bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Beijing’s Working Population Based on Geographically Weighted Regression Model
Authors: Chen Yanyan , Qian Hanqiang , Wang Yang
Published: June 2020

Evaluation of urban planning and development is becoming more and more important due to the large-scale urbanization of the world. With the application of mobile phone data, people can analyze the development status of cities from more perspectives. By using the mobile phone data of Beijing, the working population density in different regions was identified. Taking the working population density in Beijing as the research object and combining the land use of the city, the development status of Beijing was evaluated. A geographically weighted regression model (GWR) was used to analyze the difference in the impact of land use on the working population between different regions. By establishing a correlation model between the working population and land use, not only can the city’s development status be evaluated, but it can also help city managers and planners to make decisions to promote better development of Beijing.
Forms of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Suspended Solids: A Case Study of Lihu Lake, China
Authors: Li Jialu , Zuo Qiting
Published: June 2020

Suspended solids are an important part of lake ecosystems, and their nitrogen and phosphorus contents have a significant effect on water quality. However, information on nitrogen and phosphorus forms in suspended solids remains limited. Therefore, a case study was conducted in Lihu Lake (China), a lake with characteristically high amounts of suspended solids. Nitrogen and phosphorus speciation in suspended solids was analyzed through a sequential extraction method. We also evaluated the sources of various forms of nitrogen and phosphorus and their different effects on eutrophication. The total nitrogen (TN) content was 758.9–3098.1 mg/kg. Moreover, the proportions of various N forms in the suspended solids of the study areas were ranked as follows: Hydrolyzable nitrogen (HN) > residual nitrogen (RN) > exchangeable nitrogen (EN). Total phosphorus (TP) ranged from 294.8 to 1066.4 mg/kg, and 58.6% of this TP was inorganic phosphorus (IP). In turn, calcium (Ca)-bound inorganic phosphorus (Ca-Pi) was the main component of IP. The correlation between various nitrogen and phosphorus forms showed that there were different sources of suspended nitrogen and phosphorus throughout Lihu Lake. Correlation analysis of water quality indices and comparative analysis with surface sediments showed that in Lihu Lake, the dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus contents in water were influenced by sediment through diffusion, while particle phosphorus content in water was influenced by suspended solids through adsorption; however, due to the higher phosphorus contents in suspended solids, we should pay more attention to the impact of suspended solids.
The Status of Edge Strands in Ferredoxin-Like Fold
Authors: Banach Mateusz , Fabian Piotr , Stapor Katarzyna , Konieczny Leszek , Ptak-Kaczor Magdalena , Roterman Irena
Published: June 2020

There is an opinion in professional literature that edge-strands in β-sheet are critical to the processes of amyloid transformation. Propagation of fibrillar forms mainly takes place on the basis of β-sheet type interactions. In many proteins, the edge strands represent only a partially matched form to the β-sheet. Therefore, the edge-strand takes slightly distorted forms. The assessment of the level of arrangement can be carried out based on studying the secondary structure as well as the structure of the hydrophobic core. For this purpose, a fuzzy oil drop model was used to determine the contribution of each fragment with a specific secondary structure to the construction of the system being the effect of a certain synergy, which results in the construction of a hydrophobic core. Studying the participation of β-sheets edge fragments in the hydrophobic core construction is the subject of the current analysis. Statuses of these edge fragments in β-sheets in ferredoxin-like folds are treated as factors that disturb the symmetry of the system.
On the Absolute Stable Difference Scheme for Third Order Delay Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Ashyralyev Allaberen , Hınçal Evren , Ibrahim Suleiman
Published: June 2020

The initial value problem for the third order delay differential equation in a Hilbert space with an unbounded operator is investigated. The absolute stable three-step difference scheme of a first order of accuracy is constructed and analyzed. This difference scheme is built on the Taylor’s decomposition method on three and two points. The theorem on the stability of the presented difference scheme is proven. In practice, stability estimates for the solutions of three-step difference schemes for different types of delay partial differential equations are obtained. Finally, in order to ensure the coincidence between experimental and theoretical results and to clarify how efficient the proposed scheme is, some numerical experiments are tested.
Algicidal Molecular Mechanism and Toxicological Degradation of Microcystis aeruginosa by White-Rot Fungi
Authors: Zeng Guoming , Gao Pei , Wang Jiale , Zhang Jinxi , Zhang Maolan , Sun Da
Published: June 2020

Current research on the inhibition of Microcystis aeruginosa growth is primarily focused on algae-lysing bacteria, and few studies have investigated the inhibitory mechanisms by which fungi affect it at the molecular level. A comparative analysis of the effects of Phanerochaete chrysosporium on the expression of the algal cell antioxidant protease synthesis gene prx, the biological macromolecule damage and repair genes recA, grpE, and fabZ, and the photosynthesis system-related genes psaB, psbD1 and rbcL, as well as genes for algal toxin synthesis mcyB, were performed to elucidate the molecular mechanism of Phanerochaete chrysosporium against Microcystis aeruginosa cells. RT-qPCR technology was used to study the molecular mechanism of algal cell inhibition by Phanerochaete chrysosporium liquid containing metabolites of Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Phanerochaete chrysosporium supernatant and Phanerochaete chrysosporium inactivated via high temperature sterilization at the gene expression level. Compared with the control, the chlorophyll-a contents dropped, and the recA, grpE, fabZ, and prx increased, but the psaB, psbD1, rbcL and mcyB showed that they were significantly reduced, which indicated that Phanerochaete chrysosporium can not only effectively destroy algal cells, but they may also reduce the expression of the Microcystis aeruginosa toxin gene and significantly block the metabolic system underlying the growth of algal cells and the synthesis of microcystins.
Reduced Membrane-Bound Alkaline Phosphatase Does Not Affect Binding of Vip3Aa in a Heliothis virescens Resistant Colony
Authors: Pinos Daniel , Chakroun Maissa , Millán-Leiva Anabel , Jurat-Fuentes Juan Luis , Wright Denis J. , Hernández-Martínez Patricia , Ferré Juan
Published: June 2020

