bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zur Förderung der pragmatisch-diskursiven Kompetenz im philologischen Fremdsprachenunterricht. Beispiel ‚sprachliche Höflichkeit‘
Authors: Pieklarz-Thien Magdalena
Published: January 2021

Das Ziel des Beitrags ist es, einige Aspekte der Förderung der pragmatisch-diskursiven Kompetenz im philologischen Sprachunterricht zu diskutieren. Am Beispiel der sprachlichen Höflichkeit, die ein pragmatisches und diskursives Phänomen ist, wird aufgezeigt, dass der philologische Sprachunterricht stärker als der Sprachunterricht in anderen Lehr- und Lernkontexten das Augenmerk auf die Sprachverwendung (parole) und die damit verbundene pragmatische und diskursive Wissensvermittlung lenken muss. Vor diesem Hintergrund wird überlegt, wie die kommunikative Bewusstheit sowie pragmatisch-diskursive Kompetenz im philologischen Sprachunterricht gefördert werden können.
TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS DE INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO NO ENSINO DA LÍNGUA PORTUGUESA
Authors: Santos David Ricardo
Published: January 2021

Resumo: O contexto social atual de pandemia e distanciamento social provocado pela COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), expôs a necessidade de intensificar o trabalho pedagógico de leitura com a utilização de diferentes recursos tecnológicos e o auxílio das Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação. Este artigo tem como objetivo geral compreender o modo como as ferramentas de Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação (TDIC) podem contribuir para os processos de ensino e de aprendizagem da Língua Portuguesa de alunos inseridos no 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental. O uso das metodologias digitais é fundamental para que os alunos tenham acesso ao ensino em um período onde encontram-se impedidos de frequentar as escolas de maneira presencial. A análise realizada no sistema Aula Paraná evidenciou a inserção e o uso de tecnologias para o ensino da literatura. Espera-se que este artigo auxilie os professores na inserção destes espaços digitais motivando-os ao ensino dos diferentes gêneros da literatura com o auxílio de metodologias tecnológicas.
 
Palavras-chave: Ensino Língua Portuguesa. Tecnologia no Ensino Aprendizagem. Leitura.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of electromyostimulation of pelvic floor muscles in combination with Kegel exercises on the state of genital prolapse in women
Authors: Teleeva G. I. , Tselkovich L. S. , Balter R. B. , Ivanova T. V. , Ibragimova A. R. , Ilchenko O. A. , Pribytkov D. L.
Published: January 2021

The paper considers the results of therapy of clinical manifestations of genital prolapse using electromyosymmulation and Kegel exercises. The obtained data allow us to consider this type of conservative treatment quite effective. This therapy can be recommended for women with contraindications to surgical correction of prolapse.
Grapevine double cropping: a reality, not a myth
Authors: Martínez de Toda Fernando
Published: January 2021

The main drawback of the forcing vine regrowth technique is the loss of yield (Martínez de Toda, 2020). In order to avoid such loss of yield and not eliminate the primary clusters already formed on the primary shoots, it is possible to force the development of the latent buds of the fifth and sixth nodes, while maintaining the clusters on the main shoots. In this way, the yield of the forced buds can be added to the normal or primary yield of the shoots. In this article, experiments carried out on Grenache, Tempranillo and Maturana Tinta varieties in La Rioja (Spain) are presented.
Implementation of financial report and taxation training: performance of MSMEs in Special Regions Yogyakarta
Authors: Resmi Siti , Pahlevi Reza Widhar , Sayekti Fran
Published: January 2021

This study aims to determine and analyze the application of financial report and taxation training for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as well as any constraints faced ahead. This study observed 25 MSMEs in Special Region of Yogyakarta using a convenience sampling method. The data used are primary data obtained through interviews and focus group discussions. This research used qualitative analysis techniques. The result shows that MSMEs did not keep records because it was difficult and inconvenient. It also found that MSMEs have a tax ID number (NPWP) but did not pay and report their taxes. Tax is perceived as an expense which results in a reduced profit. However, financial reports and knowledge of taxation are required when applying for bank loans and obtaining government incentive funds. With training in the preparation of financial and tax reports, MSMEs are aware of the importance of financial and tax reports. Financial reports, NPWP, and tax return (SPT) filling are factors that can improve their business performance.
A Newly Developed Synbiotic Yogurt Prevents Diabetes by Improving the Microbiome-Intestine-Pancreas Axis
Authors: Miller Brandi , Mainali Rabina , Nagpal Ravinder , Yadav Hariom
Published: January 2021

The prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is increasing worldwide and there are no long-term preventive strategies to stop this growth. Emerging research shows that perturbations in the gut microbiome significantly contribute to the development of T2D, while microbiome modulators may be beneficial for T2D prevention. However, microbiome modulators that are effective, safe, affordable, and able to be integrated daily in the diet are not yet available. Based on our previous pro- and prebiotic studies, we developed a novel synbiotic yogurt comprised of human-origin probiotics and plant-based prebiotics and investigated its impact on diet- and streptozotocin-induced T2D in mice. We compared the effects of our synbiotic yogurt to those of a commercially-available yogurt (control yogurt). Interestingly, we found that feeding of this synbiotic yogurt significantly reduced the development of hyperglycemia (diabetes) in response to high-fat diet feeding and streptozotocin compared to milk-fed controls. Surprisingly, the control yogurt exacerbated diabetes progression. Synbiotic yogurt beneficially modulated the composition of gut microbiota compared to milk; conversely, the control yogurt negatively modulated the gut microbiota by significantly increasing the abundance of detrimental bacteria like Proteobacteria and Enterobacteriaceae. In addition, the synbiotic yogurt protected intact pancreatic islet morphology compared to the milk control, while the commercial yogurt demonstrated worse effects on pancreatic physiology. These results suggest that our newly developed synbiotic yogurt protects against diabetes in mice and can be used as a modality to prevent diabetes progression.
Critical Thinking: A Model of Intelligence for Solving Real-world Problems
Authors: Halpern Diane F. , Dunn Dana S.
Published: January 2021

Most traditional theories of intelligence have little to do with the question of whether people with high intelligence can successfully address real world problems. A high IQ is correlated with many important outcomes (e.g., academic prominence, reduced crime), but it does not protect against cognitive biases, partisan thinking, reactance, confirmation bias, and even falling for discredited beliefs such as alchemy, cold fusion, and astrology. There are several newer theories that directly address the question about solving real-world problems. Prominent among them is Sternberg’s adaptive intelligence with “adaptation to the environment” as the central premise, a construct that does not exist on standardized IQ tests (e.g., Sternberg, 2019). Similarly, Stanovich and West (2014) argue that standardized tests of intelligence are not measures of rational thought—the sort of skill/ability that would be needed to address complex real-world problems. Halpern and Butler (2020) advocate for critical thinking as a better model of intelligence for addressing real-world problems than those that are based on psychometric properties of general intelligence. Yes, intelligence (i.e., critical thinking) can be enhanced and used for solving a real-world problem like Covid-19, which we use as an example of contemporary problems that need a new approach. Critical thinking may be an antidote for the chaos of the modern world.
Pengaruh Islamic Branding, Kualitas Produk, dan Lifestyle terhadap Minat Pembelian Produk Skincare pada Generasi Millenial di Kabupaten Kudus
Authors: Kusuma Aryanti Muhtar , Hikmah Maulida Ainul , Marom Aufarul
Published: January 2021

Skincare products become one of beauty products need for increasing beauty and facial health. Needs in fulfiling facial care including economic treatment change on Millenial Generation. Bassed on fenomenon, this research is aimed to know islamic branding, product quality, and lifestyle to interest of  skincare product purchase to Millenial Generation in Kudus Regency. Analysing methode use is kuantitatife research with multiple linier regression  technique using SPSS’16. Sampling used is non probability sampling and purposive sampling. Research result shows that Islamic branding has signifcant influence to purchase of skincare product, products quality  have signifcant influence to purchase of skincare product, and lifestyle has signifcant influence to purchase of skincare products.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Increases Peritonsillar Abscess Susceptibility: Real-World Evidence
Authors: Wu Ching-Lung , Tsai Ming-Shao , Lee Ta-Jen , Wang Yun-Ting , Liu Chia-Yen , Yang Yao-Hsu , Tsai Yao-Te , Hsu Cheng-Ming , Wu Ching-Yuan , Chang Pey-Jium , Chang Geng-He
Published: January 2021

Objectives. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a risk factor for deep neck infection (DNI) and leads to complications and poor outcomes. Our study aimed to investigate the risk, prognosis, and complications of peritonsillar abscess (PTA) in patients with T2DM.Methods. We extracted data of patients newly diagnosed as having T2DM between January 2000 and December 2011 from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database. These patients were matched with patients without T2DM, and PTA incidence was compared between both cohorts.Results. In total, 67,852 patients with and 135,704 patients without T2DM were enrolled. PTA incidence was significantly higher in patients with T2DM (incidence rate ratio, 1.91; P<0.001); moreover, PTA incidence was higher at 1 to 5 years after T2DM diagnosis than at <1 and >5 years after T2DM diagnosis. Cox regression analysis showed that patients with T2DM had an approximately 2-fold higher PTA risk (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.89, P<0.001). Patients with a higher adapted Diabetes Complications Severity Index (aDCSI) had higher PTA risk than those with a lower aDCSI (aHRs: 2.17 for aDCSI ≥1, P=0.006 and 1.81 for aDCSI=0, P=0.002). T2DM patients with a high aDCSI (≥1) had a nonsignificantly longer hospitalization duration and a higher rate of DNI complications than did those with a low aDCSI (=0).Conclusion. In patients with T2DM, PTA incidence was relatively high, and it increased with T2DM severity. Moreover, T2DM patients should be particularly careful about PTA within 1 to 5 years after the diagnosis, and physicians should keep in mind that the prognosis of PTA was correlated with T2DM severity.
Accessory Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon Discovered During Achilles Tendon Reconstruction
Authors: Kiblen Joe , Christensen Clay , Abidi Nicholas A.
Published: January 2021

Case:

We present 2 cases of Achilles reconstruction using flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer for the augmentation of Achilles surgical repair during which the patients were noted to have accessory FHL tendons. Structure identification in the posterior ankle is important because the neurovascular bundle is in close proximity to the FHL; knowledge of the anatomy of variations is helpful, and 2 cases of accessory tendon variation are reported.

