bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of amino acid infusion on perioperative thermoregulation in newborn surgery
Authors: OKUMUŞ Mustafa , SALMAN Faik Tansu
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Decreased drug metabolism, coagulation disorders, wound infections, and cardiac arrhythmias are the most important and well-known results of intraoperative hypothermia. Perioperative amino acid infusion is known to prevent intraoperative hypothermia during general anesthesia in adults. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the effect of perioperative amino acid infusion on the prevention of hypothermia during general anesthesia in newborn surgery. Methods: Twenty surgical newborns, aged 1-30 days, were enrolled in this prospective randomized controlled study. Newborns were assigned randomly into two groups: the amino acid/dextrose (AAD) group and the dextrose (D) group. The core temperatures of the newborns were measured from the distal esophagus in the first minute of the induction once and every fifteen minutes thereafter. The core body temperature changes in each group during the operation and the differences between the two groups were analyzed. Results: The surgical operations in each group were similar. The mean operating room temperatures of AAD and D groups were 25.4 ± 0.2°C and 25.3 ± 0.3°C, respectively. There were no significant differences in the general characteristics of the two groups. The mean core temperatures began to decrease after the induction of anesthesia in both groups and continued to decrease during the course of the surgery. There was no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions: Hypothermia develops in all neonates when surgical time exceeds one hour, even in warmer ambient temperatures. Although it seems effective in adults, amino acid-induced thermoregulation does not seem effective in newborns during general anesthesia.
Nutrition and Sensory Evaluation of Germinated Cereals and Pseudocereals
Authors: Dlouhá Renáta , Petřeková Karin , Hartman Ivo , Šimek Jaroslav , Hertel Vítězslav
Published: June 2020

Our study is focused on comparison of nutritional, functional and sensory properties of buckwheat (Fagopyrum sagitatum), naked gluten-free oats (Avena sativa), and quinoa – Chilean gooseberry (Chenopodium quinoa). The input material was raw seeds of the mentioned types of cereals and pseudo-cereals, which were subjected to a germination process under defined conditions and subsequently processed into a form of dried groats or flakes. Basic nutritional parameters were determined for samples of non-germinated seeds and final products, supplemented by determination of antioxidant activity. β-Glucans were evaluated in gluten-free naked oats. Their content in the final product decreased by 43.7%, yet it reached favourable values of 2.2 g per 100 g of product. A significant increase in energy content by approximately 6.4–9.2% was found. This increase was influenced by an increase in the carbohydrate content of all final products. As with raw seeds, germinated seeds of the monitored cereals and pseudo-cereals treated by drying have a low content of fats, saturated fatty acids, sugars and they are a good source of protein and fibre. A significant increase in antioxidant activity was observed only in flakes of germinated gluten-free oats. The sensory evaluation of the final products was favourable. On drying, the germinated seeds of the examined samples acquired a brittle structure, which together with the taste was the best evaluated property of the final products. The products represent a new, nutritionally interesting alternative to regular nutrition and gluten-free diets.
“Die van de religie”: protestanten op Grand Tour in Frankrijk in de zeventiende eeuw
Authors: Moss Alan
Published: June 2020

The French Loire valley was one of the main attractions on the Dutch Grand Tour in the 17th century. It had prestigious academies, private tutors of aristocratic skills such as fencing and formal dancing, and religious communities of Huguenots. This article examines how Protestant Dutch elite travellers expressed their interest, empathy, and connection to these groups of like-minded individuals. Travellers reflected both on past events of the 16th-century French Wars of Religion and on current difficulties. Focusing on the years leading up to the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes, which drastically changed France’s religious situation in 1685, this article discusses how travellers presented the Huguenots’ troubles.
Media literacy as a cross-sectoral phenomenon: Media education in Finnish ministerial-level policies
Authors: Palsa Lauri , Salomaa Saara
Published: June 2020

In international comparisons, Finland has often appeared as a frontrunner in promoting media literacy, especially from the perspective of national-level policies and structures. In this study, our aim is to broaden knowledge about the meaning of media education in the Finnish ministerial-level policy framework by examining in which administrative sectors policy documents concerning media education have been published and how the concepts of media education and media literacy have been framed. The results suggest that media education and media literacy are addressed widely across the different administrative sectors in Finland, but mostly by the Ministry of Education and Culture. There is also variance in the ways in which the concepts are presented in the policies. In the article, eight identified frames of media literacy are discussed, including protectionism, cultural participation, future working competences, inclusion, broad media education, democracy, national security, and cosmopolitanism. The article highlights the importance of nuanced understanding of the meanings and limits of media education and research-based policy development.
Atuar-se como um treinamento performativo
Authors: Santos Ronaldo Francisco dos
Published: June 2020