The Vip3Aa insecticidal protein from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is produced by specific transgenic corn and cotton varieties for efficient control of target lepidopteran pests. The main threat to this technology is the evolution of resistance in targeted insect pests and understanding the mechanistic basis of resistance is crucial to deploy the most appropriate strategies for resistance management. In this work, we tested whether alteration of membrane receptors in the insect midgut might explain the >2000-fold Vip3Aa resistance phenotype in a laboratory-selected colony of Heliothis virescens (Vip-Sel). Binding of 125I-labeled Vip3Aa to brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) from 3rd instar larvae from Vip-Sel was not significantly different from binding in the reference susceptible colony. Interestingly, BBMV from Vip-Sel larvae showed dramatically reduced levels of membrane-bound alkaline phosphatase (mALP) activity, which was further confirmed by a strong downregulation of the membrane-bound alkaline phosphatase 1 (HvmALP1) gene. However, the involvement of HvmALP1 as a receptor for the Vip3Aa protein was not supported by results from ligand blotting and viability assays with insect cells expressing HvmALP1.
Hyperfine Splitting of Excited States of New Heavy Hadrons and Low-Energy Interaction of Hadronic Dark Matter with Photons, Nucleons, and Leptons
Authors: Kuksa Vladimir , Beylin Vitaly
Published: June 2020

We consider the structure of excited states and low-energy interaction of hadronic dark matter with photons, leptons, and nucleons. Description of the lowest excited levels is fulfilled in an analogy with the standard heavy-light mesons. Using the effective vertex of new heavy hadrons interaction with W-boson, we calculate cross-section of the lepton scattering on the dark matter particle. Analysis of strong low-energy interaction of new hadrons was carried out within the effective meson-exchange model based on dynamical realization of SU(3)-symmetry. A cross-section of nucleon scattering on the hadronic dark matter was also calculated using this model. The most essential phenomenological consequences of the low-energy dark matter interaction with leptons and nucleons are discussed.
Turnip Mosaic Virus Coat Protein Deletion Mutants Allow Defining Dispensable Protein Domains for ‘in Planta’ eVLP Formation
Authors: Yuste-Calvo Carmen , Ibort Pablo , Sánchez Flora , Ponz Fernando
Published: June 2020

The involvement of different structural domains of the coat protein (CP) of turnip mosaic virus, a potyvirus, in establishing and/or maintaining particle assembly was analyzed through deletion mutants of the protein. In order to identify exclusively those domains involved in protein–protein interactions within the particle, the analysis was performed by agroinfiltration “in planta”, followed by the assessment of CP accumulation in leaves and the assembly of virus-like particles lacking nucleic acids, also known as empty virus-like particles (eVLP). Thus, the interactions involving viral RNA could be excluded. It was found that deletions precluding eVLP assembly did not allow for protein accumulation either, probably indicating that non-assembled CP protein was degraded in the plant leaves. Deletions involving the CP structural core were incompatible with particle assembly. On the N-terminal domain, only the deletion avoiding the subdomain involved in interactions with other CP subunits was incorporated into eVLPs. The C-terminal domain was shown to be more permissive to deletions. Assembled eVLPs were found for mutants, eliminating the whole domain. The C-terminal domain mutants were unusually long, suggesting some role of the domain in the regulation of particle length. The identification of the CP domains responsible for eVLP formation will allow for new approaches to protein stretch replacement with peptides or proteins of nanobiotechnological interest. Finally, specific cases of application are considered.
The Effect of Vaccination with Live Attenuated Neethling Lumpy Skin Disease Vaccine on Milk Production and Mortality—An Analysis of 77 Dairy Farms in Israel
Authors: Morgenstern Michal , Klement Eyal
Published: June 2020

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an economically important, arthropod borne viral disease of cattle. Vaccination by the live attenuated homologous Neethling vaccine was shown as the most efficient measure for controlling LSD. However, adverse effects due to vaccination were never quantified in a controlled field study. The aim of this study was to quantify the milk production loss and mortality due to vaccination against LSD. Daily milk production, as well as culling and mortality, were retrieved for 21,844 cows accommodated in 77 dairy cattle farms in Israel. Adjusted milk production was calculated for each day during the 30 days post vaccination. This was compared to the preceding month by fitting mixed effects linear models. Culling and mortality rates were compared between the 60 days periods prior and post vaccination, by survival analysis. The results of the models indicate no significant change in milk production during the 30 days post vaccination period. No difference was observed between the pre- and post-vaccination periods in routine culling, as well as in immediate culling and in-farm mortality. We conclude that adverse effects due to Neethling vaccination are negligible.
Scarce Water Resources and Cereal Import Dependency: The Role of Integrated Water Resources Management
Authors: Castro Campos Bente , Ren Yanjun , Loy Jens-Peter
Published: June 2020

