bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ongoing COVID-19 Epidemic Curves Indicate Initial Point Spread in China with Log-Normal Distribution of New Cases Per Day with a Predictable Last Date of the Outbreak
Authors: Olsson Stefan
Published: March 2020

During an epidemic outbreak it is useful for planners and responsible authorities to be able to plan ahead to estimate when an outbreak of an epidemic is likely to ease and when the last case can be predicted in their area of responsibility. Theoretically this could be done for a point source epidemic using epidemic curve forecasting. The extensive data now coming out of China makes it possible to test if this can be done using MS Excel a standard spreadsheet program available to most offices. The available data is divided up for whole China and the different provinces. This and the high number of cases makes the analysis possible. Data for new confirmed infections for Hubei, Hubei outside Wuhan, China excluding Hubei as well as Zhejiang and Fujian provinces all follow a log-normal distribution that can be used to make a rough estimate for the date of the last new confirmed cases in respective areas.
Characteristics of Carbohydrate Metabolism, Grain Quality and Yield Provide Insights into Rice-Tartary Buckwheat Improvement
Authors: Liao Kai , Wang Yan , Yu Wujuan , Wei Chunyu , Liang Chenggang
Published: March 2020

Rice-Tartary buckwheat is a special type of Tartary buckwheat with easy hulling thin shell. The local rice-Tartary buckwheat ‘cv. Xiaomiqiao’ (XMQ) was used to explore the characteristics of photosynthesis, starch synthesis, yield and quality, as compared to Tartary buckwheat ‘cv. Jinqiao 2’(JQ2). XMQ showed significantly lower values of net photosynthetic rate, ADPGase activity and starch synthase activity at one or more periods during grain filling, as compared to that of JQ2. The effective branch number and grain number per plant of XMQ were similar to that of JQ2 regardless of different years, but the 1000-grain weight was significantly lighter that resulted in the significantly lower yield. XMQ accumulated similar contents of starch (amylose, amylopectin) and protein (glutelin, albumin, prolamin, globulin) to that of JQ2, but exhibited significantly lower flavonoid content. The values of peak viscosity and hot paste viscosity in XMQ were similar to that of JQ2, but the values of cool paste viscosity, breakdown and setback were significantly lower. In conclusion, XMQ showed low yield due to the insufficient of photosynthesis and starch synthesis. XMQ exhibited high nutritional quality as well as normal Tartary buckwheat and stored 18.88mg g-1 of flavonoid, that can be consumed as daily diet. The present results will provide a basis for food processing and breeding of rice-Tartary buckwheat.
Using ISSR Genomic Fingerprinting to Study the Genetic Differentiation of Artemia Leach, 1819 (Crustacea: Anostraca) from Iran and Neighbor Regions with the Focus on the Invasive American Artemia franciscana
Authors: Eimanifar Amin , Asem Alireza , Wang Pei-Zheng , Li Weidong , Wink Michael
Published: March 2020

Due to the rapid developments in aquaculture industry, Artemia franciscana, originally an American species, has been intentionally introduced to the Eurasia, Africa and Australia. In the present study, we used a partial sequence of the mitochondrial DNA Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (mt-DNA COI) gene and genomic fingerprinting by Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSRs) to determine the genetic variability and population structure of Artemia populations (indigenous and introduced) from 14 different geographical locations in Western Asia. Based on the haplotype spanning network, Artemia urmiana has exhibited higher genetic variation than native parthenogenetic populations. Although A. urmiana represented a completely private haplotype distribution, no apparent genetic structure was recognized among the native parthenogenetic and invasive A. franciscana populations. Our ISSR findings have documented that despite invasive populations have lower variation than source population in Great Salt Lake (Utah, USA), they have significantly revealed higher genetic variability compare to the native populations in Western Asia. According to the ISSR results, the native populations were not fully differentiated by the PCoA analysis, but the exotic A. franciscana populations were geographically divided in four genetic groups. We believe that during the colonization, invasive populations have experienced substantial genetic divergences, under new ecological conditions in the non-indigenous regions.
Comparison of Catch Efficiency between the Use of Circle and Tuna Hooks in Taiwan’s Tuna Longline Fishery in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Chen Chao-ching , Lin Hsin-Zong
Published: March 2020

Taiwan is the world’s leading country regarding tuna longline fisheries; the combined catches with those from Japan account for more than half of the global total. However, the bycatch of sea turtles, seabirds, and dolphins in longline fisheries has attracted international concern. Regarding sea turtle conservation, the use of circle hooks in longline fisheries will inevitably become a trend. Meanwhile, Taiwanese fishermen are concerned whether the use of circle hooks will have a negative impact on the catch efficiency of target species. This study was conducted to compare the catch efficiency of circle and tuna hooks by the Taiwanese commercial tuna longline fishing vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The results indicated that if the effects of immersion time were considered, the catch rates of all groups were the same between 4.2-sun circle and tuna hooks. However, the catch rate of 4.0-sun circle hooks was significantly higher than the two types of 4.2-sun circle and tuna hooks. Regarding survival rates, fish caught with circle hooks showed higher survival rates than tuna hooks for total commercial fish, tunas and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares). However, the survival rate was only determined at haulback; the relationship between survival rate and immersion time still needs further investigation. Regarding catch sizes, there were no significant differences in the sizes of bigeye (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna between circle and tuna hooks. But based solely on mean weight, the value of yellowfin tuna caught using circle hooks may be higher than those using tuna hooks. In summary, the circle hooks used in this study did not show a negative impact on the catch efficiency of Taiwanese longline fisheries, and could show a superior performance than that of tuna hooks. These results could be actively promoted in the industry through the education and training of fishermen; thus enabling Taiwan to comply with international sea turtle conservation trends.
Eski Dersim Mebusu Lütfi Fikri Bey'in 1925 Yılında Ankara İstiklal Mahkmesi'nde Yargılanması
Authors: GAZEL Ahmet
Published: March 2020