Conclusions:

Achilles tears are typically primarily repaired. Some patients may require augmentation with allograft or autograft transfer of the FHL tendon. Accessory FHL tendons discovered during posterior approach to the Achilles has not been described in the literature.
3D-Printed Surgical Guiding System for Double Derotational Osteotomy in Congenital Torsional Limb Deformity
Authors: Sabatini Luigi , Nicolaci Giulia , Giachino Matteo , Risitano Salvatore , Pautasso Andrea , Massè Alessandro
Published: January 2021

Case:

A 19-year-old woman with persistent anterior knee pain was diagnosed with a complex tibial and femoral torsional deformity (26° of femoral anteversion and 49° of tibial external rotation). To achieve the correct realignment of the lower limb, rotational double osteotomies were needed. After planning the correction on the computed tomography scan and three-dimensional (3D) model, a custom-made 3D-printed guiding system was produced to support the surgery.

Conclusion:

The 3D-printed planning model and the surgical guiding system are crucial elements to achieve optimal results for complex malalignment cases. The “tailored” guides led to a perfect match between the planned correction and the intraoperative result.
Triassic-Jurassic Granitoids and Pegmatites from Western Kunlun-Pamir Syntax: Implications for the Paleo-Tethys Evolution at the Northern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Xiao-Qiang , Zhang Chuan-Lin , Zou Haibo , Wang Qian , Hao Xiao-Shu , Zhao Hai-Xiang , Ye Xian-Tao
Published: January 2021

The Western Kunlun-Pamir-Karakorum (WKPK) at the northwestern Tibetan Plateau underwent long-term terrane accretion from the Paleozoic to the Cenozoic. Within this time span, four phases of magmatism occurred in WKPK during the Early Paleozoic, Triassic-Jurassic, Early Cretaceous, and Cenozoic. These voluminous magmatic rocks contain critical information on the evolution of the Tethys Oceans. In this contribution, we provide field observations, petrography, ages, whole-rock elemental and Sr-Nd isotopic compositions, and zircon in situ Lu-Hf isotopes of the Triassic-Jurassic granitoids and pegmatites from the Dahongliutan in Western Kunlun and Turuke area at the Pamir Plateau, in an attempt to constrain their petrogenesis and to decipher a more detailed Paleo-Tethys evolution process. The Dahongliutan pluton is composed of diorites (ca. 210 Ma) and monzogranite (ca. 200 Ma). The diorites have moderate SiO2 (56.77–62.22 wt. %), variable Mg# (46–49), and low Cr (34.4–50.6 ppm) and Ni contents (7.0–14.5 ppm). They show LREE-enriched patterns (LaN/YbN=4.3–17), with variable negative Eu anomalies (0.63–0.91) and variable ratios of Nb/La (0.27–0.97). Isotopically, the diorites display enriched whole-rock εNdt (-5.43 to -7.67) and negative to positive zircon εHft values (-6.6 to 0.4). They were most likely generated by melting of a subduction-modified mantle source with subsequent assimilation and fractional crystallization. The Turuke monzogranites (ca. 202–197 Ma) have S-type granite characteristics and are characterized by high SiO2 (70.36–76.12 wt. %) and A/CNK values (1.19–1.36), variable LREE-enriched patterns (LaN/YbN=8.87–14.40), negative Eu anomaly (0.07–0.56), relatively uniform whole-rock εNdt (-10.49 to -11.22), and variable negative zircon εHft values (-10.7 to -1.3). They were probably generated by muscovite-dehydration melting of dominantly metapelitic sources. The widespread pegmatites (ca. 195 Ma) at the Dahongliutan area record an extensional setting after the collision of Karakorum with the South Kunlun-Tianshuihai terrane. Combining our new data with the previous studies, we propose a divergent double-sided subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean (243–208 Ma) and a gradual closure of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean from east (ca. 200 Ma) to west (ca. 180 Ma) to explain the Triassic-Jurassic tectono-magmatism in the WKPK.
Horner Analysis for Negative Inflow Tests of Well Barriers
Authors: Peyton James , Salamaga Joanna , McPhee Aaron , Jongejan Arthur
Published: January 2021

Negative tests, or inflow tests, are conducted to verify the integrity of well barriers in the direction of potential flow, subjecting a barrier to a negative pressure differential, while monitoring for signs of a leak. A common practice is to observe the rate of flowback from the well. Flowback may be a sign of a leak due to an influx of formation fluids into the well. However, even when there is no leak, flowback is commonly observed due to thermal expansion of wellbore fluids. Heat transfer will occur between the wellbore fluids in each annulus and with the surrounding formation until temperatures reach an equilibrium. This behavior is described by the process of thermal diffusion, with the resulting temperature increase causing expansion of wellbore fluids and flowback from the well.

Industry guidelines state “Horner” analysis may be used when monitoring flowback or pressure buildup during an inflow test. In doing so, engineers and wellsite supervisors may use a “Horner plot” to determine if flowback or pressure buildup is attributable to thermal effects. Those without a reservoir engineering background may not be aware the method was originally derived from a radial flow equation for the purpose of monitoring pressure buildup in a well when shut in after a period of production. The apparent similarity of the radial flow and thermal diffusion equations is what led Horner's technique to subsequently be applied to the prediction of static formation temperature from well logs. However, although thermal expansion is a function of formation temperature, Horner analysis of flowback or pressure buildup during an inflow test has remained a black box that is poorly understood.