This study globally analyzes the nonlinear relationship between cereal import dependency and total renewable water resources per capita by testing for potential thresholds in water resources. Data are from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and consider the years of 2002, 2007, and 2012. The results show evident ceiling effects with a threshold of 1588 m3/(capita/year) in the multiple predictor model. Above this value, the total renewable water resources per capita no longer have a considerable effect on cereal import dependency. Importantly, we found that if integrated water resource management improves, cereal import dependency will increase for countries with total renewable water resources per capita between 1588 m3/(capita/year) and 5000 m3/(capita/year), but not for countries below or equal to the threshold of 1588 m3/(capita/year). Water-scarce countries above the threshold use cereal imports as a coping strategy to save limited national water resources. This strategy might be suggested to extremely water-scarce countries below the threshold to increase their water use efficiency. Global solidarity of grain exporters with water-scarce countries is required to guarantee their food security, while water-scarce countries need to overcome their skepticism of foreign dominance through food imports.
Dermatology in primary care: an audit of the proportion of patients who present to general practice with a dermatological problem that could be self-managed
Authors: Dolfini Luamar , Patel Yogesh
Published: June 2020

Background

A considerable proportion of GPs’ workload is dermatological. It is important to investigate what common skin conditions encountered in primary care can be self-managed, in an effort to alleviate the burden on primary care.

Aim

The purpose of the audit was to identify the proportion of consultations that are dermatological in nature and analyse potential for self-management by patients.

Method

Data was collected using the patient electronic record system (EMIS) in general practice. A search was made for all consultations from the 17 April to 15 May 2019, which included all new presenting complaints that were dermatological in nature. The criteria for self-management included advising over the counter (OTC) medication or reassurance. On the other hand, a case was deemed not self-manageable if prescription only medication (POM) was prescribed or if a referral to dermatology was made.

Results

There were a total of 2175 consultations, where 246 (11.31%) cases were dermatological. Of the 246, 80 cases (32.5%) could be self-managed. There were 46 different dermatological presenting complaints of which the 5 most common included: rash (51 cases), dermatitis (44 cases), acne vulgaris (13 cases), moles (12 cases), dry skin (11 cases). None of the acne or moles cases could be self-managed, whereas 23%, 68.2%, 72.7% of rashes, dermatitis, and dry skin cases, respectively, could be self-managed.

Conclusion

Certain dermatological conditions have more potential for self-management than others. Research into teledermatology as a means of addressing patient concern and providing clinical information is important in order to reduce unnecessary consultations.
‘Would you like to join the NHS Organ Donor Register?’ A general practice feasibility study
Authors: Jones Catrin Pedder , Papadopoulos Chris , Randhawa Gurch , Asghar Zeeshan
Published: June 2020

Background

A shortage of organ donors exists in the UK and targeting family consent is key for increasing donation consent rates. Registration on the NHS Organ Donor Register (NHS ODR) facilitates this, as it guides families on their loved ones donation preference. In general practice, an opportunity to register is provided, however only to new patients. To improve access to registration opportunities, an intervention was designed where general practice staff asked their patients if they wished to register as an organ donor.

Aim

To assess an organ donation registration intervention for feasibility and acceptability in a UK general practice setting.

Method

One general practice, in Luton, UK, conducted the intervention for 3 months (April to July 2018). Training was held in March 2018, and leaflets and posters were displayed for the 3-month period. An embedded experimental mixed-methods design was used, with data collected via SystmONE questionnaires, surveys and focus groups.

Results

The intervention was found to be feasible and acceptable to conduct with some patients by some staff members. During the 3 months, patients were asked in 12.4% of face-to-face consultations (n=812). Nurses and healthcare assistants were more able to conduct the intervention than doctors. Lack of time, telephone consultations, and it not being appropriate were the most common reasons for not asking. Finally, 244 patients joined the NHS ODR; 30.4% of those asked.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that general practice could be a feasible location in which an intervention designed to increase NHS ODR registration could be conducted
What do patients want? A qualitative exploration of patients’ needs and expectations regarding online access to their primary care record
Authors: Davidge Gail , Sanders Caroline , Hays Rebecca , Morris Rebecca , Atherton Helen , Mold Freda , McMillan Brian
Published: June 2020

Background

Primary care records have traditionally served the needs and demands of clinicians rather than those of the patient. GP contracts in England state practices must promote and offer registered patients online access to their primary care record and research has shown benefits to both patients and clinicians of doing so. Despite this, we know little about patients’ needs and expectations regarding online access.

Aim

To explore patients’ views about accessing online primary care records and to find out how patients would like to interact with their records and what support they may need.

Method

Interviews and focus groups with a sample of 50 patients from a variety of socio-demographic backgrounds who were either; eligible for the NHS Health Check; had multimorbidities or were carers. Thematic analysis of data identified major themes impacting upon patients’ wishes and needs as well as highlighting population-specific issues.

Results

Participants highlighted a wide range of views about the benefits and drawbacks of accessing their records online. The majority of participants indicated that they would be more likely to access their online primary care record if improvements were made to the design, reliability and functionality of existing online record services. Carers found accessing online records particularly useful.

