bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Recreation in a Snow-Covered Forest Environment on the Psychological Relaxation of Young Females
Authors: Bielinis Ernest , Łukowski Adrian , Omelan Aneta , Boiko Sergii , Takayama Norimasa
Published: August 2019

Forest recreation can be successfully conducted for the purpose of psychological relaxation, as has been proven in previous scientific studies. During the winter in many countries, when snow cover occurs frequently, forest recreation (walking, relaxation, photography, etc.) is common. Nevertheless, whether forest therapy conducted in a forest environment with a snow cover will also have a positive effect on psychological indicators remains unknown. Furthermore, male subjects frequently participate in forest therapy experiments, whereas females are rarely involved. Thus, in this study, the effectuality of forest recreation during winter and with snow cover was tested on 32 young females. For these reasons, the experiment involved 15-minute periods of relaxation in a forest environment or in an urban environment, in addition to a pre-test under indoor conditions. Four psychological questionnaires (POMS, PANAS, ROS, SVS) were administered to participants before and after interventions. Results showed that participants’ levels of negative mood, as measured by different aspects of the POMS questionnaire (tension-anxiety, anger-hostility, depression-dejection, confusion, fatigue), decreased after exposure to the forest environment. In contrast, both tension-anxiety and anger-hostility increased in the urban environment. The indicator of negative affect from the PANAS questionnaire also increased after exposure to the urban environment, whereas the indicator of positive affect based on PANAS was higher in the forest environment than in the urban environment. Restorativeness and subjective vitality exhibited higher values after exposure to the forest environment in comparison to those from the control and pre-test. The changes in these indicators demonstrates that forest recreation in the snow during winter can significantly increase psychological relaxation in young females, as well as showing that recreation can be successfully conducted under these winter conditions.
The Matrisome during Aging and Longevity: A Systems-Level Approach towards Defining Matreotypes Promoting Healthy Aging
Authors: Ewald Collin
Published: August 2019

Accumulation of damage is generally considered the cause of aging. Interventions that delay aging mobilize mechanisms that protect and repair cellular components. Consequently, research has been focused on studying the protective and homeostatic mechanisms within cells. However, in humans and other multicellular organisms, cells are surrounded by extracellular matrices (ECM), which are important for tissue structure, function and intercellular communication. During aging, components of the ECM become damaged through fragmentation, glycation, crosslinking, and accumulation of protein aggregation, all of which contribute to age-related pathologies. Interestingly, placing senescent cells into a young ECM rejuvenates them and we found that many longevity-assurances pathways re-activate de-novosynthesis of ECM proteins during aging. This raises the question of what constitutes a young ECM to reverse aging or maintain health? In order to make inroads to answering this question, I suggest a systems-level approach of quantifying the matrisome or ECM compositions reflecting health, pathology, or phenotype and propose a novel term, the “matreotype”, to describe this. The matreotype is defined as the composition and modification of ECM or matrisome proteins associated with or caused by a phenotype, such as longevity, or a distinct and acute physiological state, as observed during aging or disease. Every cell type produces its unique ECM. Interestingly, cancer-cell types can even be identified based on their unique ECM composition. Thus, the matreotype reflects cellular identity and physiological status. Defined matreotypes could be used as biomarkers or prognostic factors for disease or health status during aging with potential relevance for personalized medicine. Treatment with biologics that alter ECM-to-cell mechanotransduction might be a strategy to reverse age-associated pathologies. An understanding of how to reverse from an old to a young matreotype might point towards novel strategies to rejuvenate cells and help maintain tissue homeostasis to promote health during aging.
What Proportion Counts? Disaggregating Access to Safely Managed Sanitation in an Emerging Town in Tanzania
Authors: Komakech Hans C. , Moyo Francis , Roda Oscar Veses , Machunda Revocatus L. , Cairncross Sandy
Published: August 2019

Sustainable Development Goal six sets an ambitious target of leaving no one without adequate sanitation by 2030. The key concern is the lack of local human and financial capital to fund to collect reliable information to monitor progress towards the goal. As a result, national and local records may be telling a different story of the proportion of safely managed sanitation that counts towards achieving the SDGs. This paper unveils such inconsistency in sanitation data generated by urban authorities and proposes a simple approach for collecting reliable and verifiable information on access to safely managed sanitation. It is based a study conducted in Babati Town Council in Tanzania. Using a smartphone-based survey tool, we trained city health officers to mapped 17,383 housing units in the town. A housing unit may comprise of two or more households. The findings show that 5% practice open defecation, while 82% of the housing units have some forms of sanitation. Despite the extensive coverage, only 31% of the faecal sludge generated is safely contained, while 64% is not. This study demonstrates the possibility of using simple survey tools to collect reliable data for monitoring progress towards safely managed sanitation in the towns of global south.
Globalization of Russian Cities: Towards a Construction of Large Urban Regions
Authors: Rogov Mikhail , Rozenblat Céline
Published: August 2019

