bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of Mycotoxigenic Fusarium Species and Competitive Fungi on Preharvest Maize Ear Rot in Poland
Authors: Gromadzka Karolina , Błaszczyk Lidia , Chełkowski Jerzy , Waśkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: April 2019

Maize has become one of the most important crops for food and feed production—both as a silage and crop residue worldwide. The present study aimed to identify the co-occurrence of Fusarium subglutinans, Fusarium verticillioides, Trichoderma atroviride, Sarocladium zeae, and Lecanicillium lecanii on maize ear rot. Further, the accumulation of mycotoxins as secondary metabolites of Fusarium spp. in maize ear samples was also analyzed. Maize ear samples were collected between 2014 and 2017 from two main maize growing areas in Poland (Greater Poland and Silesia region). A significant difference was found in the frequency of two main Fusarium spp. that infect maize ears, namely F. subglutinans and F. verticillioides. In addition to Fusarium spp. T. atroviride, S. zeae, and L. lecanii were also identified. T. atroviride species was found in 14% of maize samples examined between 2014 and 2017, particularly with a high percentage of Trichoderma spp. recorded in 2014, i.e., in 31% of samples. However, mycotoxin content (beauvericin and fumonisins) varied, depending on both the location and year of sampling. The interaction of fungi and insects inhabiting maize ear and kernel is very complex and not yet elucidated. Therefore, further research is required in this area.
Cosmic Inflation, Quantum Information and the Pioneering Role of John S Bell in Cosmology
Authors: Martin Jérôme
Published: April 2019

According to the theory of cosmic inflation, the large scale structures observed in our Universe (galaxies, clusters of galaxies, Cosmic Background Microwave—CMB—anisotropy…) are of quantum mechanical origin. They are nothing but vacuum fluctuations, stretched to cosmological scales by the cosmic expansion and amplified by gravitational instability. At the end of inflation, these perturbations are placed in a two-mode squeezed state with the strongest squeezing ever produced in Nature (much larger than anything that can be made in the laboratory on Earth). This article studies whether astrophysical observations could unambiguously reveal this quantum origin by borrowing ideas from quantum information theory. It is argued that some of the tools needed to carry out this task have been discussed long ago by J. Bell in a, so far, largely unrecognized contribution. A detailled study of his paper and of the criticisms that have been put forward against his work is presented. Although J. Bell could not have realized it when he wrote his letter since the quantum state of cosmological perturbations was not yet fully characterized at that time, it is also shown that Cosmology and cosmic inflation represent the most interesting frameworks to apply the concepts he investigated. This confirms that cosmic inflation is not only a successful paradigm to understand the early Universe. It is also the only situation in Physics where one crucially needs General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics to derive the predictions of a theory and, where, at the same time, we have high-accuracy data to test these predictions, making inflation a playground of utmost importance to discuss foundational issues in Quantum Mechanics.
Quantifying the Effects of Climate and Vegetation on Soil Moisture in an Arid Area, China
Authors: Wang Yunqian , Yang Jing , Chen Yaning , Fang Gonghuan , Duan Weili , Li Yupeng , De Maeyer Philippe
Published: April 2019

Soil moisture plays a critical role in land-atmosphere interactions. Quantifying the controls on soil moisture is highly valuable for effective management of water resources and climatic adaptation. In this study, we quantified the effects of precipitation, temperature, and vegetation on monthly soil moisture variability in an arid area, China. A non-linear Granger causality framework was applied to examine the causal effects based on multi-decadal reanalysis data records. Results indicate that precipitation had effects on soil moisture in about 91% of the study area and explained up to 40% of soil moisture variability during 1982–2015. Temperature and vegetation explained up to 8.2% and 3.3% of soil moisture variability, respectively. Climatic extremes were responsible for up to 10% of soil moisture variability, and the importance of climatic extremes was low compared to that of the general climate dynamics. The time-lagged analysis shows that the effects of precipitation and temperature on soil moisture were immediate and dissipated shortly. In addition, the effects of precipitation on soil moisture decreased with the increase of precipitation, soil moisture, and elevation. This study provides deep insight for uncovering the drivers of soil moisture variability in arid regions.
Olive Mill Wastewater: From a Pollutant to Green Fuels, Agricultural Water Source, and Bio-Fertilizer. Part 2: Water Recovery
Authors: Dutournié Patrick , Jeguirim Mejdi , Khiari Besma , Goddard Mary-Lorène , Jellali Salah
Published: April 2019

Water shortage is a very concerning issue in the Mediterranean region, menacing the viability of the agriculture sector and in some countries, population wellbeing. At the same time, liquid effluent volumes generated from agro-food industries in general and olive oil industry in particular, are quite huge. Thus, the main aim of this work is to suggest a sustainable solution for the management of olive mill wastewaters (OMWW) with possible reuse in irrigation. This work is a part of a series of papers valorizing all the outputs of a three-phase system of oil mills. It deals with recovery, by condensation, of water from both OMWW and OMWW-impregnated biomasses (sawdust and wood chips), during a convective drying operation (air velocity: 1 m/s and air temperature: 50 °C). The experimental results showed that the water yield recovery reaches about 95%. The condensate waters have low electrical conductivity and salinities but also acidic pH values and slightly high chemical oxygen demand (COD) values. However, they could be returned suitable for reuse in agriculture after additional low-cost treatment.
Spatial Heterogeneity in Glacier Mass-Balance Sensitivity across High Mountain Asia
Authors: Wang Rongjun , Liu Shiyin , Shangguan Donghui , Radić Valentina , Zhang Yong
Published: April 2019