Conclusion

Consultation with patients and carers about their experiences of accessing online records; support needs and preferred functions can provide useful insights to inform the future design of online record services.
GPs’ experience of safeguarding in care homes: what do they see and what do they do?
Authors: Alton Elisabeth , White Caroline
Published: June 2020

Background

Abuse of older people in care homes is an on-going problem. GPs, as the most frequent practitioner group visiting care homes, have an important role in detecting and reporting abuse. However, there is little research about GPs’ experiences of working in care homes and how they work to safeguard residents.

Aim

To explore the challenges experienced by GPs working in this unique environment and how these impact on safeguarding.

Method

An online survey collected qualitative data about GPs’ experiences as visiting professionals to care homes, with an emphasis on safeguarding. A thematic analysis identified key themes.

Results

In total, 58 completed surveys were returned, with a range of practitioner experience represented (1–30 years). Approximately 70% were GP partners, with the remainder salaried and locum doctors. Over one third reported they had witnessed signs of definite or possible abuse within care homes. Emerging themes related to the complex care home context, in which residents had multiple health needs and GPs had to build multiple relationships with managers, carers, families, and residents. Difficulties in accessing information were reported; residents could not always provide information, GPs had to rely on others for information, and rarely had access to electronic records.

Conclusion

GP work in care homes is a complex and skilled role, in which GPs encounter evidence of poor care and abuse. Key themes in respect of barriers and facilitators of good care were highlighted. The reliance on others for information and the need to build relationships with staff/managers may raise tensions in respect of safeguarding practice.
Quantifying empathy levels among UK undergraduate medical students: an online survey
Authors: Garnett Sarah , Dambha-Miller Hajira , Stuart Beth
Published: June 2020

Background

Empathy is a key health care concept and refers to care that incorporates understanding of patient perspective’s, shared decision making, and consideration of the broader context in which illness is experience. Evidence suggests experiences of doctor empathy correlate with improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction. It has also been linked to job satisfaction, and mental wellbeing for doctors. To date, there is a paucity of evidence on empathy levels among medical students. This is critical to understand given that it is a key point at which perceptions and practices of empathy in the longer term might be formed.

Aim

To quantify the level of empathy among UK undergraduate medical students

Method

An anonymised cross-sectional online survey was distributed to medical students across three universities. The previously validated Davis’s Interpersonal Reactivity Index was used to quantify empathy. The survey also collected information on age, sex, ethnicity, year of medical school training and included a free-text box for ‘any other comments’.

Results

Data analysis is currently underway with high response rates. Mean empathy scores by age, sex, year of study and ethnic group are presented. A correlation analysis will examine associations between age and year of study, and mean empathy sores.

Conclusion

These data will help to provide a better understanding of empathy levels to inform the provision of future empathy training and medical school curriculum design. Given previous evidence linking experiences of empathy to better health outcomes, the findings may also be significant to future patient care
Missed acute coronary syndrome during telephone triage at out-of-hours primary care: lessons from a case-control study
Authors: Erkelens Carmen , Rutten Frans , Wouters Loes , de Groot Esther , Damoiseaux Roger , Hoes Arno , Zwart Dorien
Published: June 2020

Background

Serious adverse events (SAE) at out-of-hours services in primary care (OHS-PC) are rare. It most often concerns missed acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Root cause analyses highlighted errors in the triage process, but these analyses are hampered by hindsight bias.

Aim

To compare triage calls at the OHS-PC of missed ACS with matched controls with chest discomfort but without a missed ACS; and to assess predictors of missed ACS.

Method

A case-control study with triage recordings of calls of a missed ACS registered between 2013–2017. Controls were from the same period. Cases were matched 1:8 with controls based on age and gender. Clinical, patient and call characteristics were assessed, and 15 expert GPs rated the triage safety and quality, being blinded to the final diagnosis. We applied conditional logistic regression analysis.

Results

Fifteen missed ACS calls and 120 matched control calls were included. Cases used less cardiovascular medication (38.5% versus 64.1%, P = 0.05), and more often experienced retrosternal chest pain (63.3% versus 24.7%, P = 0.02) than controls. Consultation of the supervising GP (86.7% versus 49.2%, P = 0.02) occurred more often in cases than controls. Experts rated the triage of cases more often as ‘poor’ (33.3% versus 10.9%, P = 0.001), and ‘unsafe’ (73.3% versus 22.5%, P<0.001) than that of controls.

Conclusion

It seems nearly impossible to differentiate missed ACS at the OHS-PC from others with chest discomfort based on symptom presentation.
Interpreter costs across clinical commissioning groups in England 2017–2018: a cross sectional survey using ‘freedom of information’ requests
Authors: Lehane David , Oliver Philip , Mitchell Caroline , Burton Christopher
Published: June 2020

Background

Professional interpreters are considered to be the gold standard when meeting the needs of patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) in primary care. The models by which CCGs supply interpreting services (IS) vary. Many CCGs use external commercial IS, while other CCGs commission ‘not for profit’ services such as the Advocacy and Interpreting Service in Tower Hamlets, the Sussex Interpreting Service, and the decommissioned Sheffield Community Access and Interpreting Service. Research on comparative costs and needs of the LEP population is lacking.

Aim

To compare the costs of interpreting services between CCG’s in England.