This study explores how to delineate Russian cities in order to make them comparable on the world scale. In doing so we introduce the concept of large urban regions (LUR) applicable to the Russian urban context. This research is motivated by a principal research question: how to construct a statistical urban delineation, which would allow first, to demonstrate integration of cities into globalization, and second, to make global urban comparative research. Previous studies on urban delineation in Russia have focused almost exclusively on functional urban areas, which have substantial limitations and are not suitable for global urban comparisons. Addressing this research gap, we propose a new definition of Large Urban Regions (LUR). In doing so, first, we introduce the context of Russian cities (2), then we discuss existing Russian urban concepts (3), and justify a need for a new urban delineation (4). Afterwards, we present a general method to delineate Large Urban Regions in Russian context (5.1), and illustrate it in the two case studies of St. Petersburg (polycentric region) and Samara (monocentric region) (5.2). In the last part (6), we discuss the 10 the largest urban regions in Russia and describe a constructed database including all Russian LURs.
Emergency Service Provision using a Novel Hybrid SOM-Spiral STC Model for Group Decision Support Under Dynamic Uncertainty
Authors: Pham Hai Van , Moore Philip
Published: August 2019

In emergency scenarios service vehicles must identify potential route(s) and use the best available route. However, route identification requires intelligent decision-support systems which generally use non-traditional approaches with tools characterised by flexible non-hierarchical structures. Conventional models using group decision-support systems have been applied; however, when used in smart urban environments, emergency response services have limitations in their ability to identify unobstructed paths (routes) in dynamic operating environments. In this paper we introduce a novel path planning method for autonomous vehicle control in emergency situations. The proposed model uses self-organizing maps in an integrated Spiral STC algorithm termed the: Hybrid SOM-Spiral STC model which uses hedge algebras and \emph{Kansei} evaluation in group decision-support. The proposed model has been designed to quantify qualitative factors using sensor derived data processed with human sensibilities and preferences in emergency decision support. The experimental results show that the proposed model achieves significant improvements in group decision-support under dynamic uncertainty. We posit that our novel approach holds the prospect of improvements in the provision of emergency services.
Experimental Analysis of Liter of Night light for Potential Use in Rural Electrification
Authors: Degife Wubishet , Bogale Wondwossen
Published: August 2019

More than 1.1 billion people lack access to electricity in the world, among them 600 million are in sub-Saharan African countries. The socio-economic life of the rural communities is highly affected by electricity supply. The demanding Interest for growth and development in developing countries led to a renewed interest in solar lights. Liter of the night light is a solar-powered light that is constructed from waste plastic bottles which light up the rural community. This paper is about experimental analysis of liter of night light for potential use in rural electrification. The technology uses environmentally friendly and locally available materials. The system is provided with battery storage, which allows it to operate for 13.5 hours continuously at full charge. Solar radiation is converted by PV solar panel to electric current. Circuit board is developed and fabricated to regulate and deliver a consumable amount of voltage by the rechargeable lead-acid battery. After testing five different solutions, the study found out that vinegar solution as the optimal solutions for the technology that can deliver 27lux of light to the surrounding. Simultaneously the study found out, that the light that is emitted from the bottle bulb is a function of volume, depth and solution type. And for this relationship curves are developed. And, the technology can be used for rural communities as it is.
Isolation, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Profiling of Bacteria Found on Thika Level 5 Hospital Surfaces, Kenya
Authors: Nyaruaba Raphael , Mwaliko Caroline , Wangari Ngugi Caroline
Published: August 2019

Multiple studies have shown that hospital settings are poorly cleaned during terminal cleaning. The adequacy of these cleaning methods has been undermined by presence of multi drug resistant bacteria on hospital surfaces. This case is even more serious in developing countries leading to health care- associated infections that pose a great threat to patients, visitors and health care providers in hospital settings.This study used various microbiological techniques to test for antibiotic susceptibility profiles of bacteria present at Thika Level 5 Hospital surfaces, Kenya. A simple random cross sectional study was performed, with a total of 85 samples being collected from five different sites. The sites included male and female wards, health care personnel offices, latrine, and kitchen surfaces. Samples were collected using sterile swabs, dipped in normal saline, and transported to the laboratory within 2Hours for processing.Of the 85 plates cultured, 47 plates showed bacterial growth (55%) on selective media with a significant P value of 0.0357. Seven different species of bacteria were identified biochemically from all sites, Escherichia coli was the most abundant species (28%), and the least was Salmonella typhii (5%). Multiple drug resistance was common in the different bacteria identified. All isolates were resistant to chloramphenical and susceptible to gentamycin. The most resistant microorganism was Staphylococcus aureus (50%), and the least resistant microorganism was Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.5%). The antimicrobial resistant bacterial species identified in this study have been documented to cause serious health care associated infections. These results present a significant public health concern because there is a possibility of patients, staff and visitors contacting nosocomial infections when they come into contact with surfaces at Thika Level 5 Hospital surfaces, Kenya.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Crystal Structure Determination of a New Lithium Zinc Iodate Polymorph LiZn(IO3)3
Authors: Hebboul Zoulikha , Galez Christine , Benbertal Djamal , Beauquis Sandrine , Mugnier Yannick , Benmakhlouf Abdelnour , Bouchenafa Mohamed , Errandonea Daniel
Published: August 2019