Mass balance of glaciers in High Mountain Asia (HMA) varies substantially across the region. While the spatial variability is attributed to differences in climatic setting and sensitivity of these glaciers to climate change, an assessment of these factors to date has only been performed on a small sample of glaciers and a small set of climate perturbation scenarios. To advance the assessment to larger datasets, we first reconstruct the time series of reference-surface mass balance for 1952–2014 periods using an empirical model calibrated with observed mass balance from 45 glaciers across the HMA. Forcing the model with a set of independent stepwise changes of temperature (±0.5 K to ±6 K) and precipitation (±5% to ±30%), we assess the reference-surface mass balance sensitivity of each glacier in the sample. While the relationship between the change in mass balance and the change in precipitation is linear, the relationship with the change in temperature is non-linear. Spatial heterogeneity in the simulated mass balance sensitivities is attributed to differences in climatic setting, elevation, and the sensitivity of mass-balance profile (gradient) to changes in temperature and precipitation. While maritime and low-lying continental glaciers show high sensitivity to temperature changes and display a uniform mass-balance sensitivity with elevation, the high-lying continental glaciers show high sensitivity to precipitation changes and display a non-uniform mass-balance sensitivity with elevation. Our analysis reveals the dominant drivers of spatial variability in the mass balance sensitivity across the region: temperature as a single driver for maritime glaciers, and a superposition of temperature, precipitation seasonality, and snow/rain differentiation for continental glaciers. Finally, a set of sensitivity tests with perturbed model parameters confirms the robustness of our results. The model’s ability and robustness to resolve spatial patterns in the sensitivities and their drivers implies that simple modeling approaches remain a powerful tool for analyzing glacier response to climate change in HMA.
Research on Hedging Rules Based on Water Supply Priority and Benefit Loss of Water Shortage—A Case Study of Tianjin, China
Authors: Men Baohui , Wu Zhijian , Liu Huanlong , Li Yangsong , Zhao Yong
Published: April 2019

When a city’s water demand cannot be fully satisfied, the hedging rule can reduce water loss by limiting water supply in advance. Based on water supply priority and benefit loss of water shortage for different users, this paper improved the objective function of hedging rules considering the benefit loss of water shortage. At the same time, according to the idea of restricting water supply by water users in turn, improved hedging rules (IHR) are applied to the urban water supply in Tianjin. The conclusions achieved from this study are as follows: (1) IHR increased water supply assurance rates for domestic water with high-priority and avoided destructive water shortages in agricultural water with low-priority. (2) IHR can better reduce the destructive loss caused by a large number of water shortages and the loss of production caused by a small numbers of water shortages than traditional hedging rules, which ensures high efficiency of water supply during the dry period. The results show that the IHR can improve the operational performance of the urban water supply.
Zootechnical Farm Wastewaters in Ecuador: A Treatment Proposal and Cost-benefit Analysis
Authors: Verlicchi Paola , Sacoto Estefania C. Avilés , Zanni Giacomo
Published: April 2019

This paper presents and discusses the results of a study carried out in Ecuador, where the zootechnical sector represents one of the country’s most important economic activities. It is, however, the source of many environmental problems, including the release of untreated liquid effluents and odorous emissions, and the production and disposal of solid wastes. The main aim of this study was to propose a treatment train for the zootechnical farm wastewater, combining natural systems (i.e., lagoons and subsurface flow beds) with conventional technologies and a cost-benefit analysis. With reference to a specific case study, the different steps of the treatment train were designed and the corresponding construction, operational and maintenance costs evaluated. To better assess the technical and economic feasibility of such a proposal, a cost-benefit analysis was carried out. The social benefit was evaluated by means of the contingent valuation method and a focus on the methodology and collected results was reported. The main findings discussed, in terms of selected treatments, their costs, and the financial and economic analysis of the project, could be useful for administrators, decision-makers and all technicians involved in planning and management of zootechnical farm wastewaters in developing countries, in particular in Latin America.
HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP PERAWAT DENGAN TINDAKAN PENCEGAHAN INFEKSI DI RUANG ICU RUMAH SAKIT
Authors: Suharto Suharto , Suminar Ratna
Published: April 2019