For the first time, with support from empirical data from offshore wells, we reveal that Horner analysis of thermal expansion is a practice without theoretical justification. The radial equation on which Horner analysis depends, along with the constraints implied by the boundary conditions, fails to accurately account for the conditions of an inflow test. As a result, the method should not be used for analyzing flowback or pressure buildup during an inflow test. Instead, a new method is proposed to interpret a trend of flowback when monitoring well barriers. The findings of this study can help improve understanding Horner analysis and techniques for interpreting inflow tests.
Effect of Hope-Oriented Group Counseling on Mental Health of Infertile Women with Failed IVF Cycles: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rahimi Roya , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Esmaeilpour Khalil , Hasanpour Shirin
Published: January 2021

Background Considering the prevalence of infertility in the community and the consequences of failure of infertility treatments on women's mental health, interventions that can control stress, anxiety and depression in infertile women with a history of IVF failure will be very helpful. This study aimed to determine the effects of hope-oriented group counseling on mental health (primary outcome) and quality of life (QoL) (secondary outcome) of women with failed IVF cycles.Method This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 60 women with failed IVF cycles visiting Infertility Clinic at Al-Zahra Teaching Hospital of Tabriz- Iran. Participants were allocated to the intervention group (n = 30) and control group (n = 30) based on a randomized block design. Hope-oriented group counseling was provided to the intervention group in six 45–60 minute sessions (once a week). The control group only received routine care to undergo another IVF cycle. The author filled out the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and the SF-12 Quality of Life Scale by interviewing the participants before the intervention and one week and one month after the intervention.Results There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in the socio-demographic profile of participants (P > 0.05). The post-intervention mean score of stress (modified mean difference=-1.7, 95% confidence interval: -3.2 to 0.3, P = 0.018) and depression (modified mean difference=-1.3, 95% confidence interval: -4.7 to -1.5, P < 0.001) was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control. Although the mean anxiety score was lower in the intervention group compared to the control, the difference between them was not statistically significant (modified mean difference= -1.1, 95% confidence interval: -2.6 to 0.4, P = 0.153). The mean score of QoL was significantly higher in the intervention group than that of the control group (modified mean difference= -1.1, 95% confidence interval: 5.1 to 8.8, P < 0.001).Conclusion Hope-oriented group counseling was effective in reducing stress and depression and improving QoL in women with failed IVF cycles. It is recommended to use this counseling approach, along with other methods, to improve the mental health of women with failed IVF cycles.Trial Registration TCT Registration Number: TCTR 20191017003, registered on October 17, 2019 (http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th/index.php?tp=regtrials&menu=trialsearch&smenu=fulltext&task=search&task2=view1&id=5369)
Technology Readiness Levels for Machine Learning Systems
Authors: Lavin Alexander , Lee Ciarán , Visnjic Alessya , Ganju Siddha , Newman Dava , Ganguli Sujoy , Lange Danny , Baydin Atilim Gunes , Xing Eric , Gibson Adam , Sharma Amit , Gal Yarin , Parr James
Published: January 2021

The development and deployment of machine learning (ML) systems can be executed easily with modern tools, but the process is typically rushed and means-to-an-end. The lack of diligence can lead to technical debt, scope creep and misaligned objectives, model misuse and failures, and expensive consequences. Engineering systems, on the other hand, follow well-defined processes and testing standards to streamline development for high-quality, reliable results. The extreme is spacecraft systems, where mission critical measures and robustness are ingrained in the development process. Drawing on experience in both spacecraft engineering and ML (from research through product across domain areas), we have developed a proven systems engineering approach for machine learning development and deployment. Our Machine Learning Technology Readiness Levels (MLTRL) framework defines a principled process to ensure robust, reliable, and responsible systems while being streamlined for ML workflows, including key distinctions from traditional software engineering. Even more, MLTRL defines a lingua franca for people across teams and organizations to work collaboratively on artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. Here we describe the framework and elucidate it with several real world use-cases of developing ML methods from basic research through productization and deployment, in areas such as medical diagnostics, consumer computer vision, satellite imagery, and particle physics.
Dietary, Physical Exercises and Mental Stress in A Chinese Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Li Xiaona , Tian Dan , Qin Pei , Guo Wen , Lu Jing , Zhu Wenfang , Zhang Qun , Wang Jianming
Published: January 2021