Synthesis and characterization of anhydrous LiZn(IO3)3 powders prepared from an aqueous solution are reported. Morphological and compositional analyses were carried out by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray measurements. The synthesized powders exhibit a needle-like morphology after annealing at 400°C. A crystal structure for the synthesized compound has been proposed from powder X-ray diffraction and density-functional theory calculations. Rietveld refinements led to a monoclinic structure, which can be described with space group P21, number 4, and unit-cell parameters a = 21.874(9) Å, b = 5.171(2) Å, c = 5.433(2) Å, and beta = 120.93(4)º. Density-functional theory calculations supported the same crystal structure. Infrared spectra were also collected and the vibrations associated to the different modes discussed. The non-centrosymmetric space group determined for this new polymorph of LiZn(IO3)3, the characteristics of its infrared absorption spectrum, and the observed second harmonic generation suggest a promising infrared non-linear optical material.
Odontoid Fractures
Authors: Goz Vadim , Spiker William Ryan , Lawrence Brandon , Brodke Darrel , Spina Nicholas
Published: August 2019

» Odontoid fractures are common cervical spine fractures with a bimodal age distribution, which is gradually shifting to more representation in the elderly population.

» Type-II odontoid fractures are associated with higher nonunion rates compared with Type I and Type III.

» A surgical procedure for Type-II fractures in the elderly population is associated with a higher union rate and potentially less mortality.

» Certain Type-II fractures can be treated nonoperatively, depending on fracture morphology and displacement.

» Type-I and III fractures can typically be treated nonoperatively.
A Century of Perspectives that Influenced the Consideration of Technology
as a Critical Component of STEM Education in the United States

Authors: Snyder Mark
Published: August 2019

Technology and engineering education is recognized as a way to integrate
disciplines, such as math and science, using hands-on learning activities to solve
problems. Doing so helps students become technologically literate and work productively
in society. Historically, many different views evolved regarding the need for
instruction related to technology and technical processes. Numerous systems and methods
were devised to achieve this goal in the United States. During the early part of the
20th century, a number of education professionals theorized about the implications of
technology as it related to the study of industry.
These leaders eventually
declared technology as integral to their field. Especially during the period of economic
growth that followed World War II, many considered the study of technology, and the
man-made world, a vital concern in the curriculum of industrial education. Increased
foreign competition, characterized by events such as the launching of the first Soviet
“Sputnik,” resulted in private support and government initiatives for improvement in
education, particularly math and science, but eventually in other content areas,
including industrial education.
In the 21st century, the study and integration of
technology is accepted as a key component in the Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics (STEM) movement. Familiarity with the evolution of general education related
to technology in the United States helps us understand the rationale behind the
inclusion of technology in the STEM acronym. This historical review identifies key
perspectives and practices that led to the inception of technology education at the end
of the 20th century – which, in turn, contributed to the integrated STEM movement. But
what is the impetus for including “technology” in STEM education? What is the role of
technology and engineering in STEM education?
Quality Appraisal of Groundwater in Arid Regions Using Probabilistic and Deterministic Approaches
Authors: Ebrahimi Milad , Kazemi Hamidreza , Ehteshami Majid , Rockaway Thomas D.
Published: August 2019

This study explores using probabilistic and deterministic approaches for evaluating the quality of groundwater resources. The proposed methodology first used the probabilistic approach, which included multivariate statistical analysis, to classify the groundwater's physiochemical characteristics. Then, building on the obtained results, the deterministic approach, which included hydrochemistry analyses, was applied for comprehensive assessment of groundwater quality for different applications. To present this multidisciplinary approach, a basin located in an arid region was studied. Considering the results from correlation and principal component analyses, along with hierarchical Q-mode cluster analysis, chloride salts dissolution was identified within the aquifer. Further application of the deterministic approach revealed degradation of groundwater quality throughout the basin, possibly due to the saltwater intrusion. By developing the water quality index and a multi-hazard risk assessment methodology, the suitability of groundwater for human consumption and irrigation purposes was assessed. The obtained results were compared with two other studies conducted on aquifers under similar arid climate conditions. This comparison indicated that quality of groundwater resources within arid regions is prone to degradation from salinization. The combined consideration of probabilistic and deterministic approaches provided an effective means for comprehensive evaluation of groundwater quality across different aquifers or within one.
High-Frequency At-Bit Measurements Provide New Insights Into Torsional Dynamics When Drilling With Steerable Mud Motors in Unconventional Horizontal Wells
Authors: Wilson J. K. , Whitacre T.. , Heisig G..
Published: August 2019

New insights into torsional bottomhole-assembly (BHA) dynamics have been gained from high–frequency at–bit measurements when drilling with steerable mud motors in horizontal wells. Steerable mud motors are traditionally thought to decouple the bit from “sticking” as the BHA and drillstring are subject to torsional fluctuations. However, newly gathered data show that the bit can actually come to a complete stop while the motor is forced into the backward rotation. Motor twistoffs and back–offs while drilling can be the costly consequence of such behavior.