Pengetahuan dan sikap Perawat dalam penggunaan alat pelindung diri pada saat melaksanakan tindakan keperawatan akan mengurangi resiko terjadinya pemularan infeksi di rumah sakit. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat hubungan pengetahuan dan sikap perawat tentang APD dengan tindakan pencegahan infeksi di ruang Intencif Care Unit (ICU). Metode  penelitian ini yaitu penelitian observasional analitik, dengan desain cross sectional. Populasi dalam penelitian ini 23 Orang perawat ICU sebagai responden dengan menggunakan tehnik total sampling. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan kuesioner yang berisi pernyataan tentang pengetahuan, sikap dan tindakan pencegahan infeksi. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah teknik analisis univariat dan bivariat (Chi Square). Pengujian Hipotesis dilakukan pada taraf signifikansi  0,05 atau 95%.                 Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan  variabel yang memiliki hubungan dengan tindakan pencegahan infeksi pengetahuan ρ= 0,024 < α = 0,05 dan sikap ρ=0,026<α=0,05). dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat hubungan pengetahuan dan sikap perawat dengan  tindakan  pencegahan infeksi di ruang ICU. Oleh karena itu disarankan kepada manajemen rumah sakit agar  meningkatkan pengetahuan dan sikap perawat ICU tentang manfaat APD dengan meningkatkan pengetahuan dan sikap perawat tentang APD melalui   pendidikan dan pelatihan bagi perawat secara berkelanjutan. Kata Kunci: Pengetahuan dan sikap, tindakan pencegahan  infeksi
HUBUNGAN PELAKSANAAN CUCI TANGAN OLEH PERAWAT SEBELUM DAN SESUDAH BERINTERAKSI DENGAN PASIEN TENTANG PENCEGAHAN INFEKSI NOSOKOMIAL DI RS PTPN II BANGKATAN BINJAI TAHUN 2017
Authors: Nadeak Yunita Sarah
Published: April 2019

Washing your hands is a simple thing to remove dirt or germs and minimize germs that are in your hands, by pouring water over. and can be done by adding certain ingredients such as soap. With this connection the implementation of hand washing by nurses before and after interacting with patients about prevention of infection, this type of research is a survey research method used to collect data or information about the success of the implementation of hand washing. The population in this study was nurses. The sample used was disobedience to nurses in hand washing before and after interacting with patients. The sampling technique is total sampling. Data analysis with chi-square test technique using the SPSS (Statiscal Product and Service Solution) program. From the results of the study the relationship between the implementation of hand washing by nurses before and after interacting with patients about prevention of nosocomial infections So Ha was accepted and Ho was rejected. There is a significant relationship between Knowledge and hand washing by nurses before and after interacting with patients about prevention of nosocomial infections at Rs. Ptpn 2 for the city of Binjai, so that respondents are expected to seek more knowledge about steps and compliance with hand washing.Keywords: Relationship of Hand Washing by Nurses, Prevent Infection
HUBUNGAN TINGKAT PENGETAHUAN TENTANG SADARI DENGAN PERILAKU SADARI SEBAGAI DETEKSI DINI KANKER PAYUDARA PADA MAHASISWA D-III KEBIDANAN KHARISMA HUSADA BINJAI TAHUN 2017
Authors: Tambunan Ronilda
Published: April 2019

Breast cancer cases in developed countries has reached more than 580.000 cases each year and 64% of these cases died of this disease. An estimated 10 of the Indonesian population of 100.000 are suffered and 70% of the patients examined her on the advanced stage. Being lazy and embarrassed to show the breast are some factors that cause the patient less understanding about breast cancer. Student who was educated in the health sector in general has gained knowledge about BSE so that tends to establish a positive attitude that is reflected in their behavior. The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between the knowledge level of BSE and BSE behavior. This research uses an analytic observational study design with cross sectional approach. The sampling technique used is simple random sampling with a number of research subjects consisted of 93 female college students of DIV Midwifery Studies Program of Medical Faculty of UNS in VI and VIII semester. Measuring instruments used are questionnaires and statistical analysis used was Spearman's Rank with the aid of a computer program SPSS version 17.00. The results of the 93 respondents indicated that there were 53 people (57%) had a high knowledge level of BSE, 38 people (40.8%) had an average knowledge level of BSE and two people (2.2%) had low knowledge level of BSE. While there were 44 people (47.3%) had a good BSE behavior, 41 people (44.1%) had a good enough BSE behavior and eight people (8.6%) had an unfavorable BSE behavior. The statistical result is π = 0.404 with a significance of 0.00 (P < 0.05).
FAKTOR RISIKO KEJADIAN DISLIPIDEMIA PADA LANSIA (Studi Kasus Kontrol Pada Lansia di Poli Lansia RSUD. Bangkinang Kabupaten Kampar Tahun 2016–2017)
Authors: Lestari Ayuning , Handini Myrnawati Crie , Sinaga Taruli Rohana
Published: April 2019

Based on the data from the Central Bureau of Statistics in 2014, the population of the elderly reached 20.24 million or 8.03% of the whole Indonesian people. The older a person is, the more vulnerable he is to degenerative diseases, and one of them is dyslipidemia. The objective of the research was to find out the risk factor for the incidence of dyslipidemia and to determine the value of Odds Ratio of risk factor for dyslipidemia. The research used case-control study design. The data were gathered from patients’ medical records and from the respondents. The samples were 135 respondents with 45 of them were in case group and 90 of them were in control group. The result of bivariate analysis showed that all independent variables were correlated with the incidence of dyslipidemia (p<0.05). The result of multivariate analysis showed that the variable which had the most dominant correlation  was smoking habit at p-value = 0.000 (p<0.05) and OR-value = 9.929 (85% CI 3.428-28.762) which indicated that smoking habit was the most influential risk factor for the incidence of dyslipidemia in the elderly. Keywords: The Elderly, Dyslipidemia, Gender, Obesity, Diabetes Mellitus, Smoking
HUBUNGAN POSISI KERJA DENGAN KELUHAN MUSKULOSKELETAL PADA KARYAWAN- KARYAWATI SWALAYAN DIAMOND MEDAN JOHOR
Authors: Novziransyah Nanda , Syahputra Deny , Depianti Erika , Mukhtar Muhammad Ramadhan
Published: April 2019