Background: Mental health is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. However, previous studies have showed conflict findings about the role of lifestyle. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between diet, exercise, and mental health, as well as factors related to mental stress.Methods: We recruited 8160 residents who had health examinations in a public hospital during June 2016 to May 2018.Demographic characteristics, diet, exercises, and mental health status. was collected by a questionnaire. We estimated the association using the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) based on Binary or ordinal logistic regression models. A classification and regression tree (CART) demonstrated the prediction of the value of a target variable based on other values.Results: Fried food intake, male, unmarried state, and aged ≤43 were associated with increased risks of mental stress while consuming more fresh vegetables or fruits showed a protective effect. The ordinal logistic regression model showed that increased consumption of meat (OR=1.50, 95% CI: 1.33-1.68), dessert (OR=1.24, 95% CI: 1.08-1.43) and pickled or smoked food (OR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.08-1.35) in males and increased consumption of dessert (OR=1.20, 95% CI: 1.05-1.38), pickled or smoked food (OR=1.14, 95% CI: 1.01-1.29), quitting smoking (OR=2.99, 95% CI: 1.14-7.85), quitting drinking (OR=2.42, 95% CI: 1.65-3.54), and drinking (OR=1.47, 95% CI: 1.21-1.79) in females are related to mental stress. Conclusions: Our study showed that both diet and behaviors were associated with mental health and affected the degree of stress, which provided novel insights into interventions.
Adhesion to Tuberculosis Preventive Measures by Health Workers in Diagnostic and Treatment Centers in Douala - Cameroon 
Authors: Djuikoue Cecile , Ndjock Alex Ndjip , Wandji Irene , Tchoukouha Willy Yamdeu , Kouteu Frank Nounkeu , Ketchaji Alice , Agbor Ashu , Tambo Ernest , Pokam Benjamin Thumamo
Published: January 2021

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major health problem in Africa and more particularly in sub-Saharan countries such as Cameroon due to its impact on mortality, morbidity and socio-economic repercussions on the population in general, in this case in big cities like Douala. In 2018, the Littoral region in Cameroon recorded more than 5,000 cases of tuberculosis representing a quarter of the total number of TB patients in in the country. The application of measures to control TB infection and the regular surveillance of tuberculosis disease among health workers and at all levels of the health system constitute a public health priority, not only for health and administrative workers, but also for all users. This study assessed the adherence to preventive measures against TB by health workers of the diagnostic and treatment centers in the city of Douala. Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out among health workers from 12 TB screening and treatment centers in the city of Douala. It took place from July 20, 2020 to August 15, 2020. The data were collected using an observation grid designed on the basis of the technical guidelines for health professionals 4th Edition set up by the WHO and contextualized in Cameroon through the technical guidelines for health professionals in Cameroon 2020. The data collected was analyzed using the statistical software Epi Info 7.2.3.1. Results: The implementation of preventive measures (administrative, environmental and individual) against TB by health workers in the diagnostic and treatment centers in the city of Douala was insufficient with the respective adherence average of 79.16% for management measures, 71.80% for environmental measures and 54.76% for individual protection measures. Conclusion: The poor implementation of infection control measures in the TB diagnostic and treatment centers in the city of Douala can promote exposure of health workers to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. An institutional effort required to resolve this issue and strengthen TB prevention activities.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram Based on CA125 Levels for Predicting Progression-free Survival in Patients with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: He Minjun , Peng Hongyu , Liu Zhifeng , Gao Quanyang
Published: January 2021

Background Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death in patients with gynecological cancers, and it has very low survival. CA125 have been shown to be an important prognostic factor for PFS, Therefore, we aimed to develop and validate a nomogram incorporating CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy for predicting progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with ovarian cancer.Methods The nomogram was developed in a primary cohort of 491 patients with stage II-IV ovarian cancer. Performance was assessed by concordance index (C-index), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis, and compared with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system. The predictive value of CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy was evaluated. The model was subjected to bootstrap internal validation. An independent cohort of 81 patients was used for external validation.Results CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy were significantly associated with PFS. Five variables, including CA125 levels were selected to develop the nomogram. The nomogram demonstrated adequate discrimination, with a bootstrap-corrected C-index of 0.708, and good calibration. External validation of the nomogram achieved excellent discrimination (C-index, 0.724) and calibration. CA125 levels after three adjuvant chemotherapy cycles showed a marginally significant increment of discrimination to the nomogram in the primary cohort (C-index, 0.708 vs 0.668; P = 0.097). Superior discriminative ability was observed in the nomogram when compared with the FIGO staging system only in the primary cohort (C-index, 0.708 vs 0.578; P < 0.001). Decision curve analysis demonstrated that our nomogram was clinically useful.Conclusion We developed and validated a nomogram incorporating CA125 levels after three chemotherapy cycles for PFS prediction in ovarian cancer. This nomogram showed well-predictive performance and easy clinical application.
Bone Metastases of Endometrial Carcinoma Treated by Surgery: Report on 13 Patients and Review of The Medical Literature
Authors: Wang Jingyuan , Dai Yibo , Ji Tao , Guo Wei , Wang Zhiqi , Wang Jianliu
Published: January 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the clinicopathological features of EC patients with bone metastases treated with surgery and to systematically review the literature. Methods: We performed a retrospective study to include patients with bone metastases of EC at Peking University People’s Hospital during 2000 to 2019. Clinicopathological features and survival outcomes were collected.Results: Among the 1662 patients with EC, 14 (0.84%) were identified with bone metastases, and all were treated surgically. 13 cases were analyzed. Four had bone metastases when diagnosed; and the remaining 9 cases had bone metastases when first relapsed with the median time to recurrence of 13 months (range, 5-144). The median age of the 13 patients was 58 years old (range, 45-76). Twelve were endometrioid carcinoma. The majority sites of bone metastases were pelvis, followed by the spine. The median overall survival (OS) was 57 months. We further combined the 13 patients with another 24 cases identified from literature research. There was no significant difference in clinicopathological characteristics between the patients with bone metastases when diagnosed and when first relapsed. The median OS was numerically longer for patients with bone metastases when diagnosed than when first relapsed (57 vs. 36 months, P=0.084). The median OS was significantly longer in patients with endometrioid carcinoma than in those with type II carcinoma (57 vs. 4 months, P=0.003). Conclusions: Patients with bone metastases of EC might benefit from comprehensive treatment based on surgery, as symptoms can be palliated and survival can be extended probably.
Scalable Analysis of COVID-19 Spatiotemporal Patterns Based on Data Mining Tools: Using 3D Bins to Predict Short-time Focus Locations
Authors: Cos Olga de , Castillo Valentín , Cantarero David
Published: January 2021