II. Abdülhamit, II.
Meşrutiyet ve Atatürk dönemlerinde siyasi faaliyette bulunan Lütfi Fikri Bey,
genelde her dönemde muhalefette yer almış ve zaman zaman da çeşitli
mahkemelerde yargılanmıştır. Lütfi Fikri Bey ilk olarak II. Abdülhamit
döneminde mahkeme önüne çıkmıştır. Mısır’da neşredilen Mizan gazetesine yazı yazmayı teklif ettiği gerekçesiyle 1895
yılında 14 ay hapis cezasına çarptırılmıştır. Lütfi Fikri Bey, ikinci olarak
Halifeliğin kaldırılmasına karşı çıktığı için 1923 yılında İstanbul’da kurulan
İstiklal Mahkemesi’nde yargılanmış ve 27 Aralık 1923 tarihinde İstiklal
Mahkemesince beş yıl ağır hapse mahkûm edilmiştir. Ancak 13 Şubat 1924
tarihinde TBMM tarafından çıkarılan 124 sayılı özel bir yasa ile affedilmiştir. Lütfi Fikri Bey,
1925 yılında ise Ankara İstiklal Mahkemesi’nde yargılanmıştır. Bu seferki
suçlama Tarikat-ı Salahiye adlı gizli bir cemiyete üye olmaktır. Lütfi
Fikri’nin cemiyetle tam bir bağlantısı tespit edilememiştir. Mahkemede bazı
kişilerin adını vermesi ve cemiyet üyelerince 1922 yılında yapılan bir kabine
listesinde yer almış olmasından dolayı evinde arama yapılmıştır. Arama
sırasında cemiyetle bağlantısını gösterecek bir delil bulunamazken abisi Münci
Bey’in yazdığı bir mektup ve 1923 yılına ait günlükleri bulunmuştur. Özellikle günlüğünde
Cumhuriyete ve Mustafa Kemal Paşa’ya yönelik bazı ithamlar tespit edilmiştir.
Neticede tutuklanarak Ankara İstiklal Mahkemesi’ne sevk edilmiştir. 15 Ağustos
1925 tarihinde karar açıklanmış ve cemiyetle bağlantısına dair bir delil
bulunamadığı için Lütfi Fikri Bey beraat etmiştir. Beraat etmesinde cemiyetle
bir bağlantısının tespit edilememesi yanında Mustafa Kemal Paşa’nın Lütfi
Fikri’nin affına dair mahkeme heyetine yazdığı mektup da etkili olmuştur. Bu
makalede Lütfi Fikri Bey’in Tarikat-ı Salahiye Cemiyeti’ne üye olmaktan dolayı
1925 yılında İstiklal Mahkemesinde yargılanması dönemin gazetelerine dayalı
olarak anlatılmıştır.
Imaging Analyses of Bone Tumors
Authors: Errani Costantino , Tsukamoto Shinji , Mavrogenis Andreas F.
Published: March 2020

» Despite the evolution in imaging, especially the introduction of advanced imaging technologies, radiographs still are the key for the initial assessment of a bone tumor. Important aspects to be considered in radiographs are the location, shape and size or volume, margins, periosteal reaction, and internal mineralization of the tumor’s matrix; careful evaluation of these may provide for accurate diagnosis in >80% of cases.

» Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are often diagnostic for lesions with typical findings such as the nidus of osteoid osteoma and bone destruction such as in Ewing sarcoma and lymphoma that may be difficult to detect with radiographs; they may also be used for surgical planning. Magnetic resonance imaging accurately determines the intraosseous extent and articular and vascular involvement by the tumor.

» This article summarizes the diagnostic accuracy of imaging analyses in bone tumors and emphasizes the specific radiographic findings for optimal radiographic diagnosis of the patients with these tumors.
Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Ashton Matthew L. , Kraeutler Matthew J. , Brown Symone M. , Mulcahey Mary K.
Published: March 2020

» Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are among the most common athletic injuries in the United States, and reconstruction is often necessary for athletes to be able to return to their pre-injury level of sport.

» Following ACL reconstruction, many athletes are not able to return to sport.

» A number of factors have been identified that could account for the return-to-sport discrepancy; however, psychological readiness can have an important influence on an athlete’s ability to return to sport.

» Various interventions aimed at improving psychological factors have shown mixed results, although overall they seem promising.