AbstrakErgonomi merupakan penerapan ilmu-ilmu biologis tentang manusia bersama-sama dengan ilmu-ilmu teknik dan teknologi untuk mencapai penyesuaian. Keluhan muskuloskeletal adalah keluhan sakit, nyeri, pegal-pegal dan lainnya pada sistem otot (muskuloskeletal) seperti tendon, pembuluh darah, sendi, tulang, syaraf dan lainnya yang disebabkan oleh aktivitas kerja. Suatu survey yang dilakukan oleh Simon Fraser University and the United Food and Commercial Workers mengidikasikan 30% pekerja kasar menderita MSD. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui Hubungan berbagai posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskulosekeletal pada karyawan-karyawati  swalayan Diamond Medan Johor. Manfaat penelitian ini diharapkan dapat disebarluaskan di media massa tentang hubungan posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskuloskeletal sehingga dapat bermanfaat bagi karyawan-karyawati lainnya. Desain penelitian ini adalah menggunakan metode penelitian  analitik pendekatan cross sectional dengan besar sampel 60 orang.  Penelitian ini dilakukan pada bulan April sampai Mei 2018 dan alat pengumpulan data yang di pakai adalah dengan menggunakan lembaran kesioner. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa keluhan muskuloskeletal berupa nyeri terbanyak yaitu pada posisi mengangkat (Staf Area) 31 orang (50.6%), dimana 20 orang (33.3%) pada posisi berdiri (kasir) dan 6 orang (13.1%) pada posisi berjalan (pramuniaga). Keluhan muskuloskeletal berupa bengkak terbanyak yaitu posisi mengangkat (Staf Area) 2 orang (1.2%), 1 orang (0.6%) pada posisi berjalan (pramuniaga) dan pada posisi berdiri (kasir) tidak dijumpai keluhan muskuloskeletal.Kata Kunci : Ergonomi, Keluhan Muskuloskeletal, Posisi Kerja
DEVELOPMENT OF UNIFIED MECHANISMS OF THE DRIVER OF THE CONCRETE MIXERS OF FORCING ACTION
Authors: Кайтуков Б. , Kaytukov B. , Скель В. , Skel' V. , Горяйнова П. , Goryaynova P.
Published: April 2019

The issue of choosing a rational number of drive mechanisms of concrete mixers of forcing action based on unification is considered. The analysis of unification methods of various systems is carried out. It is represented by successive logical steps that provide a rational approach to the creation of promising designs and an increase in the technical level of mixers. The proposed methodology for unifying the mechanisms of rotary mixers allows the development of new, productive, energy-saving mixers with reliable mechanisms for driving working bodies.

The mixing process in rotary mixers is described. It is distinguished by the design feature and operating mode of the working body, which made it possible to choose the optimal speed mode of operation. Analysis of the design of foreign promising rotary mixers with planetary drive mechanisms allows offering a unified modular planetary gearbox as a drive. It allows optimal composing of the concrete mixer design, reducing weight, maintenance and repair costs, by improving the quality of workmanship and reliability.
Методичний підхід до пристрілювання автоматів АК-74 та АКМ з коліматорним прицілом
Authors: Гурнович А. В. , Трофименко В. Г. , Кіркач Н. П.
Published: April 2019

Розглянуто особливості пристрілювання автоматів з коліматорними прицілами (висота прицільної лінії у яких вище прицільної лінії відкритого прицілу) для забезпечення оптимальної балістики. Також розглядається ефективність стрільби такої зброї в залежності від точки прицілювання.
Вихрострумовий пристрій з базою даних образів для ідентифікації типів металів прихованих об’єктів
Authors: Абрамович А. О. , Піддубний В. О. , Гусляков О. М.
Published: April 2019

Подані результати досліджень експериментального зразка вихрострумового пристрою (ВСП) та методи обробки сигналу з антени ВСП, що поліпшують основні технічні характеристики таких приладів, перетворюючи їх з металошукачів, які здійснюють розрізнення металів (чорний або кольоровий) в металоаналізатори, що створюють образ об’єкта, який виявляється. Запропоновано варіант застосування ВСП при розмінуванні.
Експертна підтримка прийняття рішень при визначенні пріоритетів розвитку озброєння та військової техніки
Authors: Борохвостов І. В. , Павловський І. В. , Циганок В. В. , Андрійчук О. В.
Published: April 2019

Проведено аналіз існуючої методики комплексного врахування експертних та параметричних оцінок під час визначення пріоритетів розвитку озброєння та військової техніки та оснащення ними Збройних Сил України. Висвітлені недоліки її практичної реалізації та визначені напрями удосконалення. Для експертної складової зазначеної методики розроблено нове дерево ієрархій, обґрунтовані нові критерії при проведенні експертного оцінювання та склад рівнів ієрархії для підтримки процесу визначення пріоритетів при обґрунтуванні програм озброєння. Розроблена послідовність визначення пріоритетів розвитку озброєння та військової техніки під час експертного оцінювання. Визначено шляхи врахування динамічності процесу реалізації програми озброєння під час встановлення пріоритетів розвитку озброєння та військової техніки.
The Roles of Plant-Derived Triptolide on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wei Jie , Yan Yuanliang , Chen Xi , Qian Long , Zeng Shuangshuang , Li Zhi , Dai Shuang , Gong Zhicheng , Xu Zhijie
Published: April 2019