Using high–frequency, at–bit measurements, dynamic and environmental characteristics of the bit were recorded in a dedicated bit sub at 200 Hz while drilling a horizontal well in the Granite Wash Formation in the Texas Panhandle. The recorded variables include azimuthal gamma, triaxial accelerations, inclination, revolutions per minute (RPM), and temperature. Recorded data were examined after each interval drilled, and correlated with standard measurement–while–drilling (MWD) data (measured and recorded above the motor), as well as surface–recorded variables.

Examination of the data revealed that the bit experienced full stick/slip behavior and, instead of being decoupled from the BHA as is traditionally thought, drove the BHA into backward rotation by means of the action of the mud motor's power section. It is believed that, owing to the tortuosity of the wellbore and the relative hardness of the formation being drilled, the lower end of the motor periodically “caught” and was hung up while rotating such that the negative–driving torque generated in the power section (during the “bit–stick” intervals) loosened the connections below the motor's power section and ultimately led to back–offs of the connections downhole.

This new high–frequency at–bit measurement tool has led to clear insights into the stick/slip behavior while drilling horizontal wells with steerable mud motors. Because this new understanding contradicts the traditional thinking of torsional oscillations in motor BHAs, the authors believe it is worth sharing with the industry because it can help prevent nonproductive time related to this mechanism in the future.
The dishwasher rubber seal acts as a reservoir of bacteria in the home environment
Authors: Zupančič Jerneja , Turk Martina , Črnigoj Miha , Avguštin Jerneja Ambrožič , Gunde-Cimerman Nina
Published: August 2019

Bacteria that colonise the extreme environment of household dishwasher rubber seals were investigated using cultivation-dependent and metagenomic approaches. All 30 dishwashers investigated were colonised by various bacteria. Cultivation approaches resulted in 632 bacterial isolates in total, belonging to four phyla, eight classes, 40 genera and 74 species. The majority were Gram-positive, as solely Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. Bacilli represented half of the Gram-positive isolates, and were dominated by the Bacillus cereus group. Gammaproteobacteria were primarily represented by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. All isolates were tested for resistance to seven selected antibiotics. Metagenomic assessment of the bacterial biodiversity of the dishwasher rubber seals confirmed the predominance of Gram-positive bacteria, as primarily Actinobacteria dominated by Gordonia, followed by Proteobacteria dominated by Gammaproteobacteria, and by pathogenic species such as Escherichia sp., Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas sp., Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Enterobacter sp.. Metagenomic assessment of bacterial biodiversity in the tap water connected to dishwashers revealed predominance of Gram-negative bacteria, and in particular Proteobacteria, dominated by Betaproteobacteria, mainly represented by Tepidimonas sp.. Both Actinobacteria and Firmicutes showed low numbers, while there were markedly more Alphaproteobacteria and Betaproteobacteria in the tap water. These data indicate that colonisation of dishwasher rubber seals depends primarily on the bacterial input from the dirty vessels, and much less on the bacteria in the tap water.
Identifying safety factors and patterns of bicycle trauma in a tertiary level 1 trauma center in Boston, Massachusetts
Authors: Yeung Caleb Matthew , Walley Kempland C. , Fischer Christopher M. , Rodriguez Edward K.
Published: August 2019

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
MicroRNA Expression Profiles Analysis in Sperm Reveals hsa-mir-191 is an Auspicious Omen of in Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Xu Hua , Wang Xin , Wang Zhikai , Li Jianhui , Xu Zhiming , Miao Maohua , Chen Guowu , Lei Xiangdong , Wu Jun , Shi Huijuan , Wang Ke , Zhang Tiancheng , Sun Xiaoxi
Published: August 2019

Background: MicroRNAs(miRNAs) are a class of non-coding small RNAs, which play important roles in many physiological processes by regulating gene expression. Previously studies show that the expression level of total miRNAs increased during the progression of mouse embryonic development, and some miRNAs control the regulatory network in the development progression. However, there are few studies focused on effects of miRNA on the early human embryonic development. The relationship of between miRNAs and early human embryogenesis is still unknown.