Method

A cross-sectional study involving CCGs in England. A standardised request was sent to 195 CCGs inviting comment on how much the CCG spent (2017–2018) on IS. The data were plotted against a number of demographic variables (https://fingertips.phe.org.uk) and analysed using regression analysis.

Results

Survey response rate: 86% of CCGs (n = 169). Of those CCGs who responded, 39% (n = 66) did not hold IS cost data. NHS England spent £2 951 348.16 for IS services for the year 2017–2018. A positive correlation was noted with increased cost of interpreting services when plotted against increasing percentage BME or percentage birth to non-UK parents. However, there were wide variations around correlation of best fit indicating variation in spending between CCGs for similar populations.

Conclusion

Inter CCG variation in correlations between demographic variables and expenditure suggests further research is needed to determine how to optimise and resource safe and equitable IS across the UK population.
Motivating factors behind skill mix change: results from a practice managers’ survey in England
Authors: Gibson Jon , Spooner Sharon , Sutton Matt , McDermott Imelda , Goff Mhorag , Checkland Kath , Hodgson Damian , McBride Anne , Hann Mark
Published: June 2020

Background

The expansion of the primary care workforce by employing a varied range of practitioners (‘skill mix’) is a key component of the General Practice Forward View (GPFV). The extent of skill mix change and where that has occurred has been examined using publicly available practice level workforce data. However, such data does not provide information regarding specific motivating factors behind employment decisions for individual practices nor future workforce plans.

Aim

To identify key motivating factors behind practice workforce decisions and their future workforce plans.

Method

An online questionnaire was sent to practice managers in England. Data collection is ongoing; however, 1000 practices have responded to the survey so far. The questionnaire was composed of questions related to current workforce, motivating factors behind employment decisions, planned future workforce changes, financial assistance with employing staff (for example, HEE or CCG funding) and ideal workforce.

Results

Early results indicate that practices that have employed physician associates have done so to increase appointment availability (78% of practices) and release GP time (68%). Sixty-six per cent of practices who have employed pharmacists have received some form of financial assistance with 21% of practices still receiving assistance. When asked to construct an ideal workforce, ‘new’ roles accounted for 20% of that workforce on average, which is a significantly larger proportion than those roles currently account for.

Conclusion

Although data collection and analysis are ongoing, the results of the survey provide novel insights into the underlying motivating factors behind employment decisions, specifically for new roles such as pharmacists, PAs and paramedics.
Continuing professional development for GPs in Myanmar: a pilot programme
Authors: Kandola Kerran , Oo Myint
Published: June 2020

Background

The quality of general practice in Myanmar is currently highly variable. No formalised system of revalidation yet exists and so engagement with continuing professional development (CPD) activities and motivation to further one’s own knowledge is sporadic.

Aim

To train GPs in three key areas; 1) recording CPD activities and maintaining a portfolio logbook; 2) reflecting on learning; and 3) what a future formalised CPD credit system may involve.

Method

Sixty-one GPs were recruited in March 2019 and given training on the above. Logbooks were issued, which were completed by the GPs while attending a simultaneous 3-month ‘GP CPD Refresher’ course, organised by the GP Society of Myanmar. The logbooks were then marked and individualised feedback given before issuing CPD accredited certificates.

Results

All GPs agreed the pilot helped them to better understand how to maintain a CPD logbook and the importance of doing so (retention rate = 67%). All GPs also reported they would now be more likely to continue to keep a portfolio. Finally, all GPs surveyed felt a credit reward system, used as tangible evidence of CPD participation, would positively influence their future engagement with CPD.

Conclusion

Improving general practice is a key component in helping Myanmar develop its healthcare system; one step required is making engagement with CPD compulsory for the revalidation of clinicians. This pilot has highlighted existing inadequacies within current training of GPs, as well as the potential benefits of implementing a CPD credit reward system.
Antibiotic resistance of uropathogenic Escherichia coli and ESBL prevalence in general practice patients over 10 years
Authors: van Driel Antoinette
Published: June 2020

Background

Bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics changes over time. Knowledge of the susceptibility is important for antibiotic treatment guidelines in general practices.

Aim

To determine the antibiotic-susceptibility of E. coli from uncomplicated UTI among women in general practices in the Netherlands and to compare the results with those collected in 2004 and 2009.

Method

Urine samples were collected from women with symptoms of uncomplicated UTI, in 30 sentinel GP practices of the Nivel Primary Care database. Patient characteristics, E. coli susceptibility and ESBL prevalence were analysed.

Results

In total, 689 samples were collected. E. coli was the most isolated uropathogen (83%). Antibiotic susceptibility was stable over time except for ciprofloxacin (96%, 97% and 94% in 2004, 2009 and 2014, respectively; P<0.05). The susceptibility to co-amoxiclav was 88%, 87% and 92% in 2004, 2009 and 2014, respectively. The prevalence of ESBL producing E. coli increased from 0.1% in 2004, to 2.2% in 2014 (P<0.05). Susceptibility for co-trimoxazole was the highest in the West (88%) and the lowest in the North (72%, P = 0.021). Ciprofloxacin susceptibility was related to antibiotic use in the past 3 months (97% no use versus 90% use, P = 0.002) and those aged >70 years (P = 0.005). In 2014, prescription of fosfomycin increased compared to 2009 (14.3% versus 5.6%) at the expense of co-amoxiclav, co-trimoxazole and ciprofloxacin (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The antibiotic susceptibility percentages to the agents tested were stable over the 10-year period, except for ciprofloxacin as was the prevalence of ESBL producing E. coli. Surveillance with regular intervals is warranted.
Revolutionising participants’ health and wellbeing through neuro-reprogramming via the Slimpod® app: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kyle Richard , Jones Stephen , Roycroft-Davis Sandra
Published: June 2020