Background: An interesting research line is related to COVID-19 behavior from a territorial and temporal perspective. Hence, the use of 3D space-time bins is a useful tool to contrast limitations of visual assessment and reveal the detailed areas most at risk for the pandemic or even more the emergency hotspots can be useful to not only study but also predict spatial pattern of the COVID-19 at an intra-urban scale.Methods: We developed the SITAR Fast Action Territorial Information System using ESRI Technologies Ecosystem. More specifically, we used ArcGIS Pro (desktop) and ArcGIS Online (cloud). Therefore, our general research methodology is based on Geographic Information Technologies from a multiscalar perspective and based on detailed entities (geocoded COVID-19 cases for the region of Cantabria, Spain). The main research method is related to data mining tools using 3D bins and analysing emerging hotspots.Results: The spatial autocorrelation analysis of the COVID-19 reveals that the distribution of the cases is not random. Otherwise, the Moran´s Index confirms that the spatial pattern of COVID-19 cases is statistically significative, and it presents a clustered distribution. And in the cases of elderly homes, COVID-19 outbreaks and spatial focus are linked while in the rest of the cases there is not this spatial association. The analysis of 3D bins and emerging hotspots is revealing from the point of view of geoprevention in that it significantly limits the territory on which it would be important to focus the analysis. In fact, of the 1,414 starting cubes, focusing on the 602 remaining cubes (with statistical significance), all correspond to a hotspot pattern.Conclusions: Our results evidence the existence of significant space-temporal trends that it can serve as support of emerging hotspots of COVID-19 that it can be used as a prelude to what will happen in the next future. To our knowledge, this is the first study for Spain that demonstrates the interest of the 3D space-time cubes method to engage the prevention measures proposed by policy makers with a scalar perspective. 3D bins can therefore be used as a proxy to assess the spatiotemporal patterns in public health studies.
577-nm High-Power Optically Pumped Semiconductor Laser is Safe and Effective in The Treatment of Inflammatory Acne: A Prospective, Single-Center, Split-Face Comparative Study
Authors: EEM Mohamed , Tawfik KM , IB Elsayed , Boelke Edwin , PA Gerber
Published: January 2021

Objective: This study aimed to appraise the efficacy of a 577 nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser (HOPSL) for the treatment of inflammatory acne.Methods: The study included 50 patients with acne vulgaris (inflammatory type), 14 men, and 36 females; patient ages ranged from 16 to 35 years. The left side of the face was treated with a single pass of a 577 nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser every 2 weeks for 3 sessions. Patients were examined prior to the first session and 4 weeks after the last session (Investigator's Global Assessment of acne severity, IGA; single lesion count).Results: At baseline, no statistically significant difference in the severity of inflammatory acne lesions between both sides was observed. One month after the final session, a significant improvement (IGA reduction of >50 percent) of the over-all severity of the acne was observed in 49 patients (98 percent) on laser-treated side versus 41 (82 percent) the control side of the face (P < .05). Accordingly, we found a significant reduction in the mean percentage of inflammatory papules, pustules, and nodules (79.33 vs 56.92, 78.04 vs 43.33, 64.85 vs 21.93 percent, respectively) (P<0.05). Side effects in the form of erythema and irritation during sessions were transient and tolerated by the patients.Conclusion: The 577 nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser is effective and safe for the treatment of inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules, and nodules) in acne patients.Running title: 577 nm high-power optically pumped semiconductor laser (HOPSL) for the treatment of inflammatory acne
A Randomized Study on The Prophylactic Use of Acetaminophen to Prevent Fever After The Removal of Drainage Tubes in Lumbar Surgery
Authors: Ye Kaifeng , Li Yan , Xing Yong , Liu Kaixi , Zhu Tengjiao , He Baichuan , Zhou Fang , Tian Yun , Zhang Yanping
Published: January 2021