» Sociodemographic factors (e.g., age, sex, and race) appear to have an influence on psychological readiness to return to sport; however, little research has been conducted on this topic.
Feasibility of Electromagnetic Heating for Oil Sand Reservoirs
Authors: Ji Dongqi , Harding Thomas Grant , Chen Zhangxing , Dong Mingzhe , Liu Hui , Li Zhiping , Lai Fengpeng
Published: March 2020

For methods of thermal heavy oil recovery, an alternative approach of applying electrical energy, such as electromagnetic heating, can be used to generate heat in reservoirs that are not suitable for steam injection or to improve the economics and reduce environmental impact of the heavy oil recovery compared to using steam injection. While much progress in the development of electromagnetic heating technology has been made in recent years, the ability to accurately and effectively mathematically model the application of an electromagnetic heating process to a reservoir has been limited. In this paper, based on our reliable and efficient electromagnetic heating simulator, the effects of operational parameters on electromagnetic heating performance are investigated including evaluation of antenna location, well constraints, and applied power and frequency. The feasibility of electromagnetic heating in oil sands reservoirs has been examined for two cases: a) a single horizontal well containing a heating source and b) a horizontal well-pair with heating sources located in both wells.
The Myth of Residual Oil Saturation in SAGD - Simulations Against Reality
Authors: Gupta Subodh , Gittins Simon , Oskouei Javad , Quiroga Samuel , Christiansen Joel
Published: March 2020

Understanding how SAGD works is important as most of the in-situ production of bitumen in Alberta is using SAGD technology. A key parameter in simulation-based SAGD performance prediction is the residual oil saturation, which usually in SAGD simulations is a fixed number based on typical two-phase end-point relative permeability curves, combined with Stone's model to yield oil's relative permeability. Therefore, in simulations residual oil saturation (Sor) never goes below a certain number (typically 0.15-0.2). In reality, based on retrieved cores, there is evidence of Sor continuously decreasing to as low as 0.03 and below. This paper explains the reason for this discrepancy and suggests modifications to the relative permeability model for more realistic simulations.

Observations from retrieved cores suggest the residual oil saturation is dependent on the length of SAGD operation. This is also supported by Cardwell-Parsons correlation albeit for a two-phase system. The discrepancy between the current simulation results and actual observations point to the inadequacy of the relative permeability models containing the end points where krog and krog vanish at abscissas Sw, Sg less than 1. In this work effect of extending mobility of the oil phase all the way to Sw, Sg = 1 and krw, krg all the way to Sw, Sg = 0 is examined. First, a column drainage is numerically simulated, and relevant curve parameters are retrieved by comparing results against field results. These curves are then extended to simulate SAGD.

The results show that the modified relative permeability curves mimic the observed behavior better with residual oil phase saturation progressively decreasing with time, rather than remaining constant after a certain point. Improved correlation with observed saturations obtained using modified curves suggest that the fixed residual saturations resulting from current models are a myth. When extended to solvent aided processes, the model reinforces the benefit of solvent additives even further.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge most current SAGD simulations are done in a manner resulting in a fixed residual oil saturation. The proposed method presents an opportunity for better prediction of oil saturation with time and location and the corresponding performance of the SAGD process.
Does Socioeconomic Status Affect Oral Health? Results from the PERSIAN Cohort Study
Authors: Najafi Farid , Hajizadeh Mohammad , Soofi Moslem , Salimi Yahya , Karyani Ali KAzemi , Soltani Shahin , Ahmadi Sina , Rad Enayatollah Homaie , MAtin Behzad Karami , Pasdar Yahya , Hamzeh Behrooz , Nazar Mehdi Moradi , Mohammadi Ali , Malekzadeh Reza , Poustchi Hossein , Motamed-Gorji Nazgol , Moslem Alireza , Khaleghi Ali Asghar , Fatthi Mohammad Reza , Aghazadeh-Attari Javad , Ahmadi Ali , Pourfarzi Farhad , Somi Mohammad Hossein , Sohrab Mehrnoush , Ansari-Moghadam Alireza , Edjtehadi Farhad , Esmaeili Ali , Joukar Farhad , Lotfi Mohammad Hasan , Aghamolaei Teamur , Eslami Saied , Tabatabaee Seyed Hamid Reza , Saki Nader , Haghdost Ali Akbar , Rezaei Satar
Published: March 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint from Research Square.
Echocardiography assessment of the left ventricle apical morphology and dynamics in patients with unexplainable deep T-wave inversion and apical wall thickness<15 mm
Authors: Lin Shengnan , Ruan Qinyun , Huang Chunyan , Yan Lei , Fu Liyun , Cai Huang'e
Published: March 2020

Background: There exists a group of patients with the same ECG characteristics as typical apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (AHCM) but fails to reach the diagnostic criteria. The objective of this study was to evaluate the apical morphological and dynamical features of this type of patients using echocardiography.Methods:A total of 30 subjects with unexplainable T-wave inversion (TWI) on ECG and apical myocardium thickness <15 mm by echocardiography were recruited. The apical morphological and dynamic features included the left ventricular (LV) apical-to-basal posterior wall thickness ratio (ABR), apical angle (apA) and its percentage change in cardiac cycle, peak blood flow velocity at the apical cavity (Vap) and its ratio to the velocity at LV outflow tract (Vap/VLVOT). The results were compared to those from 32 patients with typical AHCM, 44 with essential hypertension and 43 healthy controls.Results: Compared to healthy controls and hypertension patients, the suspected AHCM group had a significantly higher ABR (1.37±0.23 vs. 0.75±0.08 and 0.75±0.11, P<0.001), lower apAs, higher percent change of apA (74±23% vs. 16±8% and 28±13%, P<0.001) and higher Vap/VLVOT (0.5±0.3 vs. 0.3±0.1 and 0.3±0.1, P<0.05). Patients with typical AHCM had similar apAs and its change and significantly higher ABR (1.85±0.42, P<0.001) and Vap/VLVOT (0.8±0.5, p=0.009) than the suspected AHCM group.Conclusion: Apical morphology and dynamic features of subjects with TWI and LV apical thickness <15 mm were significantly different from healthy controls and hypertension patients, but shared similarities with typical AHCM patients. The results suggest this suspected group may be in an early stage or exhibit a mild phenotype of AHCM. With careful assessment and additional quantitative measurements, it is possible to detect this suspected AHCM group using echocardiography.
Early postpartum oral metoclopramide augments lactogenesis II in insulin-dependent mothers with gestational diabetes: a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Fok Doris , Chan Yiong Huak , Ho Jiahui , Rauff Mary HJ , Chan Yah Shih , Chong Yap Seng , Mattar Citra NZ
Published: March 2020