Over the past decade, natural compounds have been proven to be effective against many human diseases, including cancers. Triptolide (TPL), a diterpenoid triepoxide from the Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, has exhibited attractive cytotoxic activity on several cancer
cells. An increasing number of studies have emphasized the antitumor effects of TPL on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here we mainly focused on the key molecular signaling pathways that lead to the inhibitory effects of TPL on human NSCLC, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)
modulation, inhibition of NF-κB activation, suppression of miRNA expression, etc. In addition, the effect of TIG on immune response in cancer patients is summarized for improved immune modulation utilization. However, the clinical use of TPL is often limited by its severe toxicity and
water insolubility. Future clinical trials and drug delivery strategies that will evaluate the security and validate the underlying tumor-killing properties of TPL in human NSCLC are also to be discussed.
RAS-Responsive Element-Binding Protein 1 Blocks the Granulocytic Differentiation of Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Yao Juanjuan , Zhong Liang , Zhong Pengqiang , Liu Dongdong , Yuan Zhen , Liu Junmei , Yao Shifei , Zhao Yi , Chen Min , Li Lianwen , Liu Lu , Liu Beizhong
Published: April 2019

RAS-responsive element-binding protein 1 (RREB1) is a transcription factor that is implicated in RAS signaling and multiple tumors. However, the role of RREB1 in acute myeloid leukemia has not been studied. We found that RREB1 is overexpressed in AML patients and myeloid leukemia cell
lines (NB4 and HL-60), and RREB1 expression was significantly decreased during granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells induced by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Then we performed a RREB1 knockdown assay in NB4 and HL-60 cells; the results showed that knockdown of RREB1
upregulated expression of CD11b, CEBPβ, and microRNA-145 (miR-145), which hinted that knockdown of RREB1 enhanced granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells. In addition, inhibitor of miR-145 can offset the enhanced effect on granulocytic differentiation mediated by downregulation
of RREB1. These collective findings demonstrated that RREB1 blocks granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells by inhibiting the expression of miR-145 and downstream targets of the RAS signal pathway. These may provide a promising therapeutic target for AML patients.
MicroRNA-152 Inhibits Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Breast Cancer
Authors: Maimaitiming Adilijiang , Wusiman Ailijiang , Aimudula Abulajiang , Kuerban Xuekelaiti , Su Pengcheng
Published: April 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate the roles of microRNA-152 (miR-152) in the initiation and progression of breast cancer. The expression level of miR-152 was detected in human breast cancer tissue and a panel of human breast cancer cell lines using qRT-PCR. Results found
that miR-152 expression was significantly downregulated in breast cancer tissue samples compared to adjacent noncancerous tissues as well as in breast cancer cell lines. Overexpression of miR-152 significantly suppressed breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Luciferase
reporter assay results found that ROCK1 is a direct and functional target gene of miR-152 in breast cancer. In addition, downexpression of ROCK1 could inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. These findings indicate that miR-152 inhibited breast cancer growth and
metastasis through negative regulation of ROCK1 expression. These data suggest that miR-152/ROCK1 pathway may be a useful therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment.
Rapid, ultraviolet-induced, reversibly switchable wettability of superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic surfaces
Authors: Pan Yunlu , Kong Wenting , Bhushan Bharat , Zhao Xuezeng
Published: April 2019

Controllable wettability is important for a wide range of applications, including intelligent switching, self-cleaning and oil/water separation. In this work, rapid switching and extreme wettability changes upon ultraviolet (UV) illumination were investigated. TiO2 nanoparticles were modified in solutions of trimethoxy(alkyl)silane, and the suspensions were sprayed on glass substrates. For such samples, the water contact angle (WCA) was shown to transition from a superhydrophobic (WCA ≈ 165°) to a superhydrophilic (WCA ≈ 0°) state within 10 min upon UV illumination and subsequent recovery to superhydrophobicity occurred after heat treatment. It was found that the changes in the trimethoxy(alkyl)silane upon UV illumination can explain the rapid decrease of the WCA from more than 165° to almost 0°. To further investigate the wettability transition, trimethoxy(alkyl)silane and Al2O3 nanoparticles (which are not photocatalytic) were mixed and spray-coated onto the glass substrates as the control samples. Then the unrecoverable change of trimethoxy(alkyl)silane under UV illumination can be confirmed. It was found that the presence of trimethoxy(alkyl)silane in the TiO2–trimethoxy(alkyl)silane coating served to speed up the super-wettability transition time from superhydrophobicity to superhydrophilicity, but also limited the number of wettability recycle times. With this understanding, the effect of the trimethoxy(alkyl)silane concentration on the number of recycle cycles was investigated.
SECTORAL ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BANK RISK CAPITAL IN THE VISEGRAD GROUP COUNTRIES
Authors: Tan Pham Nhat , Tučková Zuzana , Phu Thi Phan Quyen
Published: April 2019

