooth minor term.
On differential invariants of an equivalence group and their geometric meaning
Authors: Megrabov A G
Published: November 2020

Previously, the properties of the Lie group G, which is an equivalence group of the eikonal equation, wave equation, and other differential equations (DEs), have been studied by the author in the two-dimensional case; various applications to mathematical physics and differential geometry have been obtained. This paper presents a study of the three-dimensional analogue of the G group, the ten-parameter G
10 group, which is a subgroup of the main equivalence group of the three-dimensional eikonal equation, acoustics equation, and other DEs. Its differential invariants (DIs) up to the third order and invariant differentiation operators (IDOs) were calculated. The geometric meaning of some DIs of the group G
10 (the scalar curvature R of Riemannian space with the metric dl
2 = n
2(x, y, z)(dx
2 + dy
2 + dz
2), its first and second Beltrami differential parameters Δ1
u and Δ2
u, and other quantities) and IDOs was found. An expression for R was derived in terms of other DIs of the group G
10. To obtain this expression, and DIs and IDOs of the group G
10, we use the geometric analogy with the two-dimensional case and differential and Riemannian geometry.
The conjugation thin inclusions problem in elastic bodies with crack
Authors: Nikolaeva Natalia
Published: November 2020

A problem of pairing thin elastic and rigid inclusions with possible delamination in elastic bodies is considered. On the crack and at the intersection of the crack with a hard inclusion, boundary conditions are imposed in the form of inequalities, excluding mutual penetration of the crack faces and thin inclusions. The existence and uniqueness of the solution of the problem is established. It is shown that a corresponding variational statement is equivalent to a differential setting. A passage to the limit as stiffness parameter of thin inclusions tends to infinity is investigated.
Equilibrium and dynamics of porous and cracked media
Authors: Sibiryakov B P , Sibiryakov E B
Published: November 2020

We established equilibrium and motion equations for media with internal structure, characterized by integral geometry parameters. These equations are linear differential equations of the infinite order. Besides usual elastic waves, there are many waves with sufficiently lower velocities without bottom limit. Corresponding dispersion equations have both real and imaginary roots. Complex roots represent parametric resonances (catastrophes). This model of structured continuum describes intermediate states between statics and dynamics. It means that the equilibrium equations are valid for large scales, while the dynamic equations are valid in small ones.
On well-posedness of the plasma-vacuum interface problem with displacement current in vacuum
Authors: Morando A , Secchi P , Trakhinin Y , Trebeschi P
Published: November 2020

We consider the plasma-vacuum interface problem in ideal incompressible magneto-hydrodynamics. Unlike the classical statement when the vacuum magnetic field obeys the div-curl system of pre-Maxwell dynamics, to better understand the influence of the electric field in vacuum we do not neglect the displacement current in the vacuum region and consider the Maxwell equations for electric and magnetic fields. Under the necessary and sufficient stability condition for a planar interface found earlier by Trakhinin, we prove an energy a priori estimate for the linearized constant coefficient problem. The process of derivation of this estimate is based on various methods, including a secondary symmetrization of the vacuum Maxwell equations, the derivation of a hyperbolic evolutionary equation for the interface function and the construction of a degenerate Kreiss-type symmetrizer for an elliptic-hyperbolic problem for the total pressure.
Using swarm intelligence optimization methods for transport functions of vascular bypasses: first results and perspectives
Authors: Kuianova Iuliia , Dubovoy rey , Parshin Daniil
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we consider the problem of the optimal location of the bypass graft. An electrical analogue of the cerebral vascular hemodynamic model was built, which was solved numerically using swarm intelligence methods. The optimization objective was the pressure after shunt formation in relation to the set pressure before shunting. This method was first time applied to the cerebral bypass problem, the results are in good agreement with the data of real operations.
Construction of simulation models for analyzing high-intensity shock effects in a spacecraft
Authors: Orlov S A , Matveev K A , Rastorguev G I
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we consider the procedure for constructing stochastic models (based on processing of experimental data). These models allow to assess the propagation of high-intensity shock effects on the performance of unpressurized spacecrafts. The developed models are recommended for simulation of the load and the model of the system under study. Show the histograms of the distribution of total values of the impact reduction coefficient for typical structural joints, trusses, and shock isolators. The developed method allows to obtain an acceptable estimate of the propagation of high-intensity shock effects in the SC design.
Analysis of the processing mechanism in a centrifugal concentrator with a horizontal axis of rotation
Authors: Afanasenko S I
Published: November 2020