Background Mothers with gestational diabetes are at risk of lactogenesis II delayed beyond the third postnatal day and early breastfeeding cessation, which may be overcome by prophylactic intervention. Research aim To evaluate the effect of oral metoclopramide commenced within twelve hours of delivery on lactogenesis II in mothers with insulin-dependent (iGDM) or diet-controlled (dGDM) gestational diabetes. Methods Between July 2006 and January 2009, 73 mothers of term neonates (iGDM, n=20 and dGDM, n=53) were randomized to the metoclopramide (n=37) or placebo groups (n=36). Mothers with gestational diabetes in the intervention group received 30mg of oral metoclopramide daily for the first postnatal week in a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Primary outcome was lactogenesis II onset by postnatal day 3, while secondary outcomes included expressed human milk volumes (EHM) and exclusive breastfeeding rates and infant weight change.Results 40% more iGDM metoclopramide users achieved lactogenesis II by postnatal day 3 (p=0.01), with 4.8-fold EHM increase over controls (p=0.04); 50% of iGDM mothers perceived lactogenesis II onset by day 2 and more rapid EHM accumulation was observed in all metoclopramide users. Despite this, metoclopramide-users demonstrated less exclusive breastfeeding, earlier cessation and more frequent formula-feeding. Conclusions Short-term metoclopramide uses within the first 12 postnatal hours significantly improved daily EHM production and maternal perception of lactogenesis II onset in iGDM mothers. Treated iGDM mothers did not experience the natural EHM decrease of iGDM placebo-users. The low breastfeeding rate suggested that physiological breastfeeding barriers may not modifiable by metoclopramide or traditional lactation support.
Antimalarial activity of seed extracts of Schinus molle against plasmodium berghei in mice﻿
Authors: Mekuria Abebe Basazn , Geta Mestayet , Birru Eshetie Melese , Gelayee Desalegn Asmelashe
Published: March 2020

Background: Due to drug resistance and inefficient eradication techniques, malaria continues to be a major public health issue in countries with low- and middle-income. The seeds of Schinus molle are used in the Ethiopian folklore medicine for the treatment of malaria. However, this claim is not yet supported with scientific researches. Hence, the current study aims to investigate in vivo, antimalarial activity of hydro-alcoholic crude extract and subsequent solvent fraction of Schinus molle seeds on Plasmodium berghe infected mice.Methods: A hydro-alcoholic crude extract and solvent fractions (ethyl acetate, chloroform and aqueous) of Schinus molle seeds were tested at different doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg respectively ) to evaluate in vivo antimalarial activity of extracts in a 4-day suppressive, curative, and prophylaxis antimalarial test models. The parasitemia level, packed cell volume, survival of date, body weight, and body temperature were used to evaluate the anti-plasmodia activity of the extracts. One way ANOVA was employed to analyze these data, followed by post hoc Tukey’s HSD multiple comparison test.Results: The chemo-suppressive activities produced by the highest dose (400mg/kg) of crude extract and the aqueous fraction of Schinus molle seeds in the four-day suppressive test were 76.03% and 73.82%(p<0.001), respectively. In the curative test, the highest dose of crude and the aqueous fraction of Schinus molle seeds had 82.12% and 84.30% (p<0.001) suppression activity, respectively. The percentage of suppression in the prophylactic activities test of the aqueous fraction was 79.78% (p<0.001) at 400mg/kg compared to the negative control group. The studied plant extracts were likely anticipated to show rapid rectal temperature reduction and weight loss significantly. Among the extracts, only chloroform fraction has prevented the reduction of packed cell volume, due to the absence of saponin in the fraction. The mice which were treated with crude extract and aqueous fraction survived longer and gained net body weight as compared to vehicle-treated mice (p<0.001).Conclusion: The crude extract and aqueous fraction of Schinus molle seeds possessed significant antimalarial activity. These results collectively indicate that the plant has promising anti-plasmodial activity against Plasmodium berghei. However, further confirmatory studies followed by isolation and characterization of the active antimalarial compound are recommended.
Benefits of balneotherapy in the management of fibromyalgia syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cao Chun-Feng , Ma Kun-Long , Li Qian-Lu , Luan Fu-Jun , Wang Qun-Bo , Zhang Ming-Hua , Wang Hai Qiang
Published: March 2020

Objective To assess the effectiveness of balneotherapy (BT) in the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Methods The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed were thoroughly searched for relevant studies with a pre-specified searching strategy (from their inception to May 31 st , 2019), to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating BT in FMS management. The primary outcomes were pain, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Tender Points Count (TPC), Beck’s Depression Index (BDI). A meta-analysis was performed to identify risk ration (RR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) where appropriate, 95%CI with random-effect and consistent models. Results Ten RCT studies with 611 participants were included. Pooled results showed that BT can benefit FMS with significant improvement reflected as, pain (SMD= -0.90, 95%CI [−1.37 to −0.42] I 2 =86%), FIQ (SMD= −0.81, 95% CI [−1.24 to −0.38] I 2 =84%), TPC (SMD= −0.88, 95% CI [−1.63 to −0.14] I 2 =91%) and BDI (SMD= −0.29, 95% CI [−0.53 to −0.05] I 2 =22%) at the end of treatment. However, there was no significant effect on BDI (SMD= −0.57, 95% CI [−1.40 to 0.26]) at follow up. Conclusion Based on 12 to 48 weeks observation, pooled evidence from RCTs indicates BT may reduce pain and improve the quality of life of patients with FMS. Definitive, large-sample studies are needed, with focus on long-term results and maintenance of the beneficial effects.
Core clinical symptoms and heterogeneous manifestations of NS / LAH: three case reports and review of the literature
Authors: zhang qiang , Qin Zailong , Chen Shaoke , Fan Xin
Published: March 2020