Results

In this study, 102 male sperm samples that were treated with assisted reproductive technology but with normal sperm index were collected for small RNA sequencing, and the relationships between differentially expressed small RNA and fertilization rate, blastocyst rate and high-quality embryo rate were analyzed. The results showed that the sperm samples with high expression of hsa-mir-191 had higher fertilization rate, blastocyst rate and high-quality embryo rate. Using hsa-mir-191 as a single indicator to predict high-quality embryo rate, the ROC curve has an AUC of 0.686. At the same time, we also found that the expression of hsa-mir-191 has a certain correlation with sperm abnormality rate (cor = 0.29, p< 0.01). In addition, we also evaluated the relationship between hsa-mir-34c and human early embryo development in these 102 sperm samples, and obtained negative results.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that higher hsa-mir-191-5p expression with better human early embryonic development, and indicate that the hsa-mir-191-5p could be a potential marker to access the quality of IVF.
Transcriptional regulation of photosynthesis under heat stress in poplar
Authors: Zhao Yiyang , Xie Jianbo , Xu Weijie , Chen Sisi , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Zhang Deqiang
Published: August 2019

Background

Photosynthesis has been recognized as a complicated process that is modulated through the intricate regulating network at transcriptional level. However, its underlying mechanism at molecular level under heat stress remains to be understood. Analysis of the adaptive response and regulatory networks of trees to heat stress will expand our understanding of thermostability in perennial plants. In this study, we used a multi-gene network to investigate the regulatory pathway under heat stress, as constructed by a multifaceted approach of combining time-course RNA-seq, regulatory motif enrichment, and expression-trait association analysis.

Results

By analyzing changes in the transcriptome under heat stress, we identified 77 key photosynthetic genes, of which 97.4% (75 genes) were down-regulated, and these results conformed to the decreased photosynthesis measured values. According to analysis of regulating motif enrichment, these 77 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) had common vital light-responsive elements involved in photosynthesis. When integrating all the differential expressed genes, 5 co-expressed gene modules (1,548 genes) were identified to be significantly correlated with 4 photosynthesis-related traits. Thus, based on this, a three-layered gene regulatory network (GRN) was established, which had included 77 photosynthetic genes (in the bottom layer), 40 TFs/miRNAs (in the second layer), as well as 20 TFs/miRNAs (in the top layer), using a backward elimination random forest (BWERF) algorithm. Importantly, 6 miRNAs and 4 TFs were found to be key regulators in this regulatory pathway, emphasizing the significant roles of TFs/miRNAs in affecting photosynthetic traits. The results imply a functional role for these key genes in mediating photosynthesis under heat stress, demonstrating the potential of combining time-course transcriptome-based regulatory pathway construction, cis-elements enrichment analysis, and expression-trait association approaches to dissect complex genetic networks.

Conclusions

The heat-responsive pathway in regulating photosynthesis is a multi-layered complex network which is co-controlled by TFs and miRNAs. Our work not only imply a functional role for these key genes in mediating photosynthesis responding to abiotic stress in poplar, but demonstrate time-course transcriptome-based regulatory network construction will facilitate further the genetic network and key nodes examining in plants.
Prevalence and phylogenetic analyses of porcine diarrhea associated viruses in Southern China from 2012 to 2018
Authors: Zhang Fanfan , Luo Suxian , Gu Jun , Li Zhiquan , Li Kai , Yuan Weifeng , Ye Yu , Li Hao , Ding Zhen , Song Deping , Tang Yuxin
Published: August 2019

Background
Large-scale outbreaks of severe diarrhea caused by viruses have occurred in pigs in China since late 2010. To investigate the prevalence and genetic evolution of diarrhea-associated viruses responsible for the outbreaks, a total of 2,987 field diarrheal samples from 168 pig farms in five provinces in Southern China during 2012-2018 were collected and tested.

Results
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) was the mostly frequently detected virus with prevalence rates between 50.21 and 62.10% in samples, and 96.43% (162/168) in premises, respectively. Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) was the second prevalent virus with detection rates ranging from 19.62 to 29.19% in samples, and 70.24% (118/168) in premises, respectively. Both transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and porcine rotavirus (PRoV) were detected at low detection rates of < 3% in samples and 10.12% in premises. In the present study, we firstly identified swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) in diarrheal samples of piglets from Fujian province in Southern China and the prevalence rate of SADS-CoV was 10.29% (7/68). Co-infections of these diarrhea-associated viruses were common. The most frequent co-infections observed were PEDV with PDCoV, with an average rate of 12.72% (380/2987, ranging from 8.26% ~ 17.33%). Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the strains of PEDV circulating in Southern China during the last 7 years were G IIa variant PEDVs. The most mutations were present in the collagenase equivalent (COE) and epitope regions of the spike protein of the PEDVs presently circulating in the field. PDCoVs in this area were closely related with Chinese PDCoVs other than the strains from the USA, South Korea, Thailand and Lao's public.

Conclusion
These findings indicated that PEDV, PDCoV, and SADS-CoV were leading etiologic agents; and there were severe mono-infections and co-infections of pathogenic enteric coronaviruses in pigs in Southern China during 2012 -2018 and thus the attention should be paid in order to prevent and control porcine viral diarrhea.
Thirteen Years Trend in the Magnitude of Urolithiasis and Cholelithiasis in Ethiopia: Evidence from Hospital-Based Retrospective Study
Authors: Alelign Tilahun , Debella Asfaw , Tessema Tesfaye Sisay , Petros Beyene
Published: August 2019

Background

Recent studies have reported an increasing prevalence of stone diseases (urolithiasis and cholelithiasis) worldwide. However, studies that evaluate the occurrence of stone diseases in Ethiopia are scarce. The objective of this study was to determine trends in the incidence of stone diseases, and the associated comorbidities in Ethiopia during the last 13 years.