Background

Obesity is a global pandemic that threatens the health of the population and the sustainability of publicly funded health care. This randomised controlled trial addresses the gap in the literature surrounding unconscious persuasion and its use in weight loss and weight management. The Slimpod® tool is unlike any of those currently available on the market. Using breakthrough research in ‘nudge’ thinking, it is designed to retrain an adult’s habitual and emotional response to foodstuffs. This therapeutic model allows unconscious thought to be shaped into a manner more consistent with a healthy lifestyle. Candidates can then take control of their eating behaviours to induce a holistic state of wellbeing.

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of an audio unconscious-persuasion weight loss/weight management intervention (Slimpod®) compared with audio relaxation (control).

Method

Eighty-two overweight adults were randomised to intervention (n = 41) and control groups (n = 41). Weight was assessed at trial commencement, mid-trial (12 weeks), and trial end (24 weeks). Secondary outcomes were assessed using the Eating Self-Efficacy Scale (ESES), Exercise Confidence Scale (ECS), and Quality of Life Index Generic Version III (QLI-G3) at the start and end of the trial.

Results

Reports found a statistically significant difference in mean weight loss between intervention group (1.7 kg at 12 weeks and 4.3 kg at 24 weeks) versus control (0.6 kg and 1.2 kg respectively) at P<0.001. ESES scores showed greater self-efficacy (P = 0.008) in intervention at 24 weeks. No significant differences in ESES negative affect sub-scale score or ECS were observed.

Conclusion

Slimpod® was effective at reducing weight and increasing eating self-efficacy in overweight adults.
A sorte deste mundo: percursos de Marília de Dirceu no século XIX
Authors: Furtado Joaci Pereira
Published: June 2020

Num dia incerto de fevereiro de 1810 desaparecia, na ilha de Moçambique, o magistrado, jurista e poeta Tomás Antônio Gonzaga. Nascido na cidade do Porto em 1744, tornou-se célebre por sua participação – suposta ou verdadeira, mas sempre negada por ele – na Inconfidência Mineira (1788-1789), posteriormente erigida como instante fundador da brasilidade pela história oficial. Mas ele figura sobretudo como autor, entre outras obras, de um dos mais difundidos livros escritos em língua portuguesa: Marília de Dirceu, conjunto de poemas líricos inicialmente publicado, em quatro edições acrescidas, de 1792 a 1802. As inúmeras edições desses versos, entretanto, nunca foram acompanhadas de certa investigação bibliográfica talvez elementar. É dela que este artigo trata.
Errâncias: cartografias em trajetos de-formativos
Authors: Kasper Kátia Maria , Tóffoli Gabriela De Sousa
Published: June 2020

Convocamos fragmentos de andanças de duas professoras, duas proposições de escrita em trajetos diversos que se compõem, lendo a formação como devir, abertura para novos encontros. Uma delas coloca-se um pouco à deriva, com Jack Kerouac, Suely Rolnik, clowns e mais. Outra passeia com Félix Guattari, Fernanda Eugénio e João Fiadeiro, por cidades, catando. Ambas se encontram com Agnès Varda. Territórios que se desfazem enquanto novas composições se delineiam, num processo sem fim de leituras e aberturas de mundos.
Gêneros textuais nos livros didáticos do Ensino Médio
Authors: Zanchetta Jr. Juvenal , Mazzo Keli , Menegon Erika Nogueira
Published: June 2020

Este artigo analisa o conjunto de textos de terceiros constantes em livros didáticos aprovados pelo MEC em 2015, dentro do Programa Nacional do Livro Didático para o Ensino Médio (PNLEM). Partindo da referência de gênero textual amparada pelas diretrizes curriculares nacionais, avaliam-se as coleções mais distribuídas no país, observando-se os gêneros empregados, os domínios discursivos a que os gêneros se referem, as condições de apresentação e finalidades dos textos. Observam-se ainda características que ajudam a explicar o sucesso da coleção mais distribuída no PNLEM/2015.
Recent Advances in Two-Dimensional Magnets: Physics and Devices towards Spintronic Applications
Authors: Ningrum Vertikasari P. , Liu Bowen , Wang Wei , Yin Yao , Cao Yi , Zha Chenyang , Xie Hongguang , Jiang Xiaohong , Sun Yan , Qin Sichen , Chen Xiaolong , Qin Tianshi , Zhu Chao , Wang Lin , Huang Wei
Published: June 2020