Background Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair-a rare autosomal dominant disease with very clinical heterogeneity, is difficult to make clinical diagnosis in the earlier period. We identified the cause of disease with severely short stature by WES on three pediatric cases. Meanwhile, we summarized the clinical manifestations of these three patients and reviewed the literature of the syndrome. Case presentations We finally confirmed three cases of Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair (NS / LAH) (OMIM # 607721) and hotspot mutation in SHOC2 gene (OMIM# 602775), which both involved in the RAS-MAPK signaling pathway. The mutation located in chr10: 112724120, NM_007373.3, c.4A>G (p.Ser2Gly) is de-novo heterozygous in all patients. NS / LAH show some core clinical symptoms, such as craniofacial anomalies, short stature, weight loss, abnormal hair, growth retardation and heterogeneous manifestations (macrocephaly, GH deficiency, congenital heart disease, skin pigmentation, mental retardation, etc.). In the study, we have also proved that it is safe and feasible to apply rhGH treatent on Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair. Conclusions Through our effort, we have identified a rare disease in China. The molecular characteristics, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic measure were summarized so that it can help to clinicians a better understanding of the disease and offer patients effective and timely assistance.
Unresolved atelectasis in refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia: Predictive factors and the influence of corticosteroids and bronchoscopy lavage therapy
Authors: Liu Jianhua , Liu Jinrong , Wang Bei , Liu Yajing , Zhao Chengsong , Zhao Fei , Zhang Jianzhong , Zhao Shunying
Published: March 2020

Background Unresolved atelectasis occurs in some children with refractory mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP). The aim was to analyze factors predicting unresolved atelectasis in RMPP and the impact of corticosteroids and bronchoscopy lavage therapy (BLT) on developing atelectasis.Methods We retrospectively analyzed data for 230 pediatric RMPP from January 2013 to June 2017 in Beijing Children’s Hospital. In this study, we diagnosed RMPP when patients' clinical and radiological findings deteriorated after 7 days of macrolide therapy, peripheral blood C-reactive protein (CRP) was higher than 40mg/L, and chest imaging showed consolidation with high density > 1/2 pulmonary lobe. We divided patients into two groups according to the presence/absence of atelectasis on chest imaging after a 6-month follow-up. We calculated the predictive value of fever duration, levels of CRP and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and the size of lobe consolidation, regarding atelectasis. Additionally, we compared the starting time and dosage of corticosteroids and the starting time of BLT between the two groups.Results Ninety-five patients developed atelectasis (atelectasis group/group A), and 135 patients did not (non-atelectasis group/group NA). Chest imaging showed > 2/3 pulmonary lobe consolidation in 93.7% of patients in group A and 54.1% of patients in group NA. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that fever duration, CRP and LDH levels, and lobe consolidation were related to developing atelectasis. Areas under the curve revealed that CRP ≥ 137 mg/L had 82.11% sensitivity and 80.07% specificity, and LDH ≥ 471 IU/L had 62.65% sensitivity and 60.31% specificity to predict atelectasis. Fewer patients receiving corticosteroids and BLT within 10 days after illness onset developed atelectasis.Conclusions Fever duration>10 days, CRP and LDH levels, and lobe consolidation are risk factors for developing atelectasis in RMPP. CRP ≥ 137 mg/L, LDH ≥ 471 IU/L, and >2/3 pulmonary lobe consolidation were significant predictors of atelectasis, which can aid in early recognition. Corticosteroid administration and subsequent BLT within 10 days of the disease onset, and increased corticosteroid dosage may help reduce the incidence of atelectasis in these RMPP patients.
Serological markers and risk factors associated with Hepatitis B Virus infection among Federal Capital Territory Prison inmates, Nigeria: should we be concerned?
Authors: Nwafor Chioma Cindy Dan , Adeoye Ikeola , Aderemi Kehinde , Onuoha Martins , Adedire Elizabeth , Bashorun Adebobola , Osunkwo Damaris , Gidado Saheed , Balogun Muhammad , Idris Suleiman , Ade-Yusuf Ibrahim , Udom Ekpedeme , Nguku Patrick
Published: March 2020