This scientific work presents the results of comparative tests of centrifugal concentrators with a vertical and horizontal axis of rotor spinning. The article also describes a qualitative analysis of the behavior of mineral particles in a centrifugal field with fluidization for concentrators with a horizontal axis. The experiment demonstrated that concentrators with a horizontal axis are not inferior in terms of the qualitative recovery indicators to concentrators with a vertical axis. The researches also provided facts about the wide practical application of concentrators with a horizontal rotor arrangement.
Analysis of megascience facilities legal regulation
Authors: Andreasyan A , Balyakin A
Published: November 2020

Many countries have now understood the importance of high technology for the society development and are now regulating them in a legal area. In the Russian Federation, the creation of megasaience facilities is included in the state programme for scientific and technological development. Megascience projects for basic research in various fields are actively developed as an enterprise based on international cooperation. The specifics of work in such projects and the availability of international cooperation require special attention in terms of legal regulation. In addition, it should be noted that in the field of scientific research, a particular approach to regulating issues in the distribution of risks, financing, responsibility etc. is being developed. This paper discusses a number of issues related to the work setup on megascience facilities. Examples of soft law and hoftlaw implementations in the field of legal regulation of scientific activity are given.
The system of financial control of the projects of the Megascience class in the Russian Federation
Authors: Sitnik A A
Published: November 2020

This article is dedicated to the system of financial control of the projects of the megascience class in the Russian Federation. The author highlighted the structure of this system, defined the goal, objectives, and principles of financial control of projects of the megascience class, investigated the features of the implementation of external and internal state financial (budget) control of megascience projects. The article concludes that the priority of budget financing for megascience projects in the Russian Federation predetermines the leading role of budget control. The financial control model is also influenced by the organizational and legal form used in the implementation of megascience projects. The article demonstrates that the assignment of the functions of the operator of megascience projects to an international intergovernmental organization or a specially created organization with the distribution of shares among the countries participating in the project, allows to provide more transparency of information on the progress of its implementation in general and financing in particular. The study showed the need for wider application of independent audit control of megascience projects being implemented in the territory of the Russian Federation. Based on the results of the study, proposals were formulated aimed at increasing the efficiency of spending money in the process of implementing megascience projects and the transparency of the activities of scientific institutions with regards to the public.
Refusal to deal in the field of technologies as a form of abusing of a dominant position in European and Eurasian unions law
Authors: Slepak V
Published: November 2020

Nowadays the objective of strengthening scientific and technological bases is not only the goal of individual states but an objective of integration organisations as well. Both European and Eurasian legal systems consider competition a key element for economical and technological development. Rivalry between various research institutes is an essential driver of economic and scientific efficiency, in absence of which the dominant undertaking would lack adequate incentives to continue to create. Sometimes further technological development is impossible without an access to technological solutions owned by dominant undertaking refusing to grant such access. In this case it is necessary to find a due balance between intellectual property rights of such owing undertaking and necessity of requesting company. The EU case law developed a test allowing to asses whether the refusal to make a deal granting an access to a new technology complies with EU law or amounts an abuse of a dominant position. This paper deals with key elements of this test – i.e. (1) the refusal must be likely to eliminate all competition in the market on the part of the person requesting the service; (2) the refusal must be incapable of being objectively justified; (3) the service in itself must be indispensable to sustain the business; (4) there must exist no actual or potential substitute for the service in question – and studies perspectives of using the same test within Eurasian Economic Union.
French experience: international mobility of researchers in light of implementing the governmental tasks to increase efficiency of innovative sectors of economy
Authors: Zakharova M V
Published: November 2020