Methods

Thirteen years retrospective data were collected from medical records (Log Books and Electronic Databases) at St. Paulos Tertiary Referral Hospital, September 2005/2006 to 2017/2018. A total of 32,370 surgically treated patients were included in the study. Open surgical treatments related to stone diseases were identified via a thorough review of patient medical records. Data were analyzed using Graph Pad Prism 6 Software. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Stone diseases were found in 4044 (12.5%) patients. Of which, the prevalence of urolithiasis was 2.3%, whereas gallstones were 10.2%. In the last 13 years, the trend in stone prevalence has increased by 10.8% from year 2005/6 (6.4%) to 2017/18 (17.2%). The prevalence of stone diseases was found to be higher in females (72.7%) than in males (27.3%). In the case of gallstones, the ratio of females to males was 11.2:1, whereas urinary stones occurred equally in both sexes. The mean age at which the stones occurred was 42 years, and most cases (51.5%) were prevalent between 30 and 49 years of age. The majority of gallstone patients (65.2%) were asymptomatic, and most urolithiatic cases (46.5%) were located in the kidneys. Comorbidities associated with urolithiasis were the reduction in urinary output, and benign prostatic hyperplasia, whereas hernia and diabetes mellitus were associated with gallstones (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of urolithiasis and gallstones has been increasing over the past 13 years in patients reporting to a referral hospital from different parts of Ethiopia. These findings will raise the awareness of attending physicians and policy makers for prompt treatment interventions and to institute possible prevention measures to minimize stone recurrences. Moreover, research on alternative traditional medicinal treatment must be conducted since there are wide claims in Ethiopian folk medicine about curing stone diseases.
Evaluation of confounding in epidemiologic studies assessing alcohol consumption on the risk of ischemic heart disease: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Wallach Joshua D , Serghiou Stylianos , Chu Lingzhi , Egilman Alexander C , Vasiliou Vasilis , Ross Joseph S , Ioannidis John PA
Published: August 2019

Background: Among different investigators studying the same exposures and outcomes, there may be a lack of consensus about potential confounders that should be considered as matching, adjustment, or stratification variables in observational studies. Concerns have been raised that confounding factors may affect the results obtained for the alcohol-ischemic heart disease relationship, as well as their consistency and reproducibility across different studies. Therefore, we assessed how confounders are defined, operationalized, and discussed across individual studies evaluating alcohol and ischemic heart disease risk.

Methods: For observational studies included in a recent alcohol-ischemic heart disease meta-analysis, we identified all variables adjusted, matched, or stratified for in the largest reported multivariate model (i.e. potential confounders). We recorded how the variables were measured and grouped them into higher-level confounder domains. Abstracts and Discussion sections were then assessed to determine whether authors considered confounding when interpreting their study findings.

Results: 85 of 87 (97.7%) studies reported multivariate analyses for an alcohol-ischemic heart disease relationship. The most common higher-level confounder domains included were smoking (79, 92.9%), age (74, 87.1%), and BMI, height, and/or weight (57, 67.1%). However, no two models adjusted, matched, or stratified for the same higher-level confounder domains. Most (74/87, 85.1%) articles mentioned or alluded to “confounding” in their Abstract or Discussion sections, but only one stated that their main findings were likely to be affected by residual confounding. There were five (5/87, 5.7%) authors that explicitly asked for caution when interpreting results.

Conclusion: There is large variation in the confounders considered across observational studies evaluating alcohol and ischemic heart disease risk and almost all studies spuriously ignore or eventually dismiss confounding in their conclusions. Given that study results and interpretations may be affected by the mix of potential confounders included within multivariate models, efforts are necessary to standardize approaches for selecting and accounting for confounders in observational studies.
A mutation in the filamin c gene causes myofibrillar myopathy with lower motor neuron syndrome: a case report
Authors: Chen Juanjuan , Wu Jun , Han ChunXi , Li Yao , Guo Yuzu , Tong Xiaoxin
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Background: Myofibrillar myopathies (MFMs) are a genetically heterogeneous group of muscle disorders. Mutations in the filamin C gene (FLNC) have previously been identified in patients with MFM. The phenotypes of FLNC-related MFM are heterogeneous.
Case presentation: The patient was a 37-year-old male who first experienced weakness in the distal muscles of his hand, which eventually spread to the lower limbs and proximal muscles. Serum creatine kinase levels were moderately elevated. Obvious neuropathic changes in the electromyographic exam and edema changes in lower distal limb magnetic resonance imaging were observed. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of abnormal protein aggregates and angular atrophy in some muscle fibers. Ultrastructural analysis showed inordinate myofibrillar structures and dissolved myofilaments. DNA sequencing analysis detected a heterozygous missense mutation (c.7123G>A, p.V2375I) in the immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domain 21 of FLNC.
Conclusions: FLNC mutation c.7123G>A, p.V2375I in the immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domain 21 can be associated with distal myopathy with typical MFM features and lower motor neuron syndrome. Although electromyographic examination of our patient showed obvious neuropathic changes, MFM could not be excluded. Therefore, genetic testing is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.
Key words: Filamin C gene, Myofibrillar myopathy, Distal myopathy, Missense mutation, Lower motor neuron
O Correio como braço logístico do Estado: a execução de políticas públicas por meio da rede de agências postais no território brasileiro
Authors: Venceslau Igor
Published: August 2019