O presente trabalho procura refletir sobre as técnicas de atuação performativa na fronteira entre teatro e performance, a partir da polivalência da metodologia do La Pocha Nostra no treinamento de performers. Através de um mergulho em exercícios de preparação, criação e atuação, durante as oficinas de performance do La Pocha Nostra, foi possível compreender sua didática e observar o duplo exercício de atuação destes artistas presenciais, o ser – ao mesmo tempo - sujeito e objeto de ação, em outras palavras, atuar-se.
Koridor Ekonomi sebagai Jembatan Keterkuncian Geografis: Kasus Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Laos 2000-2010
Authors: Wicaksono Eric
Published: June 2020

Salah satu yang menarik mengenai Laos adalah kapabilitasnya dalam mempertahankan pertumbuhan tinggi di tengah keterkuncian geografis yang melekat padanya. Penelitian ini mengkaji upaya Laos dalam menangani hambatan tersebut dengan melihat perjalanan Laos dan perubahan kebijakan ekonominya, terdapat satu transisi yang menjadi momentum utama kebangkitan perekonomian Laos. Keterbukaan dan tata kelola dinamika kawasan menjadi cara inovatif Laos dalam memecah keterkuncian geografisnya. Didukung oleh kehadiran koridor ekonomi di dalam kawasan yang melingkungi Laos, semakin mengetengahkan peran penting dari keterkuncian yang sempat membawa masa keterpurukan dalam ekonomi Laos. Dari temuan tersebut, penelitian ini menghadirkan pemahaman bahwa kombinasi dari kebijakan ekonomi terbuka, kawasan yang dinamis, dan pengembangan koridor ekonomi integratif, berperan penting di balik keberhasilan Laos dalam mempertahankan pertumbuhan ekonomi yang relatif tinggi di tengah keterkuncian geografis.
BALINESE DAUGHTER AND FEMINIST FATHER IN KOPLAK BY OKA RUSMINI
Authors: Wardani Anindya Kusuma
Published: June 2020

Balinese women and patriarchy are terms which closely related. They commonly appear at the same time. Can this stereotype be negotiated? In the work of Oka Rusmini’s Koplak, this phenomenon is tried to be negotiated. The appearance of women who are living freely from patriarchal culture is shown through the whole book. It makes a new perspective that patriarchy in Bali can be negotiated. The study aims to show that Balinese women are no longer related to the word patriarchy and they can live their life. Using Feminism theory, Koplak will be examined and seen from a feminist perspective. The analysis activity will use a descriptive-qualitative method. There are two results of the study, showing that nowadays Balinese women can live without a burden of patriarchal, even they have their culture. The culture can be negotiated and the appearance of the feminist father shows that the parent’s role in family can help Balinese women being free from patriarchal culture. It also shows that the word feminist is not always given to women.
SEMIOTICS OF STOPPING BY WOODS ON SNOWY EVENING
Authors: Wijianto Agung
Published: June 2020

Poetry is one of the fundamentals in literature. It expresses meaning through words and communicates deeper ideas within it. Robert Frost was one of the most prominent poets of all time. His work Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening was one of his greatest work, it revolves around the beauty of a forest in the winter. On the surface, it may look like a simple straightforward poem; however, it contains a deeper underlying meaning. Semiotics of Poetry written by Riffaterre will be essential in this paper to dissect the poem. There are various concepts that will be applied in the dissecting the poem like indirection, heuristic and hermeneutics reading, matrix, model, variants, and hypogram. This paper seeks to find the deeper understanding of the poem rather than just a surface understanding of it.
INTERNALIZATION OF VALUE EDUCATION IN TEMAJUK-MELANO MALAYSIA BORDER SCHOOL
Authors: Aslan Aslan , Setiawan Agus
Published: June 2020

Social changes in human life make the challenges in the education world greater, like in Temajuk schools. This research used descriptive qualitative method. The results showed that; first, a boundary school in Temajuk was inseparable from the explorations carried out by the Paloh community in 1980; second, value internalization from schools in Temajuk does not play an important role if there is no collaboration among teachers, students and community. Third, obstacles in the education world which were caused by the effects of globalization era does not only give impact in urban areas or developing areas but also the boundary areas in Temajuk
Implementation of Islamic Education Study Program Learning Based on Blended Learning in the Industrial Era 4.0 at IAIN Samarinda
Authors: Setiawan Agus
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to describe 1) how the implementation of blended learning at the State Islamic Institute of Samarinda (IAIN Samarinda), and 2) how students respond to the implementation of blended learning. The research subjects were students in the Islamic Religious Education program at Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training IAIN Samarinda East Kalimantan. The method used was a descriptive qualitative research approach. The technique used observation, interview, and questionnaire instruments. The subjects were 32 students of Islamic Religious Education Program at FTIK IAIN Samarinda. The data analysis was carried out with the model of Miles & Huberman, namely in three steps: data reduction, display and conclusion drawing. The results of this study indicated that 1) students and lecturers are actively involved in the face-to-face learning process and online activities on the e-learning website. These results indicated that a positive potential for education with blended learning innovation is implemented at public Islamic higher education such as IAIN Samarinda.
Prevention of Hypocritical Behavior and Its Perspective in Islamic Education
Authors: Nahar Syamsu
Published: June 2020

Hypocritical behavior needs to be watched out for because it is symptomatic in the community, especially now with access to global relationships without any boundaries of place and time where it is associated through social media, people who are infected with this disease are very difficult to guess, can only be known with certain signs namely: lying, treasonous, broken promises, riya, like to slander and spread lies. The purpose of this study is to explore broadly regarding with detail concept of hypocricy from several vital point of views i.e. from Al-Qur’an, Hadith, and Islamic interpreters. Furthermore, it is also highly urgent to avoid ourselves and teenagers from being a hypocrite. Hence, recognizing signs and characteristics of hypocrites is also crucial in order for us to be more alert toward this issue. Many studies about hypocricy have been conducted by many researchers in various condition including education, politics, and so fort. In this study, hypocracy is also discussed from Islamic education perspective.
al-Manhaj al-Dirasi wal Ithar al-Mafahimi Li i’dad Muallimi al-Lughah al-Arabiyah fi Jamiah Maulana Malik Ibrahim al-Islamiyah al-Khukumiyah Malang
Authors: Mutholib Abdul , Retnanto Agus
Published: June 2020

This research aims to describe the reality of the curriculum of teacher preparation in the Department of Arabic Language Teaching at the Maulana Malik Ibrahim Islamic State University Malang and unveiling the conceptual framework for the preparation of Arabic language teachers in this Department.  The methodology used in this paper is the qualitative case study. The results of this research are that the curriculum for the preparation of teachers in the Department of Arabic Language Teaching at this university is based on competencies based curriculum  and the criterion of the Indonesian national framework for qualifications and the idea of the education of the first kernel, which includes the development of personality and the aspect of pedagogy and research and Arabic language science, to provide students with teaching skills and competencies in the field; and The conceptual framework for the preparation of teachers in this department includes the philosophy and standards of the department, the vision, mission and objectives, the included cognitive rules, specifications for graduates, and the system of evaluation adopted for it. The theoretical conclusion of this research is that the quality of the curriculum for the preparation of teachers depends on the extent of the link between the teacher preparation program and its conceptual framework, and the potential of the institutions of preparation to equip students to translate educational theories into practical teaching in schools.
Diversity and potential distribution of culicids of medical importance of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Authors: Bond J Guillermo , Moo-Llanes David A , Ortega-Morales Aldo I , Marina Carlos F , Casas-Martínez Mauricio , Danis-Lozano Rogelio
Published: June 2020

Objective. To determine the species distribution, abun­dance, and diversity of culicids in the Yucatan Peninsula (YP); their potential distribution, using ecological niche modeling (ENM), and the risk of contact with urban and rural popula­tions. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out through the YP. The diversity of species was determined with the Shannon index. The potential distribution of the culicids was determined through the ENM, as well as the risk of urban and rural populations through contact with vectors. Results. A total of 10 699 specimens, 15 genera and 52 species were registered. Campeche and the Biosphere Reserve of Calakmul exhibited the highest diversity. Con­clusions. The ENM predict a high suitability in all the YP of Ae. aegypti, An. albimanus, An. pseudopuntipennis, Cx. coronator, and Cx. quinquefasciatus. The vector species that exhibited the highest risk of contact in the YP were Cx. quinquefasciatus, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus.
Un enfoque holístico de investigación sobre enfermedades transmitidas por vectores
Authors: Henry Rodríguez Mario
Published: June 2020

No disponible
Comparison of Two SEM-EDX Methods for the Analysis of Produced Water Scale Filter Papers
Authors: Jordan Myles , Buckman Jim
Published: June 2020

Low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy (SEM) / energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis can be used to characterize the nature of inorganic scale from produced water (Method 1); routinely used to visually determine the degree, form and composition of scale particulates. Quantitative data on scale coverage can be extracted through image analysis, and morphology can indicate origins of particulates (transported scale, active scale…). Recent trends demand more detailed quantitative analysis, believed to produce more accurate / reproducible results. Such a method is automated SEM-EDX particle analysis (Method 2). This has the advantage of full automation and delivers quantitative data on scale coverage, composition, shape and size. Neither method is perfect, the first relies on experienced SEM users, is a manual method, susceptible to bias, and is often perceived as producing qualitative data, while the second method although producing large quantitative data sets, depends upon the criteria used to classify particles, and can be time consuming. Both methods were used to examine a number of filtered produced water samples. The traditional manual method provides good representative results on scale coverage, details on particulate morphology and composition, and can be undertaken in about thirty minutes per sample; it is also a simple matter to differentiate between particulate and blanket scale deposits. The second method generates superior levels of quantitative data, but results are dependent on image thresholding (for particle selection), erroneous misleading results are all too easily obtained (unless rigorously tested particle classification schemes are used), and the method can take in excess of an hour per sample. In general Method 1 should be adequate to track scale issues from produced water, which can be supplemented where desired by automated particle analysis (APA). Where APA is to be used it is recommended that an industry standard classification criterion be developed, which will increase the degree of confidence that can be applied to results, and allow direct comparison of results between laboratories.
Scale Prediction and Management for Unconventional Production
Authors: Wang Wei , Wei Wei , Yan Chao
Published: June 2020

Horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing have unlocked tremendous hydrocarbon resources in unconventional reservoirs. Production from unconventional plays has become critical and been prioritized in many E&P companies’ portfolio. This paper presents the uncertainty, challenges, and findings in scale prediction and management in such unconventional production. A brief conceptual model is built and utilized to demonstrate the complexities, stages, and impacts in scale management for unconventional production. While a complete list of factors impacting unconventional scale management are reviewed, our two field case studies are focused on factors/aspects that differentiates unconventional fields from conventional fields in terms of scale management. In the first case study, the impact of field fluid residence time on scale inhibitor treatment is investigated and discussed. In the second case study, we conducted extensive field sampling and root cause analysis of the FeS scale formation in an unconventional field and discussed its potential impact and the recommended FeS scale management strategies. This paper demonstrates a comprehensive and integrated approach to appropriately assess and manage scale risk for unconventional horizontal well production, which can be of critical importance to improve reservoir and well performance and improve return on investment (ROI) in unconventional plays.
Squeeze Design Optimization by Considering Operational Constraints, Numerical Simulation and Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Azari Vahid , Vazquez Oscar , Mackay Eric , Sorbie Ken , Jordan Myles , Sutherland Louise
Published: June 2020

The application of chemical scale inhibitors (SI) in a squeeze treatment is one of the most commonly used techniques to prevent downhole scale formation. This paper presents a sensitivity analysis of the treatment design parameters, to assist with the automated optimization of squeeze treatments in single wells in an offshore field.

Two wells were studied with different constraints on total SI neat volume (VSI) and total injected volume (VT) including main pill and overflush volumes, followed by a field case squeeze optimization to demonstrate the sensitivity to lifetime and the cost function per treated volume of water. A purpose-designed squeeze software model was used to simulate the squeeze treatments and perform the sensitivity analysis. In the course of this optimization procedure, a "Pareto Front" is calculated which represents cases that cannot in principle be improved upon. An analysis of these results also shows that this Pareto Front can be generated by a semi-analytical method, as shown for the first time in this paper.

It was demonstrated at fixed values of VSI and VT (resulting in almost a fixed total cost for squeeze), the squeeze lifetime can be improved by increasing the scale inhibitor concentration in the main treatment slug; however, the increase in squeeze lifetime is greatly reduced at very high concentrations. Four generic scale inhibitors were used with different adsorption isotherms to validate these calculations. In cases where either VSI or VT is fixed, it is shown that the squeeze life does not monotonically increase by the other parameter and the cost function can be used to determine the optimum design.

Well squeeze optimization was performed and these recommendations were applied in the field. It was shown that a well-executed sensitivity study can prevent misleading results that miss the global optimum. A lesson learned was that the optimal designs entail injecting as much of the inhibitor as possible as early in the squeeze design as possible - provided formation damage effects are avoided. Also, our semi-analytical construction of the Pareto Front greatly helps to simplify and streamline the overall squeeze optimization process.
Iron Sulfide Scale Inhibition: Limitations at Sour Conditions
Authors: Alduailej Yaser K. , Sorbie Kenneth S.
Published: June 2020

Sour oil and gas production is commonly associated with sulfide scaling challenges originating from the produced aqueous phase. Iron sulfide (FeS) is one of the most common sulfide scales, and recent studies have shown promising dispersant chemicals are available to mitigate its deposition. In addition, successful applications have been reported in the literature, particularly from the North Sea. However, some of the limitations of these FeS chemical dispersants become evident under more severe (high H2S) sour conditions, such as those found in the Middle East, Russia and Canada.

The dispersant efficiency depends on the scale particle size, and larger particle sizes usually require higher dispersant dosages. Other factors that may influence the inhibitor dosage include reactant concentrations (cations and anions), pH, salinity and inhibition time. These factors were investigated using a newly developed anaerobic experimental setup that allows the careful addition and withdrawal of fluids from a closed anoxic system. Anaerobic vessels, such as vials and tubes, are deployed equipped with septa (thin membranes). Syringes were used to infiltrate the septum with minimal interference from sulfide retention while maintaining isolation from atmospheric oxygen.

Testing was performed over a sulfide concentration range from 100 to 1,000 mg/L. Higher levels of sulfide required higher loadings of scale inhibitor, essentially as a result of particle size increase. In addition, varying the salinity also had a significantly influence on the required dispersant concentration to maintain FeS suspension in solution. At lower pH condition, smaller FeS particles were produced and often inhibition was somewhat obscured by solubility effects. Also, suspending the FeS for longer periods of time required higher dispersant concentrations.

More severe sour conditions exceeding 1,000 mg/L of aqueous sulfide, have a detrimental effect on the both the efficiency and economics of the FeS inhibition treatments. In addition, the current high- performance dispersants cannot be squeezed into tight formations or shales, as their high molecular weight may cause severe formation damage. For such applications, alternative inhibition methodologies are required, and non-chemical inhibition may be considered.
Iron Sulfide Scale Inhibition: Squeeze Life Extension Through Improved Interaction Between Scale Inhibitor and Rock
Authors: Petrozziello Lena , Kayser Christoph , Okocha Cyril , Chen Tao , Wang Qiwei
Published: June 2020

Iron sulfide deposition is a ubiquitous phenomenon in sour oil and gas wells and presents unique challenges for its control and management downhole. The majority of current FeS anti-scale chemical technologies tend to be ‘reactive’ rather than ‘proactive’ for downhole scale mitigation, and currently there are few FeS scale inhibitor squeeze options available. The following paper details work performed to modify an existing novel and unique sulfide scale inhibitor to further enhance its sulfide scale inhibition efficacy and to reconfigure the polymer molecule structure for improved adsorption / desorption behavior sufficient to allow squeeze application for control and mitigation of FeS scale downhole.

All new polymeric inhibitor chemistries were tailored for high total dissolved solid (TDS) and high downhole temperature chalk sour gas well application. Further ranking was performed via automated static adsorption tests, iron sulfide efficacy tests and high calcium brine compatibility jar tests to identify the best squeeze applicable candidates for final formation damage coreflood testing.

Introduction of new anchor group functionality into the polymer resulted in improved adsorption behavior (identified via the static adsorption test), while having minimal impact on the inhibitors high TDS / high calcium brine tolerance and also on its FeS scale inhibition performance. The kinetic adsorption study showed > 2 mg inhibitor/g rock adsorption on field analogous chalk rock, which is markedly higher compared to the original parent sulfide inhibitor molecule or other new polymeric variants synthesized without the new anchor groups. FeS scale inhibitor adsorption was further improved by optimizing the ratio of monomer and functional groups on the polymer. Simulated field squeeze coreflood testing revealed no appreciable formation damage to outcrop core analogue under simulated field application conditions and the new variant inhibitor chemicals also showed significant useful adsorption/desorption behaviour.

The new polymeric scale inhibitors are suitable for both continuous injection and squeeze application for control of FeS scale in high temperature and high calcium ion sour gas chalk wells. For squeeze application, testing revealed a low formation damage potential combined with significant chemical retention for potentially extended squeeze lifetime in the field. Ultimately this technology heralds a new era in downhole scale management for sour producer wells plagued by FeS scale via reduction of treatment frequency for assured well integrity.
Experimental Study on Critical Displacement for Drill-Conductor Injection during Deepwater Drilling
Authors: Kan Changbin , Gao Deli , Yang Jin
Published: June 2020

Drill-conductor-jetting technology is a high-efficiency, good-adaptability, and low-cost technology that has been widely applied in deepwater drilling. However, a reaming effect will be produced easily because of jet breaking and bit rotation during the jetting process, and the critical displacement would be notably affected. Also, it will experience a relatively short soaking time after installation because of the requirements of drilling timeliness, which is an important factor on the bearing safety of a conductor. Therefore, it is meaningful to study the influencing factors of construction conditions and establish a model for evaluating the value of critical displacement. In this study, field experiments on critical displacement for simulating the deepwater-drilling conditions were conducted. By analyzing the drilling hydraulic factors, the effects of soil-stress-recovery time, and the injection rate of pipe, the influence laws of different factors were obtained. The results suggest that the critical displacement increases linearly as the circulation rate of the drilling fluid increases, decreases exponentially with the increase of soil-stress-recovery time, and decreases linearly with the increase of injection rate. One model for estimating the critical displacement using experimental data and the least-squares method was proposed. The predictions showed good agreement with experimental data within suitable ranges of models. This work is expected to provide the basis for predicting conductor stability and wellhead-bearing settlement.
Screening and Identification of LncRNAs Related to Villus Growth of Liaoning Cashmere Goats and Their Effects on Growth after FGF5 Treatment
Authors: Jin Mei , Zhao Qin Feng , Ni Ping , Piao Jun , Piao Ai Jing
Published: June 2020

(Background) Liaoning Cashmere Goat cashmere has high economic value FGF5 is an important factor regulating its growth. The role of long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) in the mammalian villus growth cycle has still not been studied in detail.(Results) We demonstrated that treatment of skin cells with FGF5 inhibited the expression of LncRNA in cells, down-regulated the expression of the target genes CBS and CTH, and promoted the expression of related keratin genes k26, kap11.1. Overexpressing LncRNA reversed the inhibiting effect of FGF5 on the target genes CBS and CTH. (Conclusions) we believe that FGF5 can regulate the growth and development of Cashmere Goat hair by promoting the expression of related keratin and keratin-associated protein genes. This mechanism is achieved by inhibiting the expression of the LncRNA gene and then down-regulating the expression of the target genes CBS and CTH.
Geographic Availability To Optometry Services Across Canada: Mapping Distribution, Need And Self-Reported Use
Authors: Shah Tayyab , Milosavljevic Stephan , Bath Brenna
Published: June 2020

Background: This research investigates the distribution of optometrists in Canada relative to population health needs and self-reported use of vision services.Methods: Optometrist locations were gathered from provincial regulatory bodies. Optometrist-to-population ratios (i.e. the number of providers per 10,000 people at the health region level) were then calculated. Utilization of vision care services was extracted from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) 2013-2014 question regarding self-reported contacts with optometrists or ophthalmologists. Data from the 2016 Statistics Canada census were used to create three population ‘need’ subgroups (65 years and over; low-income; and people aged 15 and over with less than a high school diploma). Cross-classification mapping compared optometrist distribution to self-reported use of vision care services in relation to need. Each variable was converted into three classes (i.e., low, moderate, and high) using a standard deviation (SD) classification scheme where ± 0.5SD from the mean was considered as a cut-off. Three classes: low (< -0.5SD), moderate (-0.5 to 0.5SD), and high ( > 0.5SD) were used for demonstrating distribution of each variable across health regions. Results: A total of 5,959 optometrists across ten Canadian provinces were included in this analysis. The nationwide distribution of optometrists is variable across Canada; they are predominantly concentrated in urban areas. The national mean ratio of optometrists was 1.70 optometrists per 10,000 people (range = 0.13 to 2.92). Out of 109 health regions (HRs), 26 were classified as low ratios, 51 HRs were classified as moderate ratios, and 32 HRs were high ratios. Thirty-five HRs were classified as low utilization, 39 HRs were classified as moderate, and 32 HRs as high utilization. HRs with a low optometrist ratio relative to eye care utilization and a high proportion of key sociodemographic characteristics (e.g. older age, low income) are located throughout Canada and identified with maps indicating areas of likely greater need for optometry services.Conclusion: This research provides a nationwide overview of vision care provided by optometrists identifying gaps in geographic availability relative to “supply” and “need” factors. This examination of variation in accessibility to optometric services will be useful to inform workforce planning and policies.
Medical termination for pregnancy in early first trimester (≤ 63 days) using combination of mifepristone and misoprostol or misoprostol alone: a systematic review
Authors: Abubeker Ferid Abbas , Lavelanet Antonella , Rodriguez Maria I. , Kim Caron
Published: June 2020

Background: A wide range of drugs have been studied for first trimester medical abortion. Studies evaluating different regimens, including combination mifepristone and misoprostol and misoprostol alone regimens, show varying results related to safety, efficacy and other outcomes.Objectives: To compare the safety, effectiveness and acceptability of medical abortion and to compare medical methods with surgical methods of abortion ≤ 63 days of gestation. Methods: Pubmed and EMBASE were systematically searched from database inception through January 2019 using a combination of MeSH, keywords and text words. Randomized controlled trials on induced abortion at ≤ 63 days that compared different regimens of medical abortion using mifepristone and/or misoprostol and trials that compared medical with surgical methods of abortion were included. We extracted data into a pre‐designed form, calculated effect estimates, and performed meta‐analyses where possible. The primary outcomes were ongoing pregnancy and successful abortion. Results: Thirty-three studies composed of 22,275 participants were included in this review. Combined regimens using mifepristone and misoprostol had lower rates of ongoing pregnancy and higher rates of successful abortion compared to misoprostol only regimens. In combined regimens, misoprostol 800 μg was more effective than 400 μg. There was no significant difference in dosing intervals between mifepristone and misoprostol and routes of misoprostol administration in combination or misoprostol alone regimens. The rate of serious adverse events was generally low. Conclusion: In this systematic review, we find that medical methods of abortion utilizing combination mifepristone and misoprostol or misoprostol alone are effective, safe and acceptable. More robust studies evaluating both the different combination and misoprostol alone regimens are needed to strengthen existing evidence as well as assess patient perspectives towards a particular regimen.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Amorphophallus albus, a plant species with extremely small populations (PSESP) endemic to dry-hot valley of Jinsha River
Authors: Tang Rong , Liu Erxi , Zhang Yazhou , Schinnerl Johann , Sun Weibang , Chen Gao
Published: June 2020

Background: Amorphophallus albus P. Y. Liu & J. F. Chen (Araceae) is a plant species with extremely small populations (PSESP) and an important economic crop endemic to dry-hot valleys along the Jinsha River. In order to gain information for sustaining the development and conservation of A. albus, we studied the genetic diversity and population structure of this species using microsatellite markers (SSR). In this study, we analysed 364 individuals belonging to 24 populations, including four wild populations and three ex-situ cultivated populations, collected in the provinces Yunnan, Sichuan and Hubei. Results: The population genetic analyses indicated that A. albus possesses moderate genetic diversity with the percentage of polymorphic loci (PPL) from 69.23% to 100%, an expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.504 and an average Shannon's Information Index (I) 0.912. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that most of the variance (71%) resided within populations and the estimated gene flow (Nm) was 0.61. The results of UPGMA cluster tree, STRUCTURE analyses together with the Mantel test (R2 = 0.352, P < 0.01) indicated that geographically closely located populations are clustered together with some exceptions. Conclusions: Our results showed that A. albus still possesses moderate genetic variation in most of the studied populations, and for now, most cultivated populations were naturally distributed but still some reintroduction exists. For sustaining the present genetic variation, some protections measures are necessary for the wild populations and also for the cultivated ones with high genetic diversity.
Effectiveness of a health education intervention on the use of long-lasting insecticidal nets for the prevention of malaria in pregnant women of Pakistan: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Farzeen Midhat , Hafeez Assad , Achakzai Baseer Khan , Vankwani Muskan , Lal Manohar , Iqbal Rabia , Somrongthong Ratana
Published: June 2020

Background About one quarter of pregnant women in the population of Pakistan are using long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) for prevention of malaria. Past research reported that adequate information and education would act as mediator to change behaviour among patients for prevention of malaria infection. The effective use of LLINs would contribute to reduction of disease burden caused by malaria. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of health education on the adoption of LLINs among pregnant women living in Tharparkar, a remote district in Sindh Province, Pakistan.Methods A quasi-experimental study design with control and intervention groups was conducted with 200 pregnant women (100 in each group). Women in the intervention group were provided with health education sessions on malaria for 12 weeks, while those in the control group obtained routine information from lady health workers (LHWs). Pre- and post-intervention assessment was done of knowledge about malaria and use of LLIN, which was statistically analysed using descriptive statistics and difference in difference (DID) multivariable regression analysis to test effectiveness of the intervention.Results Baseline was conducted with 200 pregnant women. Demographic characteristics were similar in both groups with slight differences in age, education, income, type of latrine, and source of drinking water. There were no significant differences between mean knowledge and use of LLINs scores between groups at baseline. However, the estimated DID value after the intervention was 4.170 (p <0.01) and represents an increase in scores of knowledge in the intervention group compared to control. Similarly DID value of 3.360 (p <0.05) showed an increase in use of LLINs score after the intervention which was significant, showing that the intervention had a positive effect.Conclusions Results proved that health education could be an effective intervention for improving knowledge and usage of LLINs among pregnant women for the prevention of malaria. Such educational interventions have a positive potential to be implemented at larger scale by incorporating them into routine health sessions provided by health workers.
Irradiation pretreatment enhances the therapeutic efficacy of platelet-membrane-camouflaged antitumor nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Yin , Shen Xue , Han Songling , Wang Tao , Zhao Jianqi , He Yongwu , Chen Shilei , Deng Shengqi , Wang Cheng , Wang Junping
Published: June 2020

Backgroud: Cell membrane-based nanocarriers are promising candidates for delivering antitumor agents. The employment of a simple and feasible method to improve the tumor-targeting abilities of these systems is appealing for further application. Herein, we prepared a platelet membrane (PM)-camouflaged antitumor nanoparticle. The effects of irradiation pretreatment on tumor targeting of the nanomaterial and on its antitumor action were evaluated. Results: The biomimetic nanomaterial constructed by indocyanine green, poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide), and PM is termed PINPs@PM. A 4-Gy X-ray irradiation increased the proportions of G2/M phase and Caveolin-1 content in 4T1 breast cancer cells, contributing to an endocytic enhancement of PINPs@PM. PINPs@PM produced hyperthermia and reactive oxygen species upon excitation by near-infrared irradiation, which were detrimental to the cytoplasmic lysosome and resulted in cell death. Irradiation pretreatment thus strengthened the antitumor activity of PINPs@PM in vitro. Mice experiments revealed that irradiation enhanced the tumor targeting capability of PINPs@PM in vivo. When the same dose of PINPs@PM was intravenously administered, irradiated mice had a better outcome than did mice without X-ray pretreatment. Conclusion: The study demonstrates an effective strategy combining irradiation pretreatment and PM camouflage to deliver antitumor nanoparticles, which may be instrumental for targeted tumor therapy.
Predictors of hookah smoking frequency among women in the south of Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dadipoor Sakineh , Heyrani Ali , aghamolaei teamur , Ghanbarnejad Amin , Ghaffari Mohtasham , Shahsavari Saeideh
Published: June 2020

Background: The prevalence of hookah smoking (HS) has grown over the past decades in Iran especially in the south of the country. This study aimed to determine the behavioral and socio-demographic predictors of the HS frequency among women in southern Iran. Method: This research was conducted on 400 female hookah smokers selected through multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected from October 2018 to September 2019 using a questionnaire guided by literature. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was run to determine the influential behavioral and socio-demographic predictors involved in the frequency of HS. Variables with a P-value of less than 0.05 in the final fitting model were regarded to be associated with the outcome variable (frequency of HS per day).Results: Women' age ranged between 15 and 85 years (mean=35±13 years). We found that the lowest age of beginning to smoke hookahs (SHs) (p<.001) of less than 15 years, 15-30 years (p=.003), longer duration of HS (p<.001), family usage of HS (p<.001), beginning to SHs with peers (p<.001), absence of either parent in family (single-parent families) (p<.001) and a lack of prior intention to cease smoking (p=. p<.001) predicted the frequency of HS. Also 35-50 age group (p=.01) and those above 50 years (p=.02), ever-married group (p=.002) and low socio-economic status (SES) (p<.001) predicted the frequency of HS.Conclusion: To prevent the behavior and make effective interventions to reduce HS, policy-makers should stay focused on factors other than internal motivations. Encouraging the social unacceptance of hookahs, focus on those surrounding women smokers, quitting the habit of HS and effective interventions to decrease one's intention to SHs can help to reduce such unhealthy behaviors.
Comparison of the effect of rapeseed oil or amaranth seed oil supplementation on weight loss, body composition, and changes in the metabolic profile of obese patients following 3-week body mass reduction program: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Moszak Małgorzata , Zawada Agnieszka , Juchacz Aldona , Grzymisławski Marian , Bogdański Paweł
Published: June 2020

Background: Amaranth seed oil (ASO) and rapeseed oil (RSO) are functional foods that display antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. These oils are also known to lower glucose and cholesterol levels. The current study compared the effects exerted by RSO and ASO on weight loss and metabolic parameters during a 3-week body mass reduction program. Methods: Eighty-one obese subjects (BMI > 30 kg/m2), aged 25-70 years, were enrolled in a 3-week body mass reduction program based on a calorie-restricted diet and physical activity. Participants were randomly categorized into an AO group (administered 20 mL/d of ASO), a RO group (administered 20 mL/d of RSO), and a C group (control; untreated). Anthropometric and metabolic parameters were measured at baseline and endpoint. Results: Significant decreases in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), fat mass (FM), lean body mass (LBM), visceral fat mass (VFM), and total body water (TBW%) were observed in all groups (P < 0.05). No significant improvements were observed in the clinical parameters of group C. Fasting insulin (Δ -5.9, and Δ -5.7) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (Δ -1.1 and Δ -0.5) were decreased in both RO and AO groups, respectively. Fasting glucose (Δ -8.5; P = 0.034), total cholesterol (Δ -14.6; P = 0.032), non-HDL cholesterol (Δ 15.9; P = 0.010), TG/HDL ratio (Δ -0.6; P = 0.032), LDL cholesterol (Δ -12.3; P = 0.042), and triglycerides (Δ -6.5; P = 0.000) were significantly improved in the AO group, compared to the RO group. Conclusions: The 3-week body mass reduction intervention caused a significant reduction in the weight, BMI, WC, HC, FM, and VFM of all groups. Except for HOMA-IR, there were no statistical differences between the clinical parameters of all groups. However, a trend toward improved insulin levels and HDL% was noticeable in AO and RO. Therapies involving edible oils with high nutritional value, such as RSO and ASO, show potential for improving metabolic measurements during body mass reduction programs. Thus, obese patients undertaking weight reduction programs may benefit from RSO and ASO supplementation.
Secular trend in dietary patterns of Iranian adults from 2006 to 2017: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Aghayan Maryam , Asghari Golaleh , Yuzbashian Emad , Mahdavi Maryam , Mirmiran Parvin , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: June 2020

Background

by focusing on nutrition transition in the Middle East and North Africa, this study aim to investigate the general structure and secular trend of dietary patterns extracted from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) and adherence to these dietary patterns among Iranian population from 2006 till 2017.

Methods

We investigated on four examination surveys of TLGS including survey 1 (2006-2008), survey 2 (2009-2011), survey 3 (2012-2014), and survey 4 (2015-2017). The dietary intakes was gathered by a validated and reliable food frequency questionnaire. Generalized Estimating Equations was used to assess secular trends in anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary variables across the study period. To identify general structure and secular trend of dietary patterns during each survey, principle component analysis (PCA) and K-mean cluster analysis were used, respectively.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, body mass index, and total energy intake, the carbohydrate and protein intake gradually increased and the total fat intake decreased during study period (P-value<0.001); however total energy intake remained stable. During the study period, participants consumed notable less refined grain, solid fat, dairy products, and simple sugar. Snack and dessert consumption increased and meat intake had no significant changes during a decade (all P-values<0.001). Three dietary patterns were extracted buy using PCA including: Healthy dietary pattern characterized by higher intake of vegetable, fruit, dairy products, liquid oil, nuts and seeds, and honey and jam, Western dietary pattern featured by refined grain, solid fat, meat, snack and dessert, potato, and soft drink, and the Mixed dietary pattern highlighted by tea and coffee, and simple sugar. Based on cluster analysis, 27.8% of participants in survey 4 followed a Western dietary pattern, and 34.1% followed the Mixed dietary pattern. The Healthy dietary pattern was stable among study population during the last decade.

Conclusions

The structure and the type of foods that population have chosen to eat had changed since 2006. And a new secular trend in dietary patterns including a stability of Healthy dietary pattern, a decline of the Western dietary pattern and an increase in the Mixed dietary pattern was presented in our investigation.