The emergence of low-dimensional nanomaterials has brought revolutionized development of magnetism, as the size effect can significantly influence the spin arrangement. Since the first demonstration of truly two-dimensional magnetic materials (2DMMs) in 2017, a wide variety of magnetic phases and associated properties have been exhibited in these 2DMMs, which offer a new opportunity to manipulate the spin-based devices efficiently in the future. Herein, we focus on the recent progress of 2DMMs and heterostructures in the aspects of their structural characteristics, physical properties, and spintronic applications. Firstly, the microscopy characterization of the spatial arrangement of spins in 2D lattices is reviewed. Afterwards, the optical probes in the light-matter-spin interactions at the 2D scale are discussed. Then, particularly, we systematically summarize the recent work on the electronic and spintronic devices of 2DMMs. In the section of electronic properties, we raise several exciting phenomena in 2DMMs, i.e., long-distance magnon transport, field-effect transistors, varying magnetoresistance behavior, and (quantum) anomalous Hall effect. In the section of spintronic applications, we highlight spintronic devices based on 2DMMs, e.g., spin valves, spin-orbit torque, spin field-effect transistors, spin tunneling field-effect transistors, and spin-filter magnetic tunnel junctions. At last, we also provide our perspectives on the current challenges and future expectations in this field, which may be a helpful guide for theorists and experimentalists who are exploring the optical, electronic, and spintronic properties of 2DMMs.
РОЛЬ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНО-ОСВІТНЬОГО СЕРЕДОВИЩА ЗАКЛАДУ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ ПРИ РЕСУРСНО-ОРІЄНТОВАНОМУ НАВЧАННІ СТУДЕНТІВ У ВИЩІЙ ШКОЛІ
Authors: Кононец Н. В.
Published: June 2020

У статті автор розкриває роль інформаційно-освітнього середовища закладу вищої освіти при ресурсно-орієнтованому навчанні студентів у вищій школі. Інформаційно-освітнє середовище закладу вищої освіти як дидактична основа ресурсно-орієнтованого навчання студентів у вищій школі представлене як педагогічна система, що об’єднує в собі інформаційні освітні ресурси, комп’ютерні засоби навчання, засоби управління навчальним процесом, педагогічні прийоми, методи і технології, направлені на формування інтелектуально-розвиненої соціально-значущої творчої особистості, що володіє необхідним рівнем професійних знань, умінь і навичок для ефективного функціонування в інформаційному суспільстві. Компонентами інформаційно-освітнього середовища закладу вищої освіти є суб’єктно-ресурсний, матеріально-технічний, дидактичний, технологічний компоненти та веб-система закладу вищої освіти. Суб’єктно-ресурсний компонент визначає користувачів, розробників та учасників середовища, консолідує ресурси закладу вищої освіти для створення та розвитку середовища: кадрові, матеріально-технічні, навчально-методичні, фінансові та інформаційні ресурси. Матеріально-технічний компонент містить аудиторії, лабораторії, спеціальні кабінети, бібліотека закладу вищої освіти як комплексний медіацентр, що забезпечує доступ до інформації, комп’ютерна техніка, мультимедійні пристрої, комп’ютерні мережі тощо. Дидактичний компонент містить форми, методи та засоби навчання студентів, які, разом з традиційними, реалізуються за допомогою програмно-технічних і телекомунікаційних засобів (дистанційне, змішане, мобільне навчання). Технологічний компонент забезпечує доступ до навчальної інформації завдяки сучасним інтернет-технологіям, можливості розробки електронних освітніх ресурсів, організацію технологій взаємодії (інтерактивної, мобільної, візуальної). Веб-система закладу вищої освіти як компонент його інформаційно-освітнього середовища є об’єднуючим для усіх чотирьох компонентів – сукупність веб-сайтів, об’єднаних офіційним веб-сайтом. Розглянуто важливі складові інформаційно-освітнього середовища ВНЗ Укоопспілки «Полтавський університет економіки і торгівлі»: Головний центр дистанційного навчання, віртуальне навчальне середовище Інституту економіки, управління та інформаційних технологій, електронні навчально-методичні комплекси дисциплін, створені у вигляді дистанційних курсів за допомогою сервісу https://sites.google.com/.
Namazda Tesettür
Authors: GENÇ Mustafa , DOĞRU Hatice
Published: June 2020

Dünya ve ahiret mutluluğunun sağlanmasında ibadet hayatının çok önemli bir yeri vardır. İbadetler denildiğinde önce akla namaz gelir. Namaz; tekbir ile başlayıp belli söz ve hareketlerin varlığı ile anlam kazanarak selâm ile tamamalanan bir ibadettir. Namaz öncesi hazırlıklara namazın şartları denilmektedir ki bunlar birer farzdır. Onlardan birisi de örtülmesi gereken yerleri örtme anlamında “setr-i avret”tir. Bu şart kişilerin fitrî yapılarına, çeşitli durumlarına ve durumlara göre bazı yönleriyle farklılık arz etmektedir. Ayrıca bu örtünmenin, temizlik tarafı gibi bazı önemli meseleleri de vardır. Özellikle son zamanlarda namazda örtünmeyi ilgilendiren çeşitli durum ve farklı kıyâfetlerle namazın cevâzıyla ilgili sorularla sıkça karşılaşılması sebebiyle bu konunun yeniden incelenmesinin faydalı olacağı düşünülmüştür. Bu makalede namazda “setr-i avret” meselelerinin incelenmesi, zamanımızda muhatab olunan bazı sorulara cevap aranması ve böylece namazda kıyâfetin ölçüsünün tespiti hedeflenmiştir.
Streptomyces suşlarında farklı genetik manipulasyonların ksilinaz enzim üretimi üzerine etkisi
Authors: SARIGÜLLÜ ÖNALAN Fatma Esen
Published: June 2020