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is hyper-endemic in Nigeria. Prisons are high-risk environments for the spread of blood-borne and sexually transmitted infections. Prevalence of HBV infection is disproportionately higher among individuals in correctional facilities worldwide when compared to general population. We determined the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with HBV infection among Kuje prison inmates, Nigeria.Methods: We conducted a prison facility based cross-sectional study. Interviewer administered questionnaires were used to obtain information on participants socio-demographic characteristics, HBV risk factors, previous HBV test and vaccination history. Blood samples collected from participants were analysed for HBsAg, HBsAb, HBcAb, HBeAg and HBeAb markers using rapid lateral chromatographic immunoassay kit. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis were performed.Results: A total of 271 inmates (63 convicts and 208 awaiting trial inmates) were recruited into the study as participants. The mean age of the participants was 32.7 SD±9 years. HBV sero-prevalence of 13.7%(95%CI;9.8-18.3) was found. 55.4%(95%CI;49.2-61.4) of inmates were susceptible to HBV infection, 20.7% (95%CI;16.0-26.0) had past or resolved HBV infection while 10.3%(95%CI; 7.0-14.6) had acquired natural or artificial HBV immunity. Factors found to be associated with HBV infection include age-group ≤25years (aOR=8.0;95%CI:2.9-22.3), being ever married (aOR=4.2;95%CI:1.7-10.4) and history of alcohol consumption (aOR=3.4; 95%CI:1.3-8.4).Conclusion: This study reveals a high seroprevalence of HBV infection among Kuje Prison inmates, hence the need to introduce prison-focused health intervention initiatives such as HBV screening, vaccination and care to reduce the transmission of HBV infection among inmates and ultimately the general population.
Self-Esteem in Adolescents: A Two-Wave Time-Lag Study across the Iron Curtain
Authors: Antonson Carl , Thorsén Frida , Berg Rada , Palmér Karolina , Mutafchieva Milena , Koltcheva Nadia , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: March 2020

Background: The aim was to conduct a time-lag study on how democracy and dictatorship may influence self-esteem in adolescents. Methods: Adolescents (aged 15-16) from Sweden and Bulgaria were compared using the ‘I Think I Am’ questionnaire measuring self-esteem 1989-1991 (T1) when Bulgaria was a communistic dictatorship and Sweden a parliamentary democracy and 2015-16 (T2) when both countries were democracies. Results: The lower global self-esteem in Bulgaria compared to Sweden at T1 equalised at T2, which mainly was related to the sub-scales ‘ Relations with others’ and ‘ Psychological well-being ’. Both global self-esteem and ‘ Relations with others ’ had a significant interaction between time and country, indicating that the country differences in self-esteem were modified by time, i.e. our proxy for governance. The differences that existed between the sexes in Sweden at T1 equalised at T2. The girls in both countries had lower results in the sub-scale ‘ Psychological well-being ’ than the boys at both time-points. Conclusion: The prior differences in self-esteem between a democracy and a communistic dictatorship equalised over a generation of democracy. We suggest that the amelioration self-esteem in the former dictatorship is due to decrease of social stressors. This lower self-esteem related to others could be seen as ‘Dictatorship damage’.
Performance of Mattis dementia rating scale-Chinese Version in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: QIAN Shuxia , CHEN Keliang , GUAN Qiaobing , Guo Qihao
Published: March 2020

Objective: To identify the applicability of the Chinese Version of Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS-CV).Methods: The DRS-CV was administered to 483 participants, including 136 normal controls, 167 patients with mild cognition impairment (MCI), and 180 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the scale.Results: The scores of DRS-CV were ranked in the order of NC >MCI > mild AD > moderate AD group. Memory was the sensitive function affected at a relatively earlier stage of AD. ROC curve analysis indicated the DRS-CV total score and memory subscale showed excellent sensitivity and specificity in the discrimination between MCI from mild AD and mild AD from moderate AD, but poor sensitivity and specificity in the discrimination between MCI and NC.Conclusion: The DRS-CV is useful to the early diagnosis and severity of AD, not to the early identification of MCI.
CyberKnife and EDGE in stereotactic body radiotherapy for pancreas cancer: a comparison of plan quality﻿
Authors: Dai Zhitao , Ma Li , Cao Tingting , Zhu Lian , Zhao Man , Wang Zhenguo , Li Ning
Published: March 2020

Purpose: To perform a comprehensive comparison of the different stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) plans between the Varian EDGE and CyberKnife (CK) systems for pancreas cancer.Materials and methods: Fifteen patients with pancreas cancer were selected in this study. The median planning target volume (PTV) was 28.688cm 3 (5.736 to 49.246 cm 3 ). The SBRT plans for the EDGE and CK were generated in the Eclipse and Multiplan systems respectively with the same contouring and dose constrains for PTV and organ at risk (OAR). Dose distributions in PTV were evaluated in terms of coverage, conformity index (CI), new conformity index (nCI), homogeneity index (HI), and gradient index (GI). OARs, including spinal cord, bowel, stomach, duodenum and kidneys were statistically evaluated by different dose-volume metrics and equivalent uniform dose (EUD) . The volume covered by the different isodose lines (ISDL) ranging from 10% to 100% for normal tissue were also analyzed.Results: All SBRT plans for EDGE and CK met the clinical requirement for PTV and OARs. . For the PTV, the dosimetric metrics in EDGE plans were lower than that in CK, except that D 99 and GI were slightly higher. The EDGE plans with lower CI , nCI and HI were superior to offer the better conformity and homogeneity for PTV. For the normal tissue, the CK plans were better at OARs sparing. The radiobiological indices EUD of spinal cord, duodenum, stomach, and kidneys were lower for CK plans, except that liver were higher. The volumes of normal tissue covered by medium ISDLs (with range of 20%~70%) were lower for CK plans while that covered by high and low ISDLs were lower for EDGE plans.Conclusions: This study indicated that both EDGE and CK generated equivalent plan quality, and both systems can be considered as beneficial techniques for SBRT of pancreas cancer. EDGE plans offered the better conformity and homogeneity of dose distributions for PTV, while the CK plans could minimize the exposure of OARs.
Landscape Performance of Buck Roses under Minimal-input Conditions in North-central Texas
Authors: Harp Derald , Hammond Gaye , Zlesak David C. , Church Greg , Chamblee Mark , George Steve
Published: March 2020