The term “innovation” was first used at the beginning of the 20th century by renowned economist Joseph Schumpeter meaning the changes aimed at implementing and using new types of consumer goods, new methods of production and vehicles, markets and forms of organization in industry. However, it is in recent years that the innovative sectors of economy have become noticeable in the national space of various countries on the political and economic map of the world. According to consultancies, the leading positions in the sector of innovation are held by digital companies. The slogan of one of them (Apple) – Think Different – is a most accurate reflection of the general logic of the intellectual and, ultimately, economic increment within innovative companies. The G8 and G20 countries increasingly often invest huge amounts in national projects aimed at supporting the relevant spheres of innovation. For instance, in Russia over 1 billion rubles was invested in innovative projects by governmental funds in 2019. The race for breakthrough science-and-research technologies creates a global competitive background for presenting the best innovative products to the global science-and-research community. At the same time, it should be recognized that the innovative sectors of national economies, due to the peculiarities of the organization and activities thereof, objectively cannot take an isolated position in relation to international cooperation in general and international mobility of researchers in particular. This article gives a critical analysis of the institution of international mobility of researchers looking at the example of the French Republic, a traditional leader in the field of science, research, technology and innovation.
Features of international agreements concluded for the implementation of the projects of the “MegaScience” class
Authors: Moshkova D M , Karandaev I Y
Published: November 2020

The article presents aspects of the legal regulation of international scientific cooperation aimed at the creation and operation of unique scientific installations of the “MegaScience” class. On the example of scientific projects CERN, ITER, XFEL and JINR, the individual features of legal regulation are analyzed: the legal basis, the key provisions of the concluded international agreements, as well as the relationship with the legislation of the Russian Federation. On the basis of the analysis and generalization, the author identifies the features of legal regulation, which should be taken into account when creating future scientific projects of the “MegaScience” class.
Natural Beauty, Reflective Judgment and Kant’s Aesthetic Humanism
Authors: Savile Anthony
Published: November 2020

Kant’s concern for the universal validity of aesthetic judgment turns on its providing a needed bridge between our understanding of the world as governed by mechanical laws and our ability freely to realize our true humanity. That obliges us to find beauty in nature that is expressive of our ethical and moral values. It shapes the way we should understand aesthetic judgment itself.
The Aesthetic Concerns of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Treatment of Neck Wrinkles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Qiu He , Zhao Rui , Cao Lideng , Liu Shuo , Yu Donglei , Wang Hang
Published: November 2020

Background

The aged and unattractive appearance of the neck has a profound impact on the overall youthfulness and attractiveness of the face. Neck wrinkles are one of the manifestations of neck skin aging. Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) represents an effective means for aesthetic neck rejuvenation as novel facial rejuvenation technologies are progressively developed.

Objectives

The objective of this article was to review the pertinent clinical literature for descriptions of BTX-A treatments and evaluations of their efficacy and safety for neck wrinkles.

Methods

The Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS databases were searched from inception to April 30, 2020, for the existing literature, which is presented along with the authors’ experience with neck wrinkles.

Results

Overall, 112 women between 24 and 65 years of age were included in 3 studies of monotherapy and 2 studies of multimodal combination therapy. BTX-A has been reported in combination with other approaches, including intensity focused ultrasound, cohesive polydensified matrix hyaluronic acid, and microfocused ultrasound. Only 1 of the 3 reports on monotherapy had a less than 50% satisfaction and improvement rate. Overall, BTX-A attained high patient satisfaction without serious and persistent side effects, notwithstanding the relatively limited sample size.

Conclusions

The existing research cannot strongly prove the aesthetic effect of BTX-A in neck wrinkles. However, BTX-A is probably an effective technology in response to the growing demand for neck wrinkle treatment, whether in a single treatment or combined treatment.

Level of Evidence: 4
Rheology of Polymethylmethacrylate-Collagen Gel Filler: Physiochemical Properties and Clinical Applications
Authors: Lorenc Z Paul , Pilcher Brian , McArthur Tina , Patel Nimitt
Published: November 2020

Background

Soft tissue fillers are comprised of a range of materials with differing physiochemical and rheologic (ie, flow) properties. These properties can inform treatment selection for specific anatomic areas, planes of injection, and clinical applications.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterize the rheologic properties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-collagen gel for comparison with other available fillers.

Methods

Commercially available PMMA-collagen gel, hyaluronic acid (HA), and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers were obtained from their respective manufacturers. Measures of complex viscosity (η*) and elastic modulus (G′) for each filler were collected at 0.7 Hz in triplicate according to standard procedures on a rotational rheometer fitted with a 40-mm steel plate at 25°C on a Peltier plate (500-μm gap).

