bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical review of methods for decontaminating filtering facepiece respirators
Authors: Jacobs Neva , Chan Kathy , Leso Veruscka , D’Anna Andrea , Hollins Dana , Iavicoli Ivo
Published: October 2020

Various decontamination methods that may be used to extend respirator inventories have been examined for over a decade. In light of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, many health-care settings are now implementing these techniques amid respirator shortages. We sought to perform a critical review of the available literature regarding decontamination methods to determine which strategies are effective at inactivating the target organism, preserve performance (filter efficiency and fit) of the respirator, leave no residual toxicity from the treatment, and are fast-acting, inexpensive, and readily available. We also identified areas for future research. We found that ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is the most widely studied method, and treatments are effective at inactivating SARS-CoV-2 without diminishing filtration efficiency or fit. These treatments were found to leave no residual toxicity for the wearer, have a relatively short cycle time of less than 1 h, and existing systems can likely be retrofitted to accommodate this method. Further, UVGI (among other treatment methods) has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and respirator manufacturers. Methods involving microwave-generated steam also show potential in that they are likely effective against SARS-CoV-2, preserve performance, have no residual toxicity, require a short duration treatment cycle (often less than 10 min), and microwave ovens are inexpensive and readily available. Steam methods are currently recommended by the CDC, OSHA, and manufacturers. These respirator decontamination methods are likely also useful against other viruses or pathogens.
Serving two masters? Shared corporate leadership and conflict of interest
Authors: Campbell David
Published: October 2020

In order to reduce costs and inefficiencies, break down silos, and create smoother transitions of care, health organizations are starting to share senior leadership roles with their regional partners. While these are laudable goals, having individuals share responsibilities among two or more organizations can pose significant ethical challenges such as divided loyalties and create a conflict of interest. The risks of conflict of interest among senior health leaders who share roles within multiple health organizations have largely been ignored. This article will explore the ethical challenges of this issue and offer suggestions on how senior health leaders who are put in this uncomfortable position can identify and respond to a potential conflict of interest.
General and Intensive Care Outcomes for Hospitalized Patients With Solid Organ Transplants With COVID-19
Authors: Mastroianni Fiore , Leisman Daniel E. , Fisler Grace , Narasimhan Mangala
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

COVID-19 has been associated with a dysregulated inflammatory response. Patients who have received solid-organ transplants are more susceptible to infections in general due to the use of immunosuppressants. We investigated factors associated with mechanical ventilation and outcomes in solid-organ transplant recipients with COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all solid-organ transplant recipients admitted with a diagnosis of COVID-19 in our 23-hospital health system over a 1-month period. Descriptive statistics were used to describe hospital course and laboratory results and bivariate comparisons were performed on variables to determine differences.

Results:

Twenty-two patients with solid-organ transplants and COVID-19 were identified. Eight patients were admitted to the ICU, of which 7 were intubated. Admission values of CRP (p = 0.045) and N/L ratio (p = 0.047) were associated with the need for mechanical ventilation. Seven patients (32%) died during admission, including 86% (n = 6) of patients who received mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions:

In solid-organ transplant recipients with COVID-19, initial CRP and N/L ratio were associated with need for mechanical ventilation.
Hunter-gatherer adaptions during the Early Holocene in Northern Sweden
Authors: Ekholm Therese
Published: October 2020

This paper deals with the study of the ecology of early Holocene, 9000-4000 cal BC, specifically human and faunal dispersal into the Norrland and Dalarna areas of northern Sweden. It has been hypothesised that this region of Sweden was settled by hunter-gatherer groups of Butovo/Veretye ancestry moving in from the eastern taiga zone and at the same time groups from the West Scandinavian coast were moving north following the melting Weichselian ice sheet. Due to the speed of the melting ice these two groups must have encountered each other in the central part of northern Sweden. This article discusses the environment of these two separate groups and the possible consequences of their encounter, informed by results from the zooarchaeological analysis of burnt, radiocarbon dated bones from sites spanning much of Norrland and Dalarna. A compilation of previously dated sites are presented, and also new 14C dates from excavated sites. The northern population preferred to hunt forest game and held on to it for a long time even if sea mammals were available. The southern population, on the other hand, hunted sea mammals and forest game through the whole period.
Acupuncture for metabolic syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Xue , Jia Hong-Xiao , Yin Dong-Qing , Zhang Zhang-Jin
Published: October 2020

Background:

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of conditions associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. Acupuncture may have benefits in the treatment of MetS. This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture therapy in the treatment of MetS.

Methods:

Large-sample randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture treatment for MetS were extracted from multiple Chinese and English databases and analyzed using meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy/effectiveness of acupuncture with respect to various MetS indices in comparison with control treatments including conventional medications (CMs) and lifestyle intervention (LI), together and separately.