Bank risk capital (capital at risk) is identified with the value of banks’ own funds maintaining to absorb potential losses and protect against insolvency. It is calculated for the capital adequacy ratios, recommended by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision. On other words, it is a kind of banks’ capital that financing securing the negative effects of risk occurring. A comparative analysis of effectiveness of bank risk capital in the Visegrad Group countries, constituting the main objective of the study, results from the needs indicated in the already conducted preliminary research. In the article, statistical and econometric methods were used, based on linear regression models. The conducted research were aimed to verify the research hypothesis stating that in the analyzed banking sectors of the Visegrad Group countries there is a positive correlation between banks' profitability and a level of their bank risk capital. The study indicated that net profit of the analyzed banking sectors increases with a growth of total own funds, while profitability is diversified in individual countries. Declining operational efficiency results from the growing cost of obtaining and maintaining risk capital.
The Comparative Effectiveness of NRTI-Sparing Dual Regimens in Emulated Trials using Observational Data from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
Authors:   the Swiss HIV Cohort Study, Young Jim , Scherrer Alexandra U , Calmy Alexandra , Tarr Philip E , Bernasconi Enos , Cavassini Matthias , Hachfeld Anna , Vernazza Pietro , Günthard Huldrych F , Bucher Heiner C
Published: April 2019

Background

Nucleoside (or nucleotide) reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) cause side effects in some patients, prompting the use of either partly or fully NRTI-sparing regimens.

Methods

We used data from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study to estimate the effectiveness of two new dolutegravir dual regimens relative to the alternative NRTI-sparing dual regimens that our clinicians used previously. We emulated two trials by propensity score matching case patients on the dolutegravir regimen with control patients on an alternative regimen. We analysed the case control sets using a Bayesian Cox model and estimated effectiveness as the percentage still on their trial regimen without virological failure at 48 weeks.

Results

In a comparison of partly NRTI-sparing regimens, 58 cases treated with dolutegravir were matched to 17 controls treated with boosted darunavir (both with lamivudine or emtricitabine). The estimated difference in effectiveness was 15% (95% credible interval [CrI] 2–33) and 12% (95% CrI 0–26) in two sequential analyses 1 year apart. In a comparison of fully NRTI-sparing regimens, 54 cases treated with dolutegravir were matched to 32 controls treated with raltegravir (both with boosted darunavir). The estimated difference in effectiveness was 9% (95% CrI −1–21) and 5% (95% CrI −4–15) in the two sequential analyses.

Conclusions

Estimates of relative effectiveness suggest that both dolutegravir regimens are not inferior to these alternative regimens. All four regimens seem suitable for patients needing an NRTI-sparing regimen: there were few virological failures and few treatment changes due to toxicity.
Molecular evidence for cryptic species in the common slug eating snake Duberria lutrix lutrix (Squamata, Lamprophiidae) from South Africa
Authors: Kullenkampff Kyle , Van Zyl Francois , Klaus Sebastian , Daniels Savel R.
Published: April 2019

We examined the impact of climatic fluctuations on the phylogeographic structure of the common slug eating snake (Duberrialutrixlutrix) throughout its distribution in South Africa. The evolutionary history within the taxon was examined using partial DNA sequence data for two mitochondrial genes (ND4 + cytb) in combination with a nuclear locus (SPTBN1). Phylogenetic relationships were investigated for both the combined mtDNA and total evidence DNA sequence data. In addition, population and demographic analyses together with divergence time estimations were conducted on the combined mtDNA data. Topologies derived from the combined mtDNA analyses and the total evidence analyses were congruent and retrieved five statistically well-supported clades, suggesting thatDuberrial.lutrixrepresents a species complex. The five clades were generally allopatric, separated by altitudinal barriers and characterised by the absence of shared mtDNA haplotypes suggesting long term isolation. Divergence time estimations indicate that the diversification within theD.l.lutrixspecies complex occurred during the Plio/Pleistocene as a result of climatic fluctuations and habitat shifts for the species. A taxonomic revision of theD.l.lutrixspecies complex may be required to delineate possible species boundaries.
Rates of Total Joint Replacement in the United States: Future Projections to 2020–2040 Using the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Yu Shaohua , Chen Lang , Cleveland John D.
Published: April 2019

Objective.

To project future total hip and knee joint arthroplasty (THA, TKA) use in the United States to 2040.

Methods.

We used the 2000–2014 US National Inpatient Sample (NIS) combined with Census Bureau data to develop projections for primary THA and TKA from 2020 to 2040 using polynomial regression to account for the nonlinearity and interactions between the variables, assuming the underlying distribution of the number of THA/TKA to be Poisson distributed. We performed sensitivity analyses using a negative binomial regression to account for overdispersion.

Results.

Predicted total annual counts (95% prediction intervals) for THA in the United States by 2020, 2025, 2030, and 2040 are (in thousands): 498 (475, 523), 652 (610, 696), 850 (781, 925), and 1429 (1265, 1615), respectively. For primary TKA, predicted total annual counts for 2020, 2025, 2030, and 2040 are (in thousands): 1065 (937, 1211), 1272 (1200, 1710), 1921 (1530, 2410), and 3416 (2459, 4745), respectively. Compared to the available 2014 NIS numbers, the percent increases in projected total annual US use for primary THA and TKA in 2020, 2025, 2030, and 2040 are as follows: primary THA, by 34%, 75%, 129%, and 284%; and primary TKA, 56%, 110%, 182%, and 401%, respectively. Primary THA and TKA use is projected to increase for both females and males, in all age groups.

Conclusion.