Results

The measured η* and G′ values for HA and CaHA fillers were in agreement with previously published data. The difference in η* between CaHA (mean [standard deviation], 358.9 [21.56] Pa-s) and PMMA-collagen gel (656.41 [68.03] Pa-s) was statistically significant (P < 0.0001), as was the difference between the G′ of CaHA (1424.8 [83.3] Pa) and the G′ of PMMA-collagen gel (2815.27 [304.07] Pa; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

PMMA-collagen gel exhibited the highest η* and G′ of all tested fillers. These properties likely underpin an increased capacity for lifting and support in areas where long-lasting revolumization is appropriate. In practice, PMMA-collagen gel is well suited for treatment of acne scars, as well as injection into the supraperiosteal plane in the temple, chin, mandible, and piriform by a retrograde linear threading technique. Additional clinical considerations are discussed.
Simple and Efficient Detection Approach of Quercetin from Biological Matrix by Novel Surface Imprinted Polymer Based Magnetic Halloysite Nanotubes Prepared by a Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Fizir Meriem , Dahiru Nasiru Sintali , Cui Yanru , Zhi Hao , Dramou Pierre , He Hua
Published: November 2020

Molecular imprinted polymers coated magnetic halloysite nanotubes (MHNTs-MIPs) were prepared through sol-gel method by using quercetin (Que), APTES and TEOS as template, monomer and cross-linker agent, respectively. The synthesized MHNTs-MIPs were characterized by fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, XRD and vibrating sample magnetometer. Various parameters influencing the binding capacity of the MHNTs-MIPs were investigated with the help of response surface methodology. Selectivity experiments showed that the MHNTs-MIPs exhibited the maximum selective rebinding to Que. Therefore, the MHNTs-MIPs was applied as a solid-phase extraction adsorbent for the extraction and preconcentration of quercetin and luteolin in serum and urine samples. The limits of detection for quercetin and luteolin range from 0.51 to 1.32 ng mL−1 in serum and from 0.23 to 1.05 ng mL−1 in urine, the recoveries are between 95.20 and 103.73% with the RSD less than 5.77%. While the recovery hardly decreased after several cycles. The designed MHNTs-MIP with high affinity, sensitivity and maximum selectivity toward Que in SPE might recommend a novel method for the extraction of flavonoids in other samples like natural products.
Insights into the biomarkers of viral encephalitis from clinical patients
Authors: Khushafa Thekra , jing Liu , Zhaojun Zeng , Jiameng Sun , haixia Zhu
Published: November 2020

Background: biomarkers can be helpful in identifying patients who may profit by explicit treatments or evaluating the reaction to the treatment of specific disease. Finding unique biomarkers in the process of disease could help clinicians in identifying serious disease in the early stage, so as to improve prognosis. Objective: these investigations, nonetheless, have made constrained progress. Numerous infections are known to cause intense viral encephalitis (VE) in people which can cause a variable level of meningeal just as parenchymal aggravation. Initial clinical manifestations in most encephalitis are nonspecific, resembling a viral-like illness. However, with disease progression, symptoms can become quite severe and fatal, including prominent cranial hypertension, cognitive problems, cerebral hernia and respiratory failure. Forwards: the clinical and research center discoveries in huge numbers of those viral issues are to a great extent comparable and in this way increasingly explicit biomarkers for indicative and prognostic intentions are justified. These biomarkers are progressively significant in the acknowledgment and treatment of the viral central nervous system (CNS) issue. Conclusion: Clinical manifestations have been the indicative approaches for analysis of viral encephalitis. Lots of studies have been endeavored to distinguish progressively objective laboratory-based quantitative CSF biomarkers for VE.
Spousal Educational Attainment and Sleep Duration Among American Older Adults
Authors: Sheehan Connor , Iida Masumi
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Sleep has consistently been shown to have a dyadic nature among married older adults; however, less is known about the influence of a spouses’ social characteristics on one’s own sleep. Focusing on older adults, we examined the association between one’s spouses’ educational attainment and one’s own sleep duration.

Method

We used the 2004–2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) to analyze heterosexual married adults aged 50–84 (N = 89,180). Respondents reported typical sleep duration in a 24-hr period, which was categorized as short (≤6 hr), normal (7–8 hr), or long (≥9 hr). We fit multinomial logistic regression models predicting these categories of sleep duration and accounted for demographic, household socioeconomic characteristics, and health/health behaviors. Using interaction terms, we tested if the association varied by the respondent’s gender and educational attainment.

Results

Older adults married to spouses with college or more education had significantly lower relative risk of short sleep than those whose spouses had some college, high school, or less than high school education, net of the covariates including their own education. The benefit of higher levels of spousal education was significantly more protective against short sleep for women and more highly educated older adults.