Griffith Buck (Iowa State University) bred roses (Rosa sp.) to survive long, cold winters and hot, humid summers yet still retain their foliage without fungicides. Unfortunately, there is little known about the performance of Buck roses in the southern United States. Thirty-eight Buck rose cultivars were evaluated for flowering, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and overall landscape performance in alkaline soils with no fertilizer, no pesticides, and only limited irrigation. Flowering occurred on a bimodal basis, with the highest per plant mean bloom number (16.3 blooms) and bloom coverage (9.7%) in April, and a second flowering in the fall, with 13.7 blooms per plant and 6.9% bloom coverage in October. Drought stress symptoms were most evident in October, with a wide range of symptom severity across cultivars. Black spot (Diplocarpon rosae) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera pannosa) incidence were rare across all roses and years. Landscape performance scores, rated using a 0 to 10 scale with 10 representing a perfect plant and 0 a dead plant, were highest in April (6.5) and lowest in June (4.6) and July (4.6). Landscape performance was not correlated with bloom number or coverage. While unable to recommend many of the Buck roses for north-central Texas, the cultivars April Moon and Freckles, and possibly a few other roses, can join Carefree Beauty™ (BUCbi) as recommended roses for the area.
Scaling of Mood-State and Sample Cases Causing Anger in a Relationship with Rank-Order Judgment and Classifying Judgment
Authors: YILDIRIM SEHERYELİ Merve , ANIL Duygu
Published: March 2020

This study is a survey study which aims to determine underlying causes of anger and the anger levels of individuals, in the sample cases and mood-states defined in the research. 255 people participated by filling in forms developed by the researcher. They were asked to rank 6 mood-state expressions between 1 and 6, to classify 23 sample case expressions between 1 and 4. Using Microsoft Office Excel 2016, responses given to mood-state expressions were examined with rank-order and given to sample case expressions were examined with classifying judgment with respect to gender and marital status. The findings of rank-order judgment scaling revealed that all participants get angry most when they are treated unfairly and they get angry least when they are criticized. It was also found that females got angry more at being neglected, and males got angry more at arrogance and mistrust. It was concluded that married people got angry more at being neglected; unmarrieds got angry more at mistrust. The findings of classifying judgment scaling showed that all participants get angry the most when unnecessary and offending comments are made about their families. They get angry the least when their partners are fan of any subject. It also has been seen that married participants chose ‘Ignoring the subjects that I care about’ the most and those who are unmarried chose ‘Making unnecessary and offending comments about my family’ the most.
Modern approaches to improving the quality of medical care for premature children in Moscow health care
Authors: Osmanov I. M. , Mironova A. K. , Zaplatnikov A. L.
Published: March 2020

This article is devoted to the issue of nursing and further monitoring of children born with very low and extremely low body weight. The article presents the data of international statistics and seven-year experience of the Rehabilitation Center for children born with very low and extremely low body weight, based on a large multidisciplinary children’s hospital. The authors pay particular attention to improvement of medical care of children born with very low and extremely low body weight.
Promising Gene Therapy Using an Adenovirus Vector Carrying REIC/Dkk-3 Gene for the Treatment of Biliary Cancer
Authors: Tanaka Emi , Uchida Daisuke , Shiraha Hidenori , Kato Hironari , Ohyama Atsushi , Iwamuro Masaya , Watanabe Masami , Kumon Hiromi , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: March 2020

Background:

We previously demonstrated that the reduced expression in immortalized
cells (REIC)/dikkopf-3 (Dkk-3) gene was downregulated in various malignant tumors, and that an adenovirus
vector carrying the REIC/Dkk-3 gene, termed Ad-REIC induced cancer-selective apoptosis
in pancreatic cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Objective:

In this study, we examined the therapeutic effects of Ad-REIC in biliary cancer using a second-
generation Ad-REIC (Ad-SGE-REIC).

Methods:

Human biliary cancer cell lines (G-415, TFK-1) were used in this study. The cell viability
and apoptotic effect of Ad-SGE-REIC were assessed in vitro using an MTT assay and Hoechst staining.
The anti-tumor effect in vivo was assessed in a mouse xenograft model. We also assessed the
therapeutic effects of Ad-SGE-REIC therapy with cisplatin. Cell signaling was assessed by Western
blotting.

Results:

Ad-SGE-REIC reduced cell viability, and induced apoptosis in biliary cancer cell lines via
the activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway. Ad-SGE-REIC also inhibited tumor growth in a
mouse xenograft model. This effect was further enhanced in combination with cisplatin.

Conclusions:

Ad-SGE-REIC induced apoptosis and inhibited tumor growth in biliary cancer cells.
REIC/Dkk-3 gene therapy using Ad-SGE-REIC is an attractive therapeutic tool for biliary cancer.
Eosinophils, a Jack of All Trades in Immunity: Therapeutic Approaches for Correcting Their Functional Disorders
Authors: Magrone Thea , Magrone Manrico , Jirillo Emilio
Published: March 2020

Background:

Eosinophils are primitive myeloid cells derived from bonemarrow precursors and require the intervention of interleukin (IL)-5 for their survival and persistence in blood and tissues. Under steady-state conditions, they contribute to immune regulation and homeostasis. Under pathological circumstances, eosinophils are involved in host protection against parasites and participate in allergy and inflammation.