Study design: a prospectively random clinical trialObjective: To explore the efficacy of prophylactic use of Acetaminophen in preventing fever after the removal of tube drainage in lumbar surgery.Summary and background data: Many inpatients encountered a fever in the first 24 hours when the drainage tube was removed. When fevers appeared, it was costly to exclude the possibility of deep infection and always failed to identify the etiology. Just like the postoperative fever, we suggested that the fever was caused by the normal inflammatory response, and tried to figure out whether the prophylactic use of Acetaminophen could lower the possibility of fever or not.Methods: 183 consecutive patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery were prospectively randomized into 2 groups. 91 patients were allocated into the study group, they would receive a pill of Acetaminophen (Tylenol, 650mg) before the removal of lumbar tube drainage, and another one at 8p.m. The rest 92 patients were divided into the control group, they were treated in routine treatment without Acetaminophen. In the first 24 hours, a temperature higher than 37.7°C was defined as fever. The 2 groups were then compared for differences in age, gender, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), surgical segments, surgical time, blood loss, blood transfusion, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, duration of the tube drainage, total volume of the drainage collection, variation of the levels of WBC, CRP, hospital stay since the removal of drainage to discharge and the rate of fever.Results: There were no differences in all the basic information of 2 groups, but the fever rate of the 2 groups had significant differences (P=0.006), the fever rate of the study group (14/91, 15.38%) was significant lower than the control group (30/92, 32.61%).Conclusion: Fever after the removal of tube drainage was caused by normal inflammation response, and a small dose of acetaminophen could significantly lower the possibility fever. Trail registration: This trail was registered in the ClinicalTrial.gov PRS on July 13, 2019, and the ID was NCT04042948.
Rainfall Driven and Wild-bird Mediated Avian Influenza Virus Outbreaks in Australian Poultry
Authors: Ferenczi Marta , Beckmann Christa , Klaassen Marcel
Published: January 2021

Globally, outbreaks of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV) in poultry continue to burden economies and endanger human, livestock and wildlife health. Wild waterbirds are often identified as possible sources for poultry infection. Therefore, it is important to understand the ecological and environmental factors that directly influence infection dynamics in wild birds, as these factors may thereby indirectly affect outbreaks in poultry. In Australia, where large parts of the country experience erratic rainfall patterns, intense rainfalls lead to wild waterfowl breeding events at temporary wetlands and increased proportions of immunologically naïve juvenile birds. It is hypothesized that after breeding, when the temporary wetlands dry, increasing densities of immunologically naïve waterbirds returning to permanent water bodies might strongly contribute to AIV prevalence in wild waterfowl in Australia. Since rainfall has been proven to be an important environmental driver in AIV dynamics in wild waterbirds in southeast Australia and wild waterbirds are identified globally to have a role in virus spillover into poultry, we hypothesise that rainfall events have an indirect effect on AIV outbreaks in poultry in southeast Australia. In this study we investigated this hypothesis by examining the timing of AIV outbreaks in poultry in and near the Murray-Darling basin in relation to temporal patterns in regional rainfall since 1970. Our findings support our hypothesis and suggest that the risk of AIV outbreaks in poultry increases after a period of high rainfall, with peak AIV risk two years after the onset of the high-rainfall period. This is presumably triggered by increased rates of waterbird breeding and consequent higher proportions of immunologically naïve juvenile waterbirds entering the population directly after major rainfall events, which subsequently aggregate near permanent water bodies when the landscape dries out.
Drivers of Soil Bacterial Diversity in Sandy Grasslands in China
Authors: Pan Chengchen , Feng Qi , Li Yulin , Yu Xiaoya , Ren Shilong
Published: January 2021

Bacteria constitute great abundances and groups on Earth and control many important processes in terrestrial ecosystems. However, our understanding of the interactions between soil bacteria and environmental factors remains limited, especially in sensitive and fragile ecosystems. In this study, geographic patterns of bacterial diversity across the four sandy grasslands along a 1600 km north-south transect in northern China were characterized by high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Then, we analyzed the driving factors behind the patterns in bacterial diversity. The results showed that of the 21 phyla detected, the most abundant were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria and Firmicutes (average relative abundance > 5%). Soil bacterial α diversity, calculated as the bacterial phylotype richness and Faith’s phylogenetic diversity, was highest in the Otingdag Sandy Land and lowest in the Mu Us Sandy Land. Soil EC was the most influential factor driving bacterial α diversity. The bacterial communities differed significantly among the four sandy grasslands, and the bacterial community structure was significantly affected by environmental factors and geographic distance. Of the environmental variables examined, climatic factors (MAT and MAP) and edaphic properties (pH and EC) explained the highest proportion of the variation in bacterial community structure. Biotic factors such as plant species richness and aboveground biomass exhibited weak but significant associations with bacterial α diversity. Our findings revealed the important role of climate and salinity factors in controlling bacterial diversity; understanding these roles is critical for predicting the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable management strategies for ecosystem services in these sandy lands.
Hip Arthroscopy has Good Clinical Outcomes in the Treatment of Osteoid Osteoma of the Acetabulum
Authors: Gao Guanying , Wu Ruiqi , Liu Rongge , Ao Yingfang , Wang Jianquan , Xu Yan
Published: January 2021