Discussion

Older adults married to spouses with high levels of education reported more favorable sleep durations, but this benefit was significantly stronger for women and the highly educated which has important implications for their aging. These findings suggest that social inequality may condition the dyadic nature of sleep for heterosexual married older adults.
Mathematical evaluation of sloped solar chimney power plant for power generation in different regions of Nepal
Authors: Baral Suresh
Published: November 2020

Sloped solar chimney power plant (SSCPP) could be one of the appropriate technologies for powering Nepalese communities. The main components of the plant are chimney, collector and power-generating unit. In this study, the mathematical evaluation of the SSCPP has been conducted for the estimation of the power generation in Nepalese context. For the analysis, the mathematical models have been developed from the governing equations. The parameters such as chimney height and radius, collector radius, ambient temperature and solar insolation have been taken as inputs for simulation of the overall system. The output parameters such as overall system efficiency, chimney efficiency, air velocity, power output from the turbine and electrical power from the proposed system have been evaluated. The results showed that power developed by air, turbine power and electrical power is 120, 66 and 44 kW, respectively. The developed power is estimated when the height and the radius of the chimney were 190 and 5 m, respectively. It is seen that ambient temperature and velocity of air also play an important role in the power generation. The performance influencing the power output based on turbine pressure ratio, thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of soil and the mass flow rate have also been estimated. Besides, the solar insolation data were taken for five different regions of Nepal to find the power generation and collector efficiency.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Placental Infection and Inflammation Leading to Fetal Distress and Neonatal Multi-Organ Failure in an Asymptomatic Woman
Authors: Schoenmakers Sam , Snijder Pauline , Verdijk Robert M , Kuiken Thijs , Kamphuis Sylvia S M , Koopman Laurens P , Krasemann Thomas B , Rousian Melek , Broekhuizen Michelle , Steegers Eric A P , Koopmans Marion P G , Fraaij Pieter L A , Reiss Irwin K M
Published: November 2020

Background

In general, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during pregnancy is not considered to be an increased risk for severe maternal outcomes but has been associated with an increased risk for fetal distress. Maternal-fetal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was initially deemed uncertain; however, recently a few cases of vertical transmission have been reported. The intrauterine mechanisms, besides direct vertical transmission, leading to the perinatal adverse outcomes are not well understood.

Methods

Multiple maternal, placental, and neonatal swabs were collected for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Serology of immunoglobulins against SARS-CoV-2 was tested in maternal, umbilical cord, and neonatal blood. Placental examination included immunohistochemical investigation against SARS-CoV-2 antigen expression, with SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) in situ hybridization and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

RT-qPCRs of the oropharynx, maternal blood, vagina, placenta, and urine were all positive over a period of 6 days, while breast milk, feces, and all neonatal samples tested negative. Placental findings showed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 particles with generalized inflammation characterized by histiocytic intervillositis with diffuse perivillous fibrin depositions with damage to the syncytiotrophoblasts.

Conclusions

Placental infection by SARS-CoV-2 leads to fibrin depositions hampering fetal-maternal gas exchange with resulting fetal distress necessitating a premature emergency cesarean section. Postpartum, the neonate showed a fetal or pediatric inflammatory multisystem-like syndrome with coronary artery ectasia temporarily associated with SARS-CoV-2 for which admittance and care on the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were required, despite being negative for SARS-CoV-2. This highlights the need for awareness of adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes during the current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, especially considering that the majority of pregnant women appear asymptomatic.
Use of selective PGE2 receptor antagonists on human endometriotic stromal cells and peritoneal macrophages
Authors: Makabe Tomoko , Koga Kaori , Nagabukuro Hiroshi , Asada Mari , Satake Erina , Taguchi Ayumi , Takeuchi Arisa , Miyashita Mariko , Harada Miyuki , Hirata Tetsuya , Hirota Yasushi , Wada-Hiraike Osamu , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: November 2020