Significant increases in use of THA and TKA are expected in the United States in the future, if the current trend continues. The increased use is evident across age groups in both females and males. A policy change may be needed to meet increased demand.
Peripheral Manifestations in Spondyloarthritis and their Effect: An Ancillary Analysis of the ASAS-COMOSPA Study
Authors: López-Medina Clementina , Moltó Anna , Dougados Maxime
Published: April 2019

Objective.

To determine the factors associated with the presence of peripheral manifestations in patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) from the Assessment in SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS)-COMOSPA study, and to evaluate the effect of these symptoms on treatment and patient-reported outcomes (PRO).

Methods.

All patients from the ASAS-COMOSPA study were included. All patients had an SpA diagnosis according to the rheumatologist. Patients and disease characteristics associated with the presence of these peripheral manifestations (peripheral arthritis, peripheral enthesitis, or dactylitis) were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Patients who reported peripheral manifestations were divided into 3 categories: current, history, and no history. The effect of peripheral involvement on PRO was evaluated through the use of 1-factor ANOVA.

Results.

Out of the 3984 patients included in ASAS-COMOSPA, 2562 (64.3%) reported at least 1 peripheral manifestation, with a prevalence of 51.5%, 37.8%, and 15.6% for peripheral arthritis, peripheral enthesitis, and dactylitis, respectively. Being from South America, having a history of uveitis, having a current case or history of psoriasis, and the absence of HLA-B27 were associated with higher prevalence of peripheral manifestations. Patients with peripheral involvement showed greater use of drugs, and those with “current” peripheral manifestations showed higher levels in all PRO, in contrast to those with past or no history.

Conclusion.

Peripheral manifestations appear in 64% of patients with SpA. Psoriasis and the absence of HLA-B27 are associated with the development of peripheral symptoms. The presence of any peripheral symptom at the time of the visit was associated with higher scores in all PRO.
Construction of a Frailty Index as a Novel Health Measure in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Legge Alexandra , Kirkland Susan , Rockwood Kenneth , Andreou Pantelis , Bae Sang-Cheol , Gordon Caroline , Romero-Diaz Juanita , Sanchez-Guerrero Jorge , Wallace Daniel J. , Bernatsky Sasha , Clarke Ann E. , Merrill Joan T. , Ginzler Ellen M. , Fortin Paul , Gladman Dafna D. , Urowitz Murray B. , Bruce Ian N. , Isenberg David A. , Rahman Anisur , Alarcón Graciela S. , Petri Michelle , Khamashta Munther A. , Dooley M.A. , Ramsey-Goldman Rosalind , Manzi Susan , Zoma Asad A. , Aranow Cynthia , Mackay Meggan , Ruiz-Irastorza Guillermo , Lim S. Sam , Inanc Murat , van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Jonsen Andreas , Nived Ola , Ramos-Casals Manuel , Kamen Diane L. , Kalunian Kenneth C. , Jacobsen Soren , Peschken Christine A. , Askanase Anca , Hanly John G.
Published: April 2019

Objective.

To construct a Frailty Index (FI) as a measure of vulnerability to adverse outcomes among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), using data from the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) inception cohort.

Methods.

The SLICC inception cohort consists of recently diagnosed patients with SLE followed annually with clinical and laboratory assessments. For this analysis, the baseline visit was defined as the first study visit at which sufficient information was available for construction of an FI. Following a standard procedure, variables from the SLICC database were evaluated as potential health deficits. Selected health deficits were then used to generate a SLICC-FI. The prevalence of frailty in the baseline dataset was evaluated using established cutpoints for FI values.

Results.

The 1683 patients with SLE (92.1% of the overall cohort) eligible for inclusion in the baseline dataset were mostly female (89%) with mean (SD) age 35.7 (13.4) years and mean (SD) disease duration 18.8 (15.7) months at baseline. Of 222 variables, 48 met criteria for inclusion in the SLICC-FI. Mean (SD) SLICC-FI was 0.17 (0.08) with a range from 0 to 0.51. At baseline, 27.1% (95% CI 25.0–29.2) of patients were classified as frail, based on SLICC-FI values > 0.21.

Conclusion.

The SLICC inception cohort permits feasible construction of an FI for use in patients with SLE. Even in a relatively young cohort of patients with SLE, frailty was common. The SLICC-FI may be a useful tool for identifying patients with SLE who are most vulnerable to adverse outcomes, but validation of this index is required prior to its use.
Intentional Rounding With Certified Nursing Assistants in Long-Term Care: A Pilot Project
Authors: Jenko Mimi , Panjwani Yasmin , Buck Harleah G.
Published: April 2019

Intentional rounding (IR) is a strategy used by predominately acute care nursing staff to proactively address patients' needs at regular and consistent intervals. The current project piloted the use of IR with certified nursing assistants (CNAs) on a 60-bed unit of a 120-bed skilled nursing facility (SNF). Using a pre/post intervention design and the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework, the authors measured knowledge of IR's “4Ps” (potty, position, possessions, and pain) and the incidence of falls and lost possessions. Uptake of IR over 10 weeks of implementation and CNAs' perceptions of intervention were also assessed. The pilot showed positive outcomes for each of the five aims. Data suggest that IR was well received by CNAs and changed practice patterns regarding quality, safety, and satisfaction. Based on these findings, replication of this project in other SNFs is recommended, given the current small and underpowered study. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 45
(6), 15–21.]
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and Pulmonary Outcomes of Prematurity
Authors: Tracy Megan K. , Berkelhamer Sara K.
Published: April 2019