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de revelar como a capilaridade de agências postais no território brasileiro e o serviço de logística dos Correios se tornaram fundamentais para a execução de políticas públicas. Sustenta-se a ideia do correio como um braço logístico do Estado, atualizando a sua relevância como um serviço público. A partir da instalação de fixos geográficos em todos os municípios, os Correios agem como um braço logístico do Estado. Dentre essas políticas públicas, destacam-se: o planejamento e ordenamento territorial urbano, o Banco Postal, a distribuição de vacinas, a distribuição de livros didáticos e logística dos materiais dos exames nacionais de educação, a emissão de documentos, a distribuição de donativos. Por fim, evocou-se a ideia de modelo cívico do território para problematizar a relação entre Estado, logística e cidadania na contemporaneidade.
The influence of cluster policy on the Russian economy
Authors: Magomedova Asiiat Magomedgadzhievna
Published: August 2019

In this article the development of cluster policy in Russia has been analyzed. Objective of the article is to identify theoretical, methodological aspects and practical recommendations on the formation of clusters, as well as an assessment of their effectiveness.
A pedagogia, a formação humana e o sujeito narcísico pós-moderno
Authors: Lopes de Lima João Francisco
Published: August 2019

Esse estudo, de caráter bibliográfico, considera o tema da subjetividade na Pós-modernidade e analisa o seu impacto para a formulação de enunciados sobre formação humana pela pedagogia. Numa primeira parte, o texto analisa a subjetividade universal como premissa moderna e como essa noção se altera no cenário pós-moderno. Em seguida, caracteriza a subjetividade narcísica, a partir da construção de Gilles Lipovetsky sobre a ideia de sujeito narcísico, e sobre a noção de era do vazio, além de outros autores que tratam sobre o tema do sujeito, do narcisismo e da educação em tempos de Pós-modernidade. Por fim, considera-se a absorção e o impacto da noção de sujeito privatizado na formulação de discursos pedagógicos gerados ou recriados no cenário pós-moderno. O texto destaca o papel da escola como instância de prática da vida pública e oportunidade para o aprendizado de formas de pensamento descentrado e de sujeitos mais fortalecidos em autonomia e capacidade de vida coletiva.
ADHD with Comorbid Bipolar Disorders: A Systematic Review of Neurobiological, Clinical and Pharmacological Aspects Across the Lifespan
Authors: Mucci Federico , Avella Maria Teresa , Marazziti Donatella
Published: August 2019

Background:

Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, disruptive behaviour, and impulsivity. Despite considered typical of children for a long time, the persistence of ADHD symptoms in adulthood gained increasing interest during the last decades. Indeed, its diagnosis, albeit controversial, is rarely carried out even because ADHD is often comorbid with several other psychiatric diosrders, in particular with bipolar disorders (BDs), a condition that complicates the clinical picture, assessment and treatment.

Aims:

The aim of this paper was to systematically review the scientific literature on the neurobiological, clinical features and current pharmacological management of ADHD comorbid with BDs across the entire lifespan, with a major focus on the adulthood.

Discussion:

The pharmacology of ADHD-BD in adults is still empirical and influenced by the individual experience of the clinicians. Stimulants are endowed of a prompt efficacy and safety, whilst non-stimulants are useful when a substance abuse history is detected, although they require some weeks in order to be fully effective. In any case, an in-depth diagnostic and clinical evaluation of the single individual is mandatory.

Conclusions:

The comorbidity of ADHD with BD is still a controversial matter, as it is the notion of adult ADHD as a distinct nosological category. Indeed, some findings highlighted the presence of common neurobiological mechanisms and overlapping clinical features, although disagreement does exist. In any case, while expecting to disentangle this crucial question, a correct management of this comorbidity is essential, which requires the co-administration of mood stabilizers. Further controlled clinical studies in large samples of adult ADHD-BD patients appear extremely urgent in order to better define possible therapeutic guidelines, as well as alternative approaches for this potentially invalidating condition.
What Does the Future Hold for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis?
Authors: Doumas Michael , Imprialos Konstantinos , Stavropoulos Konstantinos , Athyros Vasilios G.
Published: August 2019

:

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), the most common liver disease, is characterized by accumulation
of fat (>5% of the liver tissue), in the absence of alcohol abuse or other chronic liver diseases. Its prevalence is increasing
because of obesity, metabolic syndrome or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). NAFLD can cause liver inflammation
and progress to Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis or Hepatocellular Cancer (HCC). Nevertheless,
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in NAFLD/NASH patients.
Current guidelines suggest the use of pioglitazone both in patients with T2DM and in those without.