Non-hormonal therapeutic strategies for endometriosis are needed. The aim of this study was to characterize the effects of prostaglandin (PG)E2 receptor inhibitors to explore their potential as novel therapeutic strategies for endometriosis. The expression of PGE2 receptors (EP2 and EP4) in donated tissues from human ovarian endometriosis, adenomyosis and peritoneal endometriosis was examined using immunohistochemistry. Human endometriotic stromal cells (ESC) isolated from ovarian endometriotic tissue and peritoneal macrophages were treated with EP2 and EP4 antagonists. cAMP accumulation and the effect of EP antagonists were measured using cAMP assays. DNA synthesis in ESC was detected using bromodeoxyuridine incorporation analysis. Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 protein levels in ESC supernatants were measured using ELISAs. mRNA expression level for aromatase by ESC, and selected cytokines by peritoneal macrophages was measured using RT–PCR. EP2 and EP4 receptors were expressed in cells derived from control and diseased tissue, ovarian endometriotic, adenomyotic and peritoneal lesions. A selective EP2 antagonist reduced DNA synthesis, cAMP accumulation and IL-1β-induced proinflammatory cytokine secretion and aromatase expression. A selective EP4 antagonist negated IL-1β-induced IL-6 secretion and aromatase expression. In peritoneal macrophages, EP expression was elevated in endometriosis samples but the EP4 antagonist reduced cAMP levels and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, chemokine ligand 2 and chemokine ligand 3 mRNA. EP2 and EP4 are functioning in endometriosis lesions and peritoneal macrophages, and their selective antagonists can reduce EP-mediated actions, therefore, the EP antagonists are potential therapeutic agents for controlling endometriosis.
Virulence Structure of Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae and Effectiveness of Pc Resistance Genes in Poland During 2017–2019
Authors: Sowa Sylwia , Paczos-Grzęda Edyta
Published: November 2020

Crown rust caused by Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae is one of the most destructive diseases of oat, regularly occurring worldwide and leading to significant yield losses. This article characterizes the pathotype structure of P. coronata in Poland and evaluates the potential of crown rust race-specific resistance genes for use in practical breeding conditions in this region. A total of 466 isolates were derived from four locations of intensive oat breeding in Poland in 2017 to 2019, representing P. coronata populations from West, East, South, and Central Poland. Their virulence structure was determined on 35 Pc differential lines in laboratory conditions. In each year and location, high pathotype diversity was observed. In total, 347 (75%) pathotypes were detected. On average P. coronata isolates collected in 2017 and 2018 were virulent to 11% of the oat differentials. In 2019 isolates from East and South of Poland were able to overcome 18.3 and 18.5% of the oat differentials, respectively. There was no isolate virulent against Pc51, Pc52, and Pc91 crown rust resistance genes. P. coronata isolates displayed modest virulence levels, high diversity, and no prevailing pathotype. The information provided here may be helpful for development of resistance breeding strategies and in choosing the most effective major genes for pyramiding into cultivars.
Marjolin Ulcer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Khan Kamran , Schafer Charles , Wood Jeyhan
Published: November 2020

This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of Marjolin ulcer (MU) to assist clinicians in understanding the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of MU. Marjolin ulcer presents with clear signs and symptoms of malignant degeneration in chronic wounds. It can be prevented by raising awareness and educating wound care providers appropriately about its signs and symptoms.

GENERAL PURPOSE

To provide a comprehensive review of Marjolin ulcer (MU) to assist clinicians in understanding the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of MU.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES

After participating in this educational activity, the participant will:

1. Describe the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of MU.

2. Summarize the diagnostic and treatment approaches for patients who have an MU.
Scarring at Donor Sites after Split-Thickness Skin Graft: A Prospective, Longitudinal, Randomized Trial
Authors: Karlsson Matilda , Elmasry Moustafa , Steinvall Ingrid , Sjöberg Folke , Olofsson Pia
Published: November 2020

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if previous findings on the association between dressing treatments and subjective opinion on final donor site scar outcome using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) can be confirmed objectively. The previous study showed that patients dressed with hydrofiber covered with film were more satisfied with their donor site scars than patients receiving porcine xenograft or polyurethane foam dressings.

METHODS

Scar outcome measurements were assessed by a blinded observer using POSAS and the Cutometer dual MPA 580 device to measure the viscoelasticity of skin.

RESULTS

A total of 17 participants were included in this study, five of whom were treated with hydrofiber, six with polyurethane foam, and another six with porcine xenograft. There were no significant differences among groups in any of the POSAS items or in the viscoelasticity measurements made with the Cutometer.

CONCLUSIONS

The investigators could not confirm previous associations between dressing treatment and long-term donor site scars. No associations between donor sites’ healing times and final scarring were found. Hypopigmentation was reported in 15 of 17 donor sites evaluated.