Discussion:

Mostly, in asthma, eosinophils provoke airway damage via the release of granule contents and IL-13 with mucus hypersecretion and differentiation of goblet cells. Then, tissue remodeling follows with the secretion of transforming growth factor-β. Eosinophils are able to kill helminth larvae acting as antigen-presenting cells with the involvement of T helper (h)-2 cells and subsequent antibody response. However, they also exert pro-worm activity with the production of suppressive cytokine (IL- 10 and IL-4) and inhibition of nitric oxide. Eosinophils may play a pathogenic role in the course of chronic and autoimmune disease, e.g., inflammatory bowel disease and eosinophilic gastroenteritis, regulating Th2 responses and promoting a profibrotic effect. In atopic dermatitis, eosinophils are commonly detected and may be associated with disease severity. In cutaneous spontaneous urticaria, eosinophils participate in the formation of wheals, tissue remodeling and modifications of vascular permeability. With regard to tumor growth, it seems that IgE can exert anti-neoplastic surveillance via mast cell and eosinophil-mediated cytotoxicity, the so-called allergo-oncology. From a therapeutic point of view, monoclonal antibodies directed against IL-5 or the IL-5 receptors have been shown to be very effective in patients with severe asthma. Finally, as an alternative treatment, polyphenols for their anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities seem to be effective in reducing serum IgE and eosinophil count in bronchoalveolar lavage in murine asthma.

Conclusion:

Eosinophils are cells endowed with multiple functions and their modulation with monoclonal antibodies and nutraceuticals may be effective in the treatment of chronic disease.
Association of Interleukin-1 and Inteleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Gene Polymorphisms with Multiple Sclerosis in Azeri Population of Iran
Authors: Asgharzadeh Mohammad , Jigheh Zahra A. , Kafil Hossein S. , Farhoudi Mehdi , Oskouei Daryoush S. , Khaki-Khatibi Fatemeh , Fadaee Manouchehr , Vegari Ali , Asgharzadeh Vahid , Najafi-Ghalelou Nima , Poor Behroz M. , Rashedi Jalil
Published: March 2020

Background:

Cytokines as important mediators have a critical role in appropriate immune
responses, the irregular production of which can lead to Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Proinflammatory
cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) triggers inflammatory responses. Function and production of the cytokine
are influenced by IL-1 coding gene polymorphism and those antagonists gene polymorphism.

Objective:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible correlation between MS and IL-1
related alleles in Azeri population of Iran.

Methods:

Variable number tandem repeats (VNTR) genotypes of 150 MS patients and 220 healthy
non-relative controls were determined.

Result:

n the healthy controls, genotype TT at IL-1A (-889) location was significantly higher than
the MS patients (p=0.0001). However, a significant difference was not found between the two groups
in genotypic/allelic frequency at IL- 1B+ 3953 location. Evaluation of the IL-1RA gene revealed that
genotype 1/2, and genotype 1/3 were significantly higher in the healthy controls and MS patients, respectively.
Our findings indicated that the consumption of fast-food in MS patients was significantly
higher than controls (p= <0.05). Also, a considerable number of MS patients had inappropriate dieting
behaviors such as not eating breakfast (p= 0.0001), and irregular eating habits (p= 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Polymorphisms of the IL-1B genes and common alleles of IL-1RA were not considered
as risk factors for MS disease. However, genotype TT at IL-1A (-889) location and the rare allele of
IL-1RA3 can be a potential risk factor for the disease. Furthermore, inappropriate dieting behaviors
and consumption of fast-food can increase the risk of MS.
A New Approach to Design and Implementation of 2-Input XOR Gate Using 4-Transistor
Authors: Maity Heranmoy
Published: March 2020

Aim:

This paper proposed the design and implementation of a 2-input XOR gate using 4-
transistor.

Method:

The XOR gate can be designed using NOT gate and 2:1 multiplexer. The NOT gate is designed
using two metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors MOSFETs and an approximate
2:1 multiplexer. The 2:1 multiplexer is designed using two MOSFETs. So, an XOR gate can be designed
using four transistors.

Results:

The proposed work theoretically and experimentally describes the 2-input XOR gate using 4-
transistor. The proposed work was verified using Xilinx (ISE Design Suite).
Primair glaucoom bij de hond: een overzicht van bestaande therapieën en het onderzoek naar toekomstige mogelijkheden
Authors: Frejlich M. , Capiau E. , Van Ham L.
Published: March 2020

De chirurgische aanpak is gericht op het wijzigen van de productie of drainage van kamerwater of een combinatie van beide. Verhoogde intraoculaire druk is een constante risicofactor; deze factor aanpakken vertegenwoordigt het enige behandelbare en meetbare element in termen van succesvolle glaucoombehandeling. De optimale kandidaat voor chirurgie is in staat om te zien, bevindt zich in een vroeg stadium van de ziekte en heeft een normale papil zonder bijkomende aandoeningen. Honden die een hoge oogdruk behouden ondanks maximale geneesmiddelniveaus komen ook in aanmerking. Alhoewel het aanbod aan medicinale en chirurgische therapiemogelijkheden blijft groeien, bestaat er tot nog toe geen succesvolle remedie en worden veel aangetaste honden op termijn blind. Wegens een vaak oncontroleerbare en pijnlijke oogdruk wordt regelmatig enucleatie uitgevoerd. Omdat de ontwikkeling van nieuwe medicijnen moeizaam verloopt en de humane geneesmiddelen vaak niet effectief zijn bij honden, zal het streven naar verbeterde en vernieuwde chirurgische opties in de nabije toekomst het meest lonend zijn.