:

The newer antidiabetic drugs such as Glucagon Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RA), Sodium-Glucose co-
Transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), and statins plus ezetimibe, are considered safe by the guidelines, and may have a beneficial
effect on NAFLD/NASH as well as Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality.

:

Future drugs seem to have a potential for holding down the evolution of NAFLD and reduce liver- and CVD-related morbidity
and mortality, but they will take some years to be approved for routine use.

:

Until then pioglitazone, GLP-1 RA, SGLT2i, and statins plus ezetimibe, especially in combination might be useful for
treating the huge number of patients with NAFLD/NASH.
Technologies for Opioid Use Disorder Management: Mobile App Search and Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Nuamah Joseph , Mehta Ranjana , Sasangohar Farzan
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Advances in technology engender the investigation of technological solutions to opioid use disorder (OUD). However, in comparison to chronic disease management, the application of mobile health (mHealth) to OUD has been limited.

OBJECTIVE

The overarching aim of our research was to design OUD management technologies that utilize wearable sensors to provide continuous monitoring capabilities. The objectives of this study were to (1) document the currently available opioid-related mHealth apps, (2) review past and existing technology solutions that address OUD, and (3) discuss opportunities for technological withdrawal management solutions.

METHODS

We used a two-phase parallel search approach: (1) an app search to determine the availability of opioid-related mHealth apps and (2) a scoping review of relevant literature to identify relevant technologies and mHealth apps used to address OUD.

RESULTS

The app search revealed a steady rise in app development, with most apps being clinician-facing. Most of the apps were designed to aid in opioid dose conversion. Despite the availability of these apps, the scoping review found no study that investigated the efficacy of mHealth apps to address OUD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight a general gap in technological solutions of OUD management and the potential for mHealth apps and wearable sensors to address OUD.
Mobile App to Improve House Officers’ Adherence to Advanced Cardiac Life Support Guidelines: Quality Improvement Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hejjaji Vittal , Malik Ali O , Peri-Okonny Poghni A , Thomas Merrill , Tang Yuanyuan , Wooldridge David , Spertus John A , Chan Paul S
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Effective and timely delivery of cardiac arrest interventions during in-hospital cardiac arrest resuscitation is associated with greater survival. Whether a mobile app that provides timely reminders of critical interventions improves adherence to Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) guidelines among house officers, who may lack experience in leading resuscitations, remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a commercially available, dynamic mobile app on house officers’ adherence to ACLS guidelines.

METHODS

As part of a quality improvement initiative, internal medicine house officers were invited to participate and randomized to lead 2 consecutive cardiac arrest simulations, one with a novel mobile app and one without a novel mobile app. All simulations included 4 cycles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation with different cardiac arrest rhythms and were video recorded. The coprimary end points were chest compression fraction and number of correct interventions in each simulation. The secondary end point was incorrect interventions, defined as interventions not indicated by the 2015 ACLS guidelines. Paired t tests compared performance with and without the mobile app.

RESULTS

Among 53 house officers, 26 house officers were randomized to lead the first simulation with the mobile app, and 27 house officers were randomized to do so without the app. Use of the mobile app was associated with a higher number of correct ACLS interventions (out of 7; mean 6.2 vs 5.1; absolute difference 1.1 [95% CI 0.6 to 1.6]; P<.001) as well as fewer incorrect ACLS interventions (mean 0.3 vs 1.0; absolute difference –0.7 [95% CI –0.3 to –1.0]; P<.001). Simulations with the mobile app also had a marginally higher chest compression fraction (mean 90.9% vs 89.0%; absolute difference 1.9% [95% CI 0.6% to 3.4%]; P=.007).

CONCLUSIONS

This proof-of-concept study suggests that this novel mobile app may improve adherence to ACLS protocols, but its effectiveness on survival in real-world resuscitations remains unknown.
Uma análise espacial da vulnerabilidade social em Alagoas: evidências sobre as mulheres e crianças
Authors: Souza Maria Isabel , Teixeira Keuler Hissa
Published: August 2019

Este trabalho analisou a configuração espacial dos indicadores de vulnerabilidade social relacionados às mulheres e crianças dos municípios alagoanos entre 2000 e 2010. A análise deu-se por meio de dados disponibilizados pelo Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento (PNUD). Para tanto, foi utilizada a metodologia de análise exploratória de dados espaciais. Os resultados alcançados demonstraram presença de autocorrelação espacial, ou seja, há um certo grau de similaridade entre os municípios com alto ou baixo desempenho das variáveis analisadas.