Çukurova Üniversitesi’nin 5 farklı bölgesinden alınan toprak örneklerinden 3 Streptomyces suşu izole edildi. S40, S47, S48 suşlarının 7 gün sonundaki ksilanaz aktivitesi sırasıyla 50,92 U/mL, 49,51 U/mL, 47,79 U/mL tespit edilmiştir. Yüksek ksilanaz aktivitesi gösteren bu suşlar arasında gerçekleştirilen protoplast füzyon çalışması sonucu farklı koloni morfolojsi gösteren 9 suş seçilmiştir. (40-48)R2 ve (47-48)R3 suşlarının ksilanaz aktivitesi ebeveyn suşlara göre sırasıyla %25,9 ve % 31,9 oranında arttığı tespit edilmiştir. Protoplast füzyon tekniğiyle enzim aktivitesinin geliştirilebileceği gösterilmiştir.
In Vitro Anti-Helicobacter Pylori and Antimycobacterial Activity Evaluation Of Selected Plants From Turkey
Authors: KARADAĞ Ayşe Esra , ÇAŞKURLU Ayşegül , TOSUN Fatma
Published: June 2020

In this study, the extracts of Ulmus minor Mill. subsp. minor (Ulmaceae), Lathyrus pratensis L. (Leguminosae), Glaucium leiocarpum Bois. (Papaveraceae), and Echium vulgare L. (Boraginacea) were investigated for their in vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori and anti-mycobacterial activity.

The air-dried plant material was powdered and extracted with 70% ethanol by maceration. The extract was filtered and evaporated to dryness under the vacuum and then dissolved in a water-ethanol (90:10) mixture and extracted with dichloromethane and ethyl acetate, respectively. Antibacterial activity was investigated by microdilution method against Helicobacter pylori ATCC 43504, Mycobacterium smegmatis ATCC 14468 and Mycobacterium avium ATCC 25291.

The ethyl acetate extract of U. minor showed activity with MIC of 250 µg / mL against H. pylori. The other extracts showed no or weak inhibitory activity at >2000 µg/mL concentrations against the tested microorganisms. In conclusion, ethyl acetate extract of U. minor may be used for the treatment of H. pylori infections.
ACPA IN SALIVA AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH PERIODONTITIS AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Authors: Bolyarova-Konova Theodora Nikolaeva , Stefanov Lubomir Deyanov , Kolarov Zlatimir Gospodinov , Tanev Dobromir Ivanov , Yankova Petya Stefanova
Published: June 2020

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (ACPA) are formed by the action of host-generated antigens and are part of the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They are a sensitive and highly specific indicator of RA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the study involved 105 subjects aged 32 to 85 years (Mean age 50,6 ±13,07), divided into four groups: Group I – with periodontitis (P) and without RA, with diagnosed osteoarthritis – 26 patients; Group II – with P and RA – 28 patients; Group III – without P and with RA – 26 patients; Group IV – without P and without RA – 25 individuals. All patients underwent clinical and laboratory tests for the diagnosis of RA and osteoarthritis, a clinical periodontal examination, and unstimulated whole saliva was collected.

RESULTS

We found significantly higher salivary ACPA levels in RA patients compared to healthy subjects (p <0.0001). In P patients we found significantly higher levels of ACPA in saliva than in healthy subjects (p <0.0001). Among P patients, we found a significant correlation between ACPA concentration in saliva and the following indicators: PISA; PD; BOP, respectively (p<0.001), (p =0.003), (p =0.007). Among RA patients, our results showed a significant correlation of ACPA concentration in saliva with the following indicators: serum ACPA concentration (p <0.0001); serum RF concentration (p <0.0001); DAS-28 (CRP) (p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

Based on the established correlation between salivary ACPA levels and RA indicators, a high concentration of ACPA in saliva may be suggested as an easily accessible indicator of RA, but further studies are needed to ascertain this possibility. The established association between periodontal parameters and salivary ACPA levels confirms the effect of periodontal inflammation on salivary ACPA concentration and justifies the treatment of P as a way of preventing and controlling RA.
Analisis Manajemen Risiko Keselamatan di Perusahaan Kontraktor Pertambangan Batubara Site XYZ Berdasarkan Sistem Manajemen Keselamatan Pertambangan Mineral dan Batubara
Authors: Setianingrum Astien , Susilowati Indri Hapsari
Published: June 2020

Risk management is a process of managing risk so the organization can achieve its goals. A strong fundamental is necessary for understanding the concept of risk management before it is implemented. This study will analyze mining safety risk management at PT HPU site XYZ based on the Mineral and Coal Mine Safety Management System (SMKP Minerba). This research is a qualitative descriptive study . Data retrieval is done through in-depth interviews and document review (documentation) with key informants, namely, 4 Project Managers, 14 Superintendents, and 18 Foreman.The results of the interviews were analyzed by its content and compared to PT HPU documents based on Mineral and Coal Mining Safety Management System (SMKP Minerba) and also other risk management standards (ISO 31000: 2009, AS / NZS 4360: 2004, and ISO 45001: 2018) for additional reference. Based on content analysis, it was found that the supervisor's interpretation of PT HPU regarding risk management was not fully in accordance with risk management standards since the company's procedures had not accommodated the entire risk management process. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate procedures for risk management that are integrated with the company's mining safety management system and understood by each line of management.