Background: Osteoid osteoma (OO) of the acetabulum is a relatively rare disease. The clinical outcomes of hip arthroscopy for treatment of OO of the acetabulum is still uncertain.Methods: We evaluated consecutive patients who were diagnosed with OO of the acetabulum and underwent hip arthroscopy for treatment in our hospital between January 2013 and March 2020. All patients underwent preoperative physical examination. Preoperative supine anteroposterior hip radiographs, cross-table lateral radiographs, CT images, and MR images were obtained for all patients. Alpha angle and lateral center-edge angle were measured before surgery. Supine anteroposterior hip radiographs and CT images were obtained for all patients postoperatively. Preoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including visual analog scale (VAS), the International Hip Outcome Tool-12 (iHOT-12) and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), and PROs at final follow-up were evaluated.Results: A total of 6 patients (mean age, 18.7 years; age range, 6-31 years; 5 males and 1 females) were included in this study. The average follow-up period after surgery was 28.3 months (range, 6–90 months). Before surgery, mean mHHS was 45.2±10.5 (range, 33-56), mean iHOT-12 was 33.3±14.5 (range, 13-49), and mean VAS was 8.2±1.0 (range, 7-9). At one month after surgery, mean mHHS was 78.7±1.9 (range, 77-81), iHOT-12 was 71.0±4.5 (range, 68-80), and mean VAS was 0. At the final post-operative follow-up, mean mHHS was 89.2±2.1 (range, 86-91), iHOT-12 was 93.5±5.0 (range, 88-98), and mean VAS was 0. All results, except VAS between one month after surgery and at final follow-up, demonstrated statistically significant improvement (P < 0.05). One patient underwent revision surgery.Conclusion: Hip arthroscopy has good clinical outcomes in the treatment of OO of the acetabulum.
Benefit Clarification of Longxuetongluo Capsule Towards Ischemic Stroke Rats by ischemic stroke rats by LC MS/MS Based Metabolomics
Authors: Jing Sun , Chen Xianyang , Fan Bei , Pan Bo , Liu Jiani , Chen Xiaonan , Zheng Jiao , Tu Pengfei , Han Jiarui , Song Yuelin , Jun Li
Published: January 2021

Background:Longxuetongluo Capsule (LTC) that was prepared from the phenolic compound cluster of Chinese dragon’s blood, has been clinically utilized for years towards ischemic stroke. However, its therapeutic mechanism s remain unclear. The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect and to explore the underlying mechanisms of LTC on ischemic stroke rats characterized by cerebral ischemia 6 re perfusion injury. Method:Ischemic stroke rats were simulated by middle cerebral artery occlusion ( and validated by the assays in terms of histological and behavioral assessments . The plasma metabolome comparisons amongst different groups were conducted by UHPLC Q Executive MS in combination with subsequent multivariate statistical analysis , aiming to finding the molecules in respond to the surgery or LTC treatment . Result:Intragastric administration of LTC significantly decreased not only the neurobehavioral abnormality scores but also the cerebral infarct area of MCAO rats. A total of 21 potential biomarkers related to ischemic stroke were observed, and 18 biomarkers (such as LysoPC, PE, SM, N1-Methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide, PE (24:1/18:3 etc.) were selected after Youden index >0.7. The results showed that LTC was beneficial to ischemic stroke rats induced by ischemia reperfusion injury by Glycerophospholipid metabolism , Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor biosynthesis , Nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism and Sphingolipid metabolism Conclusion:The present study could provide evidence that metabolomics, as system systematicatic approach, revealed its capacity to evaluate tapproach, revealed its capacity to evaluate the holistic efficacy of TCM, he holistic efficacy of TCM, and investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the clinical treatment of LTC on and investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the clinical treatment of LTC on ischemic stroke. ischemic stroke.
An Outbreak of RSV Infections in the Neonatology Clinic of the University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Sofia, 2019 – a Case Series
Authors: Vakrilova Liliya , Nikolova Stanislava Hitrova – , Radulova Petya , Slancheva Boryana
Published: January 2021

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the predominant cause of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in infancy. Preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are at the highest risk of severe RSV-LRTI. We report retrospectively a nosocomial outbreak of RSV-infections in the Neonatology of the University O&G hospital, Sofia. Methods: Two groups of infants without contact between them were diagnosed with RSV-infection: 14 infants who were treated in the Department for healthy newborns, and 7 preterm infants, treated in the NICU. The detection of RSV was performed using Real-Time PCR in nasal/throat swabs.Results: Respiratory symptoms occurred 2-5 days after discharge in 14 of 148 healthy term infants born from 5 to 18 February 2019; 12 babies were re-hospitalized with LRTI and recovered in a few days. In 6 infants the RSV-PCR was positive, in the others, RSV etiology was suggested due to similar symptoms and contact between them.The first NICU-patient with RSV-LRTI was a 26 gestational weeks (GW) twin with BPD. From 19 February to 15 March 26 babies, 26-34 GW at birth were tested for RSV (33 nasal/throat swabs). They received a first or subsequent palivisumab-injection. We identified 11 positive samples in 7 of the babies. Six of them were with symptoms of LRTI, two needed mechanical ventilation. In 4 babies despite the recovery, the second RSV-PCR remained positive. After stabilization 6 babies were discharged home, one was transferred to the Paediatric department for further treatment of BPD. Conclusions: The reported outbreak of RSV-infections in neonates was the most serious since the RSV-PCR diagnostic in Bulgaria was introduced. The course of RSV-LRTI was severe in extremely preterm newborns with underlying BPD. So routine in-hospital RSV-prophylaxis with palivizumab should be considered for infants at the highest risk.