Results:

A total of 13 RCTs were identified with 423 subjects undergoing acupuncture regimens and 411 receiving control interventions. Active acupuncture yielded better outcomes than sham acupuncture with respect to improving multiple MetS indices. Acupuncture monotherapy had similar effectiveness in controlling triglyceride levels and high-density lipoprotein levels compared to CMs. The overall effects of adjunctive acupuncture were markedly greater than those of controls (CMs + LI, CMs, and LI) with respect to waist circumference with a mean difference of −5.11 cm (Z = 4.57, p < 0.001) and body mass index with a mean difference of −2.54 (Z = 5.38, p <0.001), and improvements were observed in most hyperlipidemia indices and fasting blood glucose. An evidence-based acupuncture regimen was identified as a future treatment strategy for MetS.

Conclusion:

Acupuncture is beneficial in the treatment of MetS and could serve as an alternative therapy for MetS-associated conditions. Larger-scale RCTs are needed to confirm the efficacy/effectiveness of our recommended evidence-based acupuncture regimen in MetS.
Carbohydrate 3′-sialyllactose as a novel target for theranostics in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Higashi Kiyoshi , Maeda Keiko , Miyata Kaori , Yoshimura Saori , Yamada Keita , Konno Daijiro , Tachibana Taro , Saito Koichi
Published: October 2020

We previously demonstrated that the carbohydrate 3′-sialyllactose is overexpressed in cancer stem-like cells such as metastatic pancreatic and poorly differentiated gastric cancer cells, and undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells. In this study, we investigated the possibility of 3′-sialyllactose as a target for theranostics in cancers using a recombinant mouse monoclonal antibody r3B1E2 that binds to 3′-sialyllactose. Immunohistochemistry analysis confirmed an elevated expression of 3′-sialyllactose in tumors of pancreas, stomach, and testis, while no expression of 3′-sialyllactose was observed in corresponding normal controls. In addition, a stage-independent expression of 3′-sialyllactose was observed, especially in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The level of serum 3′-sialyllactose in PDAC subjects was significantly higher than that in healthy controls, providing excellent AUC of 0.88. We next explored the therapeutic potential of r3B1E2 for PDAC in vitro. Treatment of r3B1E2 with 3′-sialyllactose-bearing human PDAC cells exhibited a complement-dependent cytotoxicity, whereas no significant activity of r3B1E2 against 3′-sialyllactose-negative cells was observed. Collectively, these findings raise the possibility of 3′-sialyllactose as a novel target for theranostics in PDAC.
Faculty International Engagement: Examining Rationales, Strategies, and Barriers in Institutional Settings
Authors: Calikoglu Alper , Lee Jenny J. , Arslan Hasan
Published: October 2020

The dramatic expansion of the international dimension in higher education has incited broadened and diverse interpretations of internationalization. As faculty members are integral in achieving many expected higher education goals, understanding their perspectives on the internationalization process is critical. Administrative leaders also play a vital role in influencing the conditions of internationalization and working alongside the faculty. Addressing the rationales, strategies, and barriers encountered, our study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of faculty internationalization. Employing a phenomenological design, we interviewed 22 participants, including central administrators of two public research universities and both faculty and administrative leaders of these universities’ colleges of education. Revealing diverse rationales, strategies, and barriers, our findings confirm faculty’s initiator and maintainer roles in operationalizing internationalization. Our study also corroborates the need for sustainable mechanisms and a consensus between faculty perspectives and institutional priorities. Recommendations are made to improve faculty engagement in internationalization.
WHO Knew. How the World Health Organization (WHO) Became a Dangerous Interloper on Workplace Health and Safety and COVID-19
Authors: O’Neill Rory
Published: October 2020

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) workplace health and safety guidelines on COVID-19 are unacceptably complacent in parts, patently dangerous in others, and contain serious gaps. Omissions include no mention of the essential role of labor inspection and enforcement, and a lack of recognition of potential interactions with other workplace hazards. WHO also omitted discussion of the necessity for wider employment protections to make safety and safe behavior a realistic prospect. Potential risks in outdoor work and the need to address the impact of job segregation related to inequalities in health outcomes are also absent. WHO’s advice influences national practice, official guidance, and binding rules.The International Trade Union Confederation has assessed the flaws in WHO’s arguments and has prepared a critique so they are understood and can be challenged.
A survey of concurrency-oriented refactoring
Authors: Zhang Yang , Li Liuxu , Zhang Dongwen
Published: October 2020

Refactoring has become an effective approach to convert sequential programs into concurrent programs. Many refactoring algorithms and tools are proposed to assist developers in writing high-performance concurrent programs. Although researchers actively conduct surveys on refactoring, we are not aware of any survey that summarizes, categorizes and discusses concurrency-oriented refactoring. To this end, this paper presents a survey that investigates how refactoring assists with concurrent programming. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first survey that summarizes the state-of-the-art, concurrency-oriented refactoring. First, we design six research questions addressing the concurrent structure, programming language, performance improvement and consistency evaluation. Second, we answer these questions by examining the related papers and then present the results to show how refactoring provides support for concurrent programming after a decade of development, such as transforming the concurrent structures, supporting parallel language, and improving performance. Finally, we summarize the related works and present the future trends.
Circular RNAs in the Brain: A Possible Role in Memory?
Authors: Zajaczkowski Esmi L. , Bredy Timothy W.
Published: October 2020

Higher-order organisms possess information processing capabilities that are only made possible by their biological complexity. Emerging evidence indicates a critical role for regulatory RNAs in coordinating many aspects of cellular function that are directly involved in experience-dependent neural plasticity. Here, we focus on a structurally distinct class of RNAs known as circular RNAs. These closed loop, single-stranded RNA molecules are highly stable, enriched in the brain, and functionally active in both healthy and disease conditions. Current evidence implicating this ancient class of RNA as a contributor toward higher-order functions such as cognition and memory is discussed.
Effects of cold plasma treatment on cherry quality during storage
Authors: Wu Xinru , Zhao Wuqi , Zeng Xiangyuan , Zhang Qing-An , Gao Guitian , Song Shujie
Published: October 2020

Cherry samples were treated with cold plasma under different voltages (40, 60, 80 kV) and different treatment durations (60, 80, 100, 140 s), then stored in a refrigerator at 0 ℃. Data on the decay rate, respiration rate, and physiological properties of the cherries and their correlational relationships after different treatments of cold plasma were collected under the conditions of ambient temperature and dry air. The decay rate, respiration rate, total soluble solids, total phenol, flavonoids, anthocyanin, VC, titratable acidity, firmness, and a* value were investigated at regular intervals to analyze the quality of the cherries under different treatment conditions. Additionally, the total colony number was estimated at the end of storage. The results indicated that cold plasma treatment under moderate conditions was effective for prolonging cherry storage, inactivating microorganisms, decreasing the decay rate, and inhibiting respiration with either no compromise on the cherry quality or only a slightly noticeable influence. A significant positive correlation was found between the decay rate and respiration rate, as well as between the VC content and titratable acidity. Antioxidant contents and firmness were found to be negatively correlated with the a* value. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that cold plasma has potential applications in the storage and preservation of cherries.
Silence is not Golden: Motivating Employee Voice through Inclusive Leadership
Authors: Jolly Phillip M. , Lee Lindsey
Published: October 2020

Given the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry, firms must continuously improve to remain viable. Many innovations and improvements in service are driven by the experiences of employees on the front lines of service delivery, who have direct knowledge of what works and what does not in the day-to-day operation of a hospitality business. Unfortunately, research indicates that employees are not likely to speak up with opinions, ideas, and suggestions, behavior known as employee voice, unless they have some motivation to do so. Drawing on basic need satisfaction theory, we hypothesized and found that inclusive leader behaviors are associated with the satisfaction of followers’ basic needs for relatedness and competence. In turn, the satisfaction of these basic needs was associated with increases in employee self-reported voice behavior. Our findings provide important insights into the kinds of leader behaviors that may drive employee voice.
The Dilemma of Saudi Arabian Homes in Riyadh
Authors: Giddings Bob , Almehrej Majid , Cresciani Manuel
Published: October 2020

The courtyard form of the traditional Arab house responded to both climate and the culture of its inhabitants. Islamic values, as well as socioeconomic factors, played crucial roles in the design. However, the mid-20th century marked the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s first rapid economic growth as a result of the discovery of oil; which dramatically increased the wealth and prosperity of the population, and resulted in new lifestyles. This period witnessed the introduction of the grid layout street pattern and the detached villa house. This type became the prevalent style in Saudi Arabia, the central province, and Riyadh in particular. While the traditional courtyard house more than satisfied cultural needs, increasingly it was viewed inappropriate for affluent 21st-century lifestyles. Yet this research confirmed that the villa style is creating fundamental problems for Saudi families. The theoretical framework is set in sustainability theory, and investigates the principles of home through human needs, place, and house. The methodology uses a survey strategy with questionnaires, interviews, and building analysis to determine which aspects of home are satisfied by each type. The dilemma is that Saudi families will not return to the courtyard type because it does not meet important requirements of status; whereas the villa type does not meet significant criteria such as privacy. The context is increasing climatic temperatures, which are making both types increasingly uncomfortable. This study highlights the need for a specific contemporary home style that would satisfy 21st-century aspirations, respect Islamic culture, and respond to changing climate.
A different way of looking at things: The role of social science film in organisation studies
Authors: Miko-Schefzig Katharina , Learmonth Mark , McMurray Robert
Published: October 2020

Despite growing interest in the use of moving images for representing management and organisation research, films are still widely considered as an addendum to the ‘proper’ textual work of the social sciences. Drawing on our own experience in social science film production, we consider the unique epistemological opportunities afforded by the production of moving images as compared to other methods rooted in the primacy of text. We discuss the techniques of eliciting and editing (by presenting actual editing decisions in detail) as a visual method for organisation studies and its theoretical and methodological implications. We demonstrate the ways in which the act of filming facilitates the production of contextually sensitive life accounts that place participants and viewers in the picture. The main contribution of the paper lies in its explanation of the ways in which film represents epistemic knowledge in itself – a particular way of seeing and relating – without recourse to written material. This includes the potential for film to elicit understanding that could not be accessed or represented in any other way. While not minimising the challenges involved in the production and assessment of social science films, we argue that such films warrant a status similar to that of the journal article.
Tribological behaviour of hypereutectic Al-Si automotive cylinder liner material under dry sliding wear condition in severe wear regime
Authors: Baby Ajith Kurian , Priyaranjan M , Deepak Lawrence K , Rajendrakumar PK
Published: October 2020

Hypereutectic Al-Si alloys are used as material for the engine block and cylinder liners in automobiles. Wear behaviour of hypereutectic Al-Si alloy system changes significantly with applied normal load in both mild wear and severe wear regime. Significant improvement in wear resistance can be obtained by exposing silicon particles through the chemical etching process. For Al-25% Si alloys, most studies are reported in mild and ultra-mild wear regime. In the present work, the wear of exposed silicon particles with varying load and speed in severe wear regime was investigated under the unidirectional sliding condition and bi-directional sliding condition using a pin-on-disk tribometer (POD) and a linear reciprocating tribometer (LRT), respectively. Rapidly solidified and T6 heat-treated Al-25Si alloy was polished and etched using 5% NaOH solution to expose the silicon particles. Experiments were carried out with normal loads varying from 40 N to 120 N in dry sliding conditions. Sliding speeds of 0.8 m/s and 1.5 m/s were applied for each load in case of a pin on disk tribometer whereas, in an LRT, the sliding velocities were 0.2 m/s and 0.45 m/s respectively for each set of the load. The surface topography was measured by means of a 3-D optical profilometer, and surface morphology was analyzed using SEM images. It was observed that at higher loads, larger Si particles were fractured and pushed into the matrix. Fractured silicon particles, along with smaller particles, were embedded into the matrix, thereby increasing the silicon concentration in the wear region. The comparison of the experimental results of unidirectional and bi-directional sliding that reveal the change in surface morphology of silicon particles, the friction characteristics at the interface, variation of surface 3-D roughness parameters, the wear rate and wear mechanisms of Al-25% Si alloys are analyzed and reported in the study.
The Reintegration Academy for parolees
Authors: Reese Renford
Published: October 2020

The Reintegration Academy was founded in 2009. It was the first program of its kind in the United States to bring a group of parolees to a college campus for an extended period for academic programming. Since its inception, the Reintegration Academy has collaborated with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Division of Adult Parole Operations to host nine cohorts and served 251 parolees. Division of Adult Parole Operations assists in recruiting, screening, and giving participants referrals to the program. The program immerses 35 participants in Academic Orientation, Life Skills, and Career Development modules for eight weeks. The Reintegration Academy has an 85% success rate of enrolling participants in college and/or placing them in gainful employment. This article is a reflective essay that concisely discusses the genesis of the program, integrates a review of literature on the challenges in re-entry, the program’s anatomy, and the outcomes of the program.
Circulating Tumor Cells Counting Act as a Potential Prognostic Factor in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Du Kunpeng , Huang Qian , Bu Junguo , Zhou Jieling , Huang Zijian , Li Jiqiang
Published: October 2020

Background:

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) hold huge potential for both clinical applications and basic research into the management of cancer, but the relationship between CTC count and cervical cancer prognosis remains unclear. Therefore, research on this topic is urgently required.

Objective:

This study investigated whether CTCs were detectable in patients with cervical cancer and whether CTC count was an indicator of prognosis.

Methods:

We enrolled 107 patients with pathologically confirmed cervical cancer. CTCs were detected after radiotherapy or concurrent cisplatin-containing chemotherapy in all patients. We evaluated all medical records and imaging data as well as follow-up information to calculate progression-free survival (PFS). PFS was defined as the time until first diagnosis of tumor progression or death. We also analyzed the relationship between CTC count and patient age, disease stage, histological differentiation, tumor size, and pathological type.

Results:

CTCs were identified in 86 of 107 patients (80%), and the CTC count ranged from 0 to 27 cells in 3.2 mL blood. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 43.1 months. Patients in which CTCs were detected had a significantly shorter PFS than CTC-negative patients (P = 0.018). Multivariate analysis indicated that CTC count was an independent negative prognostic factor for survival. However, no correlation was observed between CTC count and patient age, disease stage, histological differentiation, tumor size, and pathological type.

Conclusion:

CTC count is an independent negative prognostic factor for cervical cancer.
Kinesin Family Member C1 (KIFC1) Accelerates Proliferation and Invasion of Endometrial Cancer Cells Through Modulating the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhou Kening , Zhao Jian , Qi Lifang , He Yingying , Xu Jingui , Dai Mimi
Published: October 2020

Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. Kinesin family member C1 (KIFC1) has been demonstrated to play crucial roles in various tumors. However, the function of KIFC1 in EC remains to be revealed. In this study, upregulation of KIFC1 expression in human EC tissues was found from analysis on data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and positively correlated with short survival outcome of EC patients. In addition, the mRNA and protein levels of KIFC1 were confirmed to be up-regulated in EC cells (Ishikawa, HEC-1B, HEC-1A and KLE) compared to human normal endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) by quantitative real time PCR and western blot. In vitro functional experiments showed that overexpression of KIFC1 promoted proliferation, migration and invasion of EC cells, while KIFC1 depletion showed the opposite results. Moreover, KIFC1 knockdown suppressed tumor growth in mice. Further mechanism analysis showed that KIFC1 participated in the regulation of EC progression through regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Collectively, KIFC1 promoted proliferation and invasion through modulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in EC, implying that KIFC1 might provide a promising therapeutic target for the therapy of EC.
Thoracic Aortic Mural Thrombus, Right Ventricular Clot and Pulmonary Embolism in a Patient With COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Masana Marc , Martinez Lucia I. , Gil Miquel , Bueno Gonzalo , Llagostera Secundino
Published: October 2020

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing evidence suggests that infected patients present a high incidence of thrombotic complications. We report a 67-year-old-woman admitted for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Chest CT images showed bilateral ground glass opacities, bilateral pulmonary embolism, right ventricular clot in transit and 2 thoracic aortic mural thrombus. Therapy was initiated with subcutaneous low-molecular-weight heparin, and the patient was discharged at 20 days asymptomatic. Complete resolution of the aortic thrombus was observed in a 1-month surveillance CT angiogram. Our case illustrates vascular complications in a COVID-19 patient and its effective treatment with anticoagulation.
Engineering resilient systems cloud computing architecture (ECCA): a collaborative and secure analysis framework
Authors: Blakley Collin T , Li Letitia W , Eakman Greg , Baker Brent C
Published: October 2020

Design and tradespace analysis of increasingly complex systems often require proprietary models from multiple industrial sources. These multi-partner collaborations require assurances that each company’s intellectual property will remain protected from unauthorized access or disclosure to competitors. In this paper, we present the security risks and considerations for these collaborations, and propose a cloud-based framework to address these concerns. The Engineering Resilient Systems (ERS) Cloud Computing Architecture (ECCA) system enables secure collaboration in the Department of Defense community, providing an infrastructure restricting access to connectable containerized assets: models and simulations, each of which remain isolated and maintained on the owner’s own cloud. ECCA further prevents unauthorized access to sensitive assets and infection by malicious media with an access control system supported by secure gRPC messaging and access agreements. We demonstrate the capability to connect disparate models for a simplified combat simulation and then how the new multi-model scenario enables additional capabilities in tradespace analysis.
A Swiftly Changing Tide: Fantasy Sport, Gambling, and Alternative Forms of Participation
Authors: Ruihley Brody J. , Billings Andrew C. , Buzzelli Nick
Published: October 2020

The fantasy sport industry has seen tremendous changes in the past five years, thanks in large part to increased participation, media acceptance, easing of legal pressure, and the proliferation of daily fantasy sport. Similarly, sports gambling recently moved further into the spotlight with a 2018 U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down a 1992 law allowing Nevada to be the only state to legally house sports betting. Having once been advised to steer clear of each other, gambling and fantasy sport interests are now becoming increasingly intertwined. Utilizing quantitative data from a national survey of 519 fantasy sport participants, this study explores attitudes of and participation in alternative forms of fantasy sport and sports betting. Insights can be gleaned regarding familiarity in the activities, reluctance in participation, sport consumption, future participation, and connection points between fantasy sport and sports gambling cultures.
Changes in the experience of time: The impact of spatial information on the perception and memory of duration
Authors: Fenerci Can , da Silva Castanheira Kevin , LoParco Myles , Sheldon Signy
Published: October 2020

Although it is understood that our experience of time is fluid and subjective, the cognitive mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are not well described. Based on event segmentation theory, we tested the hypothesis that changes in the context, particularly the spatial context, of an experience impact how an individual perceives (encodes) and remembers the length of that event. A group of participants viewed short videos of scenes from movies that either contained shifts in spatial context (e.g., characters moving through doorways) or did not contain any shifts in spatial context. In one task, participants estimated a randomly selected time duration (between 10 and 23 s) when encoding these videos. In a second task, the same participants estimated the duration of the videos after viewing them. We found that even though the presence of spatial shifts impacted how time was perceived, the nature of this effect differed as a function of task. Specifically, when time was estimated at encoding, these estimates were longer for videos that did not contain spatial shifts compared with those with spatial shifts. However, when these estimates were made at retrieval, durations were reported as longer for videos with spatial context shifts than those without. A second experiment replicated these main findings in a new sample. We interpret these results as providing new evidence for theories on how context changes, particularly those in spatial information, distort the experience of time differently during the encoding and retrieval phases of memory.
Distinguishing left from right: A large-scale investigation of left–right confusion in healthy individuals
Authors: van der Ham Ineke JM , Dijkerman H Chris , van Stralen Haike E
Published: October 2020

The ability to distinguish left from right has been shown to vary substantially within healthy individuals, yet its characteristics and mechanisms are poorly understood. In three experiments, we focused on a detailed description of the ability to distinguish left from right and the role of individual differences, and further explored the potential underlying mechanisms. In Experiment 1, a questionnaire concerning self-reported left–right identification (LRI) and strategy use was administered. Objective assessment was used in Experiment 2 by means of vocal responses to line drawings of a figure, with the participants’ hands in a spatially neutral position. In Experiment 3, the arm positions and visibility of the hands were manipulated to assess whether bodily posture influences left–right decisions. Results indicate that 14.6% of the general population reported insufficient LRI and that 42.9% of individuals use a hand-related strategy. Furthermore, we found that spatial alignment of the participants’ arms with the stimuli increased performance, in particular with a hand-related strategy and females. Performance was affected only by the layout of the stimuli, not by the position of the participant during the experiment. Taken together, confusion about left and right occurs within healthy population to a limited extent, and a hand-related strategy affects LRI. Moreover, the process involved appears to make use of a stored body representation and not bottom-up sensory input. Therefore, we suggest a top-down body representation is the key mechanism in determining left and right, even when this is not explicitly part of the task.
Critical Analysis of a Challenging Case of Post-Infectious N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Epstein Samantha , Ankam Jyoti , Vargas Wendy S. , Thakur Kiran T.
Published: October 2020

Infections are increasingly recognized as a common trigger of autoimmune disease, including autoimmune encephalitis. A significant association is particularly shown between HSV-1 encephalitis (HSVE) and a post-infectious autoimmune encephalitis mediated by neuronal autoantibodies, most notably anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibodies. The clinical significance of these and other novel post-infectious autoantibodies has led to new diagnostic and treatment challenges for clinicians. Here we present a case of a 19-year-old female with premorbid psychiatric disease and neuropsychiatric sequelae from HSVE who presented over a year after her initial HSVE with behavioral changes and positive anti-NMDAR antibodies. The clinical challenges encountered during this case are explored in detail based on a review of the literature. Research is needed to help guide management in these complex clinical situations.
The effects of morin on bone regeneration to accelerate healing in bone defects in mice
Authors: Wan Jun , Ma Tao , Jin Yun , Qiu Shaodong
Published: October 2020

Restoring bone defects are the major challenge facing clinical trial therapy, particularly skull related problems. Morin, a naturally occurring compound, has pro-osteogenesis. This research focuses on assessing the role of morin for its pro-osteogenesis activities. We utilized in vivo and in vitro models to investigate the molecular-level mechanisms of morin’s osteoblastic biological activity. The effectiveness of morin on pro-osteogenesis (100 mg/kg/day) was assessed by monitoring modifications in the bone histomorphometry score, the development of immature osteoblasts from mesenchymal stems cells and improvements in the expression of pro-osteogenic cytokines in skull defected (SD) mice. Quantitative—PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence were studied to investigate the signaling pathways. Morin has a substantial in vivo pro-osteogenesis effect which can facilitate the development of osteoblasts, the production of osteoblast related marker genes, and in vitro protein markers for osteoblasts. From a molecular biology standpoint, morin contributes to the development of osteoblasts and stimulation of the Wnt pathway with the activation and translocation of β-catenin nuclei. Our findings from the study revealed that morin may be a beneficial substitute for helping regenerate bone defects.
MIF associated with pulmonary hypertension susceptibility and severity in non-dialysis Chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Wu Jianhua , Guo Naifeng , Chen Xiaolan
Published: October 2020

Pulmonary hypertension (PAH) is one of the more serious complications of Chronic kidney disease (CKD), and its exact pathogenesis has not been clarified. As an upstream proinflammatory factor, macrophage migration inhibitor (MIF) is involved in the occurrence and development of many diseases. This study aimed to detect the relationship between serum MIF and PAH in non-dialysis CKD patients. A total of 382 non-dialysis CKD patients were enrolled in this study. Bio-Plex cytokine assay was used to detect MIF. CKD patients were divided into the PAH group and non-PAH group according to echocardiographic results. Relative risk was determined by logistic regression analysis. The pulmonary artery pressure in the CKD group was higher than that in the control group ( p < 0.01). Pulmonary arterial pressure was higher in stage 4 to 5 CKD patients than in Stage 1 to 3 CKD patients ( p < 0. 01), and the incidence of PAH was also increased ( p < 0. 01). MIF in the CKD group were higher than in the control group ( p < 0.05). MIF in CKD patients with PAH were higher than those without PAH ( p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that MIF is correlated with PAH (OR = 10.745; 95% CI 2.288–89.447, p < 0.05). PAH is common in non-dialysis CKD patients, and with the deterioration of kidney disease, the incidence of PAH is gradually increased, indicating that MIF plays an important role in the development of PAH in CKD patients.
Short-term effectiveness of medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in young patients aged less than or equal to 60 years
Authors: Wang Fangxing , Xue Huaming , Ma Tong , Wen Tao , Yang Tao , Xue Long , Tu Yihui
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

The treatment for young patients with advanced knee arthritis by Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (Oxford-UKA) is still controversial. A relative few studies were published about Asian patients. We evaluated midterm results of Oxford-UKA in young patients aged less than or equal to 60 years.

Methods:

Between December 2009 and December 2018, 95 patients (109 knees) (mean age 57.48 years; range: 33–60 years) were included. The mean follow-up period was 3.0 years (range: 1.0–9.5 years). The functional outcomes and pain score of the knee before and after surgery were examined.

Results:

To the last follow-up, no patient died, six patients (nine knees) were lost and one patient underwent total knee revision in case of unexplained postoperative pain. The patients demonstrated significant improvement in range of knee motion (103.65 vs. 115.96, p < 0.05), Oxford Knee Score (40.0 vs. 14.4, p < 0.05), Hospital for Special Surgery Score (56.0 vs. 85.7, p < 0.05), and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) (5.23 vs. 1.08, p < 0.05) before and after surgery.

Conclusion:

Our midterm results showed that the Oxford-UKA was a reliable and effective treatment option for young patients aged less than or equal to 60 years with anterior medial osteoarthritis. The knee pain can be effectively relieved and excellent functional activities of the knee joint can be obtained after surgery.
Engaging Undergraduate Public Health Students Through a Textbook Creation Project
Authors: Kruger Jessica Sloan , Hollister Christopher
Published: October 2020

This study examines students’ perceptions of an open pedagogy experiment in which they created their own textbook for an undergraduate public health course. The lead author’s primary motivation for developing this assignment was the high cost associated with the traditional textbooks that were otherwise needed to cover the breadth of subject matter in the course. The resulting open textbook included 19 chapters, covering all the required components of the course, and the final version was published in a statewide open educational resource repository. Students provided feedback about this undertaking by way of an end-of-term survey. The results showed high percentages of students who associated the textbook creation project with greater engagement and satisfaction than the passive use of traditional textbooks. Students also reported their perception of a learning benefit related to the creation of course content. Pedagogical implications of this study are discussed, and future research questions are proposed.
“If at Least the Patient Could Not Be Forgotten About”: Communication in the Emergency Department as a Predictor of Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Villalona Seiichi , Boxtha Carol , Webb W Alex , Cervantes Cirenio , Wilson Jason W
Published: October 2020

Press Ganey survey data are used by institutions to understand patient experiences in the emergency department (ED). The present mixed-methods retrospective cohort study examined the effects of hallway placement, pain management reporting, communication approaches, time spent in the ED, and other demographic variables on predicting satisfaction ratings of doctors, nurses, and overall ED care. A total of 4940 patient responses between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2017, were analyzed from 2 EDs associated with an academic institution and tertiary care center. Consensus coding was used to qualitatively capture patient responses that relate to communication issues pertaining to care/empathy and understandings of ED procedures. After controlling for multiple factors, hallway placement, pain management, and understanding of ED procedures were associated with higher odds of negative ratings for doctors, nurses, and overall assessment. Issues with patient communication, particularly regarding understanding of ED procedures, were found to be a strong predictor of negative ratings of doctors, nurses, and overall care. These findings point to the improvements in communication as a potential point of intervention in mitigating negative patient experiences.
Class Mobility and Reproduction for Black and White Adults in the United States: A Visualization
Authors: Laurison Daniel , Dow Dawn , Chernoff Carolyn
Published: October 2020

The relationship between where people start out in life (class origin) and where they are likely to end up (class destination) is central to any question about the fairness of contemporary society. Yet we often don’t have a good picture—literally or metaphorically—of the contours of that relationship. Further, work on class mobility in the United States often glosses over the large differences between white and Black Americans’ class positions and mobility trajectories. This visualization, based on data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, shows the association between occupational class origin and destination for Black and white employed Americans ages 25 to 69. Stark racial inequality, produced by the legacy and ongoing operation of white supremacy, is evident in each aspect of these figures.
Leukemic evolution of polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia: genomic profiles predict time to transformation
Authors: Luque Paz Damien , Jouanneau-Courville Rébecca , Riou Jérémie , Ianotto Jean-Christophe , Boyer Françoise , Chauveau Aurélie , Renard Maxime , Chomel Jean-Claude , Cayssials Emilie , Gallego-Hernanz Maria-Pilar , Pastoret Cédric , Murati Anne , Courtier Frédéric , Rousselet Marie-Christine , Quintin-Roué Isabelle , Cottin Laurane , Orvain Corentin , Thépot Sylvain , Chrétien Jean-Marie , Delneste Yves , Ifrah Norbert , Blanchet Odile , Hunault-Berger Mathilde , Lippert Eric , Ugo Valérie
Published: October 2020

Among myeloproliferative neoplasms, polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) are the 2 entities associated with the most chronic disease course. Leukemic evolution occurs rarely but has a grim prognosis. The interval between diagnosis and leukemic evolution is highly variable, from a few years to >20 years. We performed a molecular evaluation of 49 leukemic transformations of PV and ET by targeted next-generation sequencing. Using a hierarchical classification, we identified 3 molecular groups associated with a distinct time to leukemic transformation. Short-term transformations were mostly characterized by a complex molecular landscape and mutations in IDH1/2, RUNX1, and U2AF1 genes, whereas long-term transformations were associated with mutations in TP53, NRAS, and BCORL1 genes. Studying paired samples from chronic phase and transformation, we detected some mutations already present during the chronic phase, either with a significant allele burden (short-term transformation) or with a very low allele burden (especially TP53 mutations). However, other mutations were not detected even 1 year before leukemic transformation. Our results suggest that the leukemic transformation of PV and ET may be driven by distinct time-dependent molecular mechanisms.
MLL-TFE3: a novel and aggressive KMT2A fusion identified in infant leukemia
Authors: Kosasih Hansen J. , Davidson Nadia M. , Bjelosevic Stefan , Morrish Emma , Brennan Margs S. , Oshlack Alicia , Johnstone Ricky W. , Brumatti Gabriela , Khaw Seong L. , Ekert Paul G.
Published: October 2020

Key Points

A novel KMT2A-rearrangement, MLL-TFE3, was identified in an infant leukemia patient. MLL-TFE3 expression produces aggressive leukemia in a mouse model.
Plasma calprotectin was associated with platelet activation and no-reflow phenomenon in acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Song Nian-Peng , Zhen Xiao-Wen , Li Liu-dong , Zhong Lin , Wang Hua , An Yi
Published: October 2020

Background

No-reflow occurs in 3–4% of all percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) and has a strong negative impact on clinical outcomes of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Therefore, the discovery of a biomarker that can early predict the occurrence of no-reflow has great clinical significance. Multiple factors including platelet activation are relevant to no-reflow. Calprotectin is found to be a biomarker of plaque instability and is identified to be a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of cardiovascular diseases. The association of plasma calprotectin with platelet activation and no-reflow phenomenon in ACS is not clear.

Methods

In this prospective study performed at Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital from 2017 to 2018, a total of 176 Chinese patients with ACS who had undergone PCIs were recruited consecutively, aged from 30 to 88 years. Angiographic no-reflow was defined as thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade less than 3. Blood samples were collected immediately at admission for the detection of plasma calprotectin and platelet–monocyte aggregates formation. Statistical analysis was performed for the variable’s comparisons between groups and the prediction value of plasma calprotectin for no-reflow.

Results

The mean age of the 176 included ACS patients were 64(±11) years and acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) was present in 41.5% of patients. Twenty-two patients had no-reflow during the PCI procedures and the prevalence was 12.5%. Patients with higher plasma calprotectin had a higher level of platelet–monocyte aggregates (PMA) and a higher prevalence of no-reflow (p < 0.001). The multivariate regression showed that plasma calprotectin and admission hs-cTnI were independently associated with PMA, while plasma calprotectin and serum LDL-c were independent predictors of no-reflow (p < 0.001 and p = 0.017). AUC of calprotectin for predicting no-reflow were 0.898. The cut-off value of plasma calprotectin for no-reflow was 4748.77 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 0.95 and a specificity of 0.77.

Conclusion

Plasma calprotectin was associated with platelet activation and may act as an early predictive biomarker of no-reflow in patients with acute coronary syndrome.