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease most commonly seen in premature infants who require mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy. Despite advances in neonatal care resulting in improved survival and decreased morbidity, limited progress has been made in reducing rates of BPD. Therapeutic options to protect the vulnerable developing lung are limited as are strategies to treat lung injury, resulting in ongoing concerns for long-term pulmonary morbidity after preterm birth. Lung protective strategies and optimal nutrition are recognized to improve pulmonary outcomes. However, characterization of late outcomes is challenged by rapid advances in neonatal care. As a result, current adult survivors reflect outdated medical practices. Although neonatal pulmonary disease tends to improve with growth, compromised respiratory health has been documented in young adult survivors of BPD. With improved survival of premature infants but limited progress in reducing rates of disease, BPD represents a growing burden on health care systems.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2019;48(4):e148–e153.]
Congenital Lung Malformations
Authors: Palla John , Sockrider Marianna M.
Published: April 2019

Congenital lung malformations (CLM) comprise a spectrum of anatomical anomalies of the lungs and respiratory tree. The prenatal growth pattern of CLMs is unpredictable with larger lesions causing life-threatening complications, such as hydrops fetalis, and smaller lesions remaining asymptomatic and potentially regressing. The most common CLMs are congenital pulmonary adenomatoid malformations, bronchopulmonary sequestrations, congenital lobar emphysema, and bronchogenic cysts. All these lesions have clinically similar presentations when symptomatic, but pathophysiologic differences that must be considered when evaluating and treating. This article reviews the most common CLMs, their pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic considerations, and current literature on the controversies surrounding CLM management.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2019;48(4):e169–e174.]
Common Pediatric Airway Disorders
Authors: Patwari Pallavi P. , Sharma Girish D.
Published: April 2019

Pediatric airway disorders may be congenital (anatomical) or acquired (infectious) and may involve the upper, lower, or entire airway, with obstruction being a common feature. The pathophysiology of upper airway obstruction in infants, children, and adolescents is distinctly different due to the anatomic differences that evolve with growth. Accordingly, clinical presentation and consequences of airway obstruction vary by age. This article reviews the common upper airway disorders by age with a review of classic presentation, recommended diagnostic steps, and management considerations for the general pediatrician.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2019;48(4):e162–e168.]
Challenges and Future Trends for Thai Education: Conceptual Framework into Action
Authors: Sethakul Panarit , Utakrit Nattakant
Published: April 2019

The challenges and future trends in Thailand in the 21st century are considered from several factors. These include the revolution of Thailand 4.0, digital revolution, 2030 Agenda for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) in Quality Education, ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) preparations, workforce’s need, middle-income gap, population aging, deterioration of natural resources due to unsustainable economic growth, and educational quality and management system development. The Office of Education Council proposes a development paradigm shift in the education of Thailand 4.0 toward the 21st century. The primary focus of a new 20-year plan, announced in the National Scheme of Education B.E. 2560-2579 (2017-2036) [1], provides a national capacity building framework into action, regarding educational management, educational opportunity, educational quality, instructional effectiveness, the administration of educational institutions, budget management, and educational development in the competitive era.
Remote Control of Space Robots Change-Adaptive in its External Environment
Authors: Kulakov F.M. , Kadry Seifedine , Alferov G.V. , Efimova P.A.
Published: April 2019

In the paper a method of remote bilateral control of space robots operating in a non-deterministic environment with a large delay in control signals transmission is presented. The method provides adaptation of space robot behavior to possible changes in its external environment. Compared to the known approaches this method reduces influence of external environment variation on the control process.
System Architecture for Virtual Team Campus on Cloud to Support Internal Quality Assurance of Rajamangala University of Technology
Authors: Kankaew Varit , Wannapiroon Panita
Published: April 2019

This research has a purpose to study and design the system architecture for virtual team campus on Cloud to support the internal quality assurance of Rajamangala University of Technology. The research was divided into two steps as follows: 1) system architecture design and 2) system architecture assessment. The samples of this research consisted of 10 experts involved in internal quality assurance and information and communication technology chosen by using a specific selection method. The assessment form was used as a research instrument to assess the system architecture for virtual team campus on Cloud to support internal quality assurance work of Rajamangala University of Technology. The statistics used in this study were Arithmetic Mean and Standard Deviation. The results of the research showed that the Cloud system architecture processing model in the form of software services which demonstrated the systems and modules that worked together under the context of Rajamangala University in internal quality assurance work in this research consisted of 2 main systems, 11 sub-modules that each  system and module was important for system development. The assessment of the system architecture from experts found that the system architecture designed by the researcher was at very good level which showed that the architecture that the researcher has designed can be used to develop the system of virtual team campus on Cloud to support the internal quality assurance of Rajamangala University of Technology.
Finding Balance
Authors: McKain Danielle , Grise Julia Bennett
Published: April 2019

Social media use is a complex topic. The type and use of social media presents a variety of formats and creates a multitude of directions for research. Pearson provides research on personal, professional, and teaching social media use in higher education that shows the use of social media in higher education is growing. While this research provides a foundation, it raises many questions. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of common Learning Management Systems or platforms and social media networks that are often used in college courses. This chapter also provides common ways that social media is used outside of the classroom. The chapter concludes with concerns that are raised regardless of the type of social media use